Gaming Forums => Nintendo Gaming => Topic started by: NWR_insanolord on December 05, 2013, 10:02:03 AM
Title: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: NWR_insanolord on December 05, 2013, 10:02:03 AM
Right now is a hard time to be a Nintendo fan, or at least a Nintendo console fan. The Wii U is struggling, with relatively few games and an uncertain future. But this thread isn't for pessimism and assuming the worst. If you want that, might I suggest most of the other threads in these forums, or nearly entirely the rest of the gaming media. Here, as we get down to the end of the year, we should try to look on the bright side. I'm not suggesting blind, baseless optimism, but I hope members of our community can share some positive thoughts about the present and future of Nintendo.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Khushrenada on December 05, 2013, 10:38:09 AM
Well, I think one of the most positive things about the future of Nintendo will be that eventually they will make a new console thus finally putting the Wii U out of its misery at some point and whatever that console is, it surely will be better than this one.
Am I doing it right?
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Ceric on December 05, 2013, 10:42:19 AM
Monster Hunter 4 for Wii U.
Their is a lot of good in the base console design. I think the Gamepad is a worthwhile addition and will be an asset to Wii U2. I'm trying to finish Earthbound and my living room is destroyed so I just took my Wii U to the bed room plugged it in and using it with no TV. Thats awesome.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: ejamer on December 05, 2013, 11:03:36 AM
Optimism for Wii U is easy.
When it comes to overall quality, Nintendo is far and away my choice of publisher with a handful of incredible dev studios. First party exclusives are the number one selling point for Wii U - and those games alone are enough to justify the (relatively low) cost of a new console.
Games like Super Mario 3D World are prime examples of this: an incredibly experience that I can play alone or with my whole family, that can't be found anywhere else. Nintendo manages to put out a couple of these "must play" titles pretty much every year, so what we have now is just the start. And don't even get me started on anticipation for the Xenoblade sequel. The Wii game was something I adored and dropped hundreds of hours on; the upcoming Wii U sequel looks gorgeous from early videos and is squarely at the top of my most wanted list.
On top of first-party gold, there has been surprisingly decent indie/KickStarter support of the eShop with many games announced for the next year or so. There are also still a few third parties worth keeping an eye on. Will Monster Hunter make another Wii U appearance? I don't know... but if it does, that is another game worth playing for hundreds of hours. Will Atlus publish a handful of amazing niche titles like they did on the Wii? Who knows... but I wouldn't count them out. So while pickin's might be slim once you get past Nintendo's own offerings, there are at least some games and hope for more.
Finally, I love off TV play. Between my wife and two kids, gaming time can be limited. Being able to play many Wii U games in the same room as my family without requiring the TV is huge for me.
So yeah... there's at least some stuff for gamers to be happy about with Wii U.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: azeke on December 05, 2013, 11:05:34 AM
I like videogames!
more than bitching on forums
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Adrock on December 05, 2013, 11:15:24 AM
I'm pretty happy with Wii U so far. I buy a game, have my fun, and go about my merry way. While there was a rough patch earlier this year for Wii U owners, I have to say I'm pretty content with what is offered now. I still have The Wonderful 101 to play through so I'm actually backlogged on Wii U. Admittedly, I don't really require a constant flow of releases. I fit in gaming where I can and even then, I have to feel like playing something which isn't always the case. I understand people's frustrations with software droughts, but it hasn't really affected me. Next year is going to be bananas. I don't know if I'll be able to devote the time I want to Mario Kart 8 and Super Smash Bros.
The load times could be better. Otherwise, it's a great console. I definitely see myself ranking it above the original Wii.
And if we're including 3DS as well in terms of Nintendo optimism, it's bangarang. The XL is beautiful and I've had so much fun with it so far. Nintendo mishandling Swapnote was super lame, but to be fair, I barely used the app. I'm extremely comfortable with my choice to stick with Wii U and 3DS until at least the first PS4 redesign. I have more than enough games to play between the two.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Sarail on December 05, 2013, 12:37:27 PM
Definitely agree with you, Ceric, on Monster Hunter 4 for Wii U. I really hope Capcom do that again with this new sequel.
As for the console, I'm quite happy with my purchase. There were some rough spots in the beginning with mine - system crashes/freezing, GamePad not syncing properly - but those two problems have been sorted out with all of the firmware updates. Mine's a very stable system because of it.
I've had some really fun experiences with the console, too - both single-player and multi with my family and/or friends. Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor's Edge was a brutally hard experience, but I had a blast all the way through. The almost 100 hours that I poured into Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate were fantastic, too - and I'm nowhere near finished.
Mario 3D World has blown me away with its brilliant gameplay, music, and graphics. I also purchased LEGO City Undercover back earlier in the year, and I just recently got around to starting the game. I had no clue I had that charming of a GTA-like sandbox game sitting on my shelf for so long. Bloody fantastic experience.
And to finish, I'm in love with the Pro Controller. So much so that I bought an adapter that allows me to connect it to my PC - which I'm using to play Steam games and Final Fantasy XIV: ARR. The Pro feels excellent in my hands...almost as good as the GameCube controller. Ergonomically, it's the best controller of the three new consoles. Just wish it had a tiny mic built in - that would help with games such as Mario 3D World requiring me to use the GamePad for GamePad-specific levels (curse you, Captain Toad!) Don't think I don't appreciate the GamePad, though. Games like Nintendo Land knock it out of the park using it, Miiverse has very creative uses, and Off-TV play is king. Premier League football on the telly while I play Mario on the 'Pad? Yes, please.
Brilliant job, Nintendo. Thank you.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Ian Sane on December 05, 2013, 12:40:26 PM
The 3DS is a great system with a good steady lineup of games and healthy third party support. No matter what Nintendo has remained on the ball regarding handhelds and even little hiccups like the DS and 3DS had in the beginning get ironed out. Realistically handhelds face competition with smartphones but Nintendo has dodged that bullet for now, largely by making the 3DS really appealing for dedicated gamers that want more out of portable gaming than Angry Birds. No matter what happens in the console front, it seems that Nintendo will be making handhelds in the near future and will be making great games for them.
As for the Wii U, I played it recently at a friend's house. Pikmin 3 is awesome, as I hoped it would be. X will probably be great as well and despite being incredibly nervous about where they'll take it, I'm excited about a future Zelda reveal, assuming it resembles that demo trailer from a few years ago. Better to have Zelda HD late than never. I will own a Wii U at some point, it's just a matter of when.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: lolmonade on December 05, 2013, 12:51:13 PM
I gotta say, all things considered, I'm actually (mostly) happy with what I've gotten out of Nintendo this year.
Wii U - I know the lineup was sparce, but I don't have the opportunity to be a full-time gamer, so as usual, I ended up only having the opportunity to purchase a few Wii U games, most of which I enjoy immensely. I have some quibbles about Wii U's slow transition between menus, and the snail-like pace that virtual console games are appearing on the E-shop, but it's a great 2nd-tier console to own, and I love the gamepad & off-tv play. My only concern with the Wii U is that I don't know what kind of longevity I can expect out of it, and am concerned about how antiquated it'll feel once I get my hands on a PS4
3DS - Everyone knows how stellar a year of gaming it's been for 3DS. No need to re-tread familiar roads.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Pixelated Pixies on December 05, 2013, 01:50:06 PM
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: nickmitch on December 05, 2013, 08:04:53 PM
I'm optimistic for Nintendo. The Wii U is a slightly different consideration. At the end of the day, Nintendo still makes the best games. I'm just not sure if the company is making the kind of games that will bring people to the console. This is beyond a 3D Mario, Zelda, and Smash Bros (easily Nintendo's "big three"). But those franchises may not be enough anymore. (Although, maybe Smash Bros is.) I still think Nintendo not only can but likely is making those games, whatever the hell they may be. That being said, it may be too late for the Wii U. I think Nintendo can scramble together a replacement, with better specs and a few additional features (e.g., better range on the GamePad, better support for two GamePads, etc), but I don't know if that's even a good idea.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Spak-Spang on December 05, 2013, 08:50:59 PM
I know I have been negative on the Nintendo Wii U recently, and on Nintendo in general. But they are still my favorite game company.
Some things people need to remember about Nintendo that are positive.
1) Even Nintendo's most derivative sequels are playable, imaginative and generally well crafted games.
2) Nintendo designs their games for their hardware only which means that when you play a Nintendo game on a Nintendo system you are getting a great experience that is usually a great experience on that system.
3) Nintendo's games still have vast appeal, and lead the market in all age gaming that can actually appeal to ALL AGES.
4) Nintendo's handheld systems still rock.
5) 2014 has several great games lined up that will make you happy to own a Wii U.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Shaymin on December 05, 2013, 09:32:03 PM
Anyway, it's very easy to be optimistic about WiiU since they're the only console that won't put up with the fee-to-pay bullhockey that is infecting every other console on the market like a virus. Plus it's guaranteed a good amount of quality software and I can play it in my preferred form factor.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Phil on December 06, 2013, 02:30:04 PM
I'm enjoying the Wii U, and I'm sure it's going to continue getting support from Nintendo. Can't wait for Smash, Mario Kart 8, DKC, Yarn Yoshi (if that's still being worked on), and X. I'm excited to see what else is coming next year. :)
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: lolmonade on December 06, 2013, 03:10:57 PM
Anyway, it's very easy to be optimistic about WiiU since they're the only console that won't put up with the fee-to-pay bullhockey that is infecting every other console on the market like a virus. Plus it's guaranteed a good amount of quality software and I can play it in my preferred form factor.
I'm cherry-picking here, but didn't Tank!Tank!Tank! go Free-to-Play?
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Fatty The Hutt on December 06, 2013, 05:41:37 PM
10 Reasons Why Buddy From TimeTech Would Pick Wii U Over PS4 or X-Bone Right Now (http://techland.time.com/2013/12/04/10-reasons-id-pick-the-wii-u-over-the-playstation-4-and-xbox-one-today/#ixzz2mWFsatXq)
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: smallsharkbigbite on December 06, 2013, 06:19:40 PM
Nintendo will be that eventually they will make a new console thus finally putting the Wii U out of its misery at some point and whatever that console is, it surely will be better than this one.
I'm a Browns fan. What I've learned from being a Browns fan is it can always get worse.
Back to the topic though. The 3DS is all kinds of awesome and could break into my top 3 consoles of all time by the end of this gen. Others have pointed that out though. The Wii U is the first HD Nintendo console and their games look really good on it. I like the Gamepad and offscreen play more than I thought I would. As long as MK8, DKC, SSB, and a Zelda get released on the Wii U I'll be happy with my purchase of it.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Oblivion on December 06, 2013, 08:09:40 PM
10 Reasons Why Buddy From TimeTech Would Pick Wii U Over PS4 or X-Bone Right Now (http://techland.time.com/2013/12/04/10-reasons-id-pick-the-wii-u-over-the-playstation-4-and-xbox-one-today/#ixzz2mWFsatXq)
He has some facts wrong and he's cherry picking other reasons. This is clickbait, through and through.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Khushrenada on December 06, 2013, 08:32:59 PM
Well, something he mentions and something I was going to be serious and post about it, is Nintendo's online gaming. Now, I know there is a lot of criticism for how some of it has been implemented such as friend codes, lack of unified accounts, slow to release VC games.
Yet, in some things, Nintendo absolutely has nailed it. Free online gaming for any of their games is fabulous. The fact that Nintendo has never been interested in charging for online gaming or has ever made any signal that they may want to do so in the future is an awesome gesture to those who buy their products. Especially when you consider how profits and sales have been done and this could be seen as another way to bring in revenue and yet they have still stayed to the course of keeping online gaming free.
At the same time, it may be that when people are unhappy about the service or wish they made changes to it, they can sort of shrug and say at least it is free and not have to worry too much about trying to improve it more. Thus, I can't help but wonder if they tried to focus more on that area if they wouldn't have better ammo to use against the PS4 and Xbox1 and convincing more people to buy their console. Perhaps it would get more people to buy a third party game on their consoles since it might be more appealing to be able to play it online against others for free instead of having to pay a subscription fee to do so on another console.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: nickmitch on December 06, 2013, 10:47:24 PM
10 Reasons Why Buddy From TimeTech Would Pick Wii U Over PS4 or X-Bone Right Now (http://techland.time.com/2013/12/04/10-reasons-id-pick-the-wii-u-over-the-playstation-4-and-xbox-one-today/#ixzz2mWFsatXq)
He has some facts wrong and he's cherry picking other reasons. This is clickbait, through and through.
He has some points, but saying "HD enough" really sucks the credibility out the whole article.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Oblivion on December 06, 2013, 11:10:35 PM
Well, something he mentions and something I was going to be serious and post about it, is Nintendo's online gaming. Now, I know there is a lot of criticism for how some of it has been implemented such as friend codes, lack of unified accounts, slow to release VC games.
Yet, in some things, Nintendo absolutely has nailed it. Free online gaming for any of their games is fabulous. The fact that Nintendo has never been interested in charging for online gaming or has ever made any signal that they may want to do so in the future is an awesome gesture to those who buy their products. Especially when you consider how profits and sales have been done and this could be seen as another way to bring in revenue and yet they have still stayed to the course of keeping online gaming free.
At the same time, it may be that when people are unhappy about the service or wish they made changes to it, they can sort of shrug and say at least it is free and not have to worry too much about trying to improve it more. Thus, I can't help but wonder if they tried to focus more on that area if they wouldn't have better ammo to use against the PS4 and Xbox1 and convincing more people to buy their console. Perhaps it would get more people to buy a third party game on their consoles since it might be more appealing to be able to play it online against others for free instead of having to pay a subscription fee to do so on another console.
The problem I see with this is that while, yeah, it is free... I can name the number of good online games on the system on less than two hands. Not only that... the communities for those games are tiny and not varied whatsoever.
For example: Black Ops II. While the other consoles + PC versions had half a million people playing at any one time, the Wii U version had, at the most that I ever saw, 5000 people online at once. And on a daily basis it was close to 1500. While that may seem like a lot most of them played DM or TDM so I couldn't usually play the other game modes.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Nemo on December 07, 2013, 01:22:48 AM
Amount of games I want to play on Wii U > Amount of time I have to play games
I played part way through Pikmin 3. My semester is almost over and I really want to get back to it.
I've played some 3 player and 2 player Mario 3D World. Amazing! Can't wait to play more.
Nintendo Land: Luigi's Ghost Mansion and Mario Chase with 5 players so fun! the DK single player one was pretty good, too!
Earthbound, only about 6 hours in, but soooo good.
Little Inferno: although it's a one player game, played through it with a friend. There was a lot of humor in the game. We had a lot of good laughs. Well worth it.
Fluidity: it's a fun game. I maybe got half way through it.
Need for Speed & Assassin's Creed 3: haven't really had time to play these ones at all.
Darksiders II: only played a few hours. It's good but not great.
Arriving December 25th: Rayman Legends and ZombiU
Sheesh. I almost wish there were LESS games. I'm sure I'll evenutally get New Super Mario Bros U (and/or Luigi) and probably Wonderful 101.
Also, I think Miiverse is fantastic. I like drawing with the stylus and seeing what others have drawn. (This is particularly good for me, as I'm kind of an artsy guy.)
For me, I think this has been a good year. Probably better than the last few years of Wii lineups. 2012 had Xenoblade (in the US) and nothing else for me. 2011 had Skyward Sword and nothing else for me. 2010 had 6+ games that I thought were really good.
I'm sad that the Wii U isn't doing better (comparable to sales and image of PS4), but I'm having a blast with the games I have and am confident that next year will be just as good for me.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Adrock on December 07, 2013, 07:30:55 AM
Also, I think Miiverse is fantastic. I like drawing with the stylus and seeing what others have drawn. (This is particularly good for me, as I'm kind of an artsy guy.)
I don't think Miiverse gets the recognition it deserves. It's a really great way to connect players who are playing the same game as you.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: nickmitch on December 07, 2013, 12:01:33 PM
And not get called a *** in the process.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: shingi_70 on December 07, 2013, 12:26:28 PM
Miiverse is probably one of the most innovative concepts of this generation. Nintendo Games are still pretty good which is saying a lot.
Nintendo doesn't get a lot of press or credit for their push of indie developers as much as Sony has and even Microsoft has.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: TheBossGaro on December 07, 2013, 07:55:33 PM
Despite all the game droughts and bone headed marketing decisions, I really do love the Wii U. Every first party game that comes out reminds me why Nintendo is the best game developer on the market. The "lesser" graphics actually don't bother me, since games like Wind Waker HD and Super Mario 3D World look way better than what the PS4 and Xbox One are offering (at least for the moment).
All in all, yes I'd love to see some more games, but to be honest, they come out at just about the rate I can afford them to come out. Any faster, and I'd be falling behind. Plus, I'm stoked for several of next year's big games.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Kytim89 on December 07, 2013, 09:35:07 PM
It appears that Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition will not be coming to the Wii U. Who did not see this coming?
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: NWR_insanolord on December 07, 2013, 09:42:40 PM
It appears that Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition will not be coming to the Wii U. Who did not see this coming?
What part of the word "optimism" do you not understand? As I said in the opening post, there are any number of other places you could put that post, and you chose the exact wrong one.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: the asylum on December 08, 2013, 01:16:41 AM
All Nintendo needs to do to restore my faith in them is making new F-Zero.
Or Custom Robo. Or Starfox, where Fox and friends stay in their friggin arwings
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Oblivion on December 08, 2013, 01:21:52 AM
F-Zero HD... Starfox HD... Custom Robo HD...
*drool*
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Pixelated Pixies on December 08, 2013, 04:34:08 AM
My mum always says that if you can't say something nice, then don't say something at all. In that vein, I would like to say this about Nintendo
...
...
...
Joking aside, I think Nintendo have pulled off arguably the best year of any handheld ever, a year in which not only was there so many high quality releases but also a year in which the breadth of content and diversity of experiences was exceptionally high. From Luigi's Mansion to Fire Emblem, and from Steamworld Dig to A Link Between Worlds, 2013 marked the year when the 3DS finally got itself out from beneath the shadow of the original DS. The 3DS can now be considered a great platform in it's own right, and much of that has to do with the games that have been released within the last 12 months.
As for the Wii U? Well, I don't own one yet, but Super Mario 3D World looks fun.
... ... ...
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Adrock on December 08, 2013, 11:22:03 AM
I haven't purchased a 3DS game since Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D. I will buy The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds eventually and maybe Mario and Luigi: Dream Team.
The second half of 2013 was awesome for Wii U. It's obvious Nintendo wasn't ready to launch last year, but I think they're beginning to hit their stride.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: MagicCow64 on December 10, 2013, 11:07:53 PM
It would be shocking if this pans out, but if it's true maybe Nintendo isn't kidding around. I expected at least Smash to get delayed to holiday 2014 (now maybe just the 3DS version), and without that, the holiday lineup would be wide open. They'd need two major titles ready at least, of which we've heard little/nothing. At least one of those game would likely something announced like Yarn Yoshi or maybe X, but the other would have to be something on the caliber of Super Mario 3D World. Surprise Zelda early release? New Metroid project? I'm not sure what else it could be unless it was a new IP they were super-confident in.
Feel optimism!
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Adrock on December 11, 2013, 01:36:33 AM
I really can't see Nintendo releasing both Mario Kart 8 and Super Smash Bros. for Wii U in the same quarter. Mario Kart is more popular (and probably further along) so it makes sense to launch that as soon as possible to help Wii U sales. Nintendo should launch Super Smash Bros. for Wii U before Super Smash Bros. for 3DS to avoid a New Super Mario Bros. 2/U scenario. Wii U needs the stronger sales. Mario Kart 8 could be the big Spring title (Nintendo didn't really have anything in 2013) while Super Smash Bros. for Wii U could carry the momentum in the Summer, maybe in August. Neither Bayonetta 2 nor X can carry a holiday season; they're more gap titles (and having Bayonetta playable in Super Smash Bros. then launching her game afterwards would help immensely). Nintendo likely has some surprises at E3 though Zelda Wii U seems too soon. Unless Metroid has been developed in secret for the past two years, I have my doubts and the series hasn't quite worked out as a big holiday title. Nintendo may just have to use Super Smash Bros. to carry them through the 2014 holiday season though I'd still launch the Wii U version first.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: leahsdad on December 11, 2013, 02:24:47 AM
Miiverse is probably one of the most innovative concepts of this generation. Nintendo Games are still pretty good which is saying a lot.
I have to heartily agree. Miiverse is the ONLY online discussion forum that I'm comfortable letting my 7 year old read (Sorry NWR forums). I think if Nintendo pushed it, along with the fun of drawing , parents can really embrace it. And, as a human being, I find the the one of the least offensive forums out there. A place on the internet without name calling and flame wars? Who knew?
But another hurdle that Nintendo would have to overcome is the fact that most parents (sorry for the sprinkling of pessimism here) simply don't give a crap what their kid is doing and definitely won't take the time to really participate in their child's consumption of media. I mean, I do. I know what fairy books my daughter is reading, and the difference between the fashion fairy and the birthday fairy. I will watch and discuss the new My Little Pony animated movie with her (the one where the ponies turn into teenage girls). And I when I see her grandfather stick freakin' Candy Crush in front of her, I will rush in with my DSi and saying, "Hey honey, check out this pre-installed version of Brain Age Math Express" because I don't want her to rot her brain with that freemium crap.
It's a matter of education and branding. Nintendo should, and I think very well can, teach parents that there is more quality to there games and more value to their products than PS4 and XBox One. Not that Nintendo is the Fisher-Price of gaming-- rather, that Nintendo is like the Whole Foods of gaming. Because we all know that if there is any distinguishing feature of Nintendo games, it's that they have a ingenius emphasis on fun and play that other games sacrifice in order to emphasize cinematic grandeur and violent spectacle. Which has always been tough for Nintendo, because cinematic grandeur and violent spectacle is really, really attractive.
It's a tough sell, sure. It's marketing that targets the highest denominator. It's marketing that aims not for what's easy to do, but to inspire consumers to do what's hard by convincing them that hard is worthwhile. But organic foods have done it, for the most part. And tough is still shy of impossible.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: ymeegod on December 11, 2013, 02:33:57 AM
Spring 2014? No chance IMO for either title. Most likely MK8 will launch first (there's already been hands on demo) and will launch beginning of summer. Super Smash Bros will be the late 3rd quarter/x-mas title.
Really beginning to doubt X will make it stateside in the US in 2014--be lucky if Japan gets it by fourth quarter which means we won't get it until 2015 if we get it at all. Maybe we'll get lucky and Gamestop will publish the game again.
-----------------------
I'm kinda expecting one or two unannounced titles--like Pokémon WII U and WII U Sports. Both of them are big sellers and Nintendo needs those types of sales.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Kytim89 on December 11, 2013, 04:16:36 AM
Zelda Wii U will be the holiday title of 2014.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Adrock on December 11, 2013, 07:40:33 AM
The Zelda team just got back together after Wind Waker HD and A Link Between World were completed. I could conceivably see them getting the game out sooner if they reused Wind Waker HD's engine and even then, 2014 might be stretching it. The team likes to take their time so holiday 2015 is a safer bet.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Spak-Spang on December 11, 2013, 07:49:01 AM
A Custom Robo Game would be GREAT on the Wii U. I would love the idea of on the fly customization, and treating the controller like a remote control for your robot. I think you could do some really interesting and fun things with the design.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: NWR_insanolord on December 11, 2013, 11:24:31 AM
I really can't see Nintendo releasing both Mario Kart 8 and Super Smash Bros. for Wii U in the same quarter.
I don't think it'll happen, but they've already done essentially that in the past. Brawl came out in March of 2008, and then Mario Kart Wii in April. Not technically the same quarter, but barely a month between them. Of course, they then had a really disappointing second half of the year.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: ejamer on December 11, 2013, 11:50:35 AM
... Really beginning to doubt X will make it stateside in the US in 2014--be lucky if Japan gets it by fourth quarter which means we won't get it until 2015 if we get it at all. Maybe we'll get lucky and Gamestop will publish the game again. ...
I keep hearing people say that X will arrive next year, and have a really hard time believing it. 2015 seems more reasonable to me... although earlier would always be nice. Frankly, I'm just keeping fingers crossed that it comes at all.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Adrock on December 11, 2013, 12:03:51 PM
I really can't see Nintendo releasing both Mario Kart 8 and Super Smash Bros. for Wii U in the same quarter.
I don't think it'll happen, but they've already done essentially that in the past. Brawl came out in March of 2008, and then Mario Kart Wii in April. Not technically the same quarter, but barely a month between them. Of course, they then had a really disappointing second half of the year.
That's the entire point though. While it's true that Nintendo has released major titles in close proximity in the past (e.g. Super Mario 3D Land and Mario Kart 7 were released less than a month apart). I just can't see them releasing their two most popular multiplayer games and system sellers in the same quarter on a struggling Wii U which would screw up their financials.
Also, wasn't Super Smash Bros. Brawl delayed to 2008? Nintendo probably wanted it and Mario Kart Wii spaced out more.
I can see Mario Kart 8 releasing in May 2014 and Super Smash Bros. for Wii U coming out in July or August. If Nintendo pulls off another E3 surprise like Donkey Kong Country Returns (announced and released within six months or so), that will likely be their 2014 holiday season title. My guess would be Metroid in terms of timing though I see it more as a gap title.
I keep hearing people say that X will arrive next year, and have a really hard time believing it. 2015 seems more reasonable to me... although earlier would always be nice. Frankly, I'm just keeping fingers crossed that it comes at all.
The footage Nintendo originally showed was far enough along that I think a latter 2014 release is reasonable. I'm having a more difficult time believing X will be some big title. It's looks great, but just really niche. I predict X will sell worse than Xenoblade which sold as well as it did mostly due to Nintendo of America telling people they couldn't have it.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Ian Sane on December 11, 2013, 12:24:06 PM
Nintendo's Christmas sales might indicate if they release SSB and Mario Kart close to each other. If they didn't sell as well as they hoped the goal might be to get anything that is ready to go out as soon as possible to see if anything catches on.
As for Metroid as a "secret" title, are we assuming Retro is working on this because I don't know how feasible it would be to expect anything from them in the same year as DKC. They traditionally have not worked so fast. Unless you-know-who is working on Metroid again. I can't comment on THAT and remain optimistic so I'll leave it at that.
Xenoblade might sell better than X because the Wii had a very large install base. No one bought a Wii for Xenoblade. It was a system they already owned for years. Would they buy a Wii U for X? Pretty much every Wii U game needs to take into account its system-selling capability. Until sales pick up there is effectively a cap on game sales. I can actually see myself buying X even if I don't own a Wii U yet just to secure a copy in case it becomes rare and I can't get it when I do buy a Wii U.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: NWR_insanolord on December 11, 2013, 12:24:45 PM
I think X is a perfect fit for the late July through early September slot. That's where they put stuff without huge mass appeal that's targeted mainly at people like us. Metroid, Pikmin, Advance/Battalion Wars, those kind of things. That's assuming it'll be done in time, but if you figure they've been working on it since they finished Xenoblade it's been in development for a while now. If Smash hits 2014, which I have considerably less confidence in, I'd expect it to be (at least one of) the week before Black Friday games.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Mannypon on December 11, 2013, 12:47:37 PM
Miiverse is probably one of the most innovative concepts of this generation. Nintendo Games are still pretty good which is saying a lot.
I have to heartily agree. Miiverse is the ONLY online discussion forum that I'm comfortable letting my 7 year old read (Sorry NWR forums). I think if Nintendo pushed it, along with the fun of drawing , parents can really embrace it. And, as a human being, I find the the one of the least offensive forums out there. A place on the internet without name calling and flame wars? Who knew?
But another hurdle that Nintendo would have to overcome is the fact that most parents (sorry for the sprinkling of pessimism here) simply don't give a crap what their kid is doing and definitely won't take the time to really participate in their child's consumption of media. I mean, I do. I know what fairy books my daughter is reading, and the difference between the fashion fairy and the birthday fairy. I will watch and discuss the new My Little Pony animated movie with her (the one where the ponies turn into teenage girls). And I when I see her grandfather stick freakin' Candy Crush in front of her, I will rush in with my DSi and saying, "Hey honey, check out this pre-installed version of Brain Age Math Express" because I don't want her to rot her brain with that freemium crap.
It's a matter of education and branding. Nintendo should, and I think very well can, teach parents that there is more quality to there games and more value to their products than PS4 and XBox One. Not that Nintendo is the Fisher-Price of gaming-- rather, that Nintendo is like the Whole Foods of gaming. Because we all know that if there is any distinguishing feature of Nintendo games, it's that they have a ingenius emphasis on fun and play that other games sacrifice in order to emphasize cinematic grandeur and violent spectacle. Which has always been tough for Nintendo, because cinematic grandeur and violent spectacle is really, really attractive.
It's a tough sell, sure. It's marketing that targets the highest denominator. It's marketing that aims not for what's easy to do, but to inspire consumers to do what's hard by convincing them that hard is worthwhile. But organic foods have done it, for the most part. And tough is still shy of impossible.
I tip my hat to you sir, brilliant post through and through. My only issue is that with that approach, your catering to a small minority of people. You said it yourself, parents barely keep track of what their kids are consuming. The market is driven by flash and violence with only a few people who can appreciate the special touch that Nintendo provides with their games. Hell, I'd even go so far as to say that that's the current WiiU install base lol. Anyone who has already purchased the WiiU is a Nintendo diehard or someone who can really see the value in Nintendo's games and the system.
To end in a more positive note though, I too am in love with my WiiU. I struggle to grasp how people can complain about the WiiU and its lineup. Unless your still a teen and have lots of time on your hands, the WiiU lineup is sufficient enough for the average adult IMO. I myself have just finished Ass Creed 4 and have yet to play the new Mario game, Pikmin 3, Wind Waker HD, Duex Ex, Rayman, and let alone finish ZombiU which I purchased at launch lol. Now my dilemma is worsened given I also have a 3ds and a PC so my gaming time is spread pretty thin lol. Again, I'm aware this only applies to me but, how much games do people need? lol
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: alegoicoe on December 11, 2013, 01:55:50 PM
at least sales are picking up in Japan DQ and Mario are both in the top 10
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Mannypon on December 11, 2013, 03:19:48 PM
Man I so wish that DX game was released here in the US as a single player game :/. As for Japan, little by little Nintendo is slowly adding to that userbase. Time for them to go out and buy some of those older releases now and add to those long term tallies lol.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: ejamer on December 11, 2013, 03:26:29 PM
I keep hearing people say that X will arrive next year, and have a really hard time believing it. 2015 seems more reasonable to me... although earlier would always be nice. Frankly, I'm just keeping fingers crossed that it comes at all.
The footage Nintendo originally showed was far enough along that I think a latter 2014 release is reasonable. ...
To clarify, I think a late 2014 release in Japan is perfectly possible. I just expected there to be a gap between that release and when it becomes available in Europe/North America. (Hopefully less of a gap than what Xenoblade had for North Americans.) I'm also not upset about any delay as long as it does arrive eventually.
I have no comment about how many copies X might sell other than to confirm that I'm excited enough to preorder whenever that option becomes available. Xenoblade isn't for everyone, but was easily the most fun I've had with a video game in well over a decade.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Mannypon on December 11, 2013, 04:41:06 PM
What are the chances that it's getting a translation as its getting developed to cut down on the time we need to wait to get it? The WiiU needs a major 2012 and X would fill a nice niche in the WiiU's lineup for the coming year. With Zelda a probable 2015 title, X should be slotted for next year. Here's hoping for a worldwide release :) lol.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Luigi Dude on December 11, 2013, 04:46:00 PM
Translation: As we were told today, the statement about the spring release for Super Smash. Bros. was a mistake. Therefore no actual date has been set except for the year 2014. Mario Kart 8 will still be released in spring 2014.
So yeah, Fall 2014 is still the best bet for Smash Bros.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Caterkiller on December 15, 2013, 03:09:26 AM
Translation: As we were told today, the statement about the spring release for Super Smash. Bros. was a mistake. Therefore no actual date has been set except for the year 2014. Mario Kart 8 will still be released in spring 2014.
So yeah, Fall 2014 is still the best bet for Smash Bros.
Unless of course that German guy just leaked info too early and this is all a set up for some Nintendo Direct that will reveal the date and all. Optimism!
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: shingi_70 on December 16, 2013, 09:42:10 PM
I was guessing myself
Spring- Mario Kart Summer- Smash Bros Fall- X
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Spak-Spang on December 16, 2013, 09:56:45 PM
Shingi_70 I would guess that too. Except what is the big Winter/Christmas game.
X is the small niche game Nintendo always releases one a year. So that puts another game for the Winter. Zelda is not ready. Star Fox and F-Zero are not being worked on. Maybe Kirby or some sort of new IP we don't know about? Hmmm....
If Nintendo hits its mark, next year should be a good year for at least Nintendo fans. DK, Smash, and X will be great games.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: smallsharkbigbite on December 17, 2013, 12:32:33 AM
The way I see it is Nintendo has 4M user base. If each of us Wii U owners convinces one person to buy a Wii U in December, it'll do great. I've done my part. I showed a co-worker the $219 Skylanders Wii U deal today and they bit. The rest of you just have to do your part and the Wii U will be a success.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Sarail on December 17, 2013, 12:56:16 AM
I've got a friend who's getting the Wind Waker bundle before the year ends. So, yeah.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: the asylum on December 18, 2013, 01:05:58 AM
oh sure, twist that dagger in a little deeper why dont you...
It saddens me too. What is frustrating, is Nintendo needs to making the F-Zero franchise like the Gran Turismo series for the Play Station. I understand a futuristic racer is not the same as a realistic racer. But to me the series has always had an interesting balance between being a arcade racer and a simulation.
The series had always been about tight controls and carefully racing with precision. There are so many different ways Nintendo can continue to push the franchise.
1) Slalom type races around tracks. 2) death match races with knocking racers off 3) Trick races. With enhanced and special racers. I see this as being very difficult to pull off tricks with using special engine bursts to rotate the craft in air. Tricks would be very hard to pull off to the point videos would be posted just to show off an impossible trick. Similar to San Francisco Rush's trick mode. 4) Create a car mode. This could be as easy as customizing existing cars to allowing a simple 3D editor for players to design cars. Cars could then be sold with (fake...in game currency) that is earned by winning races offline and online. Which is used to buy new parts. and engines and stats. 5)One Game yearly updates. Make the game digital and allow for updates every year with new tracks. Design the game so that it can be played until the next generation of gaming.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: smallsharkbigbite on December 26, 2013, 08:02:02 PM
On Nintendo optimism, 3D world, Windwaker, NES remix, a a few others, have led to the biggest gaming month my Wii U has seen. (According to the game tracker). Not a bad way to end year one.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: BranDonk Kong on December 27, 2013, 11:55:19 AM
I've been pretty hard on Nintendo lately, but after getting Rayman Legends and SM3DW, and seeing the vastly improving sales over the last month, I'm a little more optimistic. Hopefully they can somehow snag some exclusive 3rd party games and really put effort into securing DLC and online play and turn things around. Maybe they will be the next PS3, and Xbox One will be the next GameCube.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Kytim89 on December 27, 2013, 04:52:08 PM
The key to Nintendo's success this generation will be to bring back dormant franchises, make Retro Studios their version of Naughty Dog, and to work out deals with third party developers.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Adrock on December 27, 2013, 05:04:22 PM
The key to Nintendo's success this generation will be (generic suggestions from kytim).
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: Stogi on December 28, 2013, 12:18:36 PM
I'm very optimistic for Nintendo's future simply because they have plenty of options and the bank to back up any of them.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: smallsharkbigbite on December 30, 2013, 11:24:25 AM
Man, Nintendo needs to start paying me commission. I convinced a friend of mine who owns a PS4 to buy a 3DS XL. He has to fly alot and I convinced him it was a better investment than the Vita and he really liked the 3D when I let him play mine.
Title: Re: Nintendo Optimism
Post by: tendoboy1984 on January 15, 2014, 01:34:52 AM
How can you guys possibly know what Nintendo isn't working on? They always save their yearly surprises for E3 and the occasional Nintendo Direct (Hyrule Warriors was certainly unexpected). We don't even know what's coming out after Mario Kart and Smash Bros. (games like 'X' and Yarn Yoshi don't even have release dates).
