Train2Game News Student artwork gallery

Dan CableDan Cable is coming to the end of his course with Train2Game and we have every confidence he’ll go on to do some incredible things in the gaming world.

We’ve highlighted some of our favourite pieces of his work, but if you’d like to see more art and 3D Gifs then visit his work thread on the forum.
http://forum.train2game.com/showthread.php/14286-Wyldeone1978-s-Work-Thread/page6

In a post Dan wrote on the Train2Game forum and said of the course: “I gotta say, I’m partly sad it’s over (or nearly) but it’s been a long road to get here. I’m a little disappointed I took so long (3 Years) as I think I committed too much time to things like BF3/4 and iRacing rather than get my head down with this. For the money spent I think I’ve got a great value education and a great understanding of the core principles involved in game art.”

We’ve approached Dan for an interview and he’ll be getting back to us as soon as he finishes his course work!

You can view some of Dans artwork in the gallery below

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Train2Game News UK Top 20 games – 16.03.15

GTA VAnother week another quiet charts. GTA V has re taken the number one spot and the only new games to enter the charts are special editions of previous games. The DMC: Definitive Edition has entered the chart at number five and Sniper Elite 3: Ultimate Edition has entered the chart at number ten.

All formats

Week ending 14 March 2015

POS.  TITLE  PUBLISHER  LAST
WEEK 
1 GRAND THEFT AUTO V ROCKSTAR 2
2 DYING LIGHT WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE 1
3 FIFA 15 EA SPORTS 3
4 MINECRAFT: XBOX EDITION MICROSOFT 6
5 DMC: DEFINITIVE EDITION CAPCOM
6 CALL OF DUTY: ADVANCED WARFARE ACTIVISION 4
7 MINECRAFT: PLAYSTATION EDITION SONY COMPUTER ENT. 10
8 EVOLVE 2K GAMES 9
9 ZOMBIE ARMY TRILOGY SOLD OUT SALES & MARKETING 8
10 SNIPER ELITE 3: ULTIMATE EDITION 505 GAMES
11 DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE BANDAI NAMCO GAMES 5
12 WWE 2K15 2K SPORTS 13
13 TERRARIA XBOX 360 CLASSICS 14
14 FORZA HORIZON 2 MICROSOFT 15
15 FAR CRY 4 UBISOFT 11
16 THE CREW UBISOFT 19
17 DISNEY INFINITY 2.0 DISNEY INFINITY 17
18 DESTINY ACTIVISION 12
19 THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: MAJORA’S MASK 3D NINTENDO 16
20 LEGO BATMAN 3: BEYOND GOTHAM WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE 14
< previous week
Leisure software charts compiled by Chart Track, (C)2015 UKIE Ltd

These charts cannot be reproduced either in print or online without obtaining permission from Ukie. If you wish to reproduce the charts in print or online, please contact david.smith@ukie.org.uk for the appropriate license.

Train2Game News UK Game Charts – 10.03.15

dying lightA very quiet chart this week with Dying Light remaining at number one. There is only new game in the charts this week which is Sold Out’s Zombie Trilogy at number eight.

All formats

Week ending 7 March 2015

POS.  TITLE  PUBLISHER  LAST
WEEK 
1 DYING LIGHT WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE 1
2 GRAND THEFT AUTO V ROCKSTAR 5
3 FIFA 15 EA SPORTS 6
4 CALL OF DUTY: ADVANCED WARFARE ACTIVISION 2
5 DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE BANDAI NAMCO GAMES 3
6 MINECRAFT: XBOX EDITION MICROSOFT 9
7 THE ORDER: 1886 SONY COMPUTER ENT. 4
8 ZOMBIE ARMY TRILOGY SOLD OUT SALES & MARKETING
9 EVOLVE 2K GAMES 8
10 MINECRAFT: PLAYSTATION EDITION SONY COMPUTER ENT. 10
11 FAR CRY 4 UBISOFT 7
12 DESTINY ACTIVISION 11
13 WWE 2K15 2K SPORTS 17
14 TERRARIA XBOX 360 CLASSICS 19
15 FORZA HORIZON 2 MICROSOFT 12
16 THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: MAJORA’S MASK 3D NINTENDO 14
17 DISNEY INFINITY 2.0 DISNEY INFINITY 16
18 SAINTS ROW IV RE-ELECTED/GAT OUT OF HELL DEEP SILVER
19 THE CREW UBISOFT 18
20 ASSASSIN’S CREED: UNITY UBISOFT 13
< previous week
Leisure software charts compiled by Chart Track, (C)2015 UKIE Ltd

These charts cannot be reproduced either in print or online without obtaining permission from Ukie. If you wish to reproduce the charts in print or online, please contact david.smith@ukie.org.uk for the appropriate license.

Train2Game News UK Top 20 Games – 02.03.15

dying lightA new week and once again a new number one in the charts with the popular Dying Light shining in top spot. Dragon Ball Xenoverse has debuted at number three and further down the charts at number fifteen The Last Of Us Remastered has made a return.

All formats
Week ending 28 February 2015

POS.  TITLE  PUBLISHER  LAST
WEEK 
1 DYING LIGHT WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE
2 CALL OF DUTY: ADVANCED WARFARE ACTIVISION 2
3 DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE BANDAI NAMCO GAMES
4 THE ORDER: 1886 SONY COMPUTER ENT. 1
5 GRAND THEFT AUTO V ROCKSTAR 5
6 FIFA 15 EA SPORTS 6
7 FAR CRY 4 UBISOFT 4
8 EVOLVE 2K GAMES 3
9 MINECRAFT: XBOX EDITION MICROSOFT 7
10 MINECRAFT: PLAYSTATION EDITION SONY COMPUTER ENT. 9
11 DESTINY ACTIVISION 10
12 FORZA HORIZON 2 MICROSOFT 19
13 ASSASSIN’S CREED: UNITY UBISOFT 11
14 THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: MAJORA’S MASK 3D NINTENDO 8
15 THE LAST OF US: REMASTERED SONY COMPUTER ENT.
16 DISNEY INFINITY 2.0 DISNEY INFINITY 17
17 WWE 2K15 2K SPORTS 13
18 THE CREW UBISOFT 16
19 TERRARIA XBOX 360 CLASSICS 15
20 CALL OF DUTY: GHOSTS ACTIVISION 20
< previous week
Leisure software charts compiled by Chart Track, (C)2015 UKIE Ltd

These charts cannot be reproduced either in print or online without obtaining permission from Ukie. If you wish to reproduce the charts in print or online, please contact david.smith@ukie.org.uk for the appropriate license.

Train2Game News Babcock Vacancies

Babcock-logoSkills2Learn, a Babcock International Group Company, is a dynamic company based in Milton Keynes specialising in cutting edge e-learning and games-based (‘Serious Games’) learning solutions.
Job Description
Lead 3D Generalist/Artist
South East – Milton Keynes
FTC – 12 Months

Skills2Learn, a Babcock International Group Company, is a dynamic company based in Milton Keynes specialising in cutting edge, game-based e-learning (‘Serious Games’) solutions. We are looking for a 3D Lead 3D Generalist / Artist to join our growing 3D team and be part of one the driving forces behind Skills2Learn’s success. The lead 3D artist will be overseeing a team of 3D modellers & animators that will be producing renders for e-learning programmes.
Using the latest online technologies, we develop engaging, fully interactive, award winning virtual reality computer based training programmes that are used by a wide range of commercial companies around the world, such (British Gas, Centrica, National Grid, Saudi Aramco) and educational establishments all over the UK.

Responsibilities
Lead, Manage & Mentor and 3D Artist’s.
Resolve problems and find solutions to technical 3D challenges
Lead production and team meetings.
Implement constructive feedback and art direction effectively.
Strong ability to model/texture/animate/light
Highly proficient in 3D Studio Max and Photoshop.
Protecting assets from unauthorized access, disclosure, modification, destruction or interference
Comply with the Data Protection Act 1998

Advantage to have knowledge of:
o Unity 3D or similar games engine.
o Creating characters using DAZ 3D.
o Video editing using Camtasia/After effects/Premiere.
o Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)

Qualifications & Requirements
Strong technical and creative 3D background with ability to grasp new programs and systems quickly.
Technical minded individual with an interest in engineering / Hard surface modelling.
Understanding of Hard surface modelling techniques, with an interest in vehicles and Mechanical based assets.
Proven leader teams including 3D artists and animators
Strong communication and time management skills.
Problem solving abilities.
Ability to adapt and strengthen workflows if required.
Be creative and have an eye for detail.
Show initiative and be able to develop ideas.
Work effectively as part of a team or individually.

Security
Offers of employment are normally subject to satisfactory references and any other required pre-employment checks. In certain circumstances, successful applicants will need to satisfy security clearance requirements

Description of Location
South East – Milton Keynes

Company Information
Babcock is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.

Application Information
Send us a cover letter that includes full contact information, reasons for application, travel considerations and salary expectations. An up-to-date CV and evidence of work (3D modelling and texturing showing mesh detail).
Please Note: Applications without a portfolio will not be considered.

APPLY HERE

Job Description
3D Animator/Artist
South East – Milton Keynes
FTC – 12 Months

Skills2Learn, a Babcock International Group Company, is a dynamic company based in Milton Keynes specialising in cutting edge, game-based e-learning (‘Serious Games’) solutions. We are looking for a 3D Animator / Artist to join our growing 3D team and be part of one the driving forces behind Skills2Learn’s success. The 3D animator will be animating 3D models to producing render sequences for e-learning programmes.

Using the latest online technologies, we develop engaging, fully interactive, award winning virtual reality computer based training programmes that are used by a wide range of commercial companies around the world, such (British Gas, Centrica, National Grid, Saudi Aramco) and educational establishments all over the UK.

Responsibilities
Animate realistic objects using 3D Studio Max.
Proficient using animation tools in 3D Studio Max.
Basic modelling & texturing using 3D Studio Max.

Advantage to have knowledge of:
o Character animation – bvh, skin modifier, skin weighting.
o Unity 3D or similar games engine.
o Creating characters using DAZ 3D.
o Video editing using Camtasia/After effects/Premiere.
o Understand the FBX export restrictions for game engines.
o Lighting principles & rendering

Qualifications & Requirements
Technically minded individual with interest in engineering.
Interest in vehicles and mechanical animation.
Knowledge of animation for game engines.
Problem solving abilities.
Accuracy and attention to detail.
Be creative and have an eye for detail.
Show initiative and be able to develop ideas.
Work effectively as part of a team or individually.
Good communication skills.

Security
Offers of employment are normally subject to satisfactory references and any other required pre-employment checks. In certain circumstances, successful applicants will need to satisfy security clearance requirements

Description of Location
South East – Milton Keynes

Company Information
Babcock is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.

Application Information
Send us a cover letter that includes full contact information, reasons for application, travel considerations and salary expectations. An up-to-date CV and evidence of work (3D modelling and texturing showing mesh detail).
Please Note: Applications without a portfolio will not be considered.

APPLY HERE

Job Description
3D Modeller/Artist
South East – Milton Keynes
FTC – 12 Months

Skills2Learn, a Babcock International Group Company, is a dynamic company based in Milton Keynes specialising in cutting edge, game-based e-learning (‘Serious Games’) solutions. We are looking for a 3D Modeller / Artist to join our growing 3D team and be part of one the driving forces behind Skills2Learn’s success. The 3D modeller will be modelling objects in 3D and producing renders for e-learning programmes.

Using the latest online technologies, we develop engaging, fully interactive, award winning virtual reality computer based training programmes that are used by a wide range of commercial companies around the world, such (British Gas, Centrica, National Grid, Saudi Aramco) and educational establishments all over the UK.

Responsibilities
Model and texture 3D objects assets and environments.
Proficient using 3D Studio Max.
Proficient using Photoshop.
Light scenes & rendering using Mental Ray.
Produce high quality / photorealistic renders.
Advantage to have knowledge of:
Basic animation principles
Unity 3D or similar games engine.
3D Asset optimisation for Game Engines.
Creating characters using DAZ 3D.
Video editing using Camtasia/After effects/Premiere.

Qualifications & Requirements
Ability to create realistic based assets via photographic reference with correct Scales/dimensions.
Technically minded individual with interest in Engineering based design.
Understanding of Hard surface modelling techniques, with an interest in vehicles and Mechanical based assets.
Accuracy and attention to detail.
Problem solving abilities.
Be creative and have an eye for detail.
Show initiative and be able to develop ideas.
Work effectively as part of a team or individually.
Good communication skills.

Security
Offers of employment are normally subject to satisfactory references and any other required pre-employment checks. In certain circumstances, successful applicants will need to satisfy security clearance requirements

Description of Location
South East – Milton Keynes

Company Information
Babcock is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.

Application Information
Send us a cover letter that includes full contact information, reasons for application, travel considerations and salary expectations. An up-to-date CV and evidence of work (3D modelling and texturing showing mesh detail).
Please Note: Applications without a portfolio will not be considered.

APPLY HERE

Project Manager
South East – Milton Keynes
FTC – 12 Months

Skills2Learn, a Babcock International Group Company, is a dynamic business based in Milton Keynes specialising in cutting edge e-learning and games-based, e-learning (‘Serious Games’) and Virtual Reality solutions.
We have an exciting opportunity for a project manager / co-ordinator to oversee resource and project planning, manage projects and ensure that they are delivered on time and on budget.

Responsibilities:
Monitoring, planning. scheduling and reporting on projects
Project management of e-learning and 3D/VR training & assessment based programmes
Liaising with suppliers, internal and external stakeholders
Managing the review & sign off process required to move projects forward on schedule
Tracking of project spend and maintaining tight control of the budget
Working closely with clients to request, review and provide feedback on project information
Co-ordinating development team members
Define and schedule of tasks of the project and produces Project Plan
Identify issues and resolve by implementing counter measures as appropriate
Ensure quality of project deliverables
Protecting assets from unauthorized access, disclosure, modification, destruction or interference
Comply with the Data Protection Act 1998

Qualifications & Requirements:
Experience in project management / co-ordination of e-learning or software development
Relevant Qualification or training
Experience of managing a team
Experience of project co-ordination in e-learning, software development or similar field is very beneficial
Excellent organisational skills
Highly proficient in Microsoft Office (Word/Excel/Project)
Ability to multi-task and prioritise
Adaptable to project requirements
Exceptional written and communication skills.
People skills to lead, direct and motivate team members

Security:
Offers of employment are normally subject to satisfactory references and any other required pre-employment checks. In certain circumstances, successful applicants will need to satisfy security clearance requirements

Description of Location:
South East – Milton Keynes

Company Information:
Babcock is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.

Application Information:
Please include a detailed CV with a full work history. Please also ensure you provide an explanation for any gaps in employment.

APPLY HERE

Job Description
Graphic/Multimedia Developer
South East – Milton Keynes
FTC – 12 Months

Skills2Learn, a Babcock International Group Company, is a dynamic company based in Milton Keynes specialising in cutting edge e-learning and games-based (‘Serious Games’) learning solutions.
We are looking for a Graphic/Multimedia Developer to join the multimedia team and get involved in creating the dynamic and innovative e-learning. You will develop a range of creative e-learning solutions for multiple platforms and delivery channels.

Responsibilities
Creating e-learning content using a range of tools
Create and animate graphics.
Design and develop highly interactive learning content.
Adapting and modifying existing project code.
Work alongside development teams.
Work to deadlines and budgets.
Research new technologies and methods.
Protecting assets from unauthorized access, disclosure, modification, destruction or interference
Comply with the Data Protection Act 1998

Qualifications & Requirements
Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite software such as Photoshop, Flash, Dreamweaver.
Good graphical design skills.
Knowledge of rapid e-learning tools such as Articulate Captivate is very desirable
Experience of Actionscript/JavaScript programming is desirable
Web design experience desirable (HTML/Javascript/CSS)
Problem solving abilities.
Accuracy and attention to detail.
Be creative and have an eye for detail.
Show initiative and be able to develop ideas.
Work effectively as part of a team or individually.
Good communication skills.

Security
Offers of employment are normally subject to satisfactory references and any other required pre-employment checks. In certain circumstances, successful applicants will need to satisfy security clearance requirements

Description of Location
South East – Milton Keynes

Company Information
Babcock is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.

Application Information
Cover letter that includes full contact information, reasons for application, travel considerations and salary expectations.

An up-to-date CV and portfolio of work (personal or professional images or showreel).
Please Note: Applications without a portfolio will not be considered

APPLY HERE

Job Description
Instructional Designer
South East – Milton Keynes
FTC – 12 Month

Skills2Learn, a Babcock International Group Company, is a dynamic company based in Milton Keynes specialising in cutting edge e-learning and games-based (‘Serious Games’) learning solutions.

We are looking for a talented Instructional Designer to fill a key role in a creative team. You will design inventive e-learning and simulation/scenario based learning experiences that push the boundaries of digital training.
The role requires a technically oriented, creative and motivated individual with an e-learning background.

Responsibilities
Create engaging e-learning scripts and simulation/scenario storyboards.
Author assessment questions for course materials.
Training Needs Analysis and development of learning objectives where required.
Collaborate with Subject Matter Experts, clients and the development team.
Review scripts to ensure quality and consistency throughout.
Work co-operatively with all levels in the organisation to ensure instructional design standards are maintained.
Work to deadlines and budgets.
Protecting assets from unauthorized access, disclosure, modification, destruction or interference
Comply with the Data Protection Act 1998

Qualifications & Requirements
A strong understanding of and a passion for eLearning and Learning Technologies
Proven track record of designing and delivering e-learning.
Strong technical and creative design knowledge.
Experience of instructional design for technical subjects is desirable
Excellent written and spoken English.
Excellent communication and client facing skills.
Understanding of e-learning development tools and delivery.
Ability to script e-learning in varying styles appropriate to the subject, target audience and technical constraints.
Accuracy and attention to detail (excellent quality assurance).
Show initiative and be able to develop ideas.
Superior time management and multi-tasking skills.
Ability to understand and work within technical constraints.

Security
Offers of employment are normally subject to satisfactory references and any other required pre-employment checks. In certain circumstances, successful applicants will need to satisfy security clearance requirements.

Description of Location
South East – Milton Keynes

Company Information
Babcock is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.

Application Information
Send a cover letter that includes full contact information, reasons for application, travel considerations and salary expectations.

An up-to-date CV and evidence of work (personal or professional scripts or storyboards).
Due to the high level of response we normally receive, if you have not heard from us within 6 weeks please assume you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.

APPLY HERE

Job Description
Lead ELearning/Multimedia Developer
South East – Milton Keynes
FTC – 12 Months

We are looking for an experienced Lead E-Learning/Multimedia Developer to join the multimedia team and get involved in creating the dynamic and highly innovative e-learning. You will lead the development of a range of creative e-learning solutions for multiple platforms and delivery channels.

Responsibilities
Creating e-learning content using a range of tools
Create and animate graphics.
Lead the design and development highly interactive learning content.
Adapting and modifying existing project code.
Co-ordinate with other team members and managers
Work to deadlines and budgets.
Research new technologies and methods.
Oversee and manage other team members
Ensure high production values are maintained
Protecting assets from unauthorized access, disclosure, modification, destruction or interference
Comply with the Data Protection Act 1998

Qualifications & Requirements
Knowledge of rapid e-learning tools such as Articulate Captivate / Articulate Storyline
Understanding of good instruction design principles
Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite software such as Photoshop, Flash, Dreamweaver.
Good graphical design skills.
Experience of Actionscript/JavaScript programming is desirable
Team leadership skills
Problem solving abilities.
Accuracy and attention to detail.
Be creative and have an eye for detail.
Show initiative and be able to develop ideas.
Work effectively as part of a team or individually.
Good communication skills.

Security
Offers of employment are normally subject to satisfactory references and any other required pre-employment checks. In certain circumstances, successful applicants will need to satisfy security clearance requirements

Description of Location
South East – Milton Keynes

Company Information
Babcock is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.

Application Information
Send us a cover letter that includes full contact information, reasons for application, travel considerations and salary expectations.

An up-to-date CV and portfolio of work (personal or professional images or showreel).
Please Note: Applications without a portfolio will not be considered.

APPLY HERE

Train2Game News UK Top 20 Games – 23.02.15

the-order-1886Sony’s The Order:1886 has taken the number one spot in the charts this week but will it hold on for long? Last weeks number one, Evolve, has fallen to number three. The rest of the charts are quiet and have stayed similar to previous weeks.

All formats
Week ending 21 February 2015

POS.  TITLE  PUBLISHER  LAST
WEEK 
1 THE ORDER: 1886 SONY COMPUTER ENT.
2 CALL OF DUTY: ADVANCED WARFARE ACTIVISION 3
3 EVOLVE 2K GAMES 1
4 FAR CRY 4 UBISOFT 7
5 GRAND THEFT AUTO V ROCKSTAR 5
6 FIFA 15 EA SPORTS 6
7 MINECRAFT: XBOX EDITION MICROSOFT 8
8 THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: MAJORA’S MASK 3D NINTENDO 2
9 MINECRAFT: PLAYSTATION EDITION SONY COMPUTER ENT. 11
10 DESTINY ACTIVISION 10
11 ASSASSIN’S CREED: UNITY UBISOFT 9
12 MONSTER HUNTER 4 ULTIMATE CAPCOM 4
13 WWE 2K15 2K SPORTS 13
14 LEGO BATMAN 3: BEYOND GOTHAM WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE 15
15 TERRARIA XBOX 360 CLASSICS 18
16 THE CREW UBISOFT 12
17 DISNEY INFINITY 2.0 DISNEY INFINITY 16
18 MIDDLE EARTH: SHADOW OF MORDOR WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE 17
19 FORZA HORIZON 2 MICROSOFT 20
20 CALL OF DUTY: GHOSTS ACTIVISION 14
< previous week
Leisure software charts compiled by Chart Track, (C)2015 UKIE Ltd

These charts cannot be reproduced either in print or online without obtaining permission from Ukie. If you wish to reproduce the charts in print or online, please contact david.smith@ukie.org.uk for the appropriate license.

Train2Game News GameBlastLIVE Stream

SpecialEffectGameBlastLIVE, a Children in Need style 24 livestream, will be anchoring SpecialEffect’s GameBlast gaming marathon event this weekend.

Streamed from the London headquarters of industry trade body UKIE, the show will feature interviews with top gaming figures, playthroughs of new game content, gaming merchandise giveaways and regular updates from the hundreds of teams across the world taking part in the charity fundraiser.

The livestream starts at 10am on Saturday and can be seen at http://www.twitch.tv/gameblastlive

Highlights of the stream include:

  • The Oliver brothers from SkySaga, who will be reflecting on 20 years in the industry before a gameplay session.
  • Kate Russell will be battling through hyperspace with some top Elite antics.
  • PocketGamer will be on the sofa talking and showing the best of mobile entertainment.
  • Team17 will be live from their headquarters, scrambling their way out of The Escapists.
  • The team from Bossa will be slicing through I Am Bread, before things get messy with Surgeon Simulator.
  • Go8Bit will be creating mayhem in the studio with gameshow and forfeit challenges.

GameBlast, the UK’s largest charity gaming marathon, swings into action on Friday with the aim of raising over £100,000 for gamer’s charity SpecialEffect.

The challenge event, which will run from 20-22 February, has attracted over 250 individuals and gaming teams from across the world. They’ll be running their own gaming marathons at times over the weekend – some up to 24 hours in length – and asking for online sponsorship to hit their fundraising targets.

Big names in the gaming industry are involved, including retail giant GAME, online games developer Jagex and global video streamers Twitch. In total over 50 companies from the industry are involved in various ways, from hosting their own 24 hour staff marathons to contributing to the prize giveaways.

The aim is to raise money for the work of SpecialEffect, who help people with physical disabilities to benefit from the fun, friendship and inclusion of video games.

For more details about GameBlast, see http://www.specialeffect.org.uk/gameblast

Train2Game News UK Top 20 Games – 16.02.15

EvolveAfter a few quiet weeks the top of the charts have received new blood! Evolve is the new number one with the re-release of Majora’s Mask on the 3DS is at number two. A couple down from that at number four is Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate. The rest of the charts have stayed mostly the same.

All formats
Week ending 14 February 2015

POS.  TITLE  PUBLISHER  LAST
WEEK 
1 EVOLVE 2K GAMES
2 THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: MAJORA’S MASK 3D NINTENDO
3 CALL OF DUTY: ADVANCED WARFARE ACTIVISION 1
4 MONSTER HUNTER 4 ULTIMATE CAPCOM
5 GRAND THEFT AUTO V ROCKSTAR 2
6 FIFA 15 EA SPORTS 3
7 FAR CRY 4 UBISOFT 9
8 MINECRAFT: XBOX EDITION MICROSOFT 5
9 ASSASSIN’S CREED: UNITY UBISOFT 4
10 DESTINY ACTIVISION 7
11 MINECRAFT: PLAYSTATION EDITION SONY COMPUTER ENT. 6
12 THE CREW UBISOFT 10
13 WWE 2K15 2K SPORTS 11
14 CALL OF DUTY: GHOSTS ACTIVISION 8
15 LEGO BATMAN 3: BEYOND GOTHAM WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE 14
16 DISNEY INFINITY 2.0 DISNEY INFINITY 17
17 MIDDLE EARTH: SHADOW OF MORDOR WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE 15
18 TERRARIA XBOX 360 CLASSICS 13
19 WATCH DOGS UBISOFT 16
20 FORZA HORIZON 2 MICROSOFT 19
< previous week
Leisure software charts compiled by Chart Track, (C)2015 UKIE Ltd

These charts cannot be reproduced either in print or online without obtaining permission from Ukie. If you wish to reproduce the charts in print or online, please contact david.smith@ukie.org.uk for the appropriate license.

Train2Game News UK video games market worth

image

Leading video games business publication MCV has revealed that the UK video games market generated £3.944bn of consumer spending in 2014.

Working in conjunction with trade body Ukie (UK interactive entertainment), MCV’s research compiles the amount spent across video games and related products – from downloads to consoles, licensed toys to mobile games.

The £3.944bn includes the spending on new boxed games, pre owned games, hardware and accessories, digital sales on all games formats plus merchandise, events, plus games-related books and magazines.

The number is 13 per cent higher than 2013’s figure, when the UK market reached £3.48bn.

This year’s data includes £1.048bn for digital console and PC content (based on IHS estimates), £915m on console hardware (Chart-Track figures), £106.8m on pre-owned software (Kantar Worldpanel) and £69m on toys (NPD figures). For the full breakdown, check out the attached infographic.

The best-selling video game soundtrack of 2014 was ‘The Music of Grand Theft Auto V’, the most popular video game-based movie was Need for Speed, while the best-selling video game-based book was Minecraft: The Official Construction Book.

“£3.944bn is the second-highest figure in games industry history and just narrowly misses out on eclipsing the £4bn generated in 2008 when Guitar Hero, Wii and DS ruled the charts,” said MCV editor Christopher Dring.

“Almost every sector of the market is in growth, and 2015 is set to be even better, with new blockbusters such as Uncharted, Zelda, Halo and Star Wars; highly anticipated new technologies such as Oculus Rift and Steam Machines, plus new business models around games subscriptions and streaming. It’s a good time to be involved in the video games business.”

Ukie CEO Dr Jo Twist commented on the evaluation “It’s fantastic the see the consumer market thriving and growing. Impressive figures like these help reinforce the importance of our sector to policy makers and the media, strengthening our standing globally as a key market in the digital economy.”

The data was revealed to industry professionals at a behind-closed-doors presentation this morning, and will be the subject of tomorrow’s edition of MCV (Friday, February 13th).

Train2Game News UK Top 20 Games – 09.02.15

Call of Duty Advanced WarfighterDeja Vu in the charts this week as no new games have entered and the top three games remain exactly the same as last week with Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare at the top, followed by Grand Theft Auto V and FIFA 15 in the third space.

All formats

Week ending 7 February 2015

POS.  TITLE  PUBLISHER  LAST
WEEK 
1 CALL OF DUTY: ADVANCED WARFARE ACTIVISION 1
2 GRAND THEFT AUTO V ROCKSTAR 2
3 FIFA 15 EA SPORTS 3
4 ASSASSIN’S CREED: UNITY UBISOFT 8
5 MINECRAFT: XBOX EDITION MICROSOFT 5
6 MINECRAFT: PLAYSTATION EDITION SONY COMPUTER ENT. 9
7 DESTINY ACTIVISION 10
8 CALL OF DUTY: GHOSTS ACTIVISION 7
9 FAR CRY 4 UBISOFT 6
10 THE CREW UBISOFT 11
11 WWE 2K15 2K SPORTS 12
12 SAINTS ROW IV RE-ELECTED/GAT OUT OF HELL DEEP SILVER 4
13 TERRARIA XBOX 360 CLASSICS 13
14 LEGO BATMAN 3: BEYOND GOTHAM WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE 15
15 MIDDLE EARTH: SHADOW OF MORDOR WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE 14
16 WATCH DOGS UBISOFT 18
17 DISNEY INFINITY 2.0 DISNEY INFINITY 20
18 ASSASSIN’S CREED IV: BLACK FLAG UBISOFT 19
19 FORZA HORIZON 2 MICROSOFT 19
20 DRAGON AGE: INQUISITION EA GAMES 17
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