Well, like a wise user said, Nintendo has become a skeleton company that barely develops any games, with most first-party games being outsourced. Sometimes they buy the studios if the results are satisfying, like Next Level Games. Sometimes they just hire them. They also have made an immeasurable amount of money this (actually, last, since Switch belongs to the last) generation with fully-priced Wii U ports and Switch hardware and accessories, with relatively low budgets and high prices.
@8bit-Man He also said that it's "bad news for Switch" (video section headline), that "it sure feels a lot worse to play", that the last-gen versions are fine in comparison (someone here asked about the PS4 version and I replied with frame rate details) and that the frame pacing is bad. He also mentions the bad quality of the graphics and the low resolution in Shadow's Generations. The vast majority of what he says about the Switch version is negative.
@the_beaver I am good, don't worry. I'll try to explain once again because you don't understand what I said. The video says that the Switch version is a disappointment, "bad news for Switch", "it sure feels a lot worse to play" (comparing it to the last-gen versions), and that the frame rate pacing issues are frequent and affect the gameplay. There are nine versions of this game and he said that Switch is the worst. He said all that, but it's also evident in the footage. You don't need to play the game on nine different platforms to know that, that's why Digital Foundry exists to begin with. Like it or not, that's the truth, and I have nothing to do with it. Last but not least, this is not one of those cases you need a microscope to notice the differences like in other comparisons, e.g., Sonic Origins in 1080p or 2160p.
@8bit-Man I'm not twisting anything. I respectfully replied because you referred to other posters (me and others) with "I’m surprised to see so many complaints from tech snobs." I am sure that I am not the only one finding that comment jarring, considering the topic and the video. Digital Foundry literally said, "It sure feels a lot worse to play" comparing it to the last-gen versions, and "Bad news for Switch" as the headline for that video section. Some users here say that they find the Switch version fine and I'm happy for them, but that's not what you said. Again, it's weird that you are surprised to see "tech snobs" disappointed on a thread about a Digital Foundry analysis, when Digital Foundry are disappointed as well.
@8bit-Man What did you expect to read on a thread about Digital Foundry's analysis? This is useful information for many users, that is why Nintendo Life reports on it. Why does it bother you?
@DanijoEX-the-Pierrot The Xbox One (X) and PS4 (Pro) versions have Sonic Generations running at 60fps and Shadows Generations running at 30fps, if that helps. Both titles run at 60fps on Xbox Series S. The Switch version "sure feels a lot worse to play."
@Thomas96 I haven't played Shadow's campaign yet. I rate Sonic Generation 9 or 10 (played it on Series X), but you are right, the 2D sections aren't as great because of the physics and controls, so probably 9 because of them. They finally nailed physics and controls in Sonic Superstars, thanks to Christian Whitehead's Retro Engine 😅. I am looking forward to the next 2D and 3D entries, now that they got them both right. 👍
@Mgalens I was also a kid when I played Sonic 3 & Knuckles for the first time, and it's my favourite Sonic game. Like you said, boss battles are a bit more complex than previously and the shields and different characters introduce a lot of variety in the game.
@kepsux Yeah, I can imagine Nintendo doing something like that. I don't know if this app is good or bad news. Nintendo is scary. Instead of putting their music on streaming platforms they create their own. What is worse, now they have another excuse to stalk fans and unofficial listeners. Next generation we'll be slaves in chains playing their games inside a factory and drinking McMario Coke instead of water.
@Mgalens It's always nice having a notification from you. You are completely right. It's like some people have reached the conclusion that if people don't agree with them or like the same things, they are wrong. It could be because they have no real communication in their lives. It's also lack of empathy and respect.
Back to Sonic, I really enjoyed it on Series X and it was a pleasure for my senses as it got upgraded to 4K60FPS. It took me a while unlocking 100% of the game, so I'm not sure if I'd do the same, because it's more fun just rushing through the stages. In any case, I will get this new version just for Shadow's campaign.
I know that many people criticised Sonic Superstars (did you like it?), but I also enjoyed that one, except for the unnecessarily long boss battles. I hope we get a sequel, now that they finally got the physics right using Retro Engine and they know that boss battles should be short. I'm also looking forward to Sonic's next 3D game, considering how smooth the camera and controls in Sonic Frontiers are and that the level design for this new campaign was a success. It's like both 2D and 3D are finally fine.
"Reaction: With Xenoblade Chronicles X On Switch, The Wii U's Demise Is Complete"
Pure sensationalism. If we compare both, Wii U still has backwards compatibility (Wii, GC), Virtual Console (N64, SNES and NES) and exclusive titles. Switch is not backwards compatible with any console and doesn't have Virtual Console nor any kind of ownership for retro games.
@REAVERZINE You are entitled to your opinion in a comments section and, actually, it makes sense, although I've seen worse: "Naysayers won't change their mind", like suggesting that those that don't like a certain game are the opposite of intelligent, and many more conclusions that don't make any sense, which is why I don't take reviews very seriously these days.
This is a nice review that covers everything. Although I disagree with the ridiculous censorship in Sonic Generations as an owner of the original Series X version in 4K60FPS, I'm happy to see that Shadow Generations turned out fantastic. You are not the only one saying so. That said, I prefer to play it on Xbox for obvious reasons.
Sonic Frontiers got a lot of things right, but it's true that it lacks that Sonic flavour in the huge hub world and enemies. Combining the improvements made in Sonic Frontiers, namely the camera and gameplay, and the new material made for Shadow Generations, the future of Sonic is bright, indeed!
@Lightsiyd Thank you. If a Sonic game is unnecessarily censored, they must expect these reactions. So many times, video game companies have backpedalled because of the reaction and, while some people might seem overreactive, many things are common sense and must be done to protect the consumers. We as consumers must demand what is reasonably fair.
Recent examples:
1) Loot boxes being regulated.
2) Sony removing the PS5 software upgrade fee (for a while, now it's back).
3) Microtransactions being removed from many games.
4) Microtransactions no longer pay-to-win in most cases.
5) Nintendo removing abusive and illegal terms from their contracts in EU and UK, e.g., those regarding the rights of consumers and digital pre-orders.
6) Nintendo expanding the guarantee of the joy-cons.
7) Google and Apple forced to allow other digital stores (in EU and UK).
8) Manufacturers forced to keep spare parts for longer.
What some people fail to see is where we would be if everyone was okay with everything. We must keep a balance as part of the society and not become slaves.
The problem is that if people are okay with a game being ridiculously censored, it will get worse each time. At this rate, the dialogues and cut scenes will be built by AI that checks all the tick boxes in advance. 😅
@Serpenterror Thanks for the video. Guess I will keep playing the Xbox 360 version in 4K60fps on Series X. What a shame they had to do this to a masterpiece when bringing it to other platforms.
@Toastmaster I agree! I love Wii U and also New Nintendo 3DS (the smaller version). I made some drawings on Miiverse, the Gamepad was a lot of fun for messing around. I find my customised SNES Mini a joy to use, it's amazing how the SNES controller still is so good for 2D gaming. Switch, on the other hand, I haven't it enjoyed as much.
@Toastmaster Wii U is versatile and the best Nintendo machine for retro gaming. It's natively compatible with Wii and GC, similar to 3DS being natively compatible with DS and GBA. Like you say, you can connect two HDDs or two USB memory sticks and the official Wii U or Switch adapter for GC controllers. It supports a lot of Nintendo controllers: Wii U, Wii, GC...
Tekken Tag Tournament 2 for Wii U is a title I have, my favourite character being Slim Bob. 😁
@NinChocolate New Super Mario Bros. U is the best in the New series, but New Super Mario Bros. 2 should be at the bottom. It actually is around there. They were developed by different teams. Obviously. It's the lowest possible quality in all senses... and also the first Nintendo retail game to be released digitally. It was marketed comparing it with Super Mario Bros. 3 on the eShop. Ouch.
@Toastmaster I have that version of Need for Speed Most Wanted! It was well received, but I didn't know that it was that difficult to make. I also have the Armoured Edition of Batman Arkham City that I know has special features on Wii U, like the prototype of Breath of the Wild, until Nintendo decided to downgrade it because of Switch. Wii U is fascinating.
@Toastmaster All true. Game Pass, Xbox Anywhere, Smart Delivery, free upgrades and time-saving Quick Resume. Another thing I can add is that Square Enix and Microsoft replaced the low-quality and highly compressed cutscenes of the original Xbox 360 version of the Final Fantasy XIII trilogy with the raw material, massively improving the quality of the cutscenes.
Also, as you have explained, Rare Replay is technically impossible on Switch or Switch 2 so, in this case, begging for a port is pointless.
@Toastmaster They are not true fans if they haven't bought Rare Replay! You are right, it's not that Xbox One emulates Xbox 360, but that they managed to translate the original code so it could be played on a console with a totally different architecture and running Windows. Otherwise, it would have been impossible. It took years to get games running, some cases were very challenging and many were improved eventually in terms of performance and resolution, including Banjo-Kazooie Nuts & Bolts. Microsoft's engineers did an awesome job, and backwards compatibility is reason enough to own an Xbox One or Series X|S, plus all the reasons I discovered later: excellent and reliable hardware, comfy controller, generous services, huge catalogue... Basically, Rare Replay made me an Xbox fan.
@Toastmaster " Rare Replay were the reason why i bought Xbox 9 years ago, and i also bought the Xbox One X at launch in 2017 so i could play them and other games in 4K/60."
Same here! I got Xbox One and Rare Replay at the same time. I can't understand how some people here haven't done the same. I have never regretted my decision and, like you, I've upgraded my Xbox since.
@ThainEshKelch I agree except for Super Mario Odyssey that I didn't like much. Answering your question, Super Mario Galaxy 1 and 2 are more action-oriented and linear than the previous 3D titles, and those that enjoy action, prefer the Galaxy games. Similarly, the 3D Land/World games are simpler and some prefer that, a 3D version of Super Mario Bros. 1. Super Mario Sunshine has a lot of challenge, exploration, real platforming, impressive bosses, great controls and beautiful locations and music, which is why it's my favourite in the 3D category, but some people feel frustrated or overwhelmed playing it and don't appreciate it as much.
@m0i Right. Ubisoft doesn't do everything right (who does?), but when it released Immortals Fenyx Rising, some people said that it was a Breath of the Wild clone and made fun of it, but didn't play it. All games are inspired by others, Breath of the Wild included. Actually, Assassin's Creed is one of its sources... and Skyrim... and Monster Hunter... The problem is that, in this industry, some publishers are scrutinised and criticised harshly and others are given a permanent free pass. I have read reviews of great games with complaints like it doesn't innovate enough, but then the same reviewer gives 10/10 to games that are literally a copy-paste or a DLC semi-sequel. Like the youtubers you mention, that are looking for clicks or engagement. Sometimes, you can only try yourself or read user opinions for reliable feedback.
@m0i Yes, I'm also happy to see more developers making smaller and more colourful games and I also think that Nintendo is currently in a great position and, although I don't agree with many things they have done lately, I can't wait to see what's coming from them in the next years.
For a while, it was like everybody but Nintendo wanted to make the next Fortnite (looking at Concorde now) and, generally speaking, online games full of microtransactions, because they thought that they would get richer that way (like Epic and others), but that changed, because the fact that something is successful, doesn't mean that the whole world is willing to play that and every clone indefinitely. It's logical, but logic seems to not apply to some financial reports.
I'm going to use an "offline" and third party example, Ubisoft. I like many things about Ubisoft, but not long ago, they stated that they were going to focus on Assassin's Creed, as if they were not focused on it enough. They neglected other IPs, but the last AC (Mirage) was smaller, trying to be more like the original game. They also released a fantastic Prince of Persia and, before that, Immortals Fenyx Rising, which I loved. The fact that they focused so much on AC's template for so long, was not beneficial in the long term and even affected the impressive Avatar (the best-looking game of the year according to DF) and Ubisoft's value as company. Another recent game I loved and doesn't follow modern templates is Capcom's Path of the Goddess.
So yeah, we need the variety, the big and small games. Quality and variety are the only things that can keep the industry healthy. It's funny when a random indie game becomes the best-selling game or the game of the year while a Fortnite clone fails.
@Jalex_64 I just explained to you what you seemed to ignore. Most of your text here is either ambiguous or wrong, so I will just clarify a few things quickly, so we don't get into an endless loop that nobody wants.
"Even the fact you bring this up demonstrates a certain desperation on your part to justify owning your preferred platform."
Wrong. All platforms are valid options. I had all consoles last generation except Vita. I have been playing on Nintendo since SNES. It's the opposite, you are biased and ignore all the good things about Xbox and look down on it. This sentence of yours is actually quite desperate.
"The remasters are a nice extra but that’s rarely a deciding factor for consumers when choosing a new console."
That was just one of the many reasons to choose Xbox because you were talking as if you knew every gamer in the world, and you are wrong. You were trying to make it sound like Xbox is pointless, so I mentioned some reasons that you ignored on purpose and you focused on remasters, and I forgot to mention free cloud saves as another reason and very important for multiplatform players (console, mobile, Cloud, PC). Anyway, the best-selling games on Xbox and PS are third-party, so exclusives are not the main reason either. It's only different with Nintendo because they have a smaller (in terms of expenses and risks) and sustainable ecosystem.
"with Microsoft being forced to increase the price by 25% whilst the quality of the games remains the same, thereby making it a less attractive product for consumers."
Sony has increased prices more than Microsoft. Nintendo releases full-price ports. You forgot to mention that Game Pass includes ABK games now. They also introduced a cheaper new tier with online services and certain games joining later than on the most expensive. If you seriously are trying to make Game Pass look like bad value, you have no idea what you are talking about.
About the number of consoles sold, which is the main reasoning in all your comments, you should take into account the other figures I mentioned (stated by Microsoft themselves) because Xbox is very profitable because of them. With the addition of ABK, Microsoft has become the second video game publisher after Tencent. As long as there is a console market, there will be an Xbox, because it makes money and because Microsoft makes hardware on top of software. Not just that, but Xbox runs Windows, PC games run on Windows and guess who owns Windows. Unless you make your own games and have a unique ecosystem like Nintendo, the number of consoles sold is not the metrics to consider for planning your business and ruling out the console market, look at Sony making Windows ports after limited sales on PS5. Does it mean that PS5(Pro) or PS6 will be their last console? No. Actually, we don't really know, but they will make consoles as long as there is a console market, like Microsoft and Nintendo.
It's completely fine to not like Xbox, but you can't be that biased and pretend that you are speaking the truth with such arrogance, ignoring half of the facts and speaking about the future as if you have travelled in time, while also speaking on behalf of all Xbox users when you are not even one.
@m0i You are correct about PS2. I would add PS1 that was super easy for it to play CDs and also pirated games. Wii U was a great concept, but it's funny how a mistake can ruin so much, like the introduction of Xbox One as a multimedia system and the introduction of Wii U by Iwata with GamePad in hand saying, "This is Wii U."
I agree about handheld PCs, not just Steam Deck, but Asus Rog Ally, Lenovo Legion and the rumoured Xbox handheld. They are important because PC gaming is evolving. I also wonder if Nintendo will eventually release games on other platforms, e.g., a store on Windows devices. I know that some people believe that it's impossible and I'm not saying that it will happen, but I think it will depend on the evolution of gaming habits and the fact that Nintendo uses hardware as part of the profit, but the alternative hardware is more appealing. Actually, if the rumoured specs of Switch 2 are true, it's obvious that they are influenced by the power that the competition introduced in the handheld market that Nintendo ruled this generation.
@vio "The original team that made all the N64 classics is Playtonic now."
Not really. The creator of Banjo-Kazooie still works at Rare, Grant Kirkhope and others became freelancers and most of Playtonic's staff is new. There are some at Rare, some at Playtonic and some elsewhere.
@m0i "it's still some trial and error when developing games, which in turn just adds to production cost."
A good example is Hellblade II, one of the first full games on Unreal Engine 5. It had a long development time and it's graphically really impressive, but it's shorter and more linear than the first game. The good thing about these projects is what the teams learn about development and technology that will be the new standard.
Sea of Thieves is not everyone's cup of tea and it's massively based on online interaction, but it's the best-looking Unreal Engine 4 game, in my opinion, and it's fun with friends. It also has excellent sound. Of course, I miss Rare's platformers; not just the 3D ones, but I consider the Donkey Kong Country trilogy the best 2D platforms ever along Super Mario World.
@m0i Yeah, by luck I was referring to the Wii U-Switch transition in the same generation, with not many new games, even after unifying the home and handheld divisions, and how games that already existed on Wii U found more success on another platform.
Nintendo has always been successful with handhelds, no doubt about it, but Switch was a hybrid and was based on the Wii U concept. Yes, it's also a handheld. Like you said, it was old tablet technology and that also kept development costs low compared to Microsoft and Sony. I remember DF expecting Switch to include the X2 chip instead of X1. Not just that, but it was downclocked to improve battery life.
The question is, will the successor of Switch be as successful as Switch? I think it's impossible, at least in terms of revenue, because Switch had so many benefits (lucky facts) attached to it, the cheap projects and the full-price ports included. The successor is not as weak, no more ports to re-sell and expectations are higher in 2024, not to mention the additional competition that are handheld PCs. Of course, as a player, I don't care about them being richer than rich, but the games they make. Actually, I loved Wii U, I supported it, and Switch disappointed me in many ways.
@PikminMarioKirby Xbox said that they hear us, but they also said that it depends on the studios. Rare has a new boss, but nobody knows what they'll do after Everwild. I think that at least faithful remakes should be made by Rare or any capable studio, like Crash Bandicoot N.sane Trilogy and others.
@Toastmaster All correct and necessary because of all the misinformation. Rare has always been quite independent and even published most of their games, including Diddy Kong Racing. Besides, Nintendo never owned Rare, they owned 49% of Rare, and they never wanted to own more.
@nocdaes The current boss of Rare looked down on Rare's old IPs that he did not oversee, years ago. He is now Head of Xbox Game Studios, a middleman between Spencer and Booty, so Rare will have a new boss and I think that's good news, if he did not appreciate Rare's legacy.
@Jalex_64 I disagree. On top of backwards compatibility that you did not mention as a reason to own an Xbox, the value of Xbox is a combination of the good things about PC and console, literally having free PC ports with the console version and free console remasters since Xbox One X. Financially, the only thing that matters to Microsoft (and the others) is the revenue, which is very high thanks to their premium subscription and software sales. They earn around $8B yearly just with subscriptions and they spend around $1B yearly just on third-party deals for Game Pass (revealed by Spencer in an interview). These figures don't even include software sales. The number of consoles sold is not important anymore, hence why Sony is making Windows ports. Nintendo was extremely lucky with the success of Switch (after Wii U) and their projects are relatively cheap, let alone full-price Wii U ports, so they don't need to worry about hardware or software sales like the other two, because of their expenses and revenue.
Regarding Tango, Tango had plans for Hi-Fi Rush 2, so they asked Microsoft if they could keep that IP and Microsoft agreed and only kept the other IPs, The Evil Within and Ghostwire Tokyo. They also kept the studio alive until a new buyer came. It's also worth mentioning that the founder and the main producers of Tango, including Mikami's successor, had left the studio before Microsoft decided to transfer its ownership.
@Wexter As you said, Nintendo didn't want to purchase Rare, so the Stamper Brothers looked for another buyer and that's where Microsoft comes. It's similar to ABK, that they were looking for buyers before Microsoft stepped in, and also similar to Mojang, whose owner posted on Facebook, "Who wants to buy Minecraft?" Bethesda literally said once that because of their huge projects it was not possible to have proper QA and they already had a good relationship with Microsoft before the acquisition. I think the relationship between Rare and Nintendo wasn't great because of the distance (it was the 90s), this factor has been mentioned in some interviews, and also because Rare was creative and independent, and I think Nintendo is obsessive, likes to control everything and own studios that follow Nintendo's templates, like Grezzo and Next Level, which are kind of the opposite of what Rare does. Just look at Conker.
@m0i Right. The future is multiplatform. Nintendo just had their luckiest generation yet, because after Wii U, they started a new era with a successful Switch, full-price Wii U ports and they managed to break records with weak hardware that means relatively cheap software projects, while topping the sales charts. However, we don't know what their future will be.
@Yoshi3 Right. Rare kept the Nintendo 64 alive game after game, and also reinvigorated SNES with Donkey Kong Country, right when the competition was rising.
Comments 4,363
Re: Nintendo Would Rather "Organically Expand The Organisation" Than Rely Solely On Acquisitions
@N00BiSH In terms of staff, not income or outcome.
Re: Nintendo Would Rather "Organically Expand The Organisation" Than Rely Solely On Acquisitions
Well, like a wise user said, Nintendo has become a skeleton company that barely develops any games, with most first-party games being outsourced. Sometimes they buy the studios if the results are satisfying, like Next Level Games. Sometimes they just hire them. They also have made an immeasurable amount of money this (actually, last, since Switch belongs to the last) generation with fully-priced Wii U ports and Switch hardware and accessories, with relatively low budgets and high prices.
Re: Rayman Creator Michel Ancel Confirms Involvement With New Ubisoft Project
@Bigmanfan So many people are accused of horrible things. He has denied the accusations and he is innocent until a sentence says otherwise.
@JohnnyMind "I'm so tired of people being cancelled because of accusations without follow-through in general, not just in his specific case..."
Me too! These people should imagine being popular and being cancelled before a court proves that the accusations are fair.
Re: Video: Digital Foundry's Technical Analysis Of Sonic X Shadow Generations
@8bit-Man He also said that it's "bad news for Switch" (video section headline), that "it sure feels a lot worse to play", that the last-gen versions are fine in comparison (someone here asked about the PS4 version and I replied with frame rate details) and that the frame pacing is bad. He also mentions the bad quality of the graphics and the low resolution in Shadow's Generations. The vast majority of what he says about the Switch version is negative.
@the_beaver I am good, don't worry. I'll try to explain once again because you don't understand what I said. The video says that the Switch version is a disappointment, "bad news for Switch", "it sure feels a lot worse to play" (comparing it to the last-gen versions), and that the frame rate pacing issues are frequent and affect the gameplay. There are nine versions of this game and he said that Switch is the worst. He said all that, but it's also evident in the footage. You don't need to play the game on nine different platforms to know that, that's why Digital Foundry exists to begin with. Like it or not, that's the truth, and I have nothing to do with it. Last but not least, this is not one of those cases you need a microscope to notice the differences like in other comparisons, e.g., Sonic Origins in 1080p or 2160p.
Re: Video: Digital Foundry's Technical Analysis Of Sonic X Shadow Generations
@8bit-Man I'm not twisting anything. I respectfully replied because you referred to other posters (me and others) with "I’m surprised to see so many complaints from tech snobs." I am sure that I am not the only one finding that comment jarring, considering the topic and the video. Digital Foundry literally said, "It sure feels a lot worse to play" comparing it to the last-gen versions, and "Bad news for Switch" as the headline for that video section. Some users here say that they find the Switch version fine and I'm happy for them, but that's not what you said. Again, it's weird that you are surprised to see "tech snobs" disappointed on a thread about a Digital Foundry analysis, when Digital Foundry are disappointed as well.
Re: Video: Digital Foundry's Technical Analysis Of Sonic X Shadow Generations
@8bit-Man What did you expect to read on a thread about Digital Foundry's analysis? This is useful information for many users, that is why Nintendo Life reports on it. Why does it bother you?
Re: Video: Digital Foundry's Technical Analysis Of Sonic X Shadow Generations
@DanijoEX-the-Pierrot The Xbox One (X) and PS4 (Pro) versions have Sonic Generations running at 60fps and Shadows Generations running at 30fps, if that helps. Both titles run at 60fps on Xbox Series S. The Switch version "sure feels a lot worse to play."
Re: Video: Digital Foundry's Technical Analysis Of Sonic X Shadow Generations
The Switch version is the worst by far: not just half the frame rate but there are quality and frame pacing issues galore.
Re: Nintendo Music's Next Batch Of Tracks Will Arrive Next Week
Nintendo Music appears 27 times on the front page today. 😂
Re: What Review Score Would You Give Sonic X Shadow Generations?
@Thomas96 I haven't played Shadow's campaign yet. I rate Sonic Generation 9 or 10 (played it on Series X), but you are right, the 2D sections aren't as great because of the physics and controls, so probably 9 because of them. They finally nailed physics and controls in Sonic Superstars, thanks to Christian Whitehead's Retro Engine 😅. I am looking forward to the next 2D and 3D entries, now that they got them both right. 👍
Re: Review: Sonic X Shadow Generations (Switch) - A Blistering Return To Form For Both Hedgehogs
@Mgalens I was also a kid when I played Sonic 3 & Knuckles for the first time, and it's my favourite Sonic game. Like you said, boss battles are a bit more complex than previously and the shields and different characters introduce a lot of variety in the game.
Re: So, Will You Be Listening To The New Mobile App Nintendo Music?
@kepsux Yeah, I can imagine Nintendo doing something like that. I don't know if this app is good or bad news. Nintendo is scary. Instead of putting their music on streaming platforms they create their own. What is worse, now they have another excuse to stalk fans and unofficial listeners. Next generation we'll be slaves in chains playing their games inside a factory and drinking McMario Coke instead of water.
Re: So, Will You Be Listening To The New Mobile App Nintendo Music?
Anybody knows what happens if you download music and after that your subscription expires? Can you still listen to the downloaded music?
Re: 'Nintendo Music' Is A New Mobile App Exclusive To Switch Online Members
Anybody knows what happens if you download music and after that your subscription expires? Can you still listen to the downloaded music?
Re: Review: Sonic X Shadow Generations (Switch) - A Blistering Return To Form For Both Hedgehogs
@Mgalens It's always nice having a notification from you. You are completely right. It's like some people have reached the conclusion that if people don't agree with them or like the same things, they are wrong. It could be because they have no real communication in their lives. It's also lack of empathy and respect.
Back to Sonic, I really enjoyed it on Series X and it was a pleasure for my senses as it got upgraded to 4K60FPS. It took me a while unlocking 100% of the game, so I'm not sure if I'd do the same, because it's more fun just rushing through the stages. In any case, I will get this new version just for Shadow's campaign.
I know that many people criticised Sonic Superstars (did you like it?), but I also enjoyed that one, except for the unnecessarily long boss battles. I hope we get a sequel, now that they finally got the physics right using Retro Engine and they know that boss battles should be short. I'm also looking forward to Sonic's next 3D game, considering how smooth the camera and controls in Sonic Frontiers are and that the level design for this new campaign was a success. It's like both 2D and 3D are finally fine.
Re: Reaction: With Xenoblade Chronicles X On Switch, The Wii U's Demise Is Complete
"Reaction: With Xenoblade Chronicles X On Switch, The Wii U's Demise Is Complete"
Pure sensationalism. If we compare both, Wii U still has backwards compatibility (Wii, GC), Virtual Console (N64, SNES and NES) and exclusive titles. Switch is not backwards compatible with any console and doesn't have Virtual Console nor any kind of ownership for retro games.
Re: Xenoblade Chronicles X Fans Are Once Again Discussing The Game's 'Censorship'
"It's generally regarded as somewhat inferior to the numbered series"
I enjoyed it much, much more than the first Xenoblade Chronicles. At the very least, the gameplay is a light-year ahead.
Re: Review: Sonic X Shadow Generations (Switch) - A Blistering Return To Form For Both Hedgehogs
@REAVERZINE You are entitled to your opinion in a comments section and, actually, it makes sense, although I've seen worse: "Naysayers won't change their mind", like suggesting that those that don't like a certain game are the opposite of intelligent, and many more conclusions that don't make any sense, which is why I don't take reviews very seriously these days.
Re: Review: Sonic X Shadow Generations (Switch) - A Blistering Return To Form For Both Hedgehogs
This is a nice review that covers everything. Although I disagree with the ridiculous censorship in Sonic Generations as an owner of the original Series X version in 4K60FPS, I'm happy to see that Shadow Generations turned out fantastic. You are not the only one saying so. That said, I prefer to play it on Xbox for obvious reasons.
Sonic Frontiers got a lot of things right, but it's true that it lacks that Sonic flavour in the huge hub world and enemies. Combining the improvements made in Sonic Frontiers, namely the camera and gameplay, and the new material made for Shadow Generations, the future of Sonic is bright, indeed!
Re: Sonic X Shadow Generations Surpasses One Million Sales In Opening Weekend
Okay Sega, so now fix the camera and remaster Sonic Heroes and Sonic Adventure 1 and 2.
Re: Best Super Mario Games Of All Time
@batmanbud2 Ha ha, that's nice, man. 😁
Re: Best Super Mario Games Of All Time
@gabrigoes Super Mario World is the best: acrobatics, freedom, tight controls, perfect physics, level design, fun, secrets... 😁
Re: Best Super Mario Games Of All Time
@batmanbud2 You can't expect everyone to agree with you, buddy.
Re: Video: Sonic X Shadow Generations Graphics Comparison (Switch, Xbox 360, PS5)
"The original release was 720p on Xbox 360, and the PlayStation 5 release runs at a smooth 60FPS at 2160p."
It then should be mentioned for clarification that the original version is 2160p and 60FPS on Series X, as will be the new Xbox version.
Re: Round Up: The Reviews Are In For Sonic X Shadow Generations
@Lightsiyd Definitely, I'm signing and sharing this. It could change everything and stop every gamer's worries.
Here's the website link as well:
https://www.stopkillinggames.com/
And I posted it in the forum:
https://www.nintendolife.com/forums/news/petition_for_avoiding_the_removal_of_video_games
Any EU citizen can sign and those who are not can share it. It is easy and fast.
Re: Round Up: The Reviews Are In For Sonic X Shadow Generations
@Lightsiyd Thank you. If a Sonic game is unnecessarily censored, they must expect these reactions. So many times, video game companies have backpedalled because of the reaction and, while some people might seem overreactive, many things are common sense and must be done to protect the consumers. We as consumers must demand what is reasonably fair.
Recent examples:
1) Loot boxes being regulated.
2) Sony removing the PS5 software upgrade fee (for a while, now it's back).
3) Microtransactions being removed from many games.
4) Microtransactions no longer pay-to-win in most cases.
5) Nintendo removing abusive and illegal terms from their contracts in EU and UK, e.g., those regarding the rights of consumers and digital pre-orders.
6) Nintendo expanding the guarantee of the joy-cons.
7) Google and Apple forced to allow other digital stores (in EU and UK).
8) Manufacturers forced to keep spare parts for longer.
What some people fail to see is where we would be if everyone was okay with everything. We must keep a balance as part of the society and not become slaves.
Re: Round Up: The Reviews Are In For Sonic X Shadow Generations
@27celsius What has that got to do with being okay with ridiculous censorship?
Re: Round Up: The Reviews Are In For Sonic X Shadow Generations
@27celsius I don't know. Wait and see. We are almost there.
@Samalik You know, we've gone backwards since the noughties, I think.
Re: Round Up: The Reviews Are In For Sonic X Shadow Generations
The problem is that if people are okay with a game being ridiculously censored, it will get worse each time. At this rate, the dialogues and cut scenes will be built by AI that checks all the tick boxes in advance. 😅
Re: Round Up: The Reviews Are In For Sonic X Shadow Generations
@Serpenterror Thanks for the video. Guess I will keep playing the Xbox 360 version in 4K60fps on Series X. What a shame they had to do this to a masterpiece when bringing it to other platforms.
Re: Round Up: The Reviews Are In For Sonic X Shadow Generations
80/100 for a Sonic game equals a 100/100 Nintendo or Sony game, so fantastic! 😂
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@Toastmaster I agree! I love Wii U and also New Nintendo 3DS (the smaller version). I made some drawings on Miiverse, the Gamepad was a lot of fun for messing around. I find my customised SNES Mini a joy to use, it's amazing how the SNES controller still is so good for 2D gaming. Switch, on the other hand, I haven't it enjoyed as much.
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@Toastmaster Wii U is versatile and the best Nintendo machine for retro gaming. It's natively compatible with Wii and GC, similar to 3DS being natively compatible with DS and GBA. Like you say, you can connect two HDDs or two USB memory sticks and the official Wii U or Switch adapter for GC controllers. It supports a lot of Nintendo controllers: Wii U, Wii, GC...
Tekken Tag Tournament 2 for Wii U is a title I have, my favourite character being Slim Bob. 😁
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@nebzila "Pretty funny considering their head of marketing told an audience recently that "nobody cares about Banjo Kazooie."
That was just what the Youtuber said for clicks. More here:
https://www.purexbox.com/news/2024/10/xbox-exec-dismisses-rumour-that-he-doesnt-care-about-banjo-kazooie
@electrolite77 You are right.
Re: Best Super Mario Games Of All Time
@NinChocolate New Super Mario Bros. U is the best in the New series, but New Super Mario Bros. 2 should be at the bottom. It actually is around there. They were developed by different teams. Obviously. It's the lowest possible quality in all senses... and also the first Nintendo retail game to be released digitally. It was marketed comparing it with Super Mario Bros. 3 on the eShop. Ouch.
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@Toastmaster I have that version of Need for Speed Most Wanted! It was well received, but I didn't know that it was that difficult to make. I also have the Armoured Edition of Batman Arkham City that I know has special features on Wii U, like the prototype of Breath of the Wild, until Nintendo decided to downgrade it because of Switch. Wii U is fascinating.
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@Toastmaster All true. Game Pass, Xbox Anywhere, Smart Delivery, free upgrades and time-saving Quick Resume. Another thing I can add is that Square Enix and Microsoft replaced the low-quality and highly compressed cutscenes of the original Xbox 360 version of the Final Fantasy XIII trilogy with the raw material, massively improving the quality of the cutscenes.
Also, as you have explained, Rare Replay is technically impossible on Switch or Switch 2 so, in this case, begging for a port is pointless.
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@Toastmaster They are not true fans if they haven't bought Rare Replay! You are right, it's not that Xbox One emulates Xbox 360, but that they managed to translate the original code so it could be played on a console with a totally different architecture and running Windows. Otherwise, it would have been impossible. It took years to get games running, some cases were very challenging and many were improved eventually in terms of performance and resolution, including Banjo-Kazooie Nuts & Bolts. Microsoft's engineers did an awesome job, and backwards compatibility is reason enough to own an Xbox One or Series X|S, plus all the reasons I discovered later: excellent and reliable hardware, comfy controller, generous services, huge catalogue... Basically, Rare Replay made me an Xbox fan.
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@Toastmaster " Rare Replay were the reason why i bought Xbox 9 years ago, and i also bought the Xbox One X at launch in 2017 so i could play them and other games in 4K/60."
Same here! I got Xbox One and Rare Replay at the same time. I can't understand how some people here haven't done the same. I have never regretted my decision and, like you, I've upgraded my Xbox since.
Re: Best Super Mario Games Of All Time
@ThainEshKelch I agree except for Super Mario Odyssey that I didn't like much. Answering your question, Super Mario Galaxy 1 and 2 are more action-oriented and linear than the previous 3D titles, and those that enjoy action, prefer the Galaxy games. Similarly, the 3D Land/World games are simpler and some prefer that, a 3D version of Super Mario Bros. 1. Super Mario Sunshine has a lot of challenge, exploration, real platforming, impressive bosses, great controls and beautiful locations and music, which is why it's my favourite in the 3D category, but some people feel frustrated or overwhelmed playing it and don't appreciate it as much.
Re: Best Super Mario Games Of All Time
I wholeheartedly agree with the community's number 1 (Super Mario Wold) and 2 (Super Mario Bros. 3). My number 3 is Super Mario Sunshine.
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@Kayloo Right! Our favourite video game characters, after all. 😊
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@m0i Right. Ubisoft doesn't do everything right (who does?), but when it released Immortals Fenyx Rising, some people said that it was a Breath of the Wild clone and made fun of it, but didn't play it. All games are inspired by others, Breath of the Wild included. Actually, Assassin's Creed is one of its sources... and Skyrim... and Monster Hunter... The problem is that, in this industry, some publishers are scrutinised and criticised harshly and others are given a permanent free pass. I have read reviews of great games with complaints like it doesn't innovate enough, but then the same reviewer gives 10/10 to games that are literally a copy-paste or a DLC semi-sequel. Like the youtubers you mention, that are looking for clicks or engagement. Sometimes, you can only try yourself or read user opinions for reliable feedback.
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@m0i Yes, I'm also happy to see more developers making smaller and more colourful games and I also think that Nintendo is currently in a great position and, although I don't agree with many things they have done lately, I can't wait to see what's coming from them in the next years.
For a while, it was like everybody but Nintendo wanted to make the next Fortnite (looking at Concorde now) and, generally speaking, online games full of microtransactions, because they thought that they would get richer that way (like Epic and others), but that changed, because the fact that something is successful, doesn't mean that the whole world is willing to play that and every clone indefinitely. It's logical, but logic seems to not apply to some financial reports.
I'm going to use an "offline" and third party example, Ubisoft. I like many things about Ubisoft, but not long ago, they stated that they were going to focus on Assassin's Creed, as if they were not focused on it enough. They neglected other IPs, but the last AC (Mirage) was smaller, trying to be more like the original game. They also released a fantastic Prince of Persia and, before that, Immortals Fenyx Rising, which I loved. The fact that they focused so much on AC's template for so long, was not beneficial in the long term and even affected the impressive Avatar (the best-looking game of the year according to DF) and Ubisoft's value as company. Another recent game I loved and doesn't follow modern templates is Capcom's Path of the Goddess.
So yeah, we need the variety, the big and small games. Quality and variety are the only things that can keep the industry healthy. It's funny when a random indie game becomes the best-selling game or the game of the year while a Fortnite clone fails.
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@Jalex_64 I just explained to you what you seemed to ignore. Most of your text here is either ambiguous or wrong, so I will just clarify a few things quickly, so we don't get into an endless loop that nobody wants.
"Even the fact you bring this up demonstrates a certain desperation on your part to justify owning your preferred platform."
Wrong. All platforms are valid options. I had all consoles last generation except Vita. I have been playing on Nintendo since SNES. It's the opposite, you are biased and ignore all the good things about Xbox and look down on it. This sentence of yours is actually quite desperate.
"The remasters are a nice extra but that’s rarely a deciding factor for consumers when choosing a new console."
That was just one of the many reasons to choose Xbox because you were talking as if you knew every gamer in the world, and you are wrong. You were trying to make it sound like Xbox is pointless, so I mentioned some reasons that you ignored on purpose and you focused on remasters, and I forgot to mention free cloud saves as another reason and very important for multiplatform players (console, mobile, Cloud, PC). Anyway, the best-selling games on Xbox and PS are third-party, so exclusives are not the main reason either. It's only different with Nintendo because they have a smaller (in terms of expenses and risks) and sustainable ecosystem.
"with Microsoft being forced to increase the price by 25% whilst the quality of the games remains the same, thereby making it a less attractive product for consumers."
Sony has increased prices more than Microsoft. Nintendo releases full-price ports. You forgot to mention that Game Pass includes ABK games now. They also introduced a cheaper new tier with online services and certain games joining later than on the most expensive. If you seriously are trying to make Game Pass look like bad value, you have no idea what you are talking about.
About the number of consoles sold, which is the main reasoning in all your comments, you should take into account the other figures I mentioned (stated by Microsoft themselves) because Xbox is very profitable because of them. With the addition of ABK, Microsoft has become the second video game publisher after Tencent. As long as there is a console market, there will be an Xbox, because it makes money and because Microsoft makes hardware on top of software. Not just that, but Xbox runs Windows, PC games run on Windows and guess who owns Windows. Unless you make your own games and have a unique ecosystem like Nintendo, the number of consoles sold is not the metrics to consider for planning your business and ruling out the console market, look at Sony making Windows ports after limited sales on PS5. Does it mean that PS5(Pro) or PS6 will be their last console? No. Actually, we don't really know, but they will make consoles as long as there is a console market, like Microsoft and Nintendo.
It's completely fine to not like Xbox, but you can't be that biased and pretend that you are speaking the truth with such arrogance, ignoring half of the facts and speaking about the future as if you have travelled in time, while also speaking on behalf of all Xbox users when you are not even one.
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@m0i You are correct about PS2. I would add PS1 that was super easy for it to play CDs and also pirated games. Wii U was a great concept, but it's funny how a mistake can ruin so much, like the introduction of Xbox One as a multimedia system and the introduction of Wii U by Iwata with GamePad in hand saying, "This is Wii U."
I agree about handheld PCs, not just Steam Deck, but Asus Rog Ally, Lenovo Legion and the rumoured Xbox handheld. They are important because PC gaming is evolving. I also wonder if Nintendo will eventually release games on other platforms, e.g., a store on Windows devices. I know that some people believe that it's impossible and I'm not saying that it will happen, but I think it will depend on the evolution of gaming habits and the fact that Nintendo uses hardware as part of the profit, but the alternative hardware is more appealing. Actually, if the rumoured specs of Switch 2 are true, it's obvious that they are influenced by the power that the competition introduced in the handheld market that Nintendo ruled this generation.
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@vio "The original team that made all the N64 classics is Playtonic now."
Not really. The creator of Banjo-Kazooie still works at Rare, Grant Kirkhope and others became freelancers and most of Playtonic's staff is new. There are some at Rare, some at Playtonic and some elsewhere.
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@m0i "it's still some trial and error when developing games, which in turn just adds to production cost."
A good example is Hellblade II, one of the first full games on Unreal Engine 5. It had a long development time and it's graphically really impressive, but it's shorter and more linear than the first game. The good thing about these projects is what the teams learn about development and technology that will be the new standard.
Sea of Thieves is not everyone's cup of tea and it's massively based on online interaction, but it's the best-looking Unreal Engine 4 game, in my opinion, and it's fun with friends. It also has excellent sound. Of course, I miss Rare's platformers; not just the 3D ones, but I consider the Donkey Kong Country trilogy the best 2D platforms ever along Super Mario World.
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@m0i Yeah, by luck I was referring to the Wii U-Switch transition in the same generation, with not many new games, even after unifying the home and handheld divisions, and how games that already existed on Wii U found more success on another platform.
Nintendo has always been successful with handhelds, no doubt about it, but Switch was a hybrid and was based on the Wii U concept. Yes, it's also a handheld. Like you said, it was old tablet technology and that also kept development costs low compared to Microsoft and Sony. I remember DF expecting Switch to include the X2 chip instead of X1. Not just that, but it was downclocked to improve battery life.
The question is, will the successor of Switch be as successful as Switch? I think it's impossible, at least in terms of revenue, because Switch had so many benefits (lucky facts) attached to it, the cheap projects and the full-price ports included. The successor is not as weak, no more ports to re-sell and expectations are higher in 2024, not to mention the additional competition that are handheld PCs. Of course, as a player, I don't care about them being richer than rich, but the games they make. Actually, I loved Wii U, I supported it, and Switch disappointed me in many ways.
@PikminMarioKirby Xbox said that they hear us, but they also said that it depends on the studios. Rare has a new boss, but nobody knows what they'll do after Everwild. I think that at least faithful remakes should be made by Rare or any capable studio, like Crash Bandicoot N.sane Trilogy and others.
Re: Xbox Studio Rare Excited About The Return Of Banjo-Tooie Next Week
@quinnyboy58 Viva Piñata is a masterpiece.
@Toastmaster All correct and necessary because of all the misinformation. Rare has always been quite independent and even published most of their games, including Diddy Kong Racing. Besides, Nintendo never owned Rare, they owned 49% of Rare, and they never wanted to own more.
@nocdaes The current boss of Rare looked down on Rare's old IPs that he did not oversee, years ago. He is now Head of Xbox Game Studios, a middleman between Spencer and Booty, so Rare will have a new boss and I think that's good news, if he did not appreciate Rare's legacy.
@Jalex_64 I disagree. On top of backwards compatibility that you did not mention as a reason to own an Xbox, the value of Xbox is a combination of the good things about PC and console, literally having free PC ports with the console version and free console remasters since Xbox One X. Financially, the only thing that matters to Microsoft (and the others) is the revenue, which is very high thanks to their premium subscription and software sales. They earn around $8B yearly just with subscriptions and they spend around $1B yearly just on third-party deals for Game Pass (revealed by Spencer in an interview). These figures don't even include software sales. The number of consoles sold is not important anymore, hence why Sony is making Windows ports. Nintendo was extremely lucky with the success of Switch (after Wii U) and their projects are relatively cheap, let alone full-price Wii U ports, so they don't need to worry about hardware or software sales like the other two, because of their expenses and revenue.
Regarding Tango, Tango had plans for Hi-Fi Rush 2, so they asked Microsoft if they could keep that IP and Microsoft agreed and only kept the other IPs, The Evil Within and Ghostwire Tokyo. They also kept the studio alive until a new buyer came. It's also worth mentioning that the founder and the main producers of Tango, including Mikami's successor, had left the studio before Microsoft decided to transfer its ownership.
@Wexter As you said, Nintendo didn't want to purchase Rare, so the Stamper Brothers looked for another buyer and that's where Microsoft comes. It's similar to ABK, that they were looking for buyers before Microsoft stepped in, and also similar to Mojang, whose owner posted on Facebook, "Who wants to buy Minecraft?" Bethesda literally said once that because of their huge projects it was not possible to have proper QA and they already had a good relationship with Microsoft before the acquisition. I think the relationship between Rare and Nintendo wasn't great because of the distance (it was the 90s), this factor has been mentioned in some interviews, and also because Rare was creative and independent, and I think Nintendo is obsessive, likes to control everything and own studios that follow Nintendo's templates, like Grezzo and Next Level, which are kind of the opposite of what Rare does. Just look at Conker.
@m0i Right. The future is multiplatform. Nintendo just had their luckiest generation yet, because after Wii U, they started a new era with a successful Switch, full-price Wii U ports and they managed to break records with weak hardware that means relatively cheap software projects, while topping the sales charts. However, we don't know what their future will be.
@Yoshi3 Right. Rare kept the Nintendo 64 alive game after game, and also reinvigorated SNES with Donkey Kong Country, right when the competition was rising.