Rim has launched the beta version of the Native SDK for BlackBerry Tablet OS, which will allow game developers to code in C/C++ environment and take advantage of a deeper API set. This is a closed beta program which has limited space and developers are to apply to gain access which is on a first come first served basis.
Whats in it for developers:
Using the OpenGL ES 2.0 API, developers can create rich and visually stunning 2D and 3D games for the BlackBerry PlayBook. The Native SDK allows developers to take direct advantage of the power that is inherent in the BlackBerry PlayBook. Developers will be able to build high performance, multi-threaded games. A great example of the interface and graphics that can be built is Need For Speed.
The Native SDK supports accelerometer, device orientation and other device features, as well as a number of POSIX compliant libraries, which will help developers that are porting existing games.
The Native SDK includes the QNX® Momentics Tool Suite, which is an Eclipse-based integrated development environment. QNX Momentics provides memory profiling, application debugging, and memory usage statistics. This will help developers as they debug sophisticated programs, including hardware accelerated OpenGL applications. Developers will be provided with periodic updates QNX Momentics to include additional APIs to further enhance games on the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet platform during Beta period.
Go ahead and sign up for access to the beta program.
