Tomy announces publishing plans

The news came at Tokyo Games Show yesterday, where the firm said that it plans to create multiplatform titles based on its popular toy brands and licensed characters – as well as developing original IP tailored for the North American and European markets.

It plans to release its first games under the new strategy this month – but the formats the titles will appear on are still unknown.

"This is a very exciting time for Tomy Corporation as the company moves towards a vertical video game publishing strategy in North America and Europe," said chief international operating officer for Tomy Isamu Takahashi.

"The Tomy brand is known for innovation and quality all over the world. As the way people seek entertainment content evolves onto new digital platforms, it is a natural step for Tomy to extend family-friendly properties onto the next generation video game systems."

Tomy’s first two title will release in North America later this month - Lovely Lisa for Nintendo DS and Penny Racers Party: Turbo-Q Speedway for the Nintendo Wii.

"With our expansion as a vertical publisher in North America, we are dedicated to bringing gamers quality titles on next-generation systems that entertain and inspire families and kids of all ages," said Tomy president Kaz Sugiyama.

"We are proud that Tomy's two new games are based on principles and play patterns that parents can feel good about sharing with their children."