We store cookies, you can get more info from our privacy policy.
WiiU

Digital Distribution on Wii U Is Up to Third Party Developers

by Pedro Hernandez - September 16, 2012, 12:11 pm EDT
Total comments: 4 Source: 1up, http://www.1up.com/news/bill-trinen-interview-esho...

While Nintendo will have the option available, ultimately it is up to the game's developers whether they want to release a title digitally.

Third party developers will have the option of releasing a game digitally through the eShop, Nintendo of America's Bill Trinen expressed in an interview with 1up.

When asked about Nintendo's initiative about moving forward with digital distribution of titles, Trinen explained that they plan on having both digital and on-retail titles readily available at the launch of the Wii U. While Nintendo has adopted the mentality for their own titles, it is up to the third party developer whether they want to launch a title digitally or not.

Trinen's words on the matter are as follows:

"For third parties... One thing that we don't do is try to force their hand. We don't want to require them to do it. It's really a decision that's up to them, and so it comes down to what their interests are and how they want to offer it."

Even if Nintendo is moving ahead with their digital distribution plans, Trinen also mentioned that the only titles that will not be sold digitally are those that require a peripheral for the game to be enjoyed, such as Nintendo's own Sing Party since it requires a microphone.

Talkback

red14September 16, 2012

Gamecube emulation would be a good reason to buy a Wii U. It's knowing you'll never lose them that appeals to me.

famicomplicatedJames Charlton, Associate Editor (Japan)September 16, 2012

If Sing Party works with any USB mic, why couldn't they sell it on the eShop?
As long as they put a huge disclaimer beforehand "REQUIRES MICROPHONE (SOLD SEPARATELY) PROCEED WITH PURCHASE?" then I can't see it being a problem.


Not that I'd ever buy that game, digital or otherwise, but it'd be pretty cool to have a Rock Band style game sitting on your system ready to booth up quickly at a party.

Greg_HSeptember 16, 2012

Quote from: famicomplicated

If Sing Party works with any USB mic, why couldn't they sell it on the eShop?
As long as they put a huge disclaimer beforehand "REQUIRES MICROPHONE (SOLD SEPARATELY) PROCEED WITH PURCHASE?" then I can't see it being a problem.

Is there a reason why Sing Party doesn't just use the built-in mic on the Wii U GamePad?

famicomplicatedJames Charlton, Associate Editor (Japan)September 17, 2012

Good question!
I mean if the mic on the GamePad is of low quality, won't that mean voice chat will suck?
They should at least give the option.


But my guess is just the form factor - no one wants to hold a tablet and sing into it, it would just be weird at parties!

Got a news tip? Send it in!
Advertisement
Advertisement