BC Interactive Task Force Welcomes Proposed BC Interactive Digital Media Tax
Credit For Video Game Development

VANCOUVER , Feb. 4 /CNW/ - British Columbia's video game industry will benefit from the February 3 announcement of a proposed Interactive Digital Media tax credit program as the film, TV, animation and video game industries in this province converge, according to the BC Interactive Task Force.

"The B.C. video game industry sees the announcement as an important first step in creating a next-generation digital media hub and retaining our province's preeminent position on the world video game stage," stated Howard Donaldson , Chair of the BC Interactive Task Force and Vice President Studio Operations with Disney Interactive Studios. "We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the B.C. government as we finalize the details and implementation of this important new program."

At its peak in the fall of 2008, there were more than 60 video game studios in B.C., employing more than 4,000 people and contributing more than a half a billion dollars annually to the province's GDP. Over the past 18 months, local employment in the industry has fallen dramatically. The industry has been working collaboratively with the B.C. government to find solutions to reinvigorate job growth and investment, and sustain the province's position as one of the world's best game development hubs.

"British Columbia is home to many of the world's most popular video games and home to many of the most talented, passionate game developers on the planet," continued Donaldson. "With this announcement, we're hopeful we can continue to nurture and grow this cornerstone industry."

The BC Interactive Task Force was formed in 2009 by local leaders of the video game industry to work with the B.C. government on a long-term plan to support video game development in this province. More than 30 B.C. companies, ranging from large international publishers to small entrepreneurial developers, are represented by the Task Force.

For further information: Media Contact: Colin Macrae, [email protected] or [phone]