How Serious Gaming and Innovative Gaming Technology converge in the West Midlands
The West Midlands has long been a hub for technological innovation. With its strong industrial heritage and growing reputation as a centre for cutting-edge digital industries, it’s no surprise that pioneering businesses here can flourish. One of the most exciting developments in recent years has been the convergence of gaming technology with other sectors, creating an ecosystem of serious gaming companies tackling important social challenges.
From immersive simulations to AI-powered training tools, gaming technology is being applied in healthcare, education, and public services, driving both investment and societal impact. Companies like Birmingham Open Media, Holosphere and RiVR are key players in this charge, proving that the West Midlands is a place where disruptive minds meet and breakthroughs begin.
The Rise of Serious Gaming in the West Midlands
Gaming technology has traditionally been associated with entertainment, with its original purpose being to transport users to digital realms. Still, the rise of serious gaming is demonstrating its potential to drive positive change in alternative industries. Serious gaming applies the principles of interactive entertainment, such as immersion and gameplay, to non-entertainment sectors, creating tools that enhance learning, decision-making, and problem-solving.
The West Midlands has positioned itself at the forefront of the serious gaming movement, with a growing number of companies using gaming technology to address real-world issues. From training emergency responders to helping individuals with disabilities gain new skills, the applications are vast and impactful. Game Changing Tech Starts Here.
Key Players Driving Innovation
Birmingham Open Media
Birmingham Open Media (BOM) is an inspiring accumulation of technology, art, and social impact. This immersive arts organisation is engaging and empowering communities through innovation with immersive technology and inclusive learning programmes. By innovating with virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), games, and other interactive content, BOM creates award-winning experiences with a strong social purpose. Take a look at some of their highlights:
Beholder
A VR experience that explores autistic perceptions of beauty. Received the Digital Catapult Creative XR prize and the ST+ARTS European Media Prize.
Hidden Kingdoms
An assisted travel app that helps people with anxiety make everyday journeys from A to B. Received the Innovate UK Inclusive Innovation Award and the Creative Industries Fund Award.
Mother Nature
A mobile game that engages global youth in climate justice through spectacular gameplay.
Holosphere
Born in Birmingham, Holosphere is a pioneer of infinite possibilities. Driven by a passionate team of award-winning creative technologists, real-time engineers, 3D artists, and experienced designers, they partner with clients of all sizes and sectors to design and deliver immersive experiences that redefine the future.
After being approached by one of the UK’s largest oil refineries, Holosphere was tasked with creating high-impact training for a high-risk world. Using their life-size VR training suite, Holosphere was able to create life-like refinery environments, allowing thousands of staff and contractors to assess risks and practice their responses to dramatic incidents in real time.
RiVR
RiVR revolutionises training and education through the power of immersive VR experiences. Based in Warwick, RiVR has become globally recognised for its photo-realistic interactive training environments and application of gaming technology to sectors like public services, archaeology, and filming.
From creating life-like simulations of fire investigation scenes to unearthing the intricate architecture of old English castles, RiVR is a shining example of how gaming innovation can be leveraged to enhance public safety and professional training.
Why the West Midlands is an
Innovation Hotspot
The region’s strong digital infrastructure, combined with increasing investment in technology, makes the West Midlands a lucrative home for serious gaming businesses.
The presence of world-class universities, collaborative tech hubs, and government-backed initiatives has helped foster an ecosystem where gaming technology thrives beyond entertainment.
Investors are taking note, with the region attracting funding for startups and established firms that are pushing the boundaries of gaming technology.
The Future of Gaming Technology
in the West Midlands
As gaming technology continues to evolve, its impact on industries such as healthcare, education, and public services will only grow. With companies like BOM, Holosphere, and RiVR leading the way, the West Midlands is set to remain at the cutting edge of this revolution.
For businesses and investors looking for the next big opportunity in technology, the West Midlands offers a dynamic ecosystem where gaming innovation is not just shaping entertainment but is transforming the world around us.
Game-Changing Tech
The West Midlands is a hub of innovation – it’s where technology moves at the speed of ambition.
From cyber security to gaming, being part of the UK’s fastest-growing tech sector has elevated companies like Goldilock and Fastcheck. Never been done is what we do.
Take a look at…
Gaming and VR
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