Team 17 boss predicts bright future for UK development industry

Team 17's studio director, Martyn Brown, has told GamesIndustry.biz that prospects are finally improving for British development studios after years of struggle.

Speaking in an exclusive interview, to be published on GI.biz next week, Brown said: "People I've spoken to are generally very upbeat, and it's great to hear that after a number of quite difficult years for most independents.

"Obviously, there are fewer of us, and it's as hard as ever to actually get moving. And yes, development and publishing deals take an age to get any kind of ink on them. But I think there's a notable upswing in moods at the developers I've spoken with, certainly."

Team 17, is based in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, is one of the few remaining "Britsoft" studios to have survived. The studio is best known for producing the Worms series, and is now looking to maximise the opportunities offered by next-gen gaming.

"We can manage a full next-generation title using the fabulous Unreal 3 engine at the side of smaller side projects for Xbox 360 Live Arcade, and also up and coming things for Sony's digital platform on PS3," said Brown.

The Team 17 boss believes that expectations have been "a little unrealistic" with regard to the new consoles, but he added: "As ever, we're simply opting to bring high-definition, quality entertainment where we can - and making the most of the facilities and features offered by the new machines."

Visit GamesIndustry.biz next week to read the full interview and find out what Brown makes of the Wii, why he hopes Team 17 will remain independent and why the booth babes may be the only thing he'll miss about E3.