I think it was pre-Covid too. That said, Qinetiq's recruitment process is probably best described as 'fluid' - I had a friend apply last year who refused to do the video interview as he could never perform well for the one-way version; he was still selected for a second AC based on his CV, cover letter, and game-based assessment.
Out of curiosity has anyone been recommended for an AC? I haven't heard back either way.