Nintendo has recently shot down rumors for a new game consile this year but it seems that it plans to introduce a new kind of games console and software for emerging markets as early as next year. In an interview with Reuters, Niintendo chief executive on Thursday said the company would develop hardware and games oriented towards consumers with lower incomes and less gaming experience than those in developed countries.

Nintendo is searching for new business opportunities as it seeks to stem losses on its latest home game console, the Wii U, whose flop has contrasted with blockbuster sales for rival Sony Corp's Playstation 4.

Satoru said there were no plans to launch existing hardware such as the Wii U or 3DS in emerging markets, including China.

Iwata added that Nintendo would try to enter the
Chinese market, which recently lifted the ban on foreign video game consoles, although penetration difficulties remain.

Microsoft last month said it would begin selling its Xbox One console through a Chinese partner from September in Shanghai's free trade zone.

Iwata also said Nintendo will release high-tech figurines of some of its most popular characters in time for Christmas this year. The company hopes the models, which will be able to send and receive data from games, will also stimulate software sales.

In January, Iwata had unveiled plans for a new "non-wearable" platform oriented towards "improving customers' quality of life and encouraging them to stick to healthy pursuits."