Sony is set to heavily expand its digital content production capabilities thanks to a deal that will strengthen its relationship with Indian development and outsourcing studio GameShastra.

GameShastra already has a history of working on PlayStation formats, several titles – including Desi Adda: Games of India and various Minis – having hit PSP.

However, the developer says the strengthening of its ties with Sony will transform it into a major digital download game developer partner in India.

Eastern promise

"For GameShastra, the expansion of relationship with market leader like Sony Computer Entertainment reaffirms our position in the digital download games services market," said GameShastra CEO Prakash Ahuja.

"We enjoy a successful working relationship with Sony Computer Entertainment and our team in India is committed to innovate and continue to deliver outstanding digital gaming products not only to Sony consumers globally and but also to other leading players."

Grand deal

As a result of the deal, GameShastra will expand its development team, establishing what it describes as a state of the art game design studio in Hyderabad to help the developer cope with the added demand working for Sony will create.

The studio plans to employ over 1,000 staff.

It's also working on its first title following the link-up, Cart Kings currently in development for PSP and PS2.

Light as air

But it's Sony decision to call upon thirdparties to deliver digital download content for PSP that will grab most headlines.

The PlayStation Store is set to become and increasingly important facet of Sony's business, the firm having predicted that 90 percent of all game sales would be made digitally by 2018 almost two years ago.

Yet, Sony has faced much criticism following the launch of the download-only PSP Go, with commentators eagerly comparing it unfavourably to the content-rich marketplaces currently available on the array of smartphones on the market.

It's a status quo Sony will be hoping GameShastra can help upset.

"GameShastra has proven that it can match our pace and bring innovations to create an even greater excitement for PlayStation game enthusiasts with Desi Adda," SCEE COO Jim Ryan added.

"We are excited with new innovation GameShastra is creating in India who can provide us the competitive edge globally."