@Shiryu Came here to post the same thing! Loved that game - as janky as it was. The controls took some getting used to but it was well satisfying when you good good at it.
Also, is it just me or is the term 'Port' being used as shorthand to bash Nintendo with or what!?
I get that people want original games for their new machine but a re-release of a great game is still a great game.
And it's all the more relevant in the case of any Wii U game considering it's tiny user base.
I think Nintendo know that just re-releasing Smash Wii U wouldn't be enough as it's fans will have played it to death. But as for the other re-releases and those that are to come - many I expect - they will bring them to their sexy new system so they can make the money and reap the credit for their hard work.
Not expecting fireworks for this - BUT - wondering if a new IP might be announced?? It would give them time to build the understanding and hype around the game ahead of the big hitters dominating at / after E3. Like they did with ARMS. Maybe even release before E3 like that did.
I think they want to be seen to be innovating this year - differentiating themselves and getting attention. LABO is a great example of this but I think they'll want something more mature as well. Some thing to excite the press and get people talking Nintendo.
Either that or a new Wave Race - that would be truly special!!
@rjejr Think about it this way - if you're a kid who has just got the Switch for Christmas, there isn't much new stuff going on at the moment to get you excited. Sure there are great games already, but they'll likely have got 2 or three of them already and will have played them to death by the end of Feb.
Kirby and this bundle is for that audience in my opinion.
Nintendo fans are all over the Switch and can see it's potential - and that of the games that will come in time. But the young Christmas crop who may well be new to the company need convincing to stick with it or they'll drop it for one of the 20 other toys / entertainment systems vyin gift their attention.
@Razer Dude, that's certainly not the picture in the children's ward where I work. Apparently the ward was full of Switches on Christmas Day - most of the kids got one.
And this is in the U.K. - hardly Nintendo country (very little store space, let alone window display). The fact that the kids knew what it was and wanted one was a big surprise for me this early in its life but great news for Nintendo I'd say.
However, feedback I've had points to them feeling the games are thin on the ground - and that's fair enough if you look at what is available for the younger ones. Labo, Kirby and Yoshi are perfectly positioned to feed this new crop of Nintendo kids.
@MailOrderNinja Yeah, I see you point, schools are not exactly flush around where I live.
But there is potential for schools to invest in leasing them if there is a My Toy Cons element - then they're using a tool to invent new stuff using basic, cheap materials - and they wouldn't need loads of kits. 10 for the school maybe. Still not cheap but if the potential is there to invent and re-use then its a different prospect - it becomes a specialist yet accesible and fun resource for teaching core STEM ideas.
If there really is a 'My Toy Con' scripting element to this it could be huge - like, huuuuuge.
The incredible brilliance of the idea is 3 fold: 1. the materials and practical skills to produce your own Toy Cons is available to all. 2.the joy cons are packed with cool interesting tech to play with - and the potential is being demonstrated brilliantly with the kits. 3. Nintendo has already proved it can make game making software super fun with Mario Maker
It won't matter how rudimentary and rough the creation - if you can succeed in making your own toy cons and ways to make them satisfyingly interact with the software you have programmed - that will set people off on some incredible journey of invention and entertainment.
@Pod Yeah, looking beyond the original series is critical I think. Things have moved on a hell of a lot since then. A new team will bring a totally fresh perspective - and so will the time gap to a large degree. It's interesting that they chose to carry on the Prime series rather than start a new one.
@Blister I think if Nintendo have the guts to gut Zelda I think we should trust them with Metroid. They've been pulling some pretty great surprises out of the bag for the last year.
We know they're capable of big surprises and awesome re-inventions. If I let myself get carried away I can really start hoping we see the best, brightest, most exciting Metroid Nintendo can muster.
I'm not usually that prone to hype, but my love of Metroid Prime, the Nintendo potential and the lack of information is really really intriguing.
@Pod Totally agree with your comments about editing. However, overreach is a genuine issue - and that's a lot down to testing, management and experience.
I know from painful experience how easy it is to get half way into big project and realise you've stretched too far and won't be able to finish it to the standard you want. At that point you can work as hard as your mind and body will allow but you know it won't be enough.
All power to the people making these games - making stuff from scratch involves some pretty painful learning curves and you usually don't realise you're on one until it's too late.
That said, these mistakes are often the pre-cursor to your most focused work - just look at the Wii U + Switch.
I'm super intrigued about the new Prime - as I said, new team doesn't mean not Retro - so many questions - can't wait to find out about it.
I loved the first person perspective of Prime, the immersion in the world and the atmosphere - and also the way it built the tension and wonder of being in those spaces. It made the shooting aspect feel great and really dynamic.
That said, I do think a mix of 1st and 3rd would be best - there are times when you do want to pull back and see more of what's immediately around you. It would also make the platforming elements way more fun.
And I love the idea of exploring the galaxy as a bounty hunter - piloting her ship and moving between worlds sounds awesome!
Regarding Retro not making Prime 4 - Am I wrong in thinking that Nintendo's statement just said it was 'a new team' working on it? If that's true then it doesn't mean it's not Retro.
They're going to start making brightly coloured games with cute characters set in charming worlds full of outlandish (but still cute characters). The games will be super fun but highly crafted with hidden depth and pose a fiendish challenge for those who want it.
Apparently the whole family can enjoy playing together.
@WhistleFish Personally I just wish the UK was a bit more open minded and easy going in relation to gaming: Willing to embrace some of the frivolity and fun of Nintendo - and able to see the craft and challenge beneath the brightly coloured surface.
I work with teenagers and children and think it's a shame that many of them shun Nintendo as they get older because they perceive it as childish and are unwilling to step outside of the Forza/FIFFA/COD mould.
I don't think it's down to how enjoyable they'd find the games - it seems to relate to broader cultural ideas and identity around play and technology that I'm not able to put my finger on.
I think the Switch is going to be a big step in the right direction for Nintendo in the UK though - it's marketing and design is moving the needle in relation to how people perceive it I think.
We're nearing the point where resolution ceases to sell tech.
Sure, I'll most likely own a 4K TV in the next 4 years, but someone will have to sell me better eyes to get me to want to upgrade any further.
And sure, you need better res for the flashy new cinema screen TV's that are all the rage. But I don't want my living room dominated by a TV. I might go a bit bigger than my current 32 inch next time but from my sofa there will be no point in retina bleeding resolution.
I'm guessing that's why VR is being pushed so hard - tech companies looking for the next revolution. And if that's the case it's likely just a soon to be obsolete stop gap for a much more user friendly and exciting tech innovation that's being developed in a lab somewhere.
The upshot is they're going to need to invent a new number or acronym to shell us stuff we don't need.
@OorWullie Yep, Uk feels like Xbox/Playstation world most of the time. The Classic Mini's may well help Nintendo get people's attention - but the Switch will need some games to rival Forza, full fat FIFA + COD to get much traction here.
But isn't the point he's making that a 4K Switch isn't feasible right now and the form factor is much more important that the resolution?
I think the Sales figures support his argument.
And as far as fad goes - Wii levels of success for the Switch would be incredibly impressive. Add to that - it's highly unlikely that it'll suffer the same interest drop off from gamers as they're investing everything they have in the software for the platform.
People will insist that their games need to be in 4K up to a point - until they can't resist buying a Switch because everyone else is having so much fun with theirs!
@countzero Totaly agree. I think they'll save the big splash for E3 to compete with what Sony has this year - which looks like it may be pretty headline grabbing.
Expecting them to flesh out the online offering, some release dates and extended footage of games we know, a couple of smaller games we don't know, a bunch of cool looking indies - with a roadmap of sorts - and one fun surprise to whet the internet hype-attite. It could be a few 3rd party games - or a lower tier Nintendo franchise - both would be lovely.
If VC is announced and it's cool that would be a big win. Not banking on it though.
I think they have good momentum already - don't think they need to push too hard just yet - just keep things ticking over nicely and save the revs for later in the year.
I'd like to see more personal writing - I always enjoy these articles: Opinions, talking points, thoughtful speculation, wilful disregard of reason - anything as long as it's got some personality and a point to make.
It's hard for people who haven't been through cancer treatment as a young person to imagine the challenge that comes with the debilitating and at times excruciating long term treatment, physcological and emotional regression. Add to that isolation from your friends, extended family, school life, outdoor play, hanging out in your local area, having the energy and motivation to do anything. Hardly ever getting a good night sleep because your checking temperatures and peeing because you're on hydration. Seeing the hardship and turmoil your family go through trying to help you.
I have not gone through this but I work on a Children's and Teenage chancer unit and I can tell you that the young people get put through the ringer and are never the same afterwards. I think that qualifies as deserving of a little bit of lighthearted fun and the Switch is the perfect machine to deliver it because of the amazing games, great local multiplayer options and portability.
If the dad ends up playing with his son and they have those treasured experiences together it could well be extremely helpful for both of them.
An amazing act of kindness and a lovely response to a very specific circumstance.
I absolutely LOVED Wave Race Blue Storm. So much fun and challenge - and a genuine pleasure to play. I put a ton of hours into it but still didn't complete the Venice course in 1st.
Can't get me a Switch yet but if Nintendo make a new Wave Rave then I'd be SUUUUPER tempted - would be SO good in hand held - even better with a LAN pal to face off against.
I unboxed my SNES classic today after a tough month of work and family stuff - got it in the first wave and had been saving it for christmas but it seemed like a good moment - it was of course!
Had to go upstairs and work some more after a short while but the squeals of delight from my 5 year old and his little brother (and my wife) were priceless.
The 5 year old was fizzing with excitement telling me all about Star Fox a little later on - and acting out the movement of the ship - especially the barrel rolls of course! Nintendo rocks!
@dimi Fifa is a gateway into a huge pre-teen / teen male market that PS4 and Xbox dominate. It's a group that are fairly conservative in their tastes and less willing than others to be seen doing something different.
It's made trickier by the fairly widely held impression (outside of Nintendo message boards) that Nintendo make kiddie consoles - an association that this group run a mile from - and into the arms of the self consciously serious PS4 + Xbox.
I think this is why Nintendo are pitching the ads with stylish young adults. It makes it aspirational for the younger teens - and therefore the pre teens - but avoids the 'core gamer' exclusivity - and nesesary bleak tone - that could put off the wider spectrum of gamers.
@KIRO Totally agree - the tone is great - really upbeat - and it manages to unite youngsters and young adults in an ad that makes it look cool and fun to play these games together whatever the age.
Nintendo have a great range of visual flair in these games and it shows here - Fifa being the obvious exception but I totally understand the motivation for wanting to attract those gamers.
I think the Pokemon bit is realised really well and will strike a chord with youngsters - the majority of who will have had no clue about Poken's existence and may well be like 'a Pokemon fighting game - WHAAAT!!
It's a pretty killer line up for year one and this sells it nicely.
@yeayeanaynay I agree and find it kind of ridiculous the way people relate Reggie to Nintendo as a whole company. Sure he has a position of considerable responsibility - but he's not in charge of the way the company is run or how the products are made. And his job when he's talking to the press is that of a front man - a no nonsense, cut and dried, here's what we want you to know at this moment spokesperson.
I happen to kind of like the way he does it - it keeps the heat on him and away from the other employees - letting them get on with their jobs. Sports managers / coaches often perform the same role.
Not good enough I'm afraid. It's too late for those who have lost or had their Switches stolen already.
I know of someone who's been playing BotW since day one who had his Seitch stolen recently. You can replace a console but Nintendo have basically ruined the whole game for him with the lack of a crucial feature that should have been the first thing to fix.
A 2D Mario in the style of the 80's hand rendered illustrations would be stunning - and an insane amount of work.
Cuphead is a good reference point of course - and everything I've seen of that game looks incredible. A Mario version with that maximum cuteness, polished 80's style (gouache paint for flat bright colour, airbrushing for smooth shading / texture and inked outlines for finesse) would be SUPER fun.
How long did cuphead take to make? Mario would be a lot more work due to the scale and variety of levels but the big N might be one of the only studios who could afford to do it.
Maybe they're working on it to coincide with the opening of their theme park? Would be mint.
My wife is not 'into' games as such - she's not interested in the wider industry. But she loves Mario since she had a NES bought with her saved up paper round money when she was 8. She's really excited about the SNES mini I got her for her birthday. My friend got one too - who hasn't owned a system since we all had Amiga 500's. He loves it and says his wife plays more than he does - Yoshi's island apparently. My niece is getting one for her 8th birthday and my wife's sisters fella who up to now just played FIFA, Forza & Battlefront on Xbox has just got one on a total whim from Amazon Go. I know plenty of other who are in the lookout.
I love the feeling that we're all going to be playing these games together and swapping notes! It will be really fun hearing what the different people are getting into. I'd love to do a RMC GoNintendo style 'parents play' with my Mam and Dad and Mario World - would be hilarious.
I'll also be interested to see if it bleeds over into any of them getting interested in the wider world of Nintendo and maybe getting a Switch.
I feel like the SNES mini is an amazing gateway into games because it feels kind of no big deal but is in fact freakin awesome with the power to really get its hooks into people. I think it will go some way towards pulling people back that gave up on games and Nintendo when the Wii U released and they didn't realise it was a new console.
I know my wife would love the Switch - just got to wet her beak a little first!
@Fooligan Mmm . . . You may well be taking the p*ss but if not . . . That's a pretty slim demographic you're shooting for. And how many flat roofs have a handy projection surface in a convenient spot?
I'm searching - maybe an after dark garden party? But you'd need a projection screen. And why would you need a 'portable' Switch specific projector?
Not trying to be obtuse here - genuinely can't see what makes this useful.
Great - perfect for the portable nature of the Switch! I'm assuming the sexy little box has a portable white projection screen and a petrol generator tucked inside?
Seriously - looks cute and at first I was like 'oh cool' . . . but I'm struggling to figure out where and when this would be necessary?
@crimsontadpoles I totally totally agree. It was a tricky enough prospect to explain in the first place.
Wii U is so obtuse - it's hard to say even and contains absolutely no clue at all as to what it is.
I bought one recently to give to my kids at Christmas and no one I've mentioned it too (a fair few people) has even heard of it!! A major console release from the most famous video game company - and it's invisible!! What!!
It's so mixed up - I love that they kept the Wii motes useable and created some amazing multiplayer games so groups can all play together. But the pitch and the brand was that it was all about 'U' - and only the latest Wii more pluses are really useable anyway - eh?!
Ideally they'd have found a brand that was unique and promoted the dual screen play. The Wii brand was tarnished by that point although it did retain huge market reach. Maybe they should have gone all out - ditched the Wii brand and come out with new controllers. But it would have been an expensive prospect - and they were unable to drop the price by much at all.
A brilliant mess in many ways. I'm really looking forward to using it and it's legacy games line up is pretty stellar so we'll have a ton of fun with it for years.
They've done a massively better job marketing the Switch - it's night and day. I love how they've gone about it. That's one big lesson they've definitely learned.
@Graeme I agree - the controls were really nice. It wasn't as fast and nippy as some - Micro Machines for example - but the cars felt like they had weight and momentum. The slower pace made it better for the battling / shooting aspect I guess - it felt just right and the weapons were really nicely balanced. Great game.
@kobashi100 I instantly dismiss any comment which references the 'lazy developer' trope.
1. Because it's blatently obvious they have never made and published a creative work of their own and had to rely on the income. 2. Because it's lazy thinking. 3. I'm too lazy to think of a 3rd reason.
Played 'Super Cars 2' to death on the Amiga 500 back in the day. Enjoyed 'Micro Machines' as well.
Top down racers are pretty fun I recon - not sure why - I guess it makes it really satisfying when you nail a corner because you can really see the movement of the car on the road. There's also something about simplifying the view and the controls to a 2D environment that makes it feel fun - like with platformers and shoot em ups. You also get a really good view of the surrounding environment which can be used to great effect - thinking of 'Micro Machines' here of course.
And shooting other cars is way easier - shooting stuff is always good.
@Shane76 I can understand them ditching print as digital presents such a simpler, more flexible and cheaper way of getting information to customers. However, that doesn't mean they can't produce beautiful digital manuals. They could be parcially animated and included with the game to be accessed through the menu. If the file size was an issue for carts they could make them a download option.
Someone else here made the point about them as an alternative to in game tutorials. I think game designers think that playing through the tutorial is more fun than reading a manual but I tend to disagree. I like the feeling of working out and remembering what to do using the written and drawn information - it emphasises the 'way finding' element of game playing over the route following one of tutorial play.
Dr.Captain Falcon? Mute City Chronicals? Nindenfalcons? BoxBoy 2.Falcon? Captain Falcons Pilot Wings Flying School for the Futuristically Insane? (Seriously - that one would be awesome!)
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Re: New Splatoon Secret Project Is Set To "Shock The World" Just Days Before E3
Scratch Gondry - Luc Besson!
Re: New Splatoon Secret Project Is Set To "Shock The World" Just Days Before E3
My prediction . . . Movie
Live action (effects with a mix of real world and GCI).
Directed by Michel Gondry.
Re: Rogue Aces Is Cleared For Take-Off On Switch This April
@Shiryu Came here to post the same thing! Loved that game - as janky as it was. The controls took some getting used to but it was well satisfying when you good good at it.
Re: Masahiro Sakurai Confirms He's Working On Super Smash Bros. Switch
Also, is it just me or is the term 'Port' being used as shorthand to bash Nintendo with or what!?
I get that people want original games for their new machine but a re-release of a great game is still a great game.
And it's all the more relevant in the case of any Wii U game considering it's tiny user base.
I think Nintendo know that just re-releasing Smash Wii U wouldn't be enough as it's fans will have played it to death. But as for the other re-releases and those that are to come - many I expect - they will bring them to their sexy new system so they can make the money and reap the credit for their hard work.
And it won't stop them making new games.
Re: Masahiro Sakurai Confirms He's Working On Super Smash Bros. Switch
Port, mix or new game?!?
No-one knows.
Re: Surprise! There's A New Nintendo Direct Coming, And It's Due Tomorrow
Not expecting fireworks for this - BUT - wondering if a new IP might be announced?? It would give them time to build the understanding and hype around the game ahead of the big hitters dominating at / after E3. Like they did with ARMS. Maybe even release before E3 like that did.
I think they want to be seen to be innovating this year - differentiating themselves and getting attention. LABO is a great example of this but I think they'll want something more mature as well. Some thing to excite the press and get people talking Nintendo.
Either that or a new Wave Race - that would be truly special!!
Re: Splatoon 2 To Receive 'Starter Edition' With Extra Goodies Thrown In Free Of Charge
@rjejr Think about it this way - if you're a kid who has just got the Switch for Christmas, there isn't much new stuff going on at the moment to get you excited. Sure there are great games already, but they'll likely have got 2 or three of them already and will have played them to death by the end of Feb.
Kirby and this bundle is for that audience in my opinion.
Nintendo fans are all over the Switch and can see it's potential - and that of the games that will come in time. But the young Christmas crop who may well be new to the company need convincing to stick with it or they'll drop it for one of the 20 other toys / entertainment systems vyin gift their attention.
Re: Nintendo Has Plans For More Switch Peripheral Hardware
@Razer Dude, that's certainly not the picture in the children's ward where I work. Apparently the ward was full of Switches on Christmas Day - most of the kids got one.
And this is in the U.K. - hardly Nintendo country (very little store space, let alone window display). The fact that the kids knew what it was and wanted one was a big surprise for me this early in its life but great news for Nintendo I'd say.
However, feedback I've had points to them feeling the games are thin on the ground - and that's fair enough if you look at what is available for the younger ones. Labo, Kirby and Yoshi are perfectly positioned to feed this new crop of Nintendo kids.
Re: Soapbox: Labo Could Help Nintendo Finally Crack The World Of Education
@MailOrderNinja Yeah, I see you point, schools are not exactly flush around where I live.
But there is potential for schools to invest in leasing them if there is a My Toy Cons element - then they're using a tool to invent new stuff using basic, cheap materials - and they wouldn't need loads of kits. 10 for the school maybe. Still not cheap but if the potential is there to invent and re-use then its a different prospect - it becomes a specialist yet accesible and fun resource for teaching core STEM ideas.
Re: Soapbox: Labo Could Help Nintendo Finally Crack The World Of Education
If there really is a 'My Toy Con' scripting element to this it could be huge - like, huuuuuge.
The incredible brilliance of the idea is 3 fold:
1. the materials and practical skills to produce your own Toy Cons is available to all.
2.the joy cons are packed with cool interesting tech to play with - and the potential is being demonstrated brilliantly with the kits.
3. Nintendo has already proved it can make game making software super fun with Mario Maker
It won't matter how rudimentary and rough the creation - if you can succeed in making your own toy cons and ways to make them satisfyingly interact with the software you have programmed - that will set people off on some incredible journey of invention and entertainment.
This could be really exciting - the mind boggles!
Re: Former Metroid Prime Developer Reflects On Cut Content From The Trilogy
@Pod Yeah, looking beyond the original series is critical I think. Things have moved on a hell of a lot since then. A new team will bring a totally fresh perspective - and so will the time gap to a large degree. It's interesting that they chose to carry on the Prime series rather than start a new one.
@Blister I think if Nintendo have the guts to gut Zelda I think we should trust them with Metroid. They've been pulling some pretty great surprises out of the bag for the last year.
We know they're capable of big surprises and awesome re-inventions. If I let myself get carried away I can really start hoping we see the best, brightest, most exciting Metroid Nintendo can muster.
I'm not usually that prone to hype, but my love of Metroid Prime, the Nintendo potential and the lack of information is really really intriguing.
Re: Former Metroid Prime Developer Reflects On Cut Content From The Trilogy
@Pod Totally agree with your comments about editing. However, overreach is a genuine issue - and that's a lot down to testing, management and experience.
I know from painful experience how easy it is to get half way into big project and realise you've stretched too far and won't be able to finish it to the standard you want. At that point you can work as hard as your mind and body will allow but you know it won't be enough.
All power to the people making these games - making stuff from scratch involves some pretty painful learning curves and you usually don't realise you're on one until it's too late.
That said, these mistakes are often the pre-cursor to your most focused work - just look at the Wii U + Switch.
I'm super intrigued about the new Prime - as I said, new team doesn't mean not Retro - so many questions - can't wait to find out about it.
Re: Former Metroid Prime Developer Reflects On Cut Content From The Trilogy
I loved the first person perspective of Prime, the immersion in the world and the atmosphere - and also the way it built the tension and wonder of being in those spaces. It made the shooting aspect feel great and really dynamic.
That said, I do think a mix of 1st and 3rd would be best - there are times when you do want to pull back and see more of what's immediately around you. It would also make the platforming elements way more fun.
And I love the idea of exploring the galaxy as a bounty hunter - piloting her ship and moving between worlds sounds awesome!
Regarding Retro not making Prime 4 - Am I wrong in thinking that Nintendo's statement just said it was 'a new team' working on it? If that's true then it doesn't mean it's not Retro.
Re: The Iconic Danger Mouse Comes To Switch With The Danger Games
Really can't see the point in allowing trashy games into the e-shop. It can only harm the longterm image of the system and the company.
I'd have thought they'd be at pains to differentiate the machine from the swamp of smartphone gaming.
Gotta love DM though . . . CHIEEEEEEFF!!
Re: Nintendo Is Announcing "A New Way To Play" Later Today
Are Nintendo trying to break the internet this year or something!
Re: Nintendo Is Announcing "A New Way To Play" Later Today
They're going to start making brightly coloured games with cute characters set in charming worlds full of outlandish (but still cute characters). The games will be super fun but highly crafted with hidden depth and pose a fiendish challenge for those who want it.
Apparently the whole family can enjoy playing together.
It'll never work.
Re: Nintendo Is Announcing "A New Way To Play" Later Today
1-2-Kids
Re: Nintendo Switch Is Seeing Record Sales In Both France And Italy
@Bondi_Surfer Good point - and a really nice profile pic.
Re: Nintendo Switch Is Seeing Record Sales In Both France And Italy
@WhistleFish Personally I just wish the UK was a bit more open minded and easy going in relation to gaming: Willing to embrace some of the frivolity and fun of Nintendo - and able to see the craft and challenge beneath the brightly coloured surface.
I work with teenagers and children and think it's a shame that many of them shun Nintendo as they get older because they perceive it as childish and are unwilling to step outside of the Forza/FIFFA/COD mould.
I don't think it's down to how enjoyable they'd find the games - it seems to relate to broader cultural ideas and identity around play and technology that I'm not able to put my finger on.
I think the Switch is going to be a big step in the right direction for Nintendo in the UK though - it's marketing and design is moving the needle in relation to how people perceive it I think.
Re: Nintendo Switch Is Seeing Record Sales In Both France And Italy
@GC-161 I have no idea what relevance you imagine these ignorant comparisons have.
Re: Nintendo Reiterates That It's Not Interested In Virtual Reality Or 4K Support
We're nearing the point where resolution ceases to sell tech.
Sure, I'll most likely own a 4K TV in the next 4 years, but someone will have to sell me better eyes to get me to want to upgrade any further.
And sure, you need better res for the flashy new cinema screen TV's that are all the rage. But I don't want my living room dominated by a TV. I might go a bit bigger than my current 32 inch next time but from my sofa there will be no point in retina bleeding resolution.
I'm guessing that's why VR is being pushed so hard - tech companies looking for the next revolution. And if that's the case it's likely just a soon to be obsolete stop gap for a much more user friendly and exciting tech innovation that's being developed in a lab somewhere.
The upshot is they're going to need to invent a new number or acronym to shell us stuff we don't need.
Re: Nintendo Switch Is Seeing Record Sales In Both France And Italy
@OorWullie Yep, Uk feels like Xbox/Playstation world most of the time. The Classic Mini's may well help Nintendo get people's attention - but the Switch will need some games to rival Forza, full fat FIFA + COD to get much traction here.
Re: Nintendo Reiterates That It's Not Interested In Virtual Reality Or 4K Support
But isn't the point he's making that a 4K Switch isn't feasible right now and the form factor is much more important that the resolution?
I think the Sales figures support his argument.
And as far as fad goes - Wii levels of success for the Switch would be incredibly impressive. Add to that - it's highly unlikely that it'll suffer the same interest drop off from gamers as they're investing everything they have in the software for the platform.
People will insist that their games need to be in 4K up to a point - until they can't resist buying a Switch because everyone else is having so much fun with theirs!
Re: Nintendo of Russia Appears to Confirm Incoming Nintendo Direct
@countzero Totaly agree. I think they'll save the big splash for E3 to compete with what Sony has this year - which looks like it may be pretty headline grabbing.
Expecting them to flesh out the online offering, some release dates and extended footage of games we know, a couple of smaller games we don't know, a bunch of cool looking indies - with a roadmap of sorts - and one fun surprise to whet the internet hype-attite. It could be a few 3rd party games - or a lower tier Nintendo franchise - both would be lovely.
If VC is announced and it's cool that would be a big win. Not banking on it though.
I think they have good momentum already - don't think they need to push too hard just yet - just keep things ticking over nicely and save the revs for later in the year.
Re: Site News: Say Hello To The New Nintendo Life Editor, Dom Reseigh-Lincoln
Welcome Don, and good luck Tom!
I'd like to see more personal writing - I always enjoy these articles: Opinions, talking points, thoughtful speculation, wilful disregard of reason - anything as long as it's got some personality and a point to make.
Good luck to the whole team for 2018!
Re: Soapbox: A Super Mario Odyssey Sequel or DLC is All But Guaranteed
Imagine flying mechanic - like the SMW cape but in a 3D world!
Re: Teacher Whose Son Has Leukaemia Fights Back Tears After His Students Buy Him A Switch
It's hard for people who haven't been through cancer treatment as a young person to imagine the challenge that comes with the debilitating and at times excruciating long term treatment, physcological and emotional regression. Add to that isolation from your friends, extended family, school life, outdoor play, hanging out in your local area, having the energy and motivation to do anything. Hardly ever getting a good night sleep because your checking temperatures and peeing because you're on hydration. Seeing the hardship and turmoil your family go through trying to help you.
I have not gone through this but I work on a Children's and Teenage chancer unit and I can tell you that the young people get put through the ringer and are never the same afterwards. I think that qualifies as deserving of a little bit of lighthearted fun and the Switch is the perfect machine to deliver it because of the amazing games, great local multiplayer options and portability.
If the dad ends up playing with his son and they have those treasured experiences together it could well be extremely helpful for both of them.
An amazing act of kindness and a lovely response to a very specific circumstance.
Re: Review: Aqua Moto Racing Utopia (Switch)
I absolutely LOVED Wave Race Blue Storm. So much fun and challenge - and a genuine pleasure to play. I put a ton of hours into it but still didn't complete the Venice course in 1st.
Can't get me a Switch yet but if Nintendo make a new Wave Rave then I'd be SUUUUPER tempted - would be SO good in hand held - even better with a LAN pal to face off against.
Summer 2018? Go on Nintendo - try my wallet!
Re: SNES Classic Mini Back In Stock at Official Nintendo UK Store
I unboxed my SNES classic today after a tough month of work and family stuff - got it in the first wave and had been saving it for christmas but it seemed like a good moment - it was of course!
Had to go upstairs and work some more after a short while but the squeals of delight from my 5 year old and his little brother (and my wife) were priceless.
The 5 year old was fizzing with excitement telling me all about Star Fox a little later on - and acting out the movement of the ship - especially the barrel rolls of course! Nintendo rocks!
Re: Nintendo's Updated Switch and 3DS Infographic Shows Off Winter Line-Up
That graphic fits my phone screen perfectly - Nintendo are modernising!
Re: Nintendo Launches a 'Switch Moments Come to Life' Commercial
@dimi Fifa is a gateway into a huge pre-teen / teen male market that PS4 and Xbox dominate. It's a group that are fairly conservative in their tastes and less willing than others to be seen doing something different.
It's made trickier by the fairly widely held impression (outside of Nintendo message boards) that Nintendo make kiddie consoles - an association that this group run a mile from - and into the arms of the self consciously serious PS4 + Xbox.
I think this is why Nintendo are pitching the ads with stylish young adults. It makes it aspirational for the younger teens - and therefore the pre teens - but avoids the 'core gamer' exclusivity - and nesesary bleak tone - that could put off the wider spectrum of gamers.
Re: Nintendo Launches a 'Switch Moments Come to Life' Commercial
@KIRO Totally agree - the tone is great - really upbeat - and it manages to unite youngsters and young adults in an ad that makes it look cool and fun to play these games together whatever the age.
Nintendo have a great range of visual flair in these games and it shows here - Fifa being the obvious exception but I totally understand the motivation for wanting to attract those gamers.
I think the Pokemon bit is realised really well and will strike a chord with youngsters - the majority of who will have had no clue about Poken's existence and may well be like 'a Pokemon fighting game - WHAAAT!!
It's a pretty killer line up for year one and this sells it nicely.
Re: Super Mario Odyssey is the Fastest Selling Mario Title to Date in the US
@WiltonRoots Please be joking.
Re: Nintendo Acknowledges Iwata Tribute On Switch, But Has "Nothing To Announce"
@yeayeanaynay I agree and find it kind of ridiculous the way people relate Reggie to Nintendo as a whole company. Sure he has a position of considerable responsibility - but he's not in charge of the way the company is run or how the products are made. And his job when he's talking to the press is that of a front man - a no nonsense, cut and dried, here's what we want you to know at this moment spokesperson.
I happen to kind of like the way he does it - it keeps the heat on him and away from the other employees - letting them get on with their jobs. Sports managers / coaches often perform the same role.
Re: Reggie on Backing Up Your Saves with the Switch
Not good enough I'm afraid. It's too late for those who have lost or had their Switches stolen already.
I know of someone who's been playing BotW since day one who had his Seitch stolen recently. You can replace a console but Nintendo have basically ruined the whole game for him with the lack of a crucial feature that should have been the first thing to fix.
Re: Miyamoto on Bringing Back the “Old” Style of Mario, Exploring New Art Styles
A 2D Mario in the style of the 80's hand rendered illustrations would be stunning - and an insane amount of work.
Cuphead is a good reference point of course - and everything I've seen of that game looks incredible. A Mario version with that maximum cuteness, polished 80's style (gouache paint for flat bright colour, airbrushing for smooth shading / texture and inked outlines for finesse) would be SUPER fun.
How long did cuphead take to make? Mario would be a lot more work due to the scale and variety of levels but the big N might be one of the only studios who could afford to do it.
Maybe they're working on it to coincide with the opening of their theme park? Would be mint.
Re: Don't Worry, You'll Be Able To Capture Video In Super Mario Odyssey
I'm guessing Mario - and creating buzz around it - is the whole point of the timing of this feature.
There will likely be hundreds and hundreds of small crazy moments worth 'cap'turing and sharing in this game.
Nintendo marketing will be rubbing their hands in glee.
Re: Editorial: Nintendo's Surprising Fanbase is a Major Strength, Which Bodes Well for Switch
My wife is not 'into' games as such - she's not interested in the wider industry. But she loves Mario since she had a NES bought with her saved up paper round money when she was 8. She's really excited about the SNES mini I got her for her birthday. My friend got one too - who hasn't owned a system since we all had Amiga 500's. He loves it and says his wife plays more than he does - Yoshi's island apparently. My niece is getting one for her 8th birthday and my wife's sisters fella who up to now just played FIFA, Forza & Battlefront on Xbox has just got one on a total whim from Amazon Go. I know plenty of other who are in the lookout.
I love the feeling that we're all going to be playing these games together and swapping notes! It will be really fun hearing what the different people are getting into. I'd love to do a RMC GoNintendo style 'parents play' with my Mam and Dad and Mario World - would be hilarious.
I'll also be interested to see if it bleeds over into any of them getting interested in the wider world of Nintendo and maybe getting a Switch.
I feel like the SNES mini is an amazing gateway into games because it feels kind of no big deal but is in fact freakin awesome with the power to really get its hooks into people. I think it will go some way towards pulling people back that gave up on games and Nintendo when the Wii U released and they didn't realise it was a new console.
I know my wife would love the Switch - just got to wet her beak a little first!
Re: OJO, a Dedicated Nintendo Switch Projector, Launches Its Indiegogo Campaign Soon
@Fooligan Mmm . . . You may well be taking the p*ss but if not . . . That's a pretty slim demographic you're shooting for. And how many flat roofs have a handy projection surface in a convenient spot?
I'm searching - maybe an after dark garden party? But you'd need a projection screen. And why would you need a 'portable' Switch specific projector?
Not trying to be obtuse here - genuinely can't see what makes this useful.
Re: OJO, a Dedicated Nintendo Switch Projector, Launches Its Indiegogo Campaign Soon
Great - perfect for the portable nature of the Switch! I'm assuming the sexy little box has a portable white projection screen and a petrol generator tucked inside?
Seriously - looks cute and at first I was like 'oh cool' . . . but I'm struggling to figure out where and when this would be necessary?
Can it project onto clouds?
Re: Random: Here's The 'Switch Visor' - For The Lazy Players
There has to be some serious reflection going on inside that box - due to the material.
Re: Random: Here's The 'Switch Visor' - For The Lazy Players
@Donutman That's hilarious - well Bladerunner!
Re: Random: Here's The 'Switch Visor' - For The Lazy Players
@Donutman that is absolutely crackers and I love it!!
Re: Here Are the Key Lessons that Nintendo Learned from the Wii U
@crimsontadpoles I totally totally agree. It was a tricky enough prospect to explain in the first place.
Wii U is so obtuse - it's hard to say even and contains absolutely no clue at all as to what it is.
I bought one recently to give to my kids at Christmas and no one I've mentioned it too (a fair few people) has even heard of it!! A major console release from the most famous video game company - and it's invisible!! What!!
It's so mixed up - I love that they kept the Wii motes useable and created some amazing multiplayer games so groups can all play together. But the pitch and the brand was that it was all about 'U' - and only the latest Wii more pluses are really useable anyway - eh?!
Ideally they'd have found a brand that was unique and promoted the dual screen play. The Wii brand was tarnished by that point although it did retain huge market reach. Maybe they should have gone all out - ditched the Wii brand and come out with new controllers. But it would have been an expensive prospect - and they were unable to drop the price by much at all.
A brilliant mess in many ways. I'm really looking forward to using it and it's legacy games line up is pretty stellar so we'll have a ton of fun with it for years.
They've done a massively better job marketing the Switch - it's night and day. I love how they've gone about it. That's one big lesson they've definitely learned.
Re: Feature: VooFoo Studios On Why It's Full Speed Ahead for Mantis Burn Racing on Switch
@Graeme I agree - the controls were really nice. It wasn't as fast and nippy as some - Micro Machines for example - but the cars felt like they had weight and momentum. The slower pace made it better for the battling / shooting aspect I guess - it felt just right and the weapons were really nicely balanced. Great game.
Re: Feature: VooFoo Studios On Why It's Full Speed Ahead for Mantis Burn Racing on Switch
@kobashi100 I instantly dismiss any comment which references the 'lazy developer' trope.
1. Because it's blatently obvious they have never made and published a creative work of their own and had to rely on the income.
2. Because it's lazy thinking.
3. I'm too lazy to think of a 3rd reason.
Re: Feature: VooFoo Studios On Why It's Full Speed Ahead for Mantis Burn Racing on Switch
Played 'Super Cars 2' to death on the Amiga 500 back in the day. Enjoyed 'Micro Machines' as well.
Top down racers are pretty fun I recon - not sure why - I guess it makes it really satisfying when you nail a corner because you can really see the movement of the car on the road. There's also something about simplifying the view and the controls to a 2D environment that makes it feel fun - like with platformers and shoot em ups. You also get a really good view of the surrounding environment which can be used to great effect - thinking of 'Micro Machines' here of course.
And shooting other cars is way easier - shooting stuff is always good.
Re: A Just Dance 2018 Demo is Now Available on Nintendo Switch and Wii U
Oh cool an 'I hate' workshop!
I hate veggi sausages.
There, I feel much better now. Thanks!
Re: Behold The Majesty Of The SNES Classic Mini Game Manuals
@Shane76 I can understand them ditching print as digital presents such a simpler, more flexible and cheaper way of getting information to customers. However, that doesn't mean they can't produce beautiful digital manuals. They could be parcially animated and included with the game to be accessed through the menu. If the file size was an issue for carts they could make them a download option.
Someone else here made the point about them as an alternative to in game tutorials. I think game designers think that playing through the tutorial is more fun than reading a manual but I tend to disagree. I like the feeling of working out and remembering what to do using the written and drawn information - it emphasises the 'way finding' element of game playing over the route following one of tutorial play.
Re: Behold The Majesty Of The SNES Classic Mini Game Manuals
@BulkSlash Who knows - maybe they will!?
Dr.Captain Falcon? Mute City Chronicals? Nindenfalcons? BoxBoy 2.Falcon? Captain Falcons Pilot Wings Flying School for the Futuristically Insane? (Seriously - that one would be awesome!)