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

Mergers, acquisition and consolidation leave no part of the games industry untouched: today respected market research agency Screen Digest has agreed to an acquisition by US-based data firm iSuppli. iSuppli’s specialism is ‘the electronics value chain’ – it’s best known for offering price guides to components used in hardware like …

Electronic Arts is no longer being sued by music firm Gibson Guitar Corporation over its Rock Band controllers. The companies have told Magistrate Judge Juliet that they had reached a full settlement” and will be seeking dismissal of the case by June 14, according to a federal court filing. Terms …

Europe has been identified as a key expansion target for growing social games developer Playdom. The company intends to fully localise some of its most popular Facebook and MySpace games for the English, German, French, Spanish and Italian markets. First up will be Facebook football title Bola. In 2010 thus …

Linden Lab to reduce its workforce by thirty per cent

Japan’s Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association has released figures that show how severe a problem piracy is on Nintendo DS. CESA claimed Pokmon Platinum is the most pirated game with 2.07m transfers recorded, worth YEN 9.5 billion ($m). In fact, three of the most downloaded games were Pokmon titles, with Pokmon …

An overnight update to the PlayStation Network has ushered in anew era of 3D gaming on PS3. Users who have a compatible 3D TV can now download a 3D starter pack from PSN for 23.99 that includes full 3D versions of WipEout 3D and Super Stardust HD, 3D bonus content …

Bundle pack for £23.99 offers four tasters of Sony's newest push in home gaming

Microsoft, Monumental and Assyria offering lectures at no charge

Final Fantasy publisher Square Enix has announced a barrage of games it will be showcasing at this year’s E3. A range of key titles will make an appearance at the event fronted by PS3 and PC MMO Final Fantasy XIV, and the digital download-only Lara Croft and the Guardian of …

Two videos apparently originating from Japan and highlighting the new 3D functions of Sony’s PS3 have sent internet rumour-mongers into a frenzy – partially because both seem to feature the term ‘PS4′. The chances of the TV spots actually being early marketing material for a successor to PS3 are incredibly …