Update:
The official English translation of Satoru Iwata's briefing confirms that the quick-start GamePad feature — outlined below — will come in a system update due in the early summer. All other details below are accurate as per the translated briefing.
Original Article:
We will be providing a summary of Satoru Iwata's investor briefing shortly, as we're picking out details that can be reported with some degree of confidence. One announcement that is rather beyond translation doubt, however, is that DS games are on the way to the Wii U Virtual Console.
In a segment of the presentation focused on utilising the GamePad more effectively for the Wii U, Satoru Iwata confirmed the news of DS titles coming to the system along with the pictured diagram; as you can see it'll utilise the size of the controller for a split-screen. On the same page of the investor briefing, so far only released in Japanese, there's also a short video showing a quick load update that will come to the Wii U, which allows you to load games through a quick-start menu on the GamePad; this will cut down on waiting for the full system to boot up. In addition, the same segment of the presentation stated that the NFC functionality of the controller will be highlighted in detail at this year's E3.
So, what do you think of DS games on the Wii U Virtual Console? Let us know below, and head over to the linked page to see the quick-boot mode in action.
[source nintendo.co.jp]
Comments 240
Dream. Come. True. But what about the graphics? And what about the DS games we already own?
Hmmm, honestly I'd like it more if that was 3DS news and not Wii U getting them. I'm not sure if I want Handheld games on Wii U.
I've actually seen people say this should be on 3DS..... it's backwards compatible....
Hmmm..this should be interesting
Wow, the thought crossed my mind, but didnt think it would actually happen. I understand its to help the Wii U, but I hope they make digital DS games available to 3DS owners as well in the future. By the way.. Where are the GBA games??
Sounds awesome! Give me the Castlevania games NOW!
I didn't come for this .....but I will gladly stay
If they can figure out a way to decently account for the horrendous upscaled graphics then this is surely a winner. I'd love nothing more than to play the Professor Layton's on the TV. Honestly if the 3DS library also opens up on the WiiU (although that's highly unlikely and probly makes no actual business sense) I'd be happy forever!
Uh, sure. I guess I chould roll with it.
^This is all I need from that......And Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan with it's sequel.
Let's hope that Freshly-Picked Tingle's Rosy Rupeeland finally gets released in US through this platform.
ummm.. okay. Where's the gameboy advance VC for 3DS?
This isn't a bad idea at all.
Why are people asking for this to be on the 3DS and not the Wii U? You can just buy physical copies for peanuts nowadays. Also its safe to say the 3DS will get these VC titles in time anyway.
@SheldonRandoms I want that too.
I have a 3ds and a dsi, why would I want to play my portable games on my wiiU? How about those gamecube games? Or more n64 games? ................
That is AWESOME. I wonder what the pricing will be.
Know those GBA and N64 games coming to Wii U VC? Nintendo: "let's announce DS games and don't deliver those too!"
They better do another 30 cents promotion for this, GBA, and N64.
@Hordak
this would give me the chance to keep my 3 castlevania ds games sealed and play them on my wii u instead.
just as i suspected
@MixMasterMudkip people can just buy the actual DS game and play it on the 3ds, I don't get it.
This sounds awesome!
I want GBA games on my 3ds!
Oouueeeendaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan!!!!
Please, I love those games, EBA was great, but Osu! Tatake! Ouendan! Is so much more awesome
few things.
1) What DS games. Simple Nintendo DS games, or almost all of them. And, whats the need to, raise sales? Most Wii U owners have a DS/DSi/3DS.
2) I have no need for this, they should concentrate more on gamecube vc
3). If you do this, i may buy or game or two, but how much will it cost. Retail value? if it is, i'll by it pre-owned for my ds.
It's the perfect opportunity to release the third Chibi-Robo! game outside of Japan, Nintendo. Do it...
@MixMasterMudkip
What about games that:
1 - You can't find anymore
2 - Games that are EXTREMELY overpriced?
They should put them on both the 3DS and the WiiU!
@Starzsixty9 GC will likely never happen because Nintendo uses digiital triggers on the Wii U, which means you can't only lightly tap the L/R buttons. Effectively meaning Super Mario Sunshine is never going to be playable on a Wii U Gamepad.
Well. Didn't see this coming.
There needs to be another installment of Elite Beat Agents/Osu! Tatake! Ouendan! like right now for the 3DS and Wii U.
Kirby Canvas Curse
I never saw this coming..but I wonder what the prices will be??
Also... Where the HECK is Super Mario Bros 3?????????
@Starzsixty9 - "why would I want to play my portable games on my wiiU? "
52" screen and surround sound. Though if these are only playable on the Gamepad I agree w/ you 100%.
I wont hold my breathe, they promised Game Boy advance game ages ago.
Use the edit button next time -Lz
Ages ago
All the Sega systems, please.
Odd, yet neat. Wario Ware D.I.Y, Animal Crossing Wild World, Super Mario 64 DS... Yeah, maybe not a bad idea.
Holy cow! Now, that's something different to what I waited for! But it's amazing... If they keep the pace up.
How about Flipnote?
oooohhh awesome!! how about a way the the wiiu to play those cartridges
@Kaine_Morrison You get them on Wii U. No matter what Nintendo is a company, and if a companies product is failing they do what the can to save it. The 3DS is fine while Wii U needs support. Financially, there best move is to do this for Wii U.
First: Where are the GBA games? Sonic Battle? Super Mario Advance series? Mario Sports games? Mario vs DK? Sonic Advance Trilogy? Minish Cap? Four Swords? Pokemon Firered? Emerald?
Second: Phoenix Wright Trilogy for VC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
@blaa6 This man has just released heaven from his mouth.
Uhm I hope they have a plan for how butt ugly 240p looks blown up to 720p
As a happy Wii U owner, and somebody who has never bought a DS or 3DS, I'm very happy with this news!! I can finally play Pokemon Black 2! Hopefully the online components will still work!
Please, does this mean more VC stuff in general. Please Nintendo, your moving in the right direction...
@CaptOlimar30 I agree, they would have to make a dolphin like emulator that would re render the software to 720p... Even then it will still look terrible.
I'd rather have N64 and GameCube on VC
So they finally took Pachter's words to heart......the part about the Wii U being just a big DS lol! He's gonna love this. More importantly I'm loving this news!
@MixMasterMudkip I think he meant eshop. Some rarities could go on the eshop and save a lot of trouble. Fire Emblem, as always, come to mind. Hopefully it gets to the Wii U eshop, then.
@Placlu Yes, that sounds awful... They would need to reconfigure the way Mario launches water with some other control scheme. It will be impossible for a common VC release.
@SheldonRandoms Amen, Brother, Amen! I would also like to see mario kart ds on there as well along with super mario 64
This isn't going to stop the disaster that is wii u, but it's nice that they're thinking now. Hopefully they bring ds games to the 3ds eshop.
So, the Wii U is getting both DS and GBA games? Does Nintendo not want to expand the 3DS VC beyond NES and Game Boy games or something? And why not get Gamecube games on the Wii U? DS and GBA would make so much more sense on the 3DS while the Wii U would get the N64 and Gamecube, which are the most logical platforms for that VC.
We get DS games on Wii U VC, but yet no Nintendo 64, Genesis/Mega Drive, Gamecube, and possibly Dreamcast? Also, the 3DS still needs SNES and GBA games.
Why? Why not focus on getting a lot more NES and SNES titles on the virtual console? Why not start adding N64 titles and Gamecube titles? Why the DS? Many tens of millions of people have access to DS titles through their old DS or 3DS, already and I'd bet that about every single Wii U owner already has one or both of those systems.
I have no desire for this at all. I might buy one or two games I missed... if they release any of those in their ever-slow trickle of one VC game per week.
I did not buy an HD Nintendo console to play 192p games that are ONE generation old and can already be played on my current-gen 3DS by just sticking the cart in the socket.
I'm not regretting my Wii U purchase, but I'm starting to lose faith in Nintendo to save the system with announcements like this that just reek of desperation. I really hope they aren't sacrificing dev-time for actual console games on this.
At least they're changing the pace with the Virtual Console. I'm hoping for some sweet deals on DS downloads!
Well there are some DS games I missed, I'll likely download some if they're available. But I do wish GCN games would come instead.
I think this is a step in the right direction. honestly I think 3DS eshop DL titles should be on the Wii U as well. I also think NIntendo should allow you to swap save files between the Wii U and 3DS. cross compatibility would be great
@LexKitteh All 3DS's are backwards compatible with the DS games so chances are that wouldn't happen.
I know this is a pipe dream, but here would be my dream VC lineups for the 3DS and Wii U
3DS
Game Boy
Game Boy Color
NES
Game Boy Advance
Nintendo DS
Wii U
NES
SNES
N64
Gamecube
Wii
Why not put Wii VC games onto the Wii U? Those would make more sense than trying to shoehorn DS games onto a platform where they make no sense.
@vattodev I realize he was talking about the eShop, but they are putting it on Wii U for pure financial reasons. Since GBA Nintendo's handhelds have always been more solid devices, and now that they have a console closer to them that needs support they are using these games people want to help the system. Also, we had to beg and petition are butts off for EarthBound on VC I'm not expecting anything truly rare on the VC.
@lckulczak With the current pricing ($5 NES games, $8 SNES, $10 N64, $6 GBC) I'd be surprised if DS games are less than $10 on VC. I wouldn't be surprised at all if they're more than that.
Sure, it's not the $30 we paid back in the day, but it's still going to be exponentially higher than, say, Steam sales.
Always count on Nintendo to do something awkward! Of course those DS games should be on the 3DS e-shop!!
By the way: Maybe they only release DS games where you originally hold the DS as a book, like the pictured Brain training game?
Iwata says that DS games will drive hardware sales of Wii U by showing off the second screen experience....that's just stupid. There's right way and a wrong way to relive the glory days. Pretty sure this is the wrong way.
@Noonch It doesn't matter people love the DS.
@WaveBoy As much as I would love to see the Saturn emulated, its very unlikely to happen at this point. The Saturn is very difficult to emulate, and it is one of the few platforms that does not have a decent Computer emulator, and on consoles, its even chances of being emulated are even worse.
From what I've read, the Saturn's hardware is the problem. The Dual CPU setup is difficult to emulate, even on modern platforms.
Now, while the Saturn might be out, I don't see any reason why the Sega CD, Dreamcast, and Sega Arcade games can't be emulated on modern platforms. There are tons of classics on those platforms that deserve a second chance.
@Noonch Agreed. All this shows is that they can't come up with any new ideas for second-screen, so they're just going to recycle the old ones. And let's be honest, most DS games just threw a map or something on the second screen, and many others require both screens to be equally visible, making Wii U an awkward setup compared to a handheld.
They should be focusing on NEW Wii U titles and stop just pasting the TV feed onto the Gamepad in their first party AAA Nintendo titles. Did they honestly run out of ideas between NintendoLand and Game & Wario? Why not put out something like a Pokémon Snap U that really shows off the second screen?
To be honest, I think this would make more sense for the 3DS Virtual Console even though the system is backwards compatible.
@MixMasterMudkip I think that's his angle. It'll be met with more apathy. The 3DS has a higher install base so if he's looking to squeeze pennies he's barking up the wrong tree. Can you imagine anyone ever saying, "You know, I want a PS4...but Wii U is gonna get DS games so I'll buy that instead"?
I like the idea, but I have one thing to complain about. Why isn't this functionally on 3DS. Why didn't they put Gamecube VC. That's what people including me want. But other then that it sounds like a good idea.
I think they should focus on releasing more games a week from other systems before starting on DS releases. Come on Nintendo.
... This is literally the best thing that could possibly happen for people like me who can't get into handhelds!
@Placlu I'm sure there's a way around that. Sunshine is probably a candidate for an HD remake anyways. Also it's not the idea way to play if you're using solely the gamepad as your primary screen, but you can always use the classic controller set up for GameCube games, which I do believe have analog triggers. For the GameCube owners among us we could use a GC controller adapter if we wanted an authentic experience...
That's great but I am still waiting for N64 and GBA games to come to the Wii U VC. Besides who knows how long it will be till we get DS games I mean we in NA are still waiting for Super Mario Bros 3.
Wii U needs the boost more than the 3DS right now so I don't think this is a bad move. I'll be interested to see what happens with it in the future.
S*** just got real. O.O
I wrote about this on another site just before the Wii U was released. I really hope that they do it with the GamePad as the bottom screen and the TV as the top, though. If it's all on the GamePad all the time, that wouldn't really be worth it. Especially with the plethora of DS/3DS systems in my house.
This news is Good! I wonder though if you can see & play the games on TV? Be interesting to know as Mario 64 remake will tempt me!!
Will we get China Town Wars?
I don't mind having more games but this scares me: Iwata-san says, “The DS will be the main driver for profit for the next fiscal year and the firm will focus on more efficient marketing.” MAIN driver for profit? DS games? Iwata please..
@MrWalkieTalkie
I hope so!
Just read the above comment, there are other ways they can make profit agreed. The can start with a release of the SNES controller for the Wii instead of disappearing from Nintendo club shop, they could bring out NES and N64 controllers to enhance our enjoyment of playing VC games like they were back in the day. Next year Super Mario celebrates his 30th Birthday and Nintendo could do with doing a proper Mario Collection games-disc!
@Darthziggy
It wouldn't make sense at all, having it all on the G-Pad; the control and view would be wrong and smaller than an original one. It would be nice to stream 3DS through the Wii U. I'd even pay a nominal fee, if a small device were needed to "boost the connection" between them, though I don't believe that's needed...
does this mean VC pokemon games?
I wish they'd just make a USB adapter for physical DS cards. The idea of having to repurchase something you already own is kind of crappy.
@Noonch I'm sure he means 3DS... At least I hope that's what he means xD
Didn't see this coming!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'll keep an eye on the service, so long as the games are cheap I may double dip on a few games!!!!
...I, er...ok then. lol
If they went for a USB attachment to use DS carts (like the GameBoy Player), I would have been sold but going digital for DS games that most people still own is a no go. The only way this could work is if Nintendo gets their act together and iron out cross play between their platforms. At this point, it's quite ridiculous that you have to choose which version of a digital game you want between 3DS & Wii U. For example, the fact that Castlevania II for NES hit both consoles on the same day and you have to choose which one you want to buy for $5 is just plain stupid. This is even more infuriating when you consider that the required Nintendo Network ID can easily utilize this feature. While I am against the cries for Nintendo to go third party or put their games on smartphone (a horrible idea), I do feel they need to get their s#!t together in regards to their own devices and how they work together. Combine this with the painfully slow virtual console release schedule and Nintendo is clearly throwing money down the tube.
Apparently Operation Ridiculous Ideas are still in full swing at Nintendo HQ... Why not:
-Put GameCube/N64 on Wii U?
-Put GBA/DS/VB games on 3DS?
-Make NES, SNES games cross platform (3DS and WiiU one copy purchase or make it 0.50 extra for both platforms).
-Majora's Mask 3D!!!
I guess Nintendo is trying to tap into the huge user base that the DS had...I hope they put some of the great DS games on the Wii U and the flow of games is faster than the current Virtual Console releases... Pretty good idea I think, I just hope it works out for the Big N!!!
@NintendoMaster Pretty much. When are those coming?
I want any kind of DS games on WII U Virtual Console.
I want a DS player, like the GBA player on the Game Cube. Don't give me digital downloads. I want to play my real game carts!!! Use that unutilized data port on the bottom of the gamepad so I can add a dongle onto it that plays DS carts. Buy the DS dongle and download the DS/3DS Player from the eShop for free.
Also Game Cube VC please. Super Mario sunshine could still be playable. Move the Z trigger to the select (-) button. The L/R triggers could be used to simulate the Game Cube flippers. The top trigger could simulate a half pressed analog; the bottom trigger could simulate a full click press. For instance, in Mario sunshine, press R to run around with the spray nozzle; Rz to stand and spray.
This may give me an opportunity to play games I missed out on.
this is stupid, Digital DS and GBA games should be on the 3DS where they'll make money, I know they think keeping those exclusive to the Wii U would help sell the system whereas 3DS doesn't need the help, but very few people would buy Wii U only for DS and GBA they should instead be thinking of making money
Sounds awesome but, I also hope they open the door for all games before the Wii to be on the Virtual Console too.
This is unexpected and somewhat cool. I guess the logic behind not having this on the 3DS is the fact that the 3DS is already backwards compatible. The pricing structure will make or break this though.
@Caryslan No sense!?! Its the only bloody home console with 2 screens! ITS GENIUS.
At least with this we'll finally get StarFox and Metroid Prime games on the WiiU xD
WHY ARE PEOPLE GETTING MAD ABOUT THIS. THE IDEA IS GENIUS. THE SYSTEM HAS 2 SCREENS. YOU CAN BUY DS GAMES ALREADY FOR 3DS. THIS IS GOOD FOR VIRTUAL CONSOLE.
I don't care about crappy DS games just give me SEGA systems on VC
Cool. But I hope the unified account thing happens so we can play the same game we paid for already on the 3DS.
I have nearly every DS game I ever want to own, and have no desire to play through them again (let alone paying for them again) so I'm not really feeling this news. Is it that hard to release some N64, GBA or even GC games on the VC? Clearly not if they're going to the effort of putting DS games on, which means they're just choosing not to release any. I can't believe how frustrating the Wii U VC is.
Oh, depending on the game, this might put the Wii U higher than the PS3 on my want list.
I didn't expect that to happen.
Game cube and wii games should be made available on the e shoo for wiiu
Still waiting for those GBA games....
Annoying...
Mainly because I'd rather just have a way to play my 3DS on the tv, thus making it possible to play and DS game I own on the TV.
I think it's awesome. Surely I don't think it's going to boost up Wii U sales, but it is a great addition to have the DS library.
Now, how about them GameCube ones?
I can't wait to pay $30+ dollars for 7 year old games!
@Henmii I think that the DS game Hotel Dusk Room 215 would fit that side by side screen setup on the Gamepad perfectly... A lot of people really enjoyed the game too but I really hope that Nintendo releases more than just the games that used the DS in that sideways manner or I would be very disappointed
About damn time! I've been mumbling about since I first heard about the Gamepad. Nintendo should have had DS games on Wii U from day 1. It's a huge library of great games that many Wii U owners would be happy to have access to.
@SheldonRandoms are they seriously implying its going to work in some way other than this? If so, R&D needs to be shot.
TV=top screen, Gamepad=touchscreen. For gods sake, Nintendo, get it right for a change.
I'd like:
Metroid Prime Hunters, Mario 64 DS, The World Ends With You, Star Fox Command, Chibi Robo: Park Patrol, Wario Master Of Disguise, WarioWare: Touched, Yoshi's Island DS, Mario Hoops: 3 on 3, Zelda: Spirit Tracks, Donkey Kong: Jungle Climber, Elite Beat Agents and Advance Wars: Dual Strike.
The DS is an awesome system! Only problem is that these games are designed to be portable not through home but whatever this is awesome and I've still yet to get the Wii U!!!!!!
I thought this would get positive attention, but no. The fans are b***ing about it. Nintendo fans annoy me more than MicroSony fanboys.
Nintendo fans in a nutshell: WE WANT THIS, WE WANT THAT! BLAH BLAH BLAH! WE'RE NEVER HAPPY! What's this? DS games on the VC? NOOO!! That SUCKS! We need Gamecube, GBA, GBC, GB, 3DS, Atari 2600, PS1, and Xbox 360 games on the VC instead!
Now if you excuse me me, I'm moving to PlayStation. At least the PS fans don't complain as much.
GBA Please
Man did it take a while to get to the bottom of those comments
DS games on Wii U is crazy talk from Nintendo! Im still waiting for GBA games to hit the 3DS eshop, and lets not forget that the Wii U's vitual console selection is crap compared to the Wii's. Step your game up Nintendo!
Whilst I do like this idea and would certainly make use of it, what we want to know now is WHEN? WHEN are we getting DS, GBA and N64 games on the VC? It's counter productive to announce these things and get people excited and then we have to wait over a year without seeing any of it. Even if it won't launch for another 6 months, just say so so people don't get disappointed every week.
Wii games on the 3DS, please Nintendo!
I still think they should of done it that 3DS gets the DS games, and Wii U gets all the VC games including DS games, Including gamecube. I know everyone including me has been waiting to this. But who knows Nintendo could surprise us in the future. Edit I just noticed that the article says that Nintendo will be doing NFC on the Gamepad, aww man this has to be good. E3 will be good this year!!!
I think this is just the tip of the iceberg.
DS games on the Wii U... o_O
I guess so...
Seems like it'd make more sense to put portable games on a portable...
Anything to make the GamePad seem "worthwhile," right? ¬_¬
@Jese_1 This is also true. It seems like Nintendo loves announcing things for the future of the system and then hoping the system will sell on potential. It takes so long for most of their stuff to reach the end user that these announcements rarely have a positive effect on those of us who already own the system, so how will they bring new buyers to their door?
Very interesting idea! Excited to see how they will make use of the dual screen for those games. It definitely forces you to use the gamepad, which is great. I wish I could use my existing DS collection, as it is MASSIVE, but still.
@SheldonRandoms Heck yes!
This would be a really nice extra, but... far down the list of stuff I'm eager to see on VC. N64, Cube, Saturn and DC games on Wii U, GBA games on 3DS. I'd probably try it, but considering how much people complain that DS games look awful when blown up to 3DS screens....
@Peach64 Hellyeah Peach. Really think they could make a killing with DC games. Since they have a such good relationship with Sega.
It's a good sign. I hope there is graphics filters or something because they might look pretty horrible stretched out. Hope this is a sign of things to come I want a way to play 3ds games through my wii u as well and more virtual console choice.
Dreamcast Virtual Console where are you?
@SheldonRandoms Same here
I had not even considered the possibility of DS games on Wii U, but now that it's been announced, I really want this.
I hope that by the end of the generation though, the Wii U VC has a solid library of games from both Nintendo and Sega platforms up to the Gamecube and Dreamcast. GBA games on the 3DS would be great too.
They need to make it so that DS games/DSiWare can be played on 3DS without you losing the potential for StreetPasses! I never understood exactly why I had to sacrifice that connectivity just to be able to play my older games.
@Emblem Carrying more than one cart about is annoying. Lots of the best ones are overpriced only available used and which the sale of gets zero for Nintendo.
What the hell??? Why are GBA and DS games going to be on WiiU and not on their obvious home, 3DS??
Is Nintendo trolling us or are they just trying to demonstrate how non-sensical they can be?
Put N64, GC and if possible, Saturn and/or Dreamcast games on WiiU's VC and GBA and DS on their natural home, the 3DS. Once that is done, do whatever you want, but give the people what the people wants... it's about time.
@Emblem peanuts? Bowser's Inside Story is still at 40 €. The same as... Super Mario 64 DS!! And most of the games aren't available new.
I don't understand why haven't they gone for DS VC (on the 3DS) from day one. There are many games that have been out of stock for many years that could benefit from this second life.
And if not, why aren't GBA games on the VC? A lot of people is clamoring for them and it is the obvious evolution. Some of us even have ten of them thanks to the ambassadors program, why don't they sell them to everyone else? It's a bunch of great games.
Nintendo has an amazing catalog of games, they should take advantage of it. Releasing A Link to the Past two or three months before A Link between Worlds was a missed opportunity (on the 3DS).
I just hope they come up with a good price. I have never had a ds so bring it on!
I'd rather have GBA games on either consoles, but I'm not inherently against this change of pace. Still, will we be able to have the upper screen on the TV and the lower on the pad, if so, what about games that doesn't use touch controls at all? Will we be able to put 'em together on the TV like pictured for the pad as well?
Things that need to happen:
The ability to choose which screen to show on the TV. Just top screen (for things like New Super Mario)....Just bottom screen (For things like Castlevania Dawn of Sorrow)... both screens (For things like Sonic Rush). Some games take into account the space between the screens, and some games don't. For example, when aiming eggs in Yoshi's Island DS, the egg will travel through the "blank space" between the two screens. This needs to be an option to set as well, because some games don't do this.
The GamePad should also have these options, but its touchscreen should obviously always act as the DS's touchscreen.
Also, I would love for DS games that I already own to be streamed to the WIi U, possibly through use of a 3DS... but I will likely not even touch this service if I have to buy all my DS games again.
After seeing the video in the page linked the quick-start feature seems pointless to me and not that quick, it only skips the very brief moment it takes to completely load Wara-Wara plaza and your games and apps in the Home menu.
As for DS in virtual console, Id rather play those games on their actual console, but I know there were some people looking forward to it and Im glad for them. By the way, I assume you can also play with both screens, right?
i'm still waiting for GBA, dreamcast & gamecube VC you know...
So, how about those GBA VC games on the 3DS...
Meh, I feel they could had just made a DS Player adapter (like GB Player) for the Wii U instead of re-releasing all the old stuff for VC. Unless they are going to completely re-release all the DS games in HD, I'm not really sure I'm interest in re-buying all my DS games just for the console. Besides DS games aren't retro enough to deserve a VC release anyways.
sounds cool if done correctly. but i'd much rather have some new ip's and some new franchise games rather than old ports.
nostalgia is fine but not everything. this is why Nintendo is in trouble. they stay in the past and if continued they will be a part of the past as well. i'm tired of the wii u gloom.
A good move, but like some of you stated already, it's not going to move much units. Who would buy a Wii U to play DS games on it?
Pricing looks to be around £12-£15 per ds game what's your thoughts?
Would you guys like Metroid prime Hunters with online and two analog sticks? That would be awesome!
FINALLY i can play Phoenix Wright! GIMME GIMME GIMME
id get Metroid Prime Hunters again lol and HOPEFULLY Okami Den... but i do agree it would have made more seance on 3DS ohwell atlest we get this at some point --- just had a thought though maybe its to show developers iders on how to use the game pad idk if enione elce sed it too menny comments lol
@Placlu
right stick press would work fine.
So occasionally a DS game will replace the one NES/SNES game that we get every couple of weeks?
Finally. This always had to happen.
@SockoMario Bye bye!
hmmm..well....umm.....hmmm...I. Don't. Knowww.
Sure, why not. But as I always say, put handheld-related content on handhelds firstly, then as an extra on consoles. Getting GBA VC on Wii U and not 3DS will grind my gears. 3DS needs its VC expanded up to the SNES/DS: so put everything from the NES to the SNES, the GB to the GBA (DS cartidges are compatible anyway) on the 3DS; and everything from the NES to the GC (handheld VC content can be an extra if they decide to do it) on the Wii U.
Wow! Quick boot mode is such an awesome idea! It's such a simple idea, but it will eliminate frustration. Good job guys.
@justlink ive never had a ds, and im dying to play zelda phantom hourglass and spirit tracks on my wii u...actually, i wanna all zeldas to come to wii u eventually
I can't believe how many people are complaining about DS on Wii U Virtual Console! This is terrific news. The people that keep saying DS should be on the 3DS VC... the 3DS is backward-compatible, so it's not even necessary. And not every Wii U owner has a DS/3DS/2DS (like yours truly) so this opens a whole new door for games I otherwise would have never played. And Quick Boot sounds amazing! Can't wait for that update.
I'm quite giddy for DS games on Wii U VC! Hope they're a good price! I'm excited to play DS games on the Wii U gamepad, I wonder how long we'll have to wait on the release & if there will be a lot of third party DS games or just Nintendo's games. I was going to play LoZ: Phantom Hourglass & LoZ: Spirit Tracks again soon too but now I'll wait until they're on the Wii U VC
DS on 3DS yes but Wii U no thanks would rather have -
More NES - SNES games on Wii U!
Add N64 - Gamecube - Wii games on Wii U!
kewl, just like the gba games you mentioned over a year ago
No. I mean, did anyone REALLY ask for this? Nintendo need to create proper focus groups made up of core fans and people who are not interested in their games and systems. I'd love to know who thinks up these ideas.
The fact that there's no mention of the Virtual Console coming to 3DS is just mind-boggling.
Are they going to be played purely on the GamePad like on the screen shot? That'll just be messy seeing as one of the screens it'll be emulating isn't a touch screen while still being on the touch screen. Top screen on the TV while the GamePad is the touch screen but when you're looking at the TV the GamePad screen is out of sight. The DS was designed so you see both screens at once.
If I were Iwata I would be doing this:
Unifying the eShop. Buy 3DS games on your Wii U, have them download to the your 3DS if it's connected automatically. And vice-versa. Unify the Virtual Console. All Nintendo systems (excluding Wii and DS as you can still buy and play those games on the current-gen systems) become available. So that's NES, Game Boy, SNES, Game Boy Color, N64, Game Boy Advance and Gamecube all on Wii U. Same on 3DS, though Gamecube might be a problem. All games are cross-platform purchases so if you buy it on Wii U, you can download it on 3DS. You can even send saves to the cloud and vice-versa so you can continue your game on the move.
@Placlu Oh... why didn't anyone tell us before?!
So it both d.s screens are on the gamepad, will the t.v be used at all? It's interesting news but I would've preferred Gamecube and Dreamcast.
The DS thing is nice, I could see myself enjoying Phantom Hourglass (or Dragon Warrior, like that'll ever happen) on the gamepad, sure.
But their entire back catalog should be available for digital download. NES-Wii, including other systems they have the rights to.
@SockoMario chill out mate.
@TreesenHauser People want DS games on the 3DS eshop, because many of them are now rare and very pricy at retail.
How will they look on a HD tv? Or will we have to play using the gamepad vertically?
Great, now we can wait for them to release one every few weeks like with everything else on VC. Hopefully they start with games no one wants while promising great ones that take forever to arrive. Sorry for the pessimism but Nintendo has really disappointed with VC support for the Wii U.
Oh yeah finally I can play Okamiden, and the sequels of Advance wars!
GBA VC 4 3DS pls
@Deviant_Mugen Yes! Chibi-Robo, please!
@andreoni79 I don't know quite yet, but I'm sure Nintendo's finding a way to optimize them for HDTV's and other displays. And if people want those rare and pricey games bad enough, they can either;
1) Shop around more for those harder-to-find games. Even if they are pricey, if people want them bad enough they'll invest in them.
2) Or, people can pull an EarthBound; complain a ton of times on Miiverse about it and maybe Nintendo will listen.
For now though, facts are facts. Why would Nintendo waste time implementing DS on the 3DS Virtual Console if it can already play those games just fine through the cart slot? Either way, common sense should dictate that Nintendo will offer more information through a Direct.
Though I will say this; if Nintendo is seriously hoping that people would be just fine with playing DS games exclusively on the GamePad's screen, I'm out. No. Freaking. Way.
I wonder if NFC could be the killer app for the Wii U among kids. I mean if they had a Skylanfinity-esque game where you can use Ninty characters it could possibly make the console a must-have for kids all around the world.
I need more details on the DS games though. If they'll have games like the Castlevania's,
Contra 4,Metal Slug 7 and many others look good on the big screen i'd certainly be interested in buying them again for the right price.They should also bring them to the 3DS though. They may still be available in some stores, but for the general public it'd be easier to just buy them in the eShop imo.
Portrait of Ruin!!!!!
To me, this seems like time and effort misspent. A DSi XL provides a bigger screen than a split-screen GamePad, better battery life and complete portability. Playing on a TV screen would likely mean a grotesquely pixelated image. So who exactly are we targeting? People who don't own a DS? And with Nintendo's history of VC releases, will we even see a meaningful number or selection of games?
Meh. I can still play DS games on my 3DS, which is part of Nintendo's current gen (and on my DS, haven't gotten rid of it, and don't intend to). I'd much rather get N64 and Gamecube titles.
I gotta admit it IS pretty neat that this wouldn't be possible without the gamepad, though. Hopefully they're considering some sort of adaptor to let us play our physical 3DS games on the Wii U when we're home? Now THAT would get me excited.
@SheldonRandoms I'm throwing money at my screen but nothing happens!!
@TreesenHauser
The issue isn't just the price, keep in mind we're talking about generation old games here. Nintendo's games are notorious for having over-inflated prices. You don't see a problem with a game like MKDS still being over $30?
As for "pulling an Earthbound", you do realize this is Nintendo we're talking about, right? Pulling an Earthbound would be just that, waiting 15-20 years for them to listen.
Digital DS games on the 3DS actually makes more sense, considering how little work they'd have to do to make that work. Even then, if people would want digital 3DS games, why wouldn't they also want digital DS games as well? It also didn't stop Sony from selling PS1 games for the already backwards compatible PS3.
If they upscale the graphics there's a few games I'd like (mostly DSiWare) but the visuals are key. I briefly owned a GameCube and bought the Super Gameboy adapter for it and GBA games blown up on my plasma screen didn't look good enough for me to bother with it.
Any new content is good, but it has to be the right content. I can't say I'd be interested in New Super Mario Bros. when I already have New Super Mario Bros. U, but Starship Defence? Yeah I'd buy that in a heartbeat.
@Zombie_Barioth I don't know where you shop for games, but on Amazon MKDS is actually around $17 brand new through third-party sellers. A very fair price. So as I said, people should shop around at more places than GameStop and Walmart. (and I know MKDS is just one example.)
And Sony sold PS1 games on PS3, not only so people could play on the home console, but on their PSP as well, which is something Nintendo SHOULD do, but I'm not holding my breath. Maybe one sunny day, Nintendo will put DS games on 3DS via Virtual Console and even allow Wii U owners to transfer said games to their 3DS. But until then, this is as good as it gets I suppose.
So it's not like I'm completely opposed to digital DS games hitting the 3DS eShop; all I'm saying is for now, at least be glad 3DS is backwards-compatible.
Sounds POTENTIALLY really cool but what's the bets they are offered in some gimped frustrating form?
I'll give you a simple example; they offer you DS games on the VC service for Wii U, which sounds awesome at first glance, but they are an additional separate purchase if you want to play them on 3DS too rather than a single purchase allowing you to play the game on whatever Nintendo platform you own whenever you choose, which is obviously what we'd all ideally want to see.
You know, that whole unified accounts and single VC/eShop service where you can buy just one universal copy of certain games, the ones that would make sense like most VC games, and play them on any current Nintendo console of your choice as and when you see fit.
My gut tells me this is just going to be another way of Nintendo making you pay for the same games over and over again when it could truly satisfy and even entice far more people who might currently be on the fence regarding the Wii U by letting them buy one copy of the game that plays across both/all devices.
To me this kind of thing (failing to realize the full potential of it's features and services etc, in a way that actually genuinely satisfies the large majority of entertainment/gaming consumers and not just the most stubbornly loyal FANS) has been one of Nintendo's biggest problems and downfalls, repeatedly, over the last few generations.
The most stubbornly loyal to a fault FANS will be overjoyed to buy the same games once again just to play them on Wii U, and personally I expect that's pretty much all people are going to get to from Nintendo be honest (I REALLY hope I'm wrong), but MOST people will only be truly happy/satisfied with and enticed by this value proposition if it allows them to pay for a single copy of the game and play it across all their Nintendo device.
I REALLY hope Nintendo is aware of this and is smart enough to do it right.
Heh, I left a comment on the article, "Talking Point: Is There A Future For The Wii U GamePad" saying that Nintendo should bring 3DS HD ports to Wii U (through the eShop with a crossbuy system). This is one step closer to that idea, I guess.
The GamePad has to stay, because it gives the Wii U the true ability to replicate playing a 3/DS game on a TV better than any other method out there.
That actually sounds pretty awesome.
I don't have very many DS Games (Pokemon and a few others), so I wouldn't mind playing them on the Wii U from VC.
However, if I could buy one of the games released cheaper used to play on my backwards compatible 3DS, there may be an issue unless I REALLY want that game and can't find it ANYWHERE else.
DS.... games.... on Wii U... I.. want Pokemon heart Gold and Soul Silver.... if they release those with this, they will have a fan forever.
The other pokemon games will also be good... plus Golden Sun
eh they done this before yet they never fully put tittles that some of us want but were are the gba games or gc games?
This is actually a stupid move. Just like they did bringing GBA games on Wii U Virtual Console, they're doing the same crap with DS games.
Besides, the 3DS has a backward compatibility playing DS games. You can get games cheaper at retailer than on the VC.
I just admitted it. Another stupid move by Nintendo.
all of my dreams are coming true, now put solatorobo on there and I will love you forever
@TreesenHauser You are right, but you are talking only with core gamers, cutting of the 50% of customers that made the fortune of 3DS and Wii.
Don't you think that my niece and thousands of new gamers would happily spend €10/15 for games like Super Princess Peach or Kirby Canvas Curse on the 3DS eshop instead of looking for cartridges that costs, here in Italy, €50 on Amazon and €30 at Gamestops (used, and always not available)? Parents of kids who had a 3DS as first console should love these cheap Ninty games...
Won't there be... like... a big difference between the size of the screens...? Wouldn't that be kinda weird...? ...both screens are kinda supposed to be the same size... but this is neat otherwise!
@andreoni79 Yeah, you're right. As I said before I'm not entirely opposed to it.
This wouldn't be terrible news if the Wii U wasn't in it's disastrous state. But The Wii U is drowning and this announcement confirms that Iwata is on Sony's payroll to consistently NOT listen to potential buyers and critics advice and punish their current fans with crappy VC games and terrible online service. Don't get me wrong, DS games are a great addition, why not on the 3DS is totally weird to me but HEY it's a nice add. It's just so far off from fixing the problem that I believe Iwata is totally insance and no one has the guts to get rid of him. THE MADNESS OF KING IWATA!
PROFESSOR LAYTON FOR THE WII UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!!!!!!!!!!
Overdrive mode
So, when are we getting those DS games? Sometime in 2018 when the GBA games come out too?
This isn't in response to the DS and pirated ROMs/flashcarts, is it? Because if so, I would rather they focus on those of us dedicated to paying them huge sacks of coins in the here and now.
I don't hate this news. I'm not against it. I am simply numb to it, though. If some message is included about "What?! GBA on the 3DS VC? Sorry peebles who want to pay us money for things given to those faithful Ambassadorial folk... we're not interested in your chickenscratch at this time." Then I wouldn't keep my hopes up. I'd let them die, with dignity. The same as my hopes for an official [English] Earthbound sequel died, which included an open wake at the Hyperbole Funeral Parlor, as well as an open bar for drowning my exaggerated and inflated sorrows.
Seriously though, Nintendo: help me help you, because I don't mind giving you money for things that I want. This may be a way to get coins from other folk, so I cannot and will not knock it. But please don't ask me to be excited for it, when I was already excited for so many other things first.
Could we possibly have those N64, GBA and Turbografx games first? You did kind of promise those beforehand and I'm sure having 4 new consoles should boost the game numbers a little more each week. Also, give the 3DS 1 or 2 new VC Consoles as well! That barrel of NES, GB/GBC and Game Gear games is being scraped at the bottom as we speak.
Ah well, just 1 more console out the way for Gamecube games.... XD
The Quickload sounds great. That's really what consoles should be, something you just flick on and then you're playing.
I still love that about older consoles.
DS games on Virtual Console sounds great, but not necessarily like much of a system seller. Games not relying on hold the DS on the side are also not likely to be playable on the same off-screen manner as Brain Age.
I'll be very curious to see which games they bring out first, though.
This makes no sense whatsoever. If it were on the 3DS, it would be excellent.
@BooJoh $10 price wouldn't be too bad, considering retailers are still selling Super Mario 64 DS for $30.
@TromboneGamer Such thing doesn't and probably will never exist.
If Phantom Hourglass is ever released, I wonder how the puzzle that required you to close your system will work...
I hope for games with 3D models that they aren't restricted to the low resolution of the DS screen; it'd be nice to play Mario 64 DS with 1080p visuals, even if the textures aren't changed and there's still no analogue support.
Uhhh... The DS screen resolution was 256x192.
Unless they upscale or do something, the games are going to look atrocious on both the TV and gamepad.
Imagine... Like the Gamecube Game Boy Player... A Wii U (2/3)DS Player attachment... Nintendo has always been the greatest at making one system play several system's libraries. And owning so many (3)DS games makes it a guaranteed purchase.
I think there'd be a few games I'd consider, and I think stuff like True Swing Golf would be pretty fun on there too, but it would come down to price. They need to be smart about it considering how much the left over old stock new and used games sell for at shops these days and online. They'll need to keep it in the $5-10 range or they can forget it as a lot of people wouldn't bother.
I'm more interested about this instant start up with games as I'm fed up with dealing with that slow menu when I already have a disc in the drive and just want to get to it already. Hell it would be nice if it just logged into the existing user account when I power up instead of dealing with that too since there's only one on there.
WiiU is a great console and one of my favorites, of all times. But of course it need to get better. This is what Nintendo should do to improve the situation of the WiiU in my opinion:
What do you think?
@Starzsixty9 i don't have 3DS and DS... i only have Wii and Wii U.
Y'know what would be really smart? Nintendo literally releasing everything they legally can, from the Wii shop, to the WU e-Shop; they could release those games "as-is", then every week release just one, or 2 updates to one, or two of those "as-is" games, bringing them up(graded) to WU emulation (functionality/standards). Whilst not perfect, it would allow them to pretty much dump the entire(again, what they legally can) Wii VC over to WU.
As for how purchases would be handled, you could still Wii-mode play any, & all (of) your (previously purchased) Wii VC titles for free, if you wanted to. There should also be an option where you could (also) purchase the WUVC ver.s of those games, have the game, but only in its Wii VC, & then since you already paid for the WU variant, you get the upgrade free, when it hits. This guarantees you can still play the game, just under its old Wii VC emulation, until the WU VC emulation variant is released.
Another way to purchase would be that the e-Shop would be updated to allow dividing of funds, & you could set aside on your console, the funds, & set them to automatically go for the upgraded WU VC version of a game. In the meantime, you could play the game, but under Wii VC mode. Again, it's not perfect, but it could work very similar to everything I just mentioned before this sentence, & above.
DS games on WU sound alright, save for upscaling issues. I imagine at most, Nintendo will use some softening filters, to de-sharpen the image, & make it less pixalted. While it would be smart to also(emphasis on in-addition-to) release an adaptor that plays DS carts, I imagine Nintendo sees digital as cheaper, that hardware(like a dongle) would just (turn people off to the idea, or) encourage people to (just) go, & buy a used (physical) DS(which, availability-wise, would be easy enough currently), or that a company would start knock-off dongles(The GameBoy Player actually had knock-offs in the market, that I could easily get in my local stores years ago).
@TreesenHauser
Hm, your right, the price actually went down a bit too.
Anyway, shopping around is all well and good, but in the case of most Nintendo games thats usually a fruitless effort.
What @andreoni79 said is exactly the point I'm trying to make. One of the big selling points to digital legacy content is the low cost and availability. You don't always have the choice to shop around, sometime even the lowest price is too high. Look at what happened with Xenoblade.
I'm aware that Sony also sells PS1 games for the PSP too, what you just said is exactly what I was getting at. I'd say we're on the same page now. DS games on the Wii U is a good start, lets just hope Nintendo doesn't screw it by over-pricing things or barely putting games up.
Wow, I thought this would get a positive reaction. I for one, am excited.
now this is what I am talking about nintendo! This should have been a feature of the Wii U from the beginning. The only problem is, it should be both the DS and 3DS games! Regardless, this will help the fledgling console's lack in it game library. Now, please release some media apps like internet radio, and maybe the added capacity to work as a DLNA client and/or play back some bluerays, and then the wii u can actually function as a media center device!
Interesting move by Nintendo if the prices are reasonable but I doubt this will move Wii Us, to me it seems that Nintendo don't really know what to do at the moment and are just throwing out ideas to see if anything bites.
Too bad there are only 3 DS games left that I want, but it'll be a good excuse to rebuy Brain Age.
Not impressive, at all. Maybe N64 and Game Cube games would be great, but DS? Way to go Nintendo, no wonder your profits are sagging and the Wii U is dead in the water, for now.
@mercurio2054 You have a Wii U but not a 3DS? You're doing it wrong.
@Marioman64 Your dream is to play outdated DS games on a dying platform that offers nothing for it's core gamers? Okay. Good luck with that.
Good idea but....you know....N64? GameCube? GBA?
I'm really losing patience, Nintendo.
I think it makes sense to do DS games with the gamepad, if the gamepad's screen is the touch screen and the TV is the top screen.. However, the VC they really need to work on is bringing Virtual Boy games to 3DS!
SNES and N64 games aren't playable on the Wii as you need the Classic Controller or the Gamecube controller. Wiimote alone won't play them, nor will the Nunchuck.
If gamecube games ever happen (And they'd better. GBA and DS? Gamecube should be on the cards before those IMO...) then a new controller styled after a gamecube one, complete with those analog triggers, could be released to play them with.
At last nintendo are getting the hint !! Ds games and gameboy advance games & in time 3DS games as well the complete nintendo range on wii u.
wow Ds games on wii u amazing
Great news more Nintendo systems on the Wiiu the better. I also like the quick boot mode idea.
This is neat and all but whatever happened to GBA on the Virtual Console?
@JoeyZXD
Sure they could, but that's on 3DS. This is Wii U.
Just give me GBA support on the 3DS >:1 or hey, you know, release them on the Wii U like you said you were going to?
Just give me GBA support on the 3DS >:1 or hey, you know, release them on the Wii U like you said you were going to?
@Zombie_Barioth
Releasing DS games on 3DS eshop would make perfect sense. Same with Wii games on the Wii U eshop. Some games are hard to find and expensive e.g. Xenoblade. Because it makes perfect sense, they probably won't do it-I've got used to that from Nintendo.
As you say, the other issue is pricing. The likes of Crash Bandicoot and Alundra from the PS1 are £3.99 on the Sony Store and I can play them on PS3 and Vita without any extra purchase. PSP games like Gran Turismo or Wipeout Pulse are £6.49 and playable on Vita. In comparison, Nintendo retro games are grossly overpriced especially as you have to buy for each machine.
@Samurai-Kinopio
sorry, i get trap with the consoles
i get the Game Boy, the GB Pocket, The GB Color and the advance and stop there... why? i just don't know...
last year i try to buy the 3ds... but... as you can see, i don't
Nintendo, don't mess up:
Virtual Console for 3DS (GB, GBC, GBA, Virtual Boy, DS)
Virtual Console for WiiU (NES, SNES, N64, GCN, Wii)
Is that so hard?
@electrolite77
I think if they fixed the lack of cross-compatibility the prices wouldn't be too bad, the main issue is their pricing tier is too hit or miss. As things stand many games are cheaper than their physical copies, but they're still overpriced for what they are compared with other games and services. I think Nintendo forgets that many of these games are as old, or older than a lot of their fans.
If people could have, say, Ocarina of Time on their Wii, 3DS, Wii U, and whatever comes next all for one relatively low price I'm sure they wouldn't mind Paying $10 for an N64 game too much. People might be more willing to double-dip on games they already have too.
YEAH. Nty.
Still not sold on the idea of getting a WiiU outside of graphic capabilities.
This is cool and unexpected. I'm going to play a few of the games I missed out on like Metroid Prime Hunters!
I'm not sure why you guys think Mario sunshine would not work on the wii-u.. i use dolphin and my 360 pad for it all the time, so i don't doubt the pro controller would work just fine...i can say this though If they did put GC up on the VC i would have no need for me emulator anymore and i will totally re buy games i used to own
Also considering they added the whole combined profile deal...Perhaps they will do what sony did and allow you to just download and play games you buy on either system...Nintendo Just needs to recode the SNES,NES games to work with either the wii-u controller ( pretty sure i've played breath of fire 2 on the game pad) or the pro controller...deep down i just really want sony And Nintendo to take there entire previous era (I very highly dislike the Lack of backwards compatibility But i know why they do it ) library and put it on there respective Eshops
Why ds games on wii u what about 3ds games like find mii 2 that would be awesome on wii u and not just downloadable but it could go on retail
I don't, um... hmm.
I see a lot of people complaining about how most Wii U owners have a DS(any kind) but I still think it's a great idea!
@Placlu Nintendo could definitely come up with a solution for that!
I feel Nintendo is going backwards with this idea shouldn't 3DS and 2ds be getting DS games and GBA, SNES and WiiU get N64,GC,Wii SNES games
if they want to improve sales , Nintendo needs to stop selling us promises (which they don't keep[on time]) and start selling real time/world products. No more Flipnote (nodelivery)3DS, SwapNOTe,/StopNOTe. and other half baked over reported under delivered items. Tells us about what you HAVE not what you are thinking about. I'm tired of buying promises.
This would be pretty sweet. Just imagine Phantom Hourglass on the Gamepad.
1 Year on and still no DS games apart from rubbish brain age.
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