Creative Cities: Exploring Manchester’s Gaming Scene

Manchester is more than a powerhouse for music, film, and football. Over the past few years, it’s become a city on the cutting edge of the gaming scene, making it the ideal location for students eager to break into the industry, or to simply enjoy what metropolitan Manchester has to offer.

The indie game development scene

Manchester is home to an exciting independent gaming community, where small studios are making their mark with innovative titles. White Paper Games, known for its thought-provoking narrative games like The Occupation, leads the way, alongside studios like Cloud Imperium Games, the developers behind the ambitious Star Citizen. Acid Nerve, the team responsible for the critically-acclaimed Death’s Door, and VoxelStorm, with their distinct retro-futuristic style, add to the city’s dynamic game development landscape.

For Games, VFX, and Animation students, Manchester’s indie scene provides invaluable opportunities. These studios often seek out fresh talent, offering internships and entry-level roles that allow students to gain hands-on experience in real-world projects. The city’s collaborative nature makes it an ideal place to begin your journey into the industry.

Gaming bars and social spaces

Manchester is a city where gaming culture thrives. NQ64 Arcade Bar is a must-visit for retro gaming fans, offering a nostalgic blend of classic arcade machines and neon-lit vibes. If you’re looking for something more interactive, Immersive Gamebox provides next-gen group gaming experiences where players collaborate in ultra-modern, immersive spaces.

For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Pixel Bar or 1Up, where you can enjoy games old and new in a social setting with friends. These bars host regular themed events, from Mario Kart tournaments to cosplay nights, making them great places to connect with fellow gamers and unwind after a day of studying.

Conventions and gaming events

Manchester plays host to several key gaming and pop culture events throughout the year. AireCon and Comic Con Manchester bring together thousands of gaming and comic book fans, with the perfect blend of board games, the latest video game tech, and cosplay.

Manchester Anime & Gaming Con is another highlight, where you can dive into both gaming and anime cultures in a fun, welcoming, and inclusive environment. Additionally, Manchester Animation Festival is an annual event showcasing the intersection of animation and gaming, providing insight into how storytelling and design are integral to both mediums.

For students, these events are more than a fun day out – they’re a vital opportunity to network with industry pros, gain inspiration, and showcase your work. Whatever discipline you’re studying, these Manchester events provide a window into the wider games industry.

Discovering Power UP at the Science and Industry Museum

A visit to Power UP at Manchester’s Science and Industry Museum is a must for anyone with a love of gaming and digital graphics. This permanent exhibition features over 160 playable consoles, taking you on an interactive journey through the history of gaming, from the early days of the Atari to the latest in VR technology. It’s an inspiring place for students to reflect on how far the industry has come, and to draw ideas for future projects.

Build a future in Manchester

Manchester is a brilliant place to build your career in the games industry. With Manchester’s supportive community and regular events designed to foster innovation and connect talent across the creative industries, you’ll find a vibrant and diverse scene ready to welcome you with open arms.

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 Manchester for yourself at an upcoming Open Day or find out more about our courses here.