Here are the first finalists for the 2026 GamesIndustry.biz Best Places To Work Awards UK
GamesIndustry.biz has announced the first finalists for its 2026 Best Places To Work Awards UK, with the awards ceremony taking place on October 1 at The Royal Institution in London.
The awards programme recognizes excellence across specific categories and areas of workplace achievement, running alongside the main Best Places to Work Awards which separately recognize small, medium, and large companies. This tiered approach allows the industry to celebrate diverse forms of workplace success and company culture development.
Zynga-owned NaturalMotion Games leads the field in terms of special award nominations, appearing as a finalist in five categories. Close behind is London-based Rocksteady Studios with four nominations, while Jagex, Playground Games, and Rare have each secured three nominations. These statistics suggest that larger studios and established names within the UK games industry are particularly well-positioned in this year’s competition.
The awards highlight the UK games industry’s ongoing commitment to recognizing workplace excellence, positive company cultures, and best practices in employment. With studios such as NaturalMotion Games, Rocksteady, Rare, Jagex, and Playground Games all featuring prominently among the finalists, the awards showcase some of the most respected employers in the sector.