Disney
Challenge
Disney Asia launched the Disney 3D Android handset in Japan during Q1 2011. Disney required branded content to promote the device, attract new customers and monetise existing users. Disney commissioned Kerb to develop a Japanese language ‘match three’ game that feature Disney characters.
What We Did
Working with the creative team at Disney we developed an isometric grid as the basis of the game allowing matching to be achieved using the third axis, instantly setting it apart from all other similar games. This approach required extensive game balancing to eliminate endless cascades, with rigorous testing to determine the optimum board size.
A second unique addition to play introduces a penalty. By matching three ‘Dark Emoji’ the gameplay changes into Villain Attack Mode with the player robbed of their achievements unless they quickly clear the Dark Emoji from the board.
Our game designers conceived another additional feature with which to delight players. By tilting the handset, players are able to choose what direction new Emoji fall onto the grid.
In production QA turnarounds were substantially reduced by the time difference, providing what was essentially a 24hr workflow; as Disney's team checked out in Tokyo, Kerb’s team checked in in Brighton Using the Marmalade development environment we were able to simultaneously develop both Android and iOS versions.
What Happened
We successfully delivered phase one of the Magic Emoji game in a ten week production schedule by working closely with Disney’s team in Tokyo. The game was launched on the Android Market where it’s earned a 4* rating and is currently Disney's best performing app.
