Given DeNA has openly stated that the company's growth relies on the continued success of its mobile-social platform Mobage, news that it plans to further expand its base in Japan should come as no surprise.

The latest drive will come as a result of a partnership with Japanese operator NTT DoCoMo that could result in up to 6 million new users making use of the Mobage platform.

Mobile marriage

The deal will essentially be delivered in two parts. On feature phones, NTT DoCoMo will serve up a direct link to Mobage via its mobile web portal i-mode.

Smartphone users will also be treated to a dedicated app, both available for download on DoCoMo Market and pre-installed on a select band of new handsets.

"DoCoMo users will enjoy special benefits when using Mobage, such as early access to sought-after new content and exclusive privileges for selected content, as well as easy direct billing via DoCoMo's sp-mode service for smartphones," the carrier said in a statement.

The firm also said both parties would take steps to promote Mobage in overseas markets – specifically Europe and Asia – via collaboration with other operators and game developers.

"The two companies will complement each other’s expertise in overseas mobile-service platforms and related services that they have developed together with their respective subsidiaries and partners in foreign markets."

[source: NTT DoCoMo]