Having been instantly recognised as a Silver Service Partner in 2024, when the accreditation was introduced, Tanglewood Games are on the cutting edge of their field, working hard to gain rapid promotion to Gold; they have become the fourth partner in the UK to achieve this, and 23rd internationally. Tanglewood have also recently been shortlisted for the Ukie Video Games Rising Star Award, securing their place among the UK’s gaming powerhouses.
Speaking to Gary Philipson on BBC Tees, founders Terrence Burns and Chris Wood spoke about the wide-ranging applications of Unreal Engine, whether it be for typical game development, for VR, or in TV and film, notably in recent Star Wars projects. They are determined that the UK needs to do more in the race to be the best at producing games - and that we are in a unique position to do so, as long as we keep British talent at home.
The recognition of a Hartlepool company, founded and headed by locals, cements the region's place as an up-and-coming cultural hub. Tanglewood confirmed they try to scout home-grown talent and bring them to Teesside, contributing to the local economy in the process. Tanglewood are not alone in trying to propel Hartlepool and Middlesborough into the £7 billion gaming industry; they are in the company of Teesside University, who have dedicated game development degrees, and the Northern School of Art, who have specialised courses for future game designers and artists.