@Qwiff I was just saying this! A catalogue of new games to purchase alongside the existing classics. Or just obtaining the rights to put them on there - seems like a win win for both Nintendo and the developers.
@JohnnyMind ah - great to hear from a backer! There’s clearly a lot of love being put into the game, I’ll be excited to see people’s thoughts on it. It was fascinating talking to folks all doing the same thing but in very different ways. Feels like a real moment for home brew stuff. Glad you enjoyed the piece!
@Jhena I had the pleasure of playing all the games too - they’re fantastic and well worth seeking out! Physical copies exist but they’re very reasonably priced experiences if you choose digital only.
@Bearzilla823 I’d love to see it as an option for their online service, a place to buy new games for their existing consoles - it could live in a separate section for people to curate their own collections.
@Danrenfroe2016 I’m currently investigating other means of accessing the games that people have mentioned here. There’s a really supportive community for the system - it’s something people definitely want to engage with and probably wish Nintendo would engage with a little more too.
@Maulbert I didn’t take issue with anything! It’s a fairly lighthearted piece, all I really wanted to do was share my experience with others and engage with people on the topic - which has been very enjoyable.
@Antraxx777 some are absurd. And yes, I was a staunch 'crank up' user of 3DS - why have it otherwise? I found three quarters up was the sweet spot for me.
@sleepinglion I think it feels like they're done with it. Big shame but would love to be proven wrong. I mean, the original super mario bros with a 3d depth seems like a no brainer - or at least the three NES games. On this occasion Sega largely did what Nintendidn't.
@mattesdude I think the reporting of that hamstrung it from the start, it was dismissed because it was assumed that everybody would suffer the same effects. And you're right about the games - though they never had the chance to grow as developers got more accustomed to the device the games it did produce certainly stand shoulder to shoulder with other titles of the time.
@SuntannedDuck2 the actual experience something generates is key to anything being successful, I think. You're right, if something is fun it doesn't matter how basic or complicated it is.
@Maulbert I think this echoes what I said in the conclusion, no? It's definitely not for everyone, but if you're a fan of Nintendo when they get experimental and a bit weird I do think it's an experience worth seeking. I know that's not strictly within the parameters of the title if you want to be literal about it, but nobody NEEDS to - of course. Nobody needs to do anything they don't want to. Personally, when I first saw it I did think - I need to try this. As a fan of Nintendo I felt the need to try out this failure they produced to sate my curiosity, and I ended up enjoying it. And I think others share that feeling too.
@Danrenfroe2016 Yeah - it's kind of a dealbreaker really, isn't it? If you don't enjoy the mechanic then it's just not an experience you'll ever get on with. Think you'll ever try the games elsewhere?
So happy this in on here! The fact that Jack Frost is covered up is heinous and his nipples are nightmare fuel but it's just much more exciting than the Japanese one, even if it does show the characters and the game's concept faithfully. If they were a bit bigger and bolder I'd go for it but against my expectations going in the US pips it for me. It's so bad it's good.
@KingMike I would love for someone to get to grips with Red Alarm and upscale it in a way that increases the depth of field and reduces its pop in. It feels like there's something good in there - it's just buried under technical limitations. Too obscure to ever happen though I would imagine. I'm just hoping I find a Nintendo World Championship gold cartridge in a charity shop one day so I can retire like a king.
@Atomic77 Same, I love the experiences their games bring. VB isn't for everyone and only you know what makes you a fan of something, of course. If you ever get the chance to try one though - do take it. It's an interesting experience.
@sleepinglion I do love 3D urban champion, but you're right the output of titles like that certainly was lacking. It feels like twice they released 3D systems and both times never really had total faith in the concept (though obviously WILDLY different in terms of success and output). A shame as I think 3D is brilliant when it's done properly. Think we'll ever get one again?
@GalacticLad Jackbros' insane price is 100% down to it's rarity as opposed to it's quality. I enjoy it but it's not the best experience on the system. I think you've hit the nail on the head mentioning the difference between a 'worthy' and 'unique' experience. It's not a thing that demands attention but is fascinating enough to warrant attention when it's given. Also - just had a listen to the course theme for golf over on youtube. Bonkers that whole soundtracks for the VB are on there. I assume you're referring to the course theme? It's brilliant! Gentle but persistent beat, lilting melody that travels unexpectedly so it's never too repetitive. I can certainly see someone getting into a sort of zen state while playing with that. Will look at picking the title up.
@Ogre84 Oh no! That's such a shame. 20 bucks, wow. I can't imagine ever parting with mine, but I was lucky to get it at a time before the internet pushed prices for things like this up so much. Grab it if you can, particularly if it piqued your interest as a kid. Maybe you'll hit the jackpot as a car boot sale one day. It does happen.
@somnambulance A very interesting question indeed. I suppose the Wii could've very easily been a similar story - but perhaps they learned their lesson from the VB and took the time to get it right. They had to, really. And they packed in the perfect title for it too - as opposed to an okay one. The system would've been fantastic for a Metroidvania - opening up new areas in the foreground and background. Real head games. And the limited aesthetic would've served that sense of isolation the titles conjure up too. Gah - it's not fair! Who knows - maybe some brilliant mind is cooking up a homebrew title as we speak.
@gsilver The depth mechanic certainly adds some magic to Wario as it's utilised well and the sprite work is fantastic, without that it is a fairly standard game that sits alongside the series. Red Alarm had so much potential but the pop in is murder as it's in direct opposition to the concept of an open field to explore. I might tackle it one day but it's limits do test my patience.
@Croctopus Completely, totally baffling. Novelty - yes. Bland, definitely not. There's not really anything else like it. Which probably speaks volumes, but you get my point. For me it's weird and interesting enough to warrant seeking out a play on it if you have the means. Such a shame you didn't get the opportunity when there was one around. And of course it doesn't dictate whether you're a fan or not! I think it's one for fans of weird Nintendo - of which I am a card carrying member.
@smolsauce But is it worth it if there's no 3D? I think it's a shame not to have that element to the games as it takes away from what makes them special.
@Nintendo_Thumb It's definitely positive that there are ways to experience it in ways akin to the hardware itself these days, even if it is a bit ethically grey - as I mentioned. I'd argue if you're going to give the games a go then 3D is a must, because it's so much a part of the experience.
@somnambulance I’d definitely buy a classic if they ever did it (zero chance I fear), such a shame more people can’t give it that go just to experience it. And I think what you say about a demo for the system is spot on - it barely got a chance for developers to properly get to grips with it and find out what it was really capable of. I sometimes wonder what an earth a Zelda, Metroid or Kirby would’ve been like. Or Pokémon! Throwing that ball into the distance would’ve been ace. We can only dream.
@LikelySatan I definitely prefer the experience with the 3D. But if trying one out really isn’t an option wario land is the one I’d say to definitely play through at least once.
@GalacticLad funny - the experience has always stayed with me. You’re right that you don’t need to feel left out but I do also think it’s worth trying at least once if you have the means.
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Re: Feature: Meet Four Developers Making Brand-New Game Boy Titles In 2024
@Qwiff I was just saying this! A catalogue of new games to purchase alongside the existing classics. Or just obtaining the rights to put them on there - seems like a win win for both Nintendo and the developers.
Re: Feature: Meet Four Developers Making Brand-New Game Boy Titles In 2024
@RetroBox really glad you enjoyed it! Each game really is a labour of love, and they’re fantastic to boot. Full, enjoyable gameboy experiences.
Re: Feature: Meet Four Developers Making Brand-New Game Boy Titles In 2024
@JohnnyMind ah - great to hear from a backer! There’s clearly a lot of love being put into the game, I’ll be excited to see people’s thoughts on it. It was fascinating talking to folks all doing the same thing but in very different ways. Feels like a real moment for home brew stuff. Glad you enjoyed the piece!
Re: Feature: Meet Four Developers Making Brand-New Game Boy Titles In 2024
@Jhena I had the pleasure of playing all the games too - they’re fantastic and well worth seeking out! Physical copies exist but they’re very reasonably priced experiences if you choose digital only.
Re: Feature: Meet Four Developers Making Brand-New Game Boy Titles In 2024
@Bearzilla823 I’d love to see it as an option for their online service, a place to buy new games for their existing consoles - it could live in a separate section for people to curate their own collections.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Danrenfroe2016 I’m currently investigating other means of accessing the games that people have mentioned here. There’s a really supportive community for the system - it’s something people definitely want to engage with and probably wish Nintendo would engage with a little more too.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Maulbert I didn’t take issue with anything! It’s a fairly lighthearted piece, all I really wanted to do was share my experience with others and engage with people on the topic - which has been very enjoyable.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Asaki that’s not bad!
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Rozetta my bad!
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@sleepinglion yes! If you like golden axe check out the best beat em ups list I did over on time extension. Love that game.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@JohnnyMind Or even just pokemon home?! Actually why on earth is that not a thing??
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Antraxx777 some are absurd. And yes, I was a staunch 'crank up' user of 3DS - why have it otherwise? I found three quarters up was the sweet spot for me.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@sleepinglion I think it feels like they're done with it. Big shame but would love to be proven wrong.
I mean, the original super mario bros with a 3d depth seems like a no brainer - or at least the three NES games. On this occasion Sega largely did what Nintendidn't.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@mattesdude I think the reporting of that hamstrung it from the start, it was dismissed because it was assumed that everybody would suffer the same effects. And you're right about the games - though they never had the chance to grow as developers got more accustomed to the device the games it did produce certainly stand shoulder to shoulder with other titles of the time.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Julie-Sued Do give it a play if you can, even if it has to be 2D. If you enjoy the series you'll enjoy the game - it's well built.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@SuntannedDuck2 the actual experience something generates is key to anything being successful, I think. You're right, if something is fun it doesn't matter how basic or complicated it is.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Maulbert I think this echoes what I said in the conclusion, no? It's definitely not for everyone, but if you're a fan of Nintendo when they get experimental and a bit weird I do think it's an experience worth seeking. I know that's not strictly within the parameters of the title if you want to be literal about it, but nobody NEEDS to - of course. Nobody needs to do anything they don't want to. Personally, when I first saw it I did think - I need to try this. As a fan of Nintendo I felt the need to try out this failure they produced to sate my curiosity, and I ended up enjoying it. And I think others share that feeling too.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@smolsauce I won't argue that it's a lot of fun - and stands up well alongside other series entries. Nice to see someone so passionate about the game!
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Danrenfroe2016 Yeah - it's kind of a dealbreaker really, isn't it? If you don't enjoy the mechanic then it's just not an experience you'll ever get on with. Think you'll ever try the games elsewhere?
Re: Poll: Box Art Brawl - Duel: Jack Bros. (Virtual Boy)
So happy this in on here! The fact that Jack Frost is covered up is heinous and his nipples are nightmare fuel but it's just much more exciting than the Japanese one, even if it does show the characters and the game's concept faithfully. If they were a bit bigger and bolder I'd go for it but against my expectations going in the US pips it for me. It's so bad it's good.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@KingMike I would love for someone to get to grips with Red Alarm and upscale it in a way that increases the depth of field and reduces its pop in. It feels like there's something good in there - it's just buried under technical limitations. Too obscure to ever happen though I would imagine.
I'm just hoping I find a Nintendo World Championship gold cartridge in a charity shop one day so I can retire like a king.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Atomic77 Same, I love the experiences their games bring. VB isn't for everyone and only you know what makes you a fan of something, of course. If you ever get the chance to try one though - do take it. It's an interesting experience.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Ogre84 3D BROTHERHOOD UNITE.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@SoIDecidedTo 3D is utter magic when it's done well. That starfox story in the article is true - such a vivid memory of mine.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Moshugan I think a lot of people would. Question though - would you want the experience in the original black and red or a full colour remake?
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@JohnnyMind Satellaview and transfer pak are big wishes for me. Seems like it must be possible with both gameboy and 64 living within that ecosystem.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@sleepinglion I do love 3D urban champion, but you're right the output of titles like that certainly was lacking. It feels like twice they released 3D systems and both times never really had total faith in the concept (though obviously WILDLY different in terms of success and output). A shame as I think 3D is brilliant when it's done properly. Think we'll ever get one again?
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@electrolite77 Leaning into it for ages is rough on the old back. Find it so odd that they didn't just create a head mount.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@GalacticLad Jackbros' insane price is 100% down to it's rarity as opposed to it's quality. I enjoy it but it's not the best experience on the system. I think you've hit the nail on the head mentioning the difference between a 'worthy' and 'unique' experience. It's not a thing that demands attention but is fascinating enough to warrant attention when it's given.
Also - just had a listen to the course theme for golf over on youtube. Bonkers that whole soundtracks for the VB are on there. I assume you're referring to the course theme? It's brilliant! Gentle but persistent beat, lilting melody that travels unexpectedly so it's never too repetitive. I can certainly see someone getting into a sort of zen state while playing with that. Will look at picking the title up.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Ogre84 Oh no! That's such a shame. 20 bucks, wow. I can't imagine ever parting with mine, but I was lucky to get it at a time before the internet pushed prices for things like this up so much. Grab it if you can, particularly if it piqued your interest as a kid. Maybe you'll hit the jackpot as a car boot sale one day. It does happen.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@somnambulance A very interesting question indeed. I suppose the Wii could've very easily been a similar story - but perhaps they learned their lesson from the VB and took the time to get it right. They had to, really. And they packed in the perfect title for it too - as opposed to an okay one.
The system would've been fantastic for a Metroidvania - opening up new areas in the foreground and background. Real head games. And the limited aesthetic would've served that sense of isolation the titles conjure up too. Gah - it's not fair! Who knows - maybe some brilliant mind is cooking up a homebrew title as we speak.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@gsilver The depth mechanic certainly adds some magic to Wario as it's utilised well and the sprite work is fantastic, without that it is a fairly standard game that sits alongside the series. Red Alarm had so much potential but the pop in is murder as it's in direct opposition to the concept of an open field to explore. I might tackle it one day but it's limits do test my patience.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@EvilSilentFrame Certainly a miss - but I do love it. Did you get the pokemon mini? Another super weird console - if a little more standard.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Roam85 Excellent work.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@westman98 Probably says a lot that I enjoy how terrible that special is.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Croctopus Completely, totally baffling.
Novelty - yes. Bland, definitely not. There's not really anything else like it. Which probably speaks volumes, but you get my point. For me it's weird and interesting enough to warrant seeking out a play on it if you have the means. Such a shame you didn't get the opportunity when there was one around. And of course it doesn't dictate whether you're a fan or not! I think it's one for fans of weird Nintendo - of which I am a card carrying member.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@smolsauce But is it worth it if there's no 3D? I think it's a shame not to have that element to the games as it takes away from what makes them special.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Nintendo_Thumb It's definitely positive that there are ways to experience it in ways akin to the hardware itself these days, even if it is a bit ethically grey - as I mentioned. I'd argue if you're going to give the games a go then 3D is a must, because it's so much a part of the experience.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Maulbert Have you tried it? It's certainly a different experience, one I think any fan of weird tech should try if they can.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@LikelySatan Wario is always correct, non?
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Danrenfroe2016 Never had a chance to try it over here - just had to take the plunge. Do you remember what game you tried out?
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Bearzilla823 oof - that one’s pretty light on the depth mechanic too. Such a shame as it’s a fun game once it gets going.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@somnambulance I’d definitely buy a classic if they ever did it (zero chance I fear), such a shame more people can’t give it that go just to experience it. And I think what you say about a demo for the system is spot on - it barely got a chance for developers to properly get to grips with it and find out what it was really capable of. I sometimes wonder what an earth a Zelda, Metroid or Kirby would’ve been like. Or Pokémon! Throwing that ball into the distance would’ve been ace. We can only dream.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@LikelySatan I definitely prefer the experience with the 3D. But if trying one out really isn’t an option wario land is the one I’d say to definitely play through at least once.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@AStupidID can you imagine? With labo vr 3D an option 🤌
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@OrtadragoonX 😂
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@GalacticLad funny - the experience has always stayed with me. You’re right that you don’t need to feel left out but I do also think it’s worth trying at least once if you have the means.
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@nocdaes the gift that keeps on giving. Though I must stress I’m no financial advisor 😅
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@DannyBoi I doubt I’m the first person to have this thought. But what’s the point of life if you don’t engage with people about things you enjoy?
Re: Talking Point: As A Nintendo Fan, Do You Really Need To Play The Virtual Boy?
@Asaki teleroboxer is a decent bet and a good game on the system too.