Topic: Should/Would Nintendo make Pictochat online?

[animecyberrat]

Just curious because the what three years I have had my DS I have used the service once and that was on a Grey Hound Bus. Seeing as how the Wii has online communication now wouldn't it be smart for Nintendo to take the DS chat online? Also would it be possible without a separate software release like a DS card that installs the option or could it be done via a Firmware upgrade?

I have been wondering this since the Wii came out and think if Nintendo is worried about child molesters and such they could require a friend code swap to go along with the online version. What are everyones thoughts on this? If there is already a thread for this I apologize I did a search before posting and found nothing so started a new thread.


Also isn't there supposed to be a web browser for DS, has that ever come out in America, cuz if it has and I missed it I would sure like to get it cuz it would be nice to have when I am at my sisters house.

[Chozo Ghost]

They probably won't, and the reason for that is the fear that pedophiles will use it to prey on young children. As it is, there was some newapaper who published a very ignorant article which said there was a danger with Pictochat being used by pedophiles as it is, even though you have to be within 30ft of someone anyway. The newspaper didn't didn't do their research, and they were wrong, but now imagine if Pictochat really was online capable. Then their fear-mongering would at least have some merit.

I suppose it is possible they will do it, though, but if they do you can be sure it will be loaded with filters and parental controls. I also don't think it is possible to update the firmware in the DS, so if they were to add that it would have to be in a cart or card which you would have to purchase separately. But that rumor of a new DS revision is exciting, and I'm wondering if we might not see it in that new model, if that rumor is true and if it ever actually materializes.

[UncleBob]

A better question is would Nintendo license a DS game that allows chatting online (either IRC-esque or IM-esque) that *doesn't* require friend codes?

I know they wouldn't make/publish it... but would they license it?

[Chozo Ghost]

A better question is would Nintendo license a DS game that allows chatting online (either IRC-esque or IM-esque) that *doesn't* require friend codes?

I know they wouldn't make/publish it... but would they license it?

Now that I think about it, I remember Clubhouse Games does let you chat with people online in between turns. But I think it does require friend codes....

Would they license it? I don't know... but I'm hoping they will still make something like that themselves. They still have to make a Mario Paint DS game, after all.

[ShyGuy]

Only place I found Pictochat useful was at PAX. Fantastic in a big conference while you were waiting for the speaker

[animecyberrat]

I was just thinking about it because i have never really gotten to use it and if it had been online, even if you had to swap friend codes, I could have been more useful.

If a new DS model come out and has online pictochat or some other chat function, I might get it. I was just thinking it sure would be a lot cheaper than sending text messages.


Now there is an idea, having the DS send text messages to cell phones. That would be even better. As long as it is free.

[vudu]

I'd prefer Ping Pals 2.

[animecyberrat]

The thing is none of my friends have a DS, they all got PSP's and Cell Phones. The guys on here that I would message, I got the Wii for that.

[Crimm]

I'd prefer Ping Pals 2.

Get out.

[Svevan]

should yes, would no