@grumblebuzzz - After so many legendary games, Miyamoto is allowed to do what he wants - he is literally the greatest game maker of all time, IMO.
Also, he has made it known that he has taken a backseat to the younger talent at Nintendo. He is trying to foster their creative talent, and is not resting "on his laurels".
A 10/10 for me personally. This was such an important game.
In a way, The Legend of Zelda is like an 8-bit Skyrim; go anywhere, do anything...it was tough, yes, but that just made it seem like an even bigger adventure - adventures are supposed to be HARD! Back in 1987, it really captured the essence of being a hero; and again showed why Nintendo are such great pioneers in videogame structure and design.
That being said, I'm ashamed to say I still haven't finished Zelda II...
There's no unrealistic expectations on my part...I'm just expecting a solid game (and considering I've enjoyed 'poor' Wii games such as Conduit 2, Cursed Mountain and Disaster: Day of Crisis, I think I'll be okay).
Also, I'm glad that I'm supporting a new IP for Ganbarion and Nintendo, just like I did for Xenoblade and Last Story!
I've never played Angry Birds (not an iZombie), and I probably never will. Still, it's cool to see Miyamoto admire a game on a device that people said Nintendo 'didn't get'; though I wonder if Angry Birds was one of those games that Iwata said was 'devaluing' the philosophy of game making...
I still laugh when Miyamoto said he could've made Halo, but "didn't want too"
@James - It's weird...Capcom continue to make horrendous decisions (Mega Man, DLC, etc.), yet they continue to make awesome games that look purdy & are a ton of fun to play (see SSFIV & Revelations on 3DS). This trend looks set to continue with the trifecta of Resident Evil 6, Devil May Cry (get over it, haters), and Dragon's Dogma...I want to buy all of them...but I'll just have to ignore any DLC that will inevitably arrive.
@spawningblue - That's odd, considering Gearbox said the Wii U version would be "one of the best looking" (though that statement could be interpreted in many ways).
But...the Wii U version isn't a port? Or maybe it IS a port...its just that Chris Faylor is just trolling with his idiosyncrasies ...
I said "I hope people's expectations aren't too high", because when Nintendo reveal the actual power of the console - I am more than willing to bet the 'fanboys' will instantly dismiss it as a failure and once again idiotically proclaim to death of Nintendo.
That's not MY logic. That's my observation based on the mouth-breathing, knuckle-dragging 'hardcore gamers' that pollute the internet with their ill-informed drivel whilst making E3 an even bigger willy-waving contest than it already is.
The Wii U may be more powerful than the current gen...or it may not be. I'm not insulting the Wii U by insinuating that people should lower their expectations regarding the actual console - just its 'power' (to use a broad term). Your use of the term "subpar" intrigues me though...how does one measure "subpar"? How powerful is the Wii U supposed to be - in order to not be "subpar"?
@repplyguy67 - Actually, it's been pretty much confirmed that the Wii U tablet will not be able to leave the house whilst the console is sending the game information to it (but hey, E3 may thow out a surprise or two).
Still, Nintendo have plenty of ideas for the tablet controller. I'd love for it to be able to hold saves and DLC titles, as well as having some sort of 'streetpass' and 'spotpass' functionality like 3DS.
Tastes salty...but plausible, given Nintendo's desire to avoid a 3DS-style blunder.
I just hope that people's expectations won't be too high when the Wii U's specs will be finally revealed...I think it's very possible that Nintendo have been forced to scale back the hardware capability since last year (when most of the positive comments about the console's power were made) to accomodate cost and to ensure reliable tablet streaming tech. Regardless, I'm still supremely excited about the machine!
@sdcazares1980 - Yeah, I suppose you have a point. Its been evident that gigantic 3rd parties such as EA, Activision and Ubisoft have made record profits with IPs such as Assassin's Creed and Call of Duty. Guys like those have seemingly limitless cash-flow...
I guess the ball really is in Nintendo's court when it comes to 3rd party support...I wonder what developers like Tim Schafer think about the potential cost of the next-generation...
@sdcazares1980 - Well...not necassarily. The development cost of AAA games of the current generation are insane, and I bet 3rd parties are shuddering at the thought of how much resources would be required for the PS4/Xbox Next. If Nintendo can establish a strong Wii U user base early, and IF the machine's power is adequate enough, and IF the cost of making games for it is right...well, I can see 3rd parties flocking to Nintendo's system in droves.
'Lateral thinking of withered technology' - A philosophy employed by the late, great Gunpei Yokoi, and one that is still used by Nintendo today. I think it's safe to say following that mantra has served them well.
Of course, visuals are important - I don't think anyone's denying that; but gameplay will always be first priority for The Big N.
I am seriously excited for the Wii U. I still get goosebumbs thinking about how I can continue my gaming sessions on the HD tablet controller...WITHOUT THE TV.
"Trying to catch up with Sony and Microsoft is irrelevant beyond belief at this point. Nintendo's road diverged a long time ago, and now it seems wiser to simply carry on ahead."
This is a quote from John Dean of CVG - and one I kinda agree with. Yes, Nintendo desire the support from 3rd parties, strong online and media support (such as Netflix).
At the end of the day though, it's clear that Nintendo follow a different creative and ideological philosophy than Sony, Microsoft or Apple.
Even then, I still doubt that Wii U is 'weaker' than PS3 and Xbox 360, as there have been so many developer claims to the contrary. Can't wait for E3.
"The still also scores bonus points for including Scrooge McDuck from DuckTales, reinforcing our long-held belief that all games would be better with more Scrooge McDuck".
Here we go...it's time for another round of 'Wii U = weak stopgap console' gibberish!
@Magic-Wind - You have the right idea, dude. Yes, it'll be likely that the Wii U will be 'weaker' than Sony and Microsoft's new consoles...but I honestly don't give a toss, to be frank. Visuals won't be getting much better than the stuff we have now...and when it eventually hits complete photorealism, then what? In my mind, the future of videogames is not pure polygon-power, but creating immersive and interactive worlds to get lost in.
I mean, how many console games today boast incredible graphics? A lot.
How many of those games have a rich, interactive world on par with those aforementioned graphics? Errr...
Assassin's Creed III, Killer Freaks from Outer Space and Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Online...those sound like great titles...but I'm still waiting for the deluge of that crappy Ubisoft shovelware we all know and love!
Come on guys, I'm craving a 23rd version of Rayman 2!
I'm so sick of these iOS developers constantly nipping at the heels of Iwata and Nintendo. The main dude from PopCap even had the gall to say that Nintendo should stop making hardware.
And now this Ben Cousins tool suggests that Nintendo (and the other console makers) cannot adopt a freemium model because they are "inexperienced" and "scared"?
News flash, Mr. Cousins - Nintendo have experimented with a 'freemium' model back in the NES/SNES days - where they offered downladable games online (yes, online & DLC - years before Playstation and Xbox).
@Aviator - I disagree. Nintendo are obviously doing something right when one looks at the phenomenal success of the Wii & DS (and the desperate attempts of imitation by Sony and Microsoft suggest they also agree).
Nintendo makes its first loss in 30 years, and people proclaim doom of the 120 year old company...ridiculous. According to Nintendo Gamer magazine, Nintendo have ¥812.8 billion in their pocket - enough to take a ¥20 billion loss every year until 2052. They also own ¥469 billion worth of "premises, equipment and investments" - which wouldn't run out until 2075. Even after all that, they would still have all their valuable IP to sell before going out of business.
Sometimes I feel as though people act butt-hurt because Nintendo love to cause 'disruption' within the industry...
Since it's coming to HD consoles, I wonder if we'll see a Wii U version?
No matter what system it'll be on, I can't wait to play this. The 'musical' aspect sounds pretty cool!
EDIT: @Strongo9 - Epic Mickey 2 was never going to be a Wii exclusive. With the dissapointing sales of the first one, one can hardly blame Junction Point for releasing the sequel on multiple consoles.
For those who haven't, go and read Sakurai's interview on the Iwata Asks site. His philosophy on deconstructing traditional gaming structures is incredibly interesting!
@3 - Was gonna say the same thing. Mario 3D Land was robbed - it was a NEW game that sucessfully created a hybrid of Mario 2D/3D gameplay.
@vonseux - I agree. LittleBig Planet 2 (as great as it is) is just that - a sequel. Yes, it had innovative new features - but Skyward Sword did something that many thought was impossible; not only did it make motion controls great, but it made them BETTER than the traditional button layout...a mighty innovation, in my book. In comparison to SS's fluid & cerebral swordplay, button mashers like Skyrim and Kingdoms of Alamur look mighty dated, IMHO. Just wait; 3rd party developers are copying Skyward Sword for their games as we speak...
@22 - At the risk of sounding like an irational fanboy, I agree. When I heard the nominations for the BAFTAS were open, I literally rolled my eyes...I even said to myself, "I wonder what Unreal Engine-powered, linear, generic AAA game will win this year?"
I'm sorry if that sounds cynical...but it's just how I feel. The BAFTAS, like the Spike VGAs and the Golden Joysticks, always seem to favour what's 'popular', instead of actually opening their eyes and looking beyond the glut of $100 million blockbusters that permeate popular gaming culture today. Don't get me wrong...games like Mass Effect 3, Portal 2 and Skyrim are fine...but it seems as though (and I've said this many times before) that the 'popular' gaming media seem to have this underlying vendetta against Nintendo...because their games don't fit the 'dudebro' mentality of today's youth. Sure, they'll smile and nod when talking about Mario or Zelda - but you know they'd much rather be talking about the next Call of Duty or Gran Theft Auto, because they have 'teh grafix'.
Ultimately though, as squashiejoshie so finely put it - who cares about some vapid trophy. As long as Nintendo's games gain praise by their fans and sell adequetly...that'll be enough.
"...feedback from testing indicated that single-player Resident Evil was scarier"
Wow, really? /sarcasm
The last-minute inclusion of Sheva in Resident Evil 5 sucked big time. Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed the game (mostly) - but it was obvious it had far more potential. When it was first revealed, Capcom talked up the fact that the sun & heat would play a big part in scaring the player (which actually sounded awesome); but somewhere along the way (probably when "RACISM!" was stupidly squaked), they were forced to back-peddle and redesign chunks of the game.
I'm thankful Revelations turned out as well as it did.
At the risk of sounding like a fence-sitter, I would say both Japanese and Western developers/publishers have their issues.
I don't think Japanese developers have an issue with games quality; rather, I believe the main trouble that is plaguing them is somewhat due to an identity crisis. I mean, from my experience, Japanese games are just as good as Western titles - it's just that lately they seem confused as to what they're trying to be. Titles such as Shadows of the Damned & Binary Domain strive to emulate the popular Western 3rd person shooter (even though the Japanese Resident Evil 4 practically reinvented the genre) - which causes a disconnect with me personally.
Vanquish, Bayonetta & Street Fighter IV- now THOSE are games the Japanese should be proud of. They take an established genre and infuse them with an urgency and flair only the Land of the Rising Sun can provide. Additional titles that deserve to be mentioned are Dark Souls, Okami, Little King's Story, & Resident Evil 4.
Oh, and I haven't forgotten about Nintendo, of course. They have remained a constant bastion of innovation amid the the seas of Japanese game development. It seems as though they exist in their own bubble, and are unnaffected by the cultural issues of their country - maybe they can give a few pointers to their peers?
@8 - I really wouldn't consider those games 'shovelware'. IMO, Wii Music was a misunderstood game, and was a real experiment for Miyamoto, who wanted to shed the image of a 'traditional' videogame. As for Wii Play: just because it was minigame-based doesn't mean it was a cynical cash-in. For only $5 - $10, it was a great little extra for the Wii Remote.
@18 - Yeah, I was gonna say that Sony's PSN hack alone far outweighs most 'mistakes' committed by Nintendo.
@68 - The art style for Wind Waker was ANYTHING but a mistake.
Nintendo has made many mistakes, sure, but they pale in comparison to all the joy they have brought to gamers. As warioswoods has so expertly identified; the N64 catridges weren't a flat out blunder on Nintendo's part - they had pros as well as cons. Yes, they quite possibly led to a decreased market share as well as the abandonment of many 3rd parties; but they also provided streamlined game experiences such as Mario 64, Zelda: Ocarina of Time & Majora's Mask, Conker's Bad Fur Day, Turok 1 2 & 3, Perfect Dark, Donkey Kong 64 and Banjo Kazooie & Tooie (can you imagine large & graphically detailed games like them running load-free on a single PSOne disc?) Besides, I've always preferred real-time cutscenes to FMV...
@84 - Tell me about it. Time and time again, I highlight the sheer amount of great games on the Wii - yet people continue to spew the "Wii = no games" line. Sigh...
Regarding the 'Wii Wasteland' bit - yes, it was unfortunate that Nintendo gained the 'casual' stigma; but was it THEIR mistake? No, it was mainly the 3rd parties. Yes, Nintendo did release faminly friendly software such as Wii Fit & Wii Sports - but they also released masterpieces such as Mario Galaxy 1 & 2, Zelda: Twilight Princess & Skyward Sword, Smash Bros Brawl, Mario Kart Wii, Kirby's Epic Yarn, New Super Mario Bros. Wii, Wario Land: Shake It!, Punch Out!!, Metroid Prime Trilogy & Metroid: Other M.
The Virtual Boy? Yeah, that was a hell of a doozy...Though it should be noted that Gunpei Yokoi never actually finished it properly; but the greedy Nintendo execs released it anyway before having the gall to blame its failure on him...that, in my opinion, was Nintendo's biggest (and most shameful) mistake ever.
Other big mistakes by Nintendo (IMHO) are:
GCN/GBA Connectivity Censoring of certain titles (notably Devil World & Mortal Kombat) 3DS Launch Original GBA screen not having a backlight Not making Wii HD (though I can certainly see their reasons, citing extra cost, etc.) Mario Party/N64 joystick destruction Power Glove Region Locking (though there are both pros & cons for this)
Initially, I didn't give Mario Part 9 much thought; but after reading the changes it has introduced, I may actually end up getting it after all. It sounds lke it'd be a riot to play with my bro!
I'm gonna download this game first opportunity I get!
Dillon's Rolling Western, Pullbox, Steel Diver & Freakyforms - all great original games by Nintendo...look out for the haters to completely ignore this and to continue attacking the company for recycling the same franchises...
@41 - Dude, it's not for kids. Didn't you see the rating? Comic Mischief, Fantasy Violence AND Mild Suggestive Themes! This game'll make Manhunt look like Sesame Street...
/sarcasm
Seriously though, a game for everyone doesn't automatically classify as a 'kids' game, but hey, you're entitled to your opinion.
@11 - Yeah, I caught that reference too! Maybe the next Smash Bros. will have Power Stone-esque combat...
I have both an Xbox 360 & PS3, and I could not care less about Achievements/Trophies.
Now, don't get me wrong - when they're done right, they're a great little bonus for videogames. I'd be lying if I said I didn't gain any satisfaction whenever I heard the familiar 'ping' sound of an accomplishment...but I am not ruled by them. I flat-out refuse to be.
Miyamoto was right in expressing doubt over the Achievment/Trophy system. The FUN of playing a videogame should be the reward - NOT some arbitrary points for bragging rights. An engrossing game should stand on its OWN merits - and I've always aprreciated and respected Nintendo for following this philosophy (despite the protestations of most gamers).
Unfortunately, it looks as though Nintendo will be giving in to the peer pressure by incorporating the 'Accomplishment' system; as already seen in 3DS, and likely in Wii U.
Again, the Achievement/Trophy system can be great if used right...I just hope that Nintendo realise that they should be a SECONDARY incentive for playing games, not the primary reason.
Comments 540
Re: Frank West and Hsien-Ko Join Project X Zone
@zenarium - Whoah, I didn't know you played it!
Re: Real Life Skyward Sword Controls Don't Work
Heh. I like Mega 64.
Still, despite the occasional annoyance, I was fine with Skyward's controls...in fact, I feel like playing it now...
Re: "Too Many Hurdles" to Ni No Kuni DS Translation
Damn.
Oh well, at least we still get the PS3 version (which is...actually the version I was going to get anyway).
Re: Feature: Super Mario on Wii U - Crowd Pleaser or Game Changer?
Crowd Pleaser AND Game Changer.
Just like every other Mario game.
Re: Miyamoto Working on "Small, Important" Wii U Projects
@grumblebuzzz - After so many legendary games, Miyamoto is allowed to do what he wants - he is literally the greatest game maker of all time, IMO.
Also, he has made it known that he has taken a backseat to the younger talent at Nintendo. He is trying to foster their creative talent, and is not resting "on his laurels".
Re: Review: The Legend of Zelda (3DS eShop / NES)
@Haywired - Well, LoZ was a game unlike any other at the time, so of course Nintendo provided a guide to help.
Just like how instructions were provided with every other game. That's just common sense.
There's a difference between 'instructions' and 'hand-holding'.
Re: Review: The Legend of Zelda (3DS eShop / NES)
A 10/10 for me personally. This was such an important game.
In a way, The Legend of Zelda is like an 8-bit Skyrim; go anywhere, do anything...it was tough, yes, but that just made it seem like an even bigger adventure - adventures are supposed to be HARD! Back in 1987, it really captured the essence of being a hero; and again showed why Nintendo are such great pioneers in videogame structure and design.
That being said, I'm ashamed to say I still haven't finished Zelda II...
Re: Feature: The Odd One Out in Operation Rainfall
My special edition is in the mail
There's no unrealistic expectations on my part...I'm just expecting a solid game (and considering I've enjoyed 'poor' Wii games such as Conduit 2, Cursed Mountain and Disaster: Day of Crisis, I think I'll be okay).
Also, I'm glad that I'm supporting a new IP for Ganbarion and Nintendo, just like I did for Xenoblade and Last Story!
Re: Miyamoto: "Angry Birds Would Have Been Better on DS"
@expa0 - Oh yeah, I've also seen some facepalm worthy comments today...* cough *
Re: Miyamoto: "Angry Birds Would Have Been Better on DS"
Oh, that's cool. My mistake.
EDIT: @expa0 - Are you serious? You have no 'respect' for Miyamoto? Why, because he made Wii Music?
Re: Miyamoto: "Angry Birds Would Have Been Better on DS"
@Aviator - Are you replying to me?
Since when did I say Angry Birds wasn't a 'true game'? I just don't like Apple.
Re: Miyamoto: "Angry Birds Would Have Been Better on DS"
I've never played Angry Birds (not an iZombie), and I probably never will. Still, it's cool to see Miyamoto admire a game on a device that people said Nintendo 'didn't get'; though I wonder if Angry Birds was one of those games that Iwata said was 'devaluing' the philosophy of game making...
I still laugh when Miyamoto said he could've made Halo, but "didn't want too"
Re: Capcom: "No Plans for Resident Evil 6 Wii U At This Time"
@Sony_70 - Brilliant!
@James - It's weird...Capcom continue to make horrendous decisions (Mega Man, DLC, etc.), yet they continue to make awesome games that look purdy & are a ton of fun to play (see SSFIV & Revelations on 3DS). This trend looks set to continue with the trifecta of Resident Evil 6, Devil May Cry (get over it, haters), and Dragon's Dogma...I want to buy all of them...but I'll just have to ignore any DLC that will inevitably arrive.
EDIT: Anyone with doubts about Resident Evil 6 should read this:
http://www.nowgamer.com/ps3/ps3-previews/1316881/resident_evil_6_3_playable_campaigns_weskers_son_the_death_of_tank_controls_what_you_need_to_know.html
The game really does sound awesome, IMO.
Re: Suda51 Still Waiting for His Wii U Dev Kit
@irken004 - Someone must've accidentally played the reverse Song of Time...he's taking too long!
Re: Aliens: Colonial Marines Wii U Definitely "Not a Port"
@spawningblue - That's odd, considering Gearbox said the Wii U version would be "one of the best looking" (though that statement could be interpreted in many ways).
But...the Wii U version isn't a port? Or maybe it IS a port...its just that Chris Faylor is just trolling with his idiosyncrasies ...
Re: Rumour: Wii U Components Cost $180, Will Retail at $300
@Myx - Are you referring to my first comment?
I said "I hope people's expectations aren't too high", because when Nintendo reveal the actual power of the console - I am more than willing to bet the 'fanboys' will instantly dismiss it as a failure and once again idiotically proclaim to death of Nintendo.
That's not MY logic. That's my observation based on the mouth-breathing, knuckle-dragging 'hardcore gamers' that pollute the internet with their ill-informed drivel whilst making E3 an even bigger willy-waving contest than it already is.
The Wii U may be more powerful than the current gen...or it may not be. I'm not insulting the Wii U by insinuating that people should lower their expectations regarding the actual console - just its 'power' (to use a broad term). Your use of the term "subpar" intrigues me though...how does one measure "subpar"? How powerful is the Wii U supposed to be - in order to not be "subpar"?
Re: Rumour: Wii U Components Cost $180, Will Retail at $300
@repplyguy67 - Actually, it's been pretty much confirmed that the Wii U tablet will not be able to leave the house whilst the console is sending the game information to it (but hey, E3 may thow out a surprise or two).
Still, Nintendo have plenty of ideas for the tablet controller. I'd love for it to be able to hold saves and DLC titles, as well as having some sort of 'streetpass' and 'spotpass' functionality like 3DS.
Re: Rumour: Wii U Components Cost $180, Will Retail at $300
Tastes salty...but plausible, given Nintendo's desire to avoid a 3DS-style blunder.
I just hope that people's expectations won't be too high when the Wii U's specs will be finally revealed...I think it's very possible that Nintendo have been forced to scale back the hardware capability since last year (when most of the positive comments about the console's power were made) to accomodate cost and to ensure reliable tablet streaming tech. Regardless, I'm still supremely excited about the machine!
I can't wait for E3!
Re: Rumour: ViviTouch to Demo Wii U Haptics Tech at E3
It'd be awesome if the Wii U tablet incorporated such tech...
...but how much more expensive would that make it?
Re: Sonic Designer Hirokazu Yasuhara Joins Nintendo
My feet are freezing!
Must be chilly down there in Hell...
Re: Talking Point: Is Wii U's Power Really That Important?
@sdcazares1980 - Yeah, I suppose you have a point. Its been evident that gigantic 3rd parties such as EA, Activision and Ubisoft have made record profits with IPs such as Assassin's Creed and Call of Duty. Guys like those have seemingly limitless cash-flow...
I guess the ball really is in Nintendo's court when it comes to 3rd party support...I wonder what developers like Tim Schafer think about the potential cost of the next-generation...
Re: Talking Point: Is Wii U's Power Really That Important?
@sdcazares1980 - Well...not necassarily. The development cost of AAA games of the current generation are insane, and I bet 3rd parties are shuddering at the thought of how much resources would be required for the PS4/Xbox Next. If Nintendo can establish a strong Wii U user base early, and IF the machine's power is adequate enough, and IF the cost of making games for it is right...well, I can see 3rd parties flocking to Nintendo's system in droves.
Re: Gearbox: Wii U Out-RAMs Xbox 360 and PS3
@Faron - That's exactly what I thought! That statement doesn't really mean anything.
"One of the best looking versions?"
...Well, I guess that means it'll look better that ONE version, at least...
Re: Talking Point: Is Wii U's Power Really That Important?
'Lateral thinking of withered technology' - A philosophy employed by the late, great Gunpei Yokoi, and one that is still used by Nintendo today. I think it's safe to say following that mantra has served them well.
Of course, visuals are important - I don't think anyone's denying that; but gameplay will always be first priority for The Big N.
I am seriously excited for the Wii U. I still get goosebumbs thinking about how I can continue my gaming sessions on the HD tablet controller...WITHOUT THE TV.
Witchcraft Nintendo! Witchcraft I say!
Re: Ubisoft Wants to Be Top Dog on Wii U
"We have big plans for Wii U. Our intention is to be the number one third-party on Wii U, just like we were on Kinect and just like we were on 3DS."
Eh? Well, I suppose Rayman 2, Splinter Cell 3D, Combat of Giants: Dinosaurs 3D & Asphalt 3D were known for their sterling quality...wern't they?
Still, I do loves me some Assassin's Creed, and I can't wait for Rayman Origins 3DS. I'd also love to see a Red Steel 3.
Re: Developers: Wii U "Less Powerful than PS3 and 360"
"Trying to catch up with Sony and Microsoft is irrelevant beyond belief at this point. Nintendo's road diverged a long time ago, and now it seems wiser to simply carry on ahead."
This is a quote from John Dean of CVG - and one I kinda agree with. Yes, Nintendo desire the support from 3rd parties, strong online and media support (such as Netflix).
At the end of the day though, it's clear that Nintendo follow a different creative and ideological philosophy than Sony, Microsoft or Apple.
Even then, I still doubt that Wii U is 'weaker' than PS3 and Xbox 360, as there have been so many developer claims to the contrary. Can't wait for E3.
Re: Musical Epic Mickey 2 "Won't Make You Sing"
I'll still be singing with the game.
Naked.
Re: Wait, There's a Spectrum Emulator in GoldenEye?
Well! You learn something new everyday.
Re: Disney Epic Mickey 2 to Brush with Europe in September
The Wii still has some life left after all!
Re: First Epic Mickey 3DS Screen Shows Scrooge McDuck
"The still also scores bonus points for including Scrooge McDuck from DuckTales, reinforcing our long-held belief that all games would be better with more Scrooge McDuck".
Took the words right outta my mouth.
Cue Meatloaf song...
Re: Vigil Games: "Wii U On Par with Current-Gen Consoles"
Here we go...it's time for another round of 'Wii U = weak stopgap console' gibberish!
@Magic-Wind - You have the right idea, dude. Yes, it'll be likely that the Wii U will be 'weaker' than Sony and Microsoft's new consoles...but I honestly don't give a toss, to be frank. Visuals won't be getting much better than the stuff we have now...and when it eventually hits complete photorealism, then what? In my mind, the future of videogames is not pure polygon-power, but creating immersive and interactive worlds to get lost in.
I mean, how many console games today boast incredible graphics? A lot.
How many of those games have a rich, interactive world on par with those aforementioned graphics? Errr...
Re: Ubisoft Ready for Digital Content Blitz on Wii U
Assassin's Creed III, Killer Freaks from Outer Space and Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Online...those sound like great titles...but I'm still waiting for the deluge of that crappy Ubisoft shovelware we all know and love!
Come on guys, I'm craving a 23rd version of Rayman 2!
Re: Mobile Dev: "Iwata Makes Me Fear for Nintendo's Future"
I'm so sick of these iOS developers constantly nipping at the heels of Iwata and Nintendo. The main dude from PopCap even had the gall to say that Nintendo should stop making hardware.
And now this Ben Cousins tool suggests that Nintendo (and the other console makers) cannot adopt a freemium model because they are "inexperienced" and "scared"?
News flash, Mr. Cousins - Nintendo have experimented with a 'freemium' model back in the NES/SNES days - where they offered downladable games online (yes, online & DLC - years before Playstation and Xbox).
@Aviator - I disagree. Nintendo are obviously doing something right when one looks at the phenomenal success of the Wii & DS (and the desperate attempts of imitation by Sony and Microsoft suggest they also agree).
Nintendo makes its first loss in 30 years, and people proclaim doom of the 120 year old company...ridiculous. According to Nintendo Gamer magazine, Nintendo have ¥812.8 billion in their pocket - enough to take a ¥20 billion loss every year until 2052. They also own ¥469 billion worth of "premises, equipment and investments" - which wouldn't run out until 2075. Even after all that, they would still have all their valuable IP to sell before going out of business.
Sometimes I feel as though people act butt-hurt because Nintendo love to cause 'disruption' within the industry...
Re: More 3D Music Videos On the Way to 3DS
I've heard of OK Go...but I have no idea who any of those other artists are.
I suppose that's because I hate most of today's 'music'...sometimes I feel as though I was born 30 years too late...
Re: Surprise! Disney Announces Epic Mickey 2 for Wii
A fixed camera? Sweet!
Since it's coming to HD consoles, I wonder if we'll see a Wii U version?
No matter what system it'll be on, I can't wait to play this. The 'musical' aspect sounds pretty cool!
EDIT: @Strongo9 - Epic Mickey 2 was never going to be a Wii exclusive. With the dissapointing sales of the first one, one can hardly blame Junction Point for releasing the sequel on multiple consoles.
Re: Review: Kid Icarus: Uprising (3DS)
For those who haven't, go and read Sakurai's interview on the Iwata Asks site. His philosophy on deconstructing traditional gaming structures is incredibly interesting!
Oh, and I'm so buying Kid Icarus
Re: Nintendo Leaves BAFTA Empty-Handed
@3 - Was gonna say the same thing. Mario 3D Land was robbed - it was a NEW game that sucessfully created a hybrid of Mario 2D/3D gameplay.
@vonseux - I agree. LittleBig Planet 2 (as great as it is) is just that - a sequel. Yes, it had innovative new features - but Skyward Sword did something that many thought was impossible; not only did it make motion controls great, but it made them BETTER than the traditional button layout...a mighty innovation, in my book. In comparison to SS's fluid & cerebral swordplay, button mashers like Skyrim and Kingdoms of Alamur look mighty dated, IMHO. Just wait; 3rd party developers are copying Skyward Sword for their games as we speak...
@22 - At the risk of sounding like an irational fanboy, I agree. When I heard the nominations for the BAFTAS were open, I literally rolled my eyes...I even said to myself, "I wonder what Unreal Engine-powered, linear, generic AAA game will win this year?"
I'm sorry if that sounds cynical...but it's just how I feel. The BAFTAS, like the Spike VGAs and the Golden Joysticks, always seem to favour what's 'popular', instead of actually opening their eyes and looking beyond the glut of $100 million blockbusters that permeate popular gaming culture today. Don't get me wrong...games like Mass Effect 3, Portal 2 and Skyrim are fine...but it seems as though (and I've said this many times before) that the 'popular' gaming media seem to have this underlying vendetta against Nintendo...because their games don't fit the 'dudebro' mentality of today's youth. Sure, they'll smile and nod when talking about Mario or Zelda - but you know they'd much rather be talking about the next Call of Duty or Gran Theft Auto, because they have 'teh grafix'.
Ultimately though, as squashiejoshie so finely put it - who cares about some vapid trophy. As long as Nintendo's games gain praise by their fans and sell adequetly...that'll be enough.
Re: Resident Evil Revelations Almost Had Campaign Co-Op
"...feedback from testing indicated that single-player Resident Evil was scarier"
Wow, really? /sarcasm
The last-minute inclusion of Sheva in Resident Evil 5 sucked big time. Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed the game (mostly) - but it was obvious it had far more potential. When it was first revealed, Capcom talked up the fact that the sun & heat would play a big part in scaring the player (which actually sounded awesome); but somewhere along the way (probably when "RACISM!" was stupidly squaked), they were forced to back-peddle and redesign chunks of the game.
I'm thankful Revelations turned out as well as it did.
Re: Keiji Inafune Gives Rallying Call to Japanese Developers
At the risk of sounding like a fence-sitter, I would say both Japanese and Western developers/publishers have their issues.
I don't think Japanese developers have an issue with games quality; rather, I believe the main trouble that is plaguing them is somewhat due to an identity crisis. I mean, from my experience, Japanese games are just as good as Western titles - it's just that lately they seem confused as to what they're trying to be. Titles such as Shadows of the Damned & Binary Domain strive to emulate the popular Western 3rd person shooter (even though the Japanese Resident Evil 4 practically reinvented the genre) - which causes a disconnect with me personally.
Vanquish, Bayonetta & Street Fighter IV- now THOSE are games the Japanese should be proud of. They take an established genre and infuse them with an urgency and flair only the Land of the Rising Sun can provide. Additional titles that deserve to be mentioned are Dark Souls, Okami, Little King's Story, & Resident Evil 4.
Oh, and I haven't forgotten about Nintendo, of course. They have remained a constant bastion of innovation amid the the seas of Japanese game development. It seems as though they exist in their own bubble, and are unnaffected by the cultural issues of their country - maybe they can give a few pointers to their peers?
Re: Feature: Nintendo’s Biggest Blunders
@8 - I really wouldn't consider those games 'shovelware'. IMO, Wii Music was a misunderstood game, and was a real experiment for Miyamoto, who wanted to shed the image of a 'traditional' videogame. As for Wii Play: just because it was minigame-based doesn't mean it was a cynical cash-in. For only $5 - $10, it was a great little extra for the Wii Remote.
@18 - Yeah, I was gonna say that Sony's PSN hack alone far outweighs most 'mistakes' committed by Nintendo.
@68 - The art style for Wind Waker was ANYTHING but a mistake.
Nintendo has made many mistakes, sure, but they pale in comparison to all the joy they have brought to gamers. As warioswoods has so expertly identified; the N64 catridges weren't a flat out blunder on Nintendo's part - they had pros as well as cons. Yes, they quite possibly led to a decreased market share as well as the abandonment of many 3rd parties; but they also provided streamlined game experiences such as Mario 64, Zelda: Ocarina of Time & Majora's Mask, Conker's Bad Fur Day, Turok 1 2 & 3, Perfect Dark, Donkey Kong 64 and Banjo Kazooie & Tooie (can you imagine large & graphically detailed games like them running load-free on a single PSOne disc?) Besides, I've always preferred real-time cutscenes to FMV...
@84 - Tell me about it. Time and time again, I highlight the sheer amount of great games on the Wii - yet people continue to spew the "Wii = no games" line. Sigh...
Regarding the 'Wii Wasteland' bit - yes, it was unfortunate that Nintendo gained the 'casual' stigma; but was it THEIR mistake? No, it was mainly the 3rd parties. Yes, Nintendo did release faminly friendly software such as Wii Fit & Wii Sports - but they also released masterpieces such as Mario Galaxy 1 & 2, Zelda: Twilight Princess & Skyward Sword, Smash Bros Brawl, Mario Kart Wii, Kirby's Epic Yarn, New Super Mario Bros. Wii, Wario Land: Shake It!, Punch Out!!, Metroid Prime Trilogy & Metroid: Other M.
The Virtual Boy? Yeah, that was a hell of a doozy...Though it should be noted that Gunpei Yokoi never actually finished it properly; but the greedy Nintendo execs released it anyway before having the gall to blame its failure on him...that, in my opinion, was Nintendo's biggest (and most shameful) mistake ever.
Other big mistakes by Nintendo (IMHO) are:
GCN/GBA Connectivity
Censoring of certain titles (notably Devil World & Mortal Kombat)
3DS Launch
Original GBA screen not having a backlight
Not making Wii HD (though I can certainly see their reasons, citing extra cost, etc.)
Mario Party/N64 joystick destruction
Power Glove
Region Locking (though there are both pros & cons for this)
Re: Review: Mario Party 9 (Wii)
Initially, I didn't give Mario Part 9 much thought; but after reading the changes it has introduced, I may actually end up getting it after all. It sounds lke it'd be a riot to play with my bro!
Hats off to Nd Cube!
Re: Pandora's Tower Limited Edition Laid Bare
Nice!
I missed out on The Last Story Limited Edition...I won't be making the same mistake!
@ 16 - "I can't understand why entire Europe has to suffer because of Germans." Darn Germans! What with their WWIIs and USK stickers...
@ 23 - Well, there was no ill word or protest from the Europeans because they were - y'know - getting the games anyway...
Re: Wii U Controller Originally Had Proper Analogue Sticks
@36 - Yeah, I'm in the same boat. No matter what kind of sticks Nintendo add, it'll still be awesome.
I quite like the 3DS Circle Pad, but I would like to see some sort of grip added to them (like the Gamecube's analogue stick - which I REALLY liked).
IMHO, the Playstation 3 controller has the worst analogue sticks (though only relatively...I still find them perfectly useable).
Re: eShop Game Size Limit is 2GB
@TrueWiiMaster - Oh, BTW, Dillon's Rolling Western has roughly 20 hours of gameplay (and I'm enjoyng it alot!).
@stipey & Buob - Thanks for the clarification!
Re: Review: Dillon's Rolling Western (3DSWare)
I'm gonna download this game first opportunity I get!
Dillon's Rolling Western, Pullbox, Steel Diver & Freakyforms - all great original games by Nintendo...look out for the haters to completely ignore this and to continue attacking the company for recycling the same franchises...
Re: SEGA, Capcom and Namco Bandai Tease 3DS Project
@25 - I tip my hat to you, well done!
Maybe it's a thief-type game? What's with that 'Banpresto' logo on the top right of the screen?
Re: Nintendo Lets Rip with Kid Icarus: Uprising Multiplayer Info
@41 - Dude, it's not for kids. Didn't you see the rating? Comic Mischief, Fantasy Violence AND Mild Suggestive Themes! This game'll make Manhunt look like Sesame Street...
/sarcasm
Seriously though, a game for everyone doesn't automatically classify as a 'kids' game, but hey, you're entitled to your opinion.
@11 - Yeah, I caught that reference too! Maybe the next Smash Bros. will have Power Stone-esque combat...
Re: Review: The Last Story (Wii)
I'll probably be picking this up tommorow...
However, I still haven't even touched Xenoblade Chronicles...and there are about 60 other games (literally) that I still need/want to play...
DEVELOPERS! STOP RELEASING GAMES SO I CAN CATCH UP!...sob
Re: See Rockstar and Miyamoto's Unreleased N64 Project
Vehicles adopting Kirby powers? That sounded pretty cool...
Maybe a Buggie Boogie revival for Wii U or 3DS?
Re: Talking Point: Achievements, Trophies and Wii U
I have both an Xbox 360 & PS3, and I could not care less about Achievements/Trophies.
Now, don't get me wrong - when they're done right, they're a great little bonus for videogames. I'd be lying if I said I didn't gain any satisfaction whenever I heard the familiar 'ping' sound of an accomplishment...but I am not ruled by them. I flat-out refuse to be.
Miyamoto was right in expressing doubt over the Achievment/Trophy system. The FUN of playing a videogame should be the reward - NOT some arbitrary points for bragging rights. An engrossing game should stand on its OWN merits - and I've always aprreciated and respected Nintendo for following this philosophy (despite the protestations of most gamers).
Unfortunately, it looks as though Nintendo will be giving in to the peer pressure by incorporating the 'Accomplishment' system; as already seen in 3DS, and likely in Wii U.
Again, the Achievement/Trophy system can be great if used right...I just hope that Nintendo realise that they should be a SECONDARY incentive for playing games, not the primary reason.