Technology

Posted on July 7, 2017 by staff

Codemasters developing top secret ‘video gaming world-first’

Technology

The game developer behind Micro Machines, Colin McRae Rally and Formula One titles claims it is working on a ground-breaking product never seen before in gaming.

But Codemasters game director Paul Rustchynsky told BusinessCloud the British company is intentionally holding its cards ‘very close to [its] chest’.

The company is renowned for its racing games, and he described the product as “something really exciting that no-one else has done before”.

The breakfast will hear about the UK’s proud history in gaming, where it is headed next and how games fit into a wider business and marketing context.

Prior to the event, Rustchynsky spoke about the strength of the industry in the UK, and his company’s long-term success – which began with Super Robin Hood back in 1985.

“In the UK we’ve been making games since the industry was born, and because of this we have a huge breadth of talent, experience and passion that is virtually unmatched.

“The gaming landscape has changed dramatically in recent years, with much greater expectations from players.

“And because of this we’ve been engaging and working directly with the community, involving them in the development & evolution of our products.”

He added: “What Codemasters has done is play to their strengths (racing), have clear goals & direction from management, and retain the talent which ultimately is what makes a company great.”

BusinessCloud’s event at The Foundry on Ordsall Lane runs from 8am to 10am.

It will explore how the region plays host to more than 600 game developers all striving for the next big thing in gaming – whether it be on powerful platforms such as the PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC, or the smartphones which have turned everyone into a potential gamer. Games are also being used in a variety of industries, including health and education.

Earlier this year Cheshire-based Playdemic was bought by TT Games, part of Warner Bros Interactive Entertainment, on the back of its success with free-to-play mobile games such as Golf Clash, which has been downloaded more than a million times.

Confirmed speakers:

  • Paul Gouge, CEO, Playdemic
  • Paul Rustchynsky, game director (new racing IP), Codemasters
  • Annie O’Toole, head of operations, Draw & Code and SwapBots
  • Greg Robinson, investor and board member, Boomdash Digital
  • Clayton Carpenter, programming supervisor, PlaygroundSquad
  • Cari Kirby, marketing manager, Team Cooper
  • Si Donbavand, development director, Fabrik Games