This game shipped in a pretty rough state. That said, after several updates, I feel it is the best way to play it now. 60 fps in all battles - Except the last boss I hear - just on Switch - I’ve played on Xbox Series S and it’s amazing now. Didn’t start that way, but I would definitely recommend it to anyone as it is now. I know I may be a minority, but I probably prefer it slightly above Trigger (Blasphemy, I know!).
I must be the odd man here, but I enjoyed Xillia 2 more than the first one. Liked them both of course, but for some reason 2’s story was more interesting to me. 🤔 Maybe a replay of both would change that. Not sure. Regardless, the more these games become available with current systems - where the goal seems to be keeping the games available as far into the future as possible, the better in my opinion. As far as prices go, I think we fail to realize the work that developers have to put in to these games, and the people who need to make a living. Life’s not free, nor is it cheap. I am paid for my work, and would think it is reasonable to pay others for their work.
I don’t really pay for NSO for the retro catalog, it’s so my kids and I can play some online. The price is pretty great compared to the other consoles. I’d double dip for Virtual Console individual game purchases.
I think the main thing sticking out for me in this article is the comment about diminishing returns. We argue about specs and resolution, etc., but if I’m being honest, what keeps me playing these days is engagement in the system and quality games - and quality games to me aren’t always the flashiest. I have a PS5, a Series S, and Switch 2. Honestly, the PS5 is my most powerful console…but I play it the least. Series S is where I spend most of my time - with Switch 2 and Switch 1 in a close second - followed by my PS1 (not a typo), and Retroid Pocket 5 lately. I can’t even tell you exactly why Series S gets the most time. It’s a number of reasons - some of it has to do with the user interface, some of it with the convenience of moving the small box around to different locations, some of it because it has such great backwards compatibility with the 360 generation. Diminishing returns is real, and to be honest, it was due to an exclusive that I ever picked up a PS5. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth…which will no longer be exclusive in the near future. It’s weird time in gaming. Chasing specs isn’t a guarantee for the best experience any longer. It can help, but experience is king.
Is it weird that because those games are included, I want the game more…?
Still waiting for a good sale. Super Street Fighter II was actually my favorite…SNES edition. Probably because I spent the most time with it as a teenager. Good times. Actually, great times! Everything was changing so fast in the world at the time with technology, it was such an exciting time to live through.
Street Fighter or Mortal Kombat?
I have played the GameCube version of WW countless times. I love it. That being said, I would take the WWHD any day over the original. The Swift Sail makes all the difference, as do the improved controls. I wouldn’t mind the Tri-Force quest being restored from the original, but that’s the only thing. I love the bloom lighting and the vibrant colors of the remake. It feels like being out at sea on a sunny day.
Love either version. Prefer HD.
It’s exactly what I was hoping for. I still have a few questions, but it sounds like April 2 (my first boy’s birthday!) will be a great day to learn more. Time to work on that backlog…and continue replaying my favorites. As usual. 😄
I am really enjoying these comments. Good to see the varying opinions and experiences.
Honestly, for me personally, I enjoy the changes Final Fantasy has experimented with exception of when they’ve decided to go into the M/PEGI 18 range. There are plenty of games that cater to that audience, but having Final Fantasy go that route was extremely disappointing for me (again personally).
I have played Final Fantasy since the early 90’s, and have enjoyed most of its iterations for what they were. I adore IX, love XII, actually quite liked XV, and semi-regularly rotate through all the offline games I-XV (well not so much XIII these days, but I attempt for short bursts at a time…). I didn’t even touch XVI, due to the rating - I try to play games that I don’t have to apologize for in front of my kids. I’d take a T version…
XV, as divisive and convoluted as it is, told a great story. Noctis grew up, as was mentioned in an earlier comment, and the story delivered.
Have recently spent a lot of time with VI. It’s such a great game. Wish the Pixel Remasters would have included the extra content. I loved having something to do in each game I-VI that really pushed my party end game.
Tactics remaster/release is long overdue. A IX overhaul would be amazing. I would take a patch for the game (as well as VII and VIII) that improved the CGI backgrounds and raised the frame rate in battle. Actually the Chrono Cross rerelease has become my favorite version of that game because of the frame rate improvements, the additional material and options, and the art. The Final Fantasy rereleases would have benefited from that type of love and attention post release.
Overall, there is a lot to love about the series, and definitely some ways to bring back that excitement, but it probably requires that SE goes back to their roots. A battle system like that found in ReMake and ReBirth would be great for the next entry, but I’d take a turn based game as well. Maybe not random encounters though…😉
Makes me want to dip back in. I was overwhelmed with all the options in the game, played around a little, then finished up the main story. I personally hope there is more of this in the future - but I would love permanence. If I choose to fix up Castle Town, it stays that way. People move in. I’m sure that’s a huge ask on a technical level, but I would love it if it were possible!
I’m glad they’re going the backwards compatibility route. My only fear is that it won’t bring any improvements to older games. One thing I love about PS5 and Xbox backwards compatibility is that it often adds graphical improvements and my favorite: fps bumps. Not that they’re essential, but they’re nice. Imagining Breath of the Wild, Tears, and the Xenoblade games with those improvements, gets my hopes pretty high.
Loaded up and ready for the 7th. My kids will probably be the ones to play this the most. I’ve enjoyed the Mario and Luigi games, but I’ve never finished them.
@HatesCheese My thought is that they’ll hold off until after the holidays. A new system announced on the horizon would probably eat into current Switch sales. I kind of hate the wait, but that’s probably the best business choice - in my opinion. Honestly, the thing that excites me the most about the next system is the possibility of playing my currently owned games with a smoother frame rate. It hasn’t necessarily ruined my enjoyment of some games, but it’s nice having a smoother experience. I love the Switch, but other than first party games, I tend to go PS5 or Xbox for newer games.
@Clammy …Or they played the Switch version of Link’s Awakening and wondered why the Gameboy could do a better job 25 (ish) years prior, and just wanted a smooth experience.
It won’t keep me from the game in the end, but for as simplistic as the graphics are (beautiful in my opinion though), why can’t it be better optimized? There’s probably a lot more than I realize going on behind the scenes in the game, but stuttering really can be an immersion killer. 30 fps, 60 fps, doesn’t matter, consistency is key in my opinion.
Haven’t bothered to pick it up yet. I am sure I will, and that I will enjoy it for what it is. The “combat” does seem a bit tedious. Framerate isn’t the be all end all for me, but it still matters.
The art is beautiful, of course!
I put it off for a bit due to Metaphor.
I do look forward to it, but my first impressions is “do I want to do that much work in a game?” Maybe I will. I still need to finish Link’s Awakening on Switch (I have been through it in German on the Game and Watch version since picking up the Switch version…). I should probably do that first!
I love his crazy stories. I enjoy the Kingdom Hearts series. It is what it is…whatever that is. I just want Sora and Kairi to get their happy ending finally. Then he can retire. 😉
I’ve enjoyed CRTs over the years. I have a flatscreen RCA with S-Video that is pretty great, though I kick myself for giving away a similar model that had component input - but no s-video. It’s so hard to find a set with all the thing that isn’t too big. 20 inches is my personal sweet spot. I do have a good little Sharp 20 inch LCD with S-video and Component, and it actually does really well. In some ways I prefer it because the geometry is perfect. Geometry is the one thing that drives me crazy about CRTs. CRTs/Displays are a pretty fun and frustrating rabbit hole.
@smoreon I definitely don’t have access to all the PS1 Classics purchased back in the day, but those that have been made available (if I search to see if they’re on the current store), have been free to “re-add” to my purchases. I doubt all those PS3 purchases will rejoin the “classics”, but those that have have been nice to be able to access.
It’s such a nice gesture on their part. They could have gone the Wii U route and made me pay a small fee, or just gone full price. It’s things like that, that make a world of difference. It shows that my business is appreciated.
Do you want to know something cool? I downloaded Tekken 2 on my PS5 for nothing yesterday because I had purchased it on my PS3 several years ago, and Sony respected that purchase with their online account system. The same goes for Wild Arms 1 & 2, Grandia, and any other PS1 Classic I bought back in the day. I bought Symphony of the Night on Xbox 360, and I can play it today on my Series S. I understand that licensing and emulation for some of the older games needs to be future proofed (so to speak), but when it was, Sony didn’t charge me again.
I’d like to see that kind of respect for customers from Nintendo.
Sony and Microsoft have figured out that when a customer buys something we appreciate being able to move it forward. I bought way too many Virtual console games on Wii and Wii U, and I guess, according to Nintendo, that’s where they get to stay.
I love many things about Nintendo, but their treatment of customers and legacy properties could be better. That said, I do appreciate their coin system - it’s saved me some money over the years.
15-20 years seems about right at this point in video game history, but the gains continue to become smaller as the medium matures, so who’s to say? Is it style? Graphics? Type? I don’t know that it’s an easy answer. There are games from the PS2/GC era that still hold up extremely well, while there are also games from the PS3/360/Wii era that are really showing their age. Maybe I need to ask my kids what is retro to them since time flies too fast for me now!
I’m pretty negative on the joy cons. Too small. Too flimsy. Too much drift. Honestly, they are probably one of my most despised controllers for any system I’ve ever owned. I bought an add-on controller with a much better grip and will use it almost 100% of the time when playing handheld. I wouldn’t mind them being compatible with “Switch 2”, but, personally, they’re about the worst. 😉
I don’t really like the joycons - to the point that I bought another slide on controller for handheld mode. I wouldn’t cry to see them go. Joycon or no, I’m excited to see the next iteration of Switch. Only thing I really care about is that my stupidly large digital library carries forward!
I definitely love Final Fantasy VI. The characters and story are excellent. The game is fun. I do wonder though if maybe an anime or series would be an option. Just a different way to tell the story. I bet it would be pretty amazing if done well.
I would take a remake for sure. Something along Tales of Vesperia style would be pretty cool. Not as intense as FFVII Rebirth looks, but would still give the chance to have a world map.
There are lots of options. The Pixel Remaster is pretty great (they all are), I just wish they wouldn’t have left out the bonus content from the GBA and (now unavailable) iPhone/Steam versions. I’m one of the few who liked the debatable art style, and the extras were a nice bonus.
I made the “switch” to all digital back in the Wii U days after broken discs and lost cartridges with kids. I still buy physical for older systems (obviously). I made the mistake of selling some GameCube and PS1/PS2 games in the past and realized that no matter the game, even a dud, I would like to have the opportunity to dive back in, even just for fun, at any given time. There are risks for both, physical and digital, but having my games on a hard drive isn’t too much different than having them physical at this point - especially since current disc games have to be installed anyway.
It needs backwards compatibility. This article feel like it’s really trying to sell some idea that really ought not be sold. I would guess that 99.9% of Switch owners would appreciate a token of goodwill in the form of BC. I’m really curious about where the idea for this article originated…
I like Phil. Say what you will, but at least he is trying to create goodwill between companies. It’s a job, and he’s running a business, but at least he’s taking a route that’s attempting to create some warm feelings and unification. Doesn’t bother me in the least.
It looks great. I love “2d” Mario. That said… would love to see a new sprite-based Mario. Maybe that’s a “pipe” dream, better saved for the Tanooki Kingdom…
I enjoy both for sure, but I find myself going back to the sprite versions most often. There’s some criticism of the Pixel Remaster being too easy, but for me that’s because grinding levels became easier with auto battle. The end boss in Pixel Remaster can still obliterate an unprepared team. I really loved the voice acting in the NDS remake. It does move a bit slow, but the increased difficulty is a welcome challenge. It’s a Final Fantasy game where if you don’t defend or use protect/shell you will die. I love that the spells matter.
I’ve really enjoyed the Pixel Remasters myself. The music is excellent especially. I do wish for the extra content contained in other releases. It would have been great to include it all, but I’d take DLC if it were an option. I have really enjoyed every Final Fantasy up through XV, (excluding the online games where I just dabbled during free trial periods), but when I am feeling nostalgic for that classic Final Fantasy gameplay, it’s really IX and below that hit all the right spots for me. I don’t love the direction it’s been going the last few years in tone. VII Remake was an exception it was fun and well done, but I still go back to the original VII more than Remake for that classic feel. That said, I am looking forward to Rebirth.
This probably sounds bad, but this list makes me glad I went with PS1 back in the day. I was into RPGs and N64 hardly had anything for me.
I did pick up an N64 around 2005/6 at a Gamestop for about $25 and have only a very few physical games for the system. Seven: Mario 64, Star Wars Shadows of the Empire, Wipeout 64, Goldeneye, Star Fox, Wave Race, and Zelda: Ocarina of Time. All great games. I do have other originally N64 games in my collection, but they are ports/Virtual Console to other systems (GameCube, Wii, Wii U, Switch).
I think it is a case of quality over quantity with the N64. The games that were good…were amazing and genre defining, but I don’t regret going the PS1 route back in 1997 when I bought into that generation. I mean, I played FFVII, VIII, IX, Final Fantasy Tactics, Wild Arms, and Cool Boarders 2 just to mention a few.
Of course I did go back to the GameCube for the next generation…because I got the system and Mario Sunshine in a bundle for $99 at the local Walmart. After that, it has been a great ride with Nintendo.
I guess what I mean to say is that this article helped me realize I personally don’t feel that I missed much from Nintendo during that weird period of time.
Glad Kate’s back! I had a hard time with Rupees at first, but after spending way too much time in caves…it’s been easier to snag them. I do wish for a weapon crafting/repair option, but…weapons and materials come so quickly, it’s not a huge deal.
@Nate-sk8 I think that’s what people are missing. The original Zelda was almost completely open world. Dungeons could be challenged in almost any order. You could literally wander forever and go wherever. I see BOTW and TOTK as a natural progression of that original feel. By the time I had played Skyward Sword (twice at least), I was so tired of the forced progression. The puzzles and dungeons were great, but the freedom of real exploration was nothing more than a feeling if being funneled down a certain path.
I love almost every Zelda game on its own merits for sure, but as overwhelming as TOTK can feel, it is still nice to have choices as how to approach the game. If I want to hit the story, the option is there. If I want to wander aimlessly, that option is there as well.
Great game so far for me.
Edit: I’m definitely not putting down anyone who wants a more linear Zelda akin to LTTP or OOT, I’d definitely play another one of those myself, but I do find the current formula more liberating (and yes, almost to the extreme! 🤪).
The original Final Fantasy is one of my very favorite game experiences. I had played Final Fantasy Legend II and Final Fantasy IV before it, but it sticks out powerfully in my mind as an 80's/90's child.
I would rent the game from our local rental shop and would slowly make progress. I remember getting stuck in the Marsh Cave. The difficulty spikes quite a bit at that point and common enemies, mixed with the length of the dungeon can completely destroy even a well-leveled party. I found out how hard wizards could hit, and even now, when running through enhanced versions of the game, I tend to over-level just to be prepped for the Marsh Cave.
I think that difficulty was part of the magic. I think not knowing what to expect or where to go added to the immersion. You were forced to scour for every detail of information to progress. I also remember figuring out that a monk was a great class to have, as soon as you passed level 8 (Which is the level when weapons actually hinder a monk's damage rather than help.).
Lately, I have been realizing that that obscurity adds to the magic.
The original Zelda had that magic as well. You were left questioning whether Zelda really existed at all in the world.
I am grateful the most recent games in the series have trusted the player to figure the game out. As much as I enjoyed Skyward Sword when it was released, I felt too constrained to follow the rails. Thankfully the Zelda formula started to change back with A Link Between Worlds, and was blown back open with BOTW.
I don't know if Final Fantasy will ever be able to go back to that level of mystery, and challenge, I don't know if it should, but I do miss some of the challenge that was found in those first games in the series.
Great write up. Definitely got me thinking and reminiscing this morning.
I like a lot of their games, but they aren’t the company I grew up with. Too bad. That said. Triangle Strategy and Octopath II are great. Chrono Cross (after the recent update) is now the definitive version of the game it should have been at launch. There are a few good games buried beneath their “edge-lord” attempts.
…I bought all of them. Four times. (iOS, Steam, Switch, and PS4…) I’m part of the problem. Classic Final Fantasy games are my favorites! So basically a million of the sales were just me.
I thought she was great. Different strokes I guess. I felt her voice was a great match for how Zelda was portrayed in Breath of the Wild. I am excited to see how she does in Tears of the Kingdom.
My first thought wasn’t for COD to run on the Switch, but on Nintendo’s next console. So I wonder if this statement is a bit premature. By the time things are worked out (or not) Nintendo will have to be on the verge of releasing something new… I mean…hopefully…I absolutely love the Switch, but it’s getting a bit long in the tooth…
I’d love to see Limited Run do some reprints of some of the classic SNES games: Chrono Trigger, Ogre Battle, Secret of Mana, Terranigma…to mention a few. A guy can wish right? This does look pretty cool overall. I love software still being made available for legacy systems. I get that it can be a tad pricey, but just beating Ebay or Amazon secondhand sellers would be great as well as providing a bit of income for Limited Run and the original publishers.
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Re: Surprise! Another Square Enix Switch Game Is Now Compatible On Switch 2
This game shipped in a pretty rough state. That said, after several updates, I feel it is the best way to play it now. 60 fps in all battles - Except the last boss I hear - just on Switch - I’ve played on Xbox Series S and it’s amazing now. Didn’t start that way, but I would definitely recommend it to anyone as it is now. I know I may be a minority, but I probably prefer it slightly above Trigger (Blasphemy, I know!).
Re: Nintendo Had No "Intention To Hinder Or Invalidate" Third-Party Docks For Switch 2
@ferryb001 That’s the one I used for my dock. It’s working again…not even the same company. Or maybe it is? You never know with knock off docks! 🤪
Re: Tales Of Xillia 2 Remastered On The Way, With More To Come
I must be the odd man here, but I enjoyed Xillia 2 more than the first one. Liked them both of course, but for some reason 2’s story was more interesting to me. 🤔
Maybe a replay of both would change that. Not sure. Regardless, the more these games become available with current systems - where the goal seems to be keeping the games available as far into the future as possible, the better in my opinion.
As far as prices go, I think we fail to realize the work that developers have to put in to these games, and the people who need to make a living. Life’s not free, nor is it cheap. I am paid for my work, and would think it is reasonable to pay others for their work.
Re: Nintendo's Trademarking 'Virtual Console' Again, But Don't Get Your Hopes Up
I don’t really pay for NSO for the retro catalog, it’s so my kids and I can play some online. The price is pretty great compared to the other consoles.
I’d double dip for Virtual Console individual game purchases.
Re: Rumour: Sony Is Gunning For The Switch 2 With A Handheld, Dockable PS6
I think the main thing sticking out for me in this article is the comment about diminishing returns. We argue about specs and resolution, etc., but if I’m being honest, what keeps me playing these days is engagement in the system and quality games - and quality games to me aren’t always the flashiest. I have a PS5, a Series S, and Switch 2. Honestly, the PS5 is my most powerful console…but I play it the least. Series S is where I spend most of my time - with Switch 2 and Switch 1 in a close second - followed by my PS1 (not a typo), and Retroid Pocket 5 lately. I can’t even tell you exactly why Series S gets the most time. It’s a number of reasons - some of it has to do with the user interface, some of it with the convenience of moving the small box around to different locations, some of it because it has such great backwards compatibility with the 360 generation.
Diminishing returns is real, and to be honest, it was due to an exclusive that I ever picked up a PS5. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth…which will no longer be exclusive in the near future.
It’s weird time in gaming. Chasing specs isn’t a guarantee for the best experience any longer. It can help, but experience is king.
Re: PSA: You Can Play One Of The Greatest Platformers Of All Time In Street Fighter 6
Is it weird that because those games are included, I want the game more…?
Still waiting for a good sale. Super Street Fighter II was actually my favorite…SNES edition. Probably because I spent the most time with it as a teenager. Good times. Actually, great times! Everything was changing so fast in the world at the time with technology, it was such an exciting time to live through.
Street Fighter or Mortal Kombat?
Re: Zelda Wind Waker Switch 2 GameCube Release Doesn't Rule Out HD Port
I have played the GameCube version of WW countless times. I love it. That being said, I would take the WWHD any day over the original. The Swift Sail makes all the difference, as do the improved controls. I wouldn’t mind the Tri-Force quest being restored from the original, but that’s the only thing. I love the bloom lighting and the vibrant colors of the remake. It feels like being out at sea on a sunny day.
Love either version. Prefer HD.
Re: Nintendo Switch 2 Reveal Trailer Gives First Official Look At The New Console
It’s exactly what I was hoping for. I still have a few questions, but it sounds like April 2 (my first boy’s birthday!) will be a great day to learn more.
Time to work on that backlog…and continue replaying my favorites. As usual. 😄
Re: Level-5 CEO Shares Another Update About Its 2025 Switch Game Schedule
Yo-kai Watch 4 please. PLEASE!!!!!?
😉
Seriously though. Please!
Re: Final Fantasy Team Wants To Hear Your Thoughts About The Series
I am really enjoying these comments. Good to see the varying opinions and experiences.
Honestly, for me personally, I enjoy the changes Final Fantasy has experimented with exception of when they’ve decided to go into the M/PEGI 18 range. There are plenty of games that cater to that audience, but having Final Fantasy go that route was extremely disappointing for me (again personally).
I have played Final Fantasy since the early 90’s, and have enjoyed most of its iterations for what they were. I adore IX, love XII, actually quite liked XV, and semi-regularly rotate through all the offline games I-XV (well not so much XIII these days, but I attempt for short bursts at a time…). I didn’t even touch XVI, due to the rating - I try to play games that I don’t have to apologize for in front of my kids. I’d take a T version…
XV, as divisive and convoluted as it is, told a great story. Noctis grew up, as was mentioned in an earlier comment, and the story delivered.
Have recently spent a lot of time with VI. It’s such a great game. Wish the Pixel Remasters would have included the extra content. I loved having something to do in each game I-VI that really pushed my party end game.
Tactics remaster/release is long overdue. A IX overhaul would be amazing. I would take a patch for the game (as well as VII and VIII) that improved the CGI backgrounds and raised the frame rate in battle. Actually the Chrono Cross rerelease has become my favorite version of that game because of the frame rate improvements, the additional material and options, and the art. The Final Fantasy rereleases would have benefited from that type of love and attention post release.
Overall, there is a lot to love about the series, and definitely some ways to bring back that excitement, but it probably requires that SE goes back to their roots. A battle system like that found in ReMake and ReBirth would be great for the next entry, but I’d take a turn based game as well. Maybe not random encounters though…😉
Re: 'Nintendo Music' Adds A Huge Zelda Soundtrack, Here's Every Song Included
Love the music for this game. The game is good as well, but way too linear. Still, quite fun though. Great story for sure.
Re: Nintendo Switch Online's NES And Genesis Apps Get Updated To Fancy New NPLN Servers
Not totally on topic, but it would be nice to buy these games separately from the app. Just thought I’d mention it again.
Re: Random: Move Over Anakin, Link's Coming For That Podracing Title
Makes me want to dip back in. I was overwhelmed with all the options in the game, played around a little, then finished up the main story. I personally hope there is more of this in the future - but I would love permanence. If I choose to fix up Castle Town, it stays that way. People move in. I’m sure that’s a huge ask on a technical level, but I would love it if it were possible!
Re: Take-Two Boss Shares Thoughts On 'Switch 2' And Backwards Compatibility
I’m glad they’re going the backwards compatibility route. My only fear is that it won’t bring any improvements to older games. One thing I love about PS5 and Xbox backwards compatibility is that it often adds graphical improvements and my favorite: fps bumps. Not that they’re essential, but they’re nice. Imagining Breath of the Wild, Tears, and the Xenoblade games with those improvements, gets my hopes pretty high.
Re: Mario & Luigi: Brothership Estimated Switch File Size Update
Loaded up and ready for the 7th. My kids will probably be the ones to play this the most. I’ve enjoyed the Mario and Luigi games, but I’ve never finished them.
Re: Anniversary: 8 Years Since Nintendo Unveiled Switch, The World Awaits The Next Reveal
@HatesCheese My thought is that they’ll hold off until after the holidays. A new system announced on the horizon would probably eat into current Switch sales.
I kind of hate the wait, but that’s probably the best business choice - in my opinion.
Honestly, the thing that excites me the most about the next system is the possibility of playing my currently owned games with a smoother frame rate. It hasn’t necessarily ruined my enjoyment of some games, but it’s nice having a smoother experience. I love the Switch, but other than first party games, I tend to go PS5 or Xbox for newer games.
Re: Anniversary: 8 Years Since Nintendo Unveiled Switch, The World Awaits The Next Reveal
Man. Breath of the Wild still looks so great. That game had a major impact. I loved the quiet moments just sitting in the world.
Re: Poll: What Review Score Would You Give The Legend Of Zelda: Echoes Of Wisdom?
@Clammy yeah, that’s fair. I am looking forward to it overall, just hesitant.
I’m sure it’s great overall.
Re: Poll: What Review Score Would You Give The Legend Of Zelda: Echoes Of Wisdom?
@Clammy …Or they played the Switch version of Link’s Awakening and wondered why the Gameboy could do a better job 25 (ish) years prior, and just wanted a smooth experience.
It won’t keep me from the game in the end, but for as simplistic as the graphics are (beautiful in my opinion though), why can’t it be better optimized? There’s probably a lot more than I realize going on behind the scenes in the game, but stuttering really can be an immersion killer. 30 fps, 60 fps, doesn’t matter, consistency is key in my opinion.
Re: Poll: What Review Score Would You Give The Legend Of Zelda: Echoes Of Wisdom?
Haven’t bothered to pick it up yet. I am sure I will, and that I will enjoy it for what it is. The “combat” does seem a bit tedious. Framerate isn’t the be all end all for me, but it still matters.
The art is beautiful, of course!
I put it off for a bit due to Metaphor.
I do look forward to it, but my first impressions is “do I want to do that much work in a game?” Maybe I will. I still need to finish Link’s Awakening on Switch (I have been through it in German on the Game and Watch version since picking up the Switch version…). I should probably do that first!
Re: Tetsuya Nomura Contemplates Retirement And Concluding Kingdom Hearts
I love his crazy stories. I enjoy the Kingdom Hearts series. It is what it is…whatever that is.
I just want Sora and Kairi to get their happy ending finally. Then he can retire. 😉
Re: Video: Gather 'Round Kids, Sakurai Talks About CRT Displays
I’ve enjoyed CRTs over the years. I have a flatscreen RCA with S-Video that is pretty great, though I kick myself for giving away a similar model that had component input - but no s-video. It’s so hard to find a set with all the thing that isn’t too big. 20 inches is my personal sweet spot.
I do have a good little Sharp 20 inch LCD with S-video and Component, and it actually does really well. In some ways I prefer it because the geometry is perfect. Geometry is the one thing that drives me crazy about CRTs.
CRTs/Displays are a pretty fun and frustrating rabbit hole.
Re: Hands On: Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake Is Much More Than A Pretty Picture
Definitely excited for the three Sragon Quest games!
Re: Nintendo Is Seeking More Talent To Help Run Its Switch Online Service
@smoreon I definitely don’t have access to all the PS1 Classics purchased back in the day, but those that have been made available (if I search to see if they’re on the current store), have been free to “re-add” to my purchases. I doubt all those PS3 purchases will rejoin the “classics”, but those that have have been nice to be able to access.
It’s such a nice gesture on their part. They could have gone the Wii U route and made me pay a small fee, or just gone full price. It’s things like that, that make a world of difference. It shows that my business is appreciated.
Re: Nintendo Is Seeking More Talent To Help Run Its Switch Online Service
Do you want to know something cool? I downloaded Tekken 2 on my PS5 for nothing yesterday because I had purchased it on my PS3 several years ago, and Sony respected that purchase with their online account system. The same goes for Wild Arms 1 & 2, Grandia, and any other PS1 Classic I bought back in the day. I bought Symphony of the Night on Xbox 360, and I can play it today on my Series S. I understand that licensing and emulation for some of the older games needs to be future proofed (so to speak), but when it was, Sony didn’t charge me again.
I’d like to see that kind of respect for customers from Nintendo.
Sony and Microsoft have figured out that when a customer buys something we appreciate being able to move it forward. I bought way too many Virtual console games on Wii and Wii U, and I guess, according to Nintendo, that’s where they get to stay.
I love many things about Nintendo, but their treatment of customers and legacy properties could be better. That said, I do appreciate their coin system - it’s saved me some money over the years.
Re: Talking Point: How Do You Define 'Retro'?
@JimmyFleck I like the term “classic” definitely has a nice sound, and it shows respect for a well-crafted game regardless of age.
Re: Talking Point: How Do You Define 'Retro'?
15-20 years seems about right at this point in video game history, but the gains continue to become smaller as the medium matures, so who’s to say? Is it style? Graphics? Type?
I don’t know that it’s an easy answer. There are games from the PS2/GC era that still hold up extremely well, while there are also games from the PS3/360/Wii era that are really showing their age.
Maybe I need to ask my kids what is retro to them since time flies too fast for me now!
Re: Talking Point: Would You Want To Reuse Your Joy-Con On 'Switch 2'?
I’m pretty negative on the joy cons. Too small. Too flimsy. Too much drift. Honestly, they are probably one of my most despised controllers for any system I’ve ever owned.
I bought an add-on controller with a much better grip and will use it almost 100% of the time when playing handheld.
I wouldn’t mind them being compatible with “Switch 2”, but, personally, they’re about the worst. 😉
Re: Video: Digital Foundry Talks 8-Inch 'Switch 2' Screen, Joy-Con Compatibility
I don’t really like the joycons - to the point that I bought another slide on controller for handheld mode. I wouldn’t cry to see them go. Joycon or no, I’m excited to see the next iteration of Switch. Only thing I really care about is that my stupidly large digital library carries forward!
Re: Don't Expect A Remake Of Final Fantasy 6 Soon, If Ever
I definitely love Final Fantasy VI. The characters and story are excellent. The game is fun. I do wonder though if maybe an anime or series would be an option. Just a different way to tell the story. I bet it would be pretty amazing if done well.
I would take a remake for sure. Something along Tales of Vesperia style would be pretty cool. Not as intense as FFVII Rebirth looks, but would still give the chance to have a world map.
There are lots of options. The Pixel Remaster is pretty great (they all are), I just wish they wouldn’t have left out the bonus content from the GBA and (now unavailable) iPhone/Steam versions. I’m one of the few who liked the debatable art style, and the extras were a nice bonus.
Re: Poll: How Often Do You Trade-In Your Switch Games?
I made the “switch” to all digital back in the Wii U days after broken discs and lost cartridges with kids.
I still buy physical for older systems (obviously). I made the mistake of selling some GameCube and PS1/PS2 games in the past and realized that no matter the game, even a dud, I would like to have the opportunity to dive back in, even just for fun, at any given time.
There are risks for both, physical and digital, but having my games on a hard drive isn’t too much different than having them physical at this point - especially since current disc games have to be installed anyway.
Re: Round Up: The Reviews Are In For Super Mario RPG
I love this game. Excited to play it again. The world is so…warm and inviting. Cozy? Amazing game.
Re: Soapbox: 'Switch 2' Doesn't Really Need Backwards Compatibility
It needs backwards compatibility. This article feel like it’s really trying to sell some idea that really ought not be sold. I would guess that 99.9% of Switch owners would appreciate a token of goodwill in the form of BC.
I’m really curious about where the idea for this article originated…
Re: Random: Xbox's Phil Spencer 'Had A Blast' Playing Super Mario Bros. Wonder
I like Phil. Say what you will, but at least he is trying to create goodwill between companies. It’s a job, and he’s running a business, but at least he’s taking a route that’s attempting to create some warm feelings and unification.
Doesn’t bother me in the least.
Re: Poll: What Did You Think Of The Super Mario Bros. Wonder Direct Showcase?
It looks great. I love “2d” Mario. That said… would love to see a new sprite-based Mario. Maybe that’s a “pipe” dream, better saved for the Tanooki Kingdom…
Re: Retro RPG 'Sea Of Stars' Approaches Release With Another Stunning Trailer
I’m pretty excited for this game! I love the aesthetic. The demo was a great time.
Re: Soapbox: These Everyday Items Trigger Me Now, And I Blame Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom
Thanks for the laugh! Great read.
Re: Poll: Final Fantasy IV - Do You Prefer The Original Or The DS Remake?
I enjoy both for sure, but I find myself going back to the sprite versions most often. There’s some criticism of the Pixel Remaster being too easy, but for me that’s because grinding levels became easier with auto battle. The end boss in Pixel Remaster can still obliterate an unprepared team.
I really loved the voice acting in the NDS remake. It does move a bit slow, but the increased difficulty is a welcome challenge. It’s a Final Fantasy game where if you don’t defend or use protect/shell you will die. I love that the spells matter.
Re: Veteran Final Fantasy Devs Gather To Celebrate Franchise's 35th Anniversary
I’ve really enjoyed the Pixel Remasters myself. The music is excellent especially. I do wish for the extra content contained in other releases. It would have been great to include it all, but I’d take DLC if it were an option.
I have really enjoyed every Final Fantasy up through XV, (excluding the online games where I just dabbled during free trial periods), but when I am feeling nostalgic for that classic Final Fantasy gameplay, it’s really IX and below that hit all the right spots for me.
I don’t love the direction it’s been going the last few years in tone. VII Remake was an exception it was fun and well done, but I still go back to the original VII more than Remake for that classic feel. That said, I am looking forward to Rebirth.
Re: Best Nintendo 64 Platformers - Every N64 3D Platformer, Ranked By You
This probably sounds bad, but this list makes me glad I went with PS1 back in the day. I was into RPGs and N64 hardly had anything for me.
I did pick up an N64 around 2005/6 at a Gamestop for about $25 and have only a very few physical games for the system. Seven: Mario 64, Star Wars Shadows of the Empire, Wipeout 64, Goldeneye, Star Fox, Wave Race, and Zelda: Ocarina of Time. All great games. I do have other originally N64 games in my collection, but they are ports/Virtual Console to other systems (GameCube, Wii, Wii U, Switch).
I think it is a case of quality over quantity with the N64. The games that were good…were amazing and genre defining, but I don’t regret going the PS1 route back in 1997 when I bought into that generation. I mean, I played FFVII, VIII, IX, Final Fantasy Tactics, Wild Arms, and Cool Boarders 2 just to mention a few.
Of course I did go back to the GameCube for the next generation…because I got the system and Mario Sunshine in a bundle for $99 at the local Walmart. After that, it has been a great ride with Nintendo.
I guess what I mean to say is that this article helped me realize I personally don’t feel that I missed much from Nintendo during that weird period of time.
Re: Soapbox: How Zelda's Bad Economy Made Weapon Degradation Great Again
Glad Kate’s back! I had a hard time with Rupees at first, but after spending way too much time in caves…it’s been easier to snag them.
I do wish for a weapon crafting/repair option, but…weapons and materials come so quickly, it’s not a huge deal.
Re: Expect More Open-World Zelda Games Going Forwards, Suggests Eiji Aonuma
@Nate-sk8 I think that’s what people are missing. The original Zelda was almost completely open world. Dungeons could be challenged in almost any order. You could literally wander forever and go wherever. I see BOTW and TOTK as a natural progression of that original feel. By the time I had played Skyward Sword (twice at least), I was so tired of the forced progression. The puzzles and dungeons were great, but the freedom of real exploration was nothing more than a feeling if being funneled down a certain path.
I love almost every Zelda game on its own merits for sure, but as overwhelming as TOTK can feel, it is still nice to have choices as how to approach the game. If I want to hit the story, the option is there. If I want to wander aimlessly, that option is there as well.
Great game so far for me.
Edit: I’m definitely not putting down anyone who wants a more linear Zelda akin to LTTP or OOT, I’d definitely play another one of those myself, but I do find the current formula more liberating (and yes, almost to the extreme! 🤪).
Re: Soapbox: Obstinate And Addictive - Playing Final Fantasy For The First Time In 2023
The original Final Fantasy is one of my very favorite game experiences. I had played Final Fantasy Legend II and Final Fantasy IV before it, but it sticks out powerfully in my mind as an 80's/90's child.
I would rent the game from our local rental shop and would slowly make progress. I remember getting stuck in the Marsh Cave. The difficulty spikes quite a bit at that point and common enemies, mixed with the length of the dungeon can completely destroy even a well-leveled party. I found out how hard wizards could hit, and even now, when running through enhanced versions of the game, I tend to over-level just to be prepped for the Marsh Cave.
I think that difficulty was part of the magic. I think not knowing what to expect or where to go added to the immersion. You were forced to scour for every detail of information to progress. I also remember figuring out that a monk was a great class to have, as soon as you passed level 8 (Which is the level when weapons actually hinder a monk's damage rather than help.).
Lately, I have been realizing that that obscurity adds to the magic.
The original Zelda had that magic as well. You were left questioning whether Zelda really existed at all in the world.
I am grateful the most recent games in the series have trusted the player to figure the game out. As much as I enjoyed Skyward Sword when it was released, I felt too constrained to follow the rails. Thankfully the Zelda formula started to change back with A Link Between Worlds, and was blown back open with BOTW.
I don't know if Final Fantasy will ever be able to go back to that level of mystery, and challenge, I don't know if it should, but I do miss some of the challenge that was found in those first games in the series.
Great write up. Definitely got me thinking and reminiscing this morning.
Re: Square Enix Game Sales Down 12.2% Despite Multiple High-Profile Releases
I like a lot of their games, but they aren’t the company I grew up with. Too bad.
That said. Triangle Strategy and Octopath II are great. Chrono Cross (after the recent update) is now the definitive version of the game it should have been at launch. There are a few good games buried beneath their “edge-lord” attempts.
Re: Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster Series Sells Two Million Copies
…I bought all of them. Four times. (iOS, Steam, Switch, and PS4…) I’m part of the problem. Classic Final Fantasy games are my favorites! So basically a million of the sales were just me.
Re: Zelda's VA Officially Confirms Her Return In Tears Of The Kingdom
I thought she was great. Different strokes I guess.
I felt her voice was a great match for how Zelda was portrayed in Breath of the Wild. I am excited to see how she does in Tears of the Kingdom.
Re: Review: Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Future Redeemed - A Stunning Denouement, Utterly Essential
I’ve really enjoyed what I’ve played so far. To quote a favorite character from the Xenoblade series, “I’m really feeling it!”
Re: Nintendo Switch Is Not "Technically Capable" Of Running Call Of Duty Games, Says CMA
My first thought wasn’t for COD to run on the Switch, but on Nintendo’s next console. So I wonder if this statement is a bit premature. By the time things are worked out (or not) Nintendo will have to be on the verge of releasing something new…
I mean…hopefully…I absolutely love the Switch, but it’s getting a bit long in the tooth…
Re: Review: Final Fantasy I-VI Pixel Remaster - A Beautiful And Faithful Reimagining Of The Classics
These are great versions! If we could get the bonus dungeons as a bonus later or even DLC, they’d be perfect.
Re: Sunsoft's Classic Platformer Trip World Will Get New Colour Re-Release On Switch, GB And GBC
I’d love to see Limited Run do some reprints of some of the classic SNES games:
Chrono Trigger, Ogre Battle, Secret of Mana, Terranigma…to mention a few.
A guy can wish right?
This does look pretty cool overall. I love software still being made available for legacy systems. I get that it can be a tad pricey, but just beating Ebay or Amazon secondhand sellers would be great as well as providing a bit of income for Limited Run and the original publishers.