adminGame Republic New Horizons 2026 welcomed 461 attendees to Middlesbrough, an increase of 78% compared with the previous year. The three-day conference brought together games industry professionals from across the UK and overseas for business meetings, talks and networking at Riverside Stadium.
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Game Republic New Horizons 2026 attendance and international reach
Attendance rose from 259 in the previous year to 461 in 2026. More than 100 people travelled from London and the South East, while other attendees came from around the UK. International visitors represented Denmark, Sweden, Finland, China, Italy, Japan, Canada, the United States, France and the Netherlands.
The event took place in Middlesbrough from October 14 to 16. For people considering a future conference visit, the range of attendees indicates that the programme offered opportunities to meet both local industry professionals and international contacts.
Meetings, speakers and developer sessions
Organised meetings arranged through MeetToMatch increased from 100 to 257. Developers, publishers, studios, entrepreneurs and investors used the meetings to connect. Attendees planning similar industry events may find it useful to review potential contacts and meeting goals in advance, so limited conference time can be focused on relevant conversations.
The programme featured 48 speakers. They included Ken Kutaragi, former SCEI chairman and group CEO, and Rebecca Lautner, chief business officer at Landfall. Other sessions involved IO Interactive CEO Hakan Abrak, as well as representatives from Housemarque, Bithell Games and 4J Studios.
Nintendo business development and developer relations representatives also hosted a breakfast session for developers and publishers. The discussion covered working with the platform holder, development tools, publishing opportunities and available support resources. These topics may be especially relevant to studios assessing platform options or seeking information about development and publishing processes.
What organisers and local leaders said
Game Republic managing director Jamie Sefton described the speaker and company line-up as one of the strongest at a UK games conference. He also highlighted the opportunity for professionals from the UK, Europe, Asia, Canada and the United States to meet in Middlesbrough, conduct business and learn about regional talent and opportunities.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said the conference reflected Teesside’s growing profile as a UK video game development centre. He also pointed to the region’s £160 million Investment Zone for digital and creative sectors, describing it as support intended to help local businesses and talent grow. In his view, attracting developers, publishers and investors can raise the region’s profile, encourage investment and support skilled local careers.
When will Game Republic New Horizons return?
Game Republic New Horizons is scheduled to return in 2027. The 2026 figures offer a useful snapshot of the event’s growth: attendance reached 461, organised meetings climbed to 257, and the programme featured 48 speakers. For studios and professionals planning to attend next year, checking the schedule and arranging relevant meetings ahead of time can help make the most of the conference.
