Tech outlet AnandTech received a sneak peak at Unreal Engine 3 running on a third-generation iPod touch, raising the possibility of Games developing a portable in 2010.

PocketGamer pointed out the story, commenting on the likelihood that is teasing an inevitable game.

The developer claims it has no plans to release the technology on iPhone, yet clearly this demonstration is meant as a way of gauging interest - to see whether there's a desire for a hardcore shooter on iPhone (there is) and if other developers would buy an Unreal Engine 3 license for iPhone (probably).

There have been a couple of decent shooters on iPhone, but with Unreal Engine 3 2010 could raise the bar. More on this in the new year.

By Tracy Erickson