About ForthStar
What is ForthStar?
ForthStar is a unique games company based in Manchester, UK, on a mission to make big free-to-play hits. Established in 2023 by Playdemic founders Paul Gouge and Alex Rigby, alongside a team of exceptionally talented industry veterans, ForthStar's core belief is that "the best games are made by highly accomplished teams with freedom for creative innovation."
The mission is clear: to create great games that millions of people love to play every day for years. ForthStar is privately owned, funded by its founders and Griffin Gaming Partners — "one of the world's largest venture funds focused exclusively on gaming." Together the founders and Griffin have invested $10 million in ForthStar, providing secure foundations for the business.
AI is described as "a core part of how we work at ForthStar, not a bolt-on" — used as "a genuine force multiplier for their craft" rather than a replacement.
Where will I work?
ForthStar operates from a high-spec studio in Altrincham, Manchester, with the 4-day workweek run on-site Monday-Thursday "to enhance collaboration and productivity." All applicants must be UK-based and legally eligible to work in the UK.
What is the ForthStar team like?
The leadership team brings deep games-industry experience, with Paul Gouge (Co-Founder & CEO), Alex Rigby (Co-Founder & Creative Director), Adrian Hall (CTO), Mike Rigby (Head of Design), Matt Begley (Head of Data), George Carmichael (Head of A.I.), Chantal Zuurmond (Head of Production), and Anna Tappenden (People, Culture & Workplace Manager). The culture promotes "collaboration, innovation, and the continuous pursuit of better," and is committed to "an anti-crunch philosophy."
Work-Life Balance
From day one, ForthStar embraced a 4 day work week (renewed annually, subject to review) "because we believe this output-focused approach enables our team to deliver their best work, optimising productivity while also improving their overall wellbeing." Time off is 22 days holiday + UK bank holidays. The anti-crunch philosophy is core to how the studio operates.
Perks and Benefits
- 4 Day Week (Mon-Thu, on-site at the Altrincham studio; renewed annually)
- 22 Days Holiday + UK Bank Holidays
- Private Medical Insurance + virtual GP + flu vaccinations
- Group Life Cover
- Enhanced Pension Scheme
- Profit Based Bonus
- Family Friendly Leave + Nursery Benefit Scheme
- Onsite Gym + Cycle-to-Work + Commuter Season Ticket Loans + Contract Car Parking
- Learning & Development Opportunities
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Regular socials + retail discounts + later life concierge