Iwata Embraces Smartphones And Other Non-Dedicated Gaming Devices

Nintendo has released Iwata’s Q & A transcript, in which the outspoken leader of Nintendo discusses everything from Nintendo’s holiday sales strategies to the Wii U Virtual Console. One of the more interesting topics of the transcripts in smartphones. Rather than putting Nintendo at odds with the devices, Iwata’s philosophy is one that accepts the devices as an alternative to dedicated gaming systems, and a means to connect with consumers. He cited Nintendo’s incorporation of Miiverse on smart devices as an example of a way in which Nintendo embraces the onslaught of new portable electronics that many are calling a threat to the home console market. Here are Iwata’s full comments on the subject:

“I think it is natural that many people feel that it is more convenient to use smart devices, as opposed to dedicated gaming systems, to play games to kill a bit of time. That is to say, there are some areas in which dedicated gaming systems were once used that now have greater potential on smart devices. On the other hand, dedicated gaming systems are developed by considering the software that is designed to run on the hardware, enabling us to make unique propositions.

“With that in mind, my view is that the gaming market will be segregated to a fair degree. However, this does not mean that smart devices will simply compete with dedicated gaming systems. Given their growth, I feel that we should make an effort to take advantage of their existence. For instance, we already made it possible to browse Wii U’s networking service called Miiverse on smart devices. Starting with this attempt, we are discussing among us how we can expand the use of smart devices to help drive the business of dedicated gaming systems.

“Smart devices have already played a central role in creating buzz among consumers above a certain age with respect to, for example, “Animal Crossing: New Leaf,” “Monster Hunter 4” or “Pokémon X/Pokémon Y.” Twitter timelines filled with tweets about Monster Hunter and Pokémon can certainly help create awareness for the products, and we also know that many watch Nintendo Direct on their smart devices. Rather than simply viewing smart devices as competitors, we should consider ways in which we can use them for our business.”