Capcom outlines wireless gaming strategy

Following the recent launch of its dedicated mobile division in Los Angeles, Japanese publisher Capcom has reiterated its plans for global expansion and outlined its ambitions for its entrance into the increasingly competitive mobile gaming market.

Speaking at the company's Gamers Day press event in Las Vegas, Midori Yuasa, the head of Capcom's newly established wireless division confirmed that a number of partnerships and distribution relationships are currently being negotiated and put into place, to provide mobile gamers with an extensive selection of the company's most prestigious franchises.

According to US website Gamespot, Yuasa's strategy is to leverage what she refers to as the "unique influences and potential" of mobile games, focusing on a subscription model that will enable gamers to download additional content and extensions to games on a monthly basis.

In addition to the release of Mega Man on Verizon, new deals with Mobile Virtual Network Operator Amp'd and a host of youth-oriented partnerships and promotions, Capcom wireless intends to release "an initial output of more than 10 dedicated mobile titles in the coming year." One of the more interesting announcements, which ties into Yuasa's plans for episodic content, is the impending release of Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney for mobile phones.

Already an acclaimed title on the Nintendo DS (due out on Europe March 31st), Phoenix Wright for mobiles will offer gamers something a little different, as new cases will be made available for download to extend the life of the game. Additionally, the wireless division intends to capitalise on viral marketing initiatives, by offering users the option to send a text message to a friend from within the game. The message will invite that friend to download the game and, in this example, join the Phoenix Wright mobile gaming community.

The moves are all part of Capcom's fresh approach to the global gaming community, as the company attempts to steer away from its traditional ethos of publishing in its home territory first, and considering Western markets second.

In terms of the publisher's mobile ambitions, Capcom's Mark Beaumont commented: "We know that our competitors are investing in that category - in some cases heavily, as EA is with Jamdat - and we certainly see it as a growth opportunity as well. It's time for us to put a stake into the North American marketplace and that's what Madori Yuasa is now doing for us."