While some Nintendo fans may have worried that Nintendo would license their IP to DeNA at the drop of a hat and be content to watch low-quality stuff come out, Iwata assuaged such concerns by confirming that Nintendo would handle the main development of smart device games and DeNA would focus on the services. Speaking to Time, he said:
Development of smart device games will be mainly done by Nintendo, but it is significant that we are forming a joint development structure with DeNA. Nintendo, through experience in the dedicated game system business, is good at making traditional game products. But for smart devices, in addition to the “product” aspect of a game, the aspect of an ever-evolving “service” is very important—a service that encourages consumers to play every day even for a short time. DeNA has extensive know-how in developing the “service” side of things, and will be primarily responsible for the service-oriented operations. We will be able to greatly leverage strengths of each party.
When asked about how involved Shigeru Miyamoto would be, Iwata said:
As for any involvement of Mr. Miyamoto, we will discuss it when possible, but for now, understand that his priority is on the development of Wii U titles that will be launched this year.
As for the new loyalty program, Iwata removed any doubts about DeNA’s involvement – DeNA are indeed involved, but we’ll have to wait for details. You can read the full interview here.
As long as we don’t see Pokemon iShuffle…
