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

Microsoft has reportedly registered a patent for a drop-in/drop-out feature in an online co-op shooter. The application was made to the United States Patent and Trademark Office during the reign of the original Xbox in December 2002, according to Kotaku. The patent has now been approved, and refers to: A …

US publisher Mamba Games is to begin releasing titles in the UK, following a sales and distribution deal with Lace Digital Media Sales. The US company began co-publishing with European firms after being founded by former THQ commercial director Robert Neilsen last year – but will now enjoy direct distribution …

Games portal Kikizo has launched a brand new website named BlurayDaily.com that focuses on films and the growing HD disc format.

 Aimed at avid film enthusiasts and fans of the cutting-edge Blu-ray movie format”, the move marks an interesting foray into the wider entertainment space for the popular online games …

The genesis and secrets of Lionhead's latest curio

Former Sega marketing director Tina Moore (nee Hicks) has set up a company offering project work for companies looking to keep down their marketing overhead. Moore has held key roles at UbiSoft, Take 2, Microsoft and Sega over the past 15 years and brings a wealth of experience and contacts. …

Many ex-Bullfrog staff remain at EA Bright Light, says studio head

Plans are building for August’s Edinburgh Interactive Festival. Taking place on Thursday, August 13th and 14th, the two-day event will open with a keynote from EA Sports boss Peter Moore. Key names from Endemol, Playfish, Jagex, BMO Capital Markets, Turbine and German games giant Bigpoint are all signed up to …

UK entertainment union calls for developers to set their own agenda for unionisation

The video game adaptation of the classic children’s picture book Where the Wild Things Are has been confirmed. Due to be published by Warner on DS, PS3, Wii and 360, the game is scheduled to reach consumers in November this year. On 11th December 2009 a Spike Jonze-directed film based …

Rumours are beginning to intensify that Microsoft’s Halo studio has established itself as 343 Industries”.

 Last year Microsoft Game Studios hired high-profile talent to its internal Halo studio, snapping up the likes of former MGS4 assistant producer Ryan Payton and Bungie’s Frank O’Connor.
 The studio hasn’t established its own name …