Ubisoft to expand Moroccan studio

Ubisoft has announced plans to create 150 new jobs at its studio in Casablanca over the next three years with the aid of an incentive program run by the Moroccan Government.

The studio was established in 1998 and has contributed to the development of games such as King Kong and Prince of Persia: The Two Thrones. In addition, Ubisoft Casablanca developed DS versions of Rayman Raving Rabbids and Star Wars: Lethal Alliance, and is now working on the next DS instalment in the RRR series.

The Government is offering incentives to companies who create jobs and training opportunities in Morocco, and is particularly seeking to boost growth of the country's technology industries.

Ubisoft, which recruits staff from engineering and art colleges in Morocco, says it is the only videogame developer in North Africa. The studio will relocate within the region as part of the expansion plans.

"Ubisoft chose to create a studio in Casablanca with the knowledge that the local education system would provide talented people," said Ubisoft boss Yves Guillemot.

"Both the video game industry and the Moroccan economy are strong and growing, and we look forward to pioneering the industry in this exciting region."