Creative Cities: Exploring Brighton’s Gaming Scene
By MetStudios
06 November 2024
Brighton is famous for its vibrant seafront, quirky lanes, and energetic arts scene, but it’s also a paradise for gamers and aspiring developers. If you’re a student passionate about games, animation, or digital creativity, you’ll find plenty to love (and learn!) in this seaside city.
Brighton’s Game Studios
Brighton is brimming with game studios that are making their mark. Studio Gobo and TT Games Studio are known for major titles and high-profile collaborations. Hangar 13 Games brings cinematic storytelling to life, while Electric Square specialises in character action, and Brightrock Games focus on genre-twisting simulation games. Hi-Rez Studios, renowned for competitive online games, adds a global touch to the local scene.
For students, these studios offer insight into the industry and the chance to get hands-on experience through internships and collaborations. The creative culture here is rich, giving you a first-hand look at how games come together.
Where to play
Brighton has an impressive selection of gaming bars and cafés perfect for students. The World’s End is an arcade-themed favourite, offering craft beers, VR experiences, and even remote-control car racing, all conveniently close to the London Road campus.
For gaming by the sea, Loading Bar serves up cocktails alongside consoles like the N64 and PS4, plus Tekken and Street Fighter arcade classics. Meanwhile, 1UP Café on Western Road is a daytime hotspot, hosting Smash Bros. tournaments, Dungeons & Dragons nights, and a packed calendar of community events like Pokémon card exchanges and quiz nights.
For tabletop enthusiasts, Dice Saloon is a must-visit. It’s a haven where you can book a table, play your favourite games, or explore new ones from their extensive collection. The venue also features a packed schedule of events and tournaments, along with a retail shop full of gaming essentials.
Need to upgrade your gaming setup? Warhammer has you covered for miniatures and painting accessories, while GAME stocks the latest video games and consoles. For a dose of nostalgia, check out the Video Games Retro Market at Brighton Racecourse, where you can browse vintage games and consoles throughout the year.
Unmissable Events and Festivals
Brighton’s creative calendar is full of exciting events. Brighton Anime and Gaming Con at the Old Ship Hotel takes place twice a year, offering a brilliant space for anime lovers, comic enthusiasts, and gamers to connect, shop, and take part in a wide range of activities. During the summer, Brighton Comic Con at the AMEX Stadium is another highlight, drawing fans from all over.
The Strange Games Festival, held every August bank holiday, provides a unique camping experience where over 500 gamers come together to enjoy board games, RPGs, and social deduction games at a Sussex campsite. Meanwhile, animation enthusiasts will love the Brighton International Animation Festival each April. This three-day, not-for-profit event is organised by animators and showcases a global view of animation, making it an accessible and enriching experience for anyone interested in the medium.
For future game developers, Develop is the ultimate event. This annual three-day conference gathers industry professionals to share knowledge, showcase new tech, and network, providing an excellent opportunity to learn from the best in the field.
Build a future in Brighton
Brighton isn’t just a place to study; it’s a dynamic city brimming with opportunities for gamers and creatives. Whether you’re interested in playing, designing, or learning about the latest in digital media, there’s something for every aspiring game artist, developer, or designer.
MetStudios offers BA (Hons) degrees in Games Art and Technology, Games Design and Development, and Animation. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, experienced lecturers, and industry connections. Discover MetStudios Brighton for yourself at an upcoming Open Day or find out more about our courses here.
