Kuju Pleased with Japanese BWii Sales

Battalion Wars developer, the London-based Kuju, is chuffed about the success of the Wii sequel in Japan so far.

The title sailed into 6th place in the all-formats chart and is successed by Mario Kart and Wii Fit in the country during the generally quiet post "Golden Week" period. Given its Western-developed style and nature, it's growing to be one of the best Western-imports for the Wii so far � nearly succeeding the GC edition, which sold just over 55,000 units in Japan.

I have the impression that a certain Western exoticism plays a part in attracting attention to the title. In fact, the voice acting was deliberately left in English for that reason. And, the game has the charm, cuteness, and playful humour that can be popular in Japan - perhaps more so than the ubiquitous 'grim-faced man with gun' theme that so dominates action titles on this side of the globe.

It's all about that Gold Seal on the pack, and working closely with Nintendo has really taught us to smooth off all the rough edges - but not necessarily from the aspects of the game that a Western audience might care about so strongly.

Subtle refinements to the interface, continuity in the storyline and ensuring that cut-scenes are framed in such a way as to be as explanatory as possible - all these were even higher priorities than you might expect.

Nintendo are certainly the platform holder to bank on, and they're a great publisher for us to have such a strong working relationship with.

Kuju London's creative director Tancred Dyke-Wells told GamesIndustry.biz.

Battalion Wars II was released the US last October and in Europe in February 2008.