Rumblings have once again started to surface regarding Apple and possible plans to enter the videogame market. According to Prudential analyst Jesse Tortora, Apple is hiring game designers, possibly in a bid to enter the market.

Quoted from a note by Tortora to clients:

We think the video game market represents a distinct possibility for Apple, especially considering that it recently announced the availability of video games for its iPod through its iTunes store.

Several news sites have added their own speculation, with Macworld UK noting that Senior Director of iPod Marketing Stan Ng has confirmed that Apple currently has a dedicated team working on iPod games. iWire speculates that the rumored iTV could incorporate some kind of gaming platform technology.

However, this isn't the first time that such speculation has surfaced, and John Martellaro at The Mac Observer lays down an argument that many Mac gamers are no doubt familiar with in regards to why Apple won't be going up against the likes of Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft anytime in the near future.

In the meantime, we'll continue to watch and wait, as always.

Smarthouse - Apple Mac Games Console Considered But Rejected

Macworld UK - Apple making a play for video games?

iWire - Apple games yes, consoles no

The Mac Observer - Hidden Dimensions - It's No Game at Apple

Apple (add to watch list)

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