Hell Let Loose developer Expression opens new studio in Manchester “in response to what’s happening in the talent market”
Expression Games, the remote developer behind Hell Let Loose: Vietnam, has announced the opening of its first physical studio location in Manchester. The move comes as the studio seeks to better support both its staff and co-development partners.
CEO Errol Ismail explained that while the company will continue supporting remote work arrangements, the physical Manchester location will “support the lifestyle of our team” and meet the requirements of partner studios. This decision reflects broader industry shifts in how game developers are responding to talent market pressures.
The announcement comes as Hell Let Loose: Vietnam continues to perform strongly, having sold over one million units since its August release. The title represents a significant commercial success for Expression Games and has established the studio as a notable independent developer.
Beyond Vietnam, Expression Games has been engaged in extended co-development work, including a two-year partnership with Fuse Games on Star Wars Galactic Racer. Such collaborative partnerships often require closer coordination and in-person collaboration, likely influencing the decision to establish a physical presence.
The move represents a transition from a fully distributed team model to a hybrid approach, balancing the flexibility and talent pool advantages of remote work with the coordination and team cohesion benefits of a physical office.