Every year, the Into Games 50 awards celebrates 50 of the most employable, yet currently unemployed, aspiring games industry professionals in the UK. It’s become one of our most powerful platforms for surfacing talent, levelling the playing field, and building bridges between overlooked individuals and the studios who need them.

Since launching, the IG50 has helped over 40% of its winners go on to find work in the sector - many of them in roles they once thought out of reach. It’s a testament to what happens when we shine a light on those with talent, drive, and creativity, but who lack the industry contacts, support networks, or background that traditionally open doors.

This year, we’re making a bold change.

From now on, the Into Games 50 will focus exclusively on applicants from low-income and working-class backgrounds.

Why? Because the data tells us it’s necessary. Our Difficulty Level report highlighted a stark truth: someone from a working-class background is three times less likely to get a job in games than their middle-class peers. Despite the sector’s progressive values and huge demand for talent, social class remains one of the biggest, least addressed barriers to entry.

It’s time we tackle that head-on.

This shift in focus is more than just a tweak - it reflects a wider mission change at Into Games. We’re doubling down on efforts to support those from underrepresented and disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds, making sure our initiatives go where they’re needed most. That means championing potential that’s been overlooked, not because of lack of skill, but because of structural inequality.

We know the IG50 works. We’ve seen studios use it as a recruitment tool. We’ve seen employers open their minds to different kinds of experience and ability. And we’ve seen the difference it makes when someone gets that first break, often after years of trying to get noticed.

By refining who this initiative is for, we’re making sure the IG50 has even greater impact. We’re not lowering the bar - we’re raising visibility. We’re not narrowing opportunities - we’re targeting it where it can do the most good.

If you work in games, I’d ask you to support this shift. Share the word when applications open on the 16th April. Nominate someone brilliant. Take a fresh look at who you’re hiring, and why. Because class shouldn’t be a barrier to creativity - and talent can come from anywhere.

Let’s keep building an industry that proves it.

Declan Cassidy

Into Games, CEO