Bummer. I despise their bland 2D games and have long wanted them to go back to capitalise on the promise they showed with their earlier 3D games. Those too had issues, especially in presentation, but they were far more interesting and enjoyable on a fundamental level.
If this split leads to at least one of the studios resuming that trend then this may be for the best. RK's skill were largely wasted making mediocre 2D games during a time all markets are saturated with quality platformers. If taking those 2D games to mobile was their plan, then I believe they were in big trouble as I see no means by which their games would stand out in that marketplace, with a litany of far superior platformers available for free.
Anyway, here's hoping Infitizmo can finally get the remastered Dementium 2 to market, at least. Though it'll be a shame if we never see any original 3D projects from them again...
@Dr_Corndog What you say is absurd, Cave Story is one of the best games of its kind as well as an important indie artifact. The fact that one man made it before indie developers had been widely accepted means it will always be a significant milestone for indie games, but that's because it is a superbly designed, truly timeless game that compares favorably to the very best of 2D with a ton of charm, atmosphere, passion, and, most of all, extremely tight gameplay.
I would even put it on a short list of must play 2D platformers, as I believe every gamer should play it once or twice in their lives.
As an aside, "FM Sound Pack" refers to an alternative soundtrack created with frequency modulation synths that were popular in 80s-90s. This will alter the audio to sound in line with what Koshiro-san was using to create soundtracks in those days.
As I've grown up I tend to dread talking to NPCs and dealing with all the dialogue in RPGs when I really just want to game. As a result I end up over leveled and bored (gameplay-wise) in about every RPG I play, even though I adore the genre. This is why stories are so important to RPG games, but it doesn't have to be that way, those are often a crutch for an otherwise poor game. I respect that Nintendo's teams are always reexamining genres and gameplay functions to forge a new path.
Reminds me of a quote I'll never forget about Muhammad Ali: "he didn't grow up like you or I, instead he evolved... He was a kid with these crazy notions and he never moved on, he just kept reexamining those ideas and adapting..."
I find it disingenuous to cite Mighty No.9 in they way they are intending. That game is bad because it is poorly designed, poorly conceived on numerous levels. For example, they had opted for a 2D look with vastly improved level designs I think it could have offered what fans were hoping for, gameplay-wise.
Considering Mighty No. 9 had a publisher on top of a massive funding campaign, I find it very hard to peg many of the games troubles on the porting process.
If you have any interest in co-op twin stick shooters, this game should be on your Wii U. Don't let it slip through the cracks, it's potentially the best game of this ilk we are going to get.
Will own forever. My whole family adores this game. My five year-old daughter even claims its her favorite. This is a girl who has played Animal Crossing and Nintendogs since she could pick up a DS.
Love it, will give them all a shot for sure. Treasure arena and Windscape look like they could be potentially great games. Either way they each fill a niche that we don't see enough of. Legitimately excited for them both to release.
I don't love the FPS+Platforming speed running emphasis of SEUM, I would far prefer to mow down minions of hell than hop and bop across small platforms in first person... However, with decent gyro or IR controls I could see Wii U being the ideal console to play it on. Hopefully that will happen.
The problem lies at the core. Most third-party games these days are not attempting to stand out with fun, engaging gameplay as much as style, flash, and broad appeal. These games cannot hide on a Nintendo platform and unfortunately Nintendo fans have been practically raised to look skeptically upon most third-party games and their market focus.
It'll never work. EA makes cruddy games and Nintendo fans know it. We've been trained to look at gameplay first and the only EA series I can think of that are respectable on that front are Tiger Woods, SSX, and NFS.
Not to nitpick, but I'm pretty sure much of the development on this one is being handled by Team Soul with supervision from Harada and assisted by Tekken staff.
Look, I adored Super Mario RPG as a kid and thought Geno was all cool and mysterious like all ten year-olds, but nowadays he has to be the worst character frequently requested. His design is ugly, he has no character, no defining traits other than a Pinocchio who shoots... Like, it's hard to fathom what the hook is?
And I have to admit, it saddens me to see nondescript, mediocre characters like Geno garner substantial support... Then you have unique, fabulous characters like Hades, the best Nintendo villain possibly ever, relegated to complete obscurity. Completely disgusting.
Pretty solid clone, but I was hoping for better draw distances and frsmerate. Bummer. The other thing this game needs is a better feel to the weapons. The projectiles feel like you are launching spitballs.
We haven't even played TPHD and many of you are convinced already of the quality of this port. FPS is just a number until you play the game. None of the 3D Zeldas (unless you want to get technical with ALBW) have been 60fps. It's likely that getting TP to run at 60fps could mean significant changes to animations, physics, cutscenes, and overall gameplay. It's not some trivial alteration with %100 absolutely positive benefits, particularly if the result tarnishes the classic feel whatsoever.
Most everyone lauds the previous Zelda remakes (OoT3D, MM3D) and remasters (WWHD), yet they were all 30fps with significant drops (especially WWHD). So far, TPHD looks to run more smoothly with less substantial drops. The amount of effort and resulting quality of work by Nintendo and Tantalus remains to be seen.
At this point why don't we let the game get released before jumping to conclusions and/or calling out the development process as lazy?
@liveswired You have no idea how much time, money, or energy was spent on this port. Do not post your baseless speculation as fact. And how is Tantalus/Straight Right any less known than Bluepoint?
Since the kickstarter fell through, I'm taking those funds and buying five copies for friends and family. In know they will all appreciate the buoyant nature of FreezeMe and it will make me happy to see only the 2nd kickstarter I supported released (Shovel Knight was 1st) and hopefully enjoyed by people who wouldn't play it otherwise.
Kid Icarus, F-Zero, Excite Truck with elements of Bots and Wave Race.
I'm doomed to complete and utter disappointment. Oh well, I'll still enjoy almost everything on that list and I only didn't pick games like Splatoon because I feel it could come out around the NX's 1st May or holiday as a shot in the arm. Alternatively, it could launch with the home console if that device is indeed is a separate release. I would not be even surprised if the next Splatoon is only playable on the home console and requires the handheld. Think about it.
Nowadays kids think SMM is hip and with it, but back in day being hip meant collecting some useless cardboard and scanning them with a goofy device to join the elite upper crust of Mario fans. In a way, SMM is a regression because it allows the entire common populace to enjoy mechanics appropriate only for the most deserving Nintendo fans.
At least we still have Chargin' Chuck, you buncha moochers.
@Ralizah No No NO. The thought that Dementium II, which was less popular and more rare would get ignored because people didn't want to buy the vastly inferior and somewhat poorly designed original is unthinkable. Dementium II is the best thing Renegade Kid has done by a wide margin and they may never get funding for that sort of project again.
Compared to Moon Chronicles and the original, II is vital to Renegade Kid's legacy. They would he doing themselves a great disservice to let it become lost to history.
Pretty hyped for II. It's not a great game, but in opening the world to include outdoor environments that actually involve exploration, Dementium II really elevated the impact of it's take on the Silent Hill nightmare formula. Due to the hardware limitations, it also provokes a lot of nostalgia for mid-90s FPS. I mean that in the best possible terms.
You could make a case that the original is a more cohesive game with it's oppressive atmosphere and design, but whatever Dementium II loses in its scattered approach it more than makes up for in its ambition. To that end, it's just a far more interesting and enjoyable game.
So happy to see this getting a proper release. I was a supporter of the original kickstarter, which is an extremely rare occurrence for me, and so it's really satisfying to see FreezeMe get a chance despite failing to reach the kick starter goal. Kudos to the developer for pulling through where many others throw in the towel even when crossing that threshold.
@AyeHaley I mean, I get your point about the fancy tech, but as a longtime gamer the Wii U immediately spoke to me in ways VR never will. Playing console games on the couch, next to my wife while we watch, say, Top Chef was always a big selling point. Using the Gamepad to streamline UI and make inventory and map usage far more appealing was something I've dying for several generations as games got bigger and bigger. These are a few examples of exciting enhancements to the way we already play games. Additionally, they work to effectively increase the amount I can consume by making it easier to find time for games and making my gaming time more efficient.
First thing VR needs to prove is that we want to change how we play games. Wii and Mobile both succeeded in expanding the market by luring new customers into gaming. Still, they both face backlash from traditional gamers who prefer traditional devices. I see VR as playing out in a middle ground. Your primary initial market is likely to be traditional gamers, but can VR get them to do what Wii and Mobile haven't, at a much greater investment? That's not even taking into account the physical limitations that restrict consumption nor the over-reliance on expensive tech that could become a bottleneck if failure rates are high.
@rjejr I'm not sure if you're just playing dense, but I think it's clear that each ratio reflects the percentage of all respondents interested in each specific platform. Not sure why you'd be bothered that the sum isn't 100%... That would only reflect a lower overall interest in the collective platforms.
Well, you can't say it's only because of the market... Considering the interest in VR when there is little reason to be confident in that market becoming substantially lucrative anytime soon.
You know... I'm buying this. Felt the urge to take the plunge and now I wish I had. Kinda cool when you stumble on an addictive little gem in the rough.
@Tasuki It's not even as good as it's prequel (which had better pure racing and tracks, with awesome shortcuts, btw). I cringe every time someone mentions Transformed in that same breath as the great arcade racers.
As someone who mastered the time trials in both Sonic All Stars Racing and Transformed... The latter just seems a mess. Poor track layout, subpar mechanics, stupid clunky weapons, terrible flying and boating that adds nothing but spectacle... It had been a long time since I had played a game with such obtuse track designs where I would wonder which curve I was approaching even after re-playing a track for an hour straight. Besides, how anyone can whine about something like the Blue Shell and defend the Star power in Transformed is beyond me. Not that I would bother to whine about either, but the Star Power is just a dumb mechanic.
EDIT: I forgot to make mention of the horrible mission mode, which features some of the mind-numbingly dull challenges executed with as little flair as I can imagine. Many people point this out as a testament to its features and content, but for me going through those missions to unlock characters and such was borderline torture. Just bad game design all around.
@VR32F1END Mother Brain? That's...erm.. Me sitting at my desk, looking dapper.
Seriously, though. What if I told you I only like Metroid Fusion, does that validate my opinion. Then again, I also like Other M... Anyway, the Mother Brain battles in Metroid and Super were two of my most memorable videogame memories as a child. And Super Metroid was my sole favorite videogame for much of my video gaming life (followed by fare such as Zelda: LttP, Chrono Trigger, Super Mario World, Contra, Earthbound, The Guardian Legend, Super Bomberman, M.U.S.H.A, Mega Man X, TMNT Arcade Attack, Ducktales (1st game ever beaten on my own), etc...).
So maybe my opinion is skewed, but Super Metroid was just that incredible in the mid -90s and Zero Mission is an excellent remake of the original to bring it up to (and above) par. Super Metroid is one of the best games ever made, but Zero Mission is the Metroid is that everyone should play.
Zero Mission is one of my favorite handheld games of all time. Along with KI:Uprising, WarioWare, Inc., Bangai-O Spirits, A Link Between Worlds, Advance Wars, Pokemon HG/SS, etc.
My wife works electronics at Target. She has seen several people come in to scan with their New 3DS each day since they received their shipment. Target employees bought about half the first day and the rest have been sitting on the shelf. This is akin to stealing and it's sad.
I like Metroid Fusion, but to me Super Metroid and even Zero Mission are on a whole different level. Maybe it's from having grown up playing Metroid and Super Metroid (the favorite game of ten year-old me), but the obtrusive story and pacing effectively tarnish Fusion's status as a classic Metroid in my eyes.
What separated Metroid from most games in that era was the sense of exploration and discovery, which Fusion completely lacks without a suitable replacement. The plot isn't interesting enough to justify this loss and the linear levels lack the freeform design that made Super Metroid a legend. That you could use your abilities in unique ways to subvert the intended critical path was a revolutionary feeling at the time and I would still challenge anyone to find a 2D side-scroller that does it better. The Zebes in Super Metroid is a standard-bearer for 2D world design. The legacy of that game cannot be understated.
To that effect, Metroid Fusion feels like a watered-down concept to distill the incredible Metroid level design down and make it easier to digest. So, I feel it checks a lot of those boxes, but the feeling is much less impactful. For instance, many of the secret paths feel obvious, like the game wants you to find them the first time through. Which is I understand, but to me it's like the thrill is gone and getting from point A to B is about going through the motions.
I'm almost offended that Shantae and (somewhat less so) Fatal Frame made the eShop list. I find the Pirates curse to be a dreadfully dull game and Fatal Frame just lacks the gameplay chops to hang with Affordable Space Adventures and Runbow... Not to mention other exquisite fare, such as Extreme Exorcism, Freedom Planet, etc. Of course, FAST taking home the trophy makes it all worth it.
Beyond that it's pretty solid. Splatoon and Xenoblade are two or my favorite games in years, so it's good to see the readers give them recognition. Pretty great year, I'd say.
Big fan of this sort of game, so I'll buy it promptly after the Christmas rush. Honestly, at this point in my life I'd rather pick up a game like this for score-attacking purposes than to play through some lame story.
@faint ...And you just had to get into the specifics, didn't you? I know, I know... But seeing the figure in print just makes it hurt all the worse.
Basically since the SNES era RPGs on Nintendo consoles have not been able to catch a break in Japan. It's pretty discouraging after both Xenoblades' moderate sales performance despite their magnificence. You wonder if there is anything Nintendo can do short of pulling out all the stops to ensure every significant RPG release is on their next console, along with continuing to fund their own distinct catalog.
Now #FE isn't the kind of game to burst out of the gates, so you want to believe maybe if word of mouth is positive... But I have to stop myself there, because very few console games these days show any significant legs, particularly once you get outside the wheelhouse of a few established franchises and Nintendo long-strong. Add to that the pitiful legs of previous Wii U "core" games in Japan and it's clear #FE has next to no chance to turn it around.
Yet, in this case it's exceptionally upsetting because even if this game shows little of the FE heritage... It carries its namesake along with an original spin on popular gameplay systems and suitable development effort. At best, maybe it will help encourage Nintendo to strive for more new franchises in various genres rather than the tired spinoff route.
@Gerbwmu And then some. Beyond the 3DS powerhouses (MH, YW, and now, possibly, MS)... They've already essentially sold out their Splatoon and SMM Wii U bundles nationwide.
The big knock is going to be the #FE sales, sadly it could be worse than the lowest predictions.
Comments 1,409
Re: Renegade Kid Closes as Co-Founders Launch Separate Studios
Bummer. I despise their bland 2D games and have long wanted them to go back to capitalise on the promise they showed with their earlier 3D games. Those too had issues, especially in presentation, but they were far more interesting and enjoyable on a fundamental level.
If this split leads to at least one of the studios resuming that trend then this may be for the best. RK's skill were largely wasted making mediocre 2D games during a time all markets are saturated with quality platformers. If taking those 2D games to mobile was their plan, then I believe they were in big trouble as I see no means by which their games would stand out in that marketplace, with a litany of far superior platformers available for free.
Anyway, here's hoping Infitizmo can finally get the remastered Dementium 2 to market, at least. Though it'll be a shame if we never see any original 3D projects from them again...
Re: A Nicalis Sale is Live on the North American 3DS and Wii U eShops
@Dr_Corndog What you say is absurd, Cave Story is one of the best games of its kind as well as an important indie artifact. The fact that one man made it before indie developers had been widely accepted means it will always be a significant milestone for indie games, but that's because it is a superbly designed, truly timeless game that compares favorably to the very best of 2D with a ton of charm, atmosphere, passion, and, most of all, extremely tight gameplay.
I would even put it on a short list of must play 2D platformers, as I believe every gamer should play it once or twice in their lives.
Re: The Definitive Version Of Super Turrican Was Denied A Virtual Console Release Back In 2008
Bring Super Turrican 2 back to the VC and all will be forgiven.
Re: Nintendo Download: 21st July (North America)
Are we ever getting Ziggurat? Or Bit Dungeon+?
Re: Gotta Protectors Looks Like an Amazing and Quirky Throwback to '80s Gaming
@Gen0neD Right on.
Re: Gotta Protectors Looks Like an Amazing and Quirky Throwback to '80s Gaming
Cannot wait.
As an aside, "FM Sound Pack" refers to an alternative soundtrack created with frequency modulation synths that were popular in 80s-90s. This will alter the audio to sound in line with what Koshiro-san was using to create soundtracks in those days.
Re: Nintendo Producer Highlights How Paper Mario: Color Splash Improves on Sticker Star
As I've grown up I tend to dread talking to NPCs and dealing with all the dialogue in RPGs when I really just want to game. As a result I end up over leveled and bored (gameplay-wise) in about every RPG I play, even though I adore the genre. This is why stories are so important to RPG games, but it doesn't have to be that way, those are often a crutch for an otherwise poor game. I respect that Nintendo's teams are always reexamining genres and gameplay functions to forge a new path.
Reminds me of a quote I'll never forget about Muhammad Ali: "he didn't grow up like you or I, instead he evolved... He was a kid with these crazy notions and he never moved on, he just kept reexamining those ideas and adapting..."
Re: Two-Player Roguelike Bit Dungeon+ Coming To Wii U eShop This Month
I'll be all over it.
Re: Faux-Retro Survival Horror Back In 1995 64 Shuffles Menacingly Towards The Nintendo 3DS
Beautiful.
Re: Wii U Version Of Road Redemption Being "Re-Evaluated"
I find it disingenuous to cite Mighty No.9 in they way they are intending. That game is bad because it is poorly designed, poorly conceived on numerous levels. For example, they had opted for a 2D look with vastly improved level designs I think it could have offered what fans were hoping for, gameplay-wise.
Considering Mighty No. 9 had a publisher on top of a massive funding campaign, I find it very hard to peg many of the games troubles on the porting process.
Re: Review: Dual Core (Wii U eShop)
If you have any interest in co-op twin stick shooters, this game should be on your Wii U. Don't let it slip through the cracks, it's potentially the best game of this ilk we are going to get.
Re: Dual Core Gets European Release Date Along With Update in North America
One of the better Wii U indie games in recent memory if you like local multiplayer. Good fun and really a pleasant surprise.
Re: Random: Store Shelves Appear To Be Filling With Pre-Owned Copies Of Star Fox Zero
Will own forever. My whole family adores this game. My five year-old daughter even claims its her favorite. This is a girl who has played Animal Crossing and Nintendogs since she could pick up a DS.
Re: M2 Thinks Sega's Alien Syndrome Would Make A Great 3D Classic
M.U.S.H.A
Re: Poll: The Wii U GamePad - Where Do You Stand on Nintendo's Hefty Controller?
Splatoon is the best use of the Gamepad, easily. Why not include it?
Re: Headup Games Lines Up More Intriguing Titles for the Wii U eShop
Love it, will give them all a shot for sure. Treasure arena and Windscape look like they could be potentially great games. Either way they each fill a niche that we don't see enough of. Legitimately excited for them both to release.
I don't love the FPS+Platforming speed running emphasis of SEUM, I would far prefer to mow down minions of hell than hop and bop across small platforms in first person... However, with decent gyro or IR controls I could see Wii U being the ideal console to play it on. Hopefully that will happen.
Re: Former Rare And Retro Staffer Rhys Lewis Is Bringing Procedurally Generated Shmup Action To The Wii U
Awesome, gimme.
Re: Editorial: Triple-A Third Party Games Will Need Creativity as Well as Marketing for NX Success
The problem lies at the core. Most third-party games these days are not attempting to stand out with fun, engaging gameplay as much as style, flash, and broad appeal. These games cannot hide on a Nintendo platform and unfortunately Nintendo fans have been practically raised to look skeptically upon most third-party games and their market focus.
Re: Video: Soul Axiom's Launch Trailer Is Part Tron, Part Lawnmower Man
Performance. Then will buy. That's all.
Re: Interview: Sadame and Its Quest to Bring Exciting Action and Japanese History Together
Looks too rad for words. Been hoping for a game like this on 3DS and the slick sprite work is the cherry on top. Can't wait.
Re: Rumour: EA And Nintendo Looking To Rekindle "Unprecedented Partnership" On NX
It'll never work. EA makes cruddy games and Nintendo fans know it. We've been trained to look at gameplay first and the only EA series I can think of that are respectable on that front are Tiger Woods, SSX, and NFS.
Re: Katsuhiro Harada on What Sets Pokkén Tournament Apart from Tekken
Not to nitpick, but I'm pretty sure much of the development on this one is being handled by Team Soul with supervision from Harada and assisted by Tekken staff.
Re: Masahiro Sakurai Wanted Geno to be a Playable Smash Bros. Fighter
Look, I adored Super Mario RPG as a kid and thought Geno was all cool and mysterious like all ten year-olds, but nowadays he has to be the worst character frequently requested. His design is ugly, he has no character, no defining traits other than a Pinocchio who shoots... Like, it's hard to fathom what the hook is?
And I have to admit, it saddens me to see nondescript, mediocre characters like Geno garner substantial support... Then you have unique, fabulous characters like Hades, the best Nintendo villain possibly ever, relegated to complete obscurity. Completely disgusting.
Re: Cube Life: Island Survival Climbs the eShop Charts in Japan
Pretty solid clone, but I was hoping for better draw distances and frsmerate. Bummer. The other thing this game needs is a better feel to the weapons. The projectiles feel like you are launching spitballs.
Re: Video: Digital Foundry Tackles the Native Resolution and Framerate in The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD
We haven't even played TPHD and many of you are convinced already of the quality of this port. FPS is just a number until you play the game. None of the 3D Zeldas (unless you want to get technical with ALBW) have been 60fps. It's likely that getting TP to run at 60fps could mean significant changes to animations, physics, cutscenes, and overall gameplay. It's not some trivial alteration with %100 absolutely positive benefits, particularly if the result tarnishes the classic feel whatsoever.
Most everyone lauds the previous Zelda remakes (OoT3D, MM3D) and remasters (WWHD), yet they were all 30fps with significant drops (especially WWHD). So far, TPHD looks to run more smoothly with less substantial drops. The amount of effort and resulting quality of work by Nintendo and Tantalus remains to be seen.
At this point why don't we let the game get released before jumping to conclusions and/or calling out the development process as lazy?
Re: Video: Digital Foundry Tackles the Native Resolution and Framerate in The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD
@liveswired You have no idea how much time, money, or energy was spent on this port. Do not post your baseless speculation as fact. And how is Tantalus/Straight Right any less known than Bluepoint?
Re: Interview: Learning More About FreezeME, a Surprising 3D Platformer for Wii U
Since the kickstarter fell through, I'm taking those funds and buying five copies for friends and family. In know they will all appreciate the buoyant nature of FreezeMe and it will make me happy to see only the 2nd kickstarter I supported released (Shovel Knight was 1st) and hopefully enjoyed by people who wouldn't play it otherwise.
Re: Poll: Which Nintendo Franchises Do You Most Want to See With the NX Launch?
Kid Icarus, F-Zero, Excite Truck with elements of Bots and Wave Race.
I'm doomed to complete and utter disappointment. Oh well, I'll still enjoy almost everything on that list and I only didn't pick games like Splatoon because I feel it could come out around the NX's 1st May or holiday as a shot in the arm. Alternatively, it could launch with the home console if that device is indeed is a separate release. I would not be even surprised if the next Splatoon is only playable on the home console and requires the handheld. Think about it.
Re: Dual Core Aims to Blend Twin Stick Shooting, Co-Op and a "Dash of RPG Elements" on Wii U
Cool news. Here's hoping their instincts are correct. I'll certainly buy it regardless.
Re: Gunscape, the Level Creator and Cross-Platform FPS, is Now Due on Wii U in Q2
Please be good. And please, please, PLEASE support gyro and Wiimote aiming!
Re: Shutshimi Will Bring Shmup Mayhem to Wii U in North America on 4th February
Can't wait. Love shmups. Love fish. Love Wario Ware. Love muscles. OK, less so on that last one... Point remains, this game is for me. Day one.
Re: Random: This 'Bullet Time' Super Mario Maker Level Uses an Awesome Slow Motion Glitch
That looks dreadful to be honest.
Re: Here's a Breakdown of the Extra e-Reader Levels in Super Mario Advance 4: Super Mario Bros. 3 on the Wii U
Nowadays kids think SMM is hip and with it, but back in day being hip meant collecting some useless cardboard and scanning them with a goofy device to join the elite upper crust of Mario fans. In a way, SMM is a regression because it allows the entire common populace to enjoy mechanics appropriate only for the most deserving Nintendo fans.
At least we still have Chargin' Chuck, you buncha moochers.
Re: Dementium Remastered Targets a February Release in Europe and Australia, Dementium II Remastered Nears Completion
@Ralizah No No NO. The thought that Dementium II, which was less popular and more rare would get ignored because people didn't want to buy the vastly inferior and somewhat poorly designed original is unthinkable. Dementium II is the best thing Renegade Kid has done by a wide margin and they may never get funding for that sort of project again.
Compared to Moon Chronicles and the original, II is vital to Renegade Kid's legacy. They would he doing themselves a great disservice to let it become lost to history.
Re: Dementium Remastered Targets a February Release in Europe and Australia, Dementium II Remastered Nears Completion
Pretty hyped for II. It's not a great game, but in opening the world to include outdoor environments that actually involve exploration, Dementium II really elevated the impact of it's take on the Silent Hill nightmare formula. Due to the hardware limitations, it also provokes a lot of nostalgia for mid-90s FPS. I mean that in the best possible terms.
You could make a case that the original is a more cohesive game with it's oppressive atmosphere and design, but whatever Dementium II loses in its scattered approach it more than makes up for in its ambition. To that end, it's just a far more interesting and enjoyable game.
Re: FreezeME Has Been Approved for a Wii U Release by Nintendo of America
So happy to see this getting a proper release. I was a supporter of the original kickstarter, which is an extremely rare occurrence for me, and so it's really satisfying to see FreezeMe get a chance despite failing to reach the kick starter goal. Kudos to the developer for pulling through where many others throw in the towel even when crossing that threshold.
Re: GDC Survey Shows Declining Interest From Developers in Wii U and 3DS
@AyeHaley I mean, I get your point about the fancy tech, but as a longtime gamer the Wii U immediately spoke to me in ways VR never will. Playing console games on the couch, next to my wife while we watch, say, Top Chef was always a big selling point. Using the Gamepad to streamline UI and make inventory and map usage far more appealing was something I've dying for several generations as games got bigger and bigger. These are a few examples of exciting enhancements to the way we already play games. Additionally, they work to effectively increase the amount I can consume by making it easier to find time for games and making my gaming time more efficient.
First thing VR needs to prove is that we want to change how we play games. Wii and Mobile both succeeded in expanding the market by luring new customers into gaming. Still, they both face backlash from traditional gamers who prefer traditional devices. I see VR as playing out in a middle ground. Your primary initial market is likely to be traditional gamers, but can VR get them to do what Wii and Mobile haven't, at a much greater investment? That's not even taking into account the physical limitations that restrict consumption nor the over-reliance on expensive tech that could become a bottleneck if failure rates are high.
Re: GDC Survey Shows Declining Interest From Developers in Wii U and 3DS
@rjejr I'm not sure if you're just playing dense, but I think it's clear that each ratio reflects the percentage of all respondents interested in each specific platform. Not sure why you'd be bothered that the sum isn't 100%... That would only reflect a lower overall interest in the collective platforms.
Re: GDC Survey Shows Declining Interest From Developers in Wii U and 3DS
Well, you can't say it's only because of the market... Considering the interest in VR when there is little reason to be confident in that market becoming substantially lucrative anytime soon.
Re: Review: Near Earth Objects (Wii U eShop)
You know... I'm buying this. Felt the urge to take the plunge and now I wish I had. Kinda cool when you stumble on an addictive little gem in the rough.
Re: Nintendo Download: 14th January (North America)
@Tasuki It's not even as good as it's prequel (which had better pure racing and tracks, with awesome shortcuts, btw). I cringe every time someone mentions Transformed in that same breath as the great arcade racers.
As someone who mastered the time trials in both Sonic All Stars Racing and Transformed... The latter just seems a mess. Poor track layout, subpar mechanics, stupid clunky weapons, terrible flying and boating that adds nothing but spectacle... It had been a long time since I had played a game with such obtuse track designs where I would wonder which curve I was approaching even after re-playing a track for an hour straight. Besides, how anyone can whine about something like the Blue Shell and defend the Star power in Transformed is beyond me. Not that I would bother to whine about either, but the Star Power is just a dumb mechanic.
EDIT: I forgot to make mention of the horrible mission mode, which features some of the mind-numbingly dull challenges executed with as little flair as I can imagine. Many people point this out as a testament to its features and content, but for me going through those missions to unlock characters and such was borderline torture. Just bad game design all around.
Re: Nintendo Download: 14th January (North America)
@VR32F1END Mother Brain? That's...erm.. Me sitting at my desk, looking dapper.
Seriously, though. What if I told you I only like Metroid Fusion, does that validate my opinion. Then again, I also like Other M... Anyway, the Mother Brain battles in Metroid and Super were two of my most memorable videogame memories as a child. And Super Metroid was my sole favorite videogame for much of my video gaming life (followed by fare such as Zelda: LttP, Chrono Trigger, Super Mario World, Contra, Earthbound, The Guardian Legend, Super Bomberman, M.U.S.H.A, Mega Man X, TMNT Arcade Attack, Ducktales (1st game ever beaten on my own), etc...).
So maybe my opinion is skewed, but Super Metroid was just that incredible in the mid -90s and Zero Mission is an excellent remake of the original to bring it up to (and above) par. Super Metroid is one of the best games ever made, but Zero Mission is the Metroid is that everyone should play.
EDIT: Recalled a few mid-90s childhood faves.
Re: Nintendo Download: 14th January (North America)
Zero Mission is one of my favorite handheld games of all time. Along with KI:Uprising, WarioWare, Inc., Bangai-O Spirits, A Link Between Worlds, Advance Wars, Pokemon HG/SS, etc.
Everyone should play it.
Re: Yes, You Can Scan The Shovel Knight amiibo While It's Still In Its Box
My wife works electronics at Target. She has seen several people come in to scan with their New 3DS each day since they received their shipment. Target employees bought about half the first day and the rest have been sitting on the shelf. This is akin to stealing and it's sad.
Re: Feature: Why We're Still Playing... Metroid Fusion
I like Metroid Fusion, but to me Super Metroid and even Zero Mission are on a whole different level. Maybe it's from having grown up playing Metroid and Super Metroid (the favorite game of ten year-old me), but the obtrusive story and pacing effectively tarnish Fusion's status as a classic Metroid in my eyes.
What separated Metroid from most games in that era was the sense of exploration and discovery, which Fusion completely lacks without a suitable replacement. The plot isn't interesting enough to justify this loss and the linear levels lack the freeform design that made Super Metroid a legend. That you could use your abilities in unique ways to subvert the intended critical path was a revolutionary feeling at the time and I would still challenge anyone to find a 2D side-scroller that does it better. The Zebes in Super Metroid is a standard-bearer for 2D world design. The legacy of that game cannot be understated.
To that effect, Metroid Fusion feels like a watered-down concept to distill the incredible Metroid level design down and make it easier to digest. So, I feel it checks a lot of those boxes, but the feeling is much less impactful. For instance, many of the secret paths feel obvious, like the game wants you to find them the first time through. Which is I understand, but to me it's like the thrill is gone and getting from point A to B is about going through the motions.
Re: Game of the Year: Nintendo Life's Reader Awards 2015
I'm almost offended that Shantae and (somewhat less so) Fatal Frame made the eShop list. I find the Pirates curse to be a dreadfully dull game and Fatal Frame just lacks the gameplay chops to hang with Affordable Space Adventures and Runbow... Not to mention other exquisite fare, such as Extreme Exorcism, Freedom Planet, etc. Of course, FAST taking home the trophy makes it all worth it.
Beyond that it's pretty solid. Splatoon and Xenoblade are two or my favorite games in years, so it's good to see the readers give them recognition. Pretty great year, I'd say.
Re: Review: Temple of Yog (Wii U eShop)
Big fan of this sort of game, so I'll buy it promptly after the Christmas rush. Honestly, at this point in my life I'd rather pick up a game like this for score-attacking purposes than to play through some lame story.
Re: Monster Strike Ships Over A Million Copies In Just Four Days
@faint ...And you just had to get into the specifics, didn't you? I know, I know... But seeing the figure in print just makes it hurt all the worse.
Basically since the SNES era RPGs on Nintendo consoles have not been able to catch a break in Japan. It's pretty discouraging after both Xenoblades' moderate sales performance despite their magnificence. You wonder if there is anything Nintendo can do short of pulling out all the stops to ensure every significant RPG release is on their next console, along with continuing to fund their own distinct catalog.
Now #FE isn't the kind of game to burst out of the gates, so you want to believe maybe if word of mouth is positive... But I have to stop myself there, because very few console games these days show any significant legs, particularly once you get outside the wheelhouse of a few established franchises and Nintendo long-strong. Add to that the pitiful legs of previous Wii U "core" games in Japan and it's clear #FE has next to no chance to turn it around.
Yet, in this case it's exceptionally upsetting because even if this game shows little of the FE heritage... It carries its namesake along with an original spin on popular gameplay systems and suitable development effort. At best, maybe it will help encourage Nintendo to strive for more new franchises in various genres rather than the tired spinoff route.
Re: Monster Strike Ships Over A Million Copies In Just Four Days
@Gerbwmu And then some. Beyond the 3DS powerhouses (MH, YW, and now, possibly, MS)... They've already essentially sold out their Splatoon and SMM Wii U bundles nationwide.
The big knock is going to be the #FE sales, sadly it could be worse than the lowest predictions.
Re: Former Argonaut Staffer Is Reviving The Legendary Neo Geo Title Windjammers On 3DS
I desperately want this to be good.