Making a mark

May 14 2008 by Sue Scott, Evening Gazette

HISTORIC landmarks such as Hadrian’s Wall could soon become interactive, thanks to a Teesside software firm.

Black Ridge Games, based at the University of Teesside, has received funding from the NStar Design and Creative Fund to support the development of its innovative 3D mapping, augmented reality and movement tracking software.

Aimed at the latest generation of handheld consoles, mobiles and PCs, the new applications use 3D animation to help users interact with chosen environments and locations.

Backed by investment of £60,000 from the NStar Design and Creative Fund, the firm is now creating interactive content for a range of educational programmes designed for use at outdoor locations or in classrooms.

The new funding builds on the investment the firm received from the Proof of Concept Fund to initially develop the technology.

Matthew Prodger, studio manager at Black Ridge, explains: “We can map out a fully rendered 3D landscape - offering the same quality as Google Earth - in the palm of someone’s hand.

“We can also track movements in real time and overlay a 3D object on to a real time image. At Hadrian’s Wall for instance, we could rebuild a fort on screen as it would have looked hundreds of years ago.”

Black Ridge Games was founded in 2001, initially developing interactive content and software including online football management games and a betting game for bookmaker William Hill. It is now using its new technology to develop a portfolio of educational programmes.

Matthew added: “We’re in the process of developing new programmes and are keen to explore new markets. The scope is endless really. It could be anything from programmes designed for battlefield tours in Europe to a national park guide.”

Mark Fenwick, NStar Design and Creative fund manager, said: “This follow-on funding demonstrates that companies in the North East have a continuum of finance to support them. Proof of Concept investment was crucial in the development of the technology, now we’re helping them to realise its commercial potential by providing funding for the creation of content.”

The Design and Creative Fund aims to channel the region’s creative energy into commercial success. It provides finance to help developing companies reach their potential and encourage growth in the North East design and creative sector.