DIG London

Hello My Game Is: Event

2012-01-05T08:53:00.000-08:00

Hello My Game Is, is a great initiative by the gaming community of London, ON which brings together the developers and general public. With great keynote speaker from Digital Extremes, Big Blue Bubble, Antic Entertainment and Big Viking Games, you know it will be a great show. The details of the event are listed below including the website.

The goals for Hello My Game Is are:

To create a gaming culture in London, connecting the industry, students and fans of video games on a social level
To create a opportunity for small and independent game developers to showcase their games and get feedback
To give the industry better exposure to students and emerging talents
To achieve those goals, we’re starting with a series of evening events. Each event will feature a 15-20 minute keynote presentation, followed by five minute slots for anyone to speak about anything gaming-related, from favorite memories to games they are developing and everything in between.

That will be followed up the chance for people to play games, showcase their own games or apps, learn more about careers in the industry, or just chat with like-minded Londoners.

Hello My Game Is is presented in partnership by GamerPops, Games Day Podcast and TechAlliance.

Website: http://hellomygameis.ca/
Contact: greg.picken@gamerpops.com

Dark Incursion - Review

2011-12-22T12:50:00.000-08:00

Dark Incursion is a 2D side scrolling game created by Big Blue Bubble a London ON developer.

The main character of the game is Anya an underground resistance fighter. The art style and the gameplay mechanics of the game remind me of games such as Metroid. The Dark Incursion has brought a much needed uplift to the graphics of such games. Many gamers have been wanting to play games such as Metroid and Castlevania on mobile devices and Dark Incursion delivers that gameplay style with great graphic designs.

In terms of game mechanics Anya the main character uses fuses which can be filled with an array of improvements. Which help you improve your range, defense, speed, and adding powers to your weapons. Dark Incursion makes the player use weapons in a very interesting way. The player must use the powers to open certain areas of the maps.

The controls of the game are a little finicky. The controls are a little sensitive and on occasion the inputs will lag, causing you to repeat that section once again. The game makes up for these issues by providing a very fun and addicting game.

About the author: Vikas Sharma is a video game fanatic, always looking for the next big thing in the gaming industry. A fan of gaming ever since SNES to the next gen consoles, Vikas is a member of the DIG 2011 team. Vikas enjoys different styles of game play and games and is excited by the amount of progress he sees happening in the gaming world.

DIG is looking for Reviewers

2011-12-02T08:43:00.000-08:00

Are you interested in video games? Always in line to get the first copy of your favourite game? Always giving opinions to your friends about which games to buy?

Then you might be interested in this offer. DIG is looking for video game reviewers, gameplay/commentary creators, and montage creators. This is a volunteer position, but can provide great experience and get you started in your video game career. We will post the videos to our YouTube page and post the reviews to our blog. If you are someone interested in this field email us with what games you specialize in and play, and get started in creating those REVIEWS!!!

Contact us through email: vsharma@london.ca

Reasons to attend DIG!!

2011-10-20T12:20:00.000-07:00

There are many reasons to be at DIG, but here is our list of just a few Awesome Reasons for you to attend:

1.Newly added Web Developers Stream:

New to DIG 2011, the Web Developer stream connects web developers across all platforms for networking, knowledge sharing, and workshops on emerging trends and technologies. The Gamification of the Web is the theme we will be exploring in collaboration with some of Canada's leading online game developers including Antic Entertainment and many more.

2.Explode Code

Features a series of deeply technical presentations focused on practical applications in a variety of languages. Code samples and a hacker lab space provide the opportunity to apply new ideas and techniques and collaborate with other developers throughout the day

3.DIGX

Hang out and play Canadian made games for console, PC, web, and handheld devices with the people who made them! DIGx is an interactive space for DIG delegates and video game fans to level and lounge.

4.Keynote

The DIG Gala Dinner pulls together industry leaders in digital interactive media and complimentary sectors. Join executives, publishers, developers, technology service providers and digital interactive media industry leaders for our annual Gala Dinner. The keynote address will be by Volker Hirsch (Director Business Development RIM)

5.Big Blue Bubble Game Competition

Drop by the Big Blue Bubble Competition design booth at DIG 2011 to see the work in progress. The finished game design will be announced at the DIG Dinner on Wednesday, November 16th!

6.VIP AFTER PARTY!!

This is an industry party exclusive for those who purchase the full conference pass or by invite only. Host bar until mid-night, munchies, and entertainment provided.

7.Game Career Presentation

Join community high school students while they ask college, university, and industry leaders about the game industry and what it takes to begin a career in game development.

8.OMDC Mini-MBA

DIG and OMDC have organized a half-day intensive mini-MBA. Taking place on day two of DIG, the Mini MBA will provide seminars to equip Ontario’s independent game developers with practical business knowledge that they can immediately implement in their studios.

DIG in the news

2011-10-17T12:10:00.000-07:00

DIG 2011 has been featured in a recent blog post on GamingUnion.net. The post compares DIG to other gaming events and commends DIG on the unique business insight that is tied into the conference. The blog explains how DIG uses industry speakers to equip attendees with information on succeeding in the gaming industry.

This year’s conference will feature additional business support by offering a Mini MBA event combining workshops and presentations. Participants will receive practical business knowledge that they can immediately implement in their studios. Topics will include Finance, Marketing, Human Resources, Systems, and Markets.

GamingUnion.net is a comprehensive video games resource. The site covers news, reviews and exclusive features about the gaming industry.

The full article can be found here.

DIG Sponsored Gaming Tournament

2011-08-03T12:33:00.000-07:00

DIG is hosting a gaming tournament on Saturday August 6th from 6-9pm, in the Unlab at the Research Park. The tournament is a lead up event to the Digital Interactive Gaming Conference (DIG) in London, Ontario, held annually by the LEDC. This event will be a competition and a place for gamers to meet up, play some games and talk about gaming.

Anyone is invited to come in and participate.

You can find more details here: http://digx.eventbrite.com/

Antic Entertainment – Platoonz: A Review

2011-08-02T12:07:00.000-07:00

Antic Entertainment has recently released a new game called Platoonz. The London, Ontario based company is known to make quirky and fun games for both the casual and hard-core gamer.

Their recent release, Platoonz, follows the same pattern, yet differentiates itself in game play and customization. The game takes the player on an adventure as a soldier building his force to combat evil. The mechanics of the game are very simple to follow; you must build your army and create new buildings to upgrade your force. The side scrolling game offers many different types of challenges from harder and stronger enemies as the game progresses, to always making you guess as to how many soldiers to make.

What’s great is that the game comes with a very in depth and easy to follow tutorial. The tutorial covers every aspect of the game’s mechanics and goes through a trial map to cover the game play.

Another fun fact: the dialogue in the game will make you chuckle and keep you very entertained. Platoonz is a an enjoyable game that’s easy to play. Just kick back and enjoy!

About the author: Vikas Sharma is a video game fanatic, always looking for the next big thing in the gaming industry. A fan of gaming ever since SNES to the next gen consoles, Vikas is a member of the DIG 2011 team. Vikas enjoys different styles of game play and games and is excited by the amount of progress he sees happening in the gaming world.

DIG Introduces web stream

2011-07-29T08:33:00.000-07:00

DIG is introducing a new stream to its already stellar line up of content and speakers.

DIG 2011 will feature the web developer’s stream, inviting web developers, digital media specialists, and all content creators to participate.

Web development is an essential part of any business and organization. With an increasing amount of web development and web marketing companies setting up shop in London Ontario, it is an essential part of the city’s business world. There are many similarities between video game development and web development. Many similar philosophies can be used in both fields. DIG 2011 will provide a meeting ground for both video game and web developers.

DIG is also inviting those interested in these two streams of work to attend the conference. There will be workshops and a chance to network with folks who’ve already established careers in these fields.

Save the Date: DIG 2011, November 16/17 @ the London Convention Centre

For more information, click here

Summer Pwnage 2

2011-07-28T12:20:00.000-07:00

DIG was at Summer Pwnage 2 last night, an event hosted by the great people at The Games Day Podcast and Gamerpops.

We excitedly played some old retro games and participated in a Mario Tennis N64 competition. More importantly, we had the opportunity to interview Mathew Hoy from The Games Day Podcast

Check out the interview.

Big Blue Bubble: Burn The Rope

2011-07-28T08:31:00.000-07:00

Big Blue Bubble Inc. announced yesterday that their massive hit game, Burn the Rope, is coming to WiiWare. With over 5 million downloads on the iPhone, Burn the Rope is sure to tear up the scene on Nintendo’s WiiWare download service.

Players can now enjoy the game from the comfort of their couches, and see the rope burn in high resolution graphics.

I recently had the chance to see the game first hand and experience the graphics and the gameplay. The video quality is amazing. Playing with unique controls, adapted into the Wii,the game handles smoothly and plays very well.

Burn the Ropeuses a tricky game play mechanic in that the fire only goes upwards. It is up to the player to move the rope using the nun chuck to keep the flame alive. As you move through the game you will encounter many different kinds of bugs each with their own style of powers. Some change the color of the flame while others shoot out string to aid you in reaching higher levels of the game.

Burn the Rope has the following features:
• Over 100 different levels
• Fun and addictive gameplay
• High resolution graphics
• Easy to jump in and play, yet still allowing he hard-core gamer competition
• Fun for gamers of all backgrounds

Burn the Rope was released in the North America today so download your copy now.

About the author: Vikas Sharma is a video game fanatic, always looking for the next big thing in the gaming industry. A fan of gaming ever since SNES to the next gen consoles, Vikas is a member of the DIG 2011 team. Vikas enjoys different styles of game play and games and is excited by the amount of progress he sees happening in the gaming world.

The Partnership Between Dark Horse and Bioware

2011-07-25T11:42:00.000-07:00

Dark Horse comic book publisher announced that they will be publishing a new book, Mass Effect: Invasion, the latest installment in the comic book series. The graphic novel will be released on October 19. It will tie directly into Mass Effect 3, which will be released on March 6, 2012.

Mass Effect: Invasion is an upcoming four-issue comic mini-series that will follow Aria T'Loak, Pirate Queen of Omega as her station comes under attack from a new threat unleashed by the human-survivalist organization Cerberus.

The series will be written by BioWare lead writer Mac Walters, scripted by John Jackson Miller, and drawn by Omar Francia, with contributions from cover designer Massimo Carnevale. Mass Effect: Invasion will show why the planet of Omega is important, and how it is a large part of the game.

Invasion takes place between Mass Effect 2 and 3, bridging the gap between the two games.

Dark Horse also recently discussed the release of the Old Republic comic series, Lost Suns. This story follows two previously released Old-Republic comic books about a spy from the republic who is the son of a Jedi grandmaster, but not a Jedi himself.

The panel then began discussing the relationship between BioWare and Dark Horse. The two teams discussed how the relationship between them is autonomous yet they both have the ability to collaborate with each other. The panel, which took place at Comic-Con in San Diego, was comprised of Jeremy Atkins, public relations of Dark Horse and Dave Marshall BioWare editor.

Dark Horse said that the partnership has given the gaming community and the graphic novel community a place to join and collaborate together. It has opened more doors for both communities.

Source: Gamespot

Resistance is taking their Battles to the Web

2011-07-22T10:31:00.000-07:00

News from Comic-Con 2011: The developers of Resistance have decided to take their competition-based battles to the web with a strategy based game.

In a panel discussion that involved the developers discussing the past, present, and future of Resistance, the news of the hour was the move to a web based strategy game. In the new web-based game players will be able to choose sides between human and Chimera. The players will use common strategy elements and PVP battles to win a persistent battle online.

According to the team, Global Resistance will utilize a player’s Facebook and PlayStation account. Players will be able to utilize Facebook for friend invites and status updates and their PlayStation account for the actual playing of the game.

With this new implementation of online play, Resistance 3 will be able to reach a larger audience. This is just one way the team has shown how much they have grown from the first Resistance as a PlayStation launch title

DIG and Digifest Partnership

2011-07-21T08:08:00.000-07:00

The DIG team is extremely excited to announce an amazing new partnership with Digifest.

Digifest, much like DIG, is a festival celebrating innovation and digital creativity. Digifest, coming out of Toronto, Ontario, is an annual event where emerging designers, technologists, and artists come together to show off their presentation and outstanding demos.

Digifest is a one stop shop for all your Digital Interactive needs. Digifest shows off everything from gaming, to the newest releases in technology. One of the biggest annual events in Toronto, Digifest has the ability to carry live streams and bring in amazing speakers at the head of their industry.

Offering prizes, challenging competitions, and the newest in technology, Digifest is a must see for all DIG lovers.

Slash and Burn Management Style not Favourable

2011-07-20T11:40:00.000-07:00

Laura Fryer, VP and General Manager of WB games, is saying that “slash and burn” management styles are harming the industry.

Speaking at an industry session, Fryer compared the management styles of creative studios with that of farms. She stated that many studios will hire a team, make them work until they burn out, and then suddenly drop the team.

Fryer instead urged developers to keep their team well maintained and to allow the creative juices to flow freely. To complete the task, she urges developers to allow the team to function by itself, allowing them to work at their own pace. After all, every team is different, and works at its own pace.

Fryer also suggested that game developers hold a post-mortem at the end of a project and at the end of each milestone. This way they can spot problems that come up before the development of the game is complete, giving the designers enough time to fix the problem they have created.

After all of this, Fryer still recommends there be a timeline so that people are held accountable. But remember, the designers are still adults and should not be looked at like children. Management should not be standing over designers’ shoulders at all times.

Source: Gamasutra

Paper Munchers - Review

2011-07-19T06:46:00.000-07:00

Paper Munchers is a casual and very addicting game developed for the iPhone by Big Blue Bubble, based in London Ontario.

The objective of the game is to get the smaller monsters into the mouths of the bigger monsters. In order to complete the task the players must tap the screen which triggers a bomb and moves the monsters around the screen into the mouths of the bigger beasts. The bombs can be used at any time, even while the monsters are in flight. The munchers have a certain colour associated to them and if the player manages to get the same monster into the mouth of the muncher the player is awarded with an extra bomb. This comes in quite handy because each level only begins with three bombs.

There are two types of bombs that a player can use. One is permanent and is refreshed before every level. The player is given three of these. The other is temporary and can be purchased in game via in game credit or with real money.

The design of Paper Munchers is quite pleasing. The style is very playful and silly. The audio for the game is also very good. The munching effects created by the paper munchers always make me chuckle.

In my opinion Paper Munchers is a silly yet very entertaining game. You are sure to put many hours into this addicting game which has 75 levels. If you haven’t already, be sure to get the trial version of the game. Once hooked you will definitely want to purchase the actual game.

About the author: Vikas Sharma is a video game fanatic, always looking for the next big thing in the gaming industry. A fan of gaming ever since SNES to the next gen consoles, Vikas is a member of the DIG 2011 team. Vikas enjoys different styles of game play and games and is excited by the amount of progress he sees happening in the gaming world.

New Jobs Created in the Gaming Industry

2011-07-18T10:51:00.000-07:00

Ontario is helping Gameloft Inc, a “leading international publisher and developer of downloadable video games” (Interactive Ontario), to open a foremost digital arts studio in Toronto. The new facility will be able to employ up to 205 individuals.

With the support of the province the company will be able leap in front of the competition in one of the fastest growing markets. With 300 games already available through Gameloft, the company will continue to create digital games designed specifically for mobile devices.

Partnering with business is a key part of the McGuinty government. The government plans to expand this industry and provide more jobs for Ontario families.

Ontario’s Interactive Digital media tax credit is attracting many game development businesses to Ontario. These tax credits were a major factor inin Gameloft choosing to locate itself in Ontario.

Source: Interactive Ontario

Junk Battles – Review

2011-07-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

Junk Battles is built around RPG style game play. The creators have produced a unique system which incorporates quests and PVP battles, in a robot battle game. At first, I thought the game would be short and quick, with a racing and fighting style of game play. To my surprise, the game play was more like a RPG with similar MMORPG style tasks like tournaments and PVP battles.

In my opinion, game falls short on a few aspects. With repetitive music and graphics, Junk Battles needs to improve on its overall design.
The game battle style is more interesting; with timed attacks and customization the battles become more enjoyable. The added difficulty of measuring the amount of time for the weapon to be used adds an extra level of difficulty.

The game action stays pretty much the same, but with customization and new weapons Junk Battles keeps adding more levels and advancement.
In the end, the game is fun to play with the PVP battles and customization. If you are into RPGs and cars, I would suggest you try this game out.

About the Author: Vikas Sharma is a video game fanatic, always looking for the next big thing in the gaming industry. A fan of gaming ever since SNES to the next gen consoles, Vikas is a member of the DIG 2011 team. Vikas enjoys different styles of game play and games and is excited by the amount of progress he sees happening in the gaming world.

How To Choose an MMORPG?

2011-07-14T06:41:00.000-07:00

Every gamer has played at least one MMORPG (Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Game). As a gamer myself, I have played many MMORPGs, putting in lots of time, and sometimes even getting a little addicted. It is the world of the game which traps a player and makes them want to play nonstop. The fact that the game actually never ends adds to the hours of gaming, not to mention, a lot of money spent on energy drinks.

In the online gaming world there are two routes a gamer can take: the F2P (free to play) MMORPG or the P2P (Pay to Play) MMORPG. There are a lot of really great F2P games, much better than the P2P games, but having a P2P adds the extra support of admins and GMs overseeing and making changes to the game on a consistent basis. Many MMO players jump from game to game constantly looking for a game that fits their style and has a community that they would like to join. I have come up with a list of things that might make it easier for gamers to choose a MMORPG that fits them just right.

Game Story

The story and content of a game are the main things that attract a gamer to an MMO. Make sure as a gamer you know what kind of player you are and what kind of stories you like. You can play a sci-fi game, a medieval style game, or a super-hero themed game, and the list goes on. You need to research does the story follow the gameplay and design you like. Also does the game have the content you want? Does it have PVP (Player vs. Player) and does it have raiding, or what is the levelling for your character like. These are things a player must consider before making a decision.

Mechanics

Once you have found a game with the story and content you like, now’s the time to look at game mechanics. This part requires a lot of research. Yes games do require research to be done by the gamer. A player should look at how a game balances while you are trying to play it. Is it very unbalanced, meaning that a certain class dominates and can win the PVE and PVP battles? Is everyone in the game going after the same health and manna points and armour or do you have variety to choose whether to be pure strength or pure magic or a hybrid and still have a chance to build a strong character. A game should have balanced characters and builds so not to have an unfair advantage for a certain class.

Design

Be sure to select a game which has a design that is appealing to you and can run on your computer. Many games look amazing and are visually appealing but will not play on your computer. A person should always look at if the game is something they can stare at for hours on end and if it’s playable on their PC.

Investment

As a player you need to know that you will be investing a lot of time into the game. I am talking about grinding (not on the dance floor) through a game to level your character. Some MMOs have a very long and arduous grinding process. They all make it seem easy at the beginning where it can take a day or less to get to LVL 50, but once you hit a certain mark, it can take 5 days to go up one level. This gets very aggravating. If you are a person who feels accomplished after reaching a higher level after 5 days (like me) then pick a game that will allow you to have that sense of accomplishment.

Identity

As you are playing the game it makes it easier to go through the long and hard process by identifying yourself with your character. If you buy the certain style of gear to make the type of character you like, it makes it a lot easier for you as the player to continue playing and having fun. Many games have introduced class and job platforms where a player can be a rogue and a craftsman. These sorts of things add extra excitement to the game.

All in all, research before you pick which game to play, and make sure you have the time to play it. While you may try not to get addicted to the game, it happens to the best of us.

Playstation Hack - Might Have Helped

2011-07-13T08:09:00.000-07:00

The PlayStation Network is fully functioning for everyone in all parts of the world. But with this past attack, PlayStation was hit quite hard. Sony has been trying everything to get back customers who lost faith in their security. As a result, they introduced the “Welcome Back” package for their customers. It includes 4 video game titles for the PS3 (Infamous, LittleBigPlanet, Dead Nation and WipeOut).

However, the hack on Sony may have done more good than bad. According to the EEDAR, all four “Welcome Back” titles were in the top 25 of consumer reported title acquisitions in June 2011. Moreover 17% of IGN users indicated they acquired a PSN digital account in June 2011 which is up from 13% before the system hack. Not only has this increased PSN digital accounts, but the program also boosted the sales of PS3 games in general.

PlayStation’s share among the next generation console has also increased to 44% from 40%.

Ultimately, the hack is showing to be a good thing for Sony, increasing the amount of ownership in households.

Souce: http://www.industrygamers.com/news/playstation-network-welcome-back-program-boosted-ps3-sales/

Batman Arkham City - Preview

2011-07-11T12:46:00.000-07:00

Batman Arkham City is the sequel to the number 1 rated game of the year: Batman Arkham Asylum.

The story of Arkham City takes place 1 year after Arkham Asylum. Quincy Sharp has taken credit for stopping Joker and has made himself mayor of Gotham. Since the prison and the asylum are not in functioning condition he has bought out a part of Gotham city to house the thugs. Hugo Strange a psychiatrist is given the opportunity to oversee the city but seems to have his own agenda. Batman as usual is worried about the city’s situation getting out of hand.

The release of Batman Arkham City is dark, quite similar to the animated movie Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker. The game carries all of the darkness and action associated with the original Batman franchise.

Arkham City will feature the same style of action adventure game play as its predecessor. The gamer will be able to play both Catwoman and Batman. Catwoman will have a more acrobatic style of game play while Batman’s fighting techniques will remain as in Batman Arkham Asylum.

I have been looking forward to this game for a very long time. Both Batman Arkham City and Batman Arkham Asylum provide die-hard fans with a fresh outlook on the Batman series.

About the Author: Vikas Sharma is a video game fanatic, always looking for the next big thing in the gaming industry. A fan of gaming ever since SNES to the next gen consoles, Vikas is a member of the DIG 2011 team. Vikas enjoys different styles of game play and games and is excited by the amount of progress he sees happening in the gaming world.

Call Of Duty’s 1 Million Dollar Tournament

2011-07-08T06:34:00.000-07:00

Call of Duty will be holding a hefty tournament with a top prize of 1 million dollars an opportunity for the greatest teams to showcase their talent. Not only that, but the event will also showcase footage of Modern Warfare 3, the new upcoming game in the Modern Warfare franchise.

Call of Duty XP is the largest event ever to be held for the franchise. The two day event over the Labour Day long weekend will host a live video of Modern Warfare 3 multiplayer and allow for attendees to get their hands dirty with the Spec Ops multiplayer. The tournament will also feature Call of Duty Elite, the new online service built only for Call of Duty.

Perhaps the greatest draw of the tournament will be a gaming competition with the grand prize of one million dollars.

The tournament will be a 32-team, single elimination bracket competition with 4 players per team. Teams will have options to qualify for the event prior to the competition and will also have a chance to qualify at the actual event itself.

For more information and to register go to www.callofduty.com and follow the directions.

News Article: http://bit.ly/lYrjMG

Darkness 2 - from comic to game

2011-07-07T07:04:00.000-07:00

The Darkness, a lucrative comic franchise, is now being turned into a game franchise. No longer are comic book franchises left just for the movie industry alone, the gaming world is also taking a piece of the pie.

Digital Extremes, a London, Ontario based company is creating the game which will be published by 2K games. Digital Extremes is mimicking the art design of the comic, staying true to the design features, while also adding a few fantasy elements.

The sequel to the first Darkness game takes place two years after the events of the first game. The developers are using elements true to the story of the comic book, with creators of the game making few adjustments to the adaptation.

Due to the complicated design features of the characters in the original graphic novel series, the developers are changing the style and look of the character. This makes it a little easier for the outside audience not familiar with the comic book to get accustomed to the story.

After the release of The Darkness sales for the comic also increased dramatically. And publishers are hoping the same will happen after the release of The Darkness 2.

With this increase in sales many comic books will be looking to go into the gaming industry and take their own books into video games.

Article Link: http://bit.ly/oU6qjm

Big Blue Bubble's Burn the Rope iPhone Reaches #1 in more than 60 Countries and Paper Munchers is Released on iTunes

2011-06-21T12:53:00.000-07:00

Burn the Rope iPhone reached #1 free app in more than 60 countries, generating more than two million downloads in 48 hours.

Plus, the Paper Munchers are here and they're hungry! And it's up to you to make sure they get fed!

Use the explosive power of your touch to match deliciously cute monsters with the ferocious mouths of the Paper Munchers. Paper Munchers gives you an arsenal of bombs to launch those delicious monsters into the jaws of the malicious maws!

Explode your way through five worlds and 75 levels of munching mayhem! Paper Munchers is packed full of explosive physics, unique characters, and 5 Worlds with a whole feast of new content to come!

It's a monster eat monster world!

Features:
• 75 explosive levels with more on the way!
• 5 Beautiful Paper Craft Worlds of nom nom nomming!
• Tight physics based gameplay!
• Game Center Achievements!
• Tons of explosions and carnivorous action!

Active Gaming Alternatives Exhibit Healthy Potential

2011-06-17T07:11:00.000-07:00

Lawson Researchers Examine Active Video Games for Childhood Obesity Prevention

17% of children ages 2-19 are affected by youth obesity. The rate has quadrupled since the 1980s. What’s more, the repercussions are frightening: hypertension, type II diabetes, fatty liver disease, and a host of other “adult” illnesses are now emerging in children.

With research suggesting that 83% of American youth have a t least one gaming console in their bedroom, many attribute these growing risks and growing waistlines to the popularity of screen-based activities.

However, I-THINK researchers at Lawson Hleath Research Institute are now suggesting video games may provide a strong platform to promote youth physical activity and nutrition.

With the emergence of games like Dance-Dance-Revolution and the Wii system, gaming entertainment has shifted towards more active alternatives, and the I-THINK team members believe this growing popularity may be leveraged to target obesity prevention and self-care.

To determine the healthy potential, researchers at I-THINK conducted a systematic literature review of active video games. Between 1998 and 2011, they identified a total of 34 studies across two categories: physically active video games, or “exergames,” and interactive video games that don’t necessarily include a physical activity component.

Although the metrics used in each study were different, the I-THINK team consistently noted that children playing active video games experienced a light to moderate increase in physical activity. Increases in exercise expenditure, heart rate, and step counts were also noted, as well as decreases in waist size, weight, and BMI.

Digital Extremes to Receive $2.5 million Grant from the Province

2011-04-15T08:12:00.000-07:00

London's Digital Extremes will receive a $2.5 million grant from the Province of Ontario.

The grant will allow the London-based video game studio to create 30 new jobs and protect 53 existing jobs, with more than 150 people currently working at the studio.

Digital Extremes is developing a "3D Evolution Game Engine," that automates programming work required to create a new 3D video game. The technology will reduce the time and cost involved in bringing new games to market.

"We believe the 3D Evolution Game Engine we're developing here in London will provide an enhanced platform allowing other video game developers to fully leverage the creative talents of their team. This investment signals an exciting new phase for our company," Michael Schmalz, President, Digital Extremes.

London’s Digital Extremes Celebrates Launch of Homefront

2011-03-22T12:54:00.000-07:00

London video game developer, Digital Extremes, launched its new PC game, Homefront, with a party held at 29 Park on Talbot St., last week.

Homefront is a first person shooter video game with a narrative that allows players to walk in the shoes of resistance fighters in 2027 America, who are trying to topple the Greater Korean Republic occupation of the United States of America.

THQ Inc. hired Digital Extremes to bring Homefront to the PC platform in the best form possible.

375,000 copies of the military-themed video game were sold on the first day of sales in North America.

Frank De Lise, executive producer at THQ, commented that “PC players will be able to set up and host Homefront dedicated servers and enjoy additional community features including clan support. We believe the core PC first-person-shooter fan will really appreciate these features, which are becoming increasingly rare.”

http://www.thelondoner.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=3038496

Canada’s Digital Media Opportunities Touted at GDC San Francisco

2011-03-02T06:04:00.000-08:00

International entertainment companies are flocking to Ontario’s collaboratively linked technology regions of London, Toronto, Waterloo Region, Niagara and Ottawa. At the 2011 Game Developers Conference in San Francisco, executives from Ontario's talent-rich tech cities promoted Canada’s “pixel-perfect business conditions” for expanding digital media companies.

With 22 universities and colleges pumping out more than 18,000 graduates per year, Ontario’s Technology Corridor (OTC) has a deep talent pool to draw from. Graduates come from 174 specialized digital media programs including 3D animation, film studies, advanced computer programming, math, and hardware engineering.

Canada pushed past the UK last year as the world’s third largest centre for videogame development talent, in part because of Ontario’s deep talent pool and targeted tax incentives.

Ontario’s fast-growing entertainment and creative cluster produces $15 billion in revenue and over 200,000 jobs, contributing $12.7 billion to the province’s GDP.

Ontario's Media Development Corporation (OMDC) is the central catalyst for the province's cultural media cluster - to date the OMDC IDM Fund has contributed $7.7 million to support 76 projects with budgets totalling $32.7 million - and continues to offer the following incentives, including:

• Ontario Interactive Digital Media Tax Credit -- refunds 35-40 per cent of eligible production costs

• Ontario Computer Animation and Special Effects Tax Credit -- refunds 20 per cent of labour costs

• OMDC Interactive Digital Media Fund -- up to $150,000 in project production funding, up to a maximum of 50% of the project budget. So far in 2011, the OMDC has announced $2.0 million in funding support.

Big Blue Bubble Nominated for Three Canadian Video Game Awards

2011-02-23T11:37:00.000-08:00

Big Blue Bubble 's Burn The Rope (released in December, 2010) has been nominated for three Canadian Video Game Awards: Best Game on the Go, Best Game Design and Best Visual Arts.

The hugely popular iOS game Burn The Rope is a gravity-based puzzle that requires players to burn ropes in different entanglements. The catch is ropes can only burn upwards. This leaves gamers tilting and turning to keep the flame alive.

With over 60 high profile games in its portfolio, Big Blue Bubble is one of Canada’s leading video game developers. Each of the company’s three divisions (Mobile, Console and Casual) is dedicated to making the best possible games by combining innovative designers with top calibre artists and industry leading programmers.

Big Blue Bubble is a midsized employer and a key player in London's digital media sector.

Description: In Burn The Rope users have the freedom to set fire without any fire hazard or need for a fire extinguisher. The game involves a mix of strategic planning, thinking ahead, coordination and the ability to stay in deep focus. Users have to feed the fire and burn as much rope as they can in each level to progress.

The challenge is that fire only burns upwards, leaving players to tilt and turn their iPhones to keep the flame alive.

The game features 80 devilishly tricky levels with polished graphics and mesmerizing fire effects. Bugs that crawl along the rope spice things up demonstrating different reactions to the flame from level to level. Ants change the colour of the flame so that users could burn different colored ropes, and the spider shoots out a web bridge providing access to the parts of the level that were beyond players’ reach before.

For more information check out: http://bit.ly/f3eKxw

London's Antic Entertainment Awarded $1 Million in Development Funding

2011-02-04T07:39:00.000-08:00

London’s Antic Entertainment will share more than $1 million in development funding with one2tribe, a Polish development studio, from Nexon America’s Nexon iNitiative. The funding will be used to create new games for Nexon’s worldwide publishing network.

The Nexon iNitiative is a million dollar program started in the spring of 2010 to identify and fund new and innovative video game projects. The program received 115 submissions from developers in 26 countries. After reviewing all submissions, Antic Entertainment and one2tribe were selected as recipients of development funding from the Nexon iNitiative.

Antic Entertainment was founded in 2008 by Fredrik Liljegren, Mark Mikulec and Jeff Evans. Antic Entertainment specializes in developing and publishing casual games for core gamers and will be developing an unannounced social media game for Nexon.

"We're honoured to be collaborating with one of the gaming heavy weights of the world," said Mikulec, co-founder and technical director of Antic Entertainment. "Most people don't know that Nexon invented the business model that most social games use today. Combined with Antic's AAA development experience, we are working together on a title that is truly unique in the social gaming space. I can't wait for people to play it."

LEDC to Represent London DIG Industry at Digital North Seminar

2011-01-20T08:23:00.000-08:00

The London Economic Development Corporation’s (LEDC) Larry MacKinnon, Director of Business Development, Technology, will represent London’s DIG industry at the upcoming “Digital North – Creative Opportunities in Canada” seminar on Thursday, January 27th.

Hosted by the Consulate General of New York, the seminar and networking reception has been designed to strengthen ties between the digital media industry in the New York metro area and Canada.

"The LEDC is excited for the opportunity to represent London's DIG community at the Digital North seminar," said MacKinnon. "We have successfully worked with the Consulate General of New York in the past."

The Digital North seminar will showcase Canadian talent, opportunities and partnerships to New York metro area digital media executives. The one-hour seminar will highlight the differences and parallels between Canada and the Untied States’ digital media environment. The event will also include an overview of Canadian tax incentives and government programs available to companies with international expansion plans.

Industry executives will be given a platform to network and build their cross-border contacts at the reception following the seminar. MacKinnon will be present, pitching opportunities for growth and investment in our city.

“The objectives of the seminar are to create links between Canada and the United States’ industry and to create inward investment opportunities for the Canadian market”, said Karen Kennedy, Consul and Head of Investment at the Canadian Consulate, New York. “Information exchanges and networking forums like the Digital North seminar are excellent ways for U.S. and Canadian companies to interact and explore potential partnerships and opportunities.”

The program caters to companies in the digital media industry ranging from gaming software to animation and post-production film and special effects companies. The content of the seminar will focus on industry-centric topics as well as business information relevant to the digital media industry sector. Some of the featured speakers include Richard Bendis of Innovation America, Tracey Jennings of Pricewaterhouse Coopers, Ricardo Curtis, founder and president of both House of Cool Studios and Red Rover, and Jason Altman of Ubisoft and Longtail Studios.

London’s Big Blue Bubble to Develop for Nintendo 3DS

2011-01-14T09:24:00.000-08:00

London video game developer Big Blue Bubble is bursting onto the 3-D scene. Big Blue Bubble will develop two new titles for the much anticipated Nintendo 3DS. The company’s recent launch Burn the Rope, currently sitting at the number two spot in the US and Canadian App Store, will be one, as well as an unnamed hack and slash style game, which is currently in production.

The hugely popular iOS game Burn the Rope is a gravity-based puzzle that requires players to burn ropes in different entanglements. The catch is ropes can only burn upwards. This leaves gamers tilting and turning to keep the flame alive.

“The game involves a mix of strategic planning, thinking ahead, coordination and the ability to stay in deep focus,” explains founder and CEO Damir Slogar. “… It will be on Nintendo 3DS and next generational virtual consoles by the end of 2011.”

The yet unnamed hack and slash game with side-scrolling is set to take place in an alternate reality amid an industrial revolution and a world war, in the late 1800’s.

With over 60 high profile games in its portfolio, Big Blue Bubble Inc. is one of Canada’s leading video game developers. Each of the company’s three divisions (Mobile, Console and Casual) is dedicated to making the best possible games by combining innovative designers with top caliber artists and industry leading programmers.

For the complete story click here:

http://3ds.nintendolife.com/news/2011/01/big_blue_bubble_bursting_onto_the_3ds_scene_with_two_upcoming_titles

Student-2-Business: Connect with London's Digital Interactive Gaming Community

2011-01-11T07:13:00.000-08:00

The 4th Annual Student-2-Business Networking Conference, taking place Thursday, January 27th, will connect emerging talent with London’s business community and professionals from seven leading industries.

With the digital interactive gaming industry continuing to prosper and grow in London, the importance of talent retention and atrraction is paramount. As a thriving business sector, it is imperative that the game development community come out and support such an event.

The goal of the conference is to engage highly skilled students from the University of Western Ontario, Fanshawe College and surrounding professional schools so graduates consider London as a place to live and work.

Each year during convocation over 13,000 students graduate from post-secondary institutions in London. These students have spent a minimum of three years in the Forest City. Some are looking forward to starting their careers around the globe, but many would welcome the opportunity to begin their careers right here.

DIG plays a vital role in helping our students build networks and make personal and business connections here in London.

This is not a job fair, it is an opportunity to meet the best and the brighest from top educational institutions, but we won't stop you from scouting for talent if that is what you want to do!

Jason Della Rocca DIG Keynote and Blog

2010-11-29T07:01:00.000-08:00

Jason Della Rocca taught game developers the importance of failure at the DIG 2010 Game Developers Dinner. Aptly timed, Della Rocca gave his speech following dinner and a few glasses of wine giving his presentation an air of authenticity as he struggled with drawing straight lines on his tabloid. The audience appreciated his casual candor and ability to relate the game development process to broader processes of innovation.

Check out Jason's blog and photos of DIG2010
http://www.realitypanic.com/archives/453

Sponsor Profile: Tech Alliance

2010-11-16T12:17:00.000-08:00

Tech Alliance are a company aimed to empower London and Southwestern Ontario's technology sector. They prepare today's entrepreneurs to launch new ventures, provide education and networking opportunities to accelerate business growth for small-to-medium enterprises, and serve over 150 members as advocates for Southwestern Ontario's thriving technology, life-sciences, and advanced manufacturing companies. Working in conjunction with the prestigious Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario, Tech Alliance offers a host of innovative programs to get local minds both informed and motivated, including in depth entrepreneurial workshops, their Speaker Series of seminars, their Breakfast Club, and their annual 60 second pitch contest. Tech Alliance represents an invaluable resource to furthering the growth of digital media locally and we are elated to have them participate in this years DIG Conference!

Speaker Profile: Vikas Gupta

2010-11-15T13:36:00.000-08:00

Vikas Gupta is the CEO and President of TransGaming Technologies. Vikas leads TransGaming's strategic endeavours and has negotiated some of the company's most strategic agreements with customers such as Electronic Arts, Activision, Turner Broadcasting, Ubisoft. TransGaming Inc. is a leader in the development of unique software products that facilitate the deployment and distribution of games across multiple platforms.

TransGaming's continued success is fueled by: Cider, a product that enables PC games on the exploding Mac market; Cedega, a product that enables PC games for the Linux market; GameTree, TransGaming's comprehensive suite of Mac gaming products and services for retail and online game releases; SwiftShader, a proprietary ultra high-speed software 3D rendering product which exploits the move to multi-core CPUs and the convergence of CPU and GPU technologies; TransGaming's Development Studio, creating original video game content.

TransGaming's customers include some of the largest and most influential content creators around the world ranging from EA, Ubisoft, Activision, NCSoft, CCP, Oberon Media, just to name a few. TransGaming also has strong partnerships with Apple, Intel, AMD, Nvidia. With an undeniable passion for video games and unsurpassed technologies, TransGaming has worked on some of the biggest video game franchises on the planet ranging from The Sims 3, SPORE, Prince of Persia, Shaun White Snowboarding, Kung Fu Panda, City of Heroes, and many more.

In addition to his passion for TransGaming, Vikas enjoys immersing himself in the advisory and mentoring of emerging organizations. Vikas is the Chair of the non-profit organization, The McLuhan Festival of the Future, and sits on the Board of Directors of Interactive Ontario. He is also an advisor to N4 Systems, Interscope Directories, and was a Director on the Board of Simply Audio Books. Vikas is a frequent speaker and lecturer at the University of Toronto Rotman School of Business and Ryerson University's Business and Technology program. In 2008, Vikas was the recipient of the Indo-Canadian Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneur of the Year Award and has also been featured in a broad range of print and television media. Vikas is a graduate of the University of Waterloo, Canada's premier high-tech educational institution.

Here's video of Vikas giving a keynote at the Intel Developer Forum last year, an example of the awesome content that he will be providing at this years DIG Conference!

Sponsor Profile: Fanshawe College

2010-11-12T10:34:00.000-08:00

Fanshawe College is one of the premier design colleges in not only Ontario, but Canada. One of their most exciting programs, and one that would primarily interest DIG attendees is the Multi Media Design and Production program. According to their website "If you like movies, websites, and games that blow you away with special effects and animation, you'll be right at home in the Multi-Media Design and Production program. Take your creative skills to the next level and gain experience in computer-based web design and programming, 3-D, special effects, animation, game design, effects for film and video design for print. You'll get hands on, practical training from industry professionals and have the freedom to create you own visual and audio masterpieces."

Here's a video that gives a first hand account from the students about how Fanshawe was the perfect choice for them

One of these industry professionals, Dan Rickard, will be on hand at this years DIG conference. Having worked on dozens of games including Batman Arkham City and Arkham Asylum, Borderlands, Army of Two 40th Day, Hulk, Wanted, Blacksite, Sacred 2, and most of the Battlefield series, Dan's experience speaks volumes as to the kind of quality instruction and expertise that Fanshawe provides its students.

In his session, Animation Workshop: Character Creation Dan will use game development tools Mudbox, 3ds, and Photoshop for character creation. Delegates will learn to develop a high poly sculpt, a low poly mesh, map creation and texturing, Lip Sync animation, and full body animation of biped characters interacting in a fight sequence. The workshop will take place Friday November 19th as part of the DIG 2010 Conference. You can register online for the conference workshop!

Speaker Profile: Dr. Sam Trosow

2010-11-11T20:51:00.000-08:00

Dr. Samuel Trosow is an Associate Professor at the University of Western Ontario teaching in both the Faculty of Information and Media Studies (FIMS) and the Faculty of Law.

Focusing primarily on law relating to the digital environment and copyright issues, professor Trosow is currently the principal investigator on a research project at FIMS titled "Mobilizing User-Generated Content for Canada's Digital Content Advantage" In his presentation at DIG 2010 he will be reporting on the work done in the advantage study and its implications for future public policies.

Dr. Trosow also serves as the Network Investigator and Project Leader of the GRAND-NCE in Vancouver, a comprehensive research program headed by a board of leaders in both business and academics whose goal is to understand the underlying technologies of new media, animation, and games, in order to better understand how these high growth industries can lead to social, legal, economic, and cultural benefits for Canadians.

Here is an example lecture of Dr. Trosow's involving copyright law, an issue sure to be touched on as he speaks at this year's conference!

Speaker Profile: Tonya Constant

2010-11-07T21:12:00.000-08:00

In 2007, Tonya was working as a QA tester for game developer Beanbag Studios when she was promoted to head of the writing department, working on projects such as EA's "For Dummies" series of games fot the PC and Nintendo DS

After leaving Beanbag in 2009, Tonya, along with colleagues Hayley Patterson and Melanie Lagrou, founded The Ant Firm, a video game testing company based in London, Ontario, where she focuses mainly on the business development and marketing of their products. With her background in both QA and game production, Tonya has an appreciation for the "art of games testing".

According to her Ant Firm profile, Tonya is an avid gamer obsessed with zombie franchises, underwater dystopias and the actress Sada Thompson.

Tonya is just one of many local London game developers that will be at this years DIG Conference, sharing their insight on not only the gaming industry, but why they choose to call London home.

Sponsor Profile: OMDC

2010-11-04T13:25:00.000-07:00

OMDC is the Ontario Media Development Corporation, a branch of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture responsible for recognizing and fostering growth in numerous forms of media in Ontario. In recognition of the growth potential in the digital gaming industry, especially for the province of Ontario, OMDC have made available a number of tax incentives and partnership grants all in an effort to support those who are looking to establish Ontario as a leader in the digital and interactive media industry. Their sponsorship of this years DIG conference serves as another example of their commitment to driving Ontario's talent to the forefront of their fields, with DIG acting as a forum for them to gather and share their knowledge and experience. We thank OMDC for their continued support!

Speaker Profile: Wolfgang Hamann

2010-10-31T22:12:00.000-07:00

Wolfgang Hamann is the President and CEO of Koolhaus Games Inc, producers of the record breaking Madden NFL 11 game for the Apple iPad, the first game on iTunes to top both the Games Chart and All Applications Chart. This represents only his most recent achievement, with an impressive production resume that includes work with both of EA's NCAA Football and NHL franchises, and the legendary Simpsons brand. Asked to speak at multiple GDC's along with gaming conferences in both Korea and Germany, Wolfgang is bringing a wealth of knowledge to his seminar at DIG 2010

Here's video of Madden 11 for the iPad in action

In his 40 minute Discussion, Wolfgang will be disclosing some of the joys and challenges of bringing an established franchise to a new hardware platform. Some of the topics will include

Game Design - The challenges of improving on an already successful title
UI Design and Graphics - Bigger screen brings bigger concerns
Technology - Is the iPad just a souped up iPhone?
Innovations - The process of bringing innvoative features to an established title on a new platform
New Features - Multiplayer and Vintage Voltage: Challenges in design, technology and QA

This is one you do not want to miss!

Speaker Profile: Bryce Hunter

2010-10-31T20:00:00.000-07:00

Bryce Hunter is a producer at the game developer Big Blue Bubble Inc., where he currently specializes in the casual, social and mobile gaming spaces. In 2008, Bryce graduated at the top of his class with majors in both highly competitive business and sociology programs at the University of Western Ontario. It was at UWO that he focused his passion for technology while mentoring professors on the benefits of implementing technology into their daily lectures.

Through the collaborative effort of Bryce and the incredibly talented team at Big Blue Bubble, he is proud to be responsible for designing, producing, and fostering the product life of numerous titles including M. Night Shyamalan's The Last Airbender (PC), iCarly: iDream in Toons (PC), and Home Sweet Home (Wii). Bryce currently lives in London, Ontario with his beautiful wife, Sarah.

New Release From Howling Moon!

2010-10-19T11:51:00.000-07:00

Lee Ing's Howling Moon Games, participants in last years DIG Conference, are proud to release their newest game Bloodline of the Fallen: Anna's Sacrifice. According to the Howling Moon site, Bloodline of the Fallen is a hidden object game. "After the loss of Anna's father, she learns about a dark family secret. Her travels take her around the world trying to reveal clues of an evil cult. Eventually, her dark destiny is revealed. Sacrifices and confrontations are made to fend off the evil that may consume her soul" Featuring 24 levels, multiple mini games and a dark an intriguing storyline, Bloodline of the Fallen: Anna's Sacrifice certainly sounds like a great title to check out. It is available for download here!

Speaker Profile: Claudette Critchley

2010-10-17T20:43:00.000-07:00

Claudette Critchley graduated at the top of her class in university and obtained both her Computer Science and Education degrees. After university, she taught Computer Science at a private college and quickly advanced to the position of Regional Education Manager.

Although she had a great passion for education, she found that programming gave her even greater professional satisfaction. In 2000, she left her teaching career to pursue a career in video game development at Sandbox Studios/Digital Illusions. During her time there, her knowledge of gaming and the industry grew as she took on the role of programmer/lead programmer on several of their hit titles.

Her versatility and continued drive for excellence led her to co-found Big Blue Bubble in 2004. As COO, she has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of the company. Claudette will be on hand at his years conference to lend her unique insight into both the business and education sides of the gaming industry, along with joining the rest of the Big Blue Bubble team in showcasing some of their latest and greatest creations.

Here's an interview our good friends at Games Day Podcast put together to give you a better idea of what Claudette and Big Blue Bubble do in the gaming industry. Enjoy!

Interview with Claudette Critchley from Big Blue Bubble from gamesdaypodcast on Vimeo.

London kicking a$$ in digital media content

2010-10-14T11:27:00.000-07:00

London companies Voices.com and Big Blue Bubble are finalists in the Canadian New Media Awards (CNMA). CNMA acknowledges and celebrates the accomplishments of Canada's most successful digital media companies.

Voices.com is a finalist in the Digital Media Technology of the Year category that recognizes Canadian technology that will most radically change the media landscape. Voices.com has created technology that allows producers, casting directors, and businesses to negotiate directly with the voice over talent without an agency intercession. The Voices.com marketplace enables people to post a job, and then receive responses based on their specific project requirements.

Big Blue Bubble is a finalist in two categories! Best Mobile Application category for it's game Thumpies and the game's demonstration of excellent functionality, innovation, audience reach and frequency, and its excellent use of capabilities of the mobile medium. Best Web-Based Game category acknowledges innovative games that are playable in a web browser.

Both finalists will be joining us at DIG 2010 as speakers! Look forward to hearing from Canada's best!

How Games Motivate People

2010-10-13T10:57:00.000-07:00

A recent article by Adam Dole (twitter.com/adamdole) talks about how to turn gaming into a source of social change. Dole argues that companies can adopt game-like mechanisms to satisfy user needs. "Users" here referring broadly to consumers, customers, clients, etc. Check out his idea of "Game Changing Benefits"

Speaker Profile: Sean Murch

2010-10-12T15:47:00.000-07:00

Sean produced his first video game, Grid Runner, for Radical Entertainment in 1994.

Prior to working in games, Sean enjoyed a successful career as a writer, producer and development executive in the film and television industry - most notably as Head of Development and Sales for Nelvana Enterprises, a $550M entertainment company focused on children and youth programming. Sean has also worked as a development producer for director Francis Ford Coppola.After shifting permanently to the video game sector, Sean worked at Electronic Arts, where he designed, built and managed a department of over a hundred content creators, tasked with providing character models, textures and rigs for all fifteen of the EA Sports line of products. Sean now holds dual roles as Head of Business Development for independent game developer, Next Level Games and CEO of Playful Entertainment, an independent publishing label based in Vancouver, BC. He is also a founding board member of BC Interactive.

Sean is one of many industry leaders that will be lending their expertise and knowledge to DIG 2010. Click here to see a complete list of this years speakers!

Digital Extremes Wins Ontario Chamber Award!

2010-09-27T18:28:00.000-07:00

London's own Digital Extremes have won a Business and Export Excellence award from the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. Specifically being awarded the OBAA Royal Bank Award for Small Business, this is yet another example that proves London's digital gaming industry not only competes with sectors within Ontario, but exceeds them. As in previous years, Digital Extremes will have strong presence at this year's DIG conference with president Michael Schmalz confirmed as a speaker along with a number of Digital Extremes projects making their way to the show floor. Be sure to come meet not only Digital Extremes but the rest of London and Canada's gaming industry elite.

Congratulations Digital Extremes!

Can gaming make a better world?

2010-09-17T10:39:00.000-07:00

Jane McGonigal argues that games like World of Warcraft give players the opportunity to save worlds, learn the habits of heroes and experience "epic wins" - an experience that motivates the next generation to tackle tough problems. Check out her TED Talk

Side Effects Software @ DIG 2010

2010-09-13T09:04:00.000-07:00

Dr. Salvini, Side Effects Software

Chief Technology Officer and VP of Canadian Operations for Side Effects Software, Dr. Paul Salvini has joined the DIG 2010 lineup of speakers. Side Effects software has been a global leader in the development of 3D animation and visual effects software. The company's Houdini software has been used in hundreds of blockbuster films including Terminator Salvation and nine of the past eleven films to receive the Oscar for Visual Effects. Dr. Salvini leads a two-time academy award winning team of computer scientists and mathematicians who are passionate about advancing the art and science of computer graphics.

Sife Effects Software in Terminator franchise

Salvini's session Going Proceduaral: A Better Way to Make Better Games will talk about how Side Effects Software's approach has made it possible for movies to achieve more realistic effects and improve efficiency and the management of digital assets. Salvini argues that with next generation games on the verge of achieving feature film quality within the game engine, procedural techniques will offer a new way of thinking that could revolutionize the game development process! Check out the DIG 2010 program for more information

Big Blue Bubble Thumps the Competition

2010-09-07T09:42:00.000-07:00

Game developer Big Blue Bubble won the Mobile Entertainment of the Year award of the Mobile Content Awards in Seoul, Korea.


BBB's lovable Thumpie!

Facing some stiff competition from more than 110 companies in 15 countries, their game Thumpies bounced to the top spot. Thumpies is a unique rhythm-based music game for players of all ages. By correctly matching the beat of bouncing Thumpies the player progresses through a song. Unlike typical rhythm based games, Thumpies uses the mechanic of bouncing in time instead of just a series of notes. The quirky art design of Thumpies is accompanied by a unique musical score composed by award winning industry veteran David Kerr. You can watch the Tumpies in Action on You Tube, or check out their iPad trailer or visit www.Thumpies.com

With over 50 high profile games in its portfolio, Big Blue Bubble Inc. is one of Canada's leading video game developers. Each of the company's three divisions (iPhone, Console, and Casual) is dedicated to making the best possible games by combining innovative designers with top artistic and industry leading programmers. Big Blue Bubble is a London based company. Founder and CEO Damir Slogar will present at DIG 2010. Maybe he'll give us some insight on developing games to thump out the competition!

Dan Rickard Leading Animation Workshop at DIG 2010

2010-08-30T12:33:00.000-07:00

Dan Rickard is joining the DIG 2010 line-up to provide delegates with an Animation Workshop. Dan is an accomplished 3d artist specializing in animation and character design. He has worked on dozens of games including Batman Arkham City and Arkham Asylum, Borderlands, Army of Two 40th Day, Hulk, Wanted, Blacksite, Sacred 2, and most of the Battlefield series.

Over the past 11 years Dan has worked at every artistic stage of game development with DICE Canada and has also been Art Manager and Animation Lead at Redjade. While freelancing through contract work Dan has recently begun instructing at Fanshawe College where he teaches introductory and advanced 3d Animation and Character Design. His course focuses on modeling, texturing, and animation.

In his session, Animation Workshop: Character Creation Dan will use game development tools Mudbox, 3ds, and Photoshop for character creation. Delegates will learn to develop a high poly sculpt, a low poly mesh, map creation and texturing, Lip Sync animation, and full body animation of biped characters interacting in a fight sequence. The workshop will take place Friday November 19th as part of the DIG 2010 Conference. You can register online for the conference workshop.

Ontario - a video-game player

2010-08-17T10:30:00.000-07:00

Check out the article in the London Free Press today that notes how Ontario has become a hub for video-game development in Ontario. For those of us working in the industry, we have seen the steady increase is studios and talent producing triple A, mobile, and console games- this news is no surprise to us! But, it's great to see London companies like Digital Extremes recognized for their talent and clout they bring to the industry.

Video Games Lead to Success in the Workplace?

2010-08-06T07:42:00.000-07:00

In his article "How Playing Video Games Can Boost Your Career", Oliver Chang of Forbes.com makes some very interesting connections between success in the virtual realm and the tangible benefits it can have in the corporate workplace. He talks with Elliot Noss, the CEO of a major domain provider, who personally uses characteristics and strategy of online MMORPG's to better not only himself, but his workforce as well.

"In World of Warcraft, each action, even a small task like hunting an animal, has a purpose and fits into a broader framework. Similarly, Noss has set up frameworks at Tucows that allow employees to understand how day-to-day tasks impact the company."

There has been no shortage of talk on the internet of how efforts like the Xbox's Achievement system have revolutionized the way people look at gaming. The idea of chasing the elusive high score in the Arcade has now been translated into players trying to not only attain high scores, but think and perform in novel ways to attain small goals eventually benefitting their overall ranking. The generation of gamers that have grown up with this sort of goal oriented game play have been recognized in industry as able to translate their skills to achieve real world business goals as well.

"We're finding that the younger people coming into the teams who have had experience playing online games are the highest-level performers because they are constantly motivated to seek out the next challenge and grab on to performance metrics," says John Hagel III, co-chairman of a tech-oriented strategy center for Deloitte

Definitely some interesting ideas challenging the traditional way people look at video games. If you're interested in hearing about more innovative ways to think about gaming, or maybe a chance to put those skills you have learned from gaming to the test, be sure to check out DIG London 2010!

Mark Mikulec Keynote Posted!

2010-08-04T06:20:00.000-07:00

Mark began developing professional-quality sci-fi themed computer games in his spare time during the mid 90's, distributing them through the Internet.

During university, Mark founded his first company, Iron Fusion Inc. and developed a fully featured multi-media/game engine and an online project management system. Iron Fusion's products catered to various academic institutions across North America, including Niagara College and the University of California at Berkeley. In 2003, Iron Fusion won the McMaster University Campus Incubator grand prize of $25,000 for best business startup.

After joining Digital Extremes in 2004, Mark was a major contributor to several games, including Pariah and Dark Sector. He left in 2008 to co-found Antic Entertainment to execute his vision of creating casual games for the hardcore player. Antic won first prize in the Venture London Business Competition earlier this year. Junk: Battles, Antic’s first browser-based, "casual-core" title, went live in August 2009.
Check out the video at our youtube page here and don't forget to subscribe to be kept up to date on all new posted content!

2010-07-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

Ernst & Young have recognized Ontario highest-achieving entrepreneurs who make a difference in the global economy. Based in London and a DIG collaborator, game developer Digital Extremes have made the short list. Not only is this a huge honor for the company, but it is a recognition of our local talent on a national and global scale. This is more great news about where the digital gaming industry in Ontario is headed. The names of the Ontario winners will be announced at a gala banquet in Toronto on October 13th and the overall winner will represent Ontario at the national banquet in Toronto on November 17th. The original article and a full list of all nominees can be found here, and examples of games Digital Extremes have developed along with members of their staff will all be a part of DIG 2010.

Best of luck Digital Extremes!

2010-07-22T08:37:00.000-07:00

Here's some more information regarding London's bid for the new Digital Media Centre we mentioned a little while back. One of the key players in the bid partnership is the Tech South East firm based in Moncton, New Brunswick. The organization recognizes that the development of a centre of this caliber would serve as a "significant step in improving the access to commercialization resources for digital interactive game technology developers across Canada." Incorporated in 2009, Tech South East's mission is to accelerate the growth of innovation-based entrepreneurship and economic development, with a vision of a dynamic and growing technology industry driven by effective collaboration and cooperation between the business community, the academic and research community, and the government sector.

Tech South East's membership includes a number of companies from New Brunswick's vibrant digital media, gaming and animation sector. They believe that the development of the Centre in London will "not only enhance the development of these regional partners, but contribute to the broader national objectives of the industry"

Tech South East sees the establishment of the Digital Centre as "an exciting step forward for Canada's digital interactive game development industry and it's future competitiveness". A key component to the development and future success of the Centre in London is the collaboration of industry representatives on a national scale, coast-to-coast. Tech South East's endorsement of the bid is a major step forward in realizing that goal.

Hugo Morin Keynote Posted!

2010-07-16T08:22:00.000-07:00

If you head on over to our youtube page, you can now watch Hugo Morin's keynote presentation from last year's DIG conference. Hugo Morin founded Humagade in April 2003. Humagade, Inc. produces videogames on multiple platforms. Its services included video game production, conversion/porting services, specific programming, traditional art, 3D models and animations, Web design, and music and sound effects. In the years that followed, the company experienced a staggering growth rate, with an 84% increase in sales each year, and a rapid growth in size to over 40 employees. Having produced over 100 games in J2ME/BREW and Flashlite, it rapidly became a key player in the mobile entertainment market. Because of Humagade’s distinctive experience, it has had the opportunity to work with world-class licenses such as Star Wars, Mickey Mouse and the Olympic Games. In February 2008, Mr. Morin became a shareholder in Frima Studio, which acquired Humagade. Today, Frima has over 230 employees and is the second-largest independent studio in Quebec. Mr. Morin has over 15 years’ experience as a manager in the high-tech sector and is actively involved in the Quebec industry. He sits on the Board of Directors of the provincial association for IT entrepreneurs (Voix des Entrepreneurs en Technologie de l’Information de Québec (VETIQ)), on the board of the National School of Interactive Entertainment, on the board of the Plateforme Multimedia, participates in VETIQ’s “Presidents’ Circle,” and gives seminars on his business experience. In 2007–2008, he was selected by the government of Quebec to participate in a training program on IT-business management, given by the prestigious Massachussets Institute of Technology (MIT) in Boston. Keep checking back as more keynotes are posted and speakers for this years conference are announced!

Ontario Technology Corridor at GDC 2010

2010-07-12T08:39:00.000-07:00

The 2010 installment of the annual Game Developers Conference in San Francisco will have a much stronger Canadian presence than in years past due to the attendance of executives from the Ontario Technology Corridor (OTC). The game development industry in Ontario is booming and the OTC intend on showing conference attendees that the province is an excellent place to expand or relocate their companies.

Ontario's fast-growing entertainment and creative cluster produces $15 billion in revenue and over 200,000 jobs, contributing $12.7 billion to the province's GDP. In addition, gaming and digital media graduates from Ontario colleges and universities have proven to be prized employees at companies like Pixar Animation Studios, Electronic Arts, Walt Disney and Microsoft.

"Our job now is to add to our tremendous home-grown crop of companies. 35 Ontario gaming companies are at GDC 2010 to showcase their world-class creations, make business connections, and help demonstrate that Ontario is a prime destination in North America for gaming investment" said Larry MacKinnon, Director, Business Development, Technology with the London Economic Development Corporation, host organization of the DIG conference. The list of companies that have previously attended DIG and will be attending GDC 2010 includes Digital Extremes and Ubisoft.

Boasting a renowned academic base, skilled workforce, and numerous government tax incentives and grants, the GDC 2010 will serve as an excellent opportunity to showcase our local benefits to the broader gaming industry of North America.

For more information on the Ontario Technology Corridor click here!

Canada Overtakes UK as Third Largest Game Maker

2010-07-07T06:47:00.000-07:00

More good news for the gaming industry in Canada. Yesterdays article at 1up.com reports that "the country has now topped the U.K. as the third largest video game development community in the world. According to data from the Entertainment Software Association of Canada, roughly 14,000 people are currently employed at the over 247 game companies in Canada -- a number surpassed only by the U.S. and Japan" Obviously this is great news for the future of the industry in Canada, especially for South Western Ontario, as 83% percent of Canada's games are developed between the major gaming regions of Vancouver, Montreal, and London/Southwestern Ontario.We are currently in the process of compiling our list of industry insiders that will be attending this years DIG Conference so look for that being posted soon!

Games Day Podcast Confirmed for Another Year!

2010-07-05T06:58:00.000-07:00

Once again the guys at Games Day Podcast will be joining the DIG team, lending their expertise to cover the conference at their site here. The London locals are posting up to 4 shows a week now and giving their own spin on the newest games and trends in the industry. Their most recent episode "Judge A Book By It's Cover" takes an in-depth look at the box art of video games, which you can check out here.
They also have just released three more of their shorter GDP101's, covering online poker, multiplayer appeal, and a new pinball game for the iPad. Make sure you check them out!

London Gaming Industry in the London Free Press

2010-06-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

The city of London has committed to adding $5-million to a bid for a state-or-the-art Digital Gaming Center of Excellence to be built in London's downtown core. London's Digital Extremes, Big Blue Bubble, Fanshawe College, Research Western, LEDC, TechAlliance, and WORLDiscoveries are working together on the application for the Centre of Excellence

Where most people think of digital gaming as strictly a means of entertainment for youth, this Centre would harness the cutting edge technology developed by gaming industry companies, including those in the city of London, to train essential services like doctors and firefighters in a "realistic and risk-free" virtual environment. This is a perfect example of one of the many sectors the gaming industry can benefit in the future and it is excellent to see London's business and education at the forefront of the trend. Experts asked to comment on the story, Michael Katchabaw of the University of Western Ontario and Michael Schmalz of London's Digital Extremes, both of whom attended last years DIG Conference. Be sure to check out the full story here!

DIG Confirmed for 2010!

2010-06-28T10:08:00.000-07:00

The 3rd annual Digital Interactive Gaming Conference in London Ontario has been confirmed for November 18th and 19th 2010 in London Ontario! DIG is the premier conference for the ever-growing gaming industry in Ontario and central Canada, and serves as a forum for connecting Canada's leading video game developers, publishers, technology companies, service providers and brightest new talent. As in previous years attendees will not only be enlivened by keynote speakers, but a convergence of all aspects and members of the industry, allowing for invaluable face-to-face networking and the sharing of years of collective experience. The last two conferences proved to be great steps forward in the progress of Ontario's position in the North American Gaming Industry. We are already very excited for what's in store for this years event.

New additions for DIG 2010 include

A partnership with the 5th Annual Vortex Gaming Competition
A new Game Expo sponsored by Gaming Union.net
New engagement opportunities for DIG attendees and community to interact with DIG content and one another

Save the date and look forward to many exciting announcements from the DIG advisory committee as we unveil our program and new features!

NextGen Player – Canada’s Premier Gaming Blog

2010-06-24T13:56:00.000-07:00

If you haven’t checked out NextGen Player, now is the time because this industry blog will be at DIG London. As one of Canada’s top gaming blogs, NextGen Player is dedicated to informing viewers about the newest game releases, game reviews, and hot industry buzz. The site began in April 2008; managing partners Paul Hunter’s and Andrew Shin’s vision was to create a website devoted to sharing exciting Canadian-centric gaming news with the rest of the world.
From their website:
“Each month tens of thousands of gamers across the globe visit NextGen Player for the hottest Canadian gaming stories. Our site features coverage of breaking Canadian video game news, coverage of live Canadian gaming events, video game previews & reviews, highlights of Canadian game promotions and retail sales, as well as coverage of Canadian game sales data & research.
NextGen Player is a site focused on bringing together gamers and fostering a community that is active and engaging. Our coverage focuses first and foremost on Canadian gaming culture with broad appeal to both the hardcore and the casual gamer.”
Check out NextGen Player Today!