This contest invites students from universities across the Yorkshire region and beyond to submit work to be judged by game industry professionals and companies.
Students from Sheffield Hallam won awards in four categories. The Game Audio Category (judged by Pitstop Productions), Game Technology Category (judged by Red Kite Games), Games Art and Animation Category (judged by Rebellion North) and Best Team Category (Judged by Rockstar).
Thomas Lawrence, a student on Game Design & Development, won the Game Audio category for his work on Amber’s Tale.
Thomas said: "Attending Games Republic 2023 and winning the Pitstop Productions award for Game Audio was an incredible experience! It's truly validating to receive recognition for the hard work and dedication I put into creating Amber's Tale and the opportunity to engage with the judges and discuss my journey and collaboration with creators worldwide was inspiring. This win has not only boosted my confidence but also expanded my network, paving the way for future events and connections within the industry.
“The support and motivation I received from both the faculty and my peers were instrumental in shaping this project into what it is today. By tailoring my module submissions to contribute to the final outcome, I acquired the necessary skills and knowledge to bring this game to life and I'm excited to carry this momentum forward and explore new opportunities and hopefully develop Amber's Tale further into a published title."
Students on the Computer Science for Games course came second in the Red Kite Games Award for Game Technology, for their work on the game Candy Kingdom Tower Defence.
Judge Simon Iwaniszak from Red Kite Games, said: “The Sheffield Hallam University entrants highlighted what we look for in a technical award by having programmed and designed the game to be playable on a console, in this case, PlayStation 4.”
The Game Republic Student Showcase also saw final-year entrants from Staffordshire University, University Centre Leeds, Leeds City College, University of Huddersfield, University of Hull, York St John University, the University of Bradford and the University of Sunderland competing in seven categories.
The Student Showcase has significant impact on employability with 81 per cent of winners going on to work within companies in Yorkshire and the north and 90 per cent gaining employment in the games industry.
Dr Paul Parry, Subject Group Leader, Games and Artificial Intelligence said: “Our students have, once again, triumphed in another high-profile competition, demonstrating their remarkable game development skills. They have gone above and beyond any course or assessment requirements and have developed some great game products this year. It’s a privilege to work with such talented individuals."
