Agenda

In this session, Osian Williams explores the rise of the Welsh games industry through the lens of COPA Gaming, an independent studio developing The Department, a single-player detective game set in Wales.

Drawing on over a decade of experience in UK film and television, Osian shares how cinematic craft, cultural identity, and government-backed support are converging to shape a new generation of Welsh-made interactive experiences.

He discusses the impact of Creative Wales' Scale Up funding, the importance of building sustainable studios outside traditional industry hubs, and how diversified revenue including Unreal Engine education and marketplace assets enables creative independence.

This talk offers practical insight into building globally competitive IP from a small nation, and demonstrates how embracing local culture can become a powerful strategic advantage in the international games market

Takeaway

Attendees gain practical insight into building a first original IP from the ground up, including securing public funding through Creative Wales, structuring a vertical slice for publisher conversations, and using Unreal Engine education and asset revenue to de-risk development while remaining creatively independent.

Intended Audience

This session targets independent studio founders, producers, and creative directors building their first original IP, particularly those outside major industry hubs. It benefits developers seeking sustainable funding and revenue strategies. No prerequisites are required, though familiarity with game production pipelines and publisher pitching is helpful.