Fire Emblem Fates Releases In North America On 19th February, Special Triple Edition Also Confirmed

Cooleo

I was really hoping for 2in1 for Europe.

Just need to know when the special version is coming out to decide if I am getting conquest first or not

CE is mine!!!

I can't believe they're pulling this ruthless ripoff on all regions. This is just off-puttingly greedy.

Yay!~

Oh, you have Bill Trinen on the American Nintendo Directs? I'm going to switch then.

In the European Direct they only said "discounted price" but according to this that "discounted price" is 50% in America so it will be the same in Europe. How much does the third story cost? I'll get the three of them anyway, as Fire Emblem Awakening is the best original 3DS game in my opinion.

Probably I'll get it digital because it's more convenient for a handheld and I can live without the art book.

Can't wait! I hope the 3-pack is reduced in Europe.

@Kaze_Memaryu
It's not a rip off per say.
Each version of the game has more content than all the previous Fire Emblem releases.
I can't remember which of the main version is the easier one...
Anyways IS and Nintendo were given a huge amount of hell over having an "easy" option in Awakening in the West.
This was their response as not to incur this again.
@Aqueous
Special Edition launches day and date with the main releases on Feb. 19th.

@Kaze_Memaryu Considering you are literally getting 3 different games, each with a unique story, completely different characters and completely different maps.... Id say its not off-putting at all...

Going from crying to fans to support the series so it can continue, to outright scamming them in a few years time. I don't see how anyone can justify the price of this game. There are other RPGs with multi-branching stories, paths, and emphasis on decision making that do not cost $80. Xenoblade Chronicles X costs $20 less than the essentially full version of FE:Fates, and has way better graphics, astronomically more content, and took much more money to produce.

This is an outright scam.

@greengecko007
If anything FE: Fates has more content including Revelations story branch. than XCX.

XCX has less content than the two main versions of Fates combined.

Best part of the Direct imo.

I'm preordering the Special Edition as soon as it appears on Amazon!

@VanillaLake I've got the Japanese version, the third route is the same price as the discounted second route.

Great. Now I'll have to buy all 3 versions. =P

I still find it disgustingly greedy of Nintendo to charge that much for the game. Cut a story into three parts and sell them off piecemeal. It's easy to claim a wealth of "content" when that content is different maps under the same mechanics. No different from what Atlus did with Devil Survivor 2 Record Breaker.

Only they didn't charge double for it. I still say Nintendo could have and SHOULD have released this at $50 for the FULL game.

@greengecko007 how old are you? They are completely different games...

@Browny
Each game has equal amounts of different content.
Revelations was developed after the release of the first two.
It too has almost as much content the other two.

If Nintendo bundled them into one game, then they would face a massive PR backlash by forcing gamers to buy content they don't want because it isn't aimed at them.
The easier game is viewed as "casual" in the West and is why it is a separate version.

It's not worth bundling them together for a full release, only to get bad press and hatred on social media from angry customers.

@Xenocity I've seen full playthroughs of the japanese "versions", and all it amounts to is that they took the fraction choice that several FE games had before, and made that a forced gimmick to demand twice the price.
Besides, it's meaningless how much "more" this game has. By that logic, Pokémon HG/SS should've cost 80$ each. They made this game in a single development cycle, and then arbitrarily impose a limitation on the entire content to extort more money for a game they just cut in half. And to add insult to injury, the third "path" cost another handful!
Say what you will, but this is ruse is just lousy.

Yay, I approve of all of this. I love that we're actually getting both versions, although I'll grab that Limited Edition as soon as I can.

@Kaze_Memaryu
Would you rather Nintendo forced that "casual" content on Western Gamers, making them buy content they clearly hate?

The Western press has been reporting on this "casual" content since the Japanese launch and complaining about it too.

@Xenocity I'm beginning to wonder in what world one has to live in to consider a wealth of content in a release "unwarranted". Considering Fire Emblem's fanbase in the West knows what they're getting into, always has, and the game's difficulty settings make up for the "casual-hardcore" divide.

It's a cash-grab. It being "not worth bundling" is the company looking to squeeze more out of the buyers. The content in question are maps that use the same game engine and a fraction of the effort to construct. The narrative was planned from the beginning as one game with separate paths. They chopped it up for the sake of money.

Hence: $50 for the full game. If Atlus can succeed with the so-called Atlus Tax, why can't Nintendo? I am totally on board with both @Kaze_Memaryu and @greengecko007

@greengecko007 I don't think you quite understand how Fates diverging paths work. Once you make your choice the story splits off from itself very early on it sets each path in motion and there's no point at which the stories converge.

This isn't Fable or Mass Effect where you do all the same things except you're either good or bad while doing it or a "split route" that ends up back on the same track regardless they've literally created three games worth(each path is longer than Sacred Stones) as separate campaigns in the same universe. I don't see how a developer could do this without either charging more for a game that contains them all(which they're doing) or selling the routes separately(which they're also doing).

@Kaze_Memaryu That "gimmick" is creating a whole extra game worth for each path. Even if you buy just one of them you get 42 chapters including 28 story chapters and 14 sidequests and additionally 3 My Castle Defense(although those aren't really unique so I don't count them). That's more than the average Fire Emblem game and on top of that they've redesigned all the classes which has never been done before in a sequel to a handheld game.

If that's a scam then every Fire Emblem game except Awakening has been a scam for offering less for the same or higher price(Radiant Dawn) as a single version of Fates.

@Browny
Because "hardcore" gamers don't want "casual" stuff imposed on them by any company.
Right now the Western media and Western gamers view the other 2/3rds as being made for "casuals" and soccer moms deluding down Fire Emblem further.
They are mad that Nintendo allowed IS to make this content instead of adding more "hardcore" content.

@Dr_Lugae Thanks, I'll get all three stories.

@Browny @Kaze_Memaryu @greengecko007 You three seem to be the only sensible ones here. Thank goodness. It's fun seeing others attempting to justify the price of this scam. Key word "attempting".

@Xenocity - Thank you, I'll go for the triple pack then if I can

@SuperWiiU HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
No...

@Xenocity Maybe I'm not understanding something, which is entirely possible because I can be out of it at times.

What EXACTLY is the "casual" content in Fire Emblem Fates? Birthright? The traditional Fire Emblem experience that they've used for the past 13 games?

Personally I think including all three stories into a single package the way it SHOULD have been done would have been the "hardcore" solution. Difficulty options exist for a reason; to allow EVERYONE to experience the same story regardless of their skill level.

@Browny Not everyone is going to pay $80 for a game and please dont say it could be $40. The last time a Fire Emblem game had a split route it was only for 6 chapters(as opposed to 22 chapters and 14 sidequests for each Fates route) and it was also the shortest Fire Emblem game in the series.

Grumble Mumble Grumble
Seriously though, I've lost hype. IS hyped it up, hear bad things, only game play it good. Then no real news for months.

For those complaining about the price. If you ever bought 2 Pokemon games that are pretty much the same except for a few Pokemon here and there then that's being a hypocrite.

I don't condone the price point. I don't see how one could be mad over having more content thrown in claiming it's too casual. But at the very least the routes given are different in each version of the game. Much more so than Pokemon which so many buy both copies to.

Getting 3 games for the same price is better than paying for the same game, no?

@Dr_Lugae I never said everyone was going to pay $80 for the game. And I never said it could be $40. I said it could be $50, taking a cue from Atlus by raising the price a smidgen to account for the wealth of content.

I've already stated my thoughts on this "split route" thing: considering the story was written first, they knew how much each side would have. Making different map layouts using the same gameplay engine and mechanics requires a fraction of the work compared to everything else. Do I applaud them for giving that much in the way of "chapters" per path? Yes. Do I agree with and support their pricing for it? Absolutely not.

Oops, and by same price I mean like buying ORAS at $80, over buying all 3 copies of FE:Fates with the bonus material for $80.

I'll get one version (most likely Conquest), and my brother will get the other and we'll change when we beat our version. It is a scam, but I like FE too much as to not play it. I will wait, though, to decide if I get the Revelations DLC.

@Browny Hey. Hey listen. Screw your opinion.

Lol. I don't see what you don't get. All of the games are full games. So maybe like as long as Awakening or longer. The game is longer than older games too. These are full games. It's like Pokemon but like getting a different region. Think about the games like that. I really enjoyed Awakening and if I have the money, I'll buy all 3. I don't get why people are complaining about the price. Is everyone 12 on here or something? I thought there were more adults on here. If you work, it shouldn't be that hard to pay for.

@Luna_110 It's not a money grab.

@melvin2898 Well gee, that was rude. No need to get vulgar.

You see them as full games. I see them as one game chopped into three. Which is probably closer to the truth considering the way it was developed. But that's subjective.

And clearly it isn't about whether one can afford it. It's about whether it's worth what they're asking for, as this will influence Nintendo's future pricing options when it comes to games like this (different versions).

I wonder if the NA release is censored...

@Browny @melvin2898
Melvin, I don't agree with you - I completely agree with Browny. It´s fine to disagree, you don't need to be aggresive.
For me, the most ridiculous about this is that the true ending - the "good" ending - is going to be DLC.

This is AWESOME!!!

Thank you Nintendo! Thank you IS! I love you I love you I love you!

Got THREE Limited Editions preordered, because why not. I love my Fire Emblem.

And to all the people complaining- don't buy it then! I'm not going to sit here and defend anything because it doesn't need to be defended. IS did EXACTLY what they should have. Release one game for hardcore fans and a separate, second game for Awakening fans.

Very generous of them to give the second game for half off. That's a steal! Don't mind if I do! I'll pop in a cartridge for each path and snag each opposite path for half off digitally to go on my "Fire Emblem machine"- my small model New 3DS with imported Fates cover plates.

@Luna_110
Suppose they should make a new rule- "only sell DLC with a horrible ending from now on".

@Browny
Fire Emblem Fates: Birthright is made to be newcomer friendly, thus the features and design reflects it.
This is why it is seen as being made for "casuals" by the West.
Thus gamers in the West are unhappy that it was made.
I don't agree with it, but that is how it is.

I will get the Special Edition version because I want all 3.

Thank you Nintendo. I asked for the SE and you delivered...will preorder as soon as they are up.

@JaxonH
Then they really should make DLC where the whole story is explained there? Where you face the real villain and cause behind the conflicts in Nohr and Hoshido? Revelations, if you've seen the spoilers, reveals all the info necessary for the story to make sense. Granted, maybe this will change in the localization - but for example, in the Nohr version they never tell you why you are invading Hoshido, or why Garon's the way he is. I'll keep thinking its a cash grab - but let's just agree to disagree, ok?

@Xenocity Whether or not it's newcomer friendly, the simple truth is it's as much a part of the package as Conquest. The irony being Birthright follows the traditional formula established in previous games (from what I've read, not experienced, I have not played the games in Japanese or looked into LP footage).

I still don't see it as a justified reason to divide the game into three parts to maximize profits. That part is disgusting; no two ways about it.

Alas, they have, and only time will tell if this game's success (or failure) influence how the company treats stories with multiple paths in the future. That is my primary concern.

@JaxonH If you sell the answers to your narrative apart, that's a cash-grab. And considering the third path shows the truth behind everything (according to what people have said, I am not a source), it applies.

@Luna_110
That's what story DLC is supposed to do. Dive further in. Nomatter how much explaining they do in the games, the DLC has to expound on it.

And everything is a cash grab. Every game you buy. In fact, every product period. The aim is to "grab cash" and profit. And grab my cash they certainly shall. I reward devs who bring good games to the table for me to play.

No mandatory online, no microtransactions, full games's worth of content on each cartridge and all DLC is appropriately priced. Ya, this is the sort of thing I like to see. As opposed to the onslaught of AAA nowadays that seems to not only make a bad game, they check every box listed above as well.

But sure, agree to disagree.

@Browny

You classify them as "answers". I classify as "additional information expounded on the main story".

You say "divide game". I say make 2 and 1/2 separate games with an overarching and intertwined story.

I'm hyped for this. I can (kind of) see why some people are upset, but the prospect of finally beating one FE game only to have two more just sitting there waiting to be played is really exciting for me.

@JaxonH Like I said to someone else earlier, it's all subjective.

But thank you for not getting vulgar about it.

Well, I guess I know what to get on the 19th of Feb. Awesome.

So happy that NoA is releasing the special edition - definitely the option I'm buying (as long as stock issues aren't an issue).

Is the full game "worth" that much? Probably not. I agree that Xenoblade look like a better value if you are trying to measure such things. But NoA are releasing a game I want, in a format that I hoped for but didn't really expect to see. My budget allows it, so that's good enough for me!

I don't quite get why people are complaining so much. If you don't want to buy the individual releases, then the special edition is the most cost-effective option for you. Game development nowadays costs a lot more, and our expectations are a lot higher of retail releases. Publishers cannot drive up the base price of video games, so they release DLC, special editions etc. so that they can subsidise the high costs of development and turn a healthy profit.

It sucks, but the industry is not prepared to increase the SRP of games at the risk of further losing customers.

My only hope now is that the third path is included on the cart of the special edition and is not offered as a download, otherwise I WILL be pissed. I would like to be able to use all three cartridges (using the special edition cart for "Revelation").

so NA has the date confirmed and be in February, except for Europe to have a release date...this feels familiar...oh yeah it happened with Awakening, let me guess, Fire Emblem Fates will come to Europe in April or May but will be announced the release date in next Direct for Europe probably around March, sounds likely.
Even though Disney Magical World took 6 months to be released in Europe after being released in NA, so DMW is a worse case.
Even though I would prefer a single release, but at least is fair that both regions will have 2 versions and a DLC, just not at the release date announcements.
I have intentions to buy the special edition (to have all 3 and even comes with an artbook), since Europe will come later anyway, at least will give me enough months for me to save money to buy it.

@sillygostly

People have been complaining about this from day one. Just can't wrap their heads around the fact they developed 2 games with an intertwined storyline (just like they did with Path of Radiance and Radiant Dawn, just like they did with Shadow Dragon and Heroes of Light and Shadow, just like they did with FE6 and FE7).

Only difference is this time it's a simultaneous release. But not without reason- there is a split fanbase, with each game targeting one half of the demographic.

Hype train is leaving the station- it's time to either get on or get out! Enough with the complaints already. This is what it is. Accept it or move along... but this is what it is. That's how I feel anyways.

@sillygostly - Yeah I really hope Revelation has it's own boxed cartridge, but if not at least put it on the same cart as one/both the other games please Nintendo.

I will make good on my word to get the special edition with all 3 paths, since they did have the sense to release a physical copy with all of them on one card. However, I will still try to find out exactly how much data all 3 paths take up, and I will still use the game files to emulate IF the third path relies on a download, because I cannot connect to the eShop anymore with my 3DS at version 9.0. With this, it is confirmed that an 8GB card can hold all 3 paths.

I will not buy any of the micro transactions out of principle, and I still do not like Nintendo's decision to price gouge the more expansive cards. Nintendo probably has some stake in the card productions, just like they did with their legacy systems' cartridge production, so I cannot imagine that higher data cards cost enough more to justify the price increase.

The arguments about more content = higher price are nonsense. Games have never had a price jump over the years due to increased content; it has always been because of physical data and production limitations which drive up prices. Otherwise, each successive generation would have had higher prices across the board. Imagine if Super Mario 3D World cost $80, just because it has more content than New Super Mario Bros Wii. It's rediculous.

Nintendo has a precedent for denying the validity of this claim that more content = higher price, too: The Legend of Zelda cost $50 back in the day, even though the original NES games also costed $50 at release, just a couple/few years earlier, with exponentially less content. That is just one of many examples. It is brainwashing to perfectly accept the idea that more content automatically = higher price tag.

@JaxonH - Well said.

...Nothing will change it now, so hopefully people can just enjoy playing or boycotting the games as they see fit, and stop being buzzkills for those of us who are really hyped.

@Xenocity Somehow I doubt that an SRPG has more content than a huge open world JRPG, and I say this as someone who has absolutely no interest in XCX. They've already shown gameplay clips of XCX with well over a hundred hours of play on the file and that there are hundreds of quest lines. Compare that to the few dozen chapters in each Fire Emblem version...

@Atlantidas I never implied they were games of similar genre. That has nothing to do with the fact that Xenoblade Chronicles is a bigger and more expensive game to produce. In terms of pricing, Fire Emblem fates has no reason to cost $80 for the full experience, other than simply to make more money off the fans that actually buy it.

I'll be getting the triple pack. Just hope they have enough.

@Dr_Lugae It seems very much that the story regardless of the version is the same, just told from different perspectives of the two clans, with different battles and maps. That's no different than what other games have done before, all in one package, like Sonic Adventure 2 for example. Even Fire Emblem Fates was reported to only diverge after chapter 7, which is 25% of the way through the main story.

These games are not completely different. They are two parts of the same tale, being split for no other reason than raking in money. The cost that went into making different maps and battle sequences was minimal compared to much larger games that cost less than the complete FE:Fates package.

@Luna_110 I must agree. (Though that's a spoiler, so be careful.) It is micro transaction abuse to cordon off the true story and ending of the game behind a paywall, since Hoshido and Nohr never actually happen as far as the story's concerned. Forcing it to be downloaded behind the eShop, which now requires a system update to 10.0 to access, is also an insidious instance of DRM. That's two major strikes against Nintendo's handling of FE: Fates, from a DRM-free gamer's perspective. The third strike is in their unfair pricing. I shudder to think of Europeans paying £/€80 or more for the collector's edition... That is highway robbery. If this were a game of baseball, Nintendo would be OUT!

@Soren It's obvious that Nintendo has figured out that although Fire Emblem isn't completely main stream, it has a dedicated hardcore fanbase. As such, they are willing to test this scam on these fans to try and make huge profit. If there are Fire Emblem fans that truly think $80 is fair for a 3DS game that is no more complex than other similar games in the past that were priced like normal, than I guess that's there prerogative. I'm curious as to how long they will be willing to continue paying $80 for 3DS games though, because if FE:Fates is successful it's only more likely this trend will continue.

I'll do anything to get the special edition, my life will be unfulfilled if I don't get it!

@greengecko007 I don't think it's fair to charge $80 just because FE: Fates likely maxes out the 3DS capabilities of a 4GB card, perhaps necessitating an 8GB card, but it may be the only way for me to access all 3 paths without pirating. I am not updating my firmware to 10.0 out of principle, so I won't be able to download the 3rd path. It's either pay a robber baron or join another one for me.

The 3 way pricing annoys me, but I always thought they should just sell 1 cartridge for maybe $60 and be done with it. All routes PLUS an art book for $80?. I'm sold. Annoyed. But sold.

Special edition for me. Damn, I guess this will be the first game I'll actually preorder. Can't wait!

@JaxonH Those are all sequels/prequels, this is just one big game with multiple paths.

@PlywoodStick
No it's not. It's 1 storyline- yes, but it's not 1 game. t's 2 games interconnected. Released simultaneously to target the fractured fanbase of Awakening fans and pre-existing fans.

What actual, real evidence is there that it's "one game split"? None that I can see. Just unwarranted accusations based around the single premise of an over arching storyline.

What evidence is there? Is it the fact each game has half as much content as Awakening? That would be tough to argue with. But, wait a second. Each game is... well... a full game. Just as big as Awakening.... So... What's the problem?

Here's the scenario- Fire Emblem is on the brink of discontinuation. Awakening saves the series, but creates a new generation of fans at odds with preferences of the original fanbase.

What do you do?

Create a separate game for each faction. Give each side what they want. Ok, so if you're going to do that, which side get the next game first? Either way one side will be left disappointed. Solution- release both games simultaneously. And since they're a simultaneous release, what sense would it make to have two totally unrelated games? Wouldn't it make more sense to tie them together.

Here's a great idea- offer two viewpoints of the same master story, and let each side target one of the factions of the fanbase! That's a fantastic idea. So good in fact, that's exactly what they did.

It's not only acceptable, it's a fantastic idea too! IS should be commended here for thinking out of the box and finding a suitable solution to the predicament they were facing. Now everyone is happy. No matter what kind of fan you are, you get a game that fits your preferred playstyle.

I think people are being really stubborn on this, respectfully

@greengecko007

It's simple. It's not one game just because greengecko says it is. Neither is it a scam just because greengecko says it is.

If paying $40 for Awakening (a TRULY great game) is a deal (which is is) then it logically follows that paying $40 for FE Fates Birthright (a game equal in size, greater in scope, and even better in story) is an equally good deal (which it is).

And if both of those are worth paying $40, it logically follows that FE Fates Conquest (a game equal in size, scope and story) is ALSO equally as good a deal.

It can't be worth it for one and not the other, when they're comparable on all accounts.

So uh... Pay $40 for Awakening? Thumbs up. Awesome deal. Pay $40 for BETTER game equal in size? Total scam.

Right.

@JaxonH When you put it that way, it makes sense. It is still going to be confusing for many people, though. It's the type of deal that's practically made for hardcore fans only.

@JaxonH Great point! Thankfuly I'm an old fan but I love Awakening too so it's win-win to me. And the Special Edition...dear god.

@JaxonH Normally I would have dropped out of this pointless back and forth by now, but then I must ask:

If you believe that they are separate games that merit separate releases, why then is Revelations-- the game's TRUE canonical ending-- the only one without a separate, standalone release? Why deny those of us who only want the TRUE story the ability to buy only that version?

Going to buy this special edition, because I'd rather pay more for my games up-front than have them polluted by DLC to make up the difference. I'm delighted that a producer's finally giving us the choice.

Games can't continue to grow exponentially in technical complexity and depth while prices stay flat-to-decreasing (accounting for inflation over time). Squeeze a jelly donut too hard, and things're gonna get messy.

@JaxonH

I do certainly commend IS for the idea, but is it truly that in execution. Many of the very aspects that caused such a major rift in Awakening are back in Conquest, and aspects disliked by some such as fanservice are predominantly displayed in the Nohrian character designs.

@Fath Prices don't go up because the general populace has a perceived value of video games in mind. That being the standard price of games ($40-60 currently).

If each game were priced differently from the start to reflect the money and effort put into it, we probably wouldn't have this problem today. But because the public has been taught that games are "worth" $40-60 and anything that deviates from that is either "value priced" or "overpriced", people will resist the change to game prices. They already achieved a $10 general price increase when the 8th Generation landed (from an American's POV). I'd say that was a huge win.

Companies can try to up the prices to reflect the cost, but because games aren't a necessity people can reject that price increase easier than if it were imposed on something more important; say food, clothing or housing.

@Browny

You're looking too deep into this.

First of all, you have two games with two sides. Each side needs a separate ending to make sense. Right?

Ok then. So which one is "right"? It has to be one or the other. It can't be both. The only solution is to have ONE, a third option that overrides the other two.

Whether or not it's released physically is irrelevant. It's simple. They wanted DLC, so this is what they came up with. "Canonical" is just a word. Buy the game you want and enjoy the ending for THAT GAME. If you insist on experiencing a DLC ending, don't complain about paying the price for the DLC... right? "Canonical", whatever. It's just a third ending, nothing more. And does serve a purpose to have a singular resolution for canon's sake

@JaxonH I don't think I'm looking too deep into this.

If siding with neither Hoshido or Nohr is an option, which it is because it's a relevant third path with a full set of chapters (or so I've been led to believe), it's as valid an option as Hoshido OR Nohr and deserves its own standalone release. So my question remains: why can I not have Revelations as a standalone game if it acts that way? Why must I suffer paying for a story path I do NOT want first?

@Browny
They decide what is DLC. It's their call. That's why.

Also, I think you were led to believe wrongly. Revelation is not a full game, not comparable to either of the other sides. I don't know exactly how big, but more "DLC sized" not "full game sized".

Simply put, it's DLC. It's no different than if you wanted to play any other game's DLC but not the game. Some devs release standalone, some don't. But that's just what it is. Gotta buy the game if you want the DLC.

I have no idea why a Fire Emblem fan would not want to play either of these extremely well reviewed games, but in any case, I've seen awesome DLC for games before and I either A) bought the game to access the DLC or B) deemed it not worth buying a game I don't want just to buy DLC.

Price for the full version's LE is nowhere near as bad as I thought it'd be.
It's crossing into home console LE territory, but it's very funny when the LE of a game is $20 cheaper than buying it normally.
So looks like I'll have to abandon my plan of waiting til a price drop to $50 or below and just get this. Especially for that really nice looking pouch! Will look great along with my FE Fates faceplate.

@JaxonH You misunderstand my intention.

It's not that I don't want to play them. It's that I was always against paying a price I thought exorbitant for what is one story with multiple paths. I don't see them as two (and a half) games, I see them as one grand story that could have been done in one package. Like Tactics Ogre did way back when. Differing paths is a means to keep me invested for multiple playthroughs, and the fact that Nintendo chose to profit from that is what rubbed me the wrong way.

Again: subjective. What I call 1 for the price of 3, you call 3 for the price of 1. Clearly no side is right. I'm just sharing my POV on this matter after experiencing various games with varying degrees of difference in their story deviations. And in my case, I don't think even with the full set of chapters from all three paths that Fates could top what Tactics Ogre offered at a much lower price point.

That clarify things a bit?

I'm picking up the special edition if I can find it.

My son also pointed out that in the direct, you could see the Amiibo symbol on the box art.

I have never understood why gamers are so emotional and so easily offended. If you don't like what Nintendo is doing, don't buy it. It's just that simple. However, just because you think it's a scam, doesn't mean other people do. If you are a big fan of any series, you are willing to pay to play. It's a choice, people! If you don't like the content and price, save your hard earned money for something else. My first FE game was Awakening and I really enjoyed it. I have a stable life so I can afford to buy my own games. $80 for 3 games is fine for me. I personally look forward to the release date!

@Browny
I do get where you're coming from.

My thing is, I learned a long time ago not to judge a game based on what some other game did. Or say, Game B has this, therefore any game that doesn't match that is a rip off.

If I thought like that, I'd be screaming for $10 Mario Maker and $5 Splatoon. Because "Xenoblade X gives way more content".

Different games have different goals, and while it's great if you get a game that gives you like 3x as much content as normal, I don't think that serves as reason to pronounce any other game that doesn't as a money grab.

Otherwise we'll start seeing content quotas and all kinds of crazy nonsense.

I say count your blessings. We're getting more Fire Emblem games on 3DS. Before they announced Fates I was spazzing out with how bad I wanted another. I'm getting another. And not just one, but two. For that I am greatful. I see no reason to be upset.

Wow people are still arguing about this... I suppose we're all free to complain but...
If you think the game isn't worth the price they're asking for then just don't buy it (that'll show 'em!). The producer can price it at whatever they want and if a good number of people are buying it at the price they demand, then that means that the consumer at least or at most valued the game at that price (a good sign that they made a good decision ).
I'm going to get all three for sure even though yes they probably did save cost if you're comparing two completely different games of different worlds etc. but REAL dev time was spent to make these two versions happen and probably a lot of work into crafting a story as complex as this game sounds (at least I hope it's complex). That time and effort is not just a $10 difference to me (as a dev myself). Also of course I have been a fan of Fire Emblem for years and would love to see them continue to succeed and make more games.

@JaxonH
I understand the need to avoid comparing games, but sadly it's inevitable (at least in my case). Whether a result of having bought and played hundreds of games in my lifetime, I find myself comparing them if they are similar enough to be compared to. Fates to Tactics Ogre was a big one for me because they both share a genre and concept (story branches).

In a better world, my problem would be solved by waiting it out. They could charge $80 now, but give it time and it'll drop. Sadly, this is Nintendo, and they are bastards when it comes to dropping their game prices. Add to that the fact that the Complete Edition isn't something they'd want on shelves any longer than launch window to maximize their profits. And as such, its price will increase as time goes on.

So yes, it sucks that this is the only way to experience it. I do think it's important to voice your discontent with something like the price even if you intend to buy it, so that the company doesn't become complacent and think they can pull this crap with every release. As it were, I already have my Complete Edition reserved via Amazon. Grudgingly, but it's there.

@Browny
So ironic.

I WANT to see more of this sort of thing. It's so refreshing to see a developer think outside the box for once and do something different. So rare nowadays.

I look at games like Star Wars Battlefront- no campaign, mandatory online (even if playing solo), $50 season pass and $70 "Deluxe Edition" that only comes with like 2 extra skins and a 3 weapons. And I think wow, $120 for a game I can't play offline, has no single player campaign AND, even after 120 bones, has unlimited microtransactions.

Then I look at games like this where, for 2/3 that price I have 2-3 games to play as opposed to one, no online restrictions, no microtransactions, etc.

In an industry where the former is all but common now, games like this are some of the last beacons of value there are.

I mean, I'm ok with stuff like buying Fallout 4 for $60 and season pass for $30- so $90 for the full package. But even that seems skimpy when compared with the triple package here.

Idk. It is what it is.

@JaxonH
Don't get me wrong, I'm probably the most anti-AAA release person here. But that's mostly because I've abandoned major console gaming in favor of my 3DS. Simply because my genre of preference (RPG) is at home here. That said, I'm against any game that demands a constant online connection (barring MMOs).

As for me, I prefer saving money, so I don't mind waiting games out. Some I'll buy up front regardless to support the developer, like Atlus. But if I can get away with it, I'd rather wait for a sale. Gaming isn't my only pasttime, so I can't drop insane cash on each and every release. So again, where for you Fates is actually a steal, for me it's highway robbery given the low prices of Atlus games, my other main fix.

No hard feelings; I like to rattle cages sometimes.

I'm going to get that special edition if I can. I've never gotten a special edition before, but Fire Emblem is one of my favourite series, and I really want a physical version of all three, or at least physical of the first two, I don't know if the third will be physical in that release.

@JaxonH I was going to guess you ordered 3 of the special editions. No point not to for the price. Some day when Nintendo releases a way for me to play 3DS games on my TV - I'm looking at you Gameboy Player - you're going to have to tell me which one is the easier version. I'm guessing white, but don't want to guess wrong.

I won't bother asking you what you thought of the ND, I liked it, it was good, and I know you weren't buying into any Mine craft hype. I haven't bothered checking over your leak list, the ND was as expected with a couple of nice surprises so close enough.

Already ordered my Special Edition. All 3 on one cartridge is worth $87 (what it came up to with tax) for me. From all the content we have seen so far its worth the price for me at least. FE is by far my favorite series so I doubt I'll be dissatisfied.

@rjejr
Truthfully, I did actually think Minecraft Wii U was going to be announced. In fact I hadn't realized it WASN'T announced until just now when you said something. Too excited over FE Fates lol.

That is strange. I wonder if it's really coming? Guess we'll find out sooner or later. Pikmin 4's a sense is also curious. Wonder if it's an NX launch title...

I thought the Direct was good. Two new Dragon Quest games announced and Twilight Princess HD. And the Star Fox footage got me super hyped! Even Animal Crossing Amiibo Festival looked a little better after showing the mini games unlocked with the cards. Oh, and amiibo and Collector Editions up the yin yang.

But mostly I'm riding the Fire Emblem high. It's coming much sooner than expected! You need to buy a 3DS for this game Rog, you really do. And yes, the white one- Birthright, is the easier path. That's the one you want .

@Browny Exactly, and with consumers so resistant to price changes, publishers have had to resort to underhanded tactics like DLC to recoup the difference, which not only gets the consumers to pay more, but taints the gameplay experience as well.

... Is the story I'd like to tell, though I concede it muddles cause and effect quite a bit. It's more fair to say that games are the best they can be within the constraints of pursuing every pricing structure available. Even in that scenario, though, I'm content with the chance to buy the expensive full package instead of the piecemeal one, as at worst, my money's still going to a dev and/or publisher that I respect and am ok with supporting.

Final Fantasy Tactics sold for $50 in 1998 (I think) is $73 today.

Sometimes I think part of the reason quality in games or length or depth has gone down is that... cost to make a game rises, but cost to sell a game hasn't gone up with inflation all that much.

Popular games can offset that by selling lots of games. But there is a reason niche genres feel like they have stayed behind.

Heck I would pay $100 for an HD Fire Emblem on the WiiU.

Especially if it came with a nice manual....

@bloodycelt Heck yeah, more games these days need nice manuals.

Hope the special edition is coming to Europe too.

@JaxonH : I'm actually really chuffed about the dual release. I'll need all the save files I can get and I know that 1 save file per path will just not do considering how incompetent I can be. I'd describe myself as a beginner as I've only played Fire Emblem: Awakening, and I enjoyed it so much (200+ hours), I had sought Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn as well, which was okay, but I wish that it had the polish and (dare I say it) accessibility of Awakening. I'm just no good at these sorts of games, but Awakening made it really, really enjoyable and fair difficulty-wise without being overly frustrating or insultingly easy.

I'm just happy that we're getting a new Fire Emblem game so soon let alone what is essentially three!

I was more frugal during the Wii and DS era, because Wii games were in standard definition and often lacked basic functionality that was included on rival platforms, and I didn't think that they were worth paying all that much for. I've been feeling far more generous these days because the standard has been raised so high and I feel as if I'm really getting my money's worth this generation. The maximum I've paid for any Wii game last generation was AU$60. This generation, the most I've paid for a standalone game is AU$80 (excluding the Smash + GameCube adapter box which cost me AU$89).

Getting the special edition once Nintendo get their heads out of their butts and open up EU pre-orders. If this is another case of Awakening-syndrome (NA feb, EU april), I will make personally sure that someone at Nintendo AND Intelligent Systems SOMETIME in the future will have a VERY. HORRIBLE. DAY. (Not in the American school shooting way, I'm not insane.)

Also, all the people crying about scamming and cash grabs... Honestly, just look at yourselves. You're being completely ridiculous and greedy. It doesn't matter when and where and in which universe these games were designed. They've got the content of three separate games, and as such should cost the same as three separate games. But no, we're getting them CHEAPER. Oh, the horror! Someone, bring me my white knight armor so I can revel in this crimson shower of repulsion!

Fire Emblem Fates consists of three games which take place during the same timeline. The reason they all go under the name Fates is to make it easier to comprehend that these storylines intertwine and are related, yet not Pokémon-esque similar.

It is funny how they could have released Birthright/Conquest first, then the other version a year later (after announcing it or smth), and then Revelation a year after that or something like that, and people wouldn't even have been angry about it. (You can say what you want, but the majority of people are just angry because they THINK it is one game split into three, which it is not, and never will be, regardless of anyone's personal opinion.)

@JaxonH Don't be mate, you get 9 savefiles in Fates. You should have plenty of saves (I think you also get 3 casual mode savefiles ontop of that, but don't take my word for it)

@greengecko007 That just simply isn't true. The Light and Dark stories of Sonic Adventure 2 aren't each as long as Sonic Adventure 1 in its entirity are they? No, they're both much shorter(and the characters/gameplay in each are pretty much the same thing). That's why games where you "choose your own path?" like Fable or Dragon Age Origins are only one track and don't really let you stray from the intended path because they'd have to design two or more games otherwise.

Games with splits like that usually always are shorter. We've seen this with Fire Emblem itself. Fire Emblem Sacred Stones is 20 chapters long with a split path between chapters 9 and 15. Fire Emblem Fates is 28 chapters long with the split lasting between chapters 7 and 28 (along with 8 unique sidequests and 6 shared sidequests).

What this means is the developers had to create 2-3 games worth of maps, sidequests and even weapons in order to achieve the kind of game they wanted. You're just looking at games that have a split and saying they're the same, but if each campaign of Fire Emblem Fates even excluding the first 6 chapters is longer than Fire Emblem Sacred Stone's campaign(hell Birthright or Conquest alone are some of the longest entries in the series when you include the sidequests) or I think it's pretty silly in this case to say the entirity of Fire Emblem Fates has to be the same price as Sacred Stones.

I want to be annoyed at this, but I loved Awakening so much, I'm kind of not. From the Japanese reports they are clearly NOT two completely unique games. It's more like... the old Command and Conquer games. You could play through as GDI or NOD, and you'd get different units, different story scenes, but it was the same story and the same maps for both sides. It's the sort of thing they'd definitely have had in one regular priced cart 10 years ago.

@greengecko007 As far as I know the 2 "starting" versions are completely different, they are not like Pokemon Blue/Red which is basically the same thing but with some exclusive Pokemon in each version...Birthright and Conquest follow separate stories, characters, battles and everything and Revelations is the big outcome. It may feel expensive, but $70 for 3 3DS games isn't that scamming.

Check this link out: http://www.gameskinny.com/gpuya/fire-emblem-fates-the-differences-between-birthright-and-conquest it explains the differences between the 2 games (Birthright and Conquest) (remember they have already been released in Japan)

I don't see any need to whinge about pricing here, i don't think they'll be skimping on content. FE:A is the best game i've played in years so i'll pay whatever for everything i can get in the series next installment.

Europe is also getting the special edition.

@bloodycelt FFT for $50 ain't so bad really, but i see your analogy. In 1994 my family bought NBA Jam for $140 Aus. Street Fighter 2 was $140. In the 80's NES games were between $80-$100 each. Now in 2015 i haven't paid more than $70 for any Nintendo game. I feel like the prices are getting better. Btw- NBA Jam was worth every cent and more!

Hope to be able to get the collector edition in Europe as well...

@NibelsnarfNoob Hate to bother you mate but where did you pre-order your copy??

@Browny The casual content is stuff based on Awakening. In FE Conquest, you have to make due with what you got or die trying, like classic FE. In Birthright, you can grind it out and come back to that hard part later, which is what Awakening did when allowed.

"Games will have separate releases in Europe as well"

Bummer!

Triple for sure.

There's not a big enough audience for Fire Emblem over here to warrant this expensive of a release. And no, Awakening did not sell that well.

@Browny "You misunderstand my intention. It's not that I don't want to play them. It's that I was always against paying a price I thought exorbitant for what is one story with multiple paths. I don't see them as two (and a half) games, I see them as one grand story that could have been done in one package. Like Tactics Ogre did way back when. Differing paths is a means to keep me invested for multiple playthroughs, and the fact that Nintendo chose to profit from that is what rubbed me the wrong way.
Again: subjective. What I call 1 for the price of 3, you call 3 for the price of 1. Clearly no side is right. I'm just sharing my POV on this matter after experiencing various games with varying degrees of difference in their story deviations. And in my case, I don't think even with the full set of chapters from all three paths that Fates could top what Tactics Ogre offered at a much lower price point.
That clarify things a bit?"

You are right about no side is right. You have your opinion and other people will try to defend the publisher's point of view (Nintendo's point of view), but that doesn't mean that you are wrong. You are probably closer to the truth than them, but because now it's a fact that it's going to be released as separate purchases, they mix reality with fairness.

The reality is that normally when you have separate chapters or paths you don't pay full price for each of them, good example is Resident Evil Revelations 2, separate cheap chapters and a standalone release for a normal price. Fire Emblem has two huge paths/sides=chapters and an extra path. The total price is €60 for the two main paths if $=€ like usually, and then the third path for €20 more, so €80 for the full game! Okay, it's a huge game (no small paths/chapters), we ALL know that. But even if it's huge, it's too expensive, specially for a handheld game, and the digital version is not any cheaper and doesn't include the artbook.

Nobody can say that I'm against the game, I think Fire Emblem Awakening is the best original 3DS game, and most probably I'll get the digital version of the three paths, because for me it's more handy to have digital games on my 3DS. But I have to be honest and say that Nintendo is being extremely greedy, once again, and punishing supporters of a rather weak franchise, making its loyal fans to pay an extra toll for this franchise to survive. It was almost dead before Awakening, Awakening was a good seller but not a massive hit, and then they want those supporters to pay double the normal price of a 3DS release. It's quite unfair.

@Blizzia
"but the majority of people are just angry because they THINK it is one game split into three, which it is not, and never will be, regardless of anyone's personal opinion"

Pretty much sums it up. Like I say, don't like it? Don't buy it!

But I know what I'm playing come Feb 19th, what about you I'm so happy right now: it's SO CLOSE I can taste it!

I may have to take like a week's worth of vacation and lock myself in my room for this one
.

And they're already sold out, everywhere. I'm amazed at how the excitement can get sucked right out of something like this.

As long as each game has the same quality story as Awakening and is a similar length to that game, then I don't mind them doing multiple releases.

The main potential problem I can think of is if the endings in Birthright and Conquest weren't as good in order to save the best ending for the 3rd version. There's no way for me to know yet if they did this, or if each game gets a super great ending.

If it appears that the first two games are just as good or better than Awakening, then I may get the easier version. I don't love Fire Emblem enough to get more than one version of Fates.

Can't find the special edition ANYWHERE. *sigh *

EDIT: Gamestop is taking preorders in-store. 25 bucks down. GOT MINE!

@MuchoMochi US Amazon. Not sure if other Amazon's have it up.

Edit: I was going to add the link, but I just saw Amazon is already stopped taking pre-orders. Didn't think they'd go that fast.

When it says "Special version that includes all games" is it all 3 separate physical, all on 1 gamecard, 1 physical rest download, all download or some sort of mix with these? o _o

Edit: just checked the listing and it's all 3 on 1 gamecard incase anyone was wondering

I knew the comments on this story would devolve into arguing about whether or not Nintendo is greedy for selling this game in parts.

I think it comes down to this; if you are really put off by having to pay $40 each for the two sides of the game then you can either buy and play only one of them, or simply wait until you can get them both for a price that you are willing to pay (used or on sale or whatever). Or, if it bothers you enough then don't buy it at all. There are lots of other great games coming to 3DS next year.

Personally, there are lots of games that I feel are not worth the asking price at launch. For example, I will not be paying the Atlus tax for Stella Glow. If you are patient, all games will eventually be put on sale somewhere. I just wait until I see the games that I want at the price I am willing to pay. Within six months I will be able to get a new copy of Stella Glow for $40.

What I am not going to do is get all insulted that they asked too much in the first place. If the market will bear the price that they initially sold it for, then good for them.

I just went to my local gamestop and preordered the special edition make sure you call stores near you to see if you can do the same!

@RatKing64 The problem for me is that I would like to get them all physically... Only the special edition will allow that, and it's already almost all sold out everywhere. With no guarantee I can get it, I might not be able to go through the entire game, since I won't be able to access the eShop.

@PlywoodStick

Yeah, I suppose that if you want the special edition then waiting is not a tactic that will work. Those packages only go up in price. Hopefully you can find it at a brick and mortar store. Also, if they sold out that fast then Nintendo will create more. They have more than three months before the game ships to replenish stock.

@PlywoodStick (⊙ᗜ⊙) How exactly is the special edition sold out everywhere in preorders? Its been freaking one day since this article was posted and surely retailers don't have an actual offical listing for the special edition on their preorder game rosters till at least the end of December.

Got a pre-order in from Gamestop for the SE! I enjoyed Awakening, but sadly must admit to being bogged down with all the great 3DS releases of 2013 I never beat it I hope that will change with Fates!! (But two DQ games in one year.....????? Oh Goddess help) The SE will most definitely become a crown jewel of my 3DS collection no matter what.

@Sakura_Moonlight2421 Online, absolutely sold out. Retail, it's a gamble which places will actually have copies (or enough to fulfill all preorders) since this is likely going to have such a limited print run. Luckily, there are a few places with not as much foot traffic around me, so I'll most likely be banking on them. Many other people may not even have a chance of being so lucky.

@VanillaLake Until the end of time I will continue to chant how Nintendo got greedy with this entry in the franchise.

However, the simple fact of the matter is because of Revelations being exclusive to the eShop, it will be virtually impossible save for perhaps ONE, MAYBE TWO sales in the lifetime of the eShop to get all three story paths at what could honestly be considered a true discount (say, $20 for the first, $10 and $10 for the other two). And even then the total would STILL be $40, the price of a typical new release. Nintendo wins.

So yes, I did get the special edition the second the option went up on Amazon. Because I know that there is no way in Hell Nintendo will leave such a version on store shelves for long. It would completely undermine their hopes of extorting all other buyers. And the odds of finding a used copy are slim at best.

As long as they never pull this crap again, all is well. They want to double dip the Fire Emblem fandom, they're free to. None of Nintendo's first-party offerings rank among favorites for me, so my soapboxing is really just for my own amusement. And if they were to ever try something like this again, I'll just 100% boycott their product and make sure others know why.

@Browny
It isn't only the chapters overall Fates has more changes than you could ever expect for a Fire Emblem sequel, before it was revealed I assumed the next Fire Emblem game would have just recycled all the models(except main character classes), animations and classes from Awakening but for the first time in the series they didn't. They also added the highest number of new classes between any two entries in the series.

They likely benefited inidividually from the extra budget allowed as this means more content can be developed in total and shared between both games. e.g. The classes developed specificaly for Birthright/Hoshido can also be used by Conquest/Nohr and old classes were redesigned and could be used by both games. Something they seemingly never justified doing before.

You just have to look at Blazing Sword(Fire Emblem 7 or Fire Emblem GBA), Sacred Stones or New Mystery to see that when they sell a sequel to a handheld Fire Emblem for full price they never even have half the changes or new assets(most of it is recycled completely with Sacred Stones having the same sprites and animations as Binding Blade and Blazing sword) that Fates has over Awakening.. I don't think its overcharging for them to be asking what they are for all three campaigns of Fates.

You're arguably getting a better deal than normal just by buying Conquest or just Birthright at regular price than for example buying New Mystery after Shadow Dragon or Sacred Stones after Blazing Sword. Pretty funilly Conquest or Birthright alone would justify $50 pricetag as standalone games when you compare them to previous Fire Emblem games on handheld. When you compare them sold as new you truly think Conquest or Birthright by themselves are worth only $20(and $10 I guess for revelations) when Sacred Stones was $30?

@Dr_Lugae
Earlier in the comments I made a post about perceived value to the general consumer. I am a general consumer, like you. Individually we could argue whether a game merits the additional cost for the amount of content they provide. However, as a whole the general consumer's perceived value of a handheld game at this time is $30-50 (US). Anything more than that will be perceived as "overpriced". It sucks, but it's true.

That in mind, while I can applaud the company for not reusing assets as a way of providing new content, they can't expect the general consumer to willingly pay more for this effort. Companies recycle assets to save time and money so they can maximize profits from the established trend, in this case your typical price point of $40 for a handheld game. Replacing assets I would imagine only happens when necessity demands it, such as a switch in platform.

I think the idea that just because Fates went the extra mile and didn't abuse existing assets from Awakening (I won't argue if this is true or not, for the sake of debate I'll assume it is) doesn't mean it justifies an increased price point. Your typical consumer will obtain this knowledge, go "Oh...", and then put the game back on the shelf and wait for a sale. It sucks, but it's true.

As for your final comment, my mention of those particular prices were in regards to getting the games on sale. If your average consumer wanted to get Fates in its entirety on sale, they would have to wait for all three to drop in price. Which I think won't happen more than once in our lifetimes simply from experience at how Nintendo handles sales of their properties on their own shop.

Of course even this is subjective; one could acquire (for example) Birthright on sale for $20, then still pay full price for Conquest and Revelations (both digitally for $40 total), paying out a total of $60 and consider it a bargain since it is still less than the $80 typical cost. I consider it a bargain when I pay less than that magical perceived value amount of $30-50 we have been trained to accept.

(And I didn't touch on the classes bit because at the end of the day I'm a weird Fire Emblem player in that I only use Lords and Mages/Sages in my runs, never anyone else.)

so according to the comments here, $80 for the complete game is a scam, yet $80 for x2 pokemon games isn't, despite the fact that the normal change is just what is version exclusive??? I mean if you want to complete say pokemon Y by yourself you need at least 1 or 2(or more!) other pokemon games... never mind adding in the cost of a 2nd 3ds or 2DS

OR/AS (and R/S/E) at least made the story line slightly different in them but still.

oh don't forget PDM used to do a similar thing...

I just took a look at some unboxing videos for the Japanese Special Edition. It came with one cartridge with Birthright and Conquest on it. I think in japan people still had to wait to download Revelations. I'm not sure though.
Not here too argue, but in opinion, both versions have the same assets and fit on one cartridge...It's one game. One game with a ton of content, split into three games.
I already pre-ordered the SE so my wallet has spoken. But this whole business is quite unsavory. This is obviously a complex debate and only time will tell if Nintendo did a good thing or not.

EDIT: According to this press release from gamestop, all 3 paths fit on 1 cartridge. http://gonintendo.com/stories/247319-gamestop-fire-emblem-fates-special-edition-lets-you-play-revela

Nggggggghhhhhh....
I'm gonna get all three anyways...
I want the triple pack...but that price...
Does it include the games as hard copies, or downloads?

@Zelda64L As far as I've heard, it will cost just around the same price as the special edition. If you buy one copy of one of the versions, it costs $40 . You'll then be able to get the other version as DLC for $20. Then, about three weeks after the US release date of Fire Emblem Fates, you can get Revelation as DLC for $20. The special edition comes with all three games on one cartridge.
So if what I explained is correct, if you plan on playing all three paths, you'll still spend around $80, just like if you were to purchase the special edition. If you end up deciding on getting the special edition, good luck on finding one!