Gameloft supports Xperia Play with BackStab exclusive

If Sony Ericsson's Xperia Play is to find a gamer shaped space for itself, it's going to need support from developers.

As Amazon has shown, signing up exclusives can be a key differentiator on Google's open-to-all platform, whether you're talking app stores or specific handsets.

It makes news that Gameloft has named forthcoming Caribbean adventure BackStab as an Xperia Play timed exclusive even more important, with the publisher also having a ten-strong roster of titles available for the device's launch. 

BackStab will be exclusive to the device for its first month. although won't be available for Xperia Play's launch. 

Play time

"We are truly excited to continue our support of Xperia Play with an exclusive release of BackStab, bringing the action adventure experience to a new level," said senior VP of publishing at Gameloft Gonzague de Vallois.

"We already have a strong line-up for Xperia Play and its capabilities as a fully enabled smartphone with dedicated gaming controls make this device one powerful contender in the gaming space."

Taken alone, it's unlikely to convince many consumers to pick up a handset, but it is an important sign of the development community targeting the handset with key releases.

Lofty heights

"We are delighted that Gameloft have chosen to launch this stunning new title first on Xperia Play," added head of marketing at Sony Ericsson, Steve Walker.

"BackStab sets a high benchmark graphically and technically for gaming on a smartphone and it is a fantastic addition to the fast growing portfolio of quality releases for Xperia Play."

Gameloft will have established franchises such as Asphalt 6: Adrenaline and Star Battalion embedded on the device, with BackStab following on at some point in Q2 2011.