Games developer to level up on workers

Technology: Popularity of gaming has risen during lockdown

A Moray online games developer has launched a recruitment drive after the Covid-19 lockdown sparked a surge in demand for its products around the world.

Hunted Cow Studios, based on South Street, Elgin, is looking to add another 11 staff to its 24-strong team.

Set up in 2003 by Andrew Mulholland and Glen Murphy, both graduates of Abertay University, the firm has gone on to launch a range of “massive multiplayer online games” (MMOs).

Its titles across PC and mobile device platforms include Fallen Sword, Eldevin and Operation New Earth.

Gaming in general has soared in popularity after the Covid-19 lockdown forced more people to stay at home.

MMOs can support hundreds of simultaneous players on the same computer server and, in total, Hunted Cow’s products have attracted more than five million gaming enthusiasts.

Hunted Cow secured a £45,707 grant from development agency

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) to support its ambitious growth plans.

The funding allowed it to invest in new, advanced

IT equipment and staff training to help it develop and build new games.

Mr Mulholland said: “We were delighted to secure the funding from

Highlands and Islands Enterprise to help us expand our business and we look forward to welcoming new staff to our team.

“While the current situation is challenging for everyone, we are in a strong position and pressing ahead with our growth plans.”

HIE has previously backed Hunted Cow with funding for its premises, support for ScotGrad student placements and consultancy services.

Angie Smith, an account manager with HIE’s Moray area team, welcomed the firm’s latest expansion plans.

She said: “Hunted Cow is a valuable employer in Elgin and contributes to the area’s creative industries economy.

“The latest development will take the company to the next stage in its growth plan, creating more valuable jobs in Elgin and increasing its economic impact.

“We are very pleased to provide support and will continue to work with the company as it grows.”

Hunted Cow’s latest game is Warhammer: Chaos and Conquest.

“We are in a strong position and pressing ahead with our growth plans”

PLANS: Hunted Cow Studios founder and director Andrew Mulholland said the firm is looking to add another 11 staff to its 24-strong team