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Topic: Switch could become the format for RPGs

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StuTwo

Powerful enough to handle versions of any game on PS4/XBox One (albeit perhaps with inferior graphics) but with the huge advantage of being completely portable, the Nintendo Switch should be the logical format of choice for all RPGs going forwards.

RPGs are massive time sinks. It's great to have the option to see fantastic graphics and art direction on the big screen but when you're playing a 40+ Hour game and half of that is grinding in one form or another then a handheld format that lets you grind on the bus or train will almost always win out.

Let's face it, that's why JRPGs migrated to the DS/3DS and PSP/Vita a decade ago. The logical next step for them is the Switch. I think that Western RPGswith their vast open worlds may prove even more well suited to the Switch format.

More importantly than whether or not they would work well on Switch or not is whether or not Nintendo will be able to cultivate an audience of Switch owners who buy RPGs. If they can do that then it becomes a self perpetuating cycle - 3rd parties release RPGs onSwitch, they sell well because there's a receptive audience for them, Switch establishes a reputation as an RPG machine, this encourages more 3rd parties to release RPGs on the console that then sell well because there's an audience for the genre on Switch.

Having Zelda BoTW leading the way means that there will be a high proportion of open world RPG fans buying in on day 1 - nothing could be better to kick start the cycle. For other genres I'm not sure Nintendo will ever establish an audience on Switch but I'm very confident that RPGs will do well on the console and I think that's important because they've been increasingly important in selling consoles in the West.

So what does the picture look like so far in the first 6-12 months?

Zelda (confirmed)
DQXI (confirmed)
Skyrim (all but confirmed)
Xenoblade Chronicles X (rumoured)
Mario X Rabbids RPG (rumoured)

Are there any more already announced/rumoured RPGs?

StuTwo

Switch Friend Code: SW-6338-4534-2507

Buizel

I'd argue that DS/3DS and PSP/Vita became JRPG heavy because handhelds far outperform consoles in Japan. Nonetheless, I see the trend continuing, and hopefully the Switch will see its fair share of RPGs - JRPGs at the very least.

I know many people who prefer to play RPGs on the TV - they'd rather spend a few hours invested in them while at home than play a few minute here and there. I completely understand that, and it's indeed my preference for the story aspect of RPGs. But some of the more tedious / grindy elements? I much prefer those on the go (e.g. Dragon Quest on mobile is great). So personally I would find the Switch ideal for RPGs.

Edited on by Buizel

At least 2'8".

JohnBlackstar

All just comes down to battery life and if consumers are willing to carry around a huge portable console more akin to a tablet for their gaming needs. About 1/3 of the older audience Nintendo may be shooting for already use Tablets in Japan. We might see the 3ds marketed for kids and the Switch for adults.

JohnBlackstar

Grandpa_Pixel

I honestly could see the Switch becoming the format. There are many franchises that could heavily benefit from a hybrid device. Fire Emblem, Pokemon, Bravely, Persona, Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy, Tales, Bethesda. The list goes on.

Overall you are right in your belief. The reason is that with RPGs being long adventures, having a device that can keep you immersed while on the go is a very good thing for an RPG developer. I know if I were to port any of my RPGs it would be the Switch as first choice.

Nintendo have opened the doors for RPGs. Let's hope they enter.

Grandpa_Pixel

TuVictus

I think it's the only place for RPGs to go, honestly. I doubt Sony will make another handheld, and with the 3DS most likely coming out a close after mid next year, I suspect the developers of all these handheld RPGs are going to see switch as the next logical choice for their franchises

TuVictus

CanisWolfred

I dunno, Japanese companies usually aren't too quick to switch to new things. At the very least, if it happens, it might take a lot longer than you'd think.

I am the Wolf...Red
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