Sony's Knack to get free puzzle game app
Yoshida: "We've totally changed our approach to mobile products."
Sony no longer views iOS and Android as rivals, but as tools to be used to spread the PlayStation message via related spin-off apps. That's according to Sony Worldwide Studios head Shuhei Yoshida, speaking in the first instalment of a wide ranging interview with GamesIndustry.biz.
"We've totally changed our approach to mobile products like smartphones and tablets," he says. "In the past, we felt like these guys were competition to our portable games, in general - but now, everyone owns these smartphones and tablets. It's like everyone had a PC before - it's a tool that people use every day."
He goes on to explain how PlayStation games will be supported with bonus apps that will unlock items and encourage people to check out the main game. PlayStation 4 launch title, Knack, will be one of the first to benefit from this new approach.
"In some cases, we're creating small games that go with PS4 titles," Yoshida explains. "We're releasing a puzzle game themed around Knack that you can play for free. It's fun, and by playing the game you earn some items that you can use on PS4. People might be motivated, because they've already unlocked some items, to take a look at what this Knack game on the PS4 is all about."
There's a lot more in the epic interview, including Yoshida's thoughts on PS Plus and Vita TV.
