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

The BBFC is to launch a new online ratings platform for downloadable games. The body admits that BBFC Online has the potential to rival PEGI’s equivalent – which drew much acclaim during Dr. Byron’s Review of young people’s access to inappropriate digital material. BBFC Online is due to be launched …

Democratic leadership candidate Barack Obama yesterday mentioned GTA IV’s release in a speech… without even a hint of moral hysteria. Addressing citizens in Indiana, Obama made reference to the game’s popularity – before seeming to back the industry’s message of it being an ‘adult game for adults’. According to GamePolitics …

It’s a sad day for fans of gaming on television – as Gamer TV has announced it is to cease broadcasting after five years. In a statement, the company explained: ‘After being on air continuously since December 2002, Gamer TV, Europe’s most respected games television series, has ended its run …

Activision CEO Bobby Kotick has spoken of his concern over EA’s hostile acquisition bid for Take Two – particularly the mega-publisher’s potential sports potfolio. If EA’s tender offer allows it to take over Take Two, it would own the successful – and critically lauded – 2K Sports range, alongside its …

Activision CEO Bobby Kotick has predicted that the slowing economy will put pressure on console manaufacturers to lower the price of their machines. He said that the rising cost of living could render 200-plus hardware a thing of the past, as consumers tightened their belts. Speaking to Reuters, Kotick said: …

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos contributes to Flash game site

Epic president to shed light on Gears of War 2's development

Capcom has confirmed that Okami is to arrive on European shores on Friday June 13th. The Zelda-inspired critically-acclaimed adventure originated on PlayStation 2, and has been ported to Wii with new controls and 480p widescreen mode. It was released in the US on April 15th to favourable reviews (Metacritic rating …

Intent Media, publisher of Develop and MCV, launches CasualGaming.biz

Series C funding round to fund 'major strategic change'?