Hiro Capital has just pulled back the curtain on an exciting new advisory division that promises to shake up the landscape for game development funding in the UK and the EU. This initiative, known as Hiro Advisory, has been in the works for about 18 months and is firmly in the capable hands of founding partners Spike Laurie and Mike McGarvey. Laurie, already a partner at Hiro Capital, joins forces with McGarvey, a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience spanning over three decades. McGarvey’s resume includes high-profile roles at Eidos, where he served as president, CEO, and COO, as well as early ventures in streaming technology with OnLive and extensive work with QA company Testronic.
The duo’s combined expertise is not merely for show; it reflects the firm’s commitment to supporting developers at every stage of their journey. By fostering independence among game studios, Hiro has already made a substantial impact, having helped companies like The Chinese Room and Bulkhead achieve greater autonomy. This kind of support underscores Hiro’s belief that the UK and EU are ripe for a fresh wave of game development, especially as traditional funding avenues shift.
With the rise of independent studios, the need for strategic guidance and financial backing has never been more crucial. Hiro Advisory aims to bridge this gap, providing not only capital but also insights drawn from years of industry experience. The initiative comes at a pivotal moment as developers seek to navigate a rapidly changing market dominated by new technologies and shifting consumer expectations.
Given McGarvey’s impressive track record, it is clear that Hiro is more than just another venture capital firm. This bold move to set up an advisory branch suggests they are serious about cultivating homegrown talent and innovation in the gaming sector. As the industry evolves, Hiro’s approach could position it as a key player in shaping the future of game development across Europe.
Source: gamesindustry.biz




