Sony has a lot riding and a lot to prove with the upcoming Xperia Play which was previously believed to be the PlayStation Phone. With a focus on gaming, the Xperia Play is designed to feed the hunger of those who want a smartphone and like to game while on the go. Now that we have an understanding of the pricing scheme that will set on games, Sony Ericsson has announced Gameloft’s BackStab will be exclusive on their device for 30 days when it launches in Q2 of 2011. If you look at the pictures of the jump, what should be immediately apparent is that this is not your average smartphone game. Set in colonial times, there are luscious 3D environments with a gameplay that is designed for fights with multiple enemies at once. That’s all that we have on the game currently but will report back, once more information is released.

As always, hit the jump for the full press release and for additional pictures of BackStab.

 Gameloft to Launch BackStab Exclusively on Sony Ericsson Xperia PLAY

PARIS – Gameloft, a leading developer and publisher of downloadable video games, is teaming up with Sony Ericsson to take the next step in immersive gaming on a smartphone with its newest stunning action/adventure thriller, BackStab, on Xperia PLAY. The game will be available exclusively on Xperia PLAY devices for one month, capitalizing on Xperia PLAY’s outstanding graphic capabilities and revolutionary controls.

“We are truly excited to continue our support of Xperia Play with an exclusive release of BackStab, bringing the action adventure experience to a new level,” said Gonzague de Vallois, senior vice president Publishing of Gameloft. “We already have a strong line-up for Xperia PLAY and its capabilities as a fully enabled smartphone with dedicated gaming controls make this device one powerful contender in the gaming space.”

“We are delighted that Gameloft have chosen to launch this stunning new title first on Xperia PLAY. BackStab sets a high benchmark graphically and technically for gaming on a smartphone and it is a fantastic addition to the fast growing portfolio of quality releases for Xperia PLAY”, said Steve Walker, Head of Marketing for Sony Ericsson.

Set on an 18th century Caribbean island, BackStab is an epic story of revenge. Hero Henry Blake has been falsely accused of treason and will go to all means to seek vengeance on his British jailers. With a game play mixing action and adventure, BackStab incorporates an open 3D environment for free roaming. Coupled with dynamic combat systems and counter-attacks, missions include side quests and activities such as duels and races. Gameloft will have 10 games available at launch with two of those titles, Asphalt 6: Adrenaline and Star Battalion embedded on the device. BackStab will be available Q2 2011.