Nintendo opens up game creation kit to all comers

NINTENDO HAS released a game-creation kit allowing independent developers to develop games for its Wii console for the first time.

The firm said it will allow anyone to create and sell downloadable Wii games through its WiiWare scheme. From next year, such games will be flogged through the Wii Shop channel.

Developers can begin designing games on a PC but must complete them on the Wii.

Reggie Fils-Aime, president of Nintendo of America, said: "Independent developers armed with small budgets and big ideas will be able to get their original games into the marketplace to see if we can find the next smash hit." µ