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

Microsoft will directly challenge Nintendo’s mass-market media efforts when it launches Natal later this year. MCV understands that format-holder Microsoft is already planning early promotional efforts for the camera device to include celebrity endorsements and coverage in non-games media. Microsoft this week invited an ‘elite selection of media’ and non-games …

When Natal arrives later this year it will have a key USP over rivals Wii and Sony’s motion device – a truly controller-less interface. But SCEA boss Jack Tretton has stated that his company’s experience with the EyeToy has taught it that the approach brings with it its own disadvantages. …

EA-Owned Playfish plans to seriously grow the audience for its social games – by forging partnerships with leading High Street brands. The otherwise online-only firm has tied-up with the likes of Sainsbury’s, HMV and even games-shy WHSmith to sell in-game currency cash cards. While the developer offers a range of …

The Entertainment Retailers Association has defended Tesco and Asda’s decision to take their first tentative steps into the pre-owned market. Given the size and success of the pre-owned market, it is only logical that existing games retailers are expanding into the pre-owned sector alongside their new games offering,” ERA director …

So, were you one of the chosen ones? Finalists for the 2010 MCV Industry Excellence Awards have been chosen (scroll down for the full list below if you just can’t wait) – and over 60 companies are in the running for the hotly-contested awards. Activision and Ubisoft score the most …

Having made the headlines for suggesting that Valve’s ownership of digital distribution portal Steam lead to a conflict of interest” last year, Gearbox boss Randy Pitchford has moved to calm the waters surrounding his comments. Look, Valve and Gearbox have had a relationship for a long time and it’s incredible …

Studio CEO says the project was put on hold after a license was attached to it

The VVVVVV creator gets the rapid-fire question treatment

While the Avalanche CEO implies that reckless studio acquisitions are â??an American thingâ??

EVE Online developer purportedly taps talent from fallen studio Midway Newcastle