CA NEWS
Flashman Relationship November 25, 2008
We're pleased to announce a strategic relationship
with Flashman Studios. Flashman will be assisting us with business management, helping us devote more time to what we
love - making games. Read more about it in Flashman's
press release.
Interview With CA Designer November 25, 2008
Here's an interesting interview with Colm Nelson,
one of our designers and one of several former Bungie employees.
Age Of Booty now on PlayStation Network November 13, 2008
Today Capcom released the PlayStation Network version of Age Of Booty, on their newly-launched Capcom Department.
Fire up your PS3's and set sail for the PlayStation Store! Only $9.99 will get you the finest Pirate Action-RTS you can
get on yer fine console, yarrr.
CA and Call of Duty: World at War November 11, 2008
If you just picked up a copy of Call of Duty: World at War you're looking at a bit of our handiwork. Activision and Treyarch tapped
us to co-develop the multiplayer for this latest Call of Duty game. We created four of the game's multiplayer maps: Roundhouse
(which was part of the recent Xbox Live multiplayer beta), Outskirts, Downfall, and Seelow. We contributed programming, audio, art
and design to the project, including work on the player reward system, several multiplayer modes, usability, and the player spawning
system. The game is receiving rave reviews, be sure to check it out!
Now accepting applications! November 7, 2008
We're looking for a Senior Graphics/Engine Programmer. If you want to work in a fun and creatively challenging environment with some of the best, this is the place for you.
On the cover of Game Developer Magazine November 6, 2008
The Age of Booty Postmortem made the cover of Game Developer Magazine. Our fearless
leader spills the beans on our victories and defeats during the 1 year AoB development cycle.
Come work for us! November 5, 2008
If you happen to be an office assistant and consider HTML and CSS your second language, while maintaining your love video games...
we want you!
Age of Booty is LIVE! October 18, 2008
We're proud to belatedly announce that Age of Booty is now available on
Xbox Live Arcade, with a free multiplayer trial. While you're at it, spare a few dubloons to show your pirate pride and
pickup some booty in our store.
Age of Booty Release Date September 29, 2008
Age of Booty is coming out the week of October 15th! Read more on our official
Age of Booty web site.
Age of Booty Website Updates Ahoy September 19, 2008
We've updated the site with info on the open Beta test and a few
contests that are running in recognition of Talk Like a Pirate Day.
New Age of Booty Site September 15, 2008
We just launched a brand-spankin'-new Age of Booty web site. Go
here to check it out.
New Job Opening September 7, 2008
We just posted a new job opening, this time for an Art Director. Let us know if you've got what we're
looking for.
Age of Booty Release Date September 29, 2008
Age of Booty is coming out the week of October 15th! Read more on our official
Age of Booty web site.
Age of Booty Website Updates Ahoy September 19, 2008
We've updated the site with info on the open Beta test and a few
contests that are running in recognition of Talk Like a Pirate Day.
New Age of Booty Site September 15, 2008
We just launched a brand-spankin'-new Age of Booty web site. Go
here to check it out.
New Job Opening September 7, 2008
We just posted a new job opening, this time for an Art Director. Let us know if you've got what we're
looking for.
Age of Booty Updates September 7, 2008
We have a developer diary for Age of Booty running at IGN
(http://blogs.ign.com/AgeOfBooty/)
and just posted the third entry. This time David Bowman chats with Howard Smith, one of our programmers, who describes his experience
joining the team right out of school. There's a comment feature, so let us know what you think and what else you'd like to hear about.
Capcom also has a section dedicated to Age of Booty on their community site,
http://www.capcom-unity.com/ageofbooty. In the most recent
thread Daryl from Capcom confirms that Age of Booty will be just $10 on all platforms-Xbox Live Arcade, PlayStation Network,
and Windows. That's ballsy, but we agree with Capcom's thinking: this is a game that you really need to get your hands on to
understand and appreciate, and so we're all for distributing it far and wide. Speaking of which, they have a whole slew of distribution
partners lined up on the PC. We'll post a complete list when we have it, but it's basically everyone we can think of.
Finally, the Capcom site also has some discussion about the pending Closed Beta of the Windows version. Oh, and the very first
every Age of Booty swag is on the way! We've been sneaking some time away from dev work to overhaul our AoB web site and the
aforementioned swag will be making its debut along with the site. Can't wait!
Breaking Out! August 16, 2008
Gamasutra just released their second annual list of 2008's
'breakout developers' and
Certain Affinity is on it! They cite our experience with Halo, Left 4 Dead, and Capcom but we think they just like our booty.
Thanks Gamasutra, just wait til you see what's next!
More Age of Booty Coverage August 15, 2008
We've submitted Age of Booty to Microsoft certification testing and now we're
waiting for the green light to launch. Capcom is talking about a late September or beginning of October release. Stay tuned and
we'll let you know as soon as it's firmed up. In the meantime you can get your AoB fix by reading new hands-on previews from
Gamepro and
IGN, or by checking out video footage from GameSpot's
On The Spot show
featuring Daryl Allison, Capcom's Senior Producer for the game.
Pickin' Up Good Nominations August 14, 2008
Age of Booty was a finalist in two categories in GameSpot's E3 2008 Editors' Choice Awards,
Best
Downloadable Game and
Best Strategy Game. Not bad for a $10 download, especially up against full retail strategy titles Spore, Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3,
Empire: Total War, and Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II! Thanks GameSpot!
Not to be outdone, Left 4 Dead took GameSpot's award for
Best Shooter,
beating out Far Cry, Gears 2, Project Origin, and Wanted. Awesome!
Age of Booty is Yummy at E3 July 18, 2008
Capcom showed off a close to final version of our game at E3. It's amazing how few people realize that
Age of Booty is a $10 downloadable title! I'm not sure if that's good or bad actually. Maybe you should judge
for yourself.
For an appetizer try a hands-on preview from
Joystiq
or GameSpot.
For a main course you'll definitely want to watch this live interview (a replay, but it's still warm) from
GameSpot.
Follow it all up with a brief preview from 1up.com
for dessert. Mmmmmmm, tasty!
Plunder = Age of Booty July 14, 2008
Capcom recently announced that the game formerly known as Plunder shall henceforth be known as
"Age of Booty". There's a long story behind this, but the short version is that due to
some difficulties securing the original name we collectively decided on a new, "cheekier" moniker. And yes,
we did consider "Call of Booty" (of course we did!), but that was pushing our rating--which, by the way is
officially E for everyone!
Age of Booty development is in the home stretch and Capcom is showing off the near-final game at E3 this week, so
watch the web for impressions. We also have a brand-spankin'-new web site for the game in the works, so visit us
again soon!
Oh, and before we forget, there's an interview with Max Hoberman about Plun... er, Age of Booty at the Belgian
gaming site X-power.
Age of Booty is Yummy at E3 July 18, 2008
Capcom showed off a close to final version of our game at E3. It's amazing how few people realize that
Age of Booty is a $10 downloadable title! I'm not sure if that's good or bad actually. Maybe you should judge
for yourself.
For an appetizer try a hands-on preview from
Joystiq
or GameSpot.
For a main course you'll definitely want to watch this live interview (a replay, but it's still warm) from
GameSpot.
Follow it all up with a brief preview from
1up.com for dessert. Mmmmmmm, tasty!
Plunder = Age of Booty July 14, 2008
Capcom recently announced that the game formerly known as Plunder shall henceforth be known as
"Age of Booty". There's a long story behind this, but the short version is that due to
some difficulties securing the original name we collectively decided on a new, "cheekier" moniker. And yes,
we did consider "Call of Booty" (of course we did!), but that was pushing our rating--which, by the way is
officially E for everyone!
Age of Booty development is in the home stretch and Capcom is showing off the near-final game at E3 this week, so
watch the web for impressions. We also have a brand-spankin'-new web site for the game in the works, so visit us
again soon!
Oh, and before we forget, there's an interview with Max Hoberman about Plun... er, Age of Booty at the Belgian
gaming site X-power.
Plunder at Captivate, Hiring June 9, 2008
Capcom put on a press event called "Captivate" in Las Vegas. This was mainly aimed at their full retail titles, but a few
greasy palms ensured that Plunder was also on display. Here are a few impressions from
IGN,
Game Informer,
and Destructiod.
In other news, we've officially filled our environment artist position. Thanks to everyone that applied. Next up, but
not yet officially announced, is another programmer opening, preferably a networking or graphics specialist.
Long Time No Update May 21, 2008
It's been quiet around here, but not for lack of activity. We officially have three
projects in the works, not counting an original title that's been put
on hold for a bit. (We just passed 25 full time staff, which is quite a
milestone!) We're currently wrapping up work on Plunder, Left 4 Dead is
really heating up, and we have a new gig that's so big it'll blow your
socks off. We're not at liberty to say what right now, but expect an
announcement in some form or fashion in the near future.
As for hiring, we've finally filled our IT Systems
Administrator job. I have to say, we had more qualified candidates
apply for this position than anything we've seen before. I wish we
could hire all of them, but unfortunately our IT needs aren't that
great. Thanks everyone for your interest.
New Job Opening, Capcom Interview April 14, 2008
We've closed our Technical Artist position, but have opened up another position, this time for a badass
IT Systems Administrator. If you're this particular ninja we'd love to
hear from you!
While you're brushing up on your IT skills also check out this
Gamasutra interview
with our good friend Christian Svensson, Capcom's VP of Strategic Planning & Business Development.
It's a great read, a rare honest glimpse at a publisher's mindset, and should give you a good idea
why we chose to partner with Capcom for Plunder.
Gamasutra Interview April 6, 2008
Max Hoberman spoke with Brandon Sheffield from Gamasutra at Capcom's Digital Day event. Read the full transcript
here. Topics include Plunder,
of course, but also the formation of Certain Affinity, platform politics, the politics of hexes, developing our own
engine, and other sundry bits.
Hiring Status Update March 21, 2008
We've seen an amazing amount of interest in our job openings, and especially in the designer position. This has been filled,
but we've never seen so many great designers before, so it was a tough call. Thanks everyone for applying, and sorry
we couldn't reach every one of you personally.
We do still have two openings, one for an Environment Artist and one for a
Technical Artist.
Plunder Previews March 14, 2008
Just a day after the online announcement of Plunder there are already a number of previews from press that
got hands-on time with the game at Capcom's Digital Day. Here's a list
of those we know about and a choice quote from each. Aaaarrr!!!
Ahoy, Matey! March 13, 2008
Our piratey real time action strategy game Plunder has been officially announced
for Xbox Live Arcade, Playstation Network, and Windows! We've partnered with Capcom to help bring the title to all
three platforms late Spring/early Summer. Go here for details.
Gettin' All Up In Our Business March 5, 2008
UPDATE We've filled this position, thanks for your interest!
Yes, we just opened another position, this time for what will be our first dedicated non-development role: we're
looking for an outstanding Business Operations Manager. If you know business
like nobody's business this might be the perfect opportunity to get your foot in the door at a handsome young
game company!
We Don't Condone Pirating March 4, 2008
Word is starting to leak about our
latest endeavor, an original title called Plunder
featured in the April issue of EGM magazine and being published by
Capcom. We can't say much about the game yet except confirm that it's
not a cruel April Fool's joke, but is indeed a real, honest to goodness
pirating action RTS! We'll have more info available in the very near
future.
Two More Job Openings February 25, 2008
In addition to the Level Builder position from a few days ago we've just opened up positions for
an Environment Artist and for a Technical Artist.
We have some incredible projects in the works, join us now instead of having regrets later!
New Job Opening February 23, 2008
We've just opened up a position for a Level Builder. If you have experience
and talent making beautiful and fantastically fun game environments take a look!
Romantic Gifts February 14, 2008
As a special Valentine's Day treat here's that shot of Left 4 Dead on
the cover of Official Xbox Magazine that we promised.
So now that we've managed to keep our word once about a pending update we'll up the stakes and go for a second time.
We have new positions about to open up so check back again soon!
Oh, and while you're in the mood also check out what's possibly the greatest article written on any web site, ever:
Skip Weasel's Guide to Love
Cat Outta The Bag February 4, 2008
The latest issue of OXM blew the cover on our involvement with Valve and Left 4 Dead. We can now confirm that yes,
indeed, we are working on this most awesome game and are responsible for the Xbox 360 version. Visit
the official Left 4 Dead web site for the gory details.
We'll post a shot of the magazine cover as soon as possible. Be sure to check back soon, we plan on updating
this site more frequently now that this is public and with progress on our other game progressing quickly.
It's Our Birthday! November 19, 2007
Alright, well it's a little more than a year since our immaculate conception, but who's counting?
It has certainly been memorable. One of our designers, Mike "Clopticon" Clopper, put together a
short list of highlights and memorable moments (including some we'd rather forget).
Hiring Spree Ending October 29, 2007
We've been on a hiring rampage but we're full, exhausted, and finally ready to rest. Check
back soon and we'll post some background on our fab 5 new hires. This brings our headcount
to a whopping 16. To everyone that applied but didn't get an offer, we really appreciate your
passion and your interest in Certain Affinity, and we had to make some unusually hard decisions.
Don't give up, check back soon for more openings!
New Job Opening! September 24, 2007
Let no one say we don't know how to ask for help. We're looking for a multi-talented
individual to join us as assistant producer/office manager.
What the?!! September 14, 2007
Prolonged Silence August 24, 2007
Alright, so we've obviously been doing something since finishing up the Halo 2 map pack. (And no, not just
playing games!) Actually, two somethings, both of which we can't say anything about! Mum's the word, and
unfortunately our poor web site ends up lonely and dejected. What we can say is that we'll be making a couple of
announcements later this year. In the meantime did we mention that we're hiring? Apply now to
beat the rush!
We've Moved! July 10, 2007
Certain Affinity has upgraded to a new "executive" suite. We have the
exclusive shots to prove it.
Shishka = Blog May 15, 2007
Our very own Shishka has his very own blog. Please help us keep tabs
on him to make sure he doesn't leak any critical information. So far he's just rambling about how he got hired at Certain
Affinity. If only he knew the truth.
Map Update News May 10, 2007
Bungie is reporting
that our maps will be integrated into matchmaking later this evening,
along with a playlist update. Make sure you download the updated
version of Tombstone first, we made a few minor fixes to some issues
that cropped up in the final build and that both we and Bungie's test
team overlooked. There will also be a complete reset of ranks to
coincide with the matchmaking update. They're also reporting that both
maps will be available for free in early July. We think that's awesome, especially given the
difficulty so many people have had getting them to download properly.
I'm also happy to announce that we have a MySpace site. Why do we have a MySpace site? I have no idea. But
here it is. Check out the pics from our Blastacular Map Pack launch party!
Fan Site and Map Download Fixes May 2, 2007
We're thrilled to report on the creation of the first ever CA fan site!
CertainAffinity.net is now online and promises to not only keep
tabs on us, but also has some exclusive content coming soon that we're sure you'll enjoy!
In other news, Bungie is finally
reporting
that the map downloading problems have been fixed. Woohoo! Sorry we
haven't been able to keep you up to date, these sorts of things are out
of our hands and unfortunately we're not able to comment on them.
Frankie hints at more news to come, we definitely recommend you check
back soon!
Halo 2 Maps Released! April 17, 2007
Tombstone and Desolation are now available on Xbox Live. Remember, use the in-game downloader to get these,
they're not available through Marketplace (more on this
here).
We hope you have as much fun playing these maps as we had making them!
Halo 2 Map Bonanza! April 11, 2007
We've posted a whole slew of new screenshots from our Halo 2 maps and a bunch of exclusive concept art.
Go check it out! These maps will be available for download on Xbox Live in exactly one week,
next Tuesday the 17th.
Bungie.net has posted an interview
with our art lead, Chris Wood, talking about the inspiration and
process behind the creation of the visuals for these maps. It's a great
read, don't miss it!
And finally, HaloGrid.com is hosting an Affinity Machinima Challenge
on our new Halo 2 maps! They're asking people to submit their best machinima featuring Tombstone and Desolation,
competing in 4 categories--action, comedy, montage, and music video. And yes, there are cash prizes. Are we eligible?
CA vs. Bungie: Humpday Challenge April 5, 2007
We took on Bungie in a 4v4 challenge on our new Halo 2 maps. Read all about it in Frankie's most humble
writeup!
CA Interview on Bungie.net April 4, 2007
Bungie has posted an interview
with Max Hoberman about the new maps and about CA's future.
In other news, Shishka has been demoted from company photographer.
Halo 2 Map Details on Bungie.net April 2, 2007
We've been so busy putting the final touches on Tombstone that we forgot to mention Frankie's
weekly update,
which is devoted almost entirely to shedding some light on these new maps. Thanks for the props, Frankie!
More to come, stay tuned.
Halo 2 Maps Revealed! March 30, 2007
Microsoft just sent out a press release announcing the two maps that we've developed for Halo 2! And yes,
one of them is a remake of Hang 'Em High! Read about it in their official press release.
"Halo 2" Fans Prepare for Battle as Exclusive New Maps Expand the Most Popular Title on Xbox LIVE
We've also posted an official screenshot of
Tombstone,
our Hang 'Em High remake, and of
Desolation. These maps
are scheduled for release for both Xbox 360 and Xbox (oh yeah, baby!) on April 17th, but check back soon, we've been
working with Bungie's community team and we hope to have a few goodies to share prior to that date.
Gamasutra Interview February 12, 2007
Max Hoberman spoke with Gamasutra
about his time at Bungie and working on the Halo series, the formation
of Certain Affinity, and the future of the new company.
CA Talks With GamesIndustry.biz January 23, 2006
GamesIndustry.biz stopped by a while back to chat with our president, Max Hoberman, and with Martin Galway, our audio
director and manager of operations. The full interview can be found
here.
CA News Roundup (Giddyup!) January 21, 2006
Happy belated New Year everyone! Sorry we haven't been posting much, it's related to that bit about not having much to
say until we're ready to show something. There is a bit of news out there though....
Games in Action has posted an
interview
with Shishka, our resident technical artist. Shishka sheds some light
on his ignominious entry into game development, tries to avoid leaking
anything about CA, and is generally far too bold. Worthy reading for
aspiring developers of all shapes and sizes.
FiringSquad also has an interview from December that we neglected to tell you about, this time
talking with Max Hoberman, our
resident fearless leader.
Interview With CA's Founder December 16, 2006
GameArena has posted an interview
with Max Hoberman. Topics include philosophy behind the online strategy for the Halo games, the future direction of online
gaming, and where CA is headed.
Announcement News Roundup December 14, 2006
Now that we've dropped our drawers, so to speak, people are taking note. We've pulled together some links to
articles about our formation (thanks for the coverage!) as well as a few choice
quotes from some of our most stalwart fans.
Welcome to Certain Affinity!!! December 13, 2006
Today
was a big day for CA! We put out our first public press release,
announcing our immaculate conception and spilling the beans on our
strategic partnership with Bungie and Microsoft developing multiplayer
maps for Halo 2. Read all about it!
CERTAIN AFFINITY, INC. PARTNERS WITH MICROSOFT GAME STUDIOS TO DEVELOP HALO CONTENT
Our friends and former colleagues at Bungie also posted an
interview with Max Hoberman, our fearless leader, to discuss his leaving
and his contribution to Halo 3.
Finally, don't forget that we have an open position for a Lead Environment Artist. If you
have the vision and expertise to fill this role apply now!
