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OUYA Android Gaming Console To Start Shipping To Backers March 28
OUYA, the Kickstarter-funded Android gaming console, has already shipped developer consoles, but had yet to specify an exact date when backers could expect their production devices. Today, the company announced that it will be shipping the first OUYA consoles out to backers beginning March 28, ahead of a June retail launch.
The gaming hardware startup shipped its first developer consoles starting December 28, in keeping with its anticipated deadlines from the project outset. A March 28 date for final hardware is also in keeping with OUYA’s original timeline, which called for a March 2013 launch window for OUYA consoles and controllers.
OUYA says to expect it to take “a few weeks” for shipments to be sent out to all backers, who will receive tracking numbers and estimated delivery dates once the consoles begin leaving for their destinations.
Alongside the shipping announcement, OUYA CEO Julie Uhrman also announced some new information around games coming to the platform. Porta’s Kim Swift and Airtight Games are working on an OUYA exclusive, and Minority Media will provide an adventure puzzle game this upcoming fall that makes full use of the OUYA’s touchpad and button controls, something Uhrman says is a first for the platform. Tripwire Interact’s The Ball is also coming to OUYA in March, and the firm is developing an OUYA exclusive for later release as well.
Finally, the OUYA update from the company includes the news that Kellee Santiago, co-founder of Journey studio thatgamecompany is joining the startup to head up developer relations. Clearly, OUYA wants to do everything it can to address criticism around its gaming library.
