March 2^nd, 2005 (9:06pm) - SN Systems and Japanese hardware and software producers Hudson have announced a joint partnership to produce official hardware development kits and software tools for the new Nintendo DS handheld console.

Andy Beveridge, Director of SN Systems stated “Working with Hudson on this joint venture has been particularly important as it allows two established and successful companies to develop an all-in-one solution for Nintendo DS developers. We have continued to lead the market by offering a range of comprehensive tools for all the major platforms, while Hudson has the rare and valuable experience of being both a game developer and hardware manufacturer. Working together we will be able to offer a package that will cover all the requirements of the developer.”

Having already developed the popular GDEV hardware development kit for the GameCube, Hudson has a wealth of experience and expertise that few other companies can match or offer. Coupled with extensive knowledge of the game development process, they are in prime position to deliver hardware that meets and exceeds the game developer’s requirements. The new development kit will be supported by ‘ProDG’ software tools specifically designed by console tools specialist SN Systems. Users of ’ProDG’ will instantly recognize the look and feel of the tools, ensuring teams will be able to quickly commence development.

Satoshi Murakami, General Manager of CT department, Hudson commented, “Hudson is continually improving internal development tools and procedures, as well as focusing on developing and selling content like games. NPDP-GDEV for GameCube was developed using our experience and understanding of technology that we had established over time, so it was very pleasing to see it being used and praised by game developers globally. Working with renowned tools specialists SN Systems is excellent news for us as well as all Nintendo DS developers, they understand the importance of delivering professional tools and it is the perfect partnership to our new DS Dev hardware.”

Due to the popularity of existing products, SN Systems and Hudson are confident of making an immediate impact on a global scale and demand is expected to be high. The development kit is expected to be available to all authorized Nintendo DS developers in all territories during late Q1 2005.