A new state-of-the art gametech campus has launched at HOST – the Home of Skills & Technology – in MediaCityUK, Salford.
Operated by IN4 Group, HOST Gametech is an interactive, immersive campus designed to stimulate skills and employment routes for people of all ages and backgrounds, giving them access to career opportunities within the multi-billion pound industry.
The campus is a result of continued investment from Salford City Council and MediaCity and the first of its kind in the North of England. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham voiced his support for the initiative at a launch event earlier this week which brought together gametech, esports and creative digital communities.
The University of Salford, which will make use of the training and education areas within HOST Gametech as it gears up for the launch of its esports degree in 2023, also discussed how the facilities will help to make the region an educational centre of excellence for gaming, esports and the metaverse.
The space includes 50 video game stations and dedicated console stations – which have been provided by leading manufacturer of custom-built gaming PCs Yoyotech – along with a tournament arena, online streaming facilities and a casual gaming space.
Students from Primrose Hill Primary School in Salford were among those putting the cutting-edge gaming technology to the test at the launch. Lionscreed, one of the UK’s leading professional esports teams, was also on-site as the team took part in a match play competition.
As part of the City Partnership program, set up last year between Austin, Texas and Manchester, HOST Gametech will link to another elite gaming environment, at the Alienware Longhorn Lounge in Port San Antonio. This partnership aims to support talent and encourage people in both Manchester and Austin to explore the world of esports and access some of the opportunities the sector is creating.
Mo Isap, CEO of IN4 Group, said: “HOST Gametech is an incredibly important step in helping MediaCity to realise its ambition to become a world leading centre of excellence for immersive entertainment tech. Through the campus, we will attract global leaders and partners in gametech and ensure that everyone has fair access to the vast opportunities that this sector is presenting for the region.’’
Stephen Wild, MD of MediaCity, added: ‘‘Gametech at HOST will be a huge pull for MediaCity, helping to attract the most forward-looking players in the sector to build a presence in the region. Gametech and esports is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world and this campus is providing the skills training and job opportunities that will give local people a route into the industry.’’
