Realtime Worlds Appoints New Senior Managers

APB developer Realtime Worlds has announced the appointment of Brian Ullrich as director of development and Robert Rice as vice president of online operations, as the company moves closer to the launch of its second title. Ullrich boasts 20 years experience in the industry and has held senior positions at Nintendo, Software Creations, DMA Design, VR-1, LithTech, Microsoft and, most recently, Electronic Arts. He will report directly to CEO David Jones and will take charge of all development at the company’s Scottish development studio. Rice was previously director of network and security operations at NCsoft, with responsibilities covering both U.S. and European data centers and development studios. He will now lead the operations team supporting Realtime Worlds’ data and game operations centers, billing and customer support. Already known for Xbox 360 title Crackdown, Realtime Worlds was founded by original Grand Theft Auto creator David Jones in 2002, alongside fellow British industry veterans Ian Hetherington and Tony Harman. Massively multiplayer online game APB is tentatively scheduled for release in 2009. “We’re delighted to have individuals of such high calibre come on board. Their wealth of experience will be invaluable in continuing the company’s success and of achieving the ambitious goals we have for the next few years,” said Jones.