Ubisoft’s relationship with Nintendo is quite rocky lately, as the French video game company continues flip-flopping in their support, leaving fans wondering just how dedicated they are to making titles for Wii U. Once more, Ubisoft has released a statement that brings into question their allegiance to Nintendo, as they praised the development giant for their attempts at innovation, but also firmly placed their main focus on the competition.
Ubisoft managing director Nicolas Rioux, told reporters that Nintendo did give them ideas when it came to “second-screen” gaming, describing Nintendo as the pioneers of the connected tablet interface.
The Wii U was kind of the pioneer of the connected tablet interface. This gave us some ideas for the first iteration of tablets connected with console games.
However, such praise does not come with third-party support it seems, as Rioux later explains that his company’s long term goal was developing for the next generation systems: Xbox One and PlayStation 4.
It’s not confirmed yet, but if it’s possible to do it and it makes sense, yes we will provide some kind of experience on the Wii U. Our focus is on the new generation of Microsoft and Sony consoles.
Ubisoft’s support of the Wii U has always been called to question, especially after they admitted that they were reducing support as they continue to monitor the console’s progress. Even more alarming, the “second-screen” gaming that Ubisoft is championing may become a very moot point. Even now, iOS and other mobile apps are already being developed for the PS4 and Xbox One, making it very likely that tablet connectivity will be a future feature for all consoles.
