THQ to close Arizona QA office, move some staff to Montreal
In its continued efforts to shore up flagging finances, THQ will consolidate its QA operation in the cheap and cheerful Montreal office, with 57 staff affected by the closure of an Arizona operation.
THQ told GameInformer that Montreal has several advantages over its old digs.
"Montreal is a prime location for industry talent, has favorable economics, and is a big part of our future game development plans. With those considerations in mind, we have made the business decision to consolidate our two Quality Assurance operations into one location at THQ Montreal," the publisher said.
"The studio in Montreal is already home to a global team of Quality Assurance professionals.The transition will occur gradually throughout the remainder of 2012 while we continue to manage QA for our FY’13 release slate."
Some of the affected staff will find new roles at the Montreal studio if they are willing to relocate, but THQ doesn't have final numbers yet. At least the team has a few months to sort out options.
Economic incentives offered by Canadian provinces have spurred a number of relocations; Ubisoft, THQ and EA all have extensive Canadian operations, and UK trade figures are concerned the land of the maple leaf will suck the life out of every other development centre with its myriad delights.