University of Chester graduates win games pitching bootcamp

Thomas McIntosh and Sam Hill, who studied the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Games Development at the University, were crowned the winners at the first-ever Liverpool Game Developers Network (LGDN) Pitching Bootcamp. They took the title after impressing judges with their innovative, turn-based, role-playing game (RPG), SunTide, which is set in a vibrant solar punk world.

The recent LGDN Bootcamp, designed to help aspiring game developers refine their pitching skills and connect with industry professionals, attracted talented participants from across the North West.

The University of Chester’s Games Development BSc (Hons) degree equips students with the skills to design, develop, and release games for a global audience. With a strong emphasis on design and development skills, practical experience, collaboration, industry standards, and entrepreneurial thinking, the course prepares graduates for careers in a fast-growing creative sector.

Thomas said: “We're still coming to terms with our pitch winning; it's definitely given us the boost and motivation we needed to keep this project alive.

“The event was such a great learning experience, it was a genuine pleasure to watch the other teams at work pitching their ideas, and we definitely came out of the bootcamp with a lot of great advice and new connections. We owe a huge thanks to the organisers, the judges and speakers.

“We hope to have more news on SunTide over the next year so keep an eye out for what’s next.”

Dr Lee Beever, Senior Lecturer in Computer and Engineering Sciences at the University of Chester shared his congratulations: “It’s fantastic to see our graduates being recognised not only for their creativity and pitching expertise, but also for the passion and determination that will drive their success beyond graduation. Throughout their studies, they’ve refined their design skills, mastered practical techniques, and learned how to pitch compelling game ideas. Seeing them take those lessons and confidently apply them in the real world is great to see.”

Marek Smagala, LGDN Organiser, also commented: “The purpose of this bootcamp was to support local indie developers at the early stages of their journey, providing invaluable learning opportunities through our talks and masterclass sessions, and our pitching competition with a small grant of £1,000 to directly support the development of the winning game. A huge congratulations to Thomas and Sam, whose game SunTide captured the judges’ attention with some brilliantly unique mechanics, and their passion for the game really shone through.”

Amber Gaffoor, Venture and Volunteering Co-ordinator at the University, added: “We’re thrilled to see our graduates excel at the LGDN Games Pitching Bootcamp. This achievement reflects not only their talent but also the entrepreneurial mindset we foster through initiatives like the Venture Programme. Working with LGDN helps us bridge the gap between education and industry, giving students real-world opportunities to shine.”

The LGDN is a growing community that supports game developers through events, networking opportunities, and skill-building activities. Find out more and get involved at: https://linktr.ee/liverpoolgdn

For further information about the University of Chester’s Games Development BSc (Hons) course and how it prepares students for success in the gaming industry, please visit: https://www.chester.ac.uk/study/course-search/games-development-bsc-hons/

Images:

• Liverpool Game Developers Network (LGDN) Pitching Bootcamp winners, Sam Hill (on left) and Thomas McIntosh.
• Organiser, Marek Smagala at the LGDN Pitching Bootcamp.