University of Staffordshire has achieved its strongest-ever showing in the TIGA Games Industry Awards and TIGA Games Education Awards shortlists
I really love the breadth of the recognition in this shortlist. Our students, teaching, research and work with industry are all represented. These are very different areas of activity, but they are all connected by the same ambition. Specifically, to serve our industry, and to give our students an exceptional education and the strongest possible start to their careers.
Staffordshire Games Institute is shortlisted across eight categories at the TIGA Games Industry Awards 2026, including nominations for Arcade Game, Educational/Serious/Simulation Game, Heritage in Games, Puzzle Game, Social Game, Commitment to ESG, and Education Initiative.
Hosted by TIGA, the trade association representing the UK video games industry, the prestigious awards celebrate excellence across the whole of the UK games sector.
University of Staffordshire is also hoping for a hattrick in the Educational Institution category – after winning the award for past two consecutive years.
It remains the only university to have games shortlisted in the awards alongside established studios. This includes games created through 1UP scheme – Super Turbo Shrimp Blasters, The Fungus Among Us, Chamber and Beacon Bounce.
1UP is the Institute’s in-house games studio, providing students with six-week paid placements designed to replicate a professional games development environment.
Davin Ward, Course Director for Games Technologies, said: “A massive congratulations to all the students and staff who have had their hard work and talent recognised by these nominations.
“At the university we work closely with our partners in industry to ensure our courses remain up-to-date, relevant and prepare the students for the future. So, to see the games that have been developed within our 1UP scheme shortlisted alongside our industry partners is an honour and evidence that close collaboration is a key factor in the success of our students.”
Staffordshire Games Institute is also shortlisted in 11 categories at the TIGA UK Games Education Awards 2026, recognising outstanding students, graduates and education providers.
Staffordshire students have been shortlisted for Outstanding Graduate of the Year awards in Artist, Audio, Computer Games Technology, Designer and Programmer categories, alongside nominations for Outstanding Post-Graduate of the Year.
Other nominations include Innovative Teaching, Excellence in Games Research, Excellence in University-Industry Collaboration and Best Student Game. The University’s Games Professionals in Residence initiative is also shortlisted for Excellence in University-Industry Collaboration.
Professor Chris Headleand, Head of Staffordshire Games Institute, said: “I really love the breadth of the recognition in this shortlist. Our students, teaching, research and work with industry are all represented.
“These are very different areas of activity, but they are all connected by the same ambition. Specifically, to serve our industry, and to give our students an exceptional education and the strongest possible start to their careers.
“Whatever happens on awards night, everyone shortlisted should feel immensely proud of what they have achieved.”
Winners of the TIGA UK Games Education Awards 2026 will be revealed on 5 October, with the TIGA Games Industry Awards 2026 ceremony taking place on 18 November.
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