Radical Forge, a Middlesbrough, UK-based games studio, raised £2.6M ($3.4M) in funding.
The round was led by NPIF II – Mercia Equity Finance, which is managed by Mercia Ventures as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II).
The company intends to use the funds to expand its team with the creation of 15 jobs, take on new and bigger contracts and launch its own game, Southfield, early next year.
“Well, we did it. We are beyond happy to say that we’ve secured funding to help us build Radical Forge into the company we want it to be and bring everyone along with us on the journey.
In Mercia, we found a partner willing to understand not only the nuts and bolts of the company but the human heart that makes it tick. They share our ambitions to be a great development partner whilst creating original games in a culture that puts people first.”
Radical Forge CEO Bruce Slater
Southfield is a farming game set on a fantasy island where players can grow crops, experiment with machinery, and build their homestead.
Key Features:
- Create a playground for your friends
- Combine chaotic crops with unpredictable effects
- Experiment with playful machinery and toys
- Explore the Island in endlessly creative ways
- Track your discoveries in your trusty Almanac
- Help the locals by completing quests
“Radical Forge are a talented team with a vibrant culture that has helped them attract and retain skilled developers.
We believe the current environment holds real opportunities for the business. With many of the big players in the industry downsizing their teams, they have the chance to attract top talent, expand their skills base and win larger and more complex projects.”
Mercia Investment Director Chris McCourt
Radical Forge Origins
Established in 2017 by two Teesside University computer games graduates, Bruce Slater and Freddie Babord, Radical Forge produces its own games and has recently established a publishing division.
Its first launch, the murder mystery puzzle Bright Paw, was published in 2020 and won the title of Best Puzzle Game at the NYX game awards.
The studio, which now employs around 70 people, has worked with some of the top names in the industry and contributed to games including Gang Beasts, Sea of Thieves, Golf With Your Friends, and Zombie Army 4.
