By Maria Pidgeon | Innovate 518
The Albany County-Based Video Game Developer, Vicarious Visions, and developer to the popular video game development brand Activision, who is responsible for video games such as the Call of Duty Franchise, will be expanding in the area creating over 100 new jobs.
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that the company will be investing more than $7.3 million to move into over 44,000 square feet of studio space in Colonie.
“The Capital Region has become a hub for video game development, thanks in part to local game developers and world-class degree programs available at nearby colleges and universities,” Governor Cuomo said. “With companies like Vicarious Visions choosing to remain and expand in the Capital Region, we will continue to support their growth and the creative talent they help attract to the region.”
Vicarious Visions has been growing in the Capital Region for years, and an excellent addition to the local tech economy, creating a number of high-tech job opportunities for the region. The company will invest more than $7.3 million in a new, state-of-the-art studio, which includes professional audio suites, a virtual reality room, 80s and 90s style arcade machines, as well as collaboration spaces designed to enhance creativity and the employee experience. The company is expected to move in late September to early October, and believes the amenities will attract talented new employees, while supporting its existing workforce of more than 200 developers and staff. Empire State Development has agreed to support this expansion with up to $2 million in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program Tax Credits.
“Our studio has been a key member of the Albany video game development community for over 25 years. Our staff are thrilled to continue calling this area our home. The move is a big step in our evolution and our future is brighter than ever,” said Jennifer Oneal, Vicarious Visions Studio Head. “We’re confident that the new space will creatively inspire our ever-growing team. I’d like to thank our team at Vicarious Visions, the team at Activision, and Empire State Development for their efforts in helping to make this happen.”
“We welcome Vicarious Visions and their talented staff of developers to the Town of Colonie, and are excited for the jobs they will create. This project complements our efforts to create an engaging place for people to live, work and play. I thank Governor Cuomo, Empire State Development and Vicarious Visions for making this possible,” added Paula Mahan, Colonie Town Supervisor.
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Want to learn more about the Gaming Development Cluster evolving in the Capital Region?
Don’t miss Brian Corrigan speak at the 2018 Upstate Unleashed Conference on Oct 2. Brian is the Studio Director for PUBG and founder of MadGlory. He’ll share more details on the effort to transform the Capital Region an international gaming hub.
This event has sold out for the last three years, so don’t wait! Get tickets here -> 2018Unleashed.eventbrite.com
PowerSpike Founder and CEO AJ Damiano with UNY50’s Brian Corrigan at Startup Saratoga.
