@Robokku
"For the uninitiated – and we’re not exactly experts ourselves here – a Moomin looks like a cross between a snowman and a hippo. They walk upright and talk, and appear to have the ability to cultivate crops and build quite sophisticated houses. The human-like Snufkin has seemingly been accepted into their society and is called upon to assist with their various problems."
@Everyone
Gather around and I will tell you a story.
Ahem.
Many know and love Moomin from the 90s Japanese animated series. It was produced in collaboration with the Netherlands and Finland and based mostly on the original Finnish books and comics.
The Moomin creator Tove Jansson, who invented the Moomins and wrote the books and started the comics, and her brother Lars Jansson who continued with the comics, were both involved with the series.
The 104 episodes spread across two seasons 1990-1992.
Season 1: 1-78.
Season 2: 79-104.
There is also an anime movie released for cinema in 1992, made by the same people, which is a prequel to the TV-series: Comet in Moominland.
It tells among other things how Snufkin met the Moomins.
Season one is the best.
Season one and the movie is based on Toves work and directed by Hiroshi Saito and written by Akira Miyazaki.
Season two is directed and written by other people and not based on Toves work, but in part based on her brothers comics.
One of my favourite animated series of all time. I urge anyone interested in animation to watch it!
It was dubbed to several different languages:
Japanese, English (British), Finish, Norwegian, among others.
Fun for all ages!
Some episodes and scenes might be a bit scary for the smaller children.
The Groke will haunt you!
The 90s series is not to be confused with the Japanese animes from 1969 or 1972,
nor the animated movie from 2014,
nor the finish animated series from 2019 (clearly more aimed at smaller children),
nor all the other series and movies, animated, stop motions, puppets or live action.
Here are a few of the many adaptions: https://www.moomin.com/en/blog/moomin-animations-exhibition/#1a135f4c
"If we’re ever to get an ‘Expert’ level set with a Nintendo theme, Zelda will be the IP. It skews a bit older anyway and the world is generally much more intricate, lending itself to those sort of builds far better."
A work in progress Zelda LEGO set was leaked some time ago. Unless they cancel it, it will show up sooner or later.
There are 4 "Expert level" Nintendo sets, all black box 18+. They are Super Mario themed though:
I think it's nice that Nintendolife reviews Nintendo LEGO sets
and I did enjoy reading this review and seeing the photos,
but I am a bit baffled by most of the cons and the score in this review.
I do agree the play feature with the pole seems to lack finesse though.
"we had a couple of mild criticisms which came up as we built."
How does "a couple of mild criticisms" turn into a 6/10?
"less satisfying than bigger builds"
It seems rather unfair to criticize a small LEGO set for being a small LEGO set?
"On the pricey side"
But you also write:
"You get 164 pieces (plus the usual extras/leftovers), so the cost-to-piece ratio is in line with Lego's other licensed kits. There's far better value Lego sets available, sure, but they don't have Animal Crossing on the box, right?"
Also, the set does have a unique Nintendo minifigure.
It is to be expected that licensed sets cost more, as the cost of the set goes both to LEGO and the licese holder.
So not so pricey compared to comparable LEGO sets, but still, it's a minus?
"Lacks the interactive hook of the Super Mario line"
This is a non-electric play set. Why not review it for what it is?
Also: I have read so many complaints in the nintendolife comment sections about the electric LEGO Mario sets, people who want Nintendo minifigures and not the blocky, electric Mario. And when finally, there are Nintendo-minifigures - nintendolife see this as a minus.
Would you really prefer if this was not minifigures? That it was blocky, electric figures with a screen on their belly?
How would it even work with Animal Crossing? The Mario sets are based on Mario/Luigi/Peach hitting blocks, collecting coins, jumping on enemies and so on. I’m not sure it would translate that well to Animal Crossing.
Also: Those who enjoy this functionality already have the Mario line of sets to pick from - which seems to get new sets all the time.
Is it that terrible that there now are a few Nintendo LEGO sets with Nintendo lego minifigures that are not electric? Does it have to be a con in the review?
Nintendolifes eshop reviews for February 2024: Pocket Card Jockey: Ride On! Piczle Cross: Story Of Seasons Splatoon 3: Side Order Bandle Tale: A League Of Legends Story Promenade qomp 2 Inkulinati PlateUp! Arzette: The Jewel Of Faramore Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Eastward: Octopia Alisa Developer's Cut GRIME Definitive Edition
Doesn't seem to be any way to sort by month, but they are sorted by date and dates are shown in the list, so one see what is the first February game and the last January game.
At the time of writing - there are 13 eshop reviews from February.
"glowy, swirly, spiral thing, what even was that meant to be and why is it inside a book?"
They are portals that connects the books 2D world with the outside 3D world. The reason they are in the game are probably to have a user friendly, consistent way of traveling between the two worlds.
If the Switch 2 release is postponed like 3 to 6 months or so, I would assume it's not a lot Nintendo can do to change it's current Switch 1 plans.. but maybe a little.. Making games and releasing them takes time, even remasters.
If Nintendo is going to have another Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase showing Nintendo Switch titles, it makes a lot of sense to have this some time BEFORE showing off the wonderful Switch 2.
Pyoros track records seem to be solid.
So.. Seems we must wait another month or more for the Switch 2 reveal.
Missed opportunity: They could have had Kirby eat the whole Happy Meal box, so he would be shaped like one - and the happy meal smile would be visible inside Kirbys mouth. On the other hand – Nintendo might not be into mixing the two brands this much.
" If we sound a little surprised, it's mainly because we've gotten used to the second player's role being severely downgraded to simple support in some recent Mario games. Here though, Player Two gets a decent amount of control, with total freedom of movement and objectives to take care of, meaning that in co-op — with a young child in tow — Mario vs Donkey Kong finds the magic it needs to elevate it from a decent experience to something easier to recommend."
"overall this one comes off as a safe and solid experience for a younger audience playing solo, or for co-op play with an adult. It might not set the world on fire then, but Mario vs. Donkey Kong does enough through its new co-op mode and post-game challenges to garner a fairly hearty recommendation from us."
"Mario vs Donkey Kong serves up a slick return to the 2004 GBA adventure that finds fresh fun in cooperative play. Yep, the new co-op mode really is the star of the show this time out and, alongside two new worlds, 'Plus' versions of each level, a Time Attack mode, and fancy new looks and sounds, there's plenty to dig into and enjoy with a core puzzle/platforming setup that has aged quite well. Just be aware that, if you're a more seasoned player looking for platforming challenges, this game finds its strengths as an experience for younger gamers or as a co-op title to enjoy with your kids. Taken as such, it absolutely earns a recommendation."
"Co-op mode makes for a whole new world of fun with a young player in tow"
What exactly are the differences between playing as Mario and Toad in this game?
"The other question posited which game (or games) fans would most like to see completely remade with modern technology. (...) Ace Attorney 1, 2, and 3"
Yes! The graphics in the HD editions of Ace Attorney 1, 2 and 3 looks like someone traced over the excellent original pixel art, and was not very successful doing it. Put me off buying it completely.
Ace Attorney 4 HD on the other hand looks excellent! Prefer it over the looks of the later instalments in 3D. The 3D-games looks good as well though.
What else.. I would like a compilation of Capcoms Disney games for NES, GB and SNES for Switch/Switch 2.
DuckTales, Chip N Dales, Mickey Mouse, and so on..
And I would also like some NEW Capcom Disney games! Pixel-art games. With quality neo-retro graphics like Sonic Mania, Alex Kidd DX, Shredders revenge.
Did not like the graphics in the DuckTales remaster. I don't think the mix of 2D and 3D worked. Also the animation was not quite there. Hand drawn 2D platformers CAN look great though: Cuphead, Rayman Legends..
But I think it’s a good probability the new Nintendo Switch will actually be called "Nintendo Switch 2", and here is why:
1. I think Nintendo have learned the hard way from the Wii U failure. It was reported many people did not understand the Wii U was a new console from Nintendo and thought it was some sort of add on for the Wii. Nintendo will NOT risk this scenario again.
2. A name of the type "Nintendo Switch Something" might be too long. Long product names are not that great for branding.
3. If the “something” is short it could be Wii U all over again. Actually, it could potentially be Wii U all over again whatever the “something”, is except a “2”.
4. "Nintendo Switch 2" gives a clear message this is a next generation console from Nintendo, not a just a new model for the original Switch line.
5. "Nintendo Switch 2" sounds good.
6. I’m sure Nintendo have tried to make the next generation Switch look different from the first-generation Switch. And I am sure it does look different. But how different? It’s probably going to be the same basic setup: screen, joy-cons and a base. The base they could change a lot, the screen and joy-cons – possibly less so. If a joy con is also going to work as a controller on its own, the possible design alterations have even more limitations. IF the next generation Switch end up looking sort of similar to the Switch/Switch OLED it makes it even more important to have a name that makes it very clear this is the next generation Switch.
7. That Nintendo has not used numerical in consoles before (N64 and 3DS/2DS does not count) is not a strong argument against the Nintendo Switch 2 name. Nintendo have done many different things with its console names, and to put a 2 at the end this time would be something new. Also in the past the next generation consoles have been something totally new each time for different reasons, I suspect this might not be the case this time. This time the main difference might be more power and more pixels. And scroll wheels.
8. That there is a "Switch 2" on the marked would make many automatically want to upgrade. Just look at mobile phones. Like Iphone or Samsung. The numbers are such clear indications for what is the latest model and a lot of people want the latest model.
9. Nintendo is not going to move away from the “home console and handheld console in one” concept, so to call the same concept something totally different than Switch might not make lot of sense.
10. I find it unlikely Nintendo will not use the Switch-name as it’s such a strong brand for them. strong brand = more recognition = more sales = more money.
Having said all that - Nintendo could surprise with a new name. Would they then add a name to “Nintendo Switch” or drop the “Switch” name? If they go this route, I think it’s a good chance they will then drop the whole Switch name to make it clear this is not a "Switch pro", but a next generation console and also to not get a crazy long name. A totally new name also makes some marketing sense if someone is searching for the console online or in a store. If a new name is indeed the case, maybe it will reflect some special new aspect of the console.
But all in all, I think they will stick to the Switch brand and call it Nintendo Switch 2. Sometimes the most simple solution is the best solution.
I do not think Nintendo will recycle one of its old console names.
That would be too retro. They are, after all, trying to market a next generation Nintendo console.
No Super, Advance or New then.
Also New 3DS was only an upgraded 3DS not a next generation console, so calling a next generation Switch “New” would be Wii U all over again.
Nintendo Switch+ sounds too much like a streaming service.
Disney+, ESPN+, MGM+, Discovery+, Paramount+, Apple TV+, Lonsgate+, BET+, DailyWire+, AMC+, We TV+, Samsung TV Plus, WatchFree+, 7plus.
Also "Switch+" is very much in the same avenue as "Wii U", it sounds like a slight upgrade or peripheral, not a next generation console.
Switch+ even sounds like a smaller upgrade than the Switch Pro-upgrade that never came.
That information was somewhat well hidden below the introduction, honourable mentions, top 3, all 2023 selects winners and two user polls.
@nintendolife
Why not mention that the eShop Selects is a poll among the Nintendolife staff in the introduction? In the list, only the review scores are shown as any indication of how the games are weighted. Why not include the total points each games got in the poll? Would be interesting to see.
I think the Switch 2 is definitely coming this year.
Just look at the in-house game lineup for 2024, as well as other games Nintendo is publishing for 2024:
Another Code: Recollection
Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Cing
Release Date: 19th Jan 2024
Mario vs. Donkey Kong
Release Date: 16th Feb 2024
Princess Peach: Showtime!
Release Date: 22nd Mar 2024
Luigi's Mansion 2 HD
Release Date: Q3 2024
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
Release Date: 2024
Except for Peach, which I'm not that excited for based on the trailer, it's only remakes coming from Nintendo to the Switch. Promising remakes, but still remakes. This is a clear end-of-life symptom.
The main creators at Nintendo must be hard at work producing Switch 2 games.
The Switch had an extremely high-quality swan song:
Zelda tears of the kingdom, Pikmin 4 and Super Mario Wonder. Just WOW.
Then there is: Metroid Prime 4
Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Retro Studios
Release Date: TBA
Will it come in 2024? Maybe.
Why have we seen no trailers or photos? I think it’s because it’s not for the Switch and because the Switch 2 has not been revealed yet.
Possibly a release game. Rather certain it will be among the reveal games for Switch 2.
I think Metroid Prime 4 will almost certainly be a Switch 2 exclusive.
Nintendo needs high quality exclusives to drive sales for the Switch 2, this means they cannot release these types of games on both the Switch and Switch 2.
The reason Nintendo has released Zelda games on two systems at once in the past, Twilight princess and Breath of the wild, was probably because these games were already revealed to be released on the old system, so it would be very tactless to change the plan completely.
@riggah
DK is Donkey Kong as the initials have been used for him for years.
Since Diddy Kong has the same initials as Donkey Kong, they had to pick something else. They could have gone the same route as with Toad and just used the head of the character, but I guess they went with DD, because D-D sounds like Diddy.
"The Switch 2 is also rumoured to be a kitchen sink. Your point?"
Some might find it interesting that the feature this article is about might appear on Nintendo's next console.
1. Sakurai having the scroll wheel idea for the Game Cube controller.
2. Nintendo having a patent for two scroll wheels on a handheld console that looks rather like a Switch.
3. Rumour: A Switch 2 console might have been seen that is similar to the patent.
If the Switch 2 does indeed have the scroll wheels:
It might be the fruit of Sakurai's initial idea.
That Sakurai is talking about this now, so many years later, might indicate that he knows something about the Switch 2.
@Specialstreamcannon "The game follows an asymmetric 4v1 format, with four player-created Ghostbusters trying to stop the Ghost from fully haunting the location."
Hmm.
Could this be inspired by the "Luigi's Ghost Mansion" game in Nintendo Land? Launch title for the Wii U in 2012, the console made for asymmetrical multiplayer. One player plays the ghost with the Wii U gamepad, and up to four playes play the ghost trackers.
On the other hand one could say Luigi's Mansion was possibly inspired by Ghost Busters. Perhaps inspiration went full circle?
Sadly not a lot of later Wii U games took much advantage of the Wii U gamepad..
Is something truly earth-shattering or genre defining a requirement for a 10/10 on nintendolife.com?
Can Nintendo Life give examples of sequels that they define as truly earth-shattering or genre defining? Other than games making the leap from 2D to 3D or from 3D to open world 3D.
"Cons: (...)
Keeps things relatively gentle in terms of challenge"
In completing the main story or even completing the game 100%?
With the use of badges or even without the use of badges?
Comments 342
Re: Takaya Imamura's New Switch Game Is Launching In Japan In July
@Olliemar28
"Ex-Nintendo employee Takaya Imamura, best known for his work on Star Fox and F-Zero"
AND Tingle!
Re: Best Nintendo Switch 2D Platformers
@dartmonkey
Stop the press!
The good boy "Grapple Dog" is missing from the list!
Nintendo Life review: Excellent 9/10
https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/switch-eshop/grapple-dog
Re: Random: Sakurai Endorses Powerwash Simulator And Other 'Work' Games
Super Work Bros. confirmed!
Re: Mortal Kombat 1's New Update Adds The Kameo Fighter Janet Cage
"HOBBY
None"
"CRIMES
Abuse
Terrorism
Attempted murder"
https://villains.fandom.com/wiki/Janet_Cage
Hmm. She does not sound like a very nice person.
Re: Soapbox: 30 Years Later, Super Metroid's Foreboding Atmosphere Is Still Unmatched
@LiquidNinja
"when you reach brinstar"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbXn94Ifvvc
If they remake Super Metroid it would be fun if they added this as an idle animation in Brinstar.
Re: Review: Snufkin: Melody Of Moominvalley (Switch) - A Joyful, Dreamlike Adventure With An Edge
@Robokku
"For the uninitiated – and we’re not exactly experts ourselves here – a Moomin looks like a cross between a snowman and a hippo. They walk upright and talk, and appear to have the ability to cultivate crops and build quite sophisticated houses. The human-like Snufkin has seemingly been accepted into their society and is called upon to assist with their various problems."
@Everyone
Gather around and I will tell you a story.
Ahem.
Many know and love Moomin from the 90s Japanese animated series. It was produced in collaboration with the Netherlands and Finland and based mostly on the original Finnish books and comics.
The Moomin creator Tove Jansson, who invented the Moomins and wrote the books and started the comics, and her brother Lars Jansson who continued with the comics, were both involved with the series.
The 104 episodes spread across two seasons 1990-1992.
Season 1: 1-78.
Season 2: 79-104.
There is also an anime movie released for cinema in 1992, made by the same people, which is a prequel to the TV-series: Comet in Moominland.
It tells among other things how Snufkin met the Moomins.
Season one is the best.
Season one and the movie is based on Toves work and directed by Hiroshi Saito and written by Akira Miyazaki.
Season two is directed and written by other people and not based on Toves work, but in part based on her brothers comics.
One of my favourite animated series of all time. I urge anyone interested in animation to watch it!
It was dubbed to several different languages:
Japanese, English (British), Finish, Norwegian, among others.
Fun for all ages!
Some episodes and scenes might be a bit scary for the smaller children.
The Groke will haunt you!
The 90s series is not to be confused with the Japanese animes from 1969 or 1972,
nor the animated movie from 2014,
nor the finish animated series from 2019 (clearly more aimed at smaller children),
nor all the other series and movies, animated, stop motions, puppets or live action.
Here are a few of the many adaptions:
https://www.moomin.com/en/blog/moomin-animations-exhibition/#1a135f4c
Some information about the 90s series:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moomin_(1990_TV_series)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Moomin_episodes
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0247117/
and movie:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comet_in_Moominland_(film)
Japanese 90s series intro 1:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ts6Nd9imTwg
Japense 90s series intro 2:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1lsjwvhuuA
The series in Britain, Finland, Norway and several other countries had a completely different intro and song:
English (British): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YAmXjBUp-g
Finnish: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocJACF1I8Fc
Norwegian: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76Jjnd0zOh0
Snufkin playing harmonica in the series, 3 different songs on repeat:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9x_Zxx3FWwM
Re: Review: Snufkin: Melody Of Moominvalley (Switch) - A Joyful, Dreamlike Adventure With An Edge
@gcunit
According to howlongtobeat.com:
"Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley
Main Story 4 Hours
Main + Extra 4½ Hours
Completionist 5 Hours"
https://howlongtobeat.com/?q=snufkin
It's a cosy game, especially for a Moomin fan.
Re: Review: LEGO Animal Crossing - Bunnie's Outdoor Activities - Is It Any Good?
@Ogbert
"If we’re ever to get an ‘Expert’ level set with a Nintendo theme, Zelda will be the IP. It skews a bit older anyway and the world is generally much more intricate, lending itself to those sort of builds far better."
A work in progress Zelda LEGO set was leaked some time ago. Unless they cancel it, it will show up sooner or later.
There are 4 "Expert level" Nintendo sets, all black box 18+. They are Super Mario themed though:
Piranha Plant
540 pieces
https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/piranha-plant-71426
Super Mario 64™ Question Mark Block
2064 pieces
https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/super-mario-64-question-mark-block-71395
Nintendo Entertainment System™
2646 pieces
https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/nintendo-entertainment-system-71374
The Mighty Bowser™
2807 pieces
https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/the-mighty-bowser-71411
About Lego expert / black box 18+ / Icons:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lego_Icons
Re: Review: LEGO Animal Crossing - Bunnie's Outdoor Activities - Is It Any Good?
@dartmonkey
I think it's nice that Nintendolife reviews Nintendo LEGO sets
and I did enjoy reading this review and seeing the photos,
but I am a bit baffled by most of the cons and the score in this review.
I do agree the play feature with the pole seems to lack finesse though.
"we had a couple of mild criticisms which came up as we built."
How does "a couple of mild criticisms" turn into a 6/10?
"less satisfying than bigger builds"
It seems rather unfair to criticize a small LEGO set for being a small LEGO set?
"On the pricey side"
But you also write:
"You get 164 pieces (plus the usual extras/leftovers), so the cost-to-piece ratio is in line with Lego's other licensed kits. There's far better value Lego sets available, sure, but they don't have Animal Crossing on the box, right?"
Also, the set does have a unique Nintendo minifigure.
It is to be expected that licensed sets cost more, as the cost of the set goes both to LEGO and the licese holder.
So not so pricey compared to comparable LEGO sets, but still, it's a minus?
"Lacks the interactive hook of the Super Mario line"
This is a non-electric play set. Why not review it for what it is?
Also: I have read so many complaints in the nintendolife comment sections about the electric LEGO Mario sets, people who want Nintendo minifigures and not the blocky, electric Mario. And when finally, there are Nintendo-minifigures - nintendolife see this as a minus.
Would you really prefer if this was not minifigures? That it was blocky, electric figures with a screen on their belly?
How would it even work with Animal Crossing? The Mario sets are based on Mario/Luigi/Peach hitting blocks, collecting coins, jumping on enemies and so on. I’m not sure it would translate that well to Animal Crossing.
Also: Those who enjoy this functionality already have the Mario line of sets to pick from - which seems to get new sets all the time.
Is it that terrible that there now are a few Nintendo LEGO sets with Nintendo lego minifigures that are not electric? Does it have to be a con in the review?
Re: Super Mario LEGO Announcement Teased Ahead Of Mario Day 2024
@Liam_Doolan
"There's also been a bigger themed set based on the castle from Super Mario 64 and a giant version of Bowser."
In the 18+ line there is also the LEGO Nintendo Entertainment System™
https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/nintendo-entertainment-system-71374
And the (medium sized set) LEGO Piranha Plant
https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/piranha-plant-71426
Re: Community: What's The Best Switch eShop Game We Missed? (February 2024)
@StevenH
I made a list:
Nintendolifes eshop reviews for February 2024:
Pocket Card Jockey: Ride On!
Piczle Cross: Story Of Seasons
Splatoon 3: Side Order
Bandle Tale: A League Of Legends Story
Promenade
qomp 2
Inkulinati
PlateUp!
Arzette: The Jewel Of Faramore
Tomb Raider I-III Remastered
Eastward: Octopia
Alisa Developer's Cut
GRIME Definitive Edition
Re: Community: What's The Best Switch eShop Game We Missed? (February 2024)
@StevenH
That would be nice.
Here are all Switch Eshop reviews from nintendolife for 2024:
https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews?system=switch-eshop&year=2024
Doesn't seem to be any way to sort by month, but they are sorted by date and dates are shown in the list, so one see what is the first February game and the last January game.
At the time of writing - there are 13 eshop reviews from February.
Re: Nintendo Highlights February Partner Showcase Games With New Infographic
@Anti-Matter
Why is Snufkin a definitive no?
Re: Nintendo Highlights February Partner Showcase Games With New Infographic
And the award for worst logo of Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase 21/02/2024 goes to..
drumroll..
Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble
Looking forward to the game though!
Re: Review: Splatoon 3: Side Order - An Addictive Roguelite Just Shy Of Excellence
"Cons:
That does not sound very tempting..
Maybe I will get it though.
Re: New 'Plucky Squire' Gameplay Demonstrates Its Ridiculously Cool Concept
@gcunit
"glowy, swirly, spiral thing, what even was that meant to be and why is it inside a book?"
They are portals that connects the books 2D world with the outside 3D world.
The reason they are in the game are probably to have a user friendly, consistent way of traveling between the two worlds.
A vortex / hole like this is a sort of logical visualisation of a portal sucking you in and transferring you from one dimension to another.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vortex
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wormhole
I'm sure the game also has some in game explanation for them.
Re: Poll: So, How Would You Rate The Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase?
@Olliemar28
Where is the What games are you most excited about poll?
Can you add it to the page?
Edit: Found it in another article: https://www.nintendolife.com/guides/nintendo-direct-february-2024-every-announcement-game-reveal-trailer
Re: Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble Is Rolling Exclusively Onto Switch Later This Year
I enjoyed Super Monkey Ball and Super Monkey Ball 2 on the GameCube. Hope this turns out well!
That logo is a mess though..
Re: Talking Point: If 'Switch 2' Isn't Coming Until 2025, What's Nintendo Got Up Its Sleeve This Year?
If the Switch 2 release is postponed like 3 to 6 months or so, I would assume it's not a lot Nintendo can do to change it's current Switch 1 plans.. but maybe a little..
Making games and releasing them takes time, even remasters.
Re: Poll: What Review Score Would You Give Mario vs. Donkey Kong?
@1UP_MARIO
"6/10. Great. Short game but fun."
But on the rating, "Great" is an 8,
6 is merely "Not Bad".
Did you knock of 2 points because of the game length?
According to howlongtobeat.com:
Mario vs. Donkey Kong (2024)
Main Story 5 Hours
Main + Extra 7½ Hours
Completionist 11½ Hours
Re: Sega's Upcoming Crazy Taxi Revival Will Apparently Be A "Triple-A" Game
Hope this turns out well.
I enjoyed Crazy Taxi on the GameCube.
Re: Rumour: A Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase Will Reportedly Drop Next Week
If Nintendo is going to have another Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase showing Nintendo Switch titles, it makes a lot of sense to have this some time BEFORE showing off the wonderful Switch 2.
Pyoros track records seem to be solid.
So.. Seems we must wait another month or more for the Switch 2 reveal.
Re: Kirby Happy Meal Promotion Announced For McDonald's Japan
Missed opportunity: They could have had Kirby eat the whole Happy Meal box, so he would be shaped like one - and the happy meal smile would be visible inside Kirbys mouth.
On the other hand – Nintendo might not be into mixing the two brands this much.
Re: Round Up: The Reviews Are In For Mario vs. Donkey Kong
"Not too much variety across the board, then."
Well, other reviewers are more positive.
At the time of writing it has a 77 score at metacritic out of 67 critic reviews:
https://www.metacritic.com/game/mario-vs-donkey-kong-2024/critic-reviews/?platform=nintendo-switch
Seems most of them gave it an 8.
Re: Review: Mario vs. Donkey Kong (Switch) - An Easygoing, Kid-Friendly Remake That's Just Fine
@PJOReilly
@nintendolife
@anyonethatknows
" If we sound a little surprised, it's mainly because we've gotten used to the second player's role being severely downgraded to simple support in some recent Mario games. Here though, Player Two gets a decent amount of control, with total freedom of movement and objectives to take care of, meaning that in co-op — with a young child in tow — Mario vs Donkey Kong finds the magic it needs to elevate it from a decent experience to something easier to recommend."
"overall this one comes off as a safe and solid experience for a younger audience playing solo, or for co-op play with an adult. It might not set the world on fire then, but Mario vs. Donkey Kong does enough through its new co-op mode and post-game challenges to garner a fairly hearty recommendation from us."
"Mario vs Donkey Kong serves up a slick return to the 2004 GBA adventure that finds fresh fun in cooperative play. Yep, the new co-op mode really is the star of the show this time out and, alongside two new worlds, 'Plus' versions of each level, a Time Attack mode, and fancy new looks and sounds, there's plenty to dig into and enjoy with a core puzzle/platforming setup that has aged quite well. Just be aware that, if you're a more seasoned player looking for platforming challenges, this game finds its strengths as an experience for younger gamers or as a co-op title to enjoy with your kids. Taken as such, it absolutely earns a recommendation."
"Co-op mode makes for a whole new world of fun with a young player in tow"
What exactly are the differences between playing as Mario and Toad in this game?
Re: First 4 Figures Releasing Zelda: Breath Of The Wild Sheikah Slate Statue, Pre-Orders Open Soon
@Ryu_Niiyama
It might light up. First 4 Figures does have some editions of figures with light in them.
Re: Random: Capcom Survey Asks If Fans Want Sequels To Okami, Dino Crisis, More
My Capcom wish list:
"The other question posited which game (or games) fans would most like to see completely remade with modern technology.
(...) Ace Attorney 1, 2, and 3"
Yes!
The graphics in the HD editions of Ace Attorney 1, 2 and 3 looks like someone traced over the excellent original pixel art, and was not very successful doing it. Put me off buying it completely.
Ace Attorney 4 HD on the other hand looks excellent!
Prefer it over the looks of the later instalments in 3D.
The 3D-games looks good as well though.
What else.. I would like a compilation of Capcoms Disney games for NES, GB and SNES for Switch/Switch 2.
DuckTales, Chip N Dales, Mickey Mouse, and so on..
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Disney_games_by_Capcom
Why was The Disney Afternoon Collection never released on Switch?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Disney_Afternoon_Collection
And I would also like some NEW Capcom Disney games! Pixel-art games. With quality neo-retro graphics like Sonic Mania, Alex Kidd DX, Shredders revenge.
Did not like the graphics in the DuckTales remaster.
I don't think the mix of 2D and 3D worked.
Also the animation was not quite there.
Hand drawn 2D platformers CAN look great though: Cuphead, Rayman Legends..
Re: Best Time Loop Games On Nintendo Switch
Minit is gold.
I wish it got a true sequel. "Minits"?
Reminds me a little of Links awakening on the Game Boy.
Seems Minit would be a great fit for the Playdate.
Too bad they don't send these to Norway..
N64 titles does age somewhat. I would recommend the 3DS version of Majoras Mask over the N64 one.
Re: Princess Peach: Showtime! Trailer Reveals Ninja Peach And Cowgirl Peach
From the trailer I get the impression "Princess Peach: Showtime!" might be a "Mario Party" for one.
Re: Pokémon Developer Game Freak Trademarks 'PAND LAND'
PAND LAND.
The logo is black and white.
Could be panda-related.
The hexagon-symbol in the middle of the name reminds me of the boardgame Settlers of Catan.
Maybe hexagon-tiles play a part in the game.
HarmoKnight (3DS, 2012) and Pocket Card Jockey (3DS, 2013) by Game Freak are nice games.
Both were part of Game Freak's Gear Project initiative were empoloyees of Game Freak can pitch original game ideas.
Nintendolife have written about the Gear Project in the past:
https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2019/05/game_freak_is_trying_to_create_something_more_exciting_than_pokemon
Re: Talking Point: What Will The 'Switch 2' Actually Be Called?
But I think it’s a good probability the new Nintendo Switch will actually be called "Nintendo Switch 2", and here is why:
1. I think Nintendo have learned the hard way from the Wii U failure.
It was reported many people did not understand the Wii U was a new console from Nintendo and thought it was some sort of add on for the Wii.
Nintendo will NOT risk this scenario again.
2. A name of the type "Nintendo Switch Something" might be too long. Long product names are not that great for branding.
3. If the “something” is short it could be Wii U all over again.
Actually, it could potentially be Wii U all over again whatever the “something”, is except a “2”.
4. "Nintendo Switch 2" gives a clear message this is a next generation console from Nintendo, not a just a new model for the original Switch line.
5. "Nintendo Switch 2" sounds good.
6. I’m sure Nintendo have tried to make the next generation Switch look different from the first-generation Switch. And I am sure it does look different. But how different?
It’s probably going to be the same basic setup: screen, joy-cons and a base.
The base they could change a lot, the screen and joy-cons – possibly less so.
If a joy con is also going to work as a controller on its own, the possible design alterations have even more limitations.
IF the next generation Switch end up looking sort of similar to the Switch/Switch OLED it makes it even more important to have a name that makes it very clear this is the next generation Switch.
7. That Nintendo has not used numerical in consoles before (N64 and 3DS/2DS does not count) is not a strong argument against the Nintendo Switch 2 name. Nintendo have done many different things with its console names, and to put a 2 at the end this time would be something new.
Also in the past the next generation consoles have been something totally new each time for different reasons, I suspect this might not be the case this time. This time the main difference might be more power and more pixels. And scroll wheels.
8. That there is a "Switch 2" on the marked would make many automatically want to upgrade.
Just look at mobile phones. Like Iphone or Samsung. The numbers are such clear indications for what is the latest model and a lot of people want the latest model.
9. Nintendo is not going to move away from the “home console and handheld console in one” concept, so to call the same concept something totally different than Switch might not make lot of sense.
10. I find it unlikely Nintendo will not use the Switch-name as it’s such a strong brand for them.
strong brand = more recognition = more sales = more money.
Having said all that - Nintendo could surprise with a new name.
Would they then add a name to “Nintendo Switch” or drop the “Switch” name?
If they go this route, I think it’s a good chance they will then drop the whole Switch name to make it clear this is not a "Switch pro", but a next generation console and also to not get a crazy long name.
A totally new name also makes some marketing sense if someone is searching for the console online or in a store. If a new name is indeed the case, maybe it will reflect some special new aspect of the console.
But all in all, I think they will stick to the Switch brand and call it Nintendo Switch 2.
Sometimes the most simple solution is the best solution.
Or the Nintendo Switch Ultra Dolphin.
Re: Talking Point: What Will The 'Switch 2' Actually Be Called?
These are clearly jokes:
These are possibly also jokes?
I do not think Nintendo will recycle one of its old console names.
That would be too retro. They are, after all, trying to market a next generation Nintendo console.
No Super, Advance or New then.
Also New 3DS was only an upgraded 3DS not a next generation console, so calling a next generation Switch “New” would be Wii U all over again.
Nintendo Switch+ sounds too much like a streaming service.
Disney+, ESPN+, MGM+, Discovery+, Paramount+, Apple TV+, Lonsgate+, BET+, DailyWire+, AMC+, We TV+, Samsung TV Plus, WatchFree+, 7plus.
Also "Switch+" is very much in the same avenue as "Wii U", it sounds like a slight upgrade or peripheral, not a next generation console.
Switch+ even sounds like a smaller upgrade than the Switch Pro-upgrade that never came.
Perhaps.
Re: Feature: Nintendo eShop Selects - December 2023
@PikaPhantom @TotalHenshin
Thanks!
That information was somewhat well hidden below the introduction, honourable mentions, top 3, all 2023 selects winners and two user polls.
@nintendolife
Why not mention that the eShop Selects is a poll among the Nintendolife staff in the introduction?
In the list, only the review scores are shown as any indication of how the games are weighted.
Why not include the total points each games got in the poll? Would be interesting to see.
Re: Feature: Nintendo eShop Selects - December 2023
"Feature: Nintendo eShop Selects - December 2023
Our favourite eShop games in from December!"
"1. Outer Wilds (Switch eShop)" "Review 9/10"
"2. SteamWorld Build (Switch eShop)" "Review 8/10"
"3. A Highland Song (Switch eShop)" "Review 7/10"
"Honourable mentions
Terra Nil | Review: 7/10
Chico and the Magic Orchards DX | Review: 9/10
Palia | Review: In-Progress
Born of Bread | Review: 7/10
Turok 3: Shadow of Oblivion Remastered | Review: 7/10"
Is it not based on the review scores?
Shouldn't "Chico and the Magic Orchards DX" be in first place, shared first place or second place?
While SteamWorld Build should be in third?
Re: Talking Point: Could Nintendo Go Another Year Without A Switch Successor?
I think the Switch 2 is definitely coming this year.
Just look at the in-house game lineup for 2024, as well as other games Nintendo is publishing for 2024:
Another Code: Recollection
Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Cing
Release Date: 19th Jan 2024
Mario vs. Donkey Kong
Release Date: 16th Feb 2024
Princess Peach: Showtime!
Release Date: 22nd Mar 2024
Luigi's Mansion 2 HD
Release Date: Q3 2024
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
Release Date: 2024
Except for Peach, which I'm not that excited for based on the trailer, it's only remakes coming from Nintendo to the Switch. Promising remakes, but still remakes. This is a clear end-of-life symptom.
The main creators at Nintendo must be hard at work producing Switch 2 games.
The Switch had an extremely high-quality swan song:
Zelda tears of the kingdom, Pikmin 4 and Super Mario Wonder. Just WOW.
Then there is: Metroid Prime 4
Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Retro Studios
Release Date: TBA
Will it come in 2024? Maybe.
Why have we seen no trailers or photos? I think it’s because it’s not for the Switch and because the Switch 2 has not been revealed yet.
Possibly a release game. Rather certain it will be among the reveal games for Switch 2.
I think Metroid Prime 4 will almost certainly be a Switch 2 exclusive.
Nintendo needs high quality exclusives to drive sales for the Switch 2, this means they cannot release these types of games on both the Switch and Switch 2.
The reason Nintendo has released Zelda games on two systems at once in the past, Twilight princess and Breath of the wild, was probably because these games were already revealed to be released on the old system, so it would be very tactless to change the plan completely.
Re: Super Nintendo World Donkey Kong Power-Up Bands Revealed
@riggah
DK is Donkey Kong as the initials have been used for him for years.
Since Diddy Kong has the same initials as Donkey Kong, they had to pick something else. They could have gone the same route as with Toad and just used the head of the character, but I guess they went with DD, because D-D sounds like Diddy.
Re: Random: Sakurai Wanted The GameCube Controller To Include A Scroll Wheel
@NatiaAdamo
"The Switch 2 is also rumoured to be a kitchen sink. Your point?"
Some might find it interesting that the feature this article is about might appear on Nintendo's next console.
1. Sakurai having the scroll wheel idea for the Game Cube controller.
2. Nintendo having a patent for two scroll wheels on a handheld console that looks rather like a Switch.
3. Rumour: A Switch 2 console might have been seen that is similar to the patent.
If the Switch 2 does indeed have the scroll wheels:
Re: Random: Sakurai Wanted The GameCube Controller To Include A Scroll Wheel
@Olliemar28
@westman98
The Switch 2 is rumoured to have two scroll wheels.
https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/nintendo-switch-2-console-scrolling-wheels-feature-leak/
Re: Talking Point: Along With Joy-Con Drift, What Does Nintendo Have To 'Fix' With 'Switch 2'?
Something else: A built in stylus.
It was put to great use on the DS, 3DS and WII U.
Re: Review: Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed - Ecto Edition - Dripping In Nostalgic 4v1 Fun
@Specialstreamcannon
"The game follows an asymmetric 4v1 format, with four player-created Ghostbusters trying to stop the Ghost from fully haunting the location."
Hmm.
Could this be inspired by the "Luigi's Ghost Mansion" game in Nintendo Land?
Launch title for the Wii U in 2012, the console made for asymmetrical multiplayer.
One player plays the ghost with the Wii U gamepad, and up to four playes play the ghost trackers.
On the other hand one could say Luigi's Mansion was possibly inspired by Ghost Busters.
Perhaps inspiration went full circle?
Sadly not a lot of later Wii U games took much advantage of the Wii U gamepad..
Re: Poll: What's Your Switch Controller Of Choice For Super Mario Bros. Wonder?
@Olliemar28 @nintendolife
One official controller is missing from the poll:
Nintendo Switch Lite (Built in controller with D-pad)
Re: Review: Super Mario Bros. Wonder - The Best 2D Mario Since The Super NES
@nintendolife @PJOReilly
"Cons:
Is something truly earth-shattering or genre defining a requirement for a 10/10 on nintendolife.com?
Can Nintendo Life give examples of sequels that they define as truly earth-shattering or genre defining? Other than games making the leap from 2D to 3D or from 3D to open world 3D.
"Cons: (...)
In completing the main story or even completing the game 100%?
With the use of badges or even without the use of badges?