We will miss you, 3DS eShop. Looks like the only thing we can do other than Bank and redownloads are updates still being live, so at least there is that.
My last game purchase: Kid Icarus Uprising, which I used to have as a physical copy, but lately I wanted to play it more than any of the other games I could swing the money for. Firing it up again, I got back to the feels for the game, even though I can still never really find the most comfortable way to play it.
I already picked up everything else I could want beforehand over the years (like all the Zelda content, the Pushmo Trilogy, Etrian Odyssey, Persona Q, the SMT games, Level 5's Guild games, all of Phoenix Wright) and dug in here and there for last-minute quickies that I knew were probably not going to be on Switch but I wanted to try (like Dr. Mario: Miracle Cure).
@CurryPowderKeg79 It will be a while even if a port comes out, as the Etrian Odyssey-based series still use the touch screen as an essential part of the experience. ATLUS will figure out some way to put the EO series on Switch, probably by having a map / main split screen, but the write-in mapping feature will definitely be missed when the time comes.
One of the biggest reasons to hold on to 3DS is if you started from the beginning and built up a large library of games for it. If you started off buying up all the classics and a lot of the exclusive games for it, it's not easy to just dump all of that and re-buy everything just because it is on Switch now. You already paid for these titles, why re-buy them when the system they are on is still operable?
Also, the exclusive games are valuable to those collecting for certain series, like Shin Megami Tensei--SMT IV, Strange Journey, Devil Survivor, and Demon Summoner are all largely exclusive to (or are great remakes for) the 3DS platform. If you are seeking to build a collection for SMT, Zelda, Mario, Pokemon, etc. a 3DS is still a necessity for these kinds of collectors, old and new.
Finally, 3DS is still something that can be carried around your pocket easily, unlike the Switch and its need for a purse or bag to carry it in. If you still have that long train / bus ride to look forward to and want to conserve your smartphone's battery for a long work day ahead, the 3DS is still the better alternative for these kinds of travel-game experiences.
Sure, I will probably get a Switch at some point, but will I be eager to dump the 3DS into a dust bin, never to be played again? Nope, it sits right next to my PSP as two great classic gaming repositories I will never put down.
It's really not time for the 3DS to be up yet. It can still do games and game styles that no other system can do the same way, even Switch. 3DS still does what Switch and Smartphone/Tablets cannot do: Be both, without interference from either. Also, the New 2DS/3DS is only 4 years old, has upgraded and expanded technology from the original, and potential that has not been fully explored. Then there is a huge game library still out there with games that have been exclusive to the system or worthy of remake (like the Zeldas). Finally, with a good handful of programming software out there like RPG Maker Fes and SmileBASIC / Petit Computer, creative people with the time have all the tools to make their own 3DS creations come alive.
There is just so many reasons why 3DS remains a great system, and why die-hard fans will stay in with the system and continue to explore what it has to offer.
Hyrule Warriors Legends for me, thanks! Just the sale I was waiting for, as that makes the entire game with all DLC cost less than it currently retails without DLC, and at least $25 less combined than the Switch "Definitive Edition", which probably won't see a similar markdown for a very long time.
First, WarioWare for Switch will most likely be out, and made to support the Switch and its various techniques for control. As already said, WarioWare Gold was made for the DS/3DS line, and this 3DS fan happens to like it (and continues to play it on and off since purchasing it on launch day).
Also, when I decide to give up 3DS, or get a Switch, or maybe even a PS4 or an XBox, that's actually my decision to make and not yours to influence or pressure. If you like the Switch, fine, that's your choice and I have nothing against it, since I am leaning that way. My choice right this moment is to stick with the 3DS and the backlog of great games I still have to play, including more WarioWare (and maybe even some Luigi's Mansion).
tl;dr "If you can't say somethin' nice ... don't say nothin' at all." - Thumper
As a die-hard fan of the series, of course I bought a Physical Copy right on release day. I still play through it to complete missions (and it is also good training for some of the earlier microgames I never got to complete). I do not regret buying it.
P.S. Please, everyone, enough with the negativity and the "3DS Must Die!" nonsense. If you have moved on to Switch, good for you. I just do not agree with why people have to be so hateful about it.
Just picked it up today and enjoying every minute of it. I like that the old puzzles were given a needed facelift and all of the extras look like they are well worth the time to invest in playing the microgames to their fullest to get them all.
I just wish this reviewer could find something other than "3DS origins" as a reason to put this game down. This should NEVER be used as a summary reason to put a stigma on a game. -_-;
If done right, this would be a great idea! I think side-scrolling Zeldas given another chance would be a nice change of pace for the series, and Inti Creates have proven they can do some great side-scrollers.
@Smigit Look up the "Legend of Zelda (April Fool's Day) Trailer" on IGN's YT.
Actually, everyone should review (or re-review) how IGN and Rainfall Films actually proved that the concept really can work, especially with Link as a silent protagonist. Although, the "Tron Lines" this director mentioned might not work out for a title usually steeped in medieval fantasy, especially after seeing the aforementioned trailer.
Used to connect to it every day when it was initially released, but then most of my social contacts got really bored with it. The only part I really liked were the costumes and the photo features: I eventually picked up the Black Zelda 8-Bit shirt so I could take a meta-picture with me in my own shirt, for example.
It had a great idea, but sadly just failed to truly ignite into something really big. Do I think this is the fault of the aging Mii concept, however? No, not really. Miis still have some relevance and make good digital avatars, but we are still waiting on Nintendo's Switch Online options to see if they stick with it or completely toss it asides.
Actually, where I see the project actually taking off is in the controller ideas. After all, based on what we saw in the Demo, there will be Steering Wheels, Flight Stick, and Pedals. Think what other developers could do if they could find a way to use Labo controllers in their flight sims or driving games? I see the potential for so much more with this project beyond what is expected. Sure, a lot of it looks like tools, but cheap and useful controller peripherals? That would be even more awesome!
You have to understand the road from the beginning to now has seen broad spectrum change in the entire medium of Japanese entertainment. These days, the fandom of Pokemon at its beginning to the Mega Evolution era is basically comparing the Neon Genesis Evangelion television series to the Rebuild of Evangelion movie franchise: Similar themes and beats (at least, at the beginning), but vastly diverging into different territory rather than reinventing the wheel. There was already critical staleness setting in since the HeartGold/SoulSilver release, so obviously Game Freak had to infuse new ideas as they went or risk having fans eventually burn out from each one just being "yet another Pokemon game". I like that they continue to try out different things as they progress, and anyone who has not tried Ultra Sun / Moon just because they expect "more of the same" will be pleasantly surprised at the little tweaks and differences that truly make this one to at least rent or try out on a friend's copy before you judge it not worth playing again.
I am glad to see LOTDW get yet another game on the 3DS.
On the controversy, if you do not want to play on the 3DS, then that is your choice. Those of us who still have and actively play 3DS hardware (especially the barely 3-year-old New 3DS hardware) still enjoy seeing new games pop up now and again. After 6 years and well over 69 million units confirmed sold combined across all family lines, it is still a viable software platform. Sure, it's days are numbered, but please stop trying to shovel dirt on top of it — it will remain one of the most significant (and wanted) legacy platforms for years to come.
I really like Inti Creates games overall, but they usually are at their best as a second-party developer. Mega Man Zero and ZX still remain my all-time favorites of theirs, at least until this one came along. So far, everything looks well-crafted — controls are much nicer, gameplay is pretty much the same except for Jason's expanded gun options — that alone eases a lot of the unforgiving challenge of the original BM. Clever use of save points instead of lives also eliminates a lot of the frustration of the original — no more Game Over restarts. If you have any interest in Blaster Master or good retro-style action shooters, you should not hesitate to buy this game.
Just got Blaster Master Zero for 3DS. As a fan of the original, I was eager to try out the same game with all-new controls and gameplay, and I so far really like it.
Plenty good sales on both, but Wii U discounts look the more tempting. Still, not a lot here for me, considering I have no Wii U and most of the 3DS games on the list already.
Can't wait for this one to release. Still, why they never added Apollo Justice: AA to the Ace Attorney Trilogy remake is kinda odd — the Ace Attorney Quadrilogy has a better ring to it.
A company that has a very popular IP, wants to control that IP with heavy-handed tactics, and even sent their lawyers out to shut down fan websites and projects to stop that IP from getting beyond their control. Sound familiar? It should, but I'm not talking about Nintendo in this sentence. This is actually the actions of another company, TSR Inc. The IP, of course, was Dungeons & Dragons.
"Fanaticism consists in redoubling your efforts when you have forgotten your aim." - George Santayana, The Life of Reason
@Hikingguy I agree with you, this review is a bit skewed against old-school RPGs. I was similarly disappointed at Morgan Sleeper's review of Justice Chronicles for the same reasons, as he also mentions that aspects of that game give off "an unfortunate RPG Maker vibe".
I would rather read a review that takes out the apparent skew towards RPG Maker games being seen as a "negative", considering that many games made with RPG Maker actually have gotten some high praise (like the aforementioned Corpse Party), and it's only a tool for creating games: it's what a person does with that tool that is important, not the tool itself.
I still wonder why it needs another remake. The cutscene-heavy PS1 & 3DS versions were more than enough. I'd rather they talk about a sequel than yet another remake of a remake.
I think it's still a good application for learning a bit more about friends (and their friends) and MiiFoto is the most fun part about it, but it really needs more minigames beyond Miitomo Drop.
btw, it's easy what they could do to improve it: Just add Nintendo Badge Arcade as a section in Miitomo and incorporate digital badge trading. Even though it sounds like a bit of work, this one idea could give both Miitomo and Badge Arcade fans lots of incentive to use it.
Surprised no one here yet mentioned interest in New Style Boutique (or Style Savvy: Trendsetters here in the US). It's actually quite a good game, with a lot of fashion choices and some really addictive elements. If you get a chance, I highly recommend trying out the demo and see for yourself.
I was an original arcade & pinball gamer way back when. My folks usually brought me to Chuck E. Cheese parties, and there were quite a few machines in there I was really glued to at the time, mostly the unusual machines (like the Tron arcade games and Joust 2). In college, the break room had a small arcade with Arkanoid, Centipede, and a High Speed: Getaway II pinball stuck in the corner, so guess where I spent most of my lunch time?
I really miss the arcade experience overall. Most of the arcades I frequented became dominated by prize machines over cabinets--while I like claw games, IMHO it's just no longer the same experience as Mitch described. I wish there was a Dave & Busters around here.
Still have the original game, and the sequel. My only real gripe was the reliance on pen control for most everything and the DS touchscreen was hard to draw concise lines on. With the much larger Gamepad to play on, though, Wii U definitely fixes this limitation, which means the game might actually be more fun to play.
I'm probably going with Moon as my main game, but I want to see a little bit more before I make a decision on that.
I would definitely choose Rowlet as a starter, as the dual type usually gives nice early advantage and as a Zelda fan, I'm happy to get what is potentially going to be Kaepora Gaebora in a Pokemon game. ^_^
Definitely like the islands feel, as well — it would be nice if you could "Sail" in 3D a la the Soar option in ORAS. Can't wait to see if this becomes an option.
I'm also not entirely liking the full version atm.
My main gripes are two-fold:
First, every single time you enter Growth Mode, your wallet restarts to $300 for the new horse. Why can't the wallets carry over from horse to horse and actually provide some incentive to go for more prize money?
Second is the bad scaling of the shop prices: the minute you place in the Debut Race, for example, the racing shop prices jump heavily from $300 each to $10K+ each. This would not be a bad thing, if the prize money were scaled to support buying items, but this is one aspect of where the game really acts like it punishes success.
While I enjoy the game and the variety of the horses and their abilities (serously, I love the special horses each owner presents), if Game Freak could address the imbalance issues in a future patch, it would really sell this game. I do recommend everyone play the demo and give it a spin, and buy into the (relatively cheap) download if they find interest. Just keep your expectations a bit low for now and hope Game Freak is listening to the reviews.
The Nintendo portable line has been (and still remains) my platform of choice for gaming over many others, and I'm glad to see that Nintendo is working to keep and potentially grow the 3DS base. Hopefully, we get more games and deals that take advantage of getting more people into the New 3DS — that's really what will send their profits up for the next year, and possibly during the NX years as well.
The demo impressed me with the combination of elements presented, although I'm still hesitant to jump in quite yet. This is not the first iteration of enhanced Golf Solitaire I've seen (Big Fish's Fairway Golf for iOS is still my go-to for this) and the track movement portion really had a fine line (there were too many instances I missed out on bonus power by being a couple of pixels off). Still, I might replay the demo a few times and see if it grows on me.
Somehow, I have the firm belief we will actually see NX at E3. I think they are denying it just to draw attention and then they will suddenly drop the mic on everyone. Not like Nintendo has not done some marketing shenanigans before to drive sales (amiibo shortages, anyone? )
The figure extras are a nice touch (and the soundtrack). If this version supports 3D, however, it could definitely step up the creepy factor of the original. Imagine the scenes from Corpse Party, but having them up close in your face ... shivers
I tend to balance price and value of the physical release. If it is a franchise I care about, almost always I will get a physical cart. If it is eShop only or something that would be less convenient to get on cartridge, then I usually download it instead, but these cases have been rare for me.
tbh, the balance between physical and download is all about how much extra SD memory put into it, and this is where I feel Nintendo really dropped the ball. Having the New unit's SD card slot inside the system plate remains a pretty bad decision if they wanted to promote downloading software, whereas the old 3DS and even PSP had the option to open a door and pop out/push in cards whenever you wanted.
It's really sad they could not get the New 3DS version updated with it. Still, Wii U owners who are on the fence about it and would not mind the thematic content should pick it up without a second thought.
That's a pretty nice incentive. If this is a legit release, it could also be a good demonstration of the cross-platform/cross-buy feature they teased My Nintendo would support. It would be a disappointment if they do not make this multi-device supported.
For those of us who never owned a Wii / WiiU and upgraded to a New 3DS, this is a dream come true. Glad to see that Nintendo is finally giving us the support the 3DS community has been waiting for!
For those that have Wii/WiiU, don't forget that My Nintendo is still getting set up and it has been hinted to support cross-platforming. So, it could be that you will be able to eventually get SNES VC titles across all platforms. If not, then yes, Nintendo will have dropped a very huge ball in customer support.
I really do not see EO working on anything but a 3DS (or Wii U), because the map-drawing feature is one of the big mechanics of the series.
I'd also like to see them do a couple more things to support the New 3DS: an adaptation of Persona 3 Portable for it would be nice, or at the least a Persona Q-esque game with the Persona 5 cast.
@kristycocopop Same here. I poured a good bit of money into the game to get all of the balloons, but now they come out with a commercial version that generates currency and we'll have to spend another $30 or more to get?
It's seriously not a fair shake to those who actually supported it with transactions, and there are just other Pokemon games out there to spend the money on. :
The 3DS is my current gen system of choice. I still have a lot of games to finish on it, and between the DS and 3DS game support, I have pretty much everything I could want in a powerful portable.
I received my New 3DS XL as a Christmas present, which was needed as my old 3DS XL had a weakening battery and a cracked case joint. I also later bought a 32GB Sandisk Micro SDHC memory upgrade, which was actually cheaper than Sony's proprietary nonsense and fits a lot of content from the eShop.
I never stop playing on it, and both Monster Hunter and Zelda MM are now great games to play on it thanks to the C-Stick. The stable 3D is also great, and I play many more games in 3D than I used to because of the graphical bump and stability camera.
If there were any complaints I would have, the placement of the ZL and ZR would probably be the only ones. My fingers have gotten used to the L/R shoulder configuration, and it's tough to reach around those shoulders to reach the Zs. The Circle Pad Pro had them below the shoulders, and that was a good spot, but I could see why they made the design choice they did.
Overall, everyone owes it to themselves to consider upgrading, even if they have to trade up. If this is indeed the last phase of the 3DS family, it's certainly the best one and the features are well worth the investment. You can also wait to see what NX has in store--the New 3DS will be waiting if you decide the NX is not what you want.
Some of those will be nice additions to my collection.
I boot it up every day and usually get at least one badge through free plays, though I do try to chain them where I can. I only put money in if the badges are ones that I really want to get my hands on, which at this point has been Zelda-themed ones. Since it's been Wind Waker HD week with all-new badges, I've put a more than a few dollars in to collect as many as possible. >_>
@The_BAAD_Man It's too bad you don't play every day. The Practice Catcher game almost always generates at least 1 free play every time you use it. With some practice and skill, you can grab almost any badge (or badges) you want.
Another reason why the 3DS outlasts the Vita: Sony loves to push its own proprietary memory cards you can't reuse in other machines, while the 3DS still uses generic SD technology.
Nintendo has a habit of keeping its systems alive with support, and typically if they are not supporting it first-party, the independent and smaller third-parties step in to fill the void. The Unity support added to New 3DS will pay off for these latter two, but trying to get larger third-parties back into the Nintendo fold will be hard.
Remember, these are businesses--they just like to hang out where they can make the most profit. Independents are willing to take the plunge, but I sadly do not see the big companies even dipping their toes into 3DS anymore. Let's just hope NX can draw some support in.
@Sir420 It's not as if the tools aren't in place for New 3DS to be useful:
It does save one from buying a Circle Pad Pro separately anymore;
With the Unity support, developers will more readily integrate the performance, extra buttons, and C-Stick/2nd Pad;
SmileBASIC 3DS already supports the extra buttons & stick via Circle Pad Pro support, so that's one community to also watch for additional New 3DS-capable games, or to create your own;
There are also a good number of excellent past games that are easier with (or really need) the additional stick & buttons, like Kid Icarus: Uprising, Metal Gear Solid 3D, Monster Hunters 3 & 4, and the Zelda 3D remakes.
So, the execution has been there, but the Circle Pad Pro was always an imperfect solution that they finally integrated into one unit. I agree, though, that they just need to take those next steps in supporting future potential.
Definitely liked the first one, so will be getting the second one at some point
Also, the fighting engine that was used in the first Project [Cross] Zone is a variant of the same juggle-action fighting as found in the Super Robot Wars OG Saga: Endless Frontier (which I also have a copy of). I find it a good system for everyone to get into — it's easy for players who are not good at action games and just want to mash buttons, yet very strategic in the pooling and proper use of the resource points and items collected. The engine has the right amount of balance to it, but I do hope that [Cross] Zone 2 tweaks it for better balance between the action and strategy.
@Xenocity Umm... I'm not sure of your game quality standards, but this old-schooler who started in the Atari 2600 era thinks that statement does not matter to the gaming community. Sales are not the only factor in what is a quality game — a lot of the retro games that pop up (M:ZM included) tend to have a better 2nd (or 3rd, or 4th) life beyond its original release.
Also, I do have the original GBA cart (bought it when it was new),and consider it a gem in my gaming collection.
Received a New 3DS XL for Christmas, which is fine since my old red 3DS XL has suffered a bit of a beating over the years. I like the extra controls and the fact that the SDHC memory can be maxed to 32GB for a relatively cheap price.
I've always thought companies were too quick to write off the 3DS. I'm glad to see Square Enix finally put Dragon Quest out internationally and would like to see what more indie developers can do with the extra options on the New model. I think 2016 will be a banner year for the 3DS & New 3DS, but only if Nintendo plays its cards right.
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Re: The 3DS & Wii U eShops Have Officially Closed, Purchases "No Longer Possible"
We will miss you, 3DS eShop. Looks like the only thing we can do other than Bank and redownloads are updates still being live, so at least there is that.
My last game purchase: Kid Icarus Uprising, which I used to have as a physical copy, but lately I wanted to play it more than any of the other games I could swing the money for. Firing it up again, I got back to the feels for the game, even though I can still never really find the most comfortable way to play it.
I already picked up everything else I could want beforehand over the years (like all the Zelda content, the Pushmo Trilogy, Etrian Odyssey, Persona Q, the SMT games, Level 5's Guild games, all of Phoenix Wright) and dug in here and there for last-minute quickies that I knew were probably not going to be on Switch but I wanted to try (like Dr. Mario: Miracle Cure).
Re: Video: Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth Gets Brand New Story Trailer
@CurryPowderKeg79 It will be a while even if a port comes out, as the Etrian Odyssey-based series still use the touch screen as an essential part of the experience. ATLUS will figure out some way to put the EO series on Switch, probably by having a map / main split screen, but the write-in mapping feature will definitely be missed when the time comes.
Re: Nintendo Will Continue To Sell The 3DS, As Long As There Is Consumer Demand For It
One of the biggest reasons to hold on to 3DS is if you started from the beginning and built up a large library of games for it. If you started off buying up all the classics and a lot of the exclusive games for it, it's not easy to just dump all of that and re-buy everything just because it is on Switch now. You already paid for these titles, why re-buy them when the system they are on is still operable?
Also, the exclusive games are valuable to those collecting for certain series, like Shin Megami Tensei--SMT IV, Strange Journey, Devil Survivor, and Demon Summoner are all largely exclusive to (or are great remakes for) the 3DS platform. If you are seeking to build a collection for SMT, Zelda, Mario, Pokemon, etc. a 3DS is still a necessity for these kinds of collectors, old and new.
Finally, 3DS is still something that can be carried around your pocket easily, unlike the Switch and its need for a purse or bag to carry it in. If you still have that long train / bus ride to look forward to and want to conserve your smartphone's battery for a long work day ahead, the 3DS is still the better alternative for these kinds of travel-game experiences.
Sure, I will probably get a Switch at some point, but will I be eager to dump the 3DS into a dust bin, never to be played again? Nope, it sits right next to my PSP as two great classic gaming repositories I will never put down.
Re: Talking Point: Come In Nintendo 3DS, Your Time Is Up
It's really not time for the 3DS to be up yet. It can still do games and game styles that no other system can do the same way, even Switch. 3DS still does what Switch and Smartphone/Tablets cannot do: Be both, without interference from either. Also, the New 2DS/3DS is only 4 years old, has upgraded and expanded technology from the original, and potential that has not been fully explored. Then there is a huge game library still out there with games that have been exclusive to the system or worthy of remake (like the Zeldas). Finally, with a good handful of programming software out there like RPG Maker Fes and SmileBASIC / Petit Computer, creative people with the time have all the tools to make their own 3DS creations come alive.
There is just so many reasons why 3DS remains a great system, and why die-hard fans will stay in with the system and continue to explore what it has to offer.
Re: Nintendo eShop Cyber Deals: Big Savings And Discounts (North America)
Hyrule Warriors Legends for me, thanks! Just the sale I was waiting for, as that makes the entire game with all DLC cost less than it currently retails without DLC, and at least $25 less combined than the Switch "Definitive Edition", which probably won't see a similar markdown for a very long time.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (October 27th)
Just picked up Etrian Mystery Dungeon. So far, having some fun adventuring in a different (yet also very familiar) universe. ^_^
Re: Wario's Latest Microgame Collection On 3DS Wasn't Just A Quick Money Grab
First, WarioWare for Switch will most likely be out, and made to support the Switch and its various techniques for control. As already said, WarioWare Gold was made for the DS/3DS line, and this 3DS fan happens to like it (and continues to play it on and off since purchasing it on launch day).
Also, when I decide to give up 3DS, or get a Switch, or maybe even a PS4 or an XBox, that's actually my decision to make and not yours to influence or pressure. If you like the Switch, fine, that's your choice and I have nothing against it, since I am leaning that way. My choice right this moment is to stick with the 3DS and the backlog of great games I still have to play, including more WarioWare (and maybe even some Luigi's Mansion).
tl;dr "If you can't say somethin' nice ... don't say nothin' at all." - Thumper
Re: Poor Old Wario Had Just Two Days To Top The NPD Game Charts In July
As a die-hard fan of the series, of course I bought a Physical Copy right on release day. I still play through it to complete missions (and it is also good training for some of the earlier microgames I never got to complete). I do not regret buying it.
P.S. Please, everyone, enough with the negativity and the "3DS Must Die!" nonsense. If you have moved on to Switch, good for you. I just do not agree with why people have to be so hateful about it.
Re: Review: WarioWare Gold (3DS)
Just picked it up today and enjoying every minute of it. I like that the old puzzles were given a needed facelift and all of the extras look like they are well worth the time to invest in playing the microgames to their fullest to get them all.
Re: Review: Code Of Princess EX (Switch)
I just wish this reviewer could find something other than "3DS origins" as a reason to put this game down. This should NEVER be used as a summary reason to put a stigma on a game. -_-;
Re: Inti Creates CEO Takuya Aizu Wants To Develop A Remake Of Zelda II
If done right, this would be a great idea! I think side-scrolling Zeldas given another chance would be a nice change of pace for the series, and Inti Creates have proven they can do some great side-scrollers.
Re: Metal Gear Movie Director Shares His Ideas About A Potential Legend Of Zelda Film
@Smigit Look up the "Legend of Zelda (April Fool's Day) Trailer" on IGN's YT.
Actually, everyone should review (or re-review) how IGN and Rainfall Films actually proved that the concept really can work, especially with Link as a silent protagonist. Although, the "Tron Lines" this director mentioned might not work out for a title usually steeped in medieval fantasy, especially after seeing the aforementioned trailer.
Re: Miitomo Meets Its End On 9th May
Used to connect to it every day when it was initially released, but then most of my social contacts got really bored with it. The only part I really liked were the costumes and the photo features: I eventually picked up the Black Zelda 8-Bit shirt so I could take a meta-picture with me in my own shirt, for example.
It had a great idea, but sadly just failed to truly ignite into something really big. Do I think this is the fault of the aging Mii concept, however? No, not really. Miis still have some relevance and make good digital avatars, but we are still waiting on Nintendo's Switch Online options to see if they stick with it or completely toss it asides.
Re: Hands On: The Future Of Gaming Is Cardboard, Thanks To Nintendo Labo
Actually, where I see the project actually taking off is in the controller ideas. After all, based on what we saw in the Demo, there will be Steering Wheels, Flight Stick, and Pedals. Think what other developers could do if they could find a way to use Labo controllers in their flight sims or driving games? I see the potential for so much more with this project beyond what is expected. Sure, a lot of it looks like tools, but cheap and useful controller peripherals? That would be even more awesome!
Re: Soapbox: What The Upcoming Pokémon Switch RPG Can Learn From Recent Pokémon Games
You have to understand the road from the beginning to now has seen broad spectrum change in the entire medium of Japanese entertainment. These days, the fandom of Pokemon at its beginning to the Mega Evolution era is basically comparing the Neon Genesis Evangelion television series to the Rebuild of Evangelion movie franchise: Similar themes and beats (at least, at the beginning), but vastly diverging into different territory rather than reinventing the wheel. There was already critical staleness setting in since the HeartGold/SoulSilver release, so obviously Game Freak had to infuse new ideas as they went or risk having fans eventually burn out from each one just being "yet another Pokemon game". I like that they continue to try out different things as they progress, and anyone who has not tried Ultra Sun / Moon just because they expect "more of the same" will be pleasantly surprised at the little tweaks and differences that truly make this one to at least rent or try out on a friend's copy before you judge it not worth playing again.
Re: The Legend Of Dark Witch 3 Casts A Spell Over 3DS Next Week
I am glad to see LOTDW get yet another game on the 3DS.
On the controversy, if you do not want to play on the 3DS, then that is your choice. Those of us who still have and actively play 3DS hardware (especially the barely 3-year-old New 3DS hardware) still enjoy seeing new games pop up now and again. After 6 years and well over 69 million units confirmed sold combined across all family lines, it is still a viable software platform. Sure, it's days are numbered, but please stop trying to shovel dirt on top of it — it will remain one of the most significant (and wanted) legacy platforms for years to come.
Re: Blaster Master Zero
I really like Inti Creates games overall, but they usually are at their best as a second-party developer. Mega Man Zero and ZX still remain my all-time favorites of theirs, at least until this one came along. So far, everything looks well-crafted — controls are much nicer, gameplay is pretty much the same except for Jason's expanded gun options — that alone eases a lot of the unforgiving challenge of the original BM. Clever use of save points instead of lives also eliminates a lot of the frustration of the original — no more Game Over restarts. If you have any interest in Blaster Master or good retro-style action shooters, you should not hesitate to buy this game.
Re: Nintendo Download: 9th March (North America)
Just got Blaster Master Zero for 3DS. As a fan of the original, I was eager to try out the same game with all-new controls and gameplay, and I so far really like it.
Re: Nintendo Switch Will Be Easier To Find Than The NES Classic At Launch, Says Reggie Fils-Aime
The New 3DS just came out not too long ago and has a lot of potential, so glad to see Nintendo is giving it some needed support.
Re: Capcom is Putting on a Sale on the North American eShops
Plenty good sales on both, but Wii U discounts look the more tempting. Still, not a lot here for me, considering I have no Wii U and most of the 3DS games on the list already.
Re: Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney - Spirit of Justice Begins Trial on 8th September
Can't wait for this one to release. Still, why they never added Apollo Justice: AA to the Ace Attorney Trilogy remake is kinda odd — the Ace Attorney Quadrilogy has a better ring to it.
Re: Nintendo Issues Takedown Notices for Impressive Fan-Made Metroid II Remake, AM2R
A company that has a very popular IP, wants to control that IP with heavy-handed tactics, and even sent their lawyers out to shut down fan websites and projects to stop that IP from getting beyond their control. Sound familiar? It should, but I'm not talking about Nintendo in this sentence. This is actually the actions of another company, TSR Inc. The IP, of course, was Dungeons & Dragons.
"Fanaticism consists in redoubling your efforts when you have forgotten your aim." - George Santayana, The Life of Reason
Re: Review: ASH (3DS eShop)
@Hikingguy I agree with you, this review is a bit skewed against old-school RPGs. I was similarly disappointed at Morgan Sleeper's review of Justice Chronicles for the same reasons, as he also mentions that aspects of that game give off "an unfortunate RPG Maker vibe".
I would rather read a review that takes out the apparent skew towards RPG Maker games being seen as a "negative", considering that many games made with RPG Maker actually have gotten some high praise (like the aforementioned Corpse Party), and it's only a tool for creating games: it's what a person does with that tool that is important, not the tool itself.
Re: Chrono Trigger Director Would Love To Create A New "High End" Version Of The Game
I still wonder why it needs another remake. The cutscene-heavy PS1 & 3DS versions were more than enough. I'd rather they talk about a sequel than yet another remake of a remake.
Re: Poll: Are You Still a Miitomo Regular, or Has The Great Mii Q & A Lost Its Charm?
I think it's still a good application for learning a bit more about friends (and their friends) and MiiFoto is the most fun part about it, but it really needs more minigames beyond Miitomo Drop.
btw, it's easy what they could do to improve it: Just add Nintendo Badge Arcade as a section in Miitomo and incorporate digital badge trading. Even though it sounds like a bit of work, this one idea could give both Miitomo and Badge Arcade fans lots of incentive to use it.
Re: Five More 3DS Games Will Join the European Nintendo Selects Range in June
Surprised no one here yet mentioned interest in New Style Boutique (or Style Savvy: Trendsetters here in the US). It's actually quite a good game, with a lot of fashion choices and some really addictive elements. If you get a chance, I highly recommend trying out the demo and see for yourself.
Re: Feature: A Night at the Arcade
I was an original arcade & pinball gamer way back when. My folks usually brought me to Chuck E. Cheese parties, and there were quite a few machines in there I was really glued to at the time, mostly the unusual machines (like the Tron arcade games and Joust 2). In college, the break room had a small arcade with Arkanoid, Centipede, and a High Speed: Getaway II pinball stuck in the corner, so guess where I spent most of my lunch time?
I really miss the arcade experience overall. Most of the arcades I frequented became dominated by prize machines over cabinets--while I like claw games, IMHO it's just no longer the same experience as Mitch described. I wish there was a Dave & Busters around here.
Re: The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Arrives on the North American VC Tomorrow
Still have the original game, and the sequel. My only real gripe was the reliance on pen control for most everything and the DS touchscreen was hard to draw concise lines on. With the much larger Gamepad to play on, though, Wii U definitely fixes this limitation, which means the game might actually be more fun to play.
Re: Poll: Did The First Pokémon: Sun and Moon Trailers and Starter Pokémon Get You Excited?
I'm probably going with Moon as my main game, but I want to see a little bit more before I make a decision on that.
I would definitely choose Rowlet as a starter, as the dual type usually gives nice early advantage and as a Zelda fan, I'm happy to get what is potentially going to be Kaepora Gaebora in a Pokemon game. ^_^
Definitely like the islands feel, as well — it would be nice if you could "Sail" in 3D a la the Soar option in ORAS. Can't wait to see if this becomes an option.
Re: Review: Pocket Card Jockey (3DS eShop)
I'm also not entirely liking the full version atm.
My main gripes are two-fold:
First, every single time you enter Growth Mode, your wallet restarts to $300 for the new horse. Why can't the wallets carry over from horse to horse and actually provide some incentive to go for more prize money?
Second is the bad scaling of the shop prices: the minute you place in the Debut Race, for example, the racing shop prices jump heavily from $300 each to $10K+ each. This would not be a bad thing, if the prize money were scaled to support buying items, but this is one aspect of where the game really acts like it punishes success.
While I enjoy the game and the variety of the horses and their abilities (serously, I love the special horses each owner presents), if Game Freak could address the imbalance issues in a future patch, it would really sell this game. I do recommend everyone play the demo and give it a spin, and buy into the (relatively cheap) download if they find interest. Just keep your expectations a bit low for now and hope Game Freak is listening to the reviews.
Re: Poll: Are You Confident About Nintendo's 3DS Focus for 2016?
The Nintendo portable line has been (and still remains) my platform of choice for gaming over many others, and I'm glad to see that Nintendo is working to keep and potentially grow the 3DS base. Hopefully, we get more games and deals that take advantage of getting more people into the New 3DS — that's really what will send their profits up for the next year, and possibly during the NX years as well.
Re: Pocket Card Jockey Comes to North America on 5th May
The demo impressed me with the combination of elements presented, although I'm still hesitant to jump in quite yet. This is not the first iteration of enhanced Golf Solitaire I've seen (Big Fish's Fairway Golf for iOS is still my go-to for this) and the track movement portion really had a fine line (there were too many instances I missed out on bonus power by being a couple of pixels off). Still, I might replay the demo a few times and see if it grows on me.
Re: Humble Friends of Nintendo Bundle Offers Games at a Huge Discount
Only have one of these games (Retro Rampage DX) and I love supporting HB, so yes, definitely supporting this one. ^_^
Re: Reaction: Nintendo Shakes Up E3 With No NX and a Focus on Legend of Zelda
Somehow, I have the firm belief we will actually see NX at E3. I think they are denying it just to draw attention and then they will suddenly drop the mic on everyone. Not like Nintendo has not done some marketing shenanigans before to drive sales (amiibo shortages, anyone? )
Re: XSEED Unveils Corpse Party 3DS Details, Including a 'Back to School Edition'
The figure extras are a nice touch (and the soundtrack). If this version supports 3D, however, it could definitely step up the creepy factor of the original. Imagine the scenes from Corpse Party, but having them up close in your face ... shivers
Re: Poll: Are You Ready to Download More of Your Retail Games From the eShop?
I tend to balance price and value of the physical release. If it is a franchise I care about, almost always I will get a physical cart. If it is eShop only or something that would be less convenient to get on cartridge, then I usually download it instead, but these cases have been rare for me.
tbh, the balance between physical and download is all about how much extra SD memory put into it, and this is where I feel Nintendo really dropped the ball. Having the New unit's SD card slot inside the system plate remains a pretty bad decision if they wanted to promote downloading software, whereas the old 3DS and even PSP had the option to open a door and pop out/push in cards whenever you wanted.
Re: The Binding of Isaac: Afterbirth is Coming to Wii U
It's really sad they could not get the New 3DS version updated with it. Still, Wii U owners who are on the fence about it and would not mind the thematic content should pick it up without a second thought.
Re: Rumour: A My Nintendo Exclusive Picross Game Will Be Based On Twilight Princess
That's a pretty nice incentive. If this is a legit release, it could also be a good demonstration of the cross-platform/cross-buy feature they teased My Nintendo would support. It would be a disappointment if they do not make this multi-device supported.
Re: SNES Games Finally Arriving on the New Nintendo 3DS Virtual Console
For those of us who never owned a Wii / WiiU and upgraded to a New 3DS, this is a dream come true. Glad to see that Nintendo is finally giving us the support the 3DS community has been waiting for!
For those that have Wii/WiiU, don't forget that My Nintendo is still getting set up and it has been hinted to support cross-platforming. So, it could be that you will be able to eventually get SNES VC titles across all platforms. If not, then yes, Nintendo will have dropped a very huge ball in customer support.
Re: First Etrian Odyssey V Story Details Emerge From the Depths
Like seeing that EO is continuing, but one thing about that cover girl... doesn't she look like Frederica Irving? O_O
(Along those lines, could this be some sequel to Millennium Girl? That would actually be an interesting twist, wouldn't it?)
Re: Atlus Survey Lists Etrian Odyssey V as a 3DS Release
I really do not see EO working on anything but a 3DS (or Wii U), because the map-drawing feature is one of the big mechanics of the series.
I'd also like to see them do a couple more things to support the New 3DS: an adaptation of Persona 3 Portable for it would be nice, or at the least a Persona Q-esque game with the Persona 5 cast.
Re: Pokémon Rumble World Comes to Retail in North America on 29th April
@kristycocopop Same here. I poured a good bit of money into the game to get all of the balloons, but now they come out with a commercial version that generates currency and we'll have to spend another $30 or more to get?
It's seriously not a fair shake to those who actually supported it with transactions, and there are just other Pokemon games out there to spend the money on. :
Re: Feature: Looking Back at the New 3DS Launch, Nintendo's Perfect Valentine's Day Gift
The 3DS is my current gen system of choice. I still have a lot of games to finish on it, and between the DS and 3DS game support, I have pretty much everything I could want in a powerful portable.
I received my New 3DS XL as a Christmas present, which was needed as my old 3DS XL had a weakening battery and a cracked case joint. I also later bought a 32GB Sandisk Micro SDHC memory upgrade, which was actually cheaper than Sony's proprietary nonsense and fits a lot of content from the eShop.
I never stop playing on it, and both Monster Hunter and Zelda MM are now great games to play on it thanks to the C-Stick. The stable 3D is also great, and I play many more games in 3D than I used to because of the graphical bump and stability camera.
If there were any complaints I would have, the placement of the ZL and ZR would probably be the only ones. My fingers have gotten used to the L/R shoulder configuration, and it's tough to reach around those shoulders to reach the Zs. The Circle Pad Pro had them below the shoulders, and that was a good spot, but I could see why they made the design choice they did.
Overall, everyone owes it to themselves to consider upgrading, even if they have to trade up. If this is indeed the last phase of the 3DS family, it's certainly the best one and the features are well worth the investment. You can also wait to see what NX has in store--the New 3DS will be waiting if you decide the NX is not what you want.
Re: Mega Man Is Blasting His Way To Nintendo Badge Arcade
Some of those will be nice additions to my collection.
I boot it up every day and usually get at least one badge through free plays, though I do try to chain them where I can. I only put money in if the badges are ones that I really want to get my hands on, which at this point has been Zelda-themed ones. Since it's been Wind Waker HD week with all-new badges, I've put a more than a few dollars in to collect as many as possible. >_>
@The_BAAD_Man It's too bad you don't play every day. The Practice Catcher game almost always generates at least 1 free play every time you use it. With some practice and skill, you can grab almost any badge (or badges) you want.
Re: 3DS to Continue as a 'Major Pillar' of Nintendo's Business
Another reason why the 3DS outlasts the Vita: Sony loves to push its own proprietary memory cards you can't reuse in other machines, while the 3DS still uses generic SD technology.
Nintendo has a habit of keeping its systems alive with support, and typically if they are not supporting it first-party, the independent and smaller third-parties step in to fill the void. The Unity support added to New 3DS will pay off for these latter two, but trying to get larger third-parties back into the Nintendo fold will be hard.
Remember, these are businesses--they just like to hang out where they can make the most profit. Independents are willing to take the plunge, but I sadly do not see the big companies even dipping their toes into 3DS anymore. Let's just hope NX can draw some support in.
Re: Talking Point: The New Nintendo 3DS is Yet to Have a Real Chance to Revive the Portable Family
@Sir420 It's not as if the tools aren't in place for New 3DS to be useful:
So, the execution has been there, but the Circle Pad Pro was always an imperfect solution that they finally integrated into one unit. I agree, though, that they just need to take those next steps in supporting future potential.
Re: Talking Point: The New Nintendo 3DS is Yet to Have a Real Chance to Revive the Portable Family
There are a lot of things Nintendo can do in software to bolster the New 3DS:
There are so many ways Nintendo could be making money off this system, it's just up to them to capitalize on them.
Re: North America Gets a Project X Zone 2 Demo on 26th January
Definitely liked the first one, so will be getting the second one at some point
Also, the fighting engine that was used in the first Project [Cross] Zone is a variant of the same juggle-action fighting as found in the Super Robot Wars OG Saga: Endless Frontier (which I also have a copy of). I find it a good system for everyone to get into — it's easy for players who are not good at action games and just want to mash buttons, yet very strategic in the pooling and proper use of the resource points and items collected. The engine has the right amount of balance to it, but I do hope that [Cross] Zone 2 tweaks it for better balance between the action and strategy.
Re: Nintendo Download: 14th January (North America)
@Xenocity Umm... I'm not sure of your game quality standards, but this old-schooler who started in the Atari 2600 era thinks that statement does not matter to the gaming community. Sales are not the only factor in what is a quality game — a lot of the retro games that pop up (M:ZM included) tend to have a better 2nd (or 3rd, or 4th) life beyond its original release.
Also, I do have the original GBA cart (bought it when it was new),and consider it a gem in my gaming collection.
Re: Talking Point: The Easily Forgotten Hardware Release of 2015 - New Nintendo 3DS
Received a New 3DS XL for Christmas, which is fine since my old red 3DS XL has suffered a bit of a beating over the years. I like the extra controls and the fact that the SDHC memory can be maxed to 32GB for a relatively cheap price.
I've always thought companies were too quick to write off the 3DS. I'm glad to see Square Enix finally put Dragon Quest out internationally and would like to see what more indie developers can do with the extra options on the New model. I think 2016 will be a banner year for the 3DS & New 3DS, but only if Nintendo plays its cards right.