With all the blood, sweat and tears that go into the game making process, you'd think developers would get a bit of recognition for their hard work and the titles that emerge from it. This past Friday, the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences offered credit where it was due, hosting the Ninth Annual Interactive Achievement Awards at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. Emerging victorious in two categories was Activision, with Call of Duty 2: Big Red One taking home "Outstanding Achievement in Story and Character Development," and The Movies (to remain a PC exclusive, unfortunately) earning "Simulation Game of the Year."

But what's an award acceptance without a speech? Take 'er away, Robin!

"We're honored that Call of Duty 2: Big Red One and The Movies have been recognized by the Academy for the hard work, creative innovation and commitment to gameplay of the developers and teams at Activision," acknowledged Robin Kaminsky, head of global brand management, Activision Publishing, Inc. "To receive these awards from our peers, among such great competition, is a testament to the tireless effort of each member of the Treyarch and Lionhead Studios development teams."

The Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences Awards Show was hosted by comedian/actor Jay Mohr and ran in conjunction nicely with this year's D.I.C.E. Summit. See just who was up for the awards at the AIAS site. A tight race, if you ask us.