Last Arrow, a new game development studio, has launched in Gateshead

A new game development outfit named Last Arrow has been established in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear. The studio is headed by veterans from renowned companies such as Sumo Digital, CCP, and Electronic Arts.

The executive team includes Ron Ashtiani as CEO, Owen O’Brien as studio director, Andrew Willans taking on the role of design director, and Chris McClure in the position of technical lead.

With almost 30 years in the entertainment sector, Ashtiani is the founder of Atomhawk, a visual design studio. Most recently, he was a non-executive director at Steamforged Games.

Owen O'Brien brings similar decades-long experience in both publishing and development. His notable past role was as executive producer for EA Dice's Mirror's Edge.

This venture is supported by Pneuma Games Group, the parent company behind Double Eleven.

The new studio's primary focus is recruiting a core team for the development of original intellectual property. Expertise in Unreal Engine 5 is particularly sought after.

"We are bringing together specialists with deep experience in their respective genres, who are eager to create groundbreaking gameplay, excellent execution, and a compelling player experience," stated Ashtiani.

O'Brien expressed: "The industry is dealing with mounting pressures such as layoffs and a general hesitance toward private investment.

"Nevertheless, with backing from Pneuma Games Group, we're able to establish a new studio and assemble a specialized team, already working on our first original IP."

Additionally, earlier in the year, Pneuma Games Group launched Cast Iron Games in Tileyard North, Wakefield, under the leadership of Arden Aspinall and Jon Seymour.