Some statistics I compiled for those interested. I pulled this data off Wikipedia's list of 3DS games and practiced my arithmetic to determine the ratio of unreleased games between the different regions: Japan, USA, EU, AU (Korea was not listed). I hope this makes sense...
For Retail games, we have a total of 212 Retail games listed for 3DS.
Of that 212 retail games, the number of Unreleased Retail games are:
Japan = 58 or 27% = 3 out of 4 retail games are released in Japan
America = 35 or 17% = 5 out of 6 retail games are released in America
Europe = 41 or 19% = 4 out of 5 retail games are released in Europe
Australia = 42 or 20% = 4 out of 5 retail games are released in Australia
********** Best Region to live in for Retail games: America!!! **********
For eShop, we have a total of 121 eShop games listed.
The number of Unreleased eShop games are:
Japan = 33 or 27% = 3 out of 4 eshop games are released in Japan
America = 54 or 45% = 1 out of 2 eshop games are released in America
Europe = 76 or 63% = 1 out of 3 eshop games are released in Europe
Australia = 76 or 63% = 1 out of 3 eshop games are released in Australia
********** Best Region to live in for eShop games: Japan!!! **********
For Demos, there have been 17 downloadable demos released.
The number of demos each region received (Australia wasn't listed) are:
Japan = 5 or 29% = 1 out of 3 demos are released in Japan
America = 12 or 71% = 2 out of 3 demos are released in America
Europe = 16 or 94% = 9 out of 10 demos are released in Europe
********** Best Region to live in for Demos: Europe!!! **********
Some information we can derive from those statistics:
America releases 3% more Retail games than Europe, but Europe releases 30% more Demos than America.
America releases 15% more Retail games that Japan, but Japan releases 31% more eShop games. So in a way, America and Japan balance out: America releases more Retail games, but Japan makes up for the lack of Retail games by releasing more eShop games.
For Overall game releases PLUS DEMOs, we have a total of 350 games listed.
The number of Released games are:
Japan = 247 or 71% = 5 out of 7 games are released in Japan
America =256 or 73% = 3 out of 4 games are released in America
Europe = 232 or 66% = 2 out of 3 games are released in Europe
~ Demos not counted:
Australia = 215 or 65% = 2 out of 3 games are released in Australia
********** Best Region to live in for 3DS Owners: America!!! **********
I'm glad NoK is addressing this issue and taking steps to solve the problems with game-access restrictions. I am so sick of region-locking - there has never been a need or consumer demand for it. Let people buy what they want to buy. If I want to buy a game in Japanese, then let me, I don't see what the issue is?
I have several games imported from Japan that are written in Japanese and I can play them easily. Japanese is a difficult language to learn, but I can understand the dialogue for the most part. Besides, some of the games don't need translating because the dialogue isn't necessary for gameplay, unlike RPGs which do need translating because you can only go so far in the game before you need to know what the dialogue is telling you to do or where to go or what character to get an item from, etc. But in this day with the Internet, you can easily find a guide online that will tell you what to do.
I'm so excited about this feature!! The Chat feature really sealed the deal when they demoed it at E3. What I'm looking forward to most about the chat feature is being able to video chat with my family who live on the other side of the country and they can finally meet my dog, even if its only digitally.
For those who say you don't see yourself using the Chat feature, I think you will. Once your MiiVerse and friend list expands you'll be able to video chat with people all over the world.
You'll be able to Chat with commenters from Nintendo Life — please wear clothing !!!
The only thing that bothered me with the Video Chat was the time-lag. The time-lag seemed to be 2-3 seconds, which may not seem like much, but having an hour long conversation it might be frustrating.
Ladies and Gentlemen, their physical quantity has been upgraded to 2,000 units!! They have a counter on their website and are currently at 1,459. That means 541 physical units are left to be purchased!!
I'll be getting mine from iTunes. Twilight Princess is my favorite Zelda game! Love it so much!!!
I personally don't give high value to critic reviews because they tend to be too clinical. Instead, when I read reviews, I focus in on the things the reviewer likes and didn't like. There's always room to make something better, but if a review doesn't mention things that can be improved, I'm a little skeptical, nothing's perfect.
In regards to NL, I haven't found you guys to be "bought out". You're reviews are well balanced. There was one thing NL did that made me step back and wonder. I can't remember it exactly, but I think NL had some kind of promotion or contest inside the 3DS eShop. For some reason, I remember being in the eShop and seeing a NL panel with three of your Mii faces or something, I can't remember. I thought that was odd and out of place.
But after NL's "enough with Mario" campaign back when NSMB:2 was being released, NL showed their independence from Nintendo and your true feelings, and you guys stood by your remarks throughout the comments and round tables, so I thought that gave NL integrity.
@Yee Agreed! When I get around to buying a Wii U (probably after the holidays for me), I'll only be getting two games at most. The Wii U and two games are gonna cost $500.
@Rerun "A lot of us are seeing this from a Western point of view. What if this is their best bet in terms of employment?" That's part of the problem and also part of the help. The workers do not come from a high-rise in downtown Shanghai who make 6-figure salaries. The Foxxconn labor force are poor villagers coming from illiterate families. In terms of where they're coming from, Foxxconn is their best bet for employment. That Leslie Chang video highlighted that. From a Western point of view, the working conditions look horrendous, however, most of the Foxxconn workers look at Foxxconn as a place for opportunity.
Also, another argument that Westerners are overlooking is that once labor wages get too high, Foxxconn will look to automate the assembly line and put thousands of people out of work, as they are currently doing. Those unemployed workers will have to return to their poor living conditions at home with no job. People still sourly bring up factory automation and it killing jobs in America. The same thing will happen in China.
What we're witnessing in China is an industrial revolution. And the Western media spins the Foxxconn labor force into being some aborigine tribe that we are discovering through a plexiglass wall like a zoo animal, who have no comprehension of what or why they're at Foxxconn and must be shepherded by Western civility. Yes, the working conditions need to be improved, but the cost will be jobs, and those Foxxconn workers who enjoy their jobs will struggle with unemployment.
@startropics3 Thanks for the reply. However, I don't think Nintendo is to blame for underage workers. I don't think Nintendo was pushing Foxxconn to hire underage employees. Basically, any company who contracts out to Foxxconn is setting themselves up for public humiliation. I was dismayed when I learned the 3DS was made at Foxxconn after I purchased one. But I don't like how the media says its "Western Demand" that is the driving force behind Foxxconn malpractice. No one is picketing an Apple store with signs demanding $100 off. There is a difference between "Supply and Demand" and "Pricing Demand". And I think when people say Western Demand, it gets twisted into: "selfish consumers ignore slave labor and demand free iphones." When its really: "greedy corporations maximizing their profits by any means necessary."
I watched that Leslie Chang video. And she discovered that actually the Foxxconn workers are not as unhappy as the media is guilt-tripping us into thinking. The Foxxconn workers look at their job as a stepping stone into higher employment. Their working conditions are no different than America's back in the 20's. That's why we have Unions and Worker Rights because companies were mistreating their employees. Also, Leslie Chang said that the workers migrate to the factories. They aren't forced militarily, they are forced economically. I've seen other videos where there's a crowd of people standing outside Foxxconn wanting to get hired.
I think what the Leslie Chang video highlighted most was the difference in culture. These working conditions at Foxxconn look horrendous to us, but that's only because we went through Unions and Worker Rights. For Foxxconn and China to change their ways, it has to come from the people, foreign corporations can only do so much (or so little). Foxxconn employs 1.2 million people. Only a handful are going on strike. The others, as mentioned by Leslie Chang, are using Foxxconn as an opportunity to grow and learn new skills.
I am all for transparency. I don't think there is enough transparency. But what we have here is 21st Century America clashing with 19th Century America. Its going to take time for change and the only way that will happen is through education, and unfortunately these poor villagers have to use Foxxconn as their means towards a better life. China will come around. It will just take Worker Rights and Civil Rights to get there.
I really don't think Nintendo should be taking heat for this situation. Nintendo wasn't forcing Foxxconn to hire minors to assemble Wii Us. Apple on the other hand, pushed Foxxconn to be more aggressive with their employees in order to meet Apple's demands and deadlines. Also, the Foxxconn suicides were related to Apple's manufacturing line, NOT Nintendo's. The explosion that killed 4 people and seriously injured 30-40 people at Foxxconn happened on the iPad manufacturing line. The reason Steve Jobs chose Tim Cook as his replacement was because Tim Cook is the man who connected Apple to Foxxconn.
Yes, products can be manufactured outside of Foxxconn, but CEOs and Shareholders are unwilling to lower their salaries to make up for the lost profit margin. Apple collects an 80% markup on iPods, and 40-50% markups on iPhones and iPads. Most products have a 3-5% markup from manufacturing to retail, with 5% being substantial. Whereas Apple averages a 50% markup, which is why they are the envy of businesses.
So I think it's disingenuous to guilt trip the consumer (and your readers) into whether or not our conscious will bear the burden of knowing how our products are made, when its the fatcats at the top of the food chain who are encouraging these working conditions to maximize THEIR profits. This is NOT about the consumer. This is about the 1% maintaining their profits. If the news had not reported the tragedies at Foxxconn, do you really think Apple would have said anything to Foxxconn?? The only reason these companies are saying anything is because Foxxconn's practices are being exposed. There's a reason camera crews and news agencies are not allowed inside Foxxconn, and it has nothing to do with "protecting intellectual property" as Apple has stated.
I'm tired of consumers being blamed for Foxxconn's manufacturing practices. Of course consumers want quality products at the lowest cost! Why would I want to pay $5,000 for a phone???? The problem is the CEOs and upper management being paid unsustainable salaries. Apple paid Tim Cook $378 million dollars to be the new CEO of Apple, but they can't pay Foxxconn employees more than $1 a day and they can't drop the price of an iPhone from $650.
So because my iPad arrives with blood stained on the back it's somehow my fault and not Apple's or Foxxconn's??
@AcesHigh I agree with your comment. The Wii U is different enough in gameplay from the Wii to be considered an evolution. And I remember Nintendo saying the DS and Gameboy were intended to be siblings in the Nintendo world. It seems a lot of people are underestimating the GamePad and what that will bring to how we play games.
I don't see Nintendo throwing Wii U overboard if it doesn't do well. That's why the new Mario 3D U and Zelda U aren't launch titles. If the Wii U has a slow start (which it doesn't with pre-orders sold out), then they will see a spike in sales when Mario U is released, just as they did with Mario 3D Land. Also, Nintendo has put too much time into developing Wii U; they've been working on it for the past three years! Having said all that, I do see Nintendo releasing an upgraded Wii U a year or two after its initial release, like the 3DS XL, I think they will release a more powerful version in the future.
"The fact that GamePad units are always tethered to an invisible source at expo demo booths and press events, probably for security reasons, does little to dispel concerns."
I played the Wii U at the Wii U Experience and the GamePad wasn't tethered. I didn't notice a delay, but I felt rushed to play through my turn and step aside, so I couldn't examine the details.
Yes, I read this as "Mega Man Is Over", but its actually read as "Crossover"
Yes, "this isn't a game, this is a McDonald's toy" LOL
However, I am ashamed to say I will be buying this. Mega Man is my favorite video game series, particularly the X series, and my desperation for anything new of Mega Man will bring me to support this. Now, I already own the Mega Man X for iPhone and they recreated the memorable sprites into brighter Flash graphics. And by the way, the game was successful on the iPhone (only because iPhone users wanted to play Mega Man and support the franchise). So with that said, seeing the graphics and gameplay for XOver isn't surprising or unsettling for me. If Capcom released another Mega Man game on iPhone, I expected it to follow suit with the same Flash graphics. I'm looking at these Flash graphics for iPhone, as being particular to mobile devices. Mega Man Battle Network, Mega Man Zero, Mega Man ZX, Mega Man Star Force all have different art styles. So for me personally, I feel this new series XOver falls into that A.X. group ("After X" series). This may not be the best looking game or have the best gameplay, but I'll be getting it. Thanks to everyone who posted their disappointment for Capcom's treatment of Mega Man, especially those who have never played Mega Man. It does feel like Capcom hates Mega Man and no longer want to continue the franchise.
I changed the controls around so I don't have to use the stylus or the stand because I am left-handed. I use ABXY to change my direction. It's not very fluid, but it's not an Achilles heel either. I would've preferred the controls to be more like Resident Evil Revelations though. I don't need the circle pad for RE. I found the controls in RE to be more intuitive than Kid Icarus's. I am thankful that Kid Icarus allows so much customization regarding the controls. It took me an hour to set up and test the controls before I started the story-line, but it was totally worth it. My customization makes portable playing easier.
I do think that Kid Icarus is more suited for the Wii's motion controls, so a port would be successful.
The PS3+Vita combination is the same thing as the GameCube+GBA combo without the wire. This is not Wii U! But I do foresee Sony making a Wii U knock-off.
Really Nintendo??? Ya couldn't integrate a second circle pad into the XL??? I don't see an XL in my future. I will wait for the 4DS because after the Wii U's GamePad is standardized, I think Nintendo will carry over the double thumbsticks/pads over the next gen DS.
To those saying a 3DS with two circle pads is stupid and unnecessary, I assume you will be boycotting the Wii U on those merits?
The Circle Pad Pro+3DS is just a sloppily designed Wii U GamePad with two screens. And the Z-triggers could be implemented into the back of the top screen or between the L/R buttons.
I had a white GBA that I loved the crap out of! I'm more interested in the white XL than the red and blue that were released stateside. However, I'm putting of the XL for the Wii U. Now if Nintendo released a Purple Majora's Mask XL or Luigi Green or Transparent, I'd definitely swing for the XL. But my Red 3DS still shines like the day it was born!
I don't have enough tissue to wipe away all my tears! Banjo-Kazooie is one of my favorite games of all time! I miss playing it so much! It breaks my heart to see how Microsoft has treated Banjo-Kazooie since acquiring Rare. I know Microsoft has released Banjo-Kazooie on Xbox's virtual console, but they could at least release on Nintendo's VC or (preferably) remaster it for 3DS.
Ah Helllllll No!! "Don't expect anything from us.. Keep your expectations in check" ?????!!!!! So expecting a video game giant to celebrate their pioneer franchise is expecting too much??? I am completely insulted! Mega Man is my favorite video game series. Even though, I honestly WASN'T expecting anything, for them to release a statement like this is disgusting and unprofessional! They were better off not releasing a statement. Basically, Capcom told us to F off.
@Ulala I totally agree that Nintendo should bring back older enemies because the new enemies feel generic to me too, like the ladybugs in 3DLand. Nintendo really needs to pull more content from Super Mario World because there were so many great enemies and characters that were kind of forgotten about
I played this at the Wii U Demonstration and I must say the graphics are beautiful!! The HD graphics really bring a new experience to Mario. The GamePad with the Boost Mode/Colored blocks seemed unnecessary in the video, but when you actually play the game its a whole other experience. There's more strategy and critical thinking involved for the GamePad user because you have to predict where to place the Boost Blocks appropriately so you can help the other player (or interfere). And the Mario player plays the game never expecting a Block to appear, while the GamePad user can't predict the Mario player's moves, so there's an added challenge that has a puzzle feel to fit.
After playing both NSMB:U and NSMB:2 at the Demo, I thoroughly enjoyed the Wii U game far more than the 3DS sequel. The Wii U game felt like they brought something "New" to Mario. And after playing Mario in HD, you'll wonder how you ever went without HD graphics!
Well Square-Enix said their goal is to bring Luminous to ALL displays, even smartphones! It's hard to distinguish Luminous graphics now because there aren't any Luminous TVs. But BluRay is nearing the end of it's life and Square-Enix is the only company to announce plans for a complete post-BluRay world. Unless you count Apple's Retina display, but that's only intended for Apple products. Square-Enix wants Luminous to be the new HD standard for everything: movies, 3D, games, tv, phones, etc. The reason BluRay took so long to standardize was because the BluRay TVs weren't affordable by the general public. Once 1080 TVs became affordable, BluRay went mainstream. So the same pattern will have to be followed with Luminous or whatever generation is next. The software is only as good as the hardware it's used on. So playing a video game or movie in 1080p on a 5680p display is gonna look like the Wii on a BluRay TV because the 1080p is stretched to fill the 5680p display, which is why the Wii looks crappy on a BluRay TV. The Wii is 480p and is stretched 225% to fill a 1080p display.
Actually, it wasn't about Nintendo finally catching up with PS3/Xbox360 graphics, it was about Nintendo catching up with MODERN DAY TELEVISIONS!!! It was painful playing Wii on a 1080p tv.
However the PS4's graphics will devour 1080p because it's supposedly going to run on Square-Enix's Luminous Engine, which will be followed by TVs displaying Luminous graphics, and the Wii U will look like the Wii does. But the era of Luminous won't be for another couple years, and by then, Nintendo will be developing the next gen console: the Wii X!!
I'm not concerned either way. The only thing I like about the game is the plaza. They had this game available at the Wii U Demonstration and I wasn't impressed. Mario Party comes with more mini-games.
One of my favorite franchises!! My favorite FF being the PlayStation era with 7, 8, and 9! FF8 is my favorite because it had T-Rex and I preferred 8's Magic/Summon system, plus Squall was my favorite protagonist.
I have FF 1 and 2 on my iPhone and FF3 on my DS, but I don't enjoy them as much as 7,8,9. I also LOVED Mystic Quest!!!! My SNES copy would crap out when I was on my way to the final boss!! So I never did finish it ;(
I'm still holding out for Versus 13!! Although, I think it's different enough from the 13 universe that it should have it's own number.
I still plan on buying Rhythm Thief for my 3DS because I prefer 3D gaming over 2D, so I won't be buying it for my iPhone. I'm not concerned about games being ported or reworked for Mobile. "Plants Vs Zombies" was ported to Nintendo. It's no different than porting a 3DS game over to PS Vita. This isn't a Mobile vs Nintendo debate at all; this is about expanding sales beyond one platform. If I made a game, I would release it on as many platforms as possible to reach the largest audience I could because that increases the chance for sales.
And I think LEGEND_MARIOD has the right attitude. He's a big fan of Layton and Rhythm Thief and would like to support and revisit the franchises on another platform that he has access to. If Mario or Zelda was ported over to iPhone I would absolutely buy it because I like the franchises and would want to support them. I bought all the Mega Man stuff for my iPhone even though I have them on Nintendo consoles/handhelds because I love Mega Man.
This isn't Mobile vs Nintendo. This is bringing a video game to an audience who uses another platform.
This was such an awesome game! I really enjoyed it! I did hear that Disney is looking to revive the Duck Tales franchise. The tv show was excellent! My favorite episode was the Druids episode in Scotland - so cool!! Hopefully Disney will take Duck Tales in the right direction. I still wish Epic Mickey would have followed thru with the steampunk imagery.
There's NOTHING wrong with liking titles/colors outside of your target demographic!!! Don't let other people bully you for liking things they don't like. We do not live in a world that is one-size fits all. Titles and colors are MARKETED towards certain gender demographics because the supplier feels it will sell more there. They are just trying to capitalize their profits. Buying something pink or playing a fashion game does not make a boy a girl. Life is short, enjoy what makes you happy!
What's the problem with remakes???? Remakes are different from porting to VC. The remakes are beautifully remastered! And you act like Nintendo is not working on new titles. You do realize Nintendo has more than five people working there, right? The new titles haven't been finished yet. There's several titles I would love to see remastered for 3DS! Banjo-Kazooie being at the top of my list, even though that is unlikely to happen ;;;>_<;;;
I enjoyed Sunshine a lot! I really liked the Island setting, the different areas, the water, and being in the sun. Playing Mario Sunshine actually made me feel like I was in the South Pacific. I remember how the brightness would grow as you collected Shine Sprites. Plus! We were introduced to Bowser Jr., who is one of my favorite characters!
My only gripes were the fact that you didn't "need" to collect Shine Sprites past the 7th Sprite and there was no incentive to go beyond the 7th Sprite. And those horrendous secret worlds! I couldn't stand those! That was my biggest dislike about the game. In fact, Mario 3DLand is just a collection of those Sunshine "retro" stages re-skinned with snow and bubbles. There's no personality in those levels, its just an empty puzzle stage.
I would like a sequel for the 3DS! Maybe Mario has to save the other islands surrounding Delphino from graffiti?
The problem I had with Luigi's Mansion GameCube was the controls were abominable! Also, I think if Luigi had a Princess to rescue in Dark Moon, people would find the game more endearing. So you rid the Mansions of ghosts and then what? Luigi goes into real estate? Why can't the story be: "Luigi and Daisy go on holiday when Daisy is kidnapped by King Boo and Luigi must rescue her"? I think Luigi and Daisy would make a good match (even if Daisy is Mario's throw-away).
I still would like to see Waluigi in an actual game! I think the anger towards Mario is stemmed from Nintendo having so many great background characters, like Luigi, Waluigi, Daisy, Toad, etc., but they're only used in the Party games and their characters are never developed beyond that. I guess Nintendo doesn't want to develop their characters with real background stories to keep out the drama.
Where's the cat-fight between Daisy and Peach over Mario?
Is Luigi just a farmhand among the Toads at Peach's Castle?
Is Luigi supposed to represent Lennie from "Of Mice and Men"?
So many unanswered questions...
Comments 186
Re: Nintendo Of Korea's eShop Will Offer Both Japanese And English Titles
Some statistics I compiled for those interested. I pulled this data off Wikipedia's list of 3DS games and practiced my arithmetic to determine the ratio of unreleased games between the different regions: Japan, USA, EU, AU (Korea was not listed). I hope this makes sense...
For Retail games, we have a total of 212 Retail games listed for 3DS.
Of that 212 retail games, the number of Unreleased Retail games are:
Japan = 58 or 27% = 3 out of 4 retail games are released in Japan
America = 35 or 17% = 5 out of 6 retail games are released in America
Europe = 41 or 19% = 4 out of 5 retail games are released in Europe
Australia = 42 or 20% = 4 out of 5 retail games are released in Australia
********** Best Region to live in for Retail games: America!!! **********
For eShop, we have a total of 121 eShop games listed.
The number of Unreleased eShop games are:
Japan = 33 or 27% = 3 out of 4 eshop games are released in Japan
America = 54 or 45% = 1 out of 2 eshop games are released in America
Europe = 76 or 63% = 1 out of 3 eshop games are released in Europe
Australia = 76 or 63% = 1 out of 3 eshop games are released in Australia
********** Best Region to live in for eShop games: Japan!!! **********
For Demos, there have been 17 downloadable demos released.
The number of demos each region received (Australia wasn't listed) are:
Japan = 5 or 29% = 1 out of 3 demos are released in Japan
America = 12 or 71% = 2 out of 3 demos are released in America
Europe = 16 or 94% = 9 out of 10 demos are released in Europe
********** Best Region to live in for Demos: Europe!!! **********
Some information we can derive from those statistics:
For Overall game releases PLUS DEMOs, we have a total of 350 games listed.
The number of Released games are:
Japan = 247 or 71% = 5 out of 7 games are released in Japan
America =256 or 73% = 3 out of 4 games are released in America
Europe = 232 or 66% = 2 out of 3 games are released in Europe
~ Demos not counted:
Australia = 215 or 65% = 2 out of 3 games are released in Australia
********** Best Region to live in for 3DS Owners: America!!! **********
Re: Nintendo Of Korea's eShop Will Offer Both Japanese And English Titles
I'm glad NoK is addressing this issue and taking steps to solve the problems with game-access restrictions. I am so sick of region-locking - there has never been a need or consumer demand for it. Let people buy what they want to buy. If I want to buy a game in Japanese, then let me, I don't see what the issue is?
I have several games imported from Japan that are written in Japanese and I can play them easily. Japanese is a difficult language to learn, but I can understand the dialogue for the most part. Besides, some of the games don't need translating because the dialogue isn't necessary for gameplay, unlike RPGs which do need translating because you can only go so far in the game before you need to know what the dialogue is telling you to do or where to go or what character to get an item from, etc. But in this day with the Internet, you can easily find a guide online that will tell you what to do.
Re: Review: Pokédex 3D Pro (3DS eShop)
How is this different from the existing Pokedex that was offered for free over the last year?
Re: Wii U Chat To Include Drawing on GamePad Screen
I'm so excited about this feature!! The Chat feature really sealed the deal when they demoed it at E3. What I'm looking forward to most about the chat feature is being able to video chat with my family who live on the other side of the country and they can finally meet my dog, even if its only digitally.
For those who say you don't see yourself using the Chat feature, I think you will. Once your MiiVerse and friend list expands you'll be able to video chat with people all over the world.
You'll be able to Chat with commenters from Nintendo Life — please wear clothing !!!
The only thing that bothered me with the Video Chat was the time-lag. The time-lag seemed to be 2-3 seconds, which may not seem like much, but having an hour long conversation it might be frustrating.
Re: Satoru Iwata Provides the Ultimate Wii U Unboxing
Aww he was so gentle with the unpacking. I claw and tear and use my teeth, much like a rabid raccoon.
Re: Zelda: Twilight Symphony Soundtrack Available For Pre-Order
Ladies and Gentlemen, their physical quantity has been upgraded to 2,000 units!! They have a counter on their website and are currently at 1,459. That means 541 physical units are left to be purchased!!
I'll be getting mine from iTunes. Twilight Princess is my favorite Zelda game! Love it so much!!!
Re: Talking Point: The Challenges When Writing About Games
I personally don't give high value to critic reviews because they tend to be too clinical. Instead, when I read reviews, I focus in on the things the reviewer likes and didn't like. There's always room to make something better, but if a review doesn't mention things that can be improved, I'm a little skeptical, nothing's perfect.
In regards to NL, I haven't found you guys to be "bought out". You're reviews are well balanced. There was one thing NL did that made me step back and wonder. I can't remember it exactly, but I think NL had some kind of promotion or contest inside the 3DS eShop. For some reason, I remember being in the eShop and seeing a NL panel with three of your Mii faces or something, I can't remember. I thought that was odd and out of place.
But after NL's "enough with Mario" campaign back when NSMB:2 was being released, NL showed their independence from Nintendo and your true feelings, and you guys stood by your remarks throughout the comments and round tables, so I thought that gave NL integrity.
Re: Pachter Pours Scorn Over Wii U Sales Projections
@Yee Agreed! When I get around to buying a Wii U (probably after the holidays for me), I'll only be getting two games at most. The Wii U and two games are gonna cost $500.
Re: No Voice Support For Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed On Wii U
NOOOOO!!! My Cyber Road Rage must be heard!!!!
Re: Review: Style Savvy: Trendsetters (3DS)
Excellent review!! I'm really looking forward to trying out the demo!!
Re: Talking Point: Affordable Consoles Come at a Cost
@Rerun "A lot of us are seeing this from a Western point of view. What if this is their best bet in terms of employment?" That's part of the problem and also part of the help. The workers do not come from a high-rise in downtown Shanghai who make 6-figure salaries. The Foxxconn labor force are poor villagers coming from illiterate families. In terms of where they're coming from, Foxxconn is their best bet for employment. That Leslie Chang video highlighted that. From a Western point of view, the working conditions look horrendous, however, most of the Foxxconn workers look at Foxxconn as a place for opportunity.
Also, another argument that Westerners are overlooking is that once labor wages get too high, Foxxconn will look to automate the assembly line and put thousands of people out of work, as they are currently doing. Those unemployed workers will have to return to their poor living conditions at home with no job. People still sourly bring up factory automation and it killing jobs in America. The same thing will happen in China.
What we're witnessing in China is an industrial revolution. And the Western media spins the Foxxconn labor force into being some aborigine tribe that we are discovering through a plexiglass wall like a zoo animal, who have no comprehension of what or why they're at Foxxconn and must be shepherded by Western civility. Yes, the working conditions need to be improved, but the cost will be jobs, and those Foxxconn workers who enjoy their jobs will struggle with unemployment.
Re: Talking Point: Affordable Consoles Come at a Cost
@startropics3 Thanks for the reply. However, I don't think Nintendo is to blame for underage workers. I don't think Nintendo was pushing Foxxconn to hire underage employees. Basically, any company who contracts out to Foxxconn is setting themselves up for public humiliation. I was dismayed when I learned the 3DS was made at Foxxconn after I purchased one. But I don't like how the media says its "Western Demand" that is the driving force behind Foxxconn malpractice. No one is picketing an Apple store with signs demanding $100 off. There is a difference between "Supply and Demand" and "Pricing Demand". And I think when people say Western Demand, it gets twisted into: "selfish consumers ignore slave labor and demand free iphones." When its really: "greedy corporations maximizing their profits by any means necessary."
I watched that Leslie Chang video. And she discovered that actually the Foxxconn workers are not as unhappy as the media is guilt-tripping us into thinking. The Foxxconn workers look at their job as a stepping stone into higher employment. Their working conditions are no different than America's back in the 20's. That's why we have Unions and Worker Rights because companies were mistreating their employees. Also, Leslie Chang said that the workers migrate to the factories. They aren't forced militarily, they are forced economically. I've seen other videos where there's a crowd of people standing outside Foxxconn wanting to get hired.
I think what the Leslie Chang video highlighted most was the difference in culture. These working conditions at Foxxconn look horrendous to us, but that's only because we went through Unions and Worker Rights. For Foxxconn and China to change their ways, it has to come from the people, foreign corporations can only do so much (or so little). Foxxconn employs 1.2 million people. Only a handful are going on strike. The others, as mentioned by Leslie Chang, are using Foxxconn as an opportunity to grow and learn new skills.
I am all for transparency. I don't think there is enough transparency. But what we have here is 21st Century America clashing with 19th Century America. Its going to take time for change and the only way that will happen is through education, and unfortunately these poor villagers have to use Foxxconn as their means towards a better life. China will come around. It will just take Worker Rights and Civil Rights to get there.
Re: Talking Point: Affordable Consoles Come at a Cost
I really don't think Nintendo should be taking heat for this situation. Nintendo wasn't forcing Foxxconn to hire minors to assemble Wii Us. Apple on the other hand, pushed Foxxconn to be more aggressive with their employees in order to meet Apple's demands and deadlines. Also, the Foxxconn suicides were related to Apple's manufacturing line, NOT Nintendo's. The explosion that killed 4 people and seriously injured 30-40 people at Foxxconn happened on the iPad manufacturing line. The reason Steve Jobs chose Tim Cook as his replacement was because Tim Cook is the man who connected Apple to Foxxconn.
Yes, products can be manufactured outside of Foxxconn, but CEOs and Shareholders are unwilling to lower their salaries to make up for the lost profit margin. Apple collects an 80% markup on iPods, and 40-50% markups on iPhones and iPads. Most products have a 3-5% markup from manufacturing to retail, with 5% being substantial. Whereas Apple averages a 50% markup, which is why they are the envy of businesses.
So I think it's disingenuous to guilt trip the consumer (and your readers) into whether or not our conscious will bear the burden of knowing how our products are made, when its the fatcats at the top of the food chain who are encouraging these working conditions to maximize THEIR profits. This is NOT about the consumer. This is about the 1% maintaining their profits. If the news had not reported the tragedies at Foxxconn, do you really think Apple would have said anything to Foxxconn?? The only reason these companies are saying anything is because Foxxconn's practices are being exposed. There's a reason camera crews and news agencies are not allowed inside Foxxconn, and it has nothing to do with "protecting intellectual property" as Apple has stated.
I'm tired of consumers being blamed for Foxxconn's manufacturing practices. Of course consumers want quality products at the lowest cost! Why would I want to pay $5,000 for a phone???? The problem is the CEOs and upper management being paid unsustainable salaries. Apple paid Tim Cook $378 million dollars to be the new CEO of Apple, but they can't pay Foxxconn employees more than $1 a day and they can't drop the price of an iPhone from $650.
So because my iPad arrives with blood stained on the back it's somehow my fault and not Apple's or Foxxconn's??
Re: Nintendo Responds To Foxconn's Admission Of Guilt In Child Labour Scandal
@Gamesake LOL
Re: MCV: Wii U Is A Stopgap System, Real Successor Is Still To Come
@AcesHigh I agree with your comment. The Wii U is different enough in gameplay from the Wii to be considered an evolution. And I remember Nintendo saying the DS and Gameboy were intended to be siblings in the Nintendo world. It seems a lot of people are underestimating the GamePad and what that will bring to how we play games.
Re: MCV: Wii U Is A Stopgap System, Real Successor Is Still To Come
I don't see Nintendo throwing Wii U overboard if it doesn't do well. That's why the new Mario 3D U and Zelda U aren't launch titles. If the Wii U has a slow start (which it doesn't with pre-orders sold out), then they will see a spike in sales when Mario U is released, just as they did with Mario 3D Land. Also, Nintendo has put too much time into developing Wii U; they've been working on it for the past three years! Having said all that, I do see Nintendo releasing an upgraded Wii U a year or two after its initial release, like the 3DS XL, I think they will release a more powerful version in the future.
Re: Ubisoft States That Wii U GamePad Latency is "Just 1/60 of a Second"
"The fact that GamePad units are always tethered to an invisible source at expo demo booths and press events, probably for security reasons, does little to dispel concerns."
I played the Wii U at the Wii U Experience and the GamePad wasn't tethered. I didn't notice a delay, but I felt rushed to play through my turn and step aside, so I couldn't examine the details.
Re: Retro Studios Gets a Bigger Office
"Google Maps shows that the information is correct."
Oh, you didn't use Apple Maps? Apple Maps says I live in a lake, kinda like AquaMan.
I have to swim to the surface to get the mail.
Re: Super Mario Gangnam Style Flash Mob's Got Some Moves
This was so fun!! Thanks for posting!
Re: Reggie: "Certainly Possible" Wii U Consoles Could Be Sold By Cable Providers
There aren't enough Wii U's to fill all the pre-orders, where will they find the stock to supply cable companies??
Re: New Super Mario Bros. U Confirmed as 1080p, Or Not
1080 or bust!
Re: Talking Point: Games That Need Wii U - Resident Evil 6
Another feature should be to change Chris's hair
Re: Feature: Reinventing Nintendo's Major Franchises on Wii U
Yes to all of this!
Re: The Truth Behind Donkey Kong Country's Opening Level Theme
So much love!!!!
Re: Mega Man Fans Troll Capcom Following iOS Social Game Announcement
I agree with so many of these comments!!
However, I am ashamed to say I will be buying this. Mega Man is my favorite video game series, particularly the X series, and my desperation for anything new of Mega Man will bring me to support this. Now, I already own the Mega Man X for iPhone and they recreated the memorable sprites into brighter Flash graphics. And by the way, the game was successful on the iPhone (only because iPhone users wanted to play Mega Man and support the franchise). So with that said, seeing the graphics and gameplay for XOver isn't surprising or unsettling for me. If Capcom released another Mega Man game on iPhone, I expected it to follow suit with the same Flash graphics. I'm looking at these Flash graphics for iPhone, as being particular to mobile devices. Mega Man Battle Network, Mega Man Zero, Mega Man ZX, Mega Man Star Force all have different art styles. So for me personally, I feel this new series XOver falls into that A.X. group ("After X" series). This may not be the best looking game or have the best gameplay, but I'll be getting it. Thanks to everyone who posted their disappointment for Capcom's treatment of Mega Man, especially those who have never played Mega Man. It does feel like Capcom hates Mega Man and no longer want to continue the franchise.
Re: PETA Targets Pokémon Black & White 2 in Latest Campaign
I can't wait to see PETA's campaign for ZombiU!
Re: Capcom Responds To The Lack Of Mega Man On 3DS
Please Capcom, shower us with your breadcrumbs!
Re: New Super Mario Bros. U Trailer Shows Off Co-Op, Controlled by Mario Masters
The graphics are just beautiful!! I'm excited for this game!!
Re: This Real Life Tanooki Suit is a Bit Strange
I have a Tanooki Hoodie from Hot Topic with SMB3 TanookiMario as the graphic on the front. The hoodie has tanooki ears and pockets, alas no tail.
Re: Rumour: Kid Icarus Planning a Wii U Uprising?
I changed the controls around so I don't have to use the stylus or the stand because I am left-handed. I use ABXY to change my direction. It's not very fluid, but it's not an Achilles heel either. I would've preferred the controls to be more like Resident Evil Revelations though. I don't need the circle pad for RE. I found the controls in RE to be more intuitive than Kid Icarus's. I am thankful that Kid Icarus allows so much customization regarding the controls. It took me an hour to set up and test the controls before I started the story-line, but it was totally worth it. My customization makes portable playing easier.
I do think that Kid Icarus is more suited for the Wii's motion controls, so a port would be successful.
Re: Sony: Wii U Offering "Something That Vita and PS3 can do Quite Easily"
The PS3+Vita combination is the same thing as the GameCube+GBA combo without the wire. This is not Wii U! But I do foresee Sony making a Wii U knock-off.
Re: Nintendo Unveils 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro
Really Nintendo??? Ya couldn't integrate a second circle pad into the XL??? I don't see an XL in my future. I will wait for the 4DS because after the Wii U's GamePad is standardized, I think Nintendo will carry over the double thumbsticks/pads over the next gen DS.
To those saying a 3DS with two circle pads is stupid and unnecessary, I assume you will be boycotting the Wii U on those merits?
The Circle Pad Pro+3DS is just a sloppily designed Wii U GamePad with two screens. And the Z-triggers could be implemented into the back of the top screen or between the L/R buttons.
Re: Why the White 3DS XL Didn't Ship to Europe or North America
I had a white GBA that I loved the crap out of! I'm more interested in the white XL than the red and blue that were released stateside. However, I'm putting of the XL for the Wii U. Now if Nintendo released a Purple Majora's Mask XL or Luigi Green or Transparent, I'd definitely swing for the XL. But my Red 3DS still shines like the day it was born!
Re: Ex-Rare Staffer: Exodus Wouldn't Have Happened Under Nintendo
I don't have enough tissue to wipe away all my tears! Banjo-Kazooie is one of my favorite games of all time! I miss playing it so much! It breaks my heart to see how Microsoft has treated Banjo-Kazooie since acquiring Rare. I know Microsoft has released Banjo-Kazooie on Xbox's virtual console, but they could at least release on Nintendo's VC or (preferably) remaster it for 3DS.
Re: Don't Expect A Game To Celebrate Mega Man's 25th Birthday
Ah Helllllll No!! "Don't expect anything from us.. Keep your expectations in check" ?????!!!!! So expecting a video game giant to celebrate their pioneer franchise is expecting too much??? I am completely insulted! Mega Man is my favorite video game series. Even though, I honestly WASN'T expecting anything, for them to release a statement like this is disgusting and unprofessional! They were better off not releasing a statement. Basically, Capcom told us to F off.
Re: New Super Mario Bros. Wii U Details And Screens Bounce Into View
@Ulala I totally agree that Nintendo should bring back older enemies because the new enemies feel generic to me too, like the ladybugs in 3DLand. Nintendo really needs to pull more content from Super Mario World because there were so many great enemies and characters that were kind of forgotten about
Re: New Super Mario Bros. Wii U Details And Screens Bounce Into View
I played this at the Wii U Demonstration and I must say the graphics are beautiful!! The HD graphics really bring a new experience to Mario. The GamePad with the Boost Mode/Colored blocks seemed unnecessary in the video, but when you actually play the game its a whole other experience. There's more strategy and critical thinking involved for the GamePad user because you have to predict where to place the Boost Blocks appropriately so you can help the other player (or interfere). And the Mario player plays the game never expecting a Block to appear, while the GamePad user can't predict the Mario player's moves, so there's an added challenge that has a puzzle feel to fit.
After playing both NSMB:U and NSMB:2 at the Demo, I thoroughly enjoyed the Wii U game far more than the 3DS sequel. The Wii U game felt like they brought something "New" to Mario. And after playing Mario in HD, you'll wonder how you ever went without HD graphics!
Re: Talking Point: Wii U and the Next Generation of Consoles
@Zombie_Barioth #49
Well Square-Enix said their goal is to bring Luminous to ALL displays, even smartphones! It's hard to distinguish Luminous graphics now because there aren't any Luminous TVs. But BluRay is nearing the end of it's life and Square-Enix is the only company to announce plans for a complete post-BluRay world. Unless you count Apple's Retina display, but that's only intended for Apple products. Square-Enix wants Luminous to be the new HD standard for everything: movies, 3D, games, tv, phones, etc. The reason BluRay took so long to standardize was because the BluRay TVs weren't affordable by the general public. Once 1080 TVs became affordable, BluRay went mainstream. So the same pattern will have to be followed with Luminous or whatever generation is next. The software is only as good as the hardware it's used on. So playing a video game or movie in 1080p on a 5680p display is gonna look like the Wii on a BluRay TV because the 1080p is stretched to fill the 5680p display, which is why the Wii looks crappy on a BluRay TV. The Wii is 480p and is stretched 225% to fill a 1080p display.
Re: Talking Point: Wii U and the Next Generation of Consoles
Actually, it wasn't about Nintendo finally catching up with PS3/Xbox360 graphics, it was about Nintendo catching up with MODERN DAY TELEVISIONS!!! It was painful playing Wii on a 1080p tv.
However the PS4's graphics will devour 1080p because it's supposedly going to run on Square-Enix's Luminous Engine, which will be followed by TVs displaying Luminous graphics, and the Wii U will look like the Wii does. But the era of Luminous won't be for another couple years, and by then, Nintendo will be developing the next gen console: the Wii X!!
Re: Rumour: Nintendo Land May Not be Bundled With Wii U
I'm not concerned either way. The only thing I like about the game is the plaza. They had this game available at the Wii U Demonstration and I wasn't impressed. Mario Party comes with more mini-games.
Re: Many Happy Returns, Final Fantasy - You're 25 This Year
One of my favorite franchises!! My favorite FF being the PlayStation era with 7, 8, and 9! FF8 is my favorite because it had T-Rex and I preferred 8's Magic/Summon system, plus Squall was my favorite protagonist.
I have FF 1 and 2 on my iPhone and FF3 on my DS, but I don't enjoy them as much as 7,8,9. I also LOVED Mystic Quest!!!! My SNES copy would crap out when I was on my way to the final boss!! So I never did finish it ;(
I'm still holding out for Versus 13!! Although, I think it's different enough from the 13 universe that it should have it's own number.
Re: Rhythm Thief Joins Layton in Jump to iOS
I still plan on buying Rhythm Thief for my 3DS because I prefer 3D gaming over 2D, so I won't be buying it for my iPhone. I'm not concerned about games being ported or reworked for Mobile. "Plants Vs Zombies" was ported to Nintendo. It's no different than porting a 3DS game over to PS Vita. This isn't a Mobile vs Nintendo debate at all; this is about expanding sales beyond one platform. If I made a game, I would release it on as many platforms as possible to reach the largest audience I could because that increases the chance for sales.
And I think LEGEND_MARIOD has the right attitude. He's a big fan of Layton and Rhythm Thief and would like to support and revisit the franchises on another platform that he has access to. If Mario or Zelda was ported over to iPhone I would absolutely buy it because I like the franchises and would want to support them. I bought all the Mega Man stuff for my iPhone even though I have them on Nintendo consoles/handhelds because I love Mega Man.
This isn't Mobile vs Nintendo. This is bringing a video game to an audience who uses another platform.
Re: Warren Spector Wants to Make a DuckTales Game
This was such an awesome game! I really enjoyed it! I did hear that Disney is looking to revive the Duck Tales franchise. The tv show was excellent! My favorite episode was the Druids episode in Scotland - so cool!! Hopefully Disney will take Duck Tales in the right direction. I still wish Epic Mickey would have followed thru with the steampunk imagery.
Re: Natsume Reveals Harvest Moon: A New Beginning 15th Anniversary Edition
I'm agree with @MrWalkieTalkie I kinda like the Yak more.. cuz it's hairy o__n__o
Re: Get In Touch With Your Feminine Side With The Pink 3DS XL
There's NOTHING wrong with liking titles/colors outside of your target demographic!!! Don't let other people bully you for liking things they don't like. We do not live in a world that is one-size fits all. Titles and colors are MARKETED towards certain gender demographics because the supplier feels it will sell more there. They are just trying to capitalize their profits. Buying something pink or playing a fashion game does not make a boy a girl. Life is short, enjoy what makes you happy!
Re: Rumour: Legend Of Zelda: Majora's Mask Coming To 3DS
What's the problem with remakes???? Remakes are different from porting to VC. The remakes are beautifully remastered! And you act like Nintendo is not working on new titles. You do realize Nintendo has more than five people working there, right? The new titles haven't been finished yet. There's several titles I would love to see remastered for 3DS! Banjo-Kazooie being at the top of my list, even though that is unlikely to happen ;;;>_<;;;
Re: Feature: In Defence of Super Mario Sunshine
I enjoyed Sunshine a lot! I really liked the Island setting, the different areas, the water, and being in the sun. Playing Mario Sunshine actually made me feel like I was in the South Pacific. I remember how the brightness would grow as you collected Shine Sprites. Plus! We were introduced to Bowser Jr., who is one of my favorite characters!
My only gripes were the fact that you didn't "need" to collect Shine Sprites past the 7th Sprite and there was no incentive to go beyond the 7th Sprite. And those horrendous secret worlds! I couldn't stand those! That was my biggest dislike about the game. In fact, Mario 3DLand is just a collection of those Sunshine "retro" stages re-skinned with snow and bubbles. There's no personality in those levels, its just an empty puzzle stage.
I would like a sequel for the 3DS! Maybe Mario has to save the other islands surrounding Delphino from graffiti?
Re: Bravely Default: Flying Fairy Japanese Box Art Revealed
I want! I want! Bring to America!!
Re: Talking Point: The Long Suffering Luigi
The problem I had with Luigi's Mansion GameCube was the controls were abominable! Also, I think if Luigi had a Princess to rescue in Dark Moon, people would find the game more endearing. So you rid the Mansions of ghosts and then what? Luigi goes into real estate? Why can't the story be: "Luigi and Daisy go on holiday when Daisy is kidnapped by King Boo and Luigi must rescue her"? I think Luigi and Daisy would make a good match (even if Daisy is Mario's throw-away).
I still would like to see Waluigi in an actual game! I think the anger towards Mario is stemmed from Nintendo having so many great background characters, like Luigi, Waluigi, Daisy, Toad, etc., but they're only used in the Party games and their characters are never developed beyond that. I guess Nintendo doesn't want to develop their characters with real background stories to keep out the drama.
Where's the cat-fight between Daisy and Peach over Mario?
Is Luigi just a farmhand among the Toads at Peach's Castle?
Is Luigi supposed to represent Lennie from "Of Mice and Men"?
So many unanswered questions...
Re: Who's New Super Mario Bros. 2's Mystery Celebrity?
Cher Lloyd!