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

Strategic expansion of casual games business

Microsoft is giving away two downloadable games as part of an advertising deal with crisps brand Doritos. Avatar-based racer Doritos Crash Course is similar to Trials HD, while Harm’s Way is a more traditional car racing game. Both multiplayer titles can be downloaded for free on Xbox Live. The games …

Publisher offers no comment on possible buyout despite studio serenade

Fred Hasson departs from Redbedlam after a two-year stint

The games market has triumphed over the elements and even retail trends, achieving a third week of growth despite heavy snow. Retail analyst agency BDO released figures that show both High Street and online sales have declined when compared with last year. The firm said that harsh winter weather kept …

A flood of angry emails has prompted ITV to assure the industry that any investigation into video games addiction will be fair. Yesterday, the broadcaster sent out invitations for gamers or their parents whose education or relationships have suffered because of video games – or have suffered from violence connected …

Reloaded Productions gains access to online animation catalogue

Gem wants to move into new areas of games, and claim more business from its rivals in 2011. And it’s hired former GAME man Alex Croft to help make that happen. Croft, who left the retailer in the summer, strengthens the distributor’s exec team as group strategic development director. He …

'P4Ant' gives Java developers more options for managing source code

A lawsuit has been filed against Rockstar and parent Take-Two for allegedly using a musician’s likeness without his consent. Michael ‘Shagg’ Washingston, previous backup singer of rap group Cypress Hill has filed a legal complaint against the firms over Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas’ central character. Washington claims Carl ‘CJ’ …