What's in the box?

Nintendo president Satoru Iwata has claimed that Nintendo has to keep quiet on NX because it believes that competitors will steal the unique ideas it is cooking up for its next console.

Much has been written about the forthcoming console but we still don't have a solid NX release date. However, during a shareholders meeting today, Iwata responded to a question regarding the transition between Wii U and 3DS and the forthcoming NX:

We can't talk about the NX. If we do, competitors may take our ideas and customers won't be surprised. This would not be beneficial for the company or its shareholders. The NX is new hardware, and will start from 0. However, the 3DS and Wii U have install bases. Immediately cutting off software for previous hardware upon the release of a new machine is inefficient. We will continue making 3DS and Wii software while preparing for the NX. We are prioritizing satisfying customers who purchased the Wii U.

Nintendo didn't talk about NX at this year's E3, and has said that it will lift the lid on the new console at next year's event.

These comments are based on unofficial translations and should be taken with a pinch of salt - certainly until the official transcript becomes available - but Iwata's point about keeping the system under wraps is a valid one.

When the Wii was a massive success Sony and Microsoft both tried to get on the motion control bandwagon with their own unique hardware, and it's likely that revealing any innovations the NX might have too early would lead to copycat tactics once more.

Do you think Nintendo is right to hold back information on NX? Share your thoughts with a comment.

[source uk.ign.com, via twitter.com]