Category Archives: Train2Game

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Train2Game news: Lionhead provide advice to artists on getting ahead in the industry

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Fable IIITrain2Game Art & Animation students should definitely read the latest article in Develop Online’s ‘New Year, New Job’ feature, as Lionhead Head of Art Paul McLaughlin gives tips on how to be a great artist in a game development studio.

His advice for artists is as follows, and it could be especially useful to Train2Game students who are currently on Train2Game industry experience placements.

• Turn up for work and be nice to people.
• Make your boss’s life easier, not harder.
• Take a deep interest in whatever you’re working on. Do your damnedest to understand the art/game direction.
• Find out what you’re good at that is useful to the team and try to excel in that area.
• Keep your skills honed. No matter how senior you are, you still need to show ‘potential’.
• Work with the production team. Don’t promise what you can’t deliver, and if you’re struggling then flag it early.
• Don’t let your ego get in the way of doing what’s required.

It’s excellent advice for Train2Game Artists, who along with all other Train2Game students should keep an eye on Develop Online’s jobs feature for more excellent advice from industry professionals.

For more great advice from Lionhead, Train2Game students should check out this Train2Game Blog post in which Peter Molyneux offers guidance about getting into the games industry. He also reveals that many Lionhead staff started their careers as QA Testers.

What are your thoughts on the advice from Lionhead?

Leave your comments here on The Train2Game Blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

[Source: Develop Online]

Train2Game news: Bioware would test more if they made Star Wars: The Old Republic again

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Train2Game students will be aware that Bioware launched their long awaited MMO Star Wars: The Old Republic last month, after many years in development.

Now, in an interview with TORWars, Bioware co-founder Greg Zeschuk has revealed that if given the chance, Bioware would do it all again, but in hindsight, there are things they’d do slightly different during development, including much more testing.

“I think we would definitely do it over again given the opportunity, or a time machine.” said Zeschuk, who along with fellow Bioware co-founder Dr. Ray Muzyka spoke to The Train2Game Blog about the studio last November.

“I think we can see a lot of things we could have done differently given the benefit of retrospective vision, but I also don’t think we would have changed many decisions. It would more have been a process of refinement and fine tuning to our plans.”

Train2Game Blog readers might recall that Bioware put massive importance on testing Star Wars: The Old Republic, but Zeschuk believes they should’ve done even more of it in order to help develop the game.

“Certainly testing even more than we did, and doing so earlier would have been a good goal.” he said.

“ I also think in retrospect we would have been able to weight some of our technical decisions differently given that we ultimately knew what worked after the fact and what needed a lot of work; there was no way of knowing that in advance, but in retrospect that would have helped quite a bit.” Zeschuk concluded.

Of course, Train2Game offers a course in games QA testing, which you can find out more about here.

For more about the development of Star Wars: The Old Republic, read our interview with Bioware Associate Lead Designer Emmanuel Lusinchi right here on The Train2Game Blog.

So Train2Game, what are your thoughts on Zeschuks comments?  What do they say about the importance of testing throughout game development?

Leave your comments here on The Train2Game Blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

[Source: TORWars via VG247]

Train2Game news: Skyrim mod changes dragons into “Macho Man” Randy Savage

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Train2Game student fans of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim can replace the game’s dragons with the late wrestler, “Macho Man” Randy Savage.

That’s if you install the ‘Macho Dragons’ mod which has been built by a modder going by the handle of FancyPantz. It replaces all dragons’ skins with the man himself, and even changes their shouts to his “Yeah!” catchphrase.

See the ‘Macho Dragon’s mod in action in the video below, right here on The Train2Game Blog.

Like it? You can download the Skyrim Macho Dragon mod here.

Last week, The Train2Game Blog showcased another slightly surreal Skyrim mod, one that allowed you to change Mud Crabs into Futurama’s Doctor Zoidberg.

As previously reported by The Train2Game Blog, official modding tools for Skyrim, featuring Valve integration, are set to be released sometime this month.

Not only is modding an excellent way for those on Train2Game courses to practice their skills, but it can also provide that extra experience needed to get into the games industry.

“It’s a really good way for someone to get noticed because it shows that you’re able” Valve’s Chet Faliszek previously told the Train2Game blog on the subject of modding.

A more realistic depiction of “Macho Man” Randy Savage is available with WWE ’12, you see our interview with Lead Gameplay Designer Brian Williams here on The Train2Game Blog.

So Train2Game, do you use Skyrim mods? Will you make your dragons macho?

Leave your comments here on The Train2Game Blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

Train2Game news: Rumours suggest next Xbox will be tablet based

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Kinect for Xbox 360 Train2Game blog imageTrain2Game blog readers could see the next-gen Xbox feature tablet based components. At least that’s according to rumours from GameSpot.

“Given Microsoft’s recent efforts at unification across its Windows, Mobile, and Xbox product lines, it seems clear that the 720 or whatever they end up calling it (surely not that) will be the ultimate personification of that strategy.” suggest GameSpot.

“There are strong signs suggesting that, like with Nintendo’s Wii U, a tablet component figures heavily into the new design. That saucy Windows 8 Metro interface (now also seen on the Xbox Dashboard) just begs to be touched.”

“Speculation as to the form it will take has been rife for the past few months, with some even suggesting that the core of the new platform will be akin to a tablet PC that wirelessly connects to a base station, which in turn plugs into your TV.”

“If this is the case, a premium Xbox Next setup could feasibly include a base station, a tablet, a conventional controller of some kind, and the recently discussed high-def evolution of the Kinect.”

GameSpot claim that Microsoft will make their first announcement regarding the Xbox 720…or whatever it’s going to be called…at this week’s Consumer Electronics show.

If Microsoft are going to be including a tablet with their next Xbox, they’re not the only console producers following that path. As reported by the Train2Game blog last year, Nintendo’s Wii U features a tablet based controller.

The Train2Game Blog has previously brought you suggestions that the next Xbox console will be launched next year.

Whenever the next generation of consoles eventually appears, Epic Games Cliff Blezsinski wants them to be capable of graphics at the same level as the movie Avatar.

So Train2Game, what are your thoughts on the rumours about the next Xbox being tablet based? Could it happen? If so, what does it say about the direction of Microsoft?

Leave your comments here on The Train2Game Blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

[Source: GameSpot]

Train2Game news: UK Charts – FIFA 12 takes first No.1 of 2012

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Train2Game blog readers asw FIFA 12 take the final No.1 of 2011 and 2012 has started in the same way with EA Sports’ popular football title remaining at the top of the pile.

It’s the fifth time FIFA 12, which as reported by the Train2Game blog was the UK’s third ever biggest launch when it was released, has taken top spot.

EA also take second place in this week’s chart with Battlefield 3 moving up one spot to No.2, switching places with Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 which drops to No.3. Just Dance 3 remains at No.4, while The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim raises three places to No.5.

Zumba Fitness, which Train2Game Blog readers saw dominate the charts last summer, returns to the top ten at No.6, one place ahead of non-mover Need for Speed: The Run. Saints Row: The Third drops to No.8, while moves up from No.12 to re-enter the top ten at No.9.

Train2Game students can read our interview with RAGE Creative Director Tim Willits, which contains some great advice about getting into the industry, here on The Train2Game Blog.

Assassin’s Creed: Revelations completes the top ten this week, after dropping down five spots from No.5.

The UKIE Gfk Chart-Track All Formats Top 10 for the week ending 7th January 2012 is therefore as follows:

1. FIFA 12 (EA)
2. Battlefield 3 (EA)
3. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (Activision)
4. Just Dance 3 (Ubisoft)
5. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (Bethesda)
6. Zumba Fitness (505 Games)
7. Need For Speed: The Run (EA)
8. Saints Row: The Third (THQ)
9. Rage (Bethesda)
10. Assassin’s Creed: Revelations (Ubisoft)

So Train2Game, what are your thoughts on this weeks charts? For how long will FIFA 12 continue to dominate?

Leave your comments here on The Train2Game Blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

[Source: UKIE Games Charts©, compiled by GfK Chart-Track]

Train2Game news: Shooters have “biggest window of entry” says Binary Domain producer

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Train2Game blog readers would’ve seen this recent post which reported Metal Gear Solid creator Hideo Kojima believes the success of shooters means there isn’t much demand of other types of games.

It’s a view that ultimately wasn’t shared by Train2Game students, with many responding on the Train2Game Facebook page.

However, appeals of shooters include the fact they’re popular and relatively simple to jump in and play, and according to the producer of SEGA’s upcoming title Binary Domain, that’s the studio decided to develop the game.

“The genre was chosen to have the biggest window of entry for as many gamers as possible. Yes it’s the studio’s first shooter and there’s a lot of challenges. Within the studio there are so many who are total enthusiasts and who play a range of western titles.” Binary Domain producer Masayoshi Kikuchi told CVG.

However, he explained that SEGA also want to bring something new to the table with Binary Domian which features voice commands and an in-game consequences system.

“I’ve looked at a lot of shooters for good references. But also there’s a good point of comparison: identifying where the genre lacked and trying to bring something new to it. We wanted to contribute to the ‘gap’, and this is where having robotic enemies comes in. It ties heavily into the gameplay and with the very detailed procedural damage, giving you a different sense of feeling.” said Kikuchi.

And he added that SEGA have used both Japanese and English speaking writers to aid with the appeal of Binary Domain.

“For Binary Domain a Japanese and UK writer collaborated on the story and all the little dialogues, Subtle differences were discussed so as not to alienate anyone despite where they’re from.” Kikuch said.

Binary Domain from SEGA “puts players in the middle of a fast paced and intense battle for humanity in a robot-invaded 2080 Tokyo” It’s scheduled for release on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 on 17th February.

So Train2Game, do shooters have the biggest window of entry? And what are your thoughts on Japanese and English speaking writers working together to smooth out dialogue?

Leave your comments here on The Train2Game Blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

[Source: CVG]

Train2Game news: PopCap provide advice on becoming a better game designer

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Train2Game game designers should definitely have a look the latest article in Develop Online’s ‘New Year, New Job’ feature, as social game developer PopCap provides advice on how to be a better game designer.

PopCap are responsible for a huge number of games including Plants vs. Zombies, Bejewled and Peggle, and the guide to becoming a better game designer comes from their Senior Designer Dave Bishop. Check out his advice below.

1. Look at/play as many games as you can; not just ones you would naturally gravitate towards.

2. Circulate your thoughts/findings/learnings, especially  where you believe a game breaks new ground and/or does something particularly well – or badly – where lessons can be learnt.

3. Publish the above on your own design related, blog.

4. Organise/run board game evenings (and make sure you play King of Tokyo J)

5. Look for any way to get/be involved in the creative process – ask to be invited to/included in brainstorm and design review sessions. Do your homework so you are well placed to contribute in a meaningful and ‘memorable’ fashion.

6. If already in a design team then offer to help/support/review the design work of your peers.

7. Study design trends and best practices, especially in emerging areas such as social gaming, and position yourself as the company’s expert in one or more of these specific areas of game design.

8. In your own time, create new design ideas/concepts that might fit into your company’s future produce strategy. Look for ways to present these to the key stakeholders within your organisation.

9. Try to attend conferences/seminars etcetera. that will broaden your experience base; for example GDC.

10. Look for opportunities to attend any relevant training likely to enhance you skill set and standing within your organisation; for example, scrum master, product owner, running successful brainstorm sessions etcetera.

It’s excellent advice for Train2Game game designers, who along with all other Train2Game students should keep an eye on Develop Online’s jobs feature for more excellent advice from industry professionals.

So Train2Game, what are your thoughts on the advice from PopCap? Has it given you some new ideas?

Leave your comments here on The Train2Game Blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

[Source: Develop Online]

Train2Game launches Train2Game TV

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Train2Game are pleased to announce a new addition to our media network in the form of Train2Game TV.

Train2Game TV features every Train2Game video to date, divided into three separate categories for viewer convenience.

‘What The Experts Say’ features advice from industry professionals on how to get into the games industry, and their views on current industry trends.  ‘Putting Skills To The Test’ features footage and interviews from the Train2Game Gam Jams, and shows Train2Game students using the abilities they’ve learned on Train2Game courses to develop games. Meanwhile, ‘Student Diaries’ features Train2Game students talking about their experience on Train2Game courses.

Check out the brand new Train2Game TV website here.

Remember, you can also listen to interviews with industry experts and Train2Game students on Train2Game Radio.

Leave your comments here on The Train2Game Blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

Train2Game news: Game Developers Choice Awards nominees revealed

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Train2Game students can now see the finalists for the 12th annual Game Developers Choice Awards, the leading peer-based video game industry event celebrating the industry’s top games and developers.

Nominations this year are led by three studios and their games, each of which received five Choice Award nods, including Bethesda Game Studios’ long awaited open-world fantasy RPG The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, and Valve’s cunning, charming sci-fi puzzle action title Portal 2.

Also nominated five times was newcomer Supergiant Games and its acclaimed downloadable action RPG Bastion, which saw nominations in four categories, plus one for the studio itself, for Best Debut.

Both Portal 2 and Skyrim were nominated for Game Of The Year as one of their nods. The other Game Of The Year nominees are Rocksteady Studios’s dark superhero game sequel Batman: Arkham City, From Software’s immersive hardcore RPG Dark Souls, and Eidos Montreal’s acclaimed franchise update Deus Ex: Human Revolution, also all multiple award-nominated.

Check out Train2Game’s huge interview with Deus Ex: Human Revolution writer Jim Swallow, here on the Train2Game blog.

Other titles with multiple nominations include Naughty Dog’s action adventure Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception, and Team Bondi’s detective title L.A.Noire. A diverse set of overall nominees include titles with digital-physical crossover (Toys for Bob’s Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure – for Innovation), free-to-play elements to the fore (NimbleBit’s Tiny Tower – for Best Handheld/Mobile Game), and even no visual display at all (Die Gute Fabrik’s Johann Sebastian Joust – for Innovation).

Overall, the Game Developers Choice Awards are open to any video game, with no restrictions or payment for game submission, with open nominations from a plethora of game professionals helping to choose this year’s finalists. Winners will now be selected by the Game Developers Choice Awards-specific International Choice Awards Network (ICAN), which is an invitation-only group comprised of 500 leading game creators from all parts of the video game industry.

The complete list of nominees for the 12th Annual Game Developers Choice Awards are as follows:
Best Game Design
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (Bethesda Game Studios)
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword (Nintendo)
Portal 2 (Valve)
Batman: Arkham City (Rocksteady Studios)
Dark Souls (FromSoftware)

Innovation
Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure (Toys For Bob)
Portal 2 (Valve)
Bastion (Supergiant Games)
Johann Sebastian Joust (Die Gute Fabrik)
L.A. Noire (Team Bondi)

Best Technology
Battlefield 3 (DICE)
L.A. Noire (Team Bondi)
Crysis 2 (Crytek Frankfurt/UK)
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (Bethesda Game Studios)
Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception (Naughty Dog)

Best Handheld/Mobile Game
Tiny Tower (NimbleBit)
Super Mario 3D Land (Nintendo)
Jetpack Joyride (Halfbrick)
Infinity Blade II (Chair Entertainment)
Superbrothers: Sword & Sworcery EP (Capy Games/Superbrothers)

Best Audio
Bastion (Supergiant Games)
LittleBigPlanet 2 (Media Molecule)
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (Bethesda Game Studios)
Dead Space 2 (Visceral Games)
Portal 2 (Valve)

Best Downloadable Game
Stacking (Double Fine)
From Dust (Ubisoft Montpellier)
Bastion (Supergiant Games)
Outland (Housemarque)
Frozen Synapse (Mode 7)

Best Narrative
Portal 2 (Valve)
The Witcher 2 (CD Projekt RED)
Bastion (Supergiant Games)
Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception (Naughty Dog)
Saints Row: The Third (Volition)

Best Debut 
Supergiant Games (Bastion)
Team Bondi (L.A. Noire)
Re-Logic (Terraria)
BioWare Austin (Star Wars: The Old Republic)
Eidos Montreal (Deus Ex: Human Revolution)

Best Visual Arts
Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception (Naughty Dog)
Rayman Origins (Ubisoft Montpellier)
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (Bethesda Game Studios)
El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron (Ignition Japan)
Battlefield 3 (DICE)

Game of the Year
Batman: Arkham City (Rocksteady Studios)
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (Bethesda Game Studios)
Portal 2 (Valve)
Deus Ex: Human Revolution (Eidos Montreal)
Dark Souls (FromSoftware)

In addition to the awards for individual games, the Game Developers Choice Awards committee will be announcing its Special Award recipients in the near future, including honourees for the Pioneer, Ambassador and Lifetime Achievement Special Awards – as well as revealing the identity of this year’s Game Developers Choice Awards host.

Winners in all major categories will be honoured at the Game Developers Choice Awards show, attended by more than 3,000 of the world’s leading video game developers, and taking place Wednesday, March 7th at 6:30 pm at the Moscone Convention Center during the 2012 Game Developers Conference in San Francisco.

In 2010, the Game Developers Choice Awards added a sister ceremony, the Game Developers Choice Online Awards which honors online and connected games, held during Austin’s GDC Online . Highlights from the 2011 ceremony, which awarded Trion Worlds’ Rift as Best New Online Game and Mojang’s Minecraft as Best Live Game, will be shown during the main Choice Awards ceremony in March.

For more information about the 12th Annual Game Developers Choice Awards, visit http://www.gamechoiceawards.com.  For information about the 2012 Game Developers Conference visit http://www.gdconf.com.

So Train2Game, which games do you think deserves to win awards at the Game Developers Choice Awards?

Leave your comments here on The Train2Game Blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

Train2Game news: Gabe Newell offers advice to aspiring game developers

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Train2Game students will know Gabe Newell as one of the most respected  veteran developers in the industry.

The Valve founder has spoken to Develop Online as part of their New Year, New Job feature and offers advice to those looking to begin their path into the games industry as an independent developer. It’s a must read for Train2Game students looking to found their own businesses.

The man behind the Half-Life series says the most important thing for an independent game developer is to treat their customers fairly.

“Do not focus on anyone but your customers. Your reputation will follow you forever so always be fair to your customers, and certainly one thing you need to always remember is that your customers are not going to be fooled.” Newell told Develop.

“Some people think they can get away with something and just hope people won’t see it through the bullshit. The internet is way smarter than any of us.”

“In terms of business, do not take out huge advances to fund projects, because they are only loans, and have strings attached.” he added.

Train2Game students have received advice about getting into the industry from Valve before, as part of to The Train2Game Blog interview with Chet Faliszek. The game writer told us that modding is “a really good way” to get noticed in the industry.

“It’s a really good way for someone to get noticed because it shows that you’re able” he told The Train2Game Blog.

“Normally modders have to work as a team and that’s important, and they also have to be able to finish something and that’s really important. So those two things together are a really good way to demonstrate that you’re ready to work in the industry.”

So Train2Game, what are your thoughts on Gabe Newell’s advice? Will you be taking it on board?

Leave your comments here on The Train2Game Blog, or on the Train2Game forum.

[Source: Develop Online]