By way of a Gamasutra report, it has come to light that Nintendo is not compensating developers for their WiiWare efforts until a minimum sales threshold is met. While the exact requirement is unknown, it is said to fall within the “mid four-figure” ballpark.

While this condition obviously does not affect the majority, it is arising concern amongst smaller indie developers, a number of which have confirmed that there is sales threshold. The staff of one such studio mentioned in the report feels they may not make the cut.

Is this a huge issue? For most the answer seems to be no, but for smaller studios struggling to meet sales targets, the issue is compounded by the fact that Nintendo does not allow demos of WiiWare titles. Having a playable demo can increase awareness and visibility, especially if your marketing budget is tight.

There’s no word on if a similar operational stipulation is in place for Nintendo’s sister service, DSiWare.

Report: WiiWare’s Minimum Sales Threshold Affects Developers [Gamasutra]

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