Though headlines point to GREE's efforts to secure the backing of major studios in the west, the Japanese social gaming specialist is keen to prove it has a keen interest in supporting indies, too.

The firm's 'GREE Loves Indies' outreach – unveiled in October for the US - was designed to do just that, and has now served up its first benefactor, with Tiny Utopia being named as the first 'indie of the month'.

Indie innovation

The Austin-based developer earned the accolade thanks to the firm's forthcoming mobile release Epic Mech Wars, which GREE's director of developer marketing David Chu has described as a "great example of the quality and innovation we see coming from the indie developer community."

He added, "Tiny Utopia really shows how small teams can create unique experiences and are the driving forces behind the platform and initiatives like GREE Loves Indies."

As a result of the win, Epic Mech Wars will now be treated to 4-6 weeks of hands on support from GREE itself, with PR resources, optimisation and post-launch support all wrapped up in the deal.

The hope, of course, is that such open support from GREE will encourage more US-based indies to sign up to the firm's social gaming network – a tactic Tiny Utopia's Neal Nellans naturally endorses.

Epic win

"Epic Mech Wars has been a labuor of love and embodies the independent spirit of our small studio. The goal was to bring a 3D interactive experience with big budget effects and graphics to mobile gamers," said Nellans.

"GREE's contest allowed us to maintain our creativity and flexibility while tapping into the audiences, expertise, and resources of a global platform.

"We're excited to see what's next for the title and increase our visibility through this partnership."

Those looking to preview the game can do so via its website, while developers interested into throwing their own hat into the ring should visit the GREE Loves Indies website.