Game Developer May Issue Showcases Rock Band, Engine Showdown

Author: by Staff

The May 2008 issue of Game Developer magazine, the sister print publication to Gamasutra.com, and the leading U.S. trade publication for the video game industry, has shipped to subscribers and is available from the Game Developer Digital service in both subscription and single-issue formats, as well as a single physical issue. The cover feature for the issue is a postmortem of Harmonix's signature new music game franchise Rock Band, penned by lead designer Rob Kay and offering much insight into the title's development. As is explained in its description: "Witness Harmonix's transformation from a game developer to a peripheral manufacture hybrid, as the company undertakes its most ambitious game to date—one which comes close to fulfilling the studio's ultimate vision. From controller management to over-stretched leads, this postmortem chronicles the trials and tribulations of this innovative game." Another major feature in the new issue is 'Engines of Creation,' in which Jon Jordan takes a comprehensive look at an increasingly crucial part of game development, from Epic to Crytek and beyond: "Third-party licensed game engines are increasingly used in the development of high-profile titles. But which is right for you? Here, we lay the major entries' features side-by-side." In another signature feature, Paul Hyman describes the ins and outs of the current state of hiring in the rapidly shifting sands of the games industry, explaining: "The job market is hot right now, especially for developers with experience. This state of the industry report aims to discern what companies are really looking for." In addition, new design columnist BioWare Austin's Damion Schubert reflects on his trade in 'Design Of The Times: Idea Synthesis,' described as "...ruminations on collaborative design and humility as ways to get ahead as a game designer." Finally, in a new interview, Bungie artist Mike Zak discusses designing art for curious players, Halo's unique look, and Bungie's newfound independence. As always, the issue also contains the customary in-depth news, code, art, audio, and design columns from Game Developer's veteran correspondents, plus product reviews and editorial columns. Worldwide paper-based subscriptions to Game Developer magazine are currently available at the official magazine website, and the Game Developer Digital version of the issue is also now available, with the site offering six months' and a year's subscriptions, alongside access to back issues and PDF downloads of all issues, all for a reduced price. There is now also an opportunity to buy the digital version of May 2008's magazine as a single issue.