Post by: Matt on January 31, 2003, 07:02:45 PM
For example, much of thier advertising does not occour on TV-slots and programs aimed at teens. Also, thier M-rated titles don't get enough publicity and advertisement, and as a result, a loot of teens think the GameCube is a kiddy console, espically compared to Microsoft's Xbox.
In fact, I know a lot of people who look down on the GameCube. These people were NES, SNES, Game Boy, and even N64 owners. But this generation, they've gone the way of Microsoft, fully supporting thier Xbox, but dissing the GCN.
Its odd, because it seems like Microsoft is making its Xbox look better by simply getting more informaton and advertising out to the public.
Post by: RickPowers on January 31, 2003, 07:32:00 PM
Fact is, people just want to fit in, and they'll spurn anything that isn't mainstream or seen as "cool" by their friends. It's pretty pathetic, but it's a major part of marketing strategy for not just the game industry, but just about every major brand as well. Clothing, drinks, food ... be the coolest, and you'll get the most sales.
That's really all there is to it. When people learn not to be swayed by peer pressure and marketing, they'll be much happier consumers. All that matters in game consoles is how fun the games are (and how many there are). Unfortunately, the games industry suffers a Catch-22 situation where if the Developers or Publishers fall for that same "kiddy" argument against a console, they won't release games for it. Less games, means less sales, and the cycle continues.
If anything, THAT is the reason Nintendo needs to work on it's image. Not because of the public stigma, but the one in the developer/publisher communities.
Post by: RABicle on January 31, 2003, 09:15:36 PM
But really It's Nintendo's fault that the public has this misconception of the system. All the other console have just as many colourful games as the Gamecube.
Post by: Grey Ninja on February 01, 2003, 12:38:25 AM
I don't know what they have to do differently, and I don't know what they should do to fight this, but it just isn't fair.
Post by: dogcow on February 01, 2003, 12:01:33 PM
Rick if you have any connection within NOA, please kindly inform them that "they suck".
Post by: alexzman on February 01, 2003, 12:20:18 PM
Post by: Matt on February 01, 2003, 01:00:32 PM
Post by: manunited4eva22 on February 01, 2003, 01:05:58 PM
Post by: Kuchakor on February 01, 2003, 01:20:15 PM
Post by: MikeHrusecky on February 01, 2003, 02:03:06 PM
This is not directly an issue of sales, and I'd rather this not turn into a sales thread. There is a bigger point trying to be made:
Xbox's Top 10 Games for December:
1. Splinter Cell 633,337
2. Ghost Recon 262,019
3. Halo 223,553
4. Mortal Kombat 179,147
5. Mech Assault 174,761
6. Bond: Nightfire 171,133
7. MOH: Frontline 146,216
8. Madden 2003 132,011
9. Unreal Champ. 103,556
10. Tony Hawk 4 103,843
total: 1,983,722 sales (average 198,372 each)
Judging by the titles... the Xbox is clearly focused on the older male audience, nose-on.
GameCube's Top 10 for Dec:
1. Metroid Prime 358,876
2. Mario Party 4 237,369
3. Mario Sunshine 177,409
4. Bond: Nightfire 148,438
5. SSBM 131,281
6. Animal Crossing 130,321
7. Harry Potter 133,019
8. Resident Evil: 0 111,334
9. Star Fox 98,899
10. Sonic Mega Col. 119,626
total: 1,646,572 sales (164,657 each average)
Looking at these titles, several demographics (audiences) are being represented. Clearly, Nintendo was correct and honest when they said they would make a platform for everybody.
Here's the question: Judging by the total and average sales, is Nintendo offering a platform for everybody hurting them by possibly making a platform that's not quite good enough for anybody? Think broadly about the market, not personal satisfaction.
Part 2: If you believe it's hurting Nintendo, should they change their strategy to focus on a specific market, and if so, which market? Again, think broadly about the market as if you were in charge of a business, not personal gameplay satisfaction as a fan. i.e. Don't say "mature" just because you're 18.
I think it's an interesting point. As far as the top 10 games go, this gives Xbox roughly a 20% sales lead for that month. Then again, there are more Xboxes out there than GameCubes (in the U.S.), so that can effect software sales. However, having fewer console sales ITSELF should account for something as well.
Making a platform for everybody may have resulted in creating a platform that's not good enough for anybody, broadly speaking, thus less than stellar sales overall. If someone is interested in mature titles, the GameCube is not a great choice. There are some great games out, but they are only a fraction of all games available, and not enough to feed that hunger on a regular basis. As great as Metroid Prime is, it's not going to hold someone over for X months until a MP killer comes along. This could hurt Nintendo in grabbing buyers.
Another issue I think is not being considered is Nintendo's overall business strategy. Nintendo makes a platform for themselves first. They have very specific ideals that go into the platform's creation. 3rd parties can join in if they want. If you are banging out grade A titles like a Metroid Prime or a Zelda or a Mario... there is bound to be tough competition for 3rd parties, resulting in fewer sales for them, while Nintendo's own sales remain satisfactory. Note that 6 of the 10 games are 1st and 2nd party games (and 4 of the top 5).
I'm throwing this one to the wolves. Chew on it as you will.
Post by: BlkPaladin on February 01, 2003, 03:09:38 PM
Some may come hearing that it has good games on it. Thinking that it will feed their urge for a certin genre and third party needs, and that it would be cool. I can't tell you how many threads I have went through were these whined about getting a gamecube because it didn't fit their needs as a gamer.
But not all is "lost" as some put it. Nintendo advertises in places were these "mature" potential customers reside. I just read today in thread on a different forum that Nintendo is running a Zelda ad in the recent Playboy.
Post by: Red on February 01, 2003, 03:22:08 PM
Post by: BlkPaladin on February 01, 2003, 03:30:44 PM
Post by: Perfect Cell on February 01, 2003, 03:53:17 PM
Post by: Odin on February 01, 2003, 03:59:13 PM
Post by: adamhap on February 01, 2003, 04:00:23 PM
DATEL AND INTEC INK STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
Insures Rapid Expansion of Action Replay Brand and Product Line
Clearwater, Florida, February 4, 2003 – Datel Electronics, LTD, the leader developer and publisher of game enhancement products for all gaming formats, and Intec, Inc., a leading manufacturer of video game accessories, announced today that they have formed a strategic sales and marketing partnership.
The agreement allows Intec, Inc. to include specialized Action Replay sampler disks that contain select cheat codes, game saves and other unique content in with their broad line of gaming peripherals and value added bundles. Additionally, Intec will have rights to distribute Datel’s Action Replay product line to a select number of retailers and distributors throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico.
“The decision to publish our own line of game enhancement products affords Datel the opportunity to form strategic partnerships that will most effectively establish brand identity and increase market penetration,” says Ken Tarolla, Datel Design’s Senior Vice President. “Intec shares our vision and commitment to provide the product breadth and innovation necessary to compliment the power of today’s videogame technology.”
Datel’s product line includes the much anticipated Action Replay for GameCube®, as well as a full line of Action Replay branded game enhancers and peripherals for PlayStation®2, X-box®, PSone® and GameBoy® Advance.
"We are extremely excited about this great opportunity to partner with a company that has been the dominant force in the technology of video game software enhancement as well as unique gaming peripherals,” states Kevin Resnick, Intec’s Sr. Vice President of Sales. “Our accessories reach tens of thousands of gamers and now we can offer them even more value and enjoyment by including the highly sought after content that Datel and Action Replay offers.”
The agreement goes into effect immediately and Intec plans to be shipping Action Replay products to its customer base in February.
Datel Design and Development, Inc., located in Clearwater, FL, is the North American sales, marketing and distribution arm for Datel Electronics, LTD, makers of Action Replay. Visit www.codejunkies.com for more in depth information about their products and to get the latest Action Replay codes and gaming news.
Headquartered in Miami, Florida, Intec, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of cross-platform video game accessories, offering an impressive assortment of controllers, game screens, sound systems, memory cards, racing wheels, cables and accessories for GameBoy® Advance, GameBoy® Advance SP, GameCube®, PlayStation®, PlayStation 2, and Xbox. Intec has the broadest line of gaming accessories with 59 patents (issued or pending) to enhance and maximize the gaming experience. For more information on Intec’s vast product line, visit www.inteclink.com.
Post by: Perfect Cell on February 01, 2003, 04:05:21 PM
Post by: Toolvana on February 01, 2003, 04:15:05 PM
After unvieling the Game Boy Advance SP, Nintendo has made some agressive sales goals for its flagship handheld unit. Here's a few snippets from the Reuters story:
Nintendo aims to sell two million of its new GameBoy Advance SPs, which feature rechargeable batteries and a brightly lit screen, in the first six weeks after their February 14 launch, Nintendo President Satoru Iwata told a news conference.
It plan to sell 20 million GameBoy Advance machines globally in the next business year, up from its target of 15 million this year.
For the rest of the story, as well as a look at a possible serious contender to Nintendo's handheld dominance, click here.
Post by: Perfect Cell on February 01, 2003, 04:16:39 PM
Nintendo of America recently published a list of games for 2003 which included a few surprises—one of the bigger ones being Wario Ware, Inc.: Mega Microgame$ for Game Boy Advance. Left undisclosed for three weeks, Nintendo has finally posted the beginnings of its Japanese web page for this unexpected Game Boy Player launch title, known as Made in Wario overseas.
Currently the site sports a movie of the intro sequence and little else, and since the footage doesn’t really touch on the gameplay itself, we thought we’d share what little we’ve uncovered about the title. Wario Ware is a collection of simple, ultra-quick, quirky and VERY Japanese mini-games for the GBA—the sorts of games you might find on, say, a cell phone. Wario’s zany attitude will no doubt contribute to the package, but it isn’t really a Wario game. Exactly what mini-games the cart will contain is still a mystery.
Wario Ware comes out in North America right alongside the Game Boy Player on May 26th.
Post by: nolimit19 on February 01, 2003, 04:33:10 PM
Post by: Matt on February 01, 2003, 04:38:13 PM
Nintendo GameCube -- the Player's Choice!
Special Retail Offers: Free Hit Game With Purchase of a Nintendo GameCube;
Nintendo GameCube Software Favorites See New Lower Price
REDMOND, Wash.--Feb. 6, 2003--Beginning February 9, some of the best video games of the current Nintendo generation will be more affordable than ever.
With the purchase of a Nintendo GameCube(TM) system, at a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $149.95, Nintendo of America Inc. is offering consumers their choice of one of the following hit games for free -- Metroid(R) Prime (2002 Game of the Year*), Star Fox(R) Adventures, Mario Party(R) 4 or Capcom's Resident Evil(R) 0 -- at participating retailers.
In addition, the Super Mario(TM) Sunshine Bundle Pak, which includes a copy of the Super Mario(TM) Sunshine game, Nintendo GameCube system and Memory Card 59, which was previously $189.95, will be priced at $159.95.
Finally, continuing its prestigious "Player's Choice" program, the MSRP for Luigi's Mansion(TM), Pikmin(TM), Super Smash Bros.(R) Melee, and other classic Nintendo GameCube titles, originally priced at $49.95, will drop to $29.95.
"These three offers are about giving players what they want -- great entertainment at a great value," says George Harrison, senior vice president, marketing and corporate communications, Nintendo of America Inc. "For less than $150, players will find a world of quality only available with Nintendo."
Post by: Perfect Cell on February 01, 2003, 04:51:26 PM
Quote
Originally posted by: Matt
But seriously, Nintendo must do more to break the kiddy image to the casual gamer.
Of course, weve established that already
The question is What will nintendo do to break the kiddy image and when will they do it.Post by: Matt on February 01, 2003, 04:56:45 PM
They also should try spending more money, buy exclusives and franchises and such like Microsoft has.
And, advertising. They need to advertise more. Today, I've seen no GCN commercials on TV, but three for the Xbox... Nintendo needs to OUTPERFORM Microsoft with advertising.
Post by: dogcow on February 01, 2003, 04:58:30 PM
The problem is not in NCL, the problem is with NOA ..
Post by: Matt on February 01, 2003, 04:59:38 PM
Post by: dogcow on February 01, 2003, 05:03:03 PM
VIVENDI GIVES GAME BOY® ADVANCE DEBUT TO MARTIAL ARTS LEGEND, BRUCE LEE
"Bruce Lee: Return of the Legend" hits GBA in March 2003
Vivendi Universal Games has confirmed a March release for its highly anticipated "Bruce Lee: Return of the Legend" title for Nintendo's Game Boy® Advance handheld.
Developed by Vicarious Visions, "Bruce Lee: Return of the Legend" marks the first time Bruce Lee fans have been able to play as a character based on the world-renowned martial arts legend on a handheld system. Combining elements of stealth and platform elements alongside classic Bruce Lee fighting action and trademark moves, the game delivers both a dramatic movie-like story line and fast-paced action.
Vicarious Visions, critically acclaimed for their work on the GameBoy Advance conversions of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater and Crash Bandicoot® has developed a fast-paced 2D action-adventure boasting compelling mission-based levels. Controlling Bruce Lee, who in turn plays the of a skilled martial artist called Hai Feng, players must guide the young student through wave after wave of adversaries as he attempts to find the assassin responsible for killing his master.
As the game progresses, players must perfect a variety of martial arts moves - including the jaw-dropping fists of fury - and become an expert in the use of knockout darts, the bo staff and nunchakus. Hai Feng's quest sends players across the globe to international locations of mystery and intrigue and is set to become a landmark fighting title for the handheld format.
"'Bruce Lee: Return of the Legend' continues the Universal Interactive tradition of strong character based franchises and quality handheld game experiences," said Nicholas Longano, general manager of Universal Interactive. "Universal Interactive's goal is to create an authentic and compelling Bruce Lee game that extends the Bruce Lee legacy."
Post by: Perfect Cell on February 01, 2003, 05:05:43 PM
Empire Interactive signs game rights for Bad Boys II
Empire Interactive plc, a leading AIM listed computer games developer and publisher, announces that it has signed the global publishing rights to Sony Pictures' summer blockbuster film, Bad BoysTMII, through a license from Sony Pictures Consumer Products.
Will Smith and Martin Lawrence are back on the streets of Miami in Bad BoysTMII, reuniting them with producer Jerry Brukheimer and director Michael Bay for a Summer 2003 release.
The film has already received major promotion in the US through TV advertising. The multi-million dollar marketing support has already kicked off with an action packed teaser spot during this year's Superbowl® - which is one of the most important advertising events in the US.
Empire Interactive has signed the rights to the Bad Boys and Bad Boys II franchise to produce multiple titles across all leading console and PC platforms including successor console platforms. The first game title for PlayStation® 2, Microsoft® XboxTM, Nintendo® GameCubeTM and PC is being developed to coincide with this Christmas' DVD launch.
Ian Higgins, CEO of Empire Interactive said about the signing: "It is very exciting for the Group to have signed such a significant property. The movie is one of the biggest to come out of Hollywood this year and crosses over perfectly with our core gamer demographic. Empire is looking forward to making this a hit franchise for a number of years to come."
"Bad BoysTMII has a high octane story-line which really hits its target demographic of young men on all cylinders," stated Mark Caplan, Executive Director Licensing, Sony Pictures Consumer Products. "Early indications are that Empire is well on its way to developing a video game that hits the same core demographic and has as much attitude and intensity as the film."
Post by: nolimit19 on February 01, 2003, 05:29:12 PM
Post by: Kai on February 01, 2003, 05:33:21 PM
Nintendo have a image problem in Australia. Adults are buying the console, kids are buying the console, but teens, I don't know if they are making as many sales in that age group as they could be.
It's funny I think of Nintendo being really cool. Their system is smart and robust and well-designed. Their games are innovative and fun.
Post by: dogcow on February 01, 2003, 05:45:41 PM
SEGA TO RELEASE SEGA RALLY FOR GAME BOY ADVANCE
SAN FRANCISCO - (February 7, 2003) - SEGA(R) of America, Inc. today announced plans to release "SEGA RALLY(TM)" for the Game Boy(R) Advance in March 2003.
"SEGA RALLY" features six all-new courses loaded with heart-stopping Rally race excitement challenging gamers to race around the globe in an all-out blitz for the Championship Cup. Whether it's negotiating snow-covered mountains or tearing through the serpentine country backroads, "SEGA RALLY" delivers the same authentic Rally race experience on the Game Boy Advance that it pioneered in the arcades.
Before starting a quest for the cup, players will choose from 8 fully-licensed cars from the top manufacturers in Rally racing, including Subaru, Ford, Toyota, Lancia, Peugeot, and Mitsubishi. As the competition heats up, gamers score points to purchase multiple mini-games, new courses, unlock cars, and open a SEGA Rally History and Art Gallery.
"SEGA RALLY" also features an all-new 4 Player mode, which lets gamers go head-to-head-to-head-to-head in a cut throat race to the finish.
"Fasten your seatbelts and take your Dramamine because 'SEGA RALLY' is one helluva ride through some thrilling rocky roads - from rain soaked jungles to labyrinthine mountain trails," said Mike Fischer, vice president, SEGA of America, Inc. "Now gamers can race around the world at top speeds, even while stuck in the subway on the way to work with 'SEGA RALLY.'"
Post by: ThePerm on February 01, 2003, 07:03:42 PM
Post by: deminisma on February 01, 2003, 07:32:59 PM
I also think the need to start spending some REAL money. $6 billion in cash. $6 billion. Spend at least some, guys, remember, it takes money to make money. It's all about the culture of arrogance that seems to exist at Nintendo. It's like someone forgot to tell they weren't dominating the market with 95% like in the NES days. Sega learned the hard way about a culture of arrogance and it cost them badly. Not putting DVD in Gamecube was a f**k up. I don't want to hear about how it is "just a games system". Everyone I know who owns a PS2 has games for it as well as using it as a DVD player. Sega KNEW they were making a huge mistake not putting DVD capability in Dreamcast, they wanted to, it just would have cost them too much. Whereas Nintendo had the money but didn't. I predict in 5 years time we'll look back on that as the Gamecube's downfall. This was a confused muddled rant but I think I have some pretty valid points. Reading Sega's history made me realise that Nintendo is making those mistakes now. If you've got a lot of time to burn: http://www.atani-software.net/segabase/
Post by: Meta-Knight on February 01, 2003, 07:40:29 PM
Post by: Matt on February 01, 2003, 08:03:47 PM
Post by: Perfect Cell on February 01, 2003, 08:07:37 PM
Post by: Matt on February 01, 2003, 08:47:35 PM
Post by: DarkDraco2K2 on February 01, 2003, 10:46:44 PM
Post by: Hemmorrhoid on February 02, 2003, 02:35:35 AM
With a wealth of mature blockbusters coming to GCN in the future, or titles that have appeal to everyone they are slowly going to win gamers over.
I dont think people want to miss out on Virtua Fighter RPG, PN03, Killer 7 and many more.
Nintendo has to win the gamers back just like they lost them in the N64 days.
Its not impossible.
Post by: Clonester on February 02, 2003, 09:03:07 AM
Post by: Justin Nation on February 02, 2003, 09:18:12 AM
Post by: Perfect Cell on February 02, 2003, 09:24:35 AM
Post by: Matt on February 02, 2003, 09:35:22 AM
Nintendo did make a mistake with not including DVD playback in the GameCube, but that is something that could of been rectified by pushing the GameCube.
Post by: alexzman on February 02, 2003, 01:42:20 PM
Post by: Nintendo on February 02, 2003, 01:49:11 PM
-David Gosen, Managing Director of Nintendo of Europe
Post by: alexzman on February 02, 2003, 01:53:07 PM
I've heard that same thing said by a top guy at XBox. Saying "we want your grandma to be able to play", and they obviously haven't had much luck with that. The fact is talk is cheap, it seems only the PS2 has been able to even partly deliver to a large main stream audience.
Post by: thecubedcanuck on February 02, 2003, 01:56:34 PM
Nintendo needs a violent game, as sad as that it, that will get it noticed. They also need to market the living poop out of it with very strong commercials. Commercials that will leave people going "wow, cool, I need to have that game". I have never see a nintendo commercial that did this to me.
Post by: ShanD on February 02, 2003, 01:59:32 PM
Quote
Originally posted by: alexzman
But that hasn't been held to true.
I've heard that same thing said by a top guy at XBox. Saying "we want your grandma to be able to play", and they obviously haven't had much luck with that. The fact is talk is cheap, it seems only the PS2 has been able to even partly deliver to a large main stream audience.
Yeah, I was flipping through channels, and there was some xbox dude selling xboxes on QVC, and he kept talking about how Amped, the pack-in game has "the most realistic graphics" and how many "bits" the Xbox has, and how this is "the" holiday gift. The persons ignorance bothered me. Bits don't matter. There are much better graphics than Amped on ANY console. And "the" holiday gift is what "the" kid wants. The guy even gave that QVC girl the controller, and they didn't show the screen at all while she was holding the controller.
--DISCLAIMER-- I have nothing vs the Xbox, its just that the guys ignorance/arrogence annoyed me to no end.
Post by: Ace on February 02, 2003, 02:16:35 PM
Quote
Originally posted by: thecubedcanuck
The big problem is not the lack of mature games, there are a some good ones and more coming. The problem is other than nintendo loyalists, nobody knows about them.
Nintendo needs a violent game, as sad as that it, that will get it noticed. They also need to market the living poop out of it with very strong commercials. Commercials that will leave people going "wow, cool, I need to have that game". I have never see a nintendo commercial that did this to me.
I agree that nintendo needs a violent game. How about getting the driver games exclusive and getting a kick @ss advertising campaign going for it?
Post by: thecubedcanuck on February 02, 2003, 02:45:17 PM
Quote
How about getting the driver games exclusive and getting a kick @ss advertising campaign
I am not overly familiar with the driver series. I was thinking more along the lines of something new. Something GTA meets Bond meets TS2 meets Mafia.
I really dont know, but it has to ultra violent, ultra cool, and pushed as the greatest thing since sliced bread. Even then it will need a great follow up and then another to prove that the Cube means business.
Post by: Perfect Cell on February 02, 2003, 04:03:26 PM
2.Nintendo could also make their own Violent Big Budget game. Sony did this with "The Getaway" wich hasnt gotten stellar reviews, but its gotten alot of press, and alot of comecrials on TV. Maybe make Too Human from SK the new "big franchise" they need to market it well enough.
Post by: Clonester on February 02, 2003, 05:13:03 PM
I have no gripes about the Gamecube in any way. Others do, which is their loss, because I believe that the console is near perfect. When the Gameboy Advance player comes out, I can have great classics on my TV again like DKC (Hopefully they port the 3rd one also), SMW, Yoshi's Island, Mario Kart, and LOZ:LTTP! That is absolutely awesome IMO!!! I dislike SNES ports for the Gameboy Advance itself, but playing these games on TV will make it feel like the SNES days again, the peak of gaming IMO, and my most favourite console, ahead of the Gamecube. I can only pray that they port Chrono Trigger, my most favourite game ever, and possibly the best game ever. Period.
Gamecube+Snes+GBA=Console Perfection
Post by: Matt on February 02, 2003, 06:48:32 PM
They need to change it around. They need to learn that the SNES days are gone, and they aren't going to have such an easy time.
Post by: JSR on February 02, 2003, 07:08:52 PM
Quote
Originally posted by: Matt
Nintendo's image, however, isn't appealing to everyone.
They need to change it around. They need to learn that the SNES days are gone, and they aren't going to have such an easy time.
I completely agree Matt. If Nintendo plans on staying in the console business they need to start shaping up. Nintendo still feels that the public will love the GameCube because of the Nintendo name. That isn’t the case. Nintendo’s name isn’t worth as much as it was and it isn’t going to be back to what it was unless Nintendo takes some action. To the casual gamer Nintendo means “Kiddy”. As sad as that is, it’s the truth. ED and RE aren’t enough; Nintendo has to push those games! Hopefully Nintendo will be able to learn their mistakes and make Nintendo a household name again.
Post by: dogcow on February 02, 2003, 08:07:53 PM
Nintendo is selling Gamecube with Games, and they are working on it. apparently people will forget whatever Nintendo did in the last year or so. Leasing out their franchise to Sega, Namco is a great start, they get great support fom Capcom. And still no one remembers that. it's like people will forget whatever Nintendo did right, and remembers that Nintendo sold Rare (though I wouldn't see that as a big lose at all, because all they made are essentially Mario clones anyway).
2003 should be the year where the result of Triforce and Capcom support become reality.
Post by: Lao-tzu on February 02, 2003, 08:29:01 PM
Nintendo doesn't have an image problem.
Let's look at this from their perspective, not ours.
Nintendo owns the hand held market. Period. There's no competition. Everyhand held unit or game sold, Nintendo makes money.
They own the kid market. Period. Parents who know nothing about their kids games or wants get the Gamecube because it's purple.
And, like movies, this is a huge market that's getting bigger every day. And nintendo owns it. The other systems, what can the kids get? Sports games- the games every system has.
Now lets look at the NESers. They want to old franchises. They love that there's a new Metroid game. They'll buy Yoshi's Island: Cubed. Nintendo owns this market.
And which concol is a user-friendly looking system. Everything is is clear english. The quality control is better then the other systems. People who want to casualy buy a game are better off with a GameCube then an X-Box.
Hmm.. Nintendo is doing pretty well..
So let's look at what catagory most of us fit into.
Teens.
Is teens a huge market? It's pretty big. But it's only one market. And it's expensive too. You have to keep up with the trends.
Plus, every teen has a PC. They spread their market over at least two systems.
And so, yes. I know why you complain. You're a minority. You're the teens or college kids who went for Nintendo without them trying for your buisness.
And you say, 'I like Nintendo, why don't others?' That's fair enough.
But then you make up reasons. The teen market is valuable. They need to do this or they'll go under.
But that's just not true. Nintendo is doing fine, with or without you. They don't need to take away buisness from x-Box to stay in buisness.
Post by: RickPowers on February 02, 2003, 08:32:54 PM
Post by: Lao-tzu on February 02, 2003, 08:37:47 PM
Except "surprizingly" that was very nice.
....
Now when do I become a staffwriter?
Post by: BlkPaladin on February 02, 2003, 08:48:57 PM
As for Zelda they are advertising it, they did that movie theater blitz in November/Dec (They should do it again right before launch but that is my opinion.) They have to kiosks out. They even have ads in Playboy. And remember a good portion of the videogame market has a real short attention span so it would be a little bit of a waste to go all out just yet. (Oh, they also have POP in Video game stores.)
Post by: Perfect Cell on February 03, 2003, 07:22:58 AM
Post by: BlkPaladin on February 03, 2003, 07:37:20 AM
Post by: DItaliaO on February 03, 2003, 08:25:30 AM
Post by: Ian Sane on February 03, 2003, 11:50:22 AM
This a very interesting point and surprisingly no one has responded to it.
I don't the problem is that the Gamecube is targetted towards everybody. The PS2 is a huge success because it has something for everybody so that's not a bad strategy for Nintendo to emulate. I think the problem is that the Gamecube is for everybody but it's not marketed as such.
The Xbox is without a doubt aimed towards teens and young adults. It's games are mostly targetted to that demographic and its ads are targetted to that demographic. The Xbox IS a console for the "mature gamer". It doesn' t really have anything that's appealing to anyone else.
The PS2 is marketted towards everybody. It has mature games but it doesn't promote itself as a console only for adults. It has kids games but it doesn't just focus on them either. Though it appears to target teens it really has very neutral marketing. Whenever you see a generic PS2 commerical (ie: not for a specific game) the console doesn't focus on any one genre or demographic of games. The PS2 is shown as an electronic device like a PC or television that ALL people can enjoy. It's an entertainment machine and that's what it is advertised as. It is as "cool" or trendy as any electronic device.
The Gamecube's marketing is all over the place which is likely why people are unsure of it. Sometimes it's promoted as a toy and sometimes it's promoted as hip and cool. Like the PS2 the Gamecube has games for everyone and therefore should be marketed in a similar way. Instead the marketing is all over the place. An advertisement for something like Mario has a very "this game is a for chidren" feel to it with people dressed in goofy costumes like you would see on Barney. Is the game only for children? No, but to the average consumer it sure looks that way. Something like Metroid on the other hand is promoted as being hip and cool and for older gamers. So you've got two extremes and therefore consumers are confused. Who is the Gamecube targetted towards?
Now you're probably thinking "well the PS2 markets its games the same way with adult games targetted at adults, etc". Well that's not exactly true. A lot PS2 game ads still have a very neutral feel to them. Many of them show a lot of in game footage while Gamecube ads show very little. Why does this make a difference? By showing just the game the consumer can see firsthand whether or not that game is for them. Something like Jak & Daxter was obviously targetted more towards younger gamers but it didn't have anything particularly "kiddy" in its advertisements. Its ads were very neutral. The game was shown and the consumer is left to decide if the game is for them. They can tell for the most part that the game is more for kids but they don't get a big over-the-top "THIS GAME IS KIDDY" message from the commercial. The GTA ads are the same way. You can tell the game has guns in it and is very crime based but you don't have anyone telling you "this game is cool". Because the consumer sees mostly game footage they get to see what the game looks like and get a general idea of what it's about. Everything has a very "Here it is. Do you think this game is interesting?" feel to it. It's neutral and everyone can see the commercial and immediately understand what it's about. The commericial is targetted towards everybody just as the console is for everybody.
With Gamecube ads there isn't very much game footage so the consumer can get confused about exactly what the game is about. They therefore have to look at the rest of the ad to figure it out to the best of their abilities and they're likely to get misinformed. "The Mario ad is full of dancing losers in costumes so I guess it's a kids game. Metroid's ad has a dark sci-fi feel to it so I guess it's for adults." One commericial is targetted towards adults and the other to kids. Neither commericial is targetted to everybody which is the console's target demographic. We all love the Japanese Metroid Prime commerical yet all it shows is gameplay footage. So why do we all like it? Because it's a very neutral commercial and therefore the commericial is targetted towards everybody even if the game itself isn't. The Gamecube is for everybody so the Metroid Prime commercial is for everybody.
I don't think this is Nintendo only problem but it's one of them. The console is for everyone and that's a good strategy. They just have to make it so that the marketting appeals to everyone even if specific games don't.
Post by: thecubedcanuck on February 03, 2003, 12:05:02 PM
possibly the best post I have read in a long time.
I agree 100%, but until now didnt realize it
Post by: Kai on February 03, 2003, 05:49:37 PM
The point here is I think that Nintendo make games that, whilst they often appeal to all-ages, don't insult the intelligence of any of their demographics. I hope that continues, and dumbed-down "cool" games aren't put out just to capture the teen games market.
Post by: BlkPaladin on February 06, 2003, 03:53:15 PM
Nintendo on the other hand has been labled a "kiddy" gaming company by Pokemon and its control of the handheld market which is view as a child's machine. (But the accual market demographic is rather contary to this view it is the most balenced of all game machines.) And Nintendo wants to market it self as a game machine that anyone can use and have fun with. And target market select games. But unfortunatly some view this as a reinforcement that the machine is for kids, because there is no "cool" way to effectivly market a game that has an E rating. And Nintendo wants to for very good reasons market M rated games to the age demographic they are suppose to be for. (Like it or not their is a reason why ratings were invented in the first place.)
Post by: Matt on February 06, 2003, 05:42:23 PM
The problem is, Nintendo's got some good titles, but they aren't pushing those titles enough, or to the right audience.
For example, DOAX for the Xbox is heavily advertised now, but if a similar game for the GCN were made, ads might be only late at night and stuff.
Post by: Perfect Cell on February 06, 2003, 05:44:47 PM
Post by: BlkPaladin on February 06, 2003, 05:59:53 PM
Post by: RickPowers on February 06, 2003, 06:11:53 PM
Mature Games: Playboy, Maxim. Never on TV ... kids might see it!
Cinematic or Epic games: Movie Theaters.
Teen Games: Television, Movie Theaters.
Rated E: Television and Magazines.
Nintendo would be well served to not be so concerned with whether or not they are "marketing towards kids" if they put an ad for a mature game on TV, and in Prime Time. In fact, they should probably counter any effect that might have by launching a full scale campaign to educate parents on the ratings system and by offering incentives to retailers that refuse to sell mature rated games to kids.
Post by: BlkPaladin on February 06, 2003, 06:14:01 PM
Post by: nolimit19 on February 06, 2003, 09:07:24 PM
a was pretty good when i played it. actually the more i think about it, nintendo just needs its owners to buy some damn games. the reason that support is weak is because games dont sell well enough.
Post by: Matt on February 07, 2003, 10:00:32 AM
Quote
Originally posted by: RickPowers
That's the entire problem in a nutshell, BlkPaladin. Nintendo's marketing is best described as "scattershot". They have a very strange idea of the places it's appropriate to market certain games. It's almost like marketing has a bullet list or something.
Mature Games: Playboy, Maxim. Never on TV ... kids might see it!
Cinematic or Epic games: Movie Theaters.
Teen Games: Television, Movie Theaters.
Rated E: Television and Magazines.
Nintendo would be well served to not be so concerned with whether or not they are "marketing towards kids" if they put an ad for a mature game on TV, and in Prime Time. In fact, they should probably counter any effect that might have by launching a full scale campaign to educate parents on the ratings system and by offering incentives to retailers that refuse to sell mature rated games to kids.
That's the problem. A lot of people who would play a mature game don't buy the monthly issue of Playboy each time it hits the newstand. They need to put these things on TV, where people can actually see them.
Post by: GaimeGuy on February 07, 2003, 01:22:11 PM
A: pumped up and ready to get Zelda.
B: Just getting informed about the OoT/MQ bonus disk and going out to pre-order.
C: Skeptical about the game because of its graphics, but they will rent it to try it out before deciding whether to buy or not.
Zelda will do very well... likely even better in the U.S. than SSBM did In Japan.
Post by: AlphaDragoon2002 on February 07, 2003, 01:53:58 PM
Post by: GBA>Gamecube on February 07, 2003, 03:09:15 PM
"gamecubes lack of appeal to teen audiences"
which is why is it #3 in North America
Post by: Bishman on February 07, 2003, 04:41:39 PM
Hello and thank you for contacting Nintendo,
Thanks for your comments about our publicly efforts. The satisfaction of our
older players is very important to us, and we are committed to producing and
licensing serious games for the serious gamer.
As our Nintendo GameCube library of games continues to grow, we will have a
large concentration of Nintendo and License games designed for players in their
teens, and older! Some of the games recently released on the Nintendo GameCube
for our teen and older players are Metroid Prime, Resident Evil, Resident Evil
Zero, Blood Omen 2, BMX XXX, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4, Die Hard: Vendetta,
Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem, Hunter: The Reckoning, Lord of the Rings:
The Two Towers, Medal of Honor: Frontline, Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance,
Star Fox Adventures, BloodRayne, Star Wars Jedi Knight II: Jedi Outcast, Star
Wars: Bounty Hunter, Phantasy Star Online: Episodes I and II, Dead To Rights,
Smuggler's Run: Warzones, TimeSplitters 2, Turok: Evolution, and James Bond
007 Nightfire.
Upcoming games include Duke Nukem Forever, Return to Castle Wolfenstein, Lost
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Fellowship of the Ring, True Crime: Streets of L.A., Summoner: A Goddess
Reborn, and several other games. There are also many games that appeal to
players of all ages: Animal Crossing, Super Monkey Ball 2, and Super Mario
Sunshine are great examples of games that players of all ages enjoy, and sports
games like NCAA Football 2003 allow fans to control every in-depth aspect of the
game.
Speaking of sports games, there is a full compliment of titles covering every
major sport available, from NASCAR to Pro and Collegiate Basketball, Golf to
Hockey. The extreme sports are well-covered as well, with such standouts as
Aggressive Inline and Mat Hoffman's Pro BMX 2.
For complete information on all new or upcoming games for our systems, go to
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Post by: Bishman on February 07, 2003, 04:51:43 PM
Post by: KrazyJ1098 on February 07, 2003, 07:39:45 PM
jason
Post by: Boffo on February 10, 2003, 07:00:19 PM
Post by: penfold on February 10, 2003, 07:31:33 PM
Post by: Mingesium on February 10, 2003, 07:48:05 PM
Post by: Icons by Size on February 11, 2003, 11:43:10 AM
Post by: Kuchakor on February 11, 2003, 01:00:54 PM
My grandparents, who probably don't even know that games are in 3d, knows who mario is.
I was born in 88, so maybe I'm wrong, but I read somewhere that in a poll in 1991 or 92, that Mario was more recognized than Bugs Bunny or even Mickey Mouse.
Post by: Ian Sane on February 11, 2003, 01:09:57 PM
"1991 or 92" is the key part of that. That's over ten years ago. That's before Sony or Microsoft even entered the console business. That's before the concept of a "casual gamer" existed. Things have changed too much since then. Therefore you can't use a poll from ten years ago to determine how popular Mario is.
Post by: Stimutacs Addict on February 11, 2003, 03:41:22 PM
There is very little about video games that makes them mature... think about it: you are sitting on your arse anywhere from 1 - 9.8 feet away from a TV screen (more if you use a Wavebird) while controlling some polygonal figure (sprites if you are down with the old systems). No goal is accomplished in this process, except in the case that you are playing a strategy game in which you are using your wit or if you are expanding your vocabulary by learning the definitions of the words in the games (i used to do this as a young child; now my little brother does the same). If you are playing online or a multiplayer game, you may meet new friends, but the same could be done outside (save for the online games, those are quite different)
anyways, next time someone pulls the "Nintendo's games are kiddy" on me i am whipping out the above rebuttal. anyone who wants to add more to support me i do appreciate their help.. this is practically mentally planned out in my head right now.. i am just waiting for my next encounter with a "Mature" gamer.
Post by: Mr. McBlack on February 11, 2003, 06:38:22 PM
Quote
Originally posted by: Stimutacs Addict
I agree with all those that agree with me.
There is very little about video games that makes them mature... think about it: you are sitting on your arse anywhere from 1 - 9.8 feet away from a TV screen (more if you use a Wavebird) while controlling some polygonal figure (sprites if you are down with the old systems). No goal is accomplished in this process, except in the case that you are playing a strategy game in which you are using your wit or if you are expanding your vocabulary by learning the definitions of the words in the games (i used to do this as a young child; now my little brother does the same). If you are playing online or a multiplayer game, you may meet new friends, but the same could be done outside (save for the online games, those are quite different)
anyways, next time someone pulls the "Nintendo's games are kiddy" on me i am whipping out the above rebuttal. anyone who wants to add more to support me i do appreciate their help.. this is practically mentally planned out in my head right now.. i am just waiting for my next encounter with a "Mature" gamer.
This is great. I just copy-pasted it for posterity.
