TWO North-East teenagers have made it to the finals of the Bafta Young Game Designers Competition.

Adam Pace, 18, of Sunderland and Thomas Robson, 17, of Durham defeated the competition to become one of the 53 finalists who have worked individually or in teams to submit one of the 40 entries.

They were chosen by a panel of industry professionals, who will reveal the winners at an awards ceremony at Bafta's headquarters, in London, on Saturday June 29.

Young people aged 10-18 years submitted game designs and concepts addressing a wide range of issues including mental health, climate change, conservation, disability, bereavement, and transgender rights.

A number of these entries strived to educate players of all ages on the social issues they address, hoping to prompt real change in people’s lives. Entries also included adventures, imaginary kingdoms and puzzles demonstrating impressive planning, creativity and ingenuity.

Adam’s game concept which is called, Wip explores friendship and loss as you defeat characters with the help of an AI friend. This is the second time Adam has made the final.

His game was inspired by the loss of his grandfather, so making the final is especially special for Adam.

He said: “I was thrilled to hear that I was able to be part of Bafta YGD for a second time. It is a motivation to create something and to continue to improve.

"Losing my grandad Noel last July inspired the underlying theme of loss in the game as well as the main theme of friendship in unlikely places and moving forward.”

Thomas’ game concept which is called ‘They Came From the Sea’ is an endless battle against waves of ghosts. Stay alive as long as possible to top the leader board. This is also the second time he has made the final.

He said: “To receive a second BAFTA nomination is just incredible. I have met some great people who I am sure I will be in contact with for many years to come - and maybe work with in the future - and I can’t wait to attend this year’s event and hopefully take home the award.”

Dr Jo Twist , chair of Bafta's games committee said: “Games are a fantastic art form for creators to express themselves, and I am delighted to see young people tackling important topics through their design and concept entries this year.

“Their creativity and ambition for social change through the medium of games is inspiring."