Realtime Enters Administration

Rather sad news for the Scottish games industry today as is has been confirmed that Dave Jones’ Realtime Worlds has gone into administration. Last week the studio revealed that layoffs were underway as part of a restructuring plan to focus development on APB.
The troubles began following a lukewarm response to their GTA styled MMO action title APB, which although it had a relatively smooth launch, fell short of expectations from critics and the gaming community.
Begbies Traynor is handling the administration process. Comments from Begbies Traynor reps indicate that a buyer will be sought for the company and APB may continue to be developed and operated.
TIGA’s Richard Wilson commented: “This is a very sad day for Realtime Worlds, Dundee and for the Scottish and UK video games industry. Realtime Worlds is a fantastic company with an exceptionally talented team, management and board of directors.”
APB has shown huge potential as an online game and with any luck it can continue to operate. However it does require more development and the content really does need to be improved.