Capcom: Nintendo "looking closely at Apple"
CEO Tsujimoto thinks E3 3DS reveal will herald new business model
Capcom CEO Haruhiro Tsujimoto believes Nintendo is paying close attention to Apple's success in mobile gaming, anticipating the upcoming Nintendo 3DS handheld for more than its 3D capabilities.
"What we're more looking forward to is the offering of a new business model," he said in an interview with Nikkei. "Nintendo has been in the hardware business for a long time, and I believe they must be looking closely at Apple's recent success."
"We believe third parties are paying attention to Nintendo's E3 3DS announcement because of this point as well."
This may be a hint that Capcom hopes Nintendo is readying a service akin to Apple's App Store for their new handheld - perhaps allowing a greater range of third-party, independent and micro-payment content than does the existing DSiWare store. There has also been speculation that the 3D-enabled handheld will offer 3G capabilities.
Nintendo has previously confirmed that it will reveal the 3DS at this year's E3. GamesIndustry.biz will be documenting Nintendo's June 15 press conference on the day.