British studio Radical Forge has raised £2.6 million ($3.4 million) to expand its team and launch a chaotic physics-based farming simulation Southfield.
The liquidity injection is via the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II – Mercia Equity Finance, which primarily makes investments across Yorkshire and is managed by Mercia Ventures as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II.
The news comes about six months after Radical Forge fired a “handful” of workers whose roles or skills were considered surplus to requirements. Now, the company is looking to make about 15 new hires so it can take on new, larger contracts Southfield to the market.
“Well, we did it. We're more than happy to say that we've secured the funding to help us transform Radical Forge into the company we want it to be and bring everyone along for the ride,” said studio CEO Bruce Slater in a press release.
“In Mercia we have found a partner willing to understand not only the practical aspects of the business, but also the human heart that makes it work. They share our ambitions to be a great development partner while creating original games in a culture that puts people first.” .”
Mercia investment director Chris McCourt said providing funding to Radical Forge will provide a further boost to Middlesbrough's thriving gaming industry.
“Radical Forge is a talented team with a vibrant culture that has helped them attract and retain qualified developers,” he added. “We believe the current environment offers real opportunities for business. Many of the large industry players who scale their teams have the opportunity to attract top talent, expand their skill base and win larger, more complex projects.”