With Windows Phone 7 seen as Microsoft's last gasp attempt to compete with the likes of Apple and Google in the smartphone space, the company is apparently splashing the cash to ensure its autumn launch is well populated with content.
One developer has told PocketGamer.biz that Microsoft is contacting successful iPhone developers, offering them upfront cash to port their games to the new platform.
Amounts are said to be substantial, although not enough to tempt the developer in question. Because Windows Phone 7 is limited to Silverlight or XNA Framework (C#) development, the cost of reworking its games from C++ remains too high.
Going native?
Interestingly though, our source still reckoned there was the possibility Microsoft could tweak the development environment to make porting from C++ easier, and hence tip the balance to make the deal commercially viable.
As to the likely success of such strategy, history suggests that the results are patchy.
Sony similarly encouraged iPhone developers to support its PSP Minis program, although it's not known if with such financial inducements. The presence of Fieldrunners and Bloons failed to set the platform alight however.
News
Contributing Editor
A Pocket Gamer co-founder, Jon is Contributing Editor at PG.biz which means he acts like a slightly confused uncle who's forgotten where he's left his glasses. As well as letters and cameras, he likes imaginary numbers and legumes.
Top Stories
Feature
4 hours, 10 minutes ago
Matej Lančarič's Squad Busters deep dive: Under the skin of 2024's biggest launch yet
Feature
9 hours, 26 minutes ago
53 top mobile games in soft launch: Squad Busters, Battle Guys: Royale, Plants vs. Zombies 3, LEGO Hill Climb Adventures, and more
Events
Valencia Indie Summit 2024 | Europe | May 16th |
Mobidictum Meetup Berlin May 2024 | Europe | May 16th |
Digital Dragons | Europe | May 19th |
GamesBeat Summit 2024 | North America | May 20th |
Mobidictum Meetup Tallinn May 2024 | Europe | May 21st |
Nordic Game Spring 2024 | Nordic | May 21st |
Impact 2024 - Indie Games | May 23rd | |
MomoCon 2024 | North America | May 24th |