EA reshuffles
Electronic Arts (EA) says it will reorganise the video game publisher into four units, in an efficiency drive by its new chief executive, John Riccitiello, reports News.com.
Under the plan, EA will consist of units that focus on sports, casual games, the Sims franchise and other games. EA says the changes, which will not involve job losses, should help it save money at a time when the cost of developing a top-tier game can run up to $20 million.
Riccitiello, the company's former COO, left in 2004 and rejoined in April. He said last month he intends to realign the company and improve its ability to act quickly.
Wii for all
Nintendo has opened its blockbuster Wii game system to independent video-game developers for the first time, reports CNN Money.
Nintendo said it will let individuals and outside game studios create and sell downloadable Wii games with a tool called WiiWare. Gamers will be able to purchase the games through the console's Wii Shop channel starting in early 2008.
Perrin Kaplan, a Nintendo spokeswoman, says the game-creation kit is designed for people with at least some knowledge of computer programming. Developers can start designing games using a PC but must complete them on the Wii console.
Civilization comes to consoles
One of the most popular PC video game franchises will be coming to game consoles in 2008, with the release of the latest game in the Sid Meier's Civilization franchise, reports Daily Tech.
Similar to previous Civilization games, players will build empires, but with several new twists thrown in. Some of the improvements include "accessible maps and streamlined time scale for quicker gamers, intense combat, and constant action."
The latest game will include 16 civilisations, along with online play that includes integrated video and voice chat. "Civilization is one of the world's top selling PC game series, with more than eight million units sold, and continues to be recognised as one of the greatest franchises ever created," said Christoph Hartman, 2K Games president.
Share
