Upstart Games signs global publishing deal

Dublin-based mobile entertainment publisher Upstart Games has announced a new multi-title global distribution deal with leading Japanese mobile game provider G-Mode.

Under the terms of the deal, Upstart will manage the launch of numerous wireless games from G-Mode, beginning with acclaimed puzzle title Topolon and a Vodafone branded edition of Sudoku that features hand-created puzzles by Nikoli, the Japanese company that originally updated and popularised Sudoku in 1984. A range of further games are scheduled for release throughout the year.

Upstart Games CEO Barry O'Neil commented: "G-mode is the number one mobile games publisher in Japan. Their sole focus on the mobile platform results in games that are designed from the ground up with portability in mind."

"The inclusion of Nikoli's puzzles in the Sudoku game place this title a head and shoulders above the dozens of competitive Sudoku titles out there. It is the quality of the puzzle that counts, not the quantity, and we are delighted to be working with G-mode to bring this title to Vodafone live! subscribers," O'Neil added.

Upstart Games has an established history of working with Japanese games developers such as such as Sony Computer Entertainment, Capcom, Konami, and more, bringing their mobile content to international markets. Additionally, the company's recently launched 'Best of West' service enables US and European developers to find a new distribution channel and reach more than 35 million Japanese consumers.

Hiro Higashiyama, business development manager at G-mode, stated: "We are delighted to work with Upstart, one of the most dedicated mobile phone game developers/publishers, who has a strong presence in Japan, US and Europe."

"Following these launches we expect strong interest from European operators in Topolon and G-mode's wide range of acclaimed casual games," Higashiyama concluded.