As we build towards the TIGA Games Industry Awards 2024, we take a look back at the winners of last year’s awards, asking them what winning has meant for them, what advice they’d give anyone entering this year, and more. Here we speak to Chris Mehers, COO of FuturLab, which won Best Casual Game for PowerWash Simulator…
How has winning a TIGA Award impacted your project/company since last year?
The recognition from the TIGA Awards really meant a lot to the whole FuturLab family. It was a huge morale boost for the team and it’s great to have acknowledgement from our peers that PowerWash Simulator is something special, not just commercially, but most importantly in terms of the player experience. The team has worked so hard on the game and its additional content since release, and it’s great to know it still holds a special place in people’s hearts.
What pearls of wisdom would you share with this year’s nominees based on your TIGA Awards experience?
Getting nominated is a huge honour, and we were over the moon to win the Best Casual Game Award for PowerWash Simulator. The whole experience of attending the awards and being a part of the ceremony alongside the other amazing titles is great. Try to relax and enjoy it, whether you win or not, and know that you’ve earned your place as a nominee.
What advice would you give to aspiring developers starting their careers?
We feel that it’s most important to be clear on who you are making your game for and focus on the core ‘moment to moment’ experience. This can be really helpful, especially if you need to control the scope of a project. Then ultimately, make something that excites you, and that you would enjoy playing.
In your opinion, how can industry associations like TIGA continue to support and elevate the video game development community?
It all starts with being seen for who we are, for what we achieve, and the joy we bring to millions around the world. Keep banging the drum!
About The TIGA Awards
The TIGA Games Industry Awards 2024 will take place on Thursday November 28th at Shoreditch Town Hall, London.
Nominations are open now, until August 2nd, and there are categories suitable for all to enter. Find out more here.
The TIGA Games Industry Awards are made possible, thanks to the support of our sponsors. They include Toikido (After Show Party); Sumo Group, Supermassive Games and Ubisoft (Gold Sponsors); Abertay University and Staffordshire University (Silver Sponsors); Birmingham City University, Bournemouth University, Eaton Smith, Kwalee, Outplay Entertainment, Playground Games, Space Ape Games, Stevens & Bolton, Testronic and Universally Speaking (Bronze Sponsors).
SpecialEffect has once again been chosen as the Charity Partner for the TIGA Awards. This inspirational organisation transforms the lives of physically disabled people right across the world through the innovative use of technology.
A limited number of sponsorship opportunities are available. To find out more email Suzi Stephenson via suzi@tiga.org.