Ben Mattes is the Producer at Ubisoft working on Assassin's Creed 2: Discovery
During the Rock and Roll press event back when Assassins Creed 2: Discovery was announced in September it was claimed that the game would be released on the App Store day and date with the console versions. What happened?
Developing games for the iPhone is a new area for Ubisoft and we really wanted to ensure that we had all the game mechanics down for the AC2 iPhone version of the game before we released it to the public. The team has worked diligently to ensure that we created a compelling Assassin’s Creed experience for the iPhone. We wanted extra time to polish the game and add new features.
What are your thoughts on the current pricing models for games on the App Store? Typically games command a much lower price, is this a problem for big brand titles like Assassins Creed especially when comparable DS games are being released for up to 5 times the price?
We evaluate pricing of games on a case-by-case basis. Assassin’s Creed II: Discovery offers an incredible value at the $9.99 price. You not only get the full DS version of the game, but you get added levels and new optimized features specific to the iPhone/iPod touch.
Historically Ubisoft have been seemingly content to let Gameloft take on publishing responsibilities for their properties on mobile devices. Does this game mark the start of more Ubisoft published titles or is Assassins Creed II: Discovery a one off?
Ubisoft has a great relationship with Gameloft. We’re delighted to be developing a new version for Assassin's Creed II. In addition to launching our own titles for the iPhone and iPod Touch, Ubisoft will continue to work with Gameloft on the launch of iPhone titles based on our intellectual properties.
Lastly, where do you see the handheld gaming market going with the next generation of systems? Obviously Apple have really catalysed the growth of digital distribution for portable systems, do you think the next Nintendo and Sony devices will follow this example?
Digital distribution will continue to be key to the handheld gaming market, especially as consumers are on the go now more than ever. I also see that game developers will take more advantage of the always-on Internet connectivity and incorporate that aspect into games. The handheld gaming experience is also an intrinsically social experience, therefore I envision more games integrating Facebook, Twitter and other community driven features.
Thanks for your time Ben.
Assassin's Creed 2: Discovery will be available from February 1st priced at $9.99. Stay tuned to AppGamer.net near the release of the game for the full review.
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1 comment
Online Meds / 8th May 2010
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