Seven Lights boss warns against console ports

Tim Harris, co-founder and CEO of Chicago-based development studio Seven Lights, has warned that games publishers should think carefully before trying to bring console franchises into the mobile space.

Speaking in an interview with GamesIndustry.biz Harris said, "We have very strong opinions on what the mobile space is good for and what it isn't. In the US, that has a lot to do with carrier issues, and we're far behind Asia and Europe in terms of mobile phone capabilities.

"We've seen a lot of companies try to export their IPs into the mobile space, and with things like Splinter Cell, the mobile phones simply aren't ready for that kind of experience.

"I think what publishers should do, and what we're trying to do, is facilitate their grander games via snack-sized experiences which aren't trying to be the game itself."

Seven Lights is currently working on a web-based game called The Continuum, which revolves around a transaction system where players can trade and auction items and collect characters. Eventually, according to Harris, downloadable clients will be available directly for mobile.

"The mobile section of this is twofold. Firstly, we're going to facilitate trading, matchmaking guild type decisions in the mobile space. But we're also going to have a series of casual games based around the core Continuum experience, and some of those will be on mobile," he explained.

"So while you won't be able to play the grand turn-based strategy game on mobile, you'll find you can play a quick puzzle or action game that's to do with the plot. You can use your characters in these casual games and they will develop."

To find out more about Seven Lights and The Continuum, read the full interview.