Activision attempts RTW staff rescue

They say every cloud has a silver lining – and tonight it seems Activision certainly sees some hope for staff at Realtime Worlds.

Although the developer went into administration today, placing the future of 200 jobs in question, the Guitar Hero publisher is stepping in to interview those threatened staff who are looking for work.

It’s common for publishers and developers to quickly set up support networks to find talented staff left out in the cold when studios go under or close – but Activision’s move tonight is swift and decisive.

Working with Scottish agency Specialmove, Activision is flying six staff to Dundee (Phil Hindle – Technical Director; Mike Rutter – Art Manager; James Horn – Senior Environment Artist; Neil Campbell – Lead Programmer; Graham Watson – Lead Programmer and Nikki Cooper – HR Manager).

Develop understands that on Thursday August 19th and Friday August 20th Activision Blizzard will host a special recruitment event at the Apex Hotel, City Quay, Dundee.

On Thursday evening from 6pm, the event will detail the latest vacancies and developments from Activision’s UK studios including Freestyle Games (DJ Hero) and Bizarre Creations (Blur, James Bond 007: Bloodstone).

Interested attendees will also be able to discuss vacancies outside the UK with Activision staff. After the presentations, attendees are invited to stay for ‘a free drink or two and chat informally about their career options with Activision staff’.

On Friday, August 20th, Activision staff will be carrying out selected ‘one to one’ interviews for key vacancies within the company.

"We’re looking forward to the opportunity to chat to you about the Activision independent studio model, our teams and latest projects," said Chris Lee, VP Studios, Activision (Europe).

"We understand it’s a difficult time for everyone involved and hope we’re able to provide some support and opportunity to anyone keen to consider roles with Activision."

“It is always disappointing to hear about the difficulties faced by development studios," offered Andy Campbell, CEO, Specialmove.

"It is our duty to support the industry and try to provide some assistance and opportunity to those talented staff affected by job losses. Activision is at a very exciting time, they have a wonderful network of talented studios in the UK and overseas. They can provide a secure option and the opportunity to work on some amazing games."

The event is actually open to anyone in the Dundee area – but registration is required to lodge your interest. Click here for more info.