Edinburgh, Scotland — Pioneering Scottish games developer 4J Studios, best known for its console editions of the global hit Minecraft, has opened its first Edinburgh office as development on its next major title, Reforj, gathers pace.

The award-winning Dundee-based firm, founded in 2005 by Chris van der Kuyl and Paddy Burns, said the new George Street studio will focus on software and design roles. Recruitment is already underway to tap into the capital’s growing games sector talent pool.

Best known for bringing Minecraft to Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo consoles, 4J is now concentrating on Reforj, scheduled for release in 2026. The game is being built on the company’s proprietary Elements Engine and developed in collaboration with players through its “Pioneer Program,” which gives hundreds of gamers early access to provide feedback during production.

To further enhance community engagement, 4J has enlisted Joe Garrett a prominent Minecraft content creator whose YouTube channels have amassed billions of views to work alongside the Reforj design team.

“This is as exhilarating a time as we can remember for the firm,” said Burns, the company’s CEO. “The pioneer programme is really taking off, and opening our first office in Edinburgh gives us better access to the city’s diverse software and design talent.”

Scotland’s video games sector has expanded dramatically in recent years, with the number of studios rising from 15 in 2010 to 130 in 2024, and turnover soaring from £38.1 million to £340 million. This growth has helped attract the prestigious Dice Europe games industry event to Edinburgh and Dundee later this year the first time it will be held in Scotland.

“Dice Europe coming to Edinburgh and Dundee is a major moment of international recognition for our home-grown industry,” said van der Kuyl, 4J’s chairman. “We hope opening this new office underlines our commitment to rewarding and nurturing talent.”