By G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff
G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation
The video games industry in Northern Ireland (NI) is experiencing remarkable growth, driven by both established companies and ambitious start-ups. Among these is Amber Isle, a recently launched game developed by Jordan Bradley and her company, Ambertail Games. With a childhood passion for dinosaurs and an idea sparked during the lockdown, Bradley has created a game that is not only captivating but also a testament to the flourishing gaming scene in NI. This growth reflects a broader trend in the UK, where the video games industry contributes £6 billion annually to the economy and employs approximately 76,000 people.
Jordan Bradley's journey began in 2020 when she co-founded Ambertail Games with Noel Watters. Like many during the pandemic, Bradley found herself in need of a creative outlet while confined at home. She conceptualized Amber Isle, a shop-keeping and life simulation game where players take on the role of dinosaurs living in a world filled with friendly prehistoric creatures. The game allows players to gather resources, craft items, and manage a shop—blending creativity with nostalgic childhood fascination.
In just a few years, the company has grown from a bedroom start-up to a thriving business. Amber Isle has created 10 full-time jobs and 30 contracted positions, backed by approximately £1.2 million in investment. Team17, one of the UK’s leading video game companies, has also partnered with Bradley’s venture, signaling its potential for success in the competitive gaming market.
While Bradley’s story is an inspiring example of individual initiative, it is part of a larger picture in Northern Ireland, where the gaming industry is rapidly expanding. According to NI Screen, there are currently about 40 gaming companies active in the region. These companies are offering opportunities for young professionals to break into an industry that was once seen as niche but is now becoming a mainstream career path. Kerry Michelle O’Brien from NI Screen emphasizes that gaming is not only a viable career option but also a growing one. Initiatives like Play My Demo, a bi-monthly event showcasing local gaming talent, are designed to help developers gain visibility and foster industry connections. O’Brien is optimistic about the future, noting that the region's storytelling abilities and technical talent are key assets that should be nurtured and retained locally.
The growth of Northern Ireland’s gaming industry is supported by educational institutions like Belfast Metropolitan College (Belfast Met), which offers gaming courses, including foundation degrees in game art and design, and Esports. Michael Smyth, a gaming tutor at Belfast Met, highlights the increasing opportunities for students to gain practical experience in the field. "All of the students have secured a placement within the island of Ireland, working with games companies and production companies," Smyth says. Many students have gone on to work in various roles within the industry, from game design to freelance work, even while still pursuing their qualifications.
Esports, a booming global industry, has also found a growing foothold in Northern Ireland. The International Olympic Committee's recognition of Esports further solidifies its legitimacy as a competitive field. Belfast Met student Adam Dzida, for example, has ambitions to become a professional Esports gamer. Dzida sees the potential in Esports not just for competition but also as a pathway to streaming and content creation, which can generate significant income for players. With the recent Esports World Cup held in Saudi Arabia drawing international attention, it's clear that the industry is on an upward trajectory.
Northern Ireland’s video games industry is thriving, with start-ups like Ambertail Games leading the charge. The region’s growing ecosystem of developers, educational institutions, and support networks has created fertile ground for both innovation and career opportunities. As more young talent emerges and industry giants like Team17 take notice, Northern Ireland is poised to become a significant player in the global video games market.
