Mammoth Japanese toy company ceasing console and deck development, focusing solely on software.
TOKYO--According to Japanese site Mainichi Interactive, Bandai will no longer be developing hardware for videogames. The news was revealed by Takeo Takasu, president of the Bandai Corporation. Takatsu explained that the company"s Pippin ATMARK console and WonderSwan game deck had failed to generate enough consumer interest to warrant continuation of the projects.
Going forward, Bandai will focus on developing game software only. "We will be dealing with all hardware makers equally, without any special treatment towards Nintendo," said Takasu, commenting on the company"s relationship with their new shareholder. The company is considering they possibility of releasing titles for the Xbox as well, if the console"s sales increase in Japan.