When you think about the biggest names in the video game industry, your mind might automatically jump to the mega, Triple A studios in the USA. After all, the States is home to gaming giants like EA, Activision, and Blizzard.Â
You might be surprised to know that right here in London, a city known for its rich history and cultural diversity, some of the most beloved video games have been brought to life. London is not just a hub for arts, theatre, and finance – it’s also a super vibrant centre for video game development.
London’s video game design industry is now booming, with innovative indie studios and heavyweights producing titles that have captured the attention of gamers all over the world. From the gritty streets of Gotham in the Batman: Arkham series to the playful, groundbreaking LittleBigPlanet, London-based developers have been at the forefront of some pretty decent titles in the last twenty or so years.
Iconic games designed in London
Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic games developed in and around London.
Tomb Raider
Who hasn’t heard of Lara Croft, the fearless adventurer who has become a gaming icon? The Tomb Raider series, which began its journey with Core Design and later evolved under the guidance of Eidos Interactive and Crystal Dynamics, has seen significant contributions from London-based talent. The series’ narratives, puzzles, and visuals have consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in video games.
The Batman: Arkham Series
Rocksteady Studios, nestled in the heart of London, brought us the critically acclaimed Batman: Arkham series. From Arkham Asylum to Arkham Knight, these Triple A games redefined superhero gaming with their intricate storytelling, open world, dynamic combat, and immersive environments. Rocksteady’s innovative approach captured the essence of the Dark Knight but also set new standards for action-adventure games.Arkham Knight famously holds an impressive 9.2/10 rating on video games review site IGN.
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
Ninja Theory, with its significant London presence, brought us the hauntingly beautiful Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice. This game stands out for its deep psychological narrative and stunning visuals. It’s a testament to how London-based developers are not afraid to get stuck in and tackle complex themes, so they can deliver experiences that resonate for years to come. Hellblade is another with a stellar 9/10 review on IGN.
No Man’s Sky
Developed by Hello Games, No Man’s Sky might be headquartered in Guildford, but its impact is felt far and wide, including in London’s vibrant gaming community. This ambitious project offers an entire universe to explore, showcasing the limitless potential of British game design.
LittleBigPlanet
Media Molecule’s “LittleBigPlanet” series is a delightful blend of creativity and innovation. While Media Molecule is based in Guildford, the studio’s strong ties to London have played a significant part in bringing this world to life. The game emphasies user-generated content, basically empowering players to become creators, making it a beloved title for gamers of all ages.
Fable
Lionhead Studios, known for the Fable series, might be another one located on the fringes of London in Guildford, but it has definitely seen games developer contributions from the Capital. The Fable series has a really interesting blend of humor, fantasy, and moral choices, which definitely left a mark on the RPG genre.
The future of games design in London
London’s game design industry is not just about these blockbuster titles – it’s a great place for indie developers and publisher startups brimming with new ideas and unique perspectives. The city’s diverse culture and access to cutting-edge technology has always made for a great environment for innovation in many industries, not least video games design.
For students passionate about game design, London can give you a unique blend of inspiration and opportunity. The city provides endless sources of creativity, and its status as a global tech hub ensures access to the latest tools and trends in game development.
There is no shortage of opportunity if you decide to embark on a games design career in London – according to GameDevMap, there are over 200 games developer studios and publishers in London alone. Take a look at the list and see if you recognise any.
Your gateway to the London gaming industry
So, how can you be part of this exciting world of game design? This is where Big Creative Education (BCE) comes in. We’re a place where your passion for games can turn into a promising career.Â
BCE’s games design course will give you the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the competitive gaming industry.
At BCE, you’ll learn from industry professionals who have been part of the very teams that created some iconic games. The course covers everything from the basics of game design and development to advanced techniques in mechanics, graphics, and more.
You’ll also have the opportunity to work on real-world projects, giving you hands-on experience that will be invaluable as you step into the professional world.Â
But the best part is you’ll be studying in London, right at the heart of the action, surrounded by a community of like-minded creatives and innovators.
Ready to start your games design journey?
London’s game design scene is dynamic, innovative, and ready to welcome the next generation of creators…that’s you!
If you’re a student with a dream of making your mark in the gaming world, there’s no better place to start than Big Creative Education. With us you’ll not only learn the technical skills needed to design and develop games, but have the opportunity to network and collaborate in London’s thriving games design community.
So, if you’re ready to turn your passion for gaming into a career, join Big Creative Education and be part of the future of game design in London. Your adventure in the world of video games starts now!
Find out more about our courses here: https://bigcreative.education/courses/gaming/
