Not quite knights in shining armor yet...

David and Richard Darling, the two English brothers who started Codemasters, have been honored as Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) during Queen Elizabeth II's official birthday celebrations. Codemasters is currently best known for developing Lord of the Rings Online with Turbine.

While the CBE designation does not admit the brothers into knighthood, it is the next closest rank, and is often a stepping stone into knighthood. Perhaps once someone in the gaming industry has the title "Sir" then perhaps we'll get more respect from the world.

They built up their company from a bedroom enterprise into one of the best known games developers in the world.

The firm is behind well established titles including the Colin McRae Rally series and Sensible Soccer.

More recently the firm has ventured into online games, releasing Lord of the Rings Online.

"For over 20 years David and Richard led Codemasters as it became one of the video game industry's great British success stories," said Rod Cousens, present head of Codemasters.

"Their drive and passion for creating the best in interactive entertainment will always be part of the industry's heritage and this recognition is well deserved."

The brothers sold their stake in the company in 2007 after 21 years at the firm.

For more information, check the article in the BBC News.

Via MMORPGdot.com