One strike and you're out: Codemasters to close Bodycount studio

by Steven Mostyn - Sep 15 2011, 07:25

In the competitive world of videogames, it’s becoming increasingly evident that developers unable to produce instant retail hits face being shunted to the back of the unemployment line.

Case in point, third-party publisher Codemasters has announced plans to shutter the Guildford-based studio responsible for creating first-person shooter Bodycount, which has largely failed in its efforts to inspire consumers or critics.

According to Codemasters, its proposal to “retire” from its Guildford facility will likely affect some 66 members of staff—all of whom are currently involved in “a consultation period” to discuss their futures. Bodycount was the studio’s first creation.

However, it may not be all bad news as Codemasters claims those affected will be encouraged to apply for internal positions at the publisher’s Warwickshire and Birmingham studios.

Rather than being meaningless fluff designed to soften the parting blow, it’s worth noting that Codemasters is looking to expand overall campus size to accommodate the creation of a new racing title at its Birmingham studio.

News of Codemasters’ restructuring comes just two weeks after Disney Interactive announced the closure of Brighton-based developer Black Rock, which most recently crafted the much-ignored Split/Second.

Around the Web