In this edition of our spotlight series, we’re turning our focus to Electric Square. Known for its diverse portfolio and collaborative approach, Electric Square brings international experience and creative energy to Malta’s growing gaming industry, further strengthening the island’s reputation as a hub for game development.
From Brighton to Malta: The Electric Square Story
Electric Square was founded in 2015 in Brighton and Hove, UK, as a sister studio to Studio Gobo. Electric Square quickly carved its own identity, building a reputation for its expertise in game development. In 2018, both Studio Gobo and Electric Square were acquired by Keywords Studios, a leading international technical services provider to the global video game industry. Electric Square’s establishment in Malta opened new facilities in December 2023 alongside another Keywords branch company, Sperasoft. This strategic move was driven by Malta’s proactive efforts to cultivate its video game and esports sector.
Electric Square’s decision to expand into Malta is part of a broader growth strategy by its parent company, Keywords Studios, aimed at strengthening its presence in key international markets. Malta, with its strategic location in the Mediterranean, competitive business environment, and growing reputation as a hub for digital entertainment, offered an ideal setting for this expansion. The choice of St Julian’s, in particular, reflects a desire to embed the studio in a vibrant cultural and commercial area that attracts both local talent and international professionals.
The new Malta studio is designed to mirror the creative and collaborative spirit of its sister locations while also offering unique opportunities tailored to the local market. By establishing a strong operational base in Malta, Electric Square positions itself to access new markets, support multilingual projects, and reinforce its capabilities in co-development across various time zones.
With a team of nearly 300 professionals worldwide, Electric Square operates studios in Brighton (UK), Singapore, Malta, and Ireland. Its collaborative and innovative approach has earned it a reputation as a reliable partner for major game publishers and developers.
Delivering World-Class Titles
Electric Square is a prominent game development studio known for its work on AAA and virtual reality titles. They are known for their proficiency in full game development, taking projects from concept to completion, as well as co-development, where they work alongside client teams. The studio has contributed to several high-profile games, including Diablo IV, Battlefield 2042, Need for Speed: Unbound, Lords of the Fallen, and Assassin’s Creed Nexus VR.
Their capabilities span across multiple genres and platforms, including console, PC, and VR. Their portfolio also includes digital card games such as Parallel. Through their Reactor initiative, Electric Square explores cutting-edge technologies, aiming to deliver mind-blowing user experiences showcasing a deep commitment to research and development. Their online presence, as described by their digital partners, aims to embody this ambition and innovation, reflecting their cutting-edge approach to game development.
Culture, Inclusion, and Wellbeing
Electric Square places a strong emphasis on workplace culture. The company champions diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a studio environment that includes professionals from over 18 nationalities. Initiatives such as Wellbeing Week and the internal DEI group “Connected” support a positive and inclusive workplace. The company also partners with organisations like Safe In Our World and BAME in Games to promote mental health awareness and broader industry inclusion.
A Vision for Global Growth: Electric Square’s Impact on Malta’s Gaming Industry
Electric Square significantly boosts Malta’s gaming industry, with their presence bringing high-level game development expertise and international projects. The establishment of their facilities in Malta in December 2023, as a key part of Keywords Studios’ global network, marked a significant milestone for the island, providing several crucial benefits:
Elevated Malta’s Profile: Electric Square’s expertise in AAA game development boosts Malta’s reputation as a serious player in the global gaming industry. Their work on major international franchises and commitment to cutting-edge technology draw global attention and highlight Malta as a hub for creative and technological innovation.
Job Creation and Talent Attraction: Launching with a 40-person team in Malta and as part of a global studio of 300, Electric Square directly contributes to local job creation. Their presence helps retain local talent while attracting international professionals, enriching Malta’s gaming talent pool.
Knowledge Transfer and Skill Development: As a world-class studio at the forefront of game development, Electric Square offers valuable opportunities for skill development and knowledge sharing. Their work on complex AAA projects and emerging technologies like AI raises the bar for local developers.
Inspiration and Growth: Electric Square’s success inspires local startups and studios, proving that international recognition and high-level game development can thrive in Malta. Their presence fosters a more ambitious and growth-focused industry environment.
Reinforcement of Government Initiatives: The decision by a major player like Keywords Studios to expand Electric Square into Malta validates and reinforces the government’s strategic initiatives aimed at fostering the growth of the video game development sector. This includes ongoing support through entities like the GamingMalta Foundation, educational programs, and the attractive ecosystem Malta has actively built to draw in leading industry players.
Electric Square significantly elevates Malta’s standing as a serious and innovative force in global interactive entertainment development. Their continued growth here promises an exciting future for the sector in Malta.