Silicon Knights is currently working on X-Men Destiny for Activision, but the Canadian developer has much grander plans up its sleeve apparently. Today, McGuinty's Government said it would lend its support to the St. Catherines-based studio to help Silicon Knights create 80 new jobs as well as protect its existing 97 positions as the company looks to expand its production capabilities.
The big news is that Silicon Knights is working on a new "3D Game Development Engine that will include new advanced camera systems, improved audio and video and better computing technology." Furthermore, the new 3D tools will help the company "develop the next generation of gaming systems and become a self-sustainable, self-publishing company."
"With Ontario government support, we are better-positioned to further develop the 8th Art of video games. This will enhance our competitive edge within the highly-competitive video game market, help us become a self-sustainable, self-publishing entity, and allow us to enter lucrative global markets," said Denis Dyack, President of Silicon Knights.
"Our province continues to be an innovative leader in the high-growth, global video game market. Ontario's support to Silicon Knights will expand production of its unique, next-generation 3D Game Engine, target new markets, and create highly-skilled jobs for St. Catharines and the surrounding community," said Sandra Pupatello Minister of Economic Development and Trade.
It's not clear at the moment if this is a reference to the next generation of consoles. It's also a radical change for Silicon Knights if the studio will begin publishing its own content. We have questions in to Silicon Knights' representatives and we'll be sure to let you know more as soon as we hear back.
