Square Enix announces opening of Hippos Lab, its new Japanese game dev. studio targeting smartphone contents http://bit.ly/g3649o

The wholly-owned subsidiary, launched on March 7, is looking to provide “high quality original content focusing on smart phones”. The company notes that the popularity of the smartphone “has exploded in recent years,” and it believes that “the smartphone will run away with the show.” Hippos Lab aims to have its first release “ready soon.”

Square Enix revealed earlier this month that it is also looking to set up a second Canadian development team in either Vancouver, Montreal or Toronto. A representative from Square Enix said that the decision will be made in May as to which city the new Canadian development house will settle down in, with the new studio opening sometime next year. Original Press Release [PDF in Japanese] Hat-tip to Gamasutra.

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Some sage advise when entering new turf; Stop, Look and Listen.. it’s also good to secure a local guide. Japan is the cradle of mobile civilization – we have been dedicated to this space since 2001 – trust our archives here offer some useful material.

Domestic activities continue to set the pace, and sharp players are looking at global markets. We have hard-earned industry expertise and trusted network of contacts with access to advanced intell. and potential deal flow. Need a lift.. Ok, buckle-up!