@gatorboi352 Yeah, THAT'S the reason. Nothing to do with the game being a disaster and that the PC version is a desperate attempt to recoup costs. Nope.
Calling others "children" doesn't help your case either.
@Kirk And who says Nintendo doesn't have high production values? Videogames are not movies - just because a game has sweeping panoramic shots, JJ Ambrams-esque lens flare and an obnoxious orchestrated soundtrack, doesn't make it somehow 'better presented' than a game like Mario or Star Fox.
The latter game in particular is ironic, because one of the things praised about that series was just HOW movie-like it was... So, if Star Fox Zero is exactly the same as its predecessors, does that mean it also is movie-like? Or is it actually a bare-bones experience, as you are implying?
"I can tell you this for pretty much a fact: If Star Fox Zero was the first ever Star Fox game, and it released today as basically the same game we've seen thus far in demos, then in 20 years time pretty much nobody would be talking about the Star Fox franchise and certainly not with any great love."
You're confusing fact with opinion. You haven't played Star Fox Zero. We don't even know how complete the game is. What a ridiculous claim.
"Designing modern hardware around that thinking too—that you don't need to instil a sense of awe, wonder and magic, or impress and excite consumers in any way beyond just a gimmick—is also where I think Nintendo is making the same kind of huge mistake over and over these days."
Really? Because from my experiences, Nintendo still designs the most immersive games of any company. The Mario Galaxy games were my favourites of last gen - and were the highest rated, too. It divided opinion, but I thought Skyward Sword was very captivating, too. A Link Between Worlds, Pikmin 3, Pokemon, Fire Emblem, Xenoblade - hell, even Animal Crossing - you're saying none of those are immersive?
"VR on the other hand will likely be the exact opposite of that however, imo; because once you get past the fact it's VR it doesn't change the other fact that it's a total paradigm shift in how you experience interactive media, more immersive than anything that has come before, and that's an actual game changer. It's like how going from 2D to 3D in video games was a game changer."
Umm... What? You criticise 3D for being a fad, and that you have to wear stupid headwear... Before praising VR - which has just as much chance of being a fad... Whilst wearing stupid headwear? To add, I'm not convinced VR will be anything extraordinary; like Warren Spector himself said, the tech creates a disconnect from reality - and some health experts believe having two HD screens strapped to your eyes is very detrimental to you. AR, on the other hand, is where the money is at, IMO.
"Nintendo can constantly try to do something totally "new" or it could just try to do the very best version of what generally already exists, and unless the "new" thing it tries is genuinely some kind of game changer and paradigm shift, like the move to 3D graphics was or the move to VR will likely be"
See, that's the thing - you can't tell if the 'new' thing WILL be a game-changer or a gimmick. That's the entire point of experimentation - failure is always a risk. The rewards, however, are huge. There's only so much you can do by constantly polishing what already exists - relying on such a method leads to market stagnation. Take 3D graphics you mentioned; back then, no-one knew if they would genuinely improve gaming - or if they would have just been (yes) a gimmick. Believe it or not, many thought gaming was perfect with 2D graphics, and were quick to point out the flaws of moving to 3D (cost, complexity, cumbersome, etc). Yet, Nintendo broke the mold with Mario 64 - whilst other 3D games were clumsy affairs. They experimented, and it paid off, and now virtually every 3D, 3rd-person videogame today is based on Mario 64's template. Also, the DS - Nintendo simply could have released a souped-up Game Boy, but they chose the dual-screen, touch based method. I remember virtually everyone scoffing at this, whilst proclaiming the death of Nintendo (my, how times have changed) and the dominance of the PSP. Look what happened, not only did the DS succeed, but it paved the way for smartphones and tablets. None of that would've happened if Nintendo simply 'refined' what already existed.
@Quorthon "You have apparently based this comment entirely on The Order 1886 and somehow failed to realize that cinematic titles like Witcher III, Telltale's games, Life is Strange, GTA, Metal Gear Solid, Far Cry 4, Tomb Raider, Alien Isolation, and numerous others have been performing extremely strongly. Hell, Witcher 3 basically outsold Mario Kart 8 in a month."
No. I based that comment on the increasing discontent that is rising from consumers due to the industry's obsession over pretty (and oftentimes fake) presentation in an effort to impress, whilst the gameplay turns out to barren and lifeless. Have not seen all the articles about the last couple of E3 shows, and how publishers were showcasing style over substance? Remember Watch_Dogs? Destiny? Titanfall? Evolve? AC Unity?
And as I said before, cinematic games and good gameplay are not mutually exclusive. I used The Order: 1886, because it represents everything with the 'graphics > gameplay' mentality that is flooding the 'Triple-A' industry. It is by no means the only game, but it is fallacy to say that Nintendo 'needs' to adopt this movie-like approach to its games. Such reverence for Hollywood reeks of desperation, and de-legitimises everything that videogames represent - and what their potential holds. There are so many different ways to tell a story - not just through cutscenes, but by DOING, which is what I've always liked about Nintendo games. The story isn't just the narrative - it's the way you interact with the world, and how you go about solving its puzzles.
To somehow say that such a method is 'outdated' is utterly asinine.
Also, that's a bizarrely random list of games there. They're all 'cinematic' in differing ways. Telltale's games are nothing like Far Cry 4, and Metal Gear Solid is nothing like Alien Isolation. I think you're confused.
Witcher 3 is no more 'movie-like' than Zelda. It sold more than Mario Kart 8? Wow, if only Witcher 3 wasn't available on three formats - compared to MK's home of 10 million Wii Us - I would have been shocked, otherwise!
@Kirk - Well, take a look at the most popular games out there. Minecraft. Rust. Day-Z. All those Facebook and Smartphone apps. They're not exactly the most cinematic of games. Even Splatoon.
If anything, 'cinematic' games have gotten a bad reputation lately, due to the negative connotations of stinkers like The Order: 1886 and E3 bullshots. On top of that, games like Smash Bros, Mario Kart, Pokemon and Animal Crossing are all hugely successful - and I wouldn't exactly call them Kubrick-esque masterpieces.
I'm not saying all games SHOULDN'T be cinematic though - just that pure gameplay should always take precedence; and such a mindset is the reason why Nintendo's franchises have lasted for so long. It may not be as immediately 'flashy' as Hollywood-aping title, but they certainly last much, much longer in the minds of gamers. I doubt people will be talking about Uncharted in 20 years time like they way they do Mario or Zelda.
People who are hoping that the NX will be some sort of powerhouse will very disappointed.
Competing with Sony and Microsoft with raw specs is the worst thing Nintendo could possibly do. History has shown - in the majority of console generations - that going down the 'power' route is a dangerous move. Even the SNES - while undoubtedly successful - was still beaten by the Genesis in North America. The current console generation is the only exception, so far.
Not to mention the practical dangers. Nintendo doesn't have the resources of its competitors; if they engage in the power game, what's to stop the other companies from constantly one-upping them? Such a road is a dangerous one - especially for a company that is so reliant of hardware profit.
Believe it or not, there are benefits of going down the 'weak' route. The lower costs enable more experimentation, not to mention a greater degree in profitability. That's why a title like Hyrule Warriors can 'only' sell a million units, and still be deemed successful. Contrast that to the Tomb Raider remake, which was apparently a flop, despite shifting 3.4 million copies!
One just needs to look at last gen as a lesson in the dangers of high development costs. Countless developers and publishers went bankrupt because of the PS3 and Xbox 360, and we're still seeing closures to the present day.
Now, that's not to say power is unimportant - or that Nintendo shouldn't pack some grunt under the hood. But rather, hardware specs shouldn't override innovation - and yes, that also means 'gimmicks'. Because innovation and gimmicks are one and the same - one cannot exist without the other. Failure is unavoidable in the pursuit of new successes, and Nintendo knows this. It has lasted for 126 years because of its refusal to stand still and just 'accept' things the way they were. Nintendo needs to be paranoid. It needs to keep trying new things, because it is dangerous to be complacent - especially for a relatively small company (compared to behemoths like Microsoft, Apple and Google).
If it's anything like Platinum's other games, replaying Star Fox will be incredibly fun. Generally, first-time plays serve as an 'introduction', with second runs acting as the meat and potatoes.
Combine this with the multiple storyline routes of Star Fox, and I can see Zero having a tonne of replay value.
@Alucard83 - First of all, the fact that Lego Jurassic World isn't receiving DLC on Wii U has NOTHING to do with the console's power. It's a financial reason. Justified or not, that's what it is.
Second of all - newsflash, ALL consoles are outdated technologically. Both the PS4 and Xbox One have weak tablet CPUs that are making it a chore for developers to hit 1080p and 60fps.
Even then, a console's specs have nothing to do with the quality of its software library or strength of sales.
PSOne, PS2, DS, Wii, 3DS, Game Boy - machines that all fended off technologically stronger competition with the right marketing and good games that appealed to a wide audience.
The reason why Wii U is doing terribly right now isn't because of 'power' - but rather, lousy marketing on behalf of Nintendo. Why do you think the PS4 is selling so well, despite its lack of killer software and price reductions? That's right - marketing. NOT because its games have 'gud grafix' or the fact that it has 8 gig of RAM.
Ehhh... I'm not really mad over this, TBH. This is quite clearly a parody made by someone who obviously admires the Zelda franchise. It actually looks quite slick.... Not that I'll ever actually play it.
Nintendo should focus its legal ire over those nasty apps that are filled with viruses and stolen art assets .
@DEAD There never was a graphical downgrade. The scene in question was originally shown in CGI, and was then remade using in-game assets. In fact, the game's graphics have actually improved since E3.
I certainly wouldn't complain if this is true. However, I also would prefer a Wii U port instead. The 3DS got the two N64 Zeldas - so it would make sense for the Wii U to have both GCN games.
With the delay of Zelda U, I can see Nintendo announcing Twilight Princess HD as an apology/stop-gap game at E3.
Really? They FINALLY decide to do this... AFTER it's announced the whole service will be ending, and AFTER I've spent the majority of my stars as a result?
Despite having the 'random reset' problem with a couple of machines, the console is still one of my all-time faves. It was just so beautifully designed, and the games were simply awesome - especially the Shenmue duo! God, I loved Ryo Hazuki's adventures; and they were light-years ahead of anything that could be found on PS2.
Unfortunately, Sonic Adventure has aged terribly (SA2 to a slightly lesser extent), but games like Soul Calibur, Jet Grind Radio, Power Stone and Skies of Arcadia are just as awesome as ever!
This game just looks better and better every time I see it.
Of course, there's no way to tell how well it'll sell - but in terms of quality, Xenoblade Chronicles X looks like it will thump any other game on rival formats. Just amazing!
Zelda Wii U is my most wanted game by far. Words can't express how excited I am for this!
The visuals look truly outstanding - especially compared to bland, glitchy dreck like Skyrim. Hell, I'll even go one further, and say that this game looks better than Witcher 3!
With this, Xenoblade Chronicles X, Mario Maker, Starfox, Yoshi's Woolly World, Splatoon and (hopefully) Devil's Third, this is going to be an amazing year for Wii U.
First of all, there were only three consoles where Nintendo emphasised raw horsepower; SNES, Nintendo 64 and Gamecube - and only one of them outsold the competition. The rest of them abided by Gunpei Yokoi's 'lateral thinking of withered technology'; particularly the handheld consoles. Fact: The majority of Nintendo's most successful machines were technologically weaker.
Second, there is most definitely a smaller gap between Wii U and PS4/Xbox One, than there was between Wii and PS3/Xbox 360. All three current consoles are HD this time around, and the visuals for Sony and Microsoft's offerings have been seen as disappointing. You say Nintendo uses outdated hardware? Newsflash - ALL consoles use outdated hardware. This is also a fact.
Finally, Iwata and Miyamoto are behind the times? I always have to laugh at such an absurd notion. Have you forgotten the Wii and DS? You know, the two consoles that uprooted the entire industry? What about Wii U and 3DS? Are you going to tell me that tablet-controllers and glasses-free 3D are the results of 'outdated' thinking? Whilst the ultra-conservative PS4 and Xbox One are somehow more innovative? Give me a break.
See, this is why I'm skeptical of any Zelda live-action film.
The games are whimsical fairytales - but translated to the silver screen, it just looks so damn goofy. I've seen many people try to play Link over the years, but it simply doesn't work. They simply copy the games' aesthetic, without really thinking if it's suitable for the filmic medium.
And that Navi voice made me shudder something fierce...
Who knows, maybe one day someone will get it right; but I'd be just as happy to stick with the games!
@LUIGITORNADO - Slamming Nintendo for focusing on the 'blue ocean' strategy, whilst admonishing them for being 'conservative'. That is the very definition of 'contradictory'.
What I'm getting from these comments: "WAAAAAHHHH!!! NINTENDO IS DOING SOMETHING DIFFERENT!!! WAAAAAHHHH!!!"
No wonder I don't come here as often as I used to.
@PlywoodStick - I think you're over-analysing this. By 'Game of Thrones', I'm pretty sure they just mean 'it'll be a fantasy'.
I gotta feel for Nintendo. On one side, we have analysts and stock holders pulling one arm whilst shouting "Expand IP! MONEY NAO!". Meanwhile, fans are clutching Nintendo's other limb and crying "Everything is terrible! DON'T DO EET!11!1"
They are caught between a rock and a hard place. Still, it's clear that the firm is at least willing to take a chance and experiment with movies (like the Kid Icarus and Pikmin shorts, as well as Animal Crossing), and hasn't fully abandoned the TV space (Kirby).
I said this when the potential Mario movie was revealed, and I'll say it again here; the biggest issue with all of this is the ideology that permeates Nintendo's franchises. They emphasise the role of the player (the 'experience'), whilst complicated storytelling is a secondary goal (unlike, say, Sony's games). I feel that turning them into non-interactive experiences will dilute their appeal.
How many comments are we on now? 455? Yikes, that's a big number.
I thought long and hard about what I was gonna say. There have been passionate arguments on both sides of the fence, and I was going to give my two cents on the whole matter...
...And then I read about all the new Xenoblade Chronicles X info, which made me realise that I truly, positively, 100%, don't give a crap about ANY of this rubbish. Nintendo does whatever Nintendo does. Maybe they're right - and maybe they're wrong. Maybe they're being smart - and maybe they're being dumb.
But what I truly care about... Is that XENOBLADE IS 300 HOURS GUYS. AND IT'S 400KM2. AND IT HAS TONNES OF OTHERS STUFF OMYGODINEEDITNOWGUHGUHGUGUGGUGUG
LOL, this is definitely not a case of horrid racism.
Even today, most Japanese people don't have the same Western mentality of what constitutes a 'racist' caricature - let alone in the pre-internet age. Some may call them ignorant - but I simply see them as culturally different.
Even if that WASN'T the case, this example isn't exactly 'Uncle Remus' material. Gaming back then was simpler and more innocent. The Zulu Mario is just a broad representation of African culture in a simplistic handheld game - surely that's nothing to rage about? If an Aussie Mario was pictured as a Crocodile Dundee-esque character, I know I wouldn't be offended!
Despite certain disappointments (no Moon or Mutant Mudds+ here in Aus, Cult County bungle) I'm still very much in support of Renegade Kid. Jools has always struck me as a great and honest developer, which is always welcome in today's industry!
Comments 540
Re: Devil's Third is Being Published by Nintendo of America in Q4, Also Coming to PC as 'Free-to-Start' Title
@gatorboi352 Yeah, THAT'S the reason. Nothing to do with the game being a disaster and that the PC version is a desperate attempt to recoup costs. Nope.
Calling others "children" doesn't help your case either.
Re: Tomonobu Itagaki Explains Why the Pro Controller Trumps the GamePad in Devil's Third
Damage control ahoy!
Re: First Impressions: Trying to Believe in Devil's Third
@Grumblevolcano Did you even read the article? The Wii U's power has nothing to do with the game's poor quality.
Re: Talking Point: Raw Power Isn't Vital to Nintendo's NX, But It Does Matter
@Kirk And who says Nintendo doesn't have high production values? Videogames are not movies - just because a game has sweeping panoramic shots, JJ Ambrams-esque lens flare and an obnoxious orchestrated soundtrack, doesn't make it somehow 'better presented' than a game like Mario or Star Fox.
The latter game in particular is ironic, because one of the things praised about that series was just HOW movie-like it was... So, if Star Fox Zero is exactly the same as its predecessors, does that mean it also is movie-like? Or is it actually a bare-bones experience, as you are implying?
"I can tell you this for pretty much a fact: If Star Fox Zero was the first ever Star Fox game, and it released today as basically the same game we've seen thus far in demos, then in 20 years time pretty much nobody would be talking about the Star Fox franchise and certainly not with any great love."
You're confusing fact with opinion. You haven't played Star Fox Zero. We don't even know how complete the game is. What a ridiculous claim.
"Designing modern hardware around that thinking too—that you don't need to instil a sense of awe, wonder and magic, or impress and excite consumers in any way beyond just a gimmick—is also where I think Nintendo is making the same kind of huge mistake over and over these days."
Really? Because from my experiences, Nintendo still designs the most immersive games of any company. The Mario Galaxy games were my favourites of last gen - and were the highest rated, too. It divided opinion, but I thought Skyward Sword was very captivating, too. A Link Between Worlds, Pikmin 3, Pokemon, Fire Emblem, Xenoblade - hell, even Animal Crossing - you're saying none of those are immersive?
"VR on the other hand will likely be the exact opposite of that however, imo; because once you get past the fact it's VR it doesn't change the other fact that it's a total paradigm shift in how you experience interactive media, more immersive than anything that has come before, and that's an actual game changer. It's like how going from 2D to 3D in video games was a game changer."
Umm... What? You criticise 3D for being a fad, and that you have to wear stupid headwear... Before praising VR - which has just as much chance of being a fad... Whilst wearing stupid headwear? To add, I'm not convinced VR will be anything extraordinary; like Warren Spector himself said, the tech creates a disconnect from reality - and some health experts believe having two HD screens strapped to your eyes is very detrimental to you. AR, on the other hand, is where the money is at, IMO.
"Nintendo can constantly try to do something totally "new" or it could just try to do the very best version of what generally already exists, and unless the "new" thing it tries is genuinely some kind of game changer and paradigm shift, like the move to 3D graphics was or the move to VR will likely be"
See, that's the thing - you can't tell if the 'new' thing WILL be a game-changer or a gimmick. That's the entire point of experimentation - failure is always a risk. The rewards, however, are huge. There's only so much you can do by constantly polishing what already exists - relying on such a method leads to market stagnation. Take 3D graphics you mentioned; back then, no-one knew if they would genuinely improve gaming - or if they would have just been (yes) a gimmick. Believe it or not, many thought gaming was perfect with 2D graphics, and were quick to point out the flaws of moving to 3D (cost, complexity, cumbersome, etc). Yet, Nintendo broke the mold with Mario 64 - whilst other 3D games were clumsy affairs. They experimented, and it paid off, and now virtually every 3D, 3rd-person videogame today is based on Mario 64's template. Also, the DS - Nintendo simply could have released a souped-up Game Boy, but they chose the dual-screen, touch based method. I remember virtually everyone scoffing at this, whilst proclaiming the death of Nintendo (my, how times have changed) and the dominance of the PSP. Look what happened, not only did the DS succeed, but it paved the way for smartphones and tablets. None of that would've happened if Nintendo simply 'refined' what already existed.
@Quorthon "You have apparently based this comment entirely on The Order 1886 and somehow failed to realize that cinematic titles like Witcher III, Telltale's games, Life is Strange, GTA, Metal Gear Solid, Far Cry 4, Tomb Raider, Alien Isolation, and numerous others have been performing extremely strongly. Hell, Witcher 3 basically outsold Mario Kart 8 in a month."
No. I based that comment on the increasing discontent that is rising from consumers due to the industry's obsession over pretty (and oftentimes fake) presentation in an effort to impress, whilst the gameplay turns out to barren and lifeless. Have not seen all the articles about the last couple of E3 shows, and how publishers were showcasing style over substance? Remember Watch_Dogs? Destiny? Titanfall? Evolve? AC Unity?
And as I said before, cinematic games and good gameplay are not mutually exclusive. I used The Order: 1886, because it represents everything with the 'graphics > gameplay' mentality that is flooding the 'Triple-A' industry. It is by no means the only game, but it is fallacy to say that Nintendo 'needs' to adopt this movie-like approach to its games. Such reverence for Hollywood reeks of desperation, and de-legitimises everything that videogames represent - and what their potential holds. There are so many different ways to tell a story - not just through cutscenes, but by DOING, which is what I've always liked about Nintendo games. The story isn't just the narrative - it's the way you interact with the world, and how you go about solving its puzzles.
To somehow say that such a method is 'outdated' is utterly asinine.
Also, that's a bizarrely random list of games there. They're all 'cinematic' in differing ways. Telltale's games are nothing like Far Cry 4, and Metal Gear Solid is nothing like Alien Isolation. I think you're confused.
Witcher 3 is no more 'movie-like' than Zelda. It sold more than Mario Kart 8? Wow, if only Witcher 3 wasn't available on three formats - compared to MK's home of 10 million Wii Us - I would have been shocked, otherwise!
Re: Talking Point: Raw Power Isn't Vital to Nintendo's NX, But It Does Matter
@Kirk - Well, take a look at the most popular games out there. Minecraft. Rust. Day-Z. All those Facebook and Smartphone apps. They're not exactly the most cinematic of games. Even Splatoon.
If anything, 'cinematic' games have gotten a bad reputation lately, due to the negative connotations of stinkers like The Order: 1886 and E3 bullshots. On top of that, games like Smash Bros, Mario Kart, Pokemon and Animal Crossing are all hugely successful - and I wouldn't exactly call them Kubrick-esque masterpieces.
I'm not saying all games SHOULDN'T be cinematic though - just that pure gameplay should always take precedence; and such a mindset is the reason why Nintendo's franchises have lasted for so long. It may not be as immediately 'flashy' as Hollywood-aping title, but they certainly last much, much longer in the minds of gamers. I doubt people will be talking about Uncharted in 20 years time like they way they do Mario or Zelda.
Re: Talking Point: Raw Power Isn't Vital to Nintendo's NX, But It Does Matter
People who are hoping that the NX will be some sort of powerhouse will very disappointed.
Competing with Sony and Microsoft with raw specs is the worst thing Nintendo could possibly do. History has shown - in the majority of console generations - that going down the 'power' route is a dangerous move. Even the SNES - while undoubtedly successful - was still beaten by the Genesis in North America. The current console generation is the only exception, so far.
Not to mention the practical dangers. Nintendo doesn't have the resources of its competitors; if they engage in the power game, what's to stop the other companies from constantly one-upping them? Such a road is a dangerous one - especially for a company that is so reliant of hardware profit.
Believe it or not, there are benefits of going down the 'weak' route. The lower costs enable more experimentation, not to mention a greater degree in profitability. That's why a title like Hyrule Warriors can 'only' sell a million units, and still be deemed successful. Contrast that to the Tomb Raider remake, which was apparently a flop, despite shifting 3.4 million copies!
One just needs to look at last gen as a lesson in the dangers of high development costs. Countless developers and publishers went bankrupt because of the PS3 and Xbox 360, and we're still seeing closures to the present day.
Now, that's not to say power is unimportant - or that Nintendo shouldn't pack some grunt under the hood. But rather, hardware specs shouldn't override innovation - and yes, that also means 'gimmicks'. Because innovation and gimmicks are one and the same - one cannot exist without the other. Failure is unavoidable in the pursuit of new successes, and Nintendo knows this. It has lasted for 126 years because of its refusal to stand still and just 'accept' things the way they were. Nintendo needs to be paranoid. It needs to keep trying new things, because it is dangerous to be complacent - especially for a relatively small company (compared to behemoths like Microsoft, Apple and Google).
Re: Shigeru Miyamoto Defends Star Fox Zero's Controls
If it's anything like Platinum's other games, replaying Star Fox will be incredibly fun. Generally, first-time plays serve as an 'introduction', with second runs acting as the meat and potatoes.
Combine this with the multiple storyline routes of Star Fox, and I can see Zero having a tonne of replay value.
Re: Nintendo Gets Tough With Miiverse Bans, and Some Users Aren't Exactly Pleased
BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
Re: Gold Mario amiibo Exclusive To Target Australia Sells Out Early Online
Disappearing quicker than GTAV...
Re: Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night Smashes Records and Hits All Stretch Goals
Phenomenal news! I'll be getting this on Wii U and Vita 😁
EDIT: 2017? The NX will probably be out by then... I wonder if they'll be willing to port it?
Re: Lego Jurassic World Pre-Order Freebies Coming To PlayStation and Xbox, But Not Wii U
@Alucard83 - First of all, the fact that Lego Jurassic World isn't receiving DLC on Wii U has NOTHING to do with the console's power. It's a financial reason. Justified or not, that's what it is.
Second of all - newsflash, ALL consoles are outdated technologically. Both the PS4 and Xbox One have weak tablet CPUs that are making it a chore for developers to hit 1080p and 60fps.
Even then, a console's specs have nothing to do with the quality of its software library or strength of sales.
PSOne, PS2, DS, Wii, 3DS, Game Boy - machines that all fended off technologically stronger competition with the right marketing and good games that appealed to a wide audience.
The reason why Wii U is doing terribly right now isn't because of 'power' - but rather, lousy marketing on behalf of Nintendo. Why do you think the PS4 is selling so well, despite its lack of killer software and price reductions? That's right - marketing. NOT because its games have 'gud grafix' or the fact that it has 8 gig of RAM.
Re: Lego Jurassic World Pre-Order Freebies Coming To PlayStation and Xbox, But Not Wii U
Remember guys, Nintendo gamers TOTALLY hate everything that isn't Mario or Zelda!
‘Bertil Horberg Shows off Gunman Clive’s Massive Success on the 3DS eShop, Compared to Other Platforms’
http://playeressence.com/bertil-horberg-shows-off-gunman-clives-massive-success-on-the-3ds-eshop-compared-to-other-platforms/
‘Retro City Rampage Made More Revenue On Nintendo 3DS Than Xbox 360’
http://mynintendonews.com/2014/04/05/retro-city-rampage-made-more-revenue-on-nintendo-3ds-than-xbox-360/
‘Developer Pleased with Sales of Retro City Rampage: DX on 3DS’
https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2015/05/developer_pleased_with_sales_of_retro_city_rampage_dx_on_3ds
‘Over 60% of Shovel Knights Sales come from Nintendo Platforms’
http://playeressence.com/over-60-of-shovel-knights-sales-come-from-nintendo-platforms/
'Splatoon is Selling out in Japan, Nintendo Issues Apology and Promises more Copies next week'
http://playeressence.com/splatoon-is-selling-out-in-japan-nintendo-issues-apology-and-promises-more-copies-next-week/
@letsplay Yeah, and Nintendo should flush all their cash down the company toilets while they're at it.
Re: Final Fantasy Wasn't Named For The Reason You Think
Everything I know is a lie.
First asexual Toads, and now this?
Re: Lego Jurassic World Pre-Order Freebies Coming To PlayStation and Xbox, But Not Wii U
@liveswired Yep. Well, aside from all those Wii U games that have DLC. Derp.
Re: Developer Pleased with Sales of Retro City Rampage: DX on 3DS
Hot damn! Some POSITIVE 3rd party news for a change!
Re: Weirdness: Former My Chemical Romance Frontman Can't Get Enough Of Zelda: Wind Waker
Zelda is awesome.
Don't argue. It's scientific fact.
Re: Nintendo Share Value Increases With Profits and Smart Device Gaming on the Agenda
@Nintendude789 Thanks for that fascinating insight.
Re: Project Giant Robot Will Be Out Sooner Than You Probably Expect
Hmm, I thought this was going to be incorporated into Starfox in some fashion.
Either way, I'm excited to try this - I thought Project Giant Robot was quite overlooked at last year's E3. The sumo-esque gameplay looked brilliant!
Re: The Legend of Zeldo: Lonk's Awakening is an iOS Flappy Bird Clone, and an Abomination
Ehhh... I'm not really mad over this, TBH. This is quite clearly a parody made by someone who obviously admires the Zelda franchise. It actually looks quite slick.... Not that I'll ever actually play it.
Nintendo should focus its legal ire over those nasty apps that are filled with viruses and stolen art assets .
Re: Gallery: Feast Your Eyeballs on These Xenoblade Chronicles X Wallpapers
@Dryden They're called Skells in the Western version.
@Shyguyanonymous LOL
Re: Gallery: Get Hot Under the Collar in the Continent Of Black Steel in Xenoblade Chronicles X
@DEAD There never was a graphical downgrade. The scene in question was originally shown in CGI, and was then remade using in-game assets. In fact, the game's graphics have actually improved since E3.
Re: Nintendo UK's James Honeywell Wins The MCV Unsung Hero Award 2015
Congratulations to James Honeywell.
But... At the risk of sounding nasty, maybe he should step aside, as Nintendo sales have been terrible in the UK for a long time.
Re: Social Networks Go Into Meltdown Over Apparent The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess 3D Rumour
I certainly wouldn't complain if this is true. However, I also would prefer a Wii U port instead. The 3DS got the two N64 Zeldas - so it would make sense for the Wii U to have both GCN games.
With the delay of Zelda U, I can see Nintendo announcing Twilight Princess HD as an apology/stop-gap game at E3.
Re: Nintendo Australia Lists eShop Offerings Redeemable Via Club Nintendo Stars Catalogue
Really? They FINALLY decide to do this... AFTER it's announced the whole service will be ending, and AFTER I've spent the majority of my stars as a result?
Bravo, NOA. Just... Bravo.
Re: Hardware Classics: Sega Dreamcast
Ah, Dramcast.
Despite having the 'random reset' problem with a couple of machines, the console is still one of my all-time faves. It was just so beautifully designed, and the games were simply awesome - especially the Shenmue duo! God, I loved Ryo Hazuki's adventures; and they were light-years ahead of anything that could be found on PS2.
Unfortunately, Sonic Adventure has aged terribly (SA2 to a slightly lesser extent), but games like Soul Calibur, Jet Grind Radio, Power Stone and Skies of Arcadia are just as awesome as ever!
Re: Hands On: Hitting the Tracks in Mario Kart 8 DLC Pack 2 and 200cc Mode
Note to 2K and WB Games: THIS is how you do DLC.
Re: Feature: The Final Xenoblade Chronicles X Presentation - Dolls and Online Features
This game just looks better and better every time I see it.
Of course, there's no way to tell how well it'll sell - but in terms of quality, Xenoblade Chronicles X looks like it will thump any other game on rival formats. Just amazing!
Re: Xenoblade Chronicles X Will Use Downloadable Data Packs To Expedite Loading Times
@Spoony_Tech The Japanese version is 22.7 gb
https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2015/02/xenoblade_chronicles_x_eshop_page_points_to_online_co-op_and_interactions_also_confirms_hefty_file_size
I'd wager the Western version won't be too different - though it could be bigger, considering the multiple languages it may pack.
Re: Digital Foundry Puts Splatoon's 60fps Promise to the Test
Really cool (albeit unsurprising) news.
Nintendo games run fantastically, and the 'feel' of their mechanics is simply unparalleled.
It's pretty much expected that big games like Xenoblade X and Zelda U will be 720p and 30 fps - but even then, they'll run as smooth as butter 😊
Re: Feature: The Legend of Zelda on Wii U - What Do We Know So Far?
Zelda Wii U is my most wanted game by far. Words can't express how excited I am for this!
The visuals look truly outstanding - especially compared to bland, glitchy dreck like Skyrim. Hell, I'll even go one further, and say that this game looks better than Witcher 3!
With this, Xenoblade Chronicles X, Mario Maker, Starfox, Yoshi's Woolly World, Splatoon and (hopefully) Devil's Third, this is going to be an amazing year for Wii U.
Re: Feature: Before They Were Enemies, Sega And Nintendo Worked On One Of The Rarest Arcade Games Ever Made
Fantastic article, Darren!
I love reading stories like this - I'm a sucker for anything retro!
Oh, and I hate to be a Corrective Carl, but Sega and Nintendo worked together on F-Zero GX and AX
Re: Gallery: The Natives Are Most Definitely Hostile In Cube Life's Survival Mode
BEEOOOOOPPP
BEEOOOOOPPP
RACIAL INSENSITIVITY ALERT
BEEOOOOOPPP
BEEOOOOOPPP
Re: Video: Fan Manages to Port F-Zero to the Mega Drive
@DESS-M-8 Dude, just stop.
First of all, there were only three consoles where Nintendo emphasised raw horsepower; SNES, Nintendo 64 and Gamecube - and only one of them outsold the competition. The rest of them abided by Gunpei Yokoi's 'lateral thinking of withered technology'; particularly the handheld consoles. Fact: The majority of Nintendo's most successful machines were technologically weaker.
Second, there is most definitely a smaller gap between Wii U and PS4/Xbox One, than there was between Wii and PS3/Xbox 360. All three current consoles are HD this time around, and the visuals for Sony and Microsoft's offerings have been seen as disappointing. You say Nintendo uses outdated hardware? Newsflash - ALL consoles use outdated hardware. This is also a fact.
Finally, Iwata and Miyamoto are behind the times? I always have to laugh at such an absurd notion. Have you forgotten the Wii and DS? You know, the two consoles that uprooted the entire industry? What about Wii U and 3DS? Are you going to tell me that tablet-controllers and glasses-free 3D are the results of 'outdated' thinking? Whilst the ultra-conservative PS4 and Xbox One are somehow more innovative? Give me a break.
Re: Short Fan Film is Set to Chronicle the Final Battle Between Link and Ganondorf
Uuurrrgggg...
See, this is why I'm skeptical of any Zelda live-action film.
The games are whimsical fairytales - but translated to the silver screen, it just looks so damn goofy. I've seen many people try to play Link over the years, but it simply doesn't work. They simply copy the games' aesthetic, without really thinking if it's suitable for the filmic medium.
And that Navi voice made me shudder something fierce...
Who knows, maybe one day someone will get it right; but I'd be just as happy to stick with the games!
Re: Unity 5 Development Engine Launches, Includes Wii U Support
@Monado_III Second last square, top row.
Re: Nintendo's 1993 Style Guide Proves That Everything Revolves Around Princess Peach
Little known fact; Magikoopa's favourite word is considered really mean in the UK
Re: Meme Run Disappears from the Wii U eShop
@XCWarrior - I dunno. This is the same company that bought Minecraft for $2 billion.
Never underestimate Microsoft's stupidity.
Re: Trashmania Trilogy Developer Unsure Of Wii U eShop Title’s Future
@Animan13 Coming from a novelist, I know first hand what a pain in the ass marketing is. I should've hired an agent 😅
Anyway, whatever it is you're going through, just know that I'm rooting for you. Think positively, and don't give up on your dreams! You can do it!
Re: Feature: A Summary of the Xenoblade Chronicles X Presentation and What We Learned About Its World
@Dryden - That's just a default model. You create your own character in this game.
Re: Satoru Iwata Reiterates Plans for Quality of Life Platform, and Suggests Potential Moves Into Education
@LUIGITORNADO - Slamming Nintendo for focusing on the 'blue ocean' strategy, whilst admonishing them for being 'conservative'. That is the very definition of 'contradictory'.
What I'm getting from these comments: "WAAAAAHHHH!!! NINTENDO IS DOING SOMETHING DIFFERENT!!! WAAAAAHHHH!!!"
No wonder I don't come here as often as I used to.
Re: Live-Action Netflix Series For The Legend of Zelda is Reportedly in Development
@PlywoodStick - I think you're over-analysing this. By 'Game of Thrones', I'm pretty sure they just mean 'it'll be a fantasy'.
I gotta feel for Nintendo. On one side, we have analysts and stock holders pulling one arm whilst shouting "Expand IP! MONEY NAO!". Meanwhile, fans are clutching Nintendo's other limb and crying "Everything is terrible! DON'T DO EET!11!1"
They are caught between a rock and a hard place. Still, it's clear that the firm is at least willing to take a chance and experiment with movies (like the Kid Icarus and Pikmin shorts, as well as Animal Crossing), and hasn't fully abandoned the TV space (Kirby).
I said this when the potential Mario movie was revealed, and I'll say it again here; the biggest issue with all of this is the ideology that permeates Nintendo's franchises. They emphasise the role of the player (the 'experience'), whilst complicated storytelling is a secondary goal (unlike, say, Sony's games). I feel that turning them into non-interactive experiences will dilute their appeal.
Still, I could be surprised. Maybe it'll be good.
Re: Weirdness: There's an Awesome Super Mario Bros. World 1-1 Easter Egg in Dying Light
Heh, that's awesome.
Nice to see non-Nintendo devs display some Mario love!
Re: YouTube Stars Aren't Happy With Nintendo's Revenue-Sharing 'Creators Program'
How many comments are we on now? 455? Yikes, that's a big number.
I thought long and hard about what I was gonna say. There have been passionate arguments on both sides of the fence, and I was going to give my two cents on the whole matter...
...And then I read about all the new Xenoblade Chronicles X info, which made me realise that I truly, positively, 100%, don't give a crap about ANY of this rubbish. Nintendo does whatever Nintendo does. Maybe they're right - and maybe they're wrong. Maybe they're being smart - and maybe they're being dumb.
But what I truly care about... Is that XENOBLADE IS 300 HOURS GUYS. AND IT'S 400KM2. AND IT HAS TONNES OF OTHERS STUFF OMYGODINEEDITNOWGUHGUHGUGUGGUGUG
Re: Video: YouTube's Gaming Historian Takes Offense At One Element Of Mario's Game Boy Past
LOL, this is definitely not a case of horrid racism.
Even today, most Japanese people don't have the same Western mentality of what constitutes a 'racist' caricature - let alone in the pre-internet age. Some may call them ignorant - but I simply see them as culturally different.
Even if that WASN'T the case, this example isn't exactly 'Uncle Remus' material. Gaming back then was simpler and more innocent. The Zulu Mario is just a broad representation of African culture in a simplistic handheld game - surely that's nothing to rage about? If an Aussie Mario was pictured as a Crocodile Dundee-esque character, I know I wouldn't be offended!
Re: Weirdness: Yoshi's Island is Rather Different When Recreated in First-Person
Super Paper Mario isn't CG? You learn somethin' new every day...
On topic; meh. Looks nice - but that's about it.
Re: Ninterview: Learning Retro Secrets With A Former Nintendo Game Play Counselor
What a fantastic interview, Darren!
I really loved reading that. Great job!
Re: Weirdness: Meet The Studybox, The Famicom's Audio Edutainment System
Wow, that's pretty neat. I've never heard of this before!
Re: Weirdness: Apparently Wario Was Mario's Childhood Friend and Bowser "Could Not Stand the Idea of Happy Fungi"
Peach uses magic to keep her clothes clean?
She would've had a lot of fun in Salem...
Re: Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from Nintendo Life
Merry Christmas to Nintendo Life, and the NL community!
The big day is actually pretty much done here is Aus, so I hope my friends across the pond are still having an awesome day!
To 2015!
Re: Feature: A Year in Development - Renegade Kid
Cool interview!
Despite certain disappointments (no Moon or Mutant Mudds+ here in Aus, Cult County bungle) I'm still very much in support of Renegade Kid. Jools has always struck me as a great and honest developer, which is always welcome in today's industry!