The prototypes for the devices that are enabled with these chips are expected to be released this year.
The Wii U GamePad already includes a function that is enabled with NFC technology, but most users aren’t even aware of it, as it is not extensively discussed on any level, except among developers and intense gamers who talk on the internst.
This is because it isn’t yet used for anything, at the moment.
Even Skylanders, which is shipped with its own reader for NFC technology, does not use it for any purpose. That said, even though it is coming to the forefront once again, most of the purposes for its use have not yet been finalized.
When discussing the topic with investors, Satoru Iwata, the CEO, said the NFC technology plans were not yet concrete.
Iwata said that there are two primary branches of ideas being considered by Nintendo for the use of NFC technology. The first is for toys in the style of Skylanders. The second is to be able to read credit cards so that purchases and payments can be made through the Wii U devices.
As a for instance of the first type of use for the NFC technology, Iwata said “For example, we can create cards and figurines with NFC and design our video games to work in conjunction with them.” He also stated that “Also, an increasing number of arcade games are utilizing IC cards which can read and write data in order to record users’ scores and it is possible for Wii U games to connect with them.”
There are a number of different developers who are working with Nintendo on this type of idea. Iwata said that by the end of 2013, it is likely that there will be something more finalized to show for it, and that some more solid examples will become available. As of yet, however, it appears that the company remains in the concept phase.
Other possible uses for NFC technology that have previously been mentioned by Nintendo include payment cards. In theory, this would make it possible to use an e-money card and either wave it over the device or tap it in order to make a mobile payment.
GREE sets sights on US market for new mobile games
Japanese mobile games giant GREE has managed to conquer much of the gaming market in Asia. The company is behind some of the most popular mobile games that can be found in that region of the world, and has a very strong presence in social gaming as well. While GREE has seen a massive amount of success, the company is beginning to look toward expansion, and believes that the U.S. market is ripe for the taking.
GREE continues aggressive expansion efforts
GREE currently has a modest presence in the U.S. mobile games realm, but that is not stopping it from taking aggressive steps to bolster this presence. GREE has been acquiring several game development studios in the U.S., such as Funzio, recently in the effort to prepare for the launch of new mobile games. The company has also been increasing its staff. GREE International had a staff of only 12 people in 2011, and now boasts of a workforce 400 strong. With progress being seen throughout the companies numerous sectors, GREE is beginning to mobilize for its entry into foreign markets.
Tablets will be a strong focus for the company
GREE has a particular interest in tablets for its mobile games. The company notes that tablets are becoming more popular among consumers because of their enhanced capabilities over smart phones and other mobile devices. Larger screens offer higher fidelity images, while strong processors and GPUs allow gamers to experience games with higher quality animations and performance. GREE has ambitious for releasing collectible-style card games for these devices and will focus heavily on this genre for its entry into the U.S. market.
Mobile games continue to prove popular
Mobile games have become a lucrative and popular market for the game industry. Developers throughout the industry has found significant success through their focus on mobile games, adding further momentum to the performance of the market. Consumers have shown that they are willing to play mobile games of all types, and many are open to new experiences that are either absent in the current market or somewhat underrepresented.
