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

Following a troubled period for Microsoft’s gaming network Xbox Live that saw many users’ service disrupted over the traditionally gamer-friendly Christmas period, Microsoft has stated that it is to offer a free Arcade game to all subscribers. The announcement, which was made through Major Nelson’s blog, stated: During this past …

SPECIAL REPORT: Leading UK developers urge authorities to act in providing further industry support

Gore Verbinski set for keynote address at February event

Microsoft has revealed a new set of figures following a bumper festive period, according to Reuters . As well as reaching the 17.7m mark in terms of worldwide console sales, the platform holder confirmed that it has shifted 4.3m units in the last three months. On top of the hardware …

Late last year Microsoft announced a new XNA AI competition Silicon Minds, which offers contestants the chance to win an internship at Lionhead, Rare, or Microsofot's Research Labs team in Cambridge. We spoke to Microsoft Research Labs' Joaquin Quiñonero Candela to find out more�

The recent approval of French government tax breaks for developers by the EU was greeted with considerable interest at Blitz HQ.

Epic Games' new UE3-based shooter used in classes at US youth summer camp

THIS COMPETITION HAS NOW CLOSED. THE WINNER WILL BE REVEALED IN NEXT WEEK’S MCV.

After ten years at the publisher, MCV can reveal that James Ellingford has left Take 2. While he relinquishes his full time role, he will continue at the publisher as a consultant. Ellingford’s departure comes after a turbulent period for the publisher, which has made widespread staff cuts and sold …

DSGi has lowered its profit expectations by 40 – 50 million for the year, following disappointing sales over the Christmas period. For the 11 weeks ended December 29th 2007, like for like sales dropped by one per cent, which the group claims is down to generally weaker consumer markets. Overall …