Member Article

New video games company launched in Warwick

Two video games experts have launched a new company in Warwick to design the next generation of digital mobile entertainment.

Alex Zoro and Andy Wafer have set-up Pixel Toys at the University of Warwick Science Park’s Warwick Innovation Centre in Gallows Hill as part of its Ignite programme.

FreeStyleGames co-founder Alex and former Codemasters chief game designer Andy, who have over 25 years’ experience in the industry between them, are focusing on developing and publishing games and digital entertainment for the tablet, mobile and handheld market.

Andy, chief executive officer of Pixel Toys, said they were currently putting the finishing touches to a new game which would be released in the spring.

“We make games for all ages for global markets that people can download from mobile app stores,” he said.

“Pixel Toys is going really well and we have our first game coming out in April for the Nintendo 3DS console which is really exciting.

“We have been working on that since the company started in October in collaboration with another group of people.

“We are concentrating on producing high-end mobile games next because of the huge surge in sales of smartphones and tablets and the different ways in which users want to play their games now.

“Our experience of working on games for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 gives us an added edge in the game development and publishing market and we want to bring that knowledge to other platforms.”

Pixel Toys has recruited senior artist Phil Irving and plans to take on further staff and short-term contractors within the next few months to work on future projects.

Andy added: “The Warwick Innovation Centre is a perfect base to set-up a new company because of its fantastic facilities and this is an area we know well.

“The flexibility of the space means that as we grow, we will be able to move into bigger offices here which is really appealing and the support and guidance we have received has been first-class.”

Karen Aston, centre manager at the Warwick Innovation Centre, said Pixel Toys had the experience and contacts in a competitive industry to flourish.

“Pixel Toys joined the innovation centre as part of our Ignite programme and after starting in Ignite space are about to move into commercial space within the site,” she said.

“Our Ignite programme is ideal for start-ups because we provide the business services and support needed to enable them to concentrate on winning contracts and making their company a success.

“This is a great location with state-of-the-art facilities for new companies to grow at a pace which suits them.

“Alex and Andy have a great deal of talent and knowledge and I am sure this opportunity will see Pixel Toys become a major player in the games industry.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by University of Warwick Science Park .