Now that the iPad has arrived, its 9.7-inch touch screen optimized for entertainment purposes will be ideal for gamers.
Prior to the launch, Apple worked with several developers on the creation of apps that can run on the iPad. While we expect to see most iPhone and iPod touch apps work on the iPad, certain apps will be even more engaging on Apple’s new tablet computer.
Designed for better viewing and touch interactions, game developers including Gameloft were among those invited to design game apps for the iPad. Gameloft demonstrated one such game during Jobs’ iPad revealing today, using shooter game Need for Speed Shift, one of their most popular racing game franchises, which comes with some new touch controls and slight improvements to graphic display. “Building for the iPad is a little different — it’s kind of like holding an HD display up to your face. It’s really cool.”
The monetization of both the platform and the games will encourage even more development, with a number of game creators willing to design apps that offer more features than what can be done for the smaller iPhone.
Games on a larger touch screen could also catalyze development for other device manufacturers, with a growing desire for video games to be as interactive as possible. Nintendo launched the Wii, with accessories such as wands and floor pads to recreate more realistic game play. Sony is following suite as far as gaming consoles are concerned, but mobile games with a more inviting touch screen could take the app industry in yet another direction.
Several other companies have already begun work on their own tablet computers, and Amazon is even looking to create more of a marketplace around apps designed for its Kindle. Now that Apple has officially launched the iPad, we’re sure to see more platforms and marketplaces designed for touch-screen, mobile gaming.
