E3 2007: NCsoft signs exclusive PlayStation development deal

NCsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment have entered into an exclusivity agreement that will see the online games company produce several titles for the PlayStation 3 and PSP.

The games will be based on both new IP as well as existing NCsoft ones. The firm is best known for its online titles such as Guildwars and Lineage – earlier this week we exclusively revealed that the company is opening a fully-fledged game development studio in Brighton, UK to aid its production of new games.

The announcement was just one of a number of exclusivity deals Sony unveiled at E3 last night.

“This is a great step forward for online gaming,” said Geoff Heath, CEO of NCsoft Europe.

“We are delighted to be working with Sony Computer Entertainment. PS3, with its advanced Cell Broadband Engine™ and standard hard disc drive on every unit, has already demonstrated it is a truly versatile online platform that gives NCsoft the potential to create massively multiplayer environments. Together with the Internet-enabled PSP, we’re confident that SCEI and NCsoft can develop unique and compelling online experiences that will be found on no other platform.”

“NCsoft has established itself as one of the preeminent developers in the online space,” added Riley Russell, vice president of third party and developer support, Sony Computer Entertainment America.

“Their track record of creating successful online games is exactly what we are looking for as we grow the PlayStation Network, delivering new, rich experiences on both PS3 and PSP. SCEI’s hardware leadership matched with NCsoft’s extensive online experience are the hallmarks of what is sure to be a fruitful relationship for both companies, ultimately benefiting our core audience – the gamer.”