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GREE signs up Mind Candy to take Moshi Monsters mobile

Continuing platform's western assault

GREE signs up Mind Candy to take Moshi Monsters mobile
In yet another move designed to solidify its support in the west, GREE has unveiled a new partnership with UK-based developer Mindy Candy to bring Moshi Monsters to mobile.

As a result of the deal, Mindy Candy will deliver two new games based on the online franchise for mobile via GREE's platform, set for release in the fourth quarter of 2012.

Meeting of minds

"Our fans love tablets and smartphones so we're really excited to take our much loved characters and stories to these new platforms," said Mind Candy CEO and founder Michael Acton Smith.

"GREE has achieved phenomenal success and we're looking forward to working with them on these two games."

For GREE, the launch of the games – which will be available in English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin and more – is another example of the Japanese social gaming giant courting western audiences.

The company has signed numerous deals in recent months to deliver games aimed at North America and Europe ready for the launch of the GREE platform later in 2012, with the firm having established its first development studio in the US in the process.

GREE also acquired US 'hardcore' social studio Funzio for $210 million in April.

Monster deal

"We're really excited to work with Mind Candy to bring Moshi Monsters to our global mobile community and to the GREE Platform," added GREE CEO and founder Yoshikazu Tanaka.

"Moshi Monsters is a leader in the online industry and has built a great and loyal following.

"GREE is delighted to be a part of the franchise's move to mobile and believes the relationship is a great opportunity to further illustrate GREE’s on-going commitment to bringing quality content for all gamers to the new platform."

GREE claims to have more than 230 million users worldwide, with the Japanese giant no doubt hoping Moshi Monster's own 60 million strong registered userbase will make the leap across to the firm's platform come launch.

With a fine eye for detail, Keith Andrew is fuelled by strong coffee, Kylie Minogue and the shapely curve of a san serif font.