An independent video games company is looking to expand after completing work on a new PlayStation2 title which looks set to be a bestseller.

Relentless Software, based in Gloucester Road, Brighton, has developed a multi-player quiz show game called Buzz, which has impressed Sony bigwigs.

It marks another significant step forward for Relentless, which emerged from the ruins of Brighton-based Computer Artworks which collapsed 18 months ago.

The company has found a niche making simple games quickly, a strategy which has saved it time and money competing with games publishing giants.

David Amor, Relentless creative director, is frank about its approach.

He said: "From a business point of view, you only get money when the game is on the shelf."

Relentless already has several successful titles under its belt, including various EyeToy and SingStar games, but Buzz looks set to eclipse them all.

Although simple to play - the control panel consists of four chunky buzzers - the fast-paced game does not fall into the low-budget category.

Relentless development director Andrew Eades said: "We are about adding high production values to what might seem like a simple idea."

Now the firm plans a temporary move to larger premises at Cheapside, next to Brighton railway station, while its new offices are being built in Vine Street.

The company has positions available for artists, designers, programmers and administrative staff and, ideally, wants to recruit from Brighton and Hove.

Andrew said: "People who make games generally have some desire to have fun, and Brighton suits the kind of people who work in the games industry."

Joining the hardworking, productive and successful studio behind Buzz may bring other benefits, too, if Andrew's experience is anything to go by.

"I get invited round to dinner because of this game," he said.

June 14, 2005