Ouya announced plans to ship their Android-based gaming console to backers on March 28. A post on the company's website said parts are already in the factory and the assembly line is buzzing away as they gradually ramp up production. The message further advises gamers to keep an eye on their inbox for an e-mail containing tracking information and estimated arrival date.

The young game company also announced the hiring of Kellee Santiago, co-founder of thatgamecompany (responsible for creating Journey and Flower) and partner with Indie Fund. Santiago will join the Ouya team as the leader of developer relations.

In a published statement, Santiago said Ouya gets it as they are the first console company that really understands how important it is to remove the barriers to development. By freeing up the development process, she says, the company is opening up new doors in console gaming.

Ouya also noted that Kim Swift, responsible for hit titles like Left 4 Dead, Portal and Quantum Conundrum will be working with Airtight Games to create an exclusive title for the console. Swift said the platform gives them the freedom to fully realize the funky, unique game they have in mind. The game is said to appeal to core gamers in terms of skill and difficulty but also has an unexpected, imaginative slant.

The company is still planning a full retail launch this June where systems will be available in brick-and-mortar stores like Best Buy, GameStop and Target. Online shoppers will be able to pick up the console through Amazon, we're told.