I believe part of the point is actually for Fortnite Festival even if the branding doesn't suggest this. From what I've gathered, the Wii guitars are often used by players via adapters to make them compatible with the new game.
Excellent read and fun retrospective. I’m glad we at least also got some great mobile titles in the same vein as the bonus levels. Still, I’m with you. Beautiful, painterly, 2D platformers are my favorite. Rayman does it so well. I would love to see more.
@JoakimZ, improved button layout would be nice. I don’t get why they created a weird third layout from the standard four in-line or at least a grid. This unit, however is how you make a mini arcade! I’m sold!
I'm actually a fan of the Ouya for a number of reasons. It fell short of what it should and could be and the Switch outperforms the console in every way including core concept. But back in the day, it was a really fun thing to throw in a bag with some excellent party games. And I still the looks are stellar. Too bad the same attention to engineering wasn't applied to the guts. I've been playing mine the last couple days.
What a fantastic write up, Damien. Great job. As a Nintendo fan and Catholic, this interests me. I hadn’t heard of it until now but plan on downloading the English version when it comes. It hurts to see some of the sweeping statements in the comments but I appreciate the article taking this seriously. For some additional insight and context, the 2018 synod focusing on and including youth just wrapped up and one of the things to come out of it was the idea that social media and new technology is not only the world youth live in but could be powerful ways to connect and evangelize. Though the recognition, backed by research, that it can isolate young people was also brought up. Still, there was a strong sense that it could be used in a way to provide tools for young people to navigate life more intentionally, make wise and informed decisions and grow as self-knowing and loving people. This game seems a product of those sentiments which have been around before the synod but expressed so clearly in it.
@canucksfan989 It would be very difficult — if not impossible — to sustain a living as a content creator without multiple revenue streams. Ad revenue is certainly not a lazy way to make money on the platform. It is a way. Perhaps some lazy people use it but a lot of hard-working YouTubers rely on it.
Please correct me if I’m wrong but this pretty much is an announcement of YouTube‘s new policies by Nintendo isn’t it? If Nintendo didn’t do this, YouTube‘s policies would’ve meant the same affected channels would have been ineligible for monetization. Neither YouTube or Nintendo would have received a cut of ad revenue. Say what you will about the Partner Program but I think Nintendo is smart to tighten up their definition to coincide with YouTube.
Full disclosure, I have an Ouya and four controllers. Three are early models and one is the latest. Connectivity dropouts and lag were fixed in later revisions. Really! Firmware was key. The early controllers are disappointing because of said issues, though. That aside, I have always thought the physical design looks are incredible on the little machine. I still think the controller design is one of the best looking — if not necessarily best feeling — controllers out there. It’s so unique and nifty that I honestly am interested in getting one of these. Now the question is is it worth the risk? This could be in probably is an utter garbage knock off.
It’s always been a pleasure reading Nintendo Life. I think I started around the time Thomas did. His writing was always enjoyable and fair and his contribution to this site will be missed by me (even if I didn’t add to that impressive number of comments all that much). All the best in your future endeavors, Thomas!
@oOFincHyOo I don't think it's THAT perfect a solution that it would make the Pro Controller obsolete; there is tech in the Pro Controller not found in other controllers. Some games would work great. Splatoon 2, not so much. I see this as a novelty or convenience.
Believe it or not, I played this first on the Ouya where it was also free and exceptionally good. At the time, I felt it warranted a cost but with these additions, I'd be more than willing to pay for it on the 3DS. I am still a fan of the system's 3D after all these years and that's a selling point for me for this game.
I love it! The language is amazing. For example, "The octopus has a sappy, lugubrious expression." you don't find that often in reviews these days. The author did a fantastic job describing the unit and I had to laugh at the features and misfeatures section so common today as pros and cons. Thanks for sharing, our humble scribe!
@BLP_Software I also appreciate the pace of game releases as I don't have tons of time to play. I already feel content with some quality purchases. Snake Pass has become my go to game for winding down in the evening while I play Zelda in spurts during streams which has given me the opportunity to retrace my own steps and record my journey through VODs. The other games I've played have all been worthwhile and fun. I'm happy!
I have a friend in the Netherlands who had a pre-order canceled and then eventually received this message as well. He ended up buying one from a scalper. I asked a store in the US if the product was still in production and they said as far as they knew it was.
I get that some people don't enjoy what this app offers. And probably many expected it to be more game like. However, I think it is an excellent little app. I don't use it daily anymore but I still try to collect new outfits and room decorations and frequently make use of Miifoto and messages.
As a matter of face, I do. Large launch lines up are overwhelming. Inevitably I don't get to all the games as new games get hype. I'd rather a trickle. This also relieves the issue of making a tough choice. For me it was Breath of the Wild and Bomberman at launch. Easy. Done. Now, too, maybe we will see decent early third party entries instead of half-baked ports or strange entries that are later used as an excuse for not developing for the system because those didn't sell.
Honestly, I already use Discord for game chat so using a mobile app seems smart and convenient. I like that it doesn't try to shoehorn a feature that I've already left behind in games and that it is clear: if I want voice chat, grab the phone. Easy!
All I can say is that this game stands on its own merits. Elements are heavily inspired by Zelda but I would not call this a generic rip off at all. It really is a great game and I actually do intend to get it again on the Switch.
Personally I find the cost acceptable for the game. It's short and sweet but that doesn't mean it should be free or cheap. I also appreciate that the game is not getting the usual update, money-grabbing nonsense that is so prevalent. It just makes me sad that I am in the minority.
It likely was dinged because of not actually playing. I agree that it is silly to try to "speedrun" a game like that and also, silly to stream it. Why would anyone tune in to watch someone AFK? Unless there was live and interesting content (heck, even a sleep cam, as awkward as that sounds), I see no reason to stream it. Twitch had every right to remove it though I'd hope it's just a slap on he wrist as I imagine the streamer had good intentions nonetheless and kudos for trying something different.
I was "gifted" it before Christmas but as it's sold out, I'm anticipating after Christmas. We won't pay scalpers and we won't deny a family getting one for Christmas so I'm just being patient. I think the stock shortage is disappointing but I haven't and doubt I will lose interest.
The whole concept of trying to help players discover the answer for themselves is something Nintendo does so well in their game design. How cool that they could make it a part of every aspect of their business.
It's nice to see comments like this. This industry would be better if statements such as these were frequently and genuinely made. We all benefit from the many pursuits and [hopefully friendly] competition of these video game companies. I am impressed, Microsoft.
I've had the pleasure of meeting this guy at a few retro video game conventions and he's very nice. It's a cool find and I wish him the best in the journey of unlocking this mystery!
I'm really excited by this. Do I need it? No. I've got original hardware and the Virtual Console on modern hardware. I even have the majority of these games! Why do I like it? Its simplicity, its ability to output to HDMI, its size and style, the amazing controllers that also work with my Wii and Wii U.... Seriously, I'll be picking this up and the controllers.
The novelty and the ability to take this to gatherings and special events makes me think this is going to get some pretty decent usage. Excellent list of games, too! And all of this for less than a new Wii U game.
Comments 262
Re: Review: CRKD NEO S Purple Wave Edition Switch Controller - Fine For Fortnite Festival, But Not So Rockin' Elsewhere
Such a weird controller and pretty pointless for me as I rarely play Fortnite. However ... I really want it!
Re: Yes, We're Getting A Brand New Guitar Hero Controller For Wii In 2025
I believe part of the point is actually for Fortnite Festival even if the branding doesn't suggest this. From what I've gathered, the Wii guitars are often used by players via adapters to make them compatible with the new game.
Re: Poll: What's Your Switch Controller Of Choice For Super Mario Bros. Wonder?
The NSO SNES controller works so, so well! It’s really worth giving it a go!
Re: Soapbox: Rayman Legends Blew My Mind Then Broke My Heart
Excellent read and fun retrospective. I’m glad we at least also got some great mobile titles in the same vein as the bonus levels. Still, I’m with you. Beautiful, painterly, 2D platformers are my favorite. Rayman does it so well. I would love to see more.
Re: Sega Just Announced A New Micro-Console, And It's Packed With 36 Arcade Gems
@JoakimZ, improved button layout would be nice. I don’t get why they created a weird third layout from the standard four in-line or at least a grid. This unit, however is how you make a mini arcade! I’m sold!
Re: So Long Ouya, We Hardly Knew Ye
I'm actually a fan of the Ouya for a number of reasons. It fell short of what it should and could be and the Switch outperforms the console in every way including core concept. But back in the day, it was a really fun thing to throw in a bag with some excellent party games. And I still the looks are stellar. Too bad the same attention to engineering wasn't applied to the guts. I've been playing mine the last couple days.
Re: Random: Collect Saints, Not Pocket Monsters In The Most God-Like Pokémon GO Clone Yet
What a fantastic write up, Damien. Great job. As a Nintendo fan and Catholic, this interests me. I hadn’t heard of it until now but plan on downloading the English version when it comes. It hurts to see some of the sweeping statements in the comments but I appreciate the article taking this seriously. For some additional insight and context, the 2018 synod focusing on and including youth just wrapped up and one of the things to come out of it was the idea that social media and new technology is not only the world youth live in but could be powerful ways to connect and evangelize. Though the recognition, backed by research, that it can isolate young people was also brought up. Still, there was a strong sense that it could be used in a way to provide tools for young people to navigate life more intentionally, make wise and informed decisions and grow as self-knowing and loving people. This game seems a product of those sentiments which have been around before the synod but expressed so clearly in it.
Re: Super Smash Bros. For Switch Is Coming This Year, And It's Got Inklings
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH! The way they revealed it was beyond hype. It was beautiful!
Re: Nintendo Changes Requirements For Its Controversial YouTube Creators Program
@canucksfan989 It would be very difficult — if not impossible — to sustain a living as a content creator without multiple revenue streams. Ad revenue is certainly not a lazy way to make money on the platform. It is a way. Perhaps some lazy people use it but a lot of hard-working YouTubers rely on it.
Re: Nintendo Changes Requirements For Its Controversial YouTube Creators Program
Please correct me if I’m wrong but this pretty much is an announcement of YouTube‘s new policies by Nintendo isn’t it? If Nintendo didn’t do this, YouTube‘s policies would’ve meant the same affected channels would have been ineligible for monetization. Neither YouTube or Nintendo would have received a cut of ad revenue. Say what you will about the Partner Program but I think Nintendo is smart to tighten up their definition to coincide with YouTube.
Re: Rumour: Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy Might Be Spinning Its Way Onto Switch
I am really hoping this is the case. My family wants it so much!
Re: Random: The Ouya Pad Lives On As A Knock-Off Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Full disclosure, I have an Ouya and four controllers. Three are early models and one is the latest. Connectivity dropouts and lag were fixed in later revisions. Really! Firmware was key. The early controllers are disappointing because of said issues, though. That aside, I have always thought the physical design looks are incredible on the little machine. I still think the controller design is one of the best looking — if not necessarily best feeling — controllers out there. It’s so unique and nifty that I honestly am interested in getting one of these. Now the question is is it worth the risk? This could be in probably is an utter garbage knock off.
Re: Site News: Thanks For Playing, Thomas Whitehead
It’s always been a pleasure reading Nintendo Life. I think I started around the time Thomas did. His writing was always enjoyable and fair and his contribution to this site will be missed by me (even if I didn’t add to that impressive number of comments all that much). All the best in your future endeavors, Thomas!
Re: Game Genie Controller Adapter Lets You Use Your PlayStation Or Xbox Pad On Your Switch
@oOFincHyOo I don't think it's THAT perfect a solution that it would make the Pro Controller obsolete; there is tech in the Pro Controller not found in other controllers. Some games would work great. Splatoon 2, not so much. I see this as a novelty or convenience.
Re: Maldita Castilla Renamed Cursed Castilla, Hits 3DS eShop Next Week
Believe it or not, I played this first on the Ouya where it was also free and exceptionally good. At the time, I felt it warranted a cost but with these additions, I'd be more than willing to pay for it on the 3DS. I am still a fan of the system's 3D after all these years and that's a selling point for me for this game.
Re: Minecraft's Cross-Platform Update Is Coming To Nintendo Switch This August
This and Realms coming to Switch has me really excited. I think I'll be setting up a Realms server come August.
Re: RiME Price Lowered for Switch eShop, With Soundtrack Incentive at Retail
What a wonderful solution!
Re: Check Out the HORI Real Arcade Pro V Fight Stick for Switch
I am definitely getting the game and would like the arcade stick but will have to save up.
Re: You Can Now Save Credit Card Information on the Switch eShop
This was my only complaint, really. This will be so much nicer! Awesome!
Re: Weirdness: 35-Year-Old Review Of Game & Watch Title Octopus Surfaces Online
I love it! The language is amazing. For example, "The octopus has a sappy, lugubrious expression." you don't find that often in reviews these days. The author did a fantastic job describing the unit and I had to laugh at the features and misfeatures section so common today as pros and cons. Thanks for sharing, our humble scribe!
Re: Nintendo Has Discontinued The NES Classic Edition in North America
This is wildly disappointing.
Re: Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap Has Gone Gold
YES! I'm so excited! Launch day purchase for me. Glad it's on the Switch.
Re: Talking Point: One Month of Nintendo Switch - Early Momentum Brings Optimism
@BLP_Software I also appreciate the pace of game releases as I don't have tons of time to play. I already feel content with some quality purchases. Snake Pass has become my go to game for winding down in the evening while I play Zelda in spurts during streams which has given me the opportunity to retrace my own steps and record my journey through VODs. The other games I've played have all been worthwhile and fun. I'm happy!
Re: Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap Will Hit The Nintendo Switch On 18th April
This is coming out much sooner than I anticipated which is awesome! This is one of the games I've been incredibly pumped for! Bring it on!
Re: New Nintendo Switch Game Project Mekuru Sneaks Under The Radar
All the games are rolling in now!
Re: Scandinavian Retailer Prompts Concerns Around NES Mini Production
I have a friend in the Netherlands who had a pre-order canceled and then eventually received this message as well. He ended up buying one from a scalper. I asked a store in the US if the product was still in production and they said as far as they knew it was.
Re: Miitomo Version 2.2.0 Can Now Be Downloaded
I get that some people don't enjoy what this app offers. And probably many expected it to be more game like. However, I think it is an excellent little app. I don't use it daily anymore but I still try to collect new outfits and room decorations and frequently make use of Miifoto and messages.
Re: Here's What the "R" in Super Bomberman R Means
Neat! I've had my copy preordered since they went live!
Re: Tatsumi Kimishima Responds to Criticism Over the Switch Launch Line-Up
As a matter of face, I do. Large launch lines up are overwhelming. Inevitably I don't get to all the games as new games get hype. I'd rather a trickle. This also relieves the issue of making a tough choice. For me it was Breath of the Wild and Bomberman at launch. Easy. Done. Now, too, maybe we will see decent early third party entries instead of half-baked ports or strange entries that are later used as an excuse for not developing for the system because those didn't sell.
Re: Kimishima on Making Splatoon 2 and Other Games for the Competitive Gaming Scene
Honestly, I already use Discord for game chat so using a mobile app seems smart and convenient. I like that it doesn't try to shoehorn a feature that I've already left behind in games and that it is clear: if I want voice chat, grab the phone. Easy!
Re: Zelda-Inspired RPG Oceanhorn Re-Confirmed for Switch
All I can say is that this game stands on its own merits. Elements are heavily inspired by Zelda but I would not call this a generic rip off at all. It really is a great game and I actually do intend to get it again on the Switch.
Re: Parent Trap: Nintendo Switch Parental Controls Beat Console Rivals To The Punch
This is an excellent tool to assist parents and I'm so glad to see Nintendo doing such a good job innovating and leading in this area.
Re: I Am Setsuna Confirmed as Launch Day Release on Nintendo Switch
Yes! My third launch day game!
Re: Miis Are Still Part Of Nintendo's Future, But They're No Longer Compulsory
I would like to stick with my current Mii as I really like it. I think they are a great addition to many games.
Re: Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap Confirmed For Nintendo Switch Release This Year
YES! Maybe this sounds odd but this is kinda my killer app. I preordered a Switch already but this is just more evidence that was a good decision.
Re: Retro-Bit Bringing Capcom-Themed Controllers And Jaleco Multi-Carts To Market This Year
I may pick up that Street Fighter II Genesis controller, too. Fun for fighting games!
Re: Retro-Bit Bringing Capcom-Themed Controllers And Jaleco Multi-Carts To Market This Year
I want that Mega Man SNES controller so badly!
Re: Weirdness: The Retro-Bit Mega Table is an Enormous $500 USB Controller
Not bad, but I wish their logo wasn't on it. That's the biggest flaw in my mind.
Re: Newzoo Estimates Less Than Five Percent of Users Have Paid For Super Mario Run
Personally I find the cost acceptable for the game. It's short and sweet but that doesn't mean it should be free or cheap. I also appreciate that the game is not getting the usual update, money-grabbing nonsense that is so prevalent. It just makes me sad that I am in the minority.
Re: New Features for 'Mario Kart 8 Switch' Appear in Box-Art
Awesome if true!
Re: Talking Point: Nintendo Will Rely on Switch Word of Mouth Due to Strange Presentation Timing
8 p.m. actually sounds quite nice for this West Coaster.
Re: Yooka-Laylee's Wii U Cancellation is Only Due to Technical Challenges, Not the System's Woes
Nintendo Switch for me. I can wait.
Re: Random: Baten Kaitos Speedrun Attempt Leads To Temporary Twitch Account Ban
It likely was dinged because of not actually playing. I agree that it is silly to try to "speedrun" a game like that and also, silly to stream it. Why would anyone tune in to watch someone AFK? Unless there was live and interesting content (heck, even a sleep cam, as awkward as that sounds), I see no reason to stream it. Twitch had every right to remove it though I'd hope it's just a slap on he wrist as I imagine the streamer had good intentions nonetheless and kudos for trying something different.
Re: NES Classic Mini Demand "Greater Than We Anticipated," Admits Reggie Fils-Aime
I was "gifted" it before Christmas but as it's sold out, I'm anticipating after Christmas. We won't pay scalpers and we won't deny a family getting one for Christmas so I'm just being patient. I think the stock shortage is disappointing but I haven't and doubt I will lose interest.
Re: Video: A Brief Interview with One of the Original Nintendo Power Line Counselors
The whole concept of trying to help players discover the answer for themselves is something Nintendo does so well in their game design. How cool that they could make it a part of every aspect of their business.
Re: Xbox Bosses Praise The "Bold Vision" Of Nintendo Switch
It's nice to see comments like this. This industry would be better if statements such as these were frequently and genuinely made. We all benefit from the many pursuits and [hopefully friendly] competition of these video game companies. I am impressed, Microsoft.
Re: Video: We Give the NES Classic Edition the Commercial It Deserves
Ha ha!
Re: Interview: Collector 'Metal Jesus' on His North American Nintendo 64DD Discovery
I've had the pleasure of meeting this guy at a few retro video game conventions and he's very nice. It's a cool find and I wish him the best in the journey of unlocking this mystery!
Re: Talking Point: Nintendo's NES Classic Edition is Just One Way to Revolutionise the Virtual Console
Right, A01?! Ha ha! That's what I was thinking. And here I thought a few candies and an orange were good in a stocking. Silly me.
Re: Nintendo Entertainment System: NES Classic Edition Coming This November, Ships With 30 Games
I'm really excited by this. Do I need it? No. I've got original hardware and the Virtual Console on modern hardware. I even have the majority of these games! Why do I like it? Its simplicity, its ability to output to HDMI, its size and style, the amazing controllers that also work with my Wii and Wii U.... Seriously, I'll be picking this up and the controllers.
The novelty and the ability to take this to gatherings and special events makes me think this is going to get some pretty decent usage. Excellent list of games, too! And all of this for less than a new Wii U game.