Iconic 1980s UK studio Hewson Consultants returns with first game in 25 years

One of the UK’s most notable developers of yesteryear is back with a brand new title.

Hewson Consultants produced a number of games for computers such as the ZX80, ZX81 and Sinclair between 1981 and 1991, including Avalon, Paradroid, Nebulus and Zarathrusta.

The company closed in 1991, with founder Andrew Hewson going onto form 21st Century Entertainment.

In 2013, Hewson Kickstarted a book about his experience working in development, Hints and Tips for Videogame Pioneers, which is due for release this year.

Other alumni of the company include Raff Cecco, John Phillips and Dominic Robinson, as well as the original founders of DICE.

Now, the games division of Hewson Consultants has been relaunched under the leadership of CEO and creative director Rob Hewson – formerly game director at LEGO studio TT Fusion – announcing its first release in a quarter of a century.

Currently in early production, Mechinus is a puzzle platformer set in a steampunk environment.

Hewson is joined by John Ogden, who counts among his experience The Foundry, Dark Energy Digital and Blade Interactive. Ogden also spent time developing iPlayer, BBC Sport and 3D graphics apps at the BBC.

Hewson Consultants has been backed by the UK Games Fund, being one of the first 24 recipients of the grant.