I'm going to wait until after E3 and E3 adjacent Directs and Treehouse events before I pass judgement on 'launch window' releases or this year's line-up. It could very well be that the deafening silence we are getting now is Nintendo trying to save some fire and magic for E3/Post E3 events so that they have something left to shout over everyone else's big reveals.
@electrolite77 But we are in a different era now - the global launch. And the western launch was - truly - the only launch that really mattered for the system. AND we are comparing western launch lineups.
@BiasedSonyFan So how about you don't pretend you know a damn thing and stop being an insulting troll. How about that?
If you are referring to the Dreamcast launch, it's not my opinion. It industry opinion.
As someone who owns damn near every mainstream and mainstream adjacent system and has been playing systems from nearly every console manufacturer and games from nearly every software developer across pretty much every genre, calling me in any way narrow or biased is insanely uniformed and ridiculous. I cut my teeth on pong and games on the Apple II/IIe and VIC20 and C64 and have been 'console' gaming from the Pong clones forward. An objective and industry view of the launch, coupled with sale figures from launch bear out my statements. What is your damage?
@Sir_funkington The Dreamcast had one of the strongest and most interesting; launch lineups in the history of gaming. Still considered to be amongst the best. Smoke less before posting.
It was also a record-breaking launch putting up record numbers for the entertainment industry as a whole, not just video games.
Aerowings
Air Force Delta
Armada
Blue Stinger
CART Racing
House of the Dead 2
Hydro Thunder
The King of Fighters: Dream Match 1999
Marvel vs. Capcom
Monaco Grand Prix
Mortal Kombat Gold
NFL Blitz 2000
NBA 2K
NFL 2K
PenPen Tricelon
Power Stone
Rainbow Six
Ready 2 Rumble
Slave Zero
Sonic Adventure
Soul Calibur
Soul Fighter
Speed Devils
TNN Motorsports HardCore Heat
Tokyo Xtreme Racer
TrickStyle
Things that happen when you rush a launch (in info vacuum) to hit an unreasonable deadline in a laughable fiscal quarter for game sales. This is idiocy.
I scrubbed through the video and gave up on it for two reasons.
1) I really want to keep my excitement up for the system and not spoil things too much... and
2) You guys are pros, but the video was really meh. Not the running commentary or demonstrations necessarily, but the fact that you appear to have manually fixed your focus but continuously missed the mark; everything was blurry.
You move the contents away from your focus point... towards the camera and out of focus. Just saying' It would have been nice to see some wide and some close in shots edited in similar to the official unboxing. Just a few sexy close ups edited in would have elevated this vid. Also, crisp focus.
With so many unboxing vids hitting or ready to hit the web, there's nothing wrong with going back and recapturing suboptimal footage and adding some b roll/cuts to step things up a little, imho.
Love this series. This is a definite must-have for me. This is more exciting than BotW to me, because it represents a very niche genre with the added caveat that the series itself is unique and quirky (in the best possible way)... and that's refreshing to see so close to launch. And especially awesome to see on a new Nintendo system.
Interesting and potentially exciting news. I won't get my hopes up, but I'd definitely put more faith in these guys than in Reggie's comments. He's become a corporate shill and a bit of a greasy snake oil pimp. Not a fan of his... or of NOA for the last few years.
But the notion that peripherals are open to customization and updates is pretty cool... although given current pricing, I fear more molesting of wallets.
I've been waiting for another game like this. Tank! Tank! Tank! is a lot of fun with friends, but ultimately shallow - To be expected given it's arcade origins. I seriously would have liked to have seen this on the Switch as this would make for both great couch multiplayer and a fun LAN gaming. Online is great, but up close and personal with friends is far more fun... and this would be a great budget title to fatten the Switch's library and offer yet another style of play during the launch window. Oh well.
@Grandpa_Pixel Other than Zelda, there are no stand-outs. And SLIGEACH_EIRE is right; it's a money pit. Everything you need to make it a whole console and complete from a value proposition is extra. It's neat, it's cool tech... but the way it's priced and what's included, the launch package objectively isn't good value. It's only through the eyes of a Nintendo fan who looks forward to their favorite 1st party games on the system that it becomes a day one purchase. I'm getting one for that reason, but I know I'm getting screwed and I'm kinda pissed. Nintendo knows this is the only way fans can play the newest iterations of their favorite games. The fact that they are using this to charge a premium for the system and overvalue/overprice everything else is troubling.
1-2 Switch should have been a pack-in. Its analogous to Nintendoland and would go a long way to further demonstrating the joy-con difference and what value they add to gameplay on the system. Instead, they charge full price for a tech demo with limited appeal. Bad move.
If they want money, let them sell their catalogue of IPs to a company that still has heart and a passion for making games. If this is the path they want to take, I wish they wouldn't be such scumbags about it, destroying a reputation and legacy that was built at the heart of the golden age of gaming. Screw Konami's suits. Bunch of soulless ghouls. Go make your casino and mobile money and let someone else continue the legacy.
Because it wasn't crazy to assume the Wii U would get good support eventually... and everyone did assume that. So... yeah.
And Skyrim was built on a custom engine.
The custom engine argument is only valid in that: The Switch most likely doesn't have the power under the hood to handle the more advanced custom engines and even if they bring them to the system, they would most likely take performance hits... which nearly aways translate into hits in the reviews, which then results in lower sales. Who wants to spend money and tie up resources developing a lessor product that may not even make up the cost of development... on an untested system full of very gimmick-like tech... with an unknown user base at present?
@JKRiki While I agree, that's going to be a much shorter list of announcements if things keep up the way they are. Fingers crossed for some big E3 announcements...
@Anti-Matter And that's great... but do you realize how incredibly specific and personal your list is? Nintendo aren't your personal developers. Also, many Japanese developers are producing fewer games overall and trying to find their voice and 'Nihon-ness' in 2017 while remaining relevant to the MUCH more robust western game market, the Japanese market is in a severe slump especially where it relates to console specific gaming, the arcades that normally helped fill in the gap between more substantial games with fun ports are also dying, the gaming public demographic continues to diversify and skew older... and your wish list is what you thing Nintendo should concentrate on? What you thing will make them successful?
@Link118 Exactly. Thank you. Limiting options and developers helps no one. They should take their own Switch meds and flip the script. Yes - maybe their design philosophy is inspired... but just think of where their own IP would be right now if they didn't go the withered tech route. Their are many examples from interviews or even Miyamoto himself lamenting being held up by Nintendo's own tech. He and other Nintendo developers have held back implementing gameplay elements and mechanics because they couldn't pull them off on the systems they were developing for.
A $400 Switch - as capable or more than PS4 or XBOXONE - with all of the wonderful, fun (if inherently gimmicky) Switch and Joy-Con tech would be an unstoppable juggernaut in my eyes.
@Smug43 No... no it is not. It was released on the 360 and PS3. Remastered or not, it's essence is last gen... which the Wii U was more powerful than by a hair, so the Switch should handle it easily, even with a few more of the PC bells and whistles turned on. That doesn't mean the Switch is on par with current systems or can handle 1:1 ports.
@Anti-Matter See, this is the problem. Nintendo fans have blinders on. It not about one or the other, it's about having the resources and muscle to deliver both. I've seen a few comments so far that are a lot like yours. 'I like' 'I want' 'this is how games show be/look play'.
Guess what. Your's isn't the only freakin' opinion and there are MANY gamers AND Nintendo fans that love the first party games, but are also tired of watching great games that just happened to look more 'realistic' passing them by. And they may not have the luxury of owning more than one system. Your argument is just as ridiculous as those who claim Nintendo's games suck because they are cartoonish or kiddy games - bashing them or avoiding them because of the aesthetic. Ridiculous. Skyrim is amazing! Just ask those who worked on Breath of the Wild; it was an inspiration for them while creating the open world and in particular the manner which they build it.
It's sad that people can't separate personal preference and what it takes in this generation of gaming to be a successful system that attracts talent from a wide variety of developers. Developers who have finite resources.
You can have a beast of a processor and leave it up to the developers how to use it. They are not mutually exclusive notions. But building the better, more powerful architecture can only make things easier on those companies developing for more than one system.
@Smug43 Your response makes absolutely no sense whatsoever. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is a freakin' 6 year old game. 6 years, not counting when development began. So it's remastered. So? It was a last gen game. Of course it's remastered. As far as developers not knowing. You haven't got a clue how things works, do you? Nintendo began courting 3rd parties a VERY long time ago... and a big part of that was evangelizing the news that developers don't have to rely on Nintendo toolkits anymore. And they get a complete tour of the system and it's architecture. What... do you think developers rely of site's like this to get their information of system specs?
Good lord. If you think my comments are 'mute' and the barriers facing the Switch aren't real, get ready to be disappointed.
They've caught a lot of hell for skipping the Wii U, but I completely understand why. They just really, REALLY suck at being completely honest in a timely manner. But they've joined what is becoming a chorus of voices letting us know that once again Nintendo has a system that - in spite of a relatively small number of cheerleaders producing games that don't need the horsepower - is just not powerful enough to handle even current gen level games. And that is a damn shame. Once again, I totally agree with the notion that the gameplay is the most important thing and that graphics don't necessarily make the game... but they are still extremely important. Not even necessarily the polygon count or raw number like that, but performance, frame rate, draw distance, handling complex physics engines and the like. And developers don't want to release ports or even native builds that compromise the game to the point that it effects the gameplay. Which we have affirmed is the most important thing. Additionally, why release a neutered version of the game on a system that has a small user base? The inferior version is already going to sell less, will probably be released last (for many reasons including putting the game's best foot forward for reviews) and won't offer the same value or gameplay experience.
I'm not saying the Switch is doomed, just that Nintendo is trapped in their own echo chamber and needs to be more aware of the world around them... or at least stop drinking their own koolaid. You can't keep released last gen systems and expect to sell enough to stay in the game or attract serious 3rd party support. (Support isn't a few launch window/year games/ports and then nothing, it's developing for the system throughout it's life, native builds instead of straight ports and games that take advantage pf the system's features)
@SLIGEACH_EIRE I love that there's a separate tin-foil hat for gamers who love conspiracy theories.
Good one. But the Switch doesn't make for a comparable portable gaming experience and would be a failure as an attempt to replace the 3DS. The 3DS market is much different than the Switch demographic. Even the price point rules it out as a successor.
@Spoony_Tech It does if it matches the specs of the competing systems. $400 for all of the power of an XBONE or PS4 with all of the hybrid fun and tech in the Switch + Nintendo's 1st party games = Switch > all of the rest. So, yeah. It really would have been nice to see some extra horsepower this time around.
@Mart1ndo I don't understand why... unless party games aren't 'your thing'. The Jack series of games are actually quite good and fun and it's a welcome addition to the lineup that adds breadth to the current selection. This game looks interesting as well. If they execute their core mechanic well, it too could provide something a little different to the current mix.
Huh... so much negativity I'm hearing about a game no one has played, but whatever. The gameplay looks interesting from what is shown. The visuals and animation look vibrant and smooth. I'm looking forward to hearing more.
If I still hadn't made up my mind about buying a Switch and Nintendo announced that they weren't going to allow RCMADIAX to 'develop' (I use that term loosely) for their new system, I would buy one just to support that decision. Gah.
TG16 games? Yes please. I love this version of Bomberman
I didn't say that the Wi U had a pack in... I know it didn't, except for the Deluxe. What I'm saying is, bang for the buck these current system offer more right out of the box and THEY have pack in games... and sometimes bundled extra controllers - case in point: PS4 Bundle with Uncharted, and extra Dual shock controller: $318 Currently sold out, but I almost went for it... and I was just researching at the time). And if you don't think you'll be taking your system on the go on the regular, that's the only real difference outside of 1st party IPs. And whether or not gamers think we need an all in one box, they are still buying those systems and using the features. For many people, there's limited space at the table and limited gaming dollars. Nintendo can position itself any way that it wants, but it's still compete for that entertainment dollar and space on the entertainment center. Hardcore gamers aren't really Nintendo's fanbase anymore. It's going to be interesting to see what their fanbase susses out to be.
It's not just AAA western developers I'm worried about. There were more games and more variety at the Wii U launch and look what happened. But to your point, if there's 0% chance of that happening then there's 0% chance of this system being a mainstream success and it will struggle to even hit the Gamecube mark. As much as we hate to admit it, those AAA titles are the key to worldwide 3rd party support... because they move systems. Especially if they play to the Switch's various strengths to make them one of a kind experiences and definitive versions that gamers will covet. But to ignore their role in the Switch's survival is dangerous. As for storage, multiple 'cheaper/smaller' cards add up to be quite a bit more than saving up for a larger, better quality card. Especially when you factor in fail rates and data speed.
I love all of my gaming systems, but even I as a collector am starting to pare down my connected systems in favor of streamlining my entertainment experience. I don't like having to switch around to different device, fire them up, fire up the app... etc etc etc and would rather that my center was less cluttered and my entertainment experience more streamlined. I know I'm not alone. If Nintendo were to work directly with Netflix, Hulu and other providers to put together the absolute best UI/UX experience, they would own the media center; people don't like to switch if they don't have to. If you're the system that is in use for everything else, you're also the system that gets the gaming dollar as you are foremost in the mind and present every time the TV fires up. Positioning, bang for the buck and streamlining entertainment experiences. How you win.
And I really appreciate your thoughtful and well argued response. Makes discussing these things so much more fun.
@Syrek24 What an ignorant, subjective, uninformed, judgmental and completely pulled out of your ass non-argument. Everything you say or have said has just been rendered invalid due to a complete lack of a thought process, an objective view or even a moments pause to think things through properly. You are wrong on so many levels and didn't even bother to properly debate facts laid out in front of you.
Fanboy. A large number of systems thus far have gone to scalpers, individuals trying to get their share of the scalper money, people with disposable income who just have to have the latest tech even if there's a decent chance they'll play it for a few months and be done and people on the fence who didn't want to take a chance on not being able to get a system, but at the same time are taking advantage of the fact that they won't be billed until it ships and therefore can change their mind.
There are so many reasons not to get a Switch and instead invest in a more powerful, more complete entertainment experience with a more established system that has dozens of great games and many already discounted 'best sellers'. This is the reality Nintendo has to deal with and contrary to your nonsense, it's a very real concern for everyone... including investors.
And calling me cheap? Your ignorance of the facts is epic. With the exception of the Vectrix and the PS4, I own pretty much every video game system (including handhelds) since the Odyssey 2, to include a Commodore 64 and a VIC20. I have a Switch, two extra sets of Joy-Cons, two charge grips, a Hori Stand, Zelda case and ear buds and several launch titles preordered through Amazon and Gamestop. I just haven't decided if I'm keeping them or selling them. I'll probably play them first, as I'm sure I can still make a profit on a gently used system if it turns out I don't dig it.
@invictus4000 No. No it's not. Regardless of how interesting the tech is behind it, for a system that many see as one giant (albeit cool) gimmick from a company coming off of it's biggest home console failure that had a similar 'gimmick' (but actually had a pack in game) it's a bit pricey on top of the leap of faith. Add to that the uncertainty of real 3rd party support, lack of streaming apps at launch (yes... it is big whether people want to admit it or not), how the price compares to existing and more powerful systems with large libraries of great games, a game bundled with the system AND optical media playback as well as streaming and other apps, a small launch title selection, the cost of adding storage (which is a must when Zelda takes up about 40% of the storage after accounting for space reserved for the system and the fact that a growing number of launch titles are download only) and you have damaged value proposition.
@DeltaPeng You clearly don't understand my point (or you're ignoring it) and you're locked into this burn cycle where only your reality and definition of a Nintendo gamer holds any weight, so I honestly have to pass on any more discussion after this. I even built the comparison base on what games you said you'd being buying and playing and extrapolated out from there. Whether you buy it at launch or later, more storage will be needed for most gamers and it's far more expensive than a HDD. And going forward, Nintendo is going to push digital even harder. Many will find they prefer he convenience of digital over physical. Storage will fill quickly.
Encouraging play outside of the home, but eliminating Streetpass. That... is just stupid. Miis and Streetpass would be a perfect fit. Especially with a 'nearby' function that would let you know someone was packing a Switch and open to playing. What a short-sighted move and missed opportunity. And Miis could have been expanded even further and maybe even evolved a little. But let's just hide them instead.
Seriously, I love messing with creating Miis. And how awesome would it be... especially since they are big on making you use your phone... if an alert was sent from your Switch to your Gear or Apple watch that let you know someone was in the area, playing a game you want to play and wants to play.
You. Cannot. Use. Two. Joy-Con. Controllers. To. Play. With. More. Than. One. Friend.
One friend and you = Included controllers. More than one friend and you = Additional controllers @ $80.
I said $10 a month or $60 if you pay for the whole year... that is exactly what it costs for a Live Subscription.
There is a PS4 bundle right now on Amazon (inferior... wow dude. Reeeeeeeeeeeach) with Uncharted AND an extra controller. The system, a game and an extra controller (Stay with me here - we are now at 2 controllers) brand freakin' new for $318. And even without the bundle, the system goes for $299. I don't know where you got $399. Now add $50 for the sub (free games dude), and hell... let's throw in another game at $60 and two more controllers @ $60 (they've been going for less lately, but I'll give you this)... and I now have a system that has DVD and Bluray, Netflix and other streaming apps, gives me free games with my sub, four controllers, two games and a 500GB HDD. I'm at $548 right now and already have more going for me/better value proposition.
Anther controller is unnecessary? Only if you have no friends or family that game.
I only mention the multiple games because you used those as selling points and examples of what you would purchase, so not a mute point.
They said that they are evaluating Netflix and external HDD. They have made no guarantees and if they do bring on board streaming apps, chances are it will be locked behind the online sub pay wall (like Microsoft used to do with live) and probably from your damn phone.
And yes... we live in a world where tech does and should do more.
For both the Dreamcast and the Gamecube, not having DVD was a factor in their demise. While that may not carry the same weight today, families and people on a budget have limited funds and space for systems and electronics in general. Why would you make a dedicated box that removes all other entertainment functions and then try to compete for that $ and space?
And honestly, I could replace that $60 game with 3 really great discounted games, as the system has a decent selection of triple A titles that are now budget ranged.
I'm not saying that the Switch isn't interesting and doesn't have some cool tech. I'm not saying that the idea of quasi-portable gaming on a home system (we have to think differently about what we call 'portable' for that to stick) isn't a cool notion, what I'm saying is that it's all over-valued and unlike a company like SONY that has other products and divisions it can fall back on, Nintendo might not even be ABLE to take a loss on the system, although they are the only company that refuses to. But even if they could and did, if they didn't also lower the price of peripherals and price games like 1-2 Switch more realistically (or just freakin' pack it in), they wouldn't get the attach rate they'd need.
@LegendOfPokemon Thank you for understanding where I was coming from. I don't even own a PS4, but after doing my own research I've almost convinced myself to pull the trigger on one... especially since I'm a big jrpg fan and love the Persona/Shin Megami Tensei games.
The Switch will be a niche product and coveted by Nintendo fans for the foreseeable future, imho... unless Nintendo corrects it's pricing or offers compelling bundles and corrects their value proposition. They could very well end up with another Gamecube (I think it will do better than the Wii U) situation, which I don't believe will be able to carry them to another system. I don't think it's too late for them to out things out and maybe throw out some surprises at E3, but it's not an ideal launch (or launch window) and they've already lost momentum and investor's confidence (and the market has spoken as a result).
It's a bit ironic that one of the companies that ignited my passion for gaming has over the last several years really thrown water on that passion. I'm tired of their bs, promises, marketing double-speak, ill conceived launches, distribution and supply manipulation, greed and over-inflated self worth. I'm taking a break from their marketing babble and over-priced future and giving myself some room to fall in love with gaming again.
@Grez You beat me to it. I actually heard about this a few days ago and my first thought was 'much like everything else they do online, Nintendo is years behind... and now they are going to pull a Microsoft XBOX Live'. Up until 3 years ago, you had to pay for XBOX Live if you wanted to use streaming apps like Netflix. Microsoft wised up and removed the pay wall, but I wouldn't be surprised if Nintendo made you stream from your phone and charged for that option as part of their online service.
The bottom line is, the value proposition of the Switch continues to drop. I'll use the PS4 as an example again.
So to break it down, I could buy a PS4 Slim Uncharted 500GB bundle for $318 right now, bundled with an extra Dual Shock 4 controller, and I could add a PSN subscription for $50 (with free games every month), and I'd only be spending just under $400 with tax. Add two more controllers and you're at $520. And you have DVD and Bluray playback AND streaming services.
To get the Switch with extra joy-con and 512GB of memory and one game (but no online subscription): $740.
@DrRandle You have to pay to play Mario Kart online, if you have more than one friend that you want to play Mario Kart with locally, that's an extra $80 you HAVE to spend. The game itself is $60, Zelda is $60, we don't know the price of the online service, but an educated guess would be at least $10 a month or $60 if you pay for the whole year.
So if you want to get the most out of Mario Kart and actually play with friends, you're going to be in it for $300 for the system, $60 for the game, $80 for extra controllers, $60 for online gaming. So, $500. Plus another $60 for Zelda. $560.
And you can only play games. Period.
Unless you want to play by yourself or one other person.
So it comes down to preference and budget I guess.
@faint I can't argue with someone who actually believes - in spite of facts and reality - that systems ports would actually be worse on the PS4... a system more powerful that the Switch. I can't even believe you just said that.
@BiasedSonyFan A) I'm not a SONY fan, B) I don't even own a PS4, but that doesn't mean that I ignore common sense and facts, C) your arguments are those of a Nintendo Fanboy and ignore facts and reality, D) I got the prices from Amazon and it includes enough memory to make the comparison even... but that fact that you don't believe you'll need more than 32GB of storage leads me to believe I shouldn't even be debating with you. Breath of the Wild alone - after accounting for storage reserved for systems functions and files - takes up about 40% of the remaining storage space. And that's before any updates, DLC, etc. You are living in a fantasy world.
@DeltaPeng I am comparing apples to apples, not trying to go for the cheapest set up. The PS4 has a 500GB HDD. If you want comparable storage (and you will, trust me - games, updates for games, system files, OS, firmware updates, apps when they start to appear, files for inline services, etc etc etc... it will fill up fast) you have to pay around $300 beyond the system price. And you need to think about what you are saying. Latest and greatest? When it comes to memory, you don't mess around... reliability (so you don't lose everything) and especially speed (for performance) are key. There are probably minimum requirements for the cards below which performance will be effected... or may not play at all. An even if I add two more controllers, the PS4 bundle I highlighted is STILL less expensive, includes optical media playback, streaming services, user swappable HDD (upgrade for far less than card memory) and online services that include actually free games every month).
@blinder2 The notion that most people won't need and extra set of Joy-Cons is silly... and if you think about what you are positing, a bit sad as that means they don't have many friends or family. But I digress a little. And by the way... it's just one system that you can take with you... and the more I think about it, the less I'm thinking that I will be doing that. It's not really super portable. I can pick up my 3DS and throw it in my pocket or jacket or just palm it if I'm going for a walk... especially in the summer.
You just can't do that with the Switch. And seriously.... I just outlined that the PS4 with all of the trimmings is still less... AND provides DVD and Bluray playback AND has streaming services AND you can swap out a larger HDD for MUCH cheaper than adding memory to the Switch (which is capped at 512 right now due to the tech not being there). But it's still far less than the Switch. And even at launch it was cheaper to get all of this AND a PS+ subscription, which throws free games at you every month.
So I really don't see what your argument is at all. The PS4 has massive support and great games, including some of the best rpgs/jrpgs out there. I don't own one yet, but in doing my research and looking at what I'm getting with a Switch purchase, I'm leaning towards selling my preorder and getting a PS4. I'll get my Switch when the price drops or there's an enticing bundle and wait for the hardware shakedown period and all of the coming firmware updates.
@faint The PS4 - a console STILL more powerful that the Switch and with MASSIVE 3rd party support, was available at launch through Amazon as a bundle with one game, and a one year subscription to PS+ (Including free games every month - not trials) for $499. Add a game for $60 and you're still far cheaper than a comparable package for the Switch. $560 vs over $700.
Oh wait! It isn't even remotely comparable! Because you haven't paid for a subscription yet, the PS4 also gives you DVD and Bluray playback AND streaming services like Netflix AND you can upgrade you HDD easily yourself on the cheap. So while I'm not a SONY fanboy, nor do I yet own a PS4, your argument - while pithy - is invalid.
@cfgk24 There is interesting and cool tech behind the controller options, but I certainly wouldn't say it's higher tech than the competition. They are different and have different strengths.
The PS4 is a really decent system with a good breadth of content and a steady stream of rpgs/jrpgs (makes me happy). To pick up a 500GB PS4 Slim bundled with Uncharted and an extra controller and with PS+ subscription, it would cost me just under $400 with taxes... and I'll have a compelling library of budget titles to choose from waiting for me. I'll also be able to play Blurays, DVDs and stream content using a variety of multimedia apps. I can also upgrade storage on the cheap. PS+ = free games every month, not a trial period.
To buy a Switch, a game, an extra set of Joy-Cons and then buy a Micro SD card to bring the system to comparable storage levels, I'd have to shell out over $700. Not including an online subscription for the system. No Bluray or DVD playback, no Netflix or other multimedia streaming. The option for external HDD storage is disabled and may not happen.
Portability? How about a 'NEW' 3DS XL and a VITA (for which my PS+ subscription gives me free games every month.
@N1ntendodo While it is fair enough to wait for pricing, given the way they've overvalued everything else for this launch I don't see that changing when they are looking at SONY and Microsoft raking in $50-$60 dollars for a sub. The difference being, both of those services are proven and established and offer far more value at that price with free content and games. Not some pathetic trial period. And having undervalued online services for so long, I don't know if they are ready or able to handle a real online service as most gamers understand it. And what in the hell would I want with a service that requires I use my phone to interact and for voice chat (while killing two screen gaming and interface for their system).
Comments 747
Re: Guide: Nintendo Switch Launch Games & Release Dates 2017
@Sir_funkington I'm classy af.
Re: Feature: FAST RMX - The Price, Modes and Performance of Switch's Futuristic Racer
Day one for me. Beautiful and fast, HD Rumble and the new graphics modes are exciting.
Re: Guide: Nintendo Switch Launch Games & Release Dates 2017
I'm going to wait until after E3 and E3 adjacent Directs and Treehouse events before I pass judgement on 'launch window' releases or this year's line-up. It could very well be that the deafening silence we are getting now is Nintendo trying to save some fire and magic for E3/Post E3 events so that they have something left to shout over everyone else's big reveals.
Re: You Can Toggle Between HD And 8-bit Versions Of Wonder Boy: Dragon's Trap At Will
That's really fun! I'd have enjoyed a 16bit vibe as well, but this is a sweet addition!
Re: Parent Trap: A Family Gamer's Perspective On The Nintendo Switch
Thank you for this. I really enjoyed this perspective!
Re: Guide: Nintendo Switch Launch Games & Release Dates 2017
@electrolite77 But we are in a different era now - the global launch. And the western launch was - truly - the only launch that really mattered for the system. AND we are comparing western launch lineups.
Re: Guide: Nintendo Switch Launch Games & Release Dates 2017
@BiasedSonyFan So how about you don't pretend you know a damn thing and stop being an insulting troll. How about that?
If you are referring to the Dreamcast launch, it's not my opinion. It industry opinion.
As someone who owns damn near every mainstream and mainstream adjacent system and has been playing systems from nearly every console manufacturer and games from nearly every software developer across pretty much every genre, calling me in any way narrow or biased is insanely uniformed and ridiculous. I cut my teeth on pong and games on the Apple II/IIe and VIC20 and C64 and have been 'console' gaming from the Pong clones forward. An objective and industry view of the launch, coupled with sale figures from launch bear out my statements. What is your damage?
Re: Guide: Nintendo Switch Launch Games & Release Dates 2017
@Sir_funkington The Dreamcast had one of the strongest and most interesting; launch lineups in the history of gaming. Still considered to be amongst the best. Smoke less before posting.
It was also a record-breaking launch putting up record numbers for the entertainment industry as a whole, not just video games.
Aerowings
Air Force Delta
Armada
Blue Stinger
CART Racing
House of the Dead 2
Hydro Thunder
The King of Fighters: Dream Match 1999
Marvel vs. Capcom
Monaco Grand Prix
Mortal Kombat Gold
NFL Blitz 2000
NBA 2K
NFL 2K
PenPen Tricelon
Power Stone
Rainbow Six
Ready 2 Rumble
Slave Zero
Sonic Adventure
Soul Calibur
Soul Fighter
Speed Devils
TNN Motorsports HardCore Heat
Tokyo Xtreme Racer
TrickStyle
Re: Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons Are Disconnecting, And No One Seems To Know Why
Things that happen when you rush a launch (in info vacuum) to hit an unreasonable deadline in a laughable fiscal quarter for game sales. This is idiocy.
Re: Gallery: Let's Compare The Nintendo Switch To Other Handhelds
@surferboy64 Um... look at the last image.
Re: Video: You Are Cordially Invited To The Nintendo Switch Unboxing Ceremony
I scrubbed through the video and gave up on it for two reasons.
1) I really want to keep my excitement up for the system and not spoil things too much... and
2) You guys are pros, but the video was really meh. Not the running commentary or demonstrations necessarily, but the fact that you appear to have manually fixed your focus but continuously missed the mark; everything was blurry.
You move the contents away from your focus point... towards the camera and out of focus. Just saying' It would have been nice to see some wide and some close in shots edited in similar to the official unboxing. Just a few sexy close ups edited in would have elevated this vid. Also, crisp focus.
With so many unboxing vids hitting or ready to hit the web, there's nothing wrong with going back and recapturing suboptimal footage and adding some b roll/cuts to step things up a little, imho.
Thanks for doing it though.
Re: Disgaea 5 Complete Gets A Solid Release Date For Nintendo Switch
Love this series. This is a definite must-have for me. This is more exciting than BotW to me, because it represents a very niche genre with the added caveat that the series itself is unique and quirky (in the best possible way)... and that's refreshing to see so close to launch. And especially awesome to see on a new Nintendo system.
Re: Go! Go! Kokopolo 3D Dashes Onto the 3DS eShop Soon in North America
@Elanczewski 'characteristical DS grahpic'
Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa... ?
Also, this game looks like bunch of happy slappy light-hearted fun, of which I could sure use some.
Re: Interview: Tomorrow Corporation On Supporting Switch And Why It Loves Nintendo
Great games aside, I pretty much want to hang out with these guys and maybe hit up a barcade...
Re: There's No 'Concrete Answer' for GameCube on the Switch Virtual Console, But There's Hope
Interesting and potentially exciting news. I won't get my hopes up, but I'd definitely put more faith in these guys than in Reggie's comments. He's become a corporate shill and a bit of a greasy snake oil pimp. Not a fan of his... or of NOA for the last few years.
But the notion that peripherals are open to customization and updates is pretty cool... although given current pricing, I fear more molesting of wallets.
Re: Video: Nintendo Really Wants You to Try Tank Troopers
I've been waiting for another game like this. Tank! Tank! Tank! is a lot of fun with friends, but ultimately shallow - To be expected given it's arcade origins. I seriously would have liked to have seen this on the Switch as this would make for both great couch multiplayer and a fun LAN gaming. Online is great, but up close and personal with friends is far more fun... and this would be a great budget title to fatten the Switch's library and offer yet another style of play during the launch window. Oh well.
Re: Video: These Japanese Commercials For 1-2-Switch Are Utterly Charming
@Grandpa_Pixel Other than Zelda, there are no stand-outs. And SLIGEACH_EIRE is right; it's a money pit. Everything you need to make it a whole console and complete from a value proposition is extra. It's neat, it's cool tech... but the way it's priced and what's included, the launch package objectively isn't good value. It's only through the eyes of a Nintendo fan who looks forward to their favorite 1st party games on the system that it becomes a day one purchase. I'm getting one for that reason, but I know I'm getting screwed and I'm kinda pissed. Nintendo knows this is the only way fans can play the newest iterations of their favorite games. The fact that they are using this to charge a premium for the system and overvalue/overprice everything else is troubling.
1-2 Switch should have been a pack-in. Its analogous to Nintendoland and would go a long way to further demonstrating the joy-con difference and what value they add to gameplay on the system. Instead, they charge full price for a tech demo with limited appeal. Bad move.
Re: Kojima-Free Konami Is Doing Just Fine, Thanks Very Much
If they want money, let them sell their catalogue of IPs to a company that still has heart and a passion for making games. If this is the path they want to take, I wish they wouldn't be such scumbags about it, destroying a reputation and legacy that was built at the heart of the golden age of gaming. Screw Konami's suits. Bunch of soulless ghouls. Go make your casino and mobile money and let someone else continue the legacy.
Re: Project CARS 2 Creative Director Loves Nintendo Switch, But Don't Expect A Port
@CircuitWrangler3
Um...
Because it wasn't crazy to assume the Wii U would get good support eventually... and everyone did assume that. So... yeah.
And Skyrim was built on a custom engine.
The custom engine argument is only valid in that: The Switch most likely doesn't have the power under the hood to handle the more advanced custom engines and even if they bring them to the system, they would most likely take performance hits... which nearly aways translate into hits in the reviews, which then results in lower sales. Who wants to spend money and tie up resources developing a lessor product that may not even make up the cost of development... on an untested system full of very gimmick-like tech... with an unknown user base at present?
Re: Project CARS 2 Creative Director Loves Nintendo Switch, But Don't Expect A Port
@JKRiki Agreed!
Re: Project CARS 2 Creative Director Loves Nintendo Switch, But Don't Expect A Port
@JKRiki While I agree, that's going to be a much shorter list of announcements if things keep up the way they are. Fingers crossed for some big E3 announcements...
Re: Project CARS 2 Creative Director Loves Nintendo Switch, But Don't Expect A Port
@Anti-Matter And that's great... but do you realize how incredibly specific and personal your list is? Nintendo aren't your personal developers. Also, many Japanese developers are producing fewer games overall and trying to find their voice and 'Nihon-ness' in 2017 while remaining relevant to the MUCH more robust western game market, the Japanese market is in a severe slump especially where it relates to console specific gaming, the arcades that normally helped fill in the gap between more substantial games with fun ports are also dying, the gaming public demographic continues to diversify and skew older... and your wish list is what you thing Nintendo should concentrate on? What you thing will make them successful?
Oh dear...
Re: Project CARS 2 Creative Director Loves Nintendo Switch, But Don't Expect A Port
@Link118 Exactly. Thank you. Limiting options and developers helps no one. They should take their own Switch meds and flip the script. Yes - maybe their design philosophy is inspired... but just think of where their own IP would be right now if they didn't go the withered tech route. Their are many examples from interviews or even Miyamoto himself lamenting being held up by Nintendo's own tech. He and other Nintendo developers have held back implementing gameplay elements and mechanics because they couldn't pull them off on the systems they were developing for.
A $400 Switch - as capable or more than PS4 or XBOXONE - with all of the wonderful, fun (if inherently gimmicky) Switch and Joy-Con tech would be an unstoppable juggernaut in my eyes.
Re: Project CARS 2 Creative Director Loves Nintendo Switch, But Don't Expect A Port
@Smug43 No... no it is not. It was released on the 360 and PS3. Remastered or not, it's essence is last gen... which the Wii U was more powerful than by a hair, so the Switch should handle it easily, even with a few more of the PC bells and whistles turned on. That doesn't mean the Switch is on par with current systems or can handle 1:1 ports.
Please Stahp.
Re: Project CARS 2 Creative Director Loves Nintendo Switch, But Don't Expect A Port
@Anti-Matter See, this is the problem. Nintendo fans have blinders on. It not about one or the other, it's about having the resources and muscle to deliver both. I've seen a few comments so far that are a lot like yours. 'I like' 'I want' 'this is how games show be/look play'.
Guess what. Your's isn't the only freakin' opinion and there are MANY gamers AND Nintendo fans that love the first party games, but are also tired of watching great games that just happened to look more 'realistic' passing them by. And they may not have the luxury of owning more than one system. Your argument is just as ridiculous as those who claim Nintendo's games suck because they are cartoonish or kiddy games - bashing them or avoiding them because of the aesthetic. Ridiculous. Skyrim is amazing! Just ask those who worked on Breath of the Wild; it was an inspiration for them while creating the open world and in particular the manner which they build it.
It's sad that people can't separate personal preference and what it takes in this generation of gaming to be a successful system that attracts talent from a wide variety of developers. Developers who have finite resources.
You can have a beast of a processor and leave it up to the developers how to use it. They are not mutually exclusive notions. But building the better, more powerful architecture can only make things easier on those companies developing for more than one system.
Re: Project CARS 2 Creative Director Loves Nintendo Switch, But Don't Expect A Port
@Smug43 Your response makes absolutely no sense whatsoever. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is a freakin' 6 year old game. 6 years, not counting when development began. So it's remastered. So? It was a last gen game. Of course it's remastered. As far as developers not knowing. You haven't got a clue how things works, do you? Nintendo began courting 3rd parties a VERY long time ago... and a big part of that was evangelizing the news that developers don't have to rely on Nintendo toolkits anymore. And they get a complete tour of the system and it's architecture. What... do you think developers rely of site's like this to get their information of system specs?
Good lord. If you think my comments are 'mute' and the barriers facing the Switch aren't real, get ready to be disappointed.
Re: Project CARS 2 Creative Director Loves Nintendo Switch, But Don't Expect A Port
They've caught a lot of hell for skipping the Wii U, but I completely understand why. They just really, REALLY suck at being completely honest in a timely manner. But they've joined what is becoming a chorus of voices letting us know that once again Nintendo has a system that - in spite of a relatively small number of cheerleaders producing games that don't need the horsepower - is just not powerful enough to handle even current gen level games. And that is a damn shame. Once again, I totally agree with the notion that the gameplay is the most important thing and that graphics don't necessarily make the game... but they are still extremely important. Not even necessarily the polygon count or raw number like that, but performance, frame rate, draw distance, handling complex physics engines and the like. And developers don't want to release ports or even native builds that compromise the game to the point that it effects the gameplay. Which we have affirmed is the most important thing. Additionally, why release a neutered version of the game on a system that has a small user base? The inferior version is already going to sell less, will probably be released last (for many reasons including putting the game's best foot forward for reviews) and won't offer the same value or gameplay experience.
I'm not saying the Switch is doomed, just that Nintendo is trapped in their own echo chamber and needs to be more aware of the world around them... or at least stop drinking their own koolaid. You can't keep released last gen systems and expect to sell enough to stay in the game or attract serious 3rd party support. (Support isn't a few launch window/year games/ports and then nothing, it's developing for the system throughout it's life, native builds instead of straight ports and games that take advantage pf the system's features)
Re: Kimishima Outlines Nintendo's Continued Attention on VR and Portable System Ideas
@SLIGEACH_EIRE I love that there's a separate tin-foil hat for gamers who love conspiracy theories.
Good one. But the Switch doesn't make for a comparable portable gaming experience and would be a failure as an attempt to replace the 3DS. The 3DS market is much different than the Switch demographic. Even the price point rules it out as a successor.
Re: ARM Confirms That The Nintendo Switch's Chipset Is Very Close To Tegra X1 Spec
@Spoony_Tech It does if it matches the specs of the competing systems. $400 for all of the power of an XBONE or PS4 with all of the hybrid fun and tech in the Switch + Nintendo's 1st party games = Switch > all of the rest. So, yeah. It really would have been nice to see some extra horsepower this time around.
Re: Snake Pass is Slithering Its Way To Switch
@Mart1ndo I don't understand why... unless party games aren't 'your thing'. The Jack series of games are actually quite good and fun and it's a welcome addition to the lineup that adds breadth to the current selection. This game looks interesting as well. If they execute their core mechanic well, it too could provide something a little different to the current mix.
Re: Snake Pass is Slithering Its Way To Switch
Huh... so much negativity I'm hearing about a game no one has played, but whatever. The gameplay looks interesting from what is shown. The visuals and animation look vibrant and smooth. I'm looking forward to hearing more.
Re: Nintendo Download: 2nd February (North America)
If I still hadn't made up my mind about buying a Switch and Nintendo announced that they weren't going to allow RCMADIAX to 'develop' (I use that term loosely) for their new system, I would buy one just to support that decision. Gah.
TG16 games? Yes please. I love this version of Bomberman
(The Sega Saturn version is still the best https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqfmb49P7d8).
Also going to give the Fire Emblem game a shot.
Re: Japanese Gamers Think Nintendo Switch Is Too Expensive, But Don't Mind Paying For Online Access
I didn't say that the Wi U had a pack in... I know it didn't, except for the Deluxe. What I'm saying is, bang for the buck these current system offer more right out of the box and THEY have pack in games... and sometimes bundled extra controllers - case in point: PS4 Bundle with Uncharted, and extra Dual shock controller: $318 Currently sold out, but I almost went for it... and I was just researching at the time). And if you don't think you'll be taking your system on the go on the regular, that's the only real difference outside of 1st party IPs. And whether or not gamers think we need an all in one box, they are still buying those systems and using the features. For many people, there's limited space at the table and limited gaming dollars. Nintendo can position itself any way that it wants, but it's still compete for that entertainment dollar and space on the entertainment center. Hardcore gamers aren't really Nintendo's fanbase anymore. It's going to be interesting to see what their fanbase susses out to be.
It's not just AAA western developers I'm worried about. There were more games and more variety at the Wii U launch and look what happened. But to your point, if there's 0% chance of that happening then there's 0% chance of this system being a mainstream success and it will struggle to even hit the Gamecube mark. As much as we hate to admit it, those AAA titles are the key to worldwide 3rd party support... because they move systems. Especially if they play to the Switch's various strengths to make them one of a kind experiences and definitive versions that gamers will covet. But to ignore their role in the Switch's survival is dangerous. As for storage, multiple 'cheaper/smaller' cards add up to be quite a bit more than saving up for a larger, better quality card. Especially when you factor in fail rates and data speed.
I love all of my gaming systems, but even I as a collector am starting to pare down my connected systems in favor of streamlining my entertainment experience. I don't like having to switch around to different device, fire them up, fire up the app... etc etc etc and would rather that my center was less cluttered and my entertainment experience more streamlined. I know I'm not alone. If Nintendo were to work directly with Netflix, Hulu and other providers to put together the absolute best UI/UX experience, they would own the media center; people don't like to switch if they don't have to. If you're the system that is in use for everything else, you're also the system that gets the gaming dollar as you are foremost in the mind and present every time the TV fires up. Positioning, bang for the buck and streamlining entertainment experiences. How you win.
And I really appreciate your thoughtful and well argued response. Makes discussing these things so much more fun.
Re: Japanese Gamers Think Nintendo Switch Is Too Expensive, But Don't Mind Paying For Online Access
@Syrek24 What an ignorant, subjective, uninformed, judgmental and completely pulled out of your ass non-argument. Everything you say or have said has just been rendered invalid due to a complete lack of a thought process, an objective view or even a moments pause to think things through properly. You are wrong on so many levels and didn't even bother to properly debate facts laid out in front of you.
Fanboy. A large number of systems thus far have gone to scalpers, individuals trying to get their share of the scalper money, people with disposable income who just have to have the latest tech even if there's a decent chance they'll play it for a few months and be done and people on the fence who didn't want to take a chance on not being able to get a system, but at the same time are taking advantage of the fact that they won't be billed until it ships and therefore can change their mind.
There are so many reasons not to get a Switch and instead invest in a more powerful, more complete entertainment experience with a more established system that has dozens of great games and many already discounted 'best sellers'. This is the reality Nintendo has to deal with and contrary to your nonsense, it's a very real concern for everyone... including investors.
And calling me cheap? Your ignorance of the facts is epic. With the exception of the Vectrix and the PS4, I own pretty much every video game system (including handhelds) since the Odyssey 2, to include a Commodore 64 and a VIC20. I have a Switch, two extra sets of Joy-Cons, two charge grips, a Hori Stand, Zelda case and ear buds and several launch titles preordered through Amazon and Gamestop. I just haven't decided if I'm keeping them or selling them. I'll probably play them first, as I'm sure I can still make a profit on a gently used system if it turns out I don't dig it.
So yeah... you are all kinds of wrong. And rude.
Have you preordered yours yet?
Re: Japanese Gamers Think Nintendo Switch Is Too Expensive, But Don't Mind Paying For Online Access
@invictus4000 No. No it's not. Regardless of how interesting the tech is behind it, for a system that many see as one giant (albeit cool) gimmick from a company coming off of it's biggest home console failure that had a similar 'gimmick' (but actually had a pack in game) it's a bit pricey on top of the leap of faith. Add to that the uncertainty of real 3rd party support, lack of streaming apps at launch (yes... it is big whether people want to admit it or not), how the price compares to existing and more powerful systems with large libraries of great games, a game bundled with the system AND optical media playback as well as streaming and other apps, a small launch title selection, the cost of adding storage (which is a must when Zelda takes up about 40% of the storage after accounting for space reserved for the system and the fact that a growing number of launch titles are download only) and you have damaged value proposition.
i.e. too expensive
Re: Editorial: Pricing Blunders Have Distorted The Narrative Around Nintendo Switch
@DeltaPeng You clearly don't understand my point (or you're ignoring it) and you're locked into this burn cycle where only your reality and definition of a Nintendo gamer holds any weight, so I honestly have to pass on any more discussion after this. I even built the comparison base on what games you said you'd being buying and playing and extrapolated out from there. Whether you buy it at launch or later, more storage will be needed for most gamers and it's far more expensive than a HDD. And going forward, Nintendo is going to push digital even harder. Many will find they prefer he convenience of digital over physical. Storage will fill quickly.
Re: Miis Are Still Part Of Nintendo's Future, But They're No Longer Compulsory
Encouraging play outside of the home, but eliminating Streetpass. That... is just stupid. Miis and Streetpass would be a perfect fit. Especially with a 'nearby' function that would let you know someone was packing a Switch and open to playing. What a short-sighted move and missed opportunity. And Miis could have been expanded even further and maybe even evolved a little. But let's just hide them instead.
Seriously, I love messing with creating Miis. And how awesome would it be... especially since they are big on making you use your phone... if an alert was sent from your Switch to your Gear or Apple watch that let you know someone was in the area, playing a game you want to play and wants to play.
Re: Editorial: Pricing Blunders Have Distorted The Narrative Around Nintendo Switch
You. Cannot. Use. Two. Joy-Con. Controllers. To. Play. With. More. Than. One. Friend.
One friend and you = Included controllers. More than one friend and you = Additional controllers @ $80.
I said $10 a month or $60 if you pay for the whole year... that is exactly what it costs for a Live Subscription.
There is a PS4 bundle right now on Amazon (inferior... wow dude. Reeeeeeeeeeeach) with Uncharted AND an extra controller. The system, a game and an extra controller (Stay with me here - we are now at 2 controllers) brand freakin' new for $318. And even without the bundle, the system goes for $299. I don't know where you got $399. Now add $50 for the sub (free games dude), and hell... let's throw in another game at $60 and two more controllers @ $60 (they've been going for less lately, but I'll give you this)... and I now have a system that has DVD and Bluray, Netflix and other streaming apps, gives me free games with my sub, four controllers, two games and a 500GB HDD. I'm at $548 right now and already have more going for me/better value proposition.
Anther controller is unnecessary? Only if you have no friends or family that game.
I only mention the multiple games because you used those as selling points and examples of what you would purchase, so not a mute point.
They said that they are evaluating Netflix and external HDD. They have made no guarantees and if they do bring on board streaming apps, chances are it will be locked behind the online sub pay wall (like Microsoft used to do with live) and probably from your damn phone.
And yes... we live in a world where tech does and should do more.
For both the Dreamcast and the Gamecube, not having DVD was a factor in their demise. While that may not carry the same weight today, families and people on a budget have limited funds and space for systems and electronics in general. Why would you make a dedicated box that removes all other entertainment functions and then try to compete for that $ and space?
And honestly, I could replace that $60 game with 3 really great discounted games, as the system has a decent selection of triple A titles that are now budget ranged.
I'm not saying that the Switch isn't interesting and doesn't have some cool tech. I'm not saying that the idea of quasi-portable gaming on a home system (we have to think differently about what we call 'portable' for that to stick) isn't a cool notion, what I'm saying is that it's all over-valued and unlike a company like SONY that has other products and divisions it can fall back on, Nintendo might not even be ABLE to take a loss on the system, although they are the only company that refuses to. But even if they could and did, if they didn't also lower the price of peripherals and price games like 1-2 Switch more realistically (or just freakin' pack it in), they wouldn't get the attach rate they'd need.
Re: Editorial: Pricing Blunders Have Distorted The Narrative Around Nintendo Switch
@LegendOfPokemon Thank you for understanding where I was coming from. I don't even own a PS4, but after doing my own research I've almost convinced myself to pull the trigger on one... especially since I'm a big jrpg fan and love the Persona/Shin Megami Tensei games.
The Switch will be a niche product and coveted by Nintendo fans for the foreseeable future, imho... unless Nintendo corrects it's pricing or offers compelling bundles and corrects their value proposition. They could very well end up with another Gamecube (I think it will do better than the Wii U) situation, which I don't believe will be able to carry them to another system. I don't think it's too late for them to out things out and maybe throw out some surprises at E3, but it's not an ideal launch (or launch window) and they've already lost momentum and investor's confidence (and the market has spoken as a result).
Re: Reggie on Wii U Support Going Forward
It's a bit ironic that one of the companies that ignited my passion for gaming has over the last several years really thrown water on that passion. I'm tired of their bs, promises, marketing double-speak, ill conceived launches, distribution and supply manipulation, greed and over-inflated self worth. I'm taking a break from their marketing babble and over-priced future and giving myself some room to fall in love with gaming again.
Re: Nintendo Switch Won't Have Video Streaming Services At Launch, But They're Being Considered
@Grez You beat me to it. I actually heard about this a few days ago and my first thought was 'much like everything else they do online, Nintendo is years behind... and now they are going to pull a Microsoft XBOX Live'. Up until 3 years ago, you had to pay for XBOX Live if you wanted to use streaming apps like Netflix. Microsoft wised up and removed the pay wall, but I wouldn't be surprised if Nintendo made you stream from your phone and charged for that option as part of their online service.
The bottom line is, the value proposition of the Switch continues to drop. I'll use the PS4 as an example again.
So to break it down, I could buy a PS4 Slim Uncharted 500GB bundle for $318 right now, bundled with an extra Dual Shock 4 controller, and I could add a PSN subscription for $50 (with free games every month), and I'd only be spending just under $400 with tax. Add two more controllers and you're at $520. And you have DVD and Bluray playback AND streaming services.
To get the Switch with extra joy-con and 512GB of memory and one game (but no online subscription): $740.
Re: Editorial: Pricing Blunders Have Distorted The Narrative Around Nintendo Switch
@DrRandle You have to pay to play Mario Kart online, if you have more than one friend that you want to play Mario Kart with locally, that's an extra $80 you HAVE to spend. The game itself is $60, Zelda is $60, we don't know the price of the online service, but an educated guess would be at least $10 a month or $60 if you pay for the whole year.
So if you want to get the most out of Mario Kart and actually play with friends, you're going to be in it for $300 for the system, $60 for the game, $80 for extra controllers, $60 for online gaming. So, $500. Plus another $60 for Zelda. $560.
And you can only play games. Period.
Unless you want to play by yourself or one other person.
So it comes down to preference and budget I guess.
Just sayin'.
Re: Editorial: Pricing Blunders Have Distorted The Narrative Around Nintendo Switch
@faint I can't argue with someone who actually believes - in spite of facts and reality - that systems ports would actually be worse on the PS4... a system more powerful that the Switch. I can't even believe you just said that.
Re: Editorial: Pricing Blunders Have Distorted The Narrative Around Nintendo Switch
@BiasedSonyFan A) I'm not a SONY fan, B) I don't even own a PS4, but that doesn't mean that I ignore common sense and facts, C) your arguments are those of a Nintendo Fanboy and ignore facts and reality, D) I got the prices from Amazon and it includes enough memory to make the comparison even... but that fact that you don't believe you'll need more than 32GB of storage leads me to believe I shouldn't even be debating with you. Breath of the Wild alone - after accounting for storage reserved for systems functions and files - takes up about 40% of the remaining storage space. And that's before any updates, DLC, etc. You are living in a fantasy world.
Re: Editorial: Pricing Blunders Have Distorted The Narrative Around Nintendo Switch
@DeltaPeng I am comparing apples to apples, not trying to go for the cheapest set up. The PS4 has a 500GB HDD. If you want comparable storage (and you will, trust me - games, updates for games, system files, OS, firmware updates, apps when they start to appear, files for inline services, etc etc etc... it will fill up fast) you have to pay around $300 beyond the system price. And you need to think about what you are saying. Latest and greatest? When it comes to memory, you don't mess around... reliability (so you don't lose everything) and especially speed (for performance) are key. There are probably minimum requirements for the cards below which performance will be effected... or may not play at all. An even if I add two more controllers, the PS4 bundle I highlighted is STILL less expensive, includes optical media playback, streaming services, user swappable HDD (upgrade for far less than card memory) and online services that include actually free games every month).
Re: Editorial: Pricing Blunders Have Distorted The Narrative Around Nintendo Switch
@blinder2 The notion that most people won't need and extra set of Joy-Cons is silly... and if you think about what you are positing, a bit sad as that means they don't have many friends or family. But I digress a little. And by the way... it's just one system that you can take with you... and the more I think about it, the less I'm thinking that I will be doing that. It's not really super portable. I can pick up my 3DS and throw it in my pocket or jacket or just palm it if I'm going for a walk... especially in the summer.
You just can't do that with the Switch. And seriously.... I just outlined that the PS4 with all of the trimmings is still less... AND provides DVD and Bluray playback AND has streaming services AND you can swap out a larger HDD for MUCH cheaper than adding memory to the Switch (which is capped at 512 right now due to the tech not being there). But it's still far less than the Switch. And even at launch it was cheaper to get all of this AND a PS+ subscription, which throws free games at you every month.
So I really don't see what your argument is at all. The PS4 has massive support and great games, including some of the best rpgs/jrpgs out there. I don't own one yet, but in doing my research and looking at what I'm getting with a Switch purchase, I'm leaning towards selling my preorder and getting a PS4. I'll get my Switch when the price drops or there's an enticing bundle and wait for the hardware shakedown period and all of the coming firmware updates.
Re: Editorial: Pricing Blunders Have Distorted The Narrative Around Nintendo Switch
@faint The PS4 - a console STILL more powerful that the Switch and with MASSIVE 3rd party support, was available at launch through Amazon as a bundle with one game, and a one year subscription to PS+ (Including free games every month - not trials) for $499. Add a game for $60 and you're still far cheaper than a comparable package for the Switch. $560 vs over $700.
Oh wait! It isn't even remotely comparable! Because you haven't paid for a subscription yet, the PS4 also gives you DVD and Bluray playback AND streaming services like Netflix AND you can upgrade you HDD easily yourself on the cheap. So while I'm not a SONY fanboy, nor do I yet own a PS4, your argument - while pithy - is invalid.
Re: Editorial: Pricing Blunders Have Distorted The Narrative Around Nintendo Switch
@cfgk24 There is interesting and cool tech behind the controller options, but I certainly wouldn't say it's higher tech than the competition. They are different and have different strengths.
Re: Editorial: Pricing Blunders Have Distorted The Narrative Around Nintendo Switch
The PS4 is a really decent system with a good breadth of content and a steady stream of rpgs/jrpgs (makes me happy). To pick up a 500GB PS4 Slim bundled with Uncharted and an extra controller and with PS+ subscription, it would cost me just under $400 with taxes... and I'll have a compelling library of budget titles to choose from waiting for me. I'll also be able to play Blurays, DVDs and stream content using a variety of multimedia apps. I can also upgrade storage on the cheap. PS+ = free games every month, not a trial period.
To buy a Switch, a game, an extra set of Joy-Cons and then buy a Micro SD card to bring the system to comparable storage levels, I'd have to shell out over $700. Not including an online subscription for the system. No Bluray or DVD playback, no Netflix or other multimedia streaming. The option for external HDD storage is disabled and may not happen.
Portability? How about a 'NEW' 3DS XL and a VITA (for which my PS+ subscription gives me free games every month.
Talk about a really hard sell.
Re: Talking Point: Considering the Paid Online Service for the Nintendo Switch
@N1ntendodo While it is fair enough to wait for pricing, given the way they've overvalued everything else for this launch I don't see that changing when they are looking at SONY and Microsoft raking in $50-$60 dollars for a sub. The difference being, both of those services are proven and established and offer far more value at that price with free content and games. Not some pathetic trial period. And having undervalued online services for so long, I don't know if they are ready or able to handle a real online service as most gamers understand it. And what in the hell would I want with a service that requires I use my phone to interact and for voice chat (while killing two screen gaming and interface for their system).
None of it makes sense or screams 'added value'.