Monster Hunter goes social mobile in Japan thanks to DeNA's Mobage
Popular franchise turns to card battle format
Capcom's Monster Hunter series almost single-handedly prevented the PSP from becoming an also-ran in its native Japan, and the popularity of the franchise has spawned a number of sequels and ports.
The latest of these will see the series' first entry into the mobile social gaming market, in the form of Minna to Monhan Card Master (Monster Hunter With Everyone: Card Master).
The game, to be released on DeNA's Mobage platform has begun pre-registration.
Deal with itUnfortunately for the game's western fan base it seems that this latest title will be limited to a Japan-only release, due for 21 February 2012.
Minna to Monhan Card Master, developed by card battle game specialist Gloops, will allow players to form their own guilds as well as battle opposing player's guilds, as they collect the in-game card packs.
Card games are currently providing very popular in Japan, with DeNA blaming a drop in its Q2 FY11 figure on its lack of games in this sector.
The most recent Monster Hunter title to launch in Japan was Monster Hunter Tri-G, for the 3DS. It became the third 3DS title to pass the million sales milestone, and the first third party title to do so.
[source: Andriasang]