MCV/DEVELOP News, events, research and jobs from the games industry

ABC’s position in the games media industry is under threat. Top press execs have questioned the relevance of the readership tracker following the latest round of results. All games magazines lost readers compared with last year’s figures, some by as much as 25 per cent. But this isn’t reflective of …

We’ve had lots of praise lately for the way MCV has supported the industry during a tough start to the year. And we’re grateful that many have noticed our proactive stance on what the trade’s strengths are. But MCV also has to be honest about its weaknesses, too. What exactly …

Just when you thought there was no room left for new games publications, three have emerged during the last week alone. Two magazines have been announced – MyM and Continue – flying in the face of claims that print is dead. The former will launch at WH Smiths and independent …

Warner Bros’ online shooter Gotham City Imposters became last week’s best-selling Xbox Live Arcade game. The multiplayer-focused Batman title reached the No.1 spot ahead of Pinball FX2, Warp, The Simpsons Arcade Game and Fruit Ninja Kinect. This is in terms of full versions purchased. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 …

Consumers who buy from Zavvi.com can now earn loyalty points, giving them money off future purchases. Zavvi has introduced a new Rewardz loyalty scheme, which offers customers points every time they buy a game or other item from the online store. For every 1 a consumer spends on Zavvi.com, they’ll …

It’s a week of hotly anticipated returns this week, with EA dusting off a classic franchise and a sales phenomenon coming home. EA’s Syndicate reboots the classic strategy action game as an intense FPS, set in a future where corporations are at war. The game also introduces four-player online co-op …

California was forced to pick up the legal fees for a Supreme court case regarding legislation to fine retailers for selling minors games deemed violent. The cost to taxpayers totalled about $1.8m dollars for a law which never took effect, The Sacramento Beereported. The Supreme court ruled against the law, …

Sony has announced that it is to trial a new free-to-play version of popular FPS hit Killzone 3. As of next week a free download will be available on PSN for PS3 owners. It will contain the entire multiplayer portion of the game, including all the available maps. However, it …

Supermarket chain Asda has revealed a new trade-in deal for 3DS owners who are considering a swap for Sony’s new PlayStation Vita. The retailer was already selling the new handheld for a market leading 197. It is now offering a hefty 100 for any 3DS handed over against a purchase. …

A proposed Oklahoma bill that aimed to add a 1% tax on violent video games has failed approval in a state House subcommittee. The Video Game Voters Network reports that HB 2696 was defeated earlier this week in a meeting of the House Revenue and Tax Subcommittee. The bill had …