We are delighted to announce our continuing support of Dare Academy, Abertay University’s acclaimed gaming competition to uncover the next generation of Scottish computer games creators for blockbuster success.
The annual game design competition, which we have backed with sponsorship and mentorship since 2017, is designed to not only ensure that creators have technical skills but that they are equipped with critical legal and business know-how too.
The programme will see six teams of Abertay undergraduate students develop a game prototype this summer, competing for the top prize of £5,000 and showcasing their games at the massive EGX Expo London.
Dare’s strength is that it replicates an industry environment, challenging students to work together across the disciplines of the courses offered by the School of Design and Informatics to produce a new game under time pressure.
Our lawyers will share advice regarding the legalities of the games industry and offering tips and guidance on key corporate and employment matters.
Alastair Smith, a Director in our Corporate and Commercial team, is part of the team at the firm who supports those taking part. He said: “The remarkable talent of creators whose skills were developed in Dundee can be seen in some of the gaming world’s biggest blockbusters, which is of huge credit to the opportunities offered at Abertay.
“We are in no doubt that the Dare Academy is an influential component in that, which is why we are delighted to continue our support.
“The greatest game hits combine creativity with business acumen - including knowing your legal rights and responsibilities. It’s important that creators understand the complexities of copyright, employment issues and so much more.
“It’s always fascinating to meet the contenders at the workshops. We hope the insights we share add even more value to an event which has become an undoubted springboard to creative and commercial success.”
The competition’s other sponsors are Henderson Loggie, Epic Games - creators of smash hit Fortnite - Fuse Games and Chrome Productions.
Dare Academy has a long track record of producing successful start-up companies, with teams including Bit Loom, Puny Astronaut and many others going on to achieve critical and commercial success as fully-fledged businesses.
Dr Dayna Galloway, Head of the Division of Games and Arts at Abertay University, said: “We are extremely grateful to the partners of Dare Academy for their support of the competition this year.
“The support of the competition and the guidance and expertise they share with the teams, equips our students with invaluable knowledge they will use throughout their careers within the industry.”
This article featured in Scottish Legal News on 6 July 2023.