Shuttershade Studios, a promising VR development company based in Huddersfield, has achieved significant recognition by winning a national competition. This accomplishment at the Pocket Gamer Connects conference underscores the firm’s innovative contributions to the gaming industry.
By showcasing their inventive game, ‘Hyper Party Ware VR’, Shuttershade captivated judges and audiences alike, marking them as leaders in community-focused virtual gaming. Their success highlights the potential and creativity thriving within the UK’s regional tech sectors.
A Triumph in Innovation
In a remarkable achievement that underscores its innovative prowess, Shuttershade Studios, a burgeoning game development firm from Huddersfield, has clinched the top prize at the prestigious Pocket Gamer Connects conference in London. This national accolade highlights the team’s dedication to transforming the virtual reality gaming landscape. Comprising graduates from the University of Huddersfield, the studio is rapidly gaining recognition within the industry.
The competition involved presenting their game concept to a discerning panel of judges in a unique ‘speed-dating’ format, with Shuttershade’s ‘Hyper Party Ware VR’ captivating the judges with its unique approach and execution. The victory is a testament to the team’s creativity in delivering engaging VR experiences.
Game Design with a Difference
The winning game, ‘Hyper Party Ware VR’, is a dynamic collection of virtual reality mini-games that includes activities such as basketball, darts, and ping-pong. Designed to foster a sense of community, it encourages interaction among players, making it both inclusive and engaging.
Marcus Nichols, co-director of Shuttershade Studios, articulates that the game’s design allows both active participants and spectators to be part of the action. “Everyone can become involved whether they have the headset on or not,” he explains, emphasizing the interactive nature of their gaming solution.
Crafting the Winning Pitch
The journey to success was not just about the game itself, but also the presentation. Shuttershade’s directors, including Nichols, Parampal Singh, and Chris Vickery, meticulously crafted their pitch to showcase the game’s unique appeal.
Participating in a bustling, competitive environment with other top contenders, their succinct and compelling presentation resonated well with the judging panel, securing them a marketing package valued at an impressive US$3,000. The judges acknowledged the team’s potential to innovate within the VR space.
This triumph represents yet another milestone for Shuttershade Studios, as they had previously garnered recognition from the Transfuzer talent development programme, winning a substantial £25,000 just last year.
Building on Momentum
With this latest win, Shuttershade is excitedly looking ahead, focusing on refining ‘Hyper Party Ware VR’. Their aim is to enhance the game’s features and capabilities, ensuring it continues to engage and captivate users across various platforms.
The team is actively planning to showcase their game throughout the country, building on their momentum and welcoming feedback from diverse gaming communities.
Looking to the Future
Shuttershade Studios is poised for significant growth as they anticipate capturing a larger share of the VR market. Their forward-thinking approach and commitment to innovation are key drivers in their expansion plans.
As they continue to evolve, the studio aims to foster collaborative opportunities that will propel them to new heights within the industry.
Industry Recognition
The recognition from winning at an international venue like Pocket Gamer Connects London opens up numerous opportunities for Shuttershade Studios. This esteemed award elevates their status within the global gaming industry.
The XR Indie Pitch trophy, alongside the marketing benefits, provides Shuttershade with a platform to further enhance their visibility and attract potential investors.
The company’s success story is likely to inspire other start-ups and emerging VR developers to pursue excellence and creativity in game design.
Shuttershade Studios’ remarkable achievement at the Pocket Gamer Connects conference is a stepping stone towards their envisioned future in VR gaming. Capitalising on their success, they are set to expand their influence and innovation in the virtual reality field, making them a firm to watch in the coming years.
