Everyone is gaming in 2023. Well, nearly everyone. Given gaming’s enhanced offering in the modern environment, more and more of us are sampling games after eating some fine food and drink or before heading upstairs to bed. Millions of more senior people grew up with a series of iconic releases, too, while others discovered gaming fairly recently. It’s massive.
Ireland’s very own game companies are impacting this lucrative category of entertainment, too. Competition is certainly strong, though. For example, titles like Horizon Forbidden West and Elden Ring are hugely popular among the console and PC gaming community, while smartphone and tablet gamers are exploring hit releases, such as Candy Crush Saga, coupled with games based on iconic movies, such as the Gladiator Jackpot casino game. The options for the gaming community have never been so diverse, while the sheer amount of games that populate this go-to area of entertainment is mightily impressive.
In recent times, some of Ireland’s top companies have created a number of leading products of their own. Some companies are based in Dublin and are expected to gain even more traction in the near future, too. As the Irish game industry continues to offer encouragement, let’s take a look at some of Dublin’s best companies, plus some emerging names, that are playing their part.
Frogwares
Also working out of Ukraine, Frogwares’ Dublin-based studio has been responsible for some excellent releases since the company was founded in 2000. At the time of writing, the company is aiming to add to its diverse catalogue of games that includes the likes of Sherlock Holmes that was accessible on the Nintendo Wii. World of Battles is another release that achieved notable success for Frogwares, with the development team of bright minds proving their capabilities in a number of top titles.
Boon Studios
Millions of people play console and PC games but mobile gaming has risen up the ranks to become a preference for so many, too. In fact, mobile gaming is booming globally, with companies like Boon Studios hoping to capitalise on its growing appeal. A studio that was founded in 2015, the company is striving to create the next hit release after already being responsible for some impressive mobile gaming titles. A small company compared to what they’re up against, Boon Studios has a big future.
Demonware
While Demonware isn’t strictly an Irish company, it has Irish offices that are packed full of talented people that continue to contribute to the company’s rise. A name behind massive releases, such as Call of Duty, this subsidiary of Activision Blizzard is one of the most respected names in the industry, with Irish employees occupying a number of important roles and more than playing their part.
Bluebear
Creating games for families, Bluebeard’s range of products have entertained mass audiences in recent times. Founded in 2010, the company’s 40 games have been downloaded more than 100 million times thanks to a range of solid products that provide plenty of fun and entertainment to people. Hit releases include Shave Santa, although Bluebear is responsible for many more. With bigger things expected of the Dublin-based company in the future, Bluebear is a name gamers could get more familiar with soon.
Riot Games
After starting in 2006, Riot Games has gone on to become one of the biggest companies in this massive facet of entertainment. The company’s debut title, League of Legends, has achieved global success and is a thriving product within the esports sphere. While the company is headquartered in Los Angeles, its Irish arm has played a major role in the company’s global success.
