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

Western tech prowess puts Japanese game development in trouble, says Silent Hill producer

2K Marin working on new IP and co-productions with other in-house teams

Akira Yamaoka, the producer of Konami’s Silent Hill 5, has stated that he believes the future of Japanese games development is in trouble thanks to the advances made by developers in the West. Speaking to Game Developer magazine, and reported by QJ.net, Yamaoka stated: "Western development techniques are very advanced. …

Following the breaking news on this site last Friday , British ratings body the BBFC has now officially confirmed that it is apply for an official judicial review concerning the Video Appeals Committee’s backing of Rockstar’s appeal against the BBFC’s decision to ban the title from sale in the UK. …

There’s no arguing that Nintendo staged a remarkable recovery in 2007 to emerge as the overall gaming champions at the expense of rivals Microsoft, and in particular, Sony – but analyst firm Screen Digest says 2008 could prove to be the year of PS3. Citing the growing number of exclusive …

In the aftermath of Activision Blizzard’s emergence, Sega Europe boss Mike Hayes has told MCV that it could be the next publisher to snap up a rival. As Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games sped to the number one spot in the ChartTrack All Formats listings, Hayes hinted that …

WiiFit controller supported in new Namco skiing game

Another week, another Nintendo hardware drought – but retailers aren’t complaining, describing current demand for Wii and DS as ‘like nothing we’ve ever seen before.’ As parents continue to buy up any hardware possible ahead of Christmas, retail has seen both Wii and DS consoles sell out almost as quickly …

GAME’s sales have rocketed by a mighty 89.1 per cent in 2007 – and CEO Lisa Morgan says there’s more to come before the year is out. Like-for-like sales soared 44.1 per cent in the same period – the 45 weeks ending December 8th. We’re really pleased with the performance …

In a year that has seen GAME swoop for Gamestation, Activision snap up Bizarre and Warner acquire Traveller’s Tales, we’ve all had plenty to talk about. But last week’s Activision Blizzard deal topped the lot in every respect. In a single flex of its financial muscle, Vivendi has created a …