Makers of DS Ninjatown plan App Store odyssey with Space Miner

While plenty of companies with mobile and handheld experience are now trying their luck with iPhone and iPod touch, few seem to be sizing up the opportunity with the ambition of Venan Entertainment.

Perhaps it's because the US outfit has proved with titles such as Ninjatown (DS), various mobile versions of Monopoly, and High Seas: Guns and Gold (also mobile) that getting a game right counts for more than rushing it out.

At least, we hope that's going to be the case with Space Miner: Space Ore Bust.

This marks the first chapter in the Space Miner series, which will see players freely exploring a massive asteroid field, blasting apart the colossal rocks for valuable ore while simultaneously fending off an army of deadly drones sent by the evil Mega Space Corp.

Then, adding in elements of classic space trading game Elite, you'll be able to convert your rocky loot into spacebucks that can be spent on dozens of ship upgrades. In turn, this will unlock more action-packed missions throughout the asteroid belt that will see you discovering ancient alien artifacts and unraveling the mystery behind Mega Space Corp's arrival in the system.

But, as mentioned, Space Ore Bust is only the first in a planned series of chapters set in the Space Miner world, with frequent content updates and chapters promised.

"With Space Miner: Space Ore Bust, we've set some lofty goals," said Brandon Curiel, Venan's president and lead designer.

"First, to create something that is entirely unique to the iPhone and not just another me-too game. Next, to make it accessible enough for the casual audience yet deep enough to excite the core gamer as well. And finally, to create a low-priced iPhone game that not only has hours of fun and compelling gameplay, but also has the top-notch production values missing in many of the App Store offerings these days."