Shigeru Miyamoto to focus on Wii U game development, not mobile games

With Nintendo's recent announcement that they'll be teaming up with DeNA to develop mobile smart device games featuring characters from Nintendo IP, many are wondering if legendary developer Shigeru Miyamoto will work his creative magic for smartphones and tablets. If comments made by Nintendo president Satoru Iwata are any indication than the answer is no, at least not right now.

Speaking to Time, Iwata said that Miyamoto's current focus is on the development of Wii U titles that will be launching this year.

"Development of smart device games will be mainly done by Nintendo, but it is significant that we are forming a joint development structure with DeNA. Nintendo, through experience in the dedicated game system business, is good at making traditional game products. But for smart devices, in addition to the “product” aspect of a game, the aspect of an ever-evolving “service” is very important—a service that encourages consumers to play every day even for a short time. DeNA has extensive know-how in developing the “service” side of things, and will be primarily responsible for the service-oriented operations. We will be able to greatly leverage strengths of each party.

"As for any involvement of Mr. Miyamoto, we will discuss it when possible, but for now, understand that his priority is on the development of Wii U titles that will be launched this year."

It's still possible that smart device games based on Mario, Donkey Kong, The Legend of Zelda, or one of Miyamoto's other creations will still be developed, but it seems it'll have to be done without his vision.

Earlier this week, Iwata also said that Nintendo plans on releasing its first smart device game some time this year. It'll be interesting to see which franchise Nintendo chooses to go with.