iPokemon —

Japanese iOS “Pokedex” doesn’t mean Nintendo is abandoning its hardware

Don't get too excited: Game Freak's informational app probably isn't a harbinger.

Japanese iOS “Pokedex” doesn't mean Nintendo is abandoning its hardware

Those continuing to hope Nintendo will "pull a Sega" and bring its bestselling gaming properties to other platforms are probably getting their hopes up today. It was announced that Pokemon Zukana Japanese iOS "Pokedex" app that will let buyers view information about up to 650 distinct Pokemon—will go live tomorrow. But there's reason not to get too enthusiastic about The Big N abandoning its own hardware anytime soon.

First of all, this isn't the first time Nintendo's Pokemon characters made the move over to iOS. Pokemon developer Game Freak (who is also behind Zukan) released promotional rhythm game Pokemon Say Tap? as a free iOS and PC title in Japan last year. While Nintendo owns 32 percent of Game Freak, the developer obviously has a little bit of wiggle room regarding what it can do with the popular characters. With Zukan, there are currently no announced plans to localize the title for other markets outside of Poke-mad Japan.

Releasing an app that acts as a glorified Wikipedia for Pokemon is one thing, but it's still a long way off from even being one of those spin-off games focused solely on Pokemon battles, much less a full-fledged, core Pokemon RPG. When Nintendo releases its grip on the characters to allow something like that on another platform, maybe it's time to believe the company is really interested in branching out. But the Pokemon franchise is still easily selling millions on the aging DS, so it seems unlikely that Nintendo is really eager to rock the boat. Same goes for other major Nintendo franchises that continue to drive Nintendo's hardware sales and provide the core of its software revenue.

Still, it's a bit odd to have a 170 yen (about $2) iOS app (with 2000 yen/$20 of optional add-on purchases) that competes directly with the 1500 yen/$15 Pokedex 3D Pro on the 3DS (though a previous Pokedex 3D was offered for free up until October). If this sells well, we could see Nintendo potentially allowing other informational spin-off apps for some of its popular brands, or even support apps that connect to games on Nintendo's other systems somehow. Nintendo has already expressed interest in expanding the Wii U's messaging capabilities to smartphones in the future, so the company isn't totally opposed to dipping its toes in the mobile market.

Still, don't get too excited. We're a long way off from seeing a version of New Super Mario Bros. on iOS or any other platform Nintendo doesn't fully control. It may very well never happen.

Channel Ars Technica