Attendance at Game Republic New Horizons 2026 increased by 78%, reaching over 461 visitors
Game Republic New Horizons 2026 experienced a significant increase in attendance, growing 78% from the previous year, as visitors increased from 259 to 461.
Hosted at Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium from October 14 to 16, the event attracted more than 100 participants from various regions of the UK, including London and the South East. Additionally, attendees came from a wide range of international locations such as Denmark, Sweden, Finland, China, Italy, Japan, Canada, the United States, France, and the Netherlands.
The number of meetings between developers, publishers, studios, entrepreneurs, and investors through the MeetToMatch platform saw a rise from 100 to 257.
Nintendo representatives from the business development and developer relations sectors conducted a breakfast session for developers and publishers. This session addressed collaboration with the platform holder, development tools, publishing possibilities, and support resources available.
This year, the conference featured 48 speakers, including notable personalities like Ken Kutaragi, former SCEI chairman and group CEO, and Rebecca Lautner, chief business officer at Landfall. Other sessions highlighted industry leaders such as Hakan Abrak, CEO of IO Interactive, along with representatives from Housemarque, Bithell Games, and 4J Studios.
Jamie Sefton, the managing director of Game Republic, noted, "This was one of the biggest and best line-ups of speakers and companies at a games conference held in the UK."
He further expressed satisfaction, observing the gathering of games industry professionals from the UK, Europe, Asia, Canada, and the USA in Middlesbrough to network, engage with presentations, and explore available opportunities.
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Image credit: Game Republic
Ben Houchen, Mayor of Tees Valley, remarked on Teesside’s emerging status as a premier hub for video game development in the UK, highlighting its capacity to attract major industry events featuring prominent global figures.
Houchen stated, "We've got brilliant businesses and talented people right here on our doorstep, and our £160 million Investment Zone for the digital and creative sectors is about giving them the backing and opportunities they need to grow. Getting leading developers, publishers and investors into Teesside puts our region firmly in the shop window."
He emphasized that showcasing the local industry's capabilities can draw new investments and generate more skilled job opportunities for the community.
Game Republic New Horizons is scheduled to return in 2027.
GameIndustry.biz is a media partner of GR New Horizons 2026.