A Nintendo 3DS Thread: "By hook or by crook we will play this thing"

[snickothemule]

http://i.imgur.com/4nyM7.png

The 3DS is the brand new handheld by Nintendo, and the first of its kind to sport 3D gaming without the use of 3D glasses, it also has a gyro sensor that interferes with the 3DS immersion but that is another argument entirely. This little thing also sports more powerful hardware than the current range of DS handhelds and can push much prettier visuals as a result. Best yet you have the option of having the 3D turned on or off, so if you don't like melting your brain with the pretty nifty technology you can choose to do so, which is pretty neat.

http://i.imgur.com/yeV6b.jpg

The most important thing to remember is that this is not a revised DS, it is an entirely new system! Which means new pretty new games someday.
While it does sport a similar clamshell design shared by its older brothers, this little unit sports some new trinkets. In addition to the D-Pad there is now a new type of analogue thumb stick, whereas all the other face (A,B, X, Y) and shoulder (L, R) buttons are digital.

The top screen is now quite different, it is now an Autostereoscopic 3.53inch screen running in 800x240 resolution in 3D mode (400x240 for each eye) with a 3.02inch bottom touch screen at 320x240 running in 24bit colour mode. It is not 3D in nature.

There is a front facing 0.3mp camera, and a new dual camera setup on the external side also sporting 0.3mp capable of taking 3D pictures and movies. The whole unit weights230grams and sports 2gb of NAND flash memory. Wi-Fi is used to connect to the internet to gain access to the e-shop to purchase downloadable titles and DLC, it's also used for the streetpass feature. Pretty spunky stuff.

http://i.imgur.com/1ExU3.png (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nintendo_3DS)

The battery is one of great debate, in 3DS games it is reported to last up to 3-5 hours, although realistically it will stay closer to the 3 hour mark. In DS game mode it can last between 5-8 hours, which if you passed elementary school means more than in 3D mode. This is not the be all and end all, for Nyko (http://www.nyko.com/products/product-detail/?name=Charge+Base+for+3DS) have created a power pack which can double the play time for your 3DS, and add extra thickness to the unit which can help with hand cramps.

Streetpass and Spotpass

The new buzzwords for the Wi-Fi capabilities of the console, when the unit is on it will search for hot spots, wireless connections and other 3DS units to enable multiplayer over the Wi-Fi connection or over the internet. This also facilitates the need for access to the e-shop and for downloadable content. The 3DS also features the ability to download content while it is asleep.

Backwards compatibility

The 3DS has the ability to play DS and DSi games, however there is no Gameboy Advance slot which means GBA games can only be played through availability from the e-shop, and this also restricts any games which require the GBA slot for peripherals ie Guitar Hero.

http://i.imgur.com/wXogY.png

Included Software

There are a few pretty nifty things that can be done straight out of the box. To begin with, the 3DS is a fully functional mp3 player and can play any media stored on the SD Card. The system also has full Mii support, where you can import Mii's from the Wii or create new ones, when you come into contact with other 3DS players, the Mii Plaza is a place where your characters will automatically interact, and you can see any other person's Mii avatar at your leisure!

There is also the ARGames, or Augmented Reality Games feature where you can take one of the 6 included AR Cards from the box, place them anywhere in the world, point the camera at it and have fun playing with a character which interacts with everyday objects! If you lose your cards you can print new ones off for yourself. It's like wizardry man.

Netflix will also be making its way to the 3DS, so watching 3D movies on the go is potentially there!

Parental Control and Health Risks

Nintendo has explicit warnings on the box regarding the use of the system by children 6 years and younger, as the 3D nature of the screen can cause vision damage. As a precaution, there are parental controls designed to disable the 3D effect, meaning youngsters can still play the thing with minimised risk.

Adults should also realise that prolonged use of the 3D features can cause eye strain through extended use, with common sense regarding any electronic gaming device it is a good idea to take regular brakes from concentrating on the screen.

For mature rated content that can be accessed through the machine, the parental controls can again limit access for youngsters.

Regions, Security and Pricing

The 3DS is a region locked machine, with America, Japan and Europe/Australia sharing different regions which will restrict the use of imported games. For playing pirated media, Nintendo has stressed that it contains security measures which can render machines useless if it is believed that the console has access to abilities to play pirated media. While there are cards that allow the use of copied DS software, it should be noted that the user takes the risk of bricking the machine for the sake of playing pirated stuff.

The USA has a current SRP of $169.99
Australia has a current SRP of $249
United Kingdon has a current SRP of £149.99

Hardware Revisions

The device came out in February/March 2011 and talk/demand of a 3DS XL is pretty large however Nintendo have not confirmed that they are designing such a device. There are rumors and some "confirmations" that the device will be getting a second nub stick (http://forums.ngemu.com/showpost.php?p=1995723&postcount=70) which when placing the 3DS inside a cradle, the right hand side will sport the second nub and a trigger. Although it seems way too early in the life of the device to undergo a hardware revision, it does seem plausible that a second revision will occur at some point, potentially with a second nub built into the device. The only thing to do with such information is to wait until it is confirmed by the Big N themselves.

Issues

Being a first revision there are a few issues with the machine:
-The screen can get marks and scratches caused by the lower screen coming into contact with it by closing the unit. This means regular cleaning is required, or a screen protector to keep scratches away.
-Scratches and dust will affect the 3D capabilities of the screen.

TL;DR FAQ

So many words.

I get excited about my games man.

Any news on when the 3DS XL version is being released.

There is no current news on revised versions of the console, so you may be waiting quite a while, which may not necessarily be a bad thing.

OMG I bought this thing before the price drop and I feel cheated because at the time I bought something I really really wanted and a bloo bloo bloo.

Whoa whoa whoa slow down there Sally, first off if you really feel cheated, think back to when and why you bought the thing. At the time you were pretty excited for it which is why you bought it right?

Fortunately for you however, Nintendo are running an ambassador program where if you connected to the e-shop or something before the price drop date of August 12, 2011, then you are entitled to 20 games! Some of which have no plan on being released for sale to regular customers. If you are unhappy with the games list, and feel really cheated, then just try and be patient.

I heard something about a one save feature that can't be reset. What's the deal there sonny?

There are a few publishers insistent on fighting the used games market, a part of that is limiting the game card to one save file which cannot be reset by official means. There is an unofficial way to do it for the Pacman/Space Invaders game

This thing doesn't have many games. It's stupid. Nintendo is stupid.

Hold up negative Nancy, it's no secret that the lack of a strong software library is hurting the 3DS image at the moment, there are several great games on the horizon which should improve things, a remake of the legendary Starfox 64,Mario Kart 7, Luigi's Mansion 2, Paper Mario 3D, Resident Evil: Revelations, Super Mario 3D Land, Kid Icarus and plenty more. If you don't like the sound of that then I'm sorry you don't like fun.

I'm 12 and pirate all my games, tell me how to pirate 3DS games.

First off you can't, second emuforums doesn't facilitate the grubby needs of pirates, third GTFO.

iOS master race here, Nintendo should just give up and convert to the church of Apple and release games for it because a roo roo phone games are the best.

Ok sunshine, Nintendo creates and publishes games that go beyond far beyond the quality and scope of the thousands of iOS games available, sure there are a few for that platform that are quite good, but purely touch screen gaming is fickle and panders to the short attention span generation, which is why Angry Birds is so popular, because even stupids can use it. Nintendo is still focused on delivering a portable device which can result in much more engaging and fully fledged games.

If you are uncomfortable with spending $40 on a game, then stick to cheap iOS titles and stop being such a painful human being. There is a market for both dedicated handhelds and mobile phone games so deal with it.

Can this thing be emulated? I have a Pentium 4 at 3.0 GHz will my specs be good enou.....

No this thing is not emulated. No I don't know who, when or if this thing will ever be emulated. If you want to play the games just buy the stupid thing and stop asking stupid questions. Also you should be doing homework.
 
Disclaimer: Some of this information may be incorrect, incomplete, silly, or make no sense. If you see something that you would like added, or think should be fixed, then please let me know and I'll make any adjustments you think are necessary. I just do this for fun and try to keep things light hearted. Also I don't work for Nintendo.

[snickothemule]

What we came here for...GAMES!

At the moment the 3DS library is quite small, in time it will pick up and be pretty darn good so in the mean time this thread is going to try and maintain a list of games which are worth playing.

3DS Games

http://i.imgur.com/ODSHE.jpg http://i.imgur.com/yJgu1.jpg http://i.imgur.com/upvlm.jpg http://i.imgur.com/gUsVM.jpg http://i.imgur.com/ATwRM.jpg http://i.imgur.com/VeBcy.jpg http://i.imgur.com/JLO9O.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/IO3Q2.jpg

DS Games worth a look

http://i.imgur.com/3w8dA.jpg http://i.imgur.com/6SiAg.jpg http://i.imgur.com/mqo2I.jpg http://i.imgur.com/ZrcOS.jpg http://i.imgur.com/qnGvY.jpg http://i.imgur.com/SXPAA.jpg http://i.imgur.com/JgNGi.jpg http://i.imgur.com/2nzuS.jpg http://i.imgur.com/bawBV.jpg http://i.imgur.com/XZN4d.jpg http://i.imgur.com/yuFax.jpg http://i.imgur.com/ArTuA.jpg http://i.imgur.com/kOhvh.jpg http://i.imgur.com/yQGTn.jpg http://i.imgur.com/2aQPV.jpg http://i.imgur.com/TNu1v.jpg http://i.imgur.com/aVcqU.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/dQ3Uh.jpg

Upcoming 3DS Games

http://i.imgur.com/DTXoJ.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/qyCHI.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/ERuRJ.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/7FeCU.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/VPZF9.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/ObqW0.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/ZYkRY.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/vDx77.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/dGfk7.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/dJ0XT.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/qktEa.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/RtKs5.jpg

[redlofredlof]

what kind of video formats can it play?
does the lower screen turn off when playing video?
does it even play videos?
does its browser have flash?
what is he processor speed?
can it be hacked like the psp 3k and pspGo

[ViperXtreme]

the net browser is pretty decent (after update last june) no flash support tho, registered to the ambassador program (free 20 games), 3D effect in SSF4 is okay, but framerate is not as good as the higher end brothers, but gameplay is still intact (and has macros in the touchscreen). The Augmented Reality cards are interesting along with the included games in it (the one you capture faces and shoot the hell out of em in 3D and using the motion sensor lol)

[ElijahTW]

Man, you Aussies sure get ripped off. You're paying $260USD right now. 0_o

[Cheesus]

While I've lost interest in the portable gaming market, at least now I've got all my facts straight about the device.

This post makes reading NGemu still worth it. Fantastic bit of dedication Snicko - Well written, and comical content. If tagging makes any difference to search engine results, tag this thing to infinity. NGEmu will get a well needed boost in hits.

[Radix865]

So Snick, how much is nintendo paying you for advertising it?:p

But anyways, the only reason I might get it would be that there are some jrpg's for it I might like to try... But meh.

[runawayprisoner]

The only title that excites me is Metal Gear Solid Snake Eater 3D...

Like honestly. And we're counting those at the tips of our fingers.

I think Nintendo would do better with sales if it was $129.99...

[Yeloazndevil]

what kind of video formats can it play?
does the lower screen turn off when playing video?
does it even play videos?
does its browser have flash?
what is he processor speed?
can it be hacked like the psp 3k and pspGo

video formats? none, you can't play your own video files on 3ds
the lower screen dims when its not in use
videos? nope, but it can play video dl'ed from the eshop and it has a netflix app
no flash, never going to happen
3DS has 2 ARM11 A7 at 233 mhz each, Nintendo variation so who knows what Nintendo has done to them. Gpu is 133MHz DMP PICA220 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PICA200)
No, the 3ds games have aes encryption which is near impossible to break.

Ambarella made the ARM 11 A7 and it does have h264 support so I suppose 3ds could have .mp4 support later on. Netflix and eshop videos could be h264.

[Hard core Rikki]

Did Nintendo pay you in stock or dufflebags?

The current 3DS lineup doesnt look very compelling . The recent significant price drop makes skipping this generation for the DS difficult.
Any working flash carts for 3DS available so far?

[Yeloazndevil]

DSi flashcarts work on 3ds if u keep them updated, but no 3ds flashcart.

acekard 2i, supercard ds2, r4i gold are the popular ones that work on 3ds you just need to keep them updated. for these its best to wait for flashcard updates when a new dsi/3ds fimware update comes out, if u update the 3ds first without flashing a new update to the flash cart you will need a low firmware dsi or a ds lite or phat.

[SCHUMI_4EVER]

The 3DS is in a tricky place at the moment. One the one hand it can push the 3D gimmick but this limits the titles and gameplay it can offer...and on the other hand games could be released in good old 2D but that would make it look like just another DS refresh not offering much new (and the massive DS library that completely overshadows DS3 games at the moment support this view).

[Yeloazndevil]

actually Nintendo is backing away from 3D a bit, its not a requirement to have 3D. Not really a DS refresh since it doesn't have **** horrible graphics at a stamp sized resolution and technically DSi was the DS refresh not in terms of hardware but in terms of DSi exclusive features.

[verboten999]

I'm gonna wait until at least next year to buy this. Planning on purchasing one, yes. Ocarina of Time alone is good enough reason.

[koko]

The only title that excites me is Metal Gear Solid Snake Eater 3D...
Because of 3D feature?

3DS version:
http://images.vg247.com/current//2011/08/20110818snakeeater3d03.jpg

PS2:
http://image.gamespotcdn.net/gamespot/images/2004/reviews/914828_20040820_790screen012.jpg

blurred textures are blurred

[niku]

i dont know anything about 3ds games so can anyone tell me. are the games same as psp?

[SCHUMI_4EVER]

What sort of stupid question is that niku? They're obviously not the same...they render on two screens afterall....and the PSP doesn't have the 3D effect...

[Radix865]

Because of 3D feature?

3DS version:
http://images.vg247.com/current//2011/08/20110818snakeeater3d03.jpg

PS2:
http://image.gamespotcdn.net/gamespot/images/2004/reviews/914828_20040820_790screen012.jpg

blurred textures are blurred

I've always tought they use the blur to hide the edges... It makes it look softer, the 3ds version looks like you could cut steel with those edges!:lol:

i dont know anything about 3ds games so can anyone tell me. are the games same as psp?

What sort of stupid question is that niku? They're obviously not the same...they render on two screens afterall....and the PSP doesn't have the 3D effect...

I think Niku means to ask that are the games are on the same level as PSP games, like graphics and stuff... And to answer that, as far as I know, they're either better or about the same(excluding having two screens and 3D, which I don't give a flying f**k...). Although I think the tech specs are better in the 3DS itself, the games so far don't look that much different. But I think that's just the new console effect and they'll start looking better after the programmers learn their stuff with it...

Otherwise, the game selection is pretty different... It is nintendo we're talking about here after all.

[Kaiser Sigma]

What we came here for...GAMES!

At the moment the 3DS library is quite small, in time it will pick up and be pretty darn good so in the mean time this thread is going to try and maintain a list of games which are worth playing.

3DS Games

http://i.imgur.com/ODSHE.jpg http://i.imgur.com/yJgu1.jpg http://i.imgur.com/upvlm.jpg http://i.imgur.com/gUsVM.jpg http://i.imgur.com/ATwRM.jpg http://i.imgur.com/VeBcy.jpg http://i.imgur.com/JLO9O.jpg



Mercenaries is most definitely not worth playing. You are paying full price for a bonus game that came for free on RE2 / RE3. It's fun, sure but unless they sell it to you for 10 ~ 15 bucks it's not worth playing at all. It's so short it's not even funny~.

[Yeloazndevil]

Mercenaries is most definitely not worth playing. You are paying full price for a bonus game that came for free on RE2 / RE3. It's fun, sure but unless they sell it to you for 10 ~ 15 bucks it's not worth playing at all. It's so short it's not even funny~.

its more like a bonus game that came with RE4/5 since it plays exactly like 4/5

[runawayprisoner]

Because of 3D feature?

3DS version:
http://images.vg247.com/current//2011/08/20110818snakeeater3d03.jpg

PS2:
http://image.gamespotcdn.net/gamespot/images/2004/reviews/914828_20040820_790screen012.jpg

blurred textures are blurred

On a screen so small, it could be blurrier and it wouldn't make much of a difference. :)

3D, portable, and Metal Gear are the reason. I'm a Metal Gear fanboy where the game is concerned. Though shame on me for not finishing Peace Walker...

Interesting tid bit: I started liking A**** computers because of the A**** references in all of the Metal Gear games. I was... curious, until I started using those myself.

[Dynamo]

Looks like Japan is buying the new price. ;)

Week of 13th August 2011 3DS : 314,309
Americas
57,845

Japan
206,155

EMEAA
50,309

[JohnJack]

Interesting. Where are you getting those figures from? What were the sales figures before the price drop?

[Dynamo]

Interesting. Where are you getting those figures from? What were the sales figures before the price drop?

vgchartz

The ps2 outsold 3DS week to week before the price drop. :lol: If they didn't do something this was going to be a huge failure.

And to answer that, as far as I know, they're either better or about the same(excluding having two screens and 3D, which I don't give a flying f**k...). Although I think the tech specs are better in the 3DS itself, the games so far don't look that much different. But I think that's just the new console effect and they'll start looking better after the programmers learn their stuff with it...


Yeah, 3DS would have to get the edge in this.. Overall has the power. I think much of the power was just for the 3D though, running without that I assume you have similar image quality due to resolution, etc. The PSP has some lag in a few spots on certain games, doubt the 3DS would have the same issue and overall the 3DS should be able to handle much more going on.

[Yeloazndevil]

Japan August 8-14
3DS 196,077
PSP 40,389
PS3 20,239
Wii 19,607
DSi LL 4,213
DSi 3,531
Xbox 360 1,576
PS2 1,513
DS Lite 90
PSP go 20

Source: Media Create (http://www.m-create.com/ranking/)

[koko]

Nintendo has some major changes up its sleeve for the 3DS, according to a new report. Those include the release of a second analog stick attachment for the current system and a revamped version of the handheld, reports French website 01net.

An anonymous source that supposedly works within Nintendo delivered the news to the site, which previously had information about the Vita and Wii U prior to their respective announcements. According to a translation by NeoGAF, Nintendo feels it made a mistake in leaving out a second analog stick (or circle pad, as the case may be). As such, it is reportedly now working on a separate device that connects to the right side of the system and is sold for about $10.

That presents a number of questions like how would it connect and if the system can close with it attached. (You'd also have to worry about your finger slipping off and hitting the Power button.) It's possible this bit is outright wrong or simply being misinterpreted; the attachment could be solely for the benefit of developers working to create games for a new version of the 3DS.

The report states a new 3DS is being readied for release next year which will not push 3D as hard as the current 3DS does. It may include a new name and/or redesign, and although it's not specifically mentioned, it would presumably have that second analog stick. It's suggested that the current price drop could be a way to clear out stock in an effort to make way for the new version of 3DS. Nintendo's explanation for the price drop is to ensure there is a large enough install base for it and third parties to sell games to.

Another claim is that 3DS development kits are still extremely difficult to come by and cost a great deal of money. Wait lists for them are supposedly becoming longer and longer which, if true, wouldn't please 3DS owners who are busy waiting for new 3DS games actually worth playing.

This all seems somewhat hard to believe, and it's not as if 01net hasn't gotten things wrong in the past -- it suggested the Vita's RAM had been cut in half, something we recently learned is not true. Nintendo has, as the report points out, expressed some interest in making games that don't feature 3D support, 3D does seem to be somewhat de-emphasized as of late, and sales haven't been up to expectations thus far. But that hardly means it's about to rebrand the entire system so soon after launch, particularly when the price cut, the upcoming games (Super Mario 3D Land and Mario Kart 7, namely), and the holiday shopping season could all result in a big sales boost that turns things completely around.
http://www.1up.com/news/rebranded-3ds-decreased-emphasis-3d-second-analog-stick-coming-12

[Yeloazndevil]

how the hell would that work...where would it even plug in? unless its wireless. yea I don't believe this at all, Nintendo isn't stupid to release a new handheld or redesign so soon.

[ElijahTW]

unless its wireless.

And who the hell wants to charge a thumbstick?

[Gladiator@]

- Nintendo is looking into adding another circle pad to the 3DS
- unclear if this will be a new model or something to adapt to the current model
- Nintendo is working on games for two circle pads
- Nintendo is working on a platform where 3D is not the focus
- unclear whether this is a new version of the 3DS or a new portable altogether


http://www.opoliglota.com.br/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/wii-u-crop.jpg

;)

[Noja87]

http://www.destructoid.com/rumor-3ds-getting-major-overhaul-second-circle-pad-209648.phtml

Didnt meet expectations.

[Kaiser Sigma]

What a major screw up; not as bad as the Virtual Boy but close~.

[Linktothepast]

Most parents that buy portable consoles will look away because of the 3d which is bad for a kid's eyes, it is as simple as that imo why the sales don't meet the expectations.

[Dynamo]

I think the price cut itself will save it from being a total disaster.. That article seems a bit odd about the redesign, maybe just gauging reaction for something like that being a possibility or just confusion with things being worked on for Wii U. It's not smart to do a drastic price cut and without seeing how that goes, do a redesign... And all that without a first party lineup of games yet.

[Kaiser Sigma]

Most parents that buy portable consoles will look away because of the 3d which is bad for a kid's eyes, it is as simple as that imo why the sales don't meet the expectations.

Adults buy handheld systems too. The 3DS has a terribad lineup. Ergo people don't buy the 3DS, it's got nothing to do with the 3D component (though lol if Nintendo stays away from the 3D in the future). It's simple as that. I like how some fools ran to buy one because it's cheaper, cheaper system won't magically produce quality titles for you to play on which means that unless some great games come out soon expect the 3DS to be falling on sales again in a couple of months~.

[Dynamo]

That's true but that could also be a reason, not many devs want to make a game for a system with no install base. Who going to buy their game? Nintendo should have came out of the gate with some first party games.

[SCHUMI_4EVER]

Adults buy handheld systems too. The 3DS has a terribad lineup. Ergo people don't buy the 3DS, it's got nothing to do with the 3D component (though lol if Nintendo stays away from the 3D in the future). It's simple as that. I like how some fools ran to buy one because it's cheaper, cheaper system won't magically produce quality titles for you to play on which means that unless some great games come out soon expect the 3DS to be falling on sales again in a couple of months~.

Well they weren't necessarily fools for running off and buying it now that it's cheaper. I mean for most people their original DS/DSLite/DSi/DS XL will be going on 3 or so years so issues might be popping up and so on. Now they could just go and get another DS but why when for just a little more they have support for a whole new set of games (hopefully...if the 3DS ever gets more than 10 games of it's own). Basically I don't think it's fair to class all those increased sales as hopeful adopters since the chance for a simple upgrade replacement also exists. AND if you didn't jump on the DS bandwagon yet there's a massive library to catch up on whilst you wait for the 3DS to hopefully get some games.

[Lasnap]

A small number of DS games wont work because they require use of the GBA slot for hardware like Guitar Hero for instance. So those arent playable on the 3DS but there is still a great number of games as SCHUMI pointed out that are playable. If I wasnt having such fun with my PSP and the number of emulators I have on it I would think about buying a 3DS at its current price just so I could catch up on a number of RPGS that are on the DS along with only 1 game for the 3DS and some of the upcoming RPGS like Kingdom Hearts 3D as it isnt a prequel its a sequel to the second one. As for adding a second stick that would be a good thing as it gives us another way to do old N64 games as it adds a way for us to access the c buttons like the gamecube controller does it so we dont have to use the touchscreen for it.

[Linktothepast]

Adults buy handheld systems too. The 3DS has a terribad lineup. Ergo people don't buy the 3DS, it's got nothing to do with the 3D component (though lol if Nintendo stays away from the 3D in the future). It's simple as that. I like how some fools ran to buy one because it's cheaper, cheaper system won't magically produce quality titles for you to play on which means that unless some great games come out soon expect the 3DS to be falling on sales again in a couple of months~.

Well my point wasn't that adults don't buy it for themselves, but that they don't buy it for their kids ;). And that is not an insignificant portion of the market at all which can explain the bad sales. Although i don't have a kid, if i did i wouldn't buy one for that reason either.

[Exodus]

Most parents that buy portable consoles will look away because of the 3d which is bad for a kid's eyes, it is as simple as that imo why the sales don't meet the expectations.

Nah. Parents wouldn't put that much research into something that their brats are asking for repeatedly.

[ElijahTW]

Nah. Parents wouldn't put that much research into something that their brats are asking for repeatedly.

And the people I know with kids haven't mentioned anything about their brats asking for the 3DS.

My Uncle's brats are always talking to be about how much they want game (x), or system (y) but they haven't mentioned a thing about the 3DS.

In fact, there are a large number of people that still don't know the 3DS even exists. Furthermore, it would seem many average consumers think 3DS = Updated Nintendo DS (like the lite or whatever) instead of a new exciting system.

Marketing Fail.

[Exodus]

Maybe Nintendo knew there was no game library for it, so they're holding off with the marketing...? But I think I saw enough marketing for it.

[ElijahTW]

Maybe Nintendo knew there was no game library for it, so they're holding off with the marketing...? But I think I saw enough marketing for it.

There is a difference between marketing and marketing that has an impact. I've seen a million advertisements that have had no impact on me.

[snickothemule]

Hold on to your butts;

Identity crisis is one of Nintendo's biggest issues at the moment, the 3DS is really struggling due to lack of software, and without much info being pushed out by them with upcoming software they really don't stand much of a chance to give themselves a good look.

Their online shop is also a darn mess, they keep uploading one game every thursday and it is always some stupid game that not very many people will care about. Urban Champion? Know your audience bosses of nintendo, that game was rather poor when it first came out and it is still rather poor today. Of the titles available only a couple are worth a look, Kirby's Dream Land, Super Mario Land, Links Awakening DX, but apart from that, we get Tennis.

The shop itself is a downright mess to navigate too, each item is shown with one big icon and they are all on one row, so it takes forever to scroll through titles, even if there are only a few on there, and with so many sub menu's, the whole thing is just sloppy to navigate.

Now with the rumour mill sprouting news about a new redesign of the console, what's the blolody point? The only thing they need to redesign is their approach to software friendliness and releasing titles on the e-shop that people can give a crap about. They really need to consider releasing some classic SNES titles on there too, Terranigma, Yoshi's Island, Secret of Mana, Earthbound, Super Star Wars, stuff that is really good to play, and stuff that will sell again.

Sure you can get the same stuff from an emulator, but when Nintendo are determined to give us Tennis in lieu of the phenomenal software cataogue they have available, it really shouldn't be too hard for them to generate interest.

I see the same issues happening with the WiiU as well, the name doesn't inspire any sort of interest from the demographic that they already generated with the Wii, as people will look at that machine and ask, "why do I have to buy that when I already have the Wii Sports?". Sounds stupid I know, but there are so many people who bought the wii purely for the wii sports game.

If they call it the Super Wii, and advertise that this thing can do far more than the previous Wii, give it some distinction from the previous product then they won't cause any confusion. I've lost count of how many times people have ignorantly stated that the 3DS is just another rehash of the DS with the same hardware, and this is Nintendo's biggest issue they have with reaching their audience and new audiences, is that the distinction between this and the previous machine is so blurred and confusing for someone who won't pay attention to what's going on, the consumer will lose interest and will not buy the bloody thing.

The stuff they do show however is also really poor, just people living in ultra modern, clean housing, with wholesome **** eating grins on their faces with a few shots of a game they are playing, really vague, dippy and uninformative. Back in the 90's, you'd blast the viewer in the face with a roundhouse kick, an explosion, a whole bunch of sharply cutted footage from the game in question and a few reaction shots of the consumer playing the device, it generated excitement and interest.

Now I just hate the people in the advertisements because they are too smug and I don't care for the product they have to offer.

The other thing they have to do is to just get software title numbers up, when your competing in the mobile gaming market, Apple have managed to force their way in with sheer number of games which are in the thousands now, and its those kinds of numbers that gets people's attention. It doesn't matter that 975 of those games are complete poo, or have about 5 minutes of playability to them, but none the less there are so many games available that it becomes a selling point of the system. If you are able to open up the e-shop a little bit, allow indie developers to create titles for the e-shop, sell it for a buck or two and you'll get more interest once again. Set up a division for quality control and your set.

It's such a drat shame, because Nintendo have all this potential at their fingertips and they are squandering it with poor decisions and focusing too hard on confusing the demographic rather than putting forward a clear product line that people want.

I know this is a lot of words to I'll try to TL;DR it a bit:

-Clearly differentiate the 3DS from the DS, make it it's own identity, same with the WiiU (****s sake call it the Super Wii like a boss and end confusion).

-Fix the software side of things and get the e-shop friendly.

-Release games on the e-shop that are in demand, not Tennis. Fully utilise the library you guys have.

-Advertise the product, not happy people wearing white pants gurning at the TV. I don't want to buy them.

-Focus on delivering software that people want, include Facebook, Twitter and open up the shop for smaller apps that low attention span consumers can get behind and diversify the software library and price i.e games from $1 to the $40 big titles to appease the wide audience range.

[Gladiator@]

Those rumors are bs, guys. Come on.

Japan - Nintendo holding big 3DS-related event on Sept. 13th, big game announcement coming

- Nintendo to hold 3DS-related event in Japan
- due to take place on September 13th
- announcement to coincide with event
- extremely big title planned
- Nintendo stock managed to reach 9.7% above yesterday's level, due to talk of this event

Nintendo knows how to play this game better than anyone else. Now they show 5 seconds of Super Smash Bros. 3DS and it's all good again...

[Kaiser Sigma]

Nintendo knows how to play this game better than anyone else. Now they show 5 seconds of Super Smash Bros. 3DS and it's all good again...

Clearly not, considering just how poorly the 3DS is doing. Moreover, seeing as how the operation Rainfall (I think that's what it was called) failed miserably at convincing them to bring Wii RPGs to the West market I really wonder if they really know how to "play this game"~.

While I do believe that the rumors are exaggerated the thing about a second stick has been always a demand of the market, it's something the PSP suffered from and there's no reason people didn't have the same want from the 3DS~.

I do find laughable that you think one game could save the system though. I guess I wasn't so mistaken when I said some people are fools enough to run to buy a system solely based on price drop~.

[Yeloazndevil]

nintendo is still selling 100k+ 3ds in japan each week so much of a failure, they just need to get games out.

[Exodus]

There is a difference between marketing and marketing that has an impact. I've seen a million advertisements that have had no impact on me.
Oh, well I shut it down because I have no strong interest in handhelds nor 3D gimmicks. So maybe you're right.

[StriderVM]

The 3DS is a suitable replace for the NDS XL. Sorta. :P

That's the primary reason I might be buying one, to replace the NDS that got stolen on me. :(

[Gladiator@]

Clearly not, considering just how poorly the 3DS is doing. Moreover, seeing as how the operation Rainfall (I think that's what it was called) failed miserably at convincing them to bring Wii RPGs to the West market I really wonder if they really know how to "play this game"~.

That decision was made by Nintendo of America. All 3 games that the fans demanded with the Operation Rainfall have since been confirmed for Europe. So it didn't "fail miserably" and the problem isn't with Nintendo Co., it's with Nintendo of America.

While I do believe that the rumors are exaggerated the thing about a second stick has been always a demand of the market, it's something the PSP suffered from and there's no reason people didn't have the same want from the 3DS~.

The PSP doens't have a touch screen. Nintendo has already stated that they tested 2 analog sticks for the 3DS during development, but they made the decision to go with only one because they believe the touch screen can be used to control the camera instead of the stick.

I do find laughable that you think one game could save the system though. I guess I wasn't so mistaken when I said some people are fools enough to run to buy a system solely based on price drop~.

Please, don't put words in my mouth~.

I never said one game (even if the game is Super Smash Bros.) could save anything, even as I don't think the 3DS need to be saved.

What I meant is that everybody will love the 3DS and forget the rest once they see a game like Super Smash Bros. being announced for it. Just wait and see.

Also, Nintendo gave a chance for third-parties to make money with the 3DS, since they are always complaining that only Nintendo games sell on Nintendo platforms. Nintendo gave a 6 months window period for them to release good games without many big Nintendo games to compete with. They didn't take the chance.

Now the holidays will bring Mario and company and we will see what happens.

[Kaiser Sigma]

That decision was made by Nintendo of America. All 3 games that the fans demanded with the Operation Rainfall have since been confirmed for Europe. So it didn't "fail miserably" and the problem isn't with Nintendo Co., it's with Nintendo of America.

Nintendo of America is a part of Nintendo. If the former declares that they won't sell 3DSs in America anymore until games come out for it, Nintendo Co. will *****slap them. They are a company as a whole. Operation Rainfall failed, period. Else you'd be able to play those three games in America in a foreseeable future. Can you? No? Then it failed~.

The PSP doens't have a touch screen. Nintendo has already stated that they tested 2 analog sticks for the 3DS during development, but they made the decision to go with only one because they believe the touch screen can be used to control the camera instead of the stick.

A touch screen will never be remotely close to the feeling of an analog stick. If that'd be the case then the gaming market for phone devices would see games of actual worth rather than taken-straight-out-of-Facebook games (obviously, this is a gross exaggeration). Never will a touch screen replace the feeling of a stick~.

What I meant is that everybody will love the 3DS and forget the rest once they see a game like Super Smash Bros. being announced for it. Just wait and see.

How is this not putting weight on one game alone~?

Also, Nintendo gave a chance for third-parties to make money with the 3DS, since they are always complaining that only Nintendo games sell on Nintendo platforms. Nintendo gave a 6 months window period for them to release good games without many big Nintendo games to compete with. They didn't take the chance.

Nintendo didn't "give any chances" to anyone. Nintendo rushed the release before the 3DS could have a decent lineup. It's got nothing to do with thinking about others, they just wanted to get a head start on the (at that time) potential PSP2~.

[@ruantec]

nintendo is still selling 100k+ 3ds in japan each week so much of a failure, they just need to get games out.

That's a nice amount of units to say the least... taking in mind the problem they have right now over there after what happened recently...

the 3DS seems to be a great device and i will probably purchace one but just as you mentioned it needs to get some nice games out. in my opinion it could repeat the story and destroy Vita as the DS did to the PSP. however i have a problem with the whole 3D stuff and the other day i checked a 3DS and my eyes burn each time i watched Zelda in 3D so i had to turn of the 3D to be able to watch the screen.

[Dynamo]

How is this not putting weight on one game alone~?


He did say "like". Look at the Wii, all it had was first party titles and was the best selling system. (other than gimmicks like wii fit) All it took to sell 80 million Wii's was a few real Nintendo games.

America numbers:

3DS 105,016
360 75,244
PS3 64,196
Wii 51,851
DS 51,368
PSP 23,977

The price cut isn't doing that much here because of the lack of games at this point, like you said. Once they get a few good games out it shouldn't be a problem. Games like Super Smash Bros. and the new MarioKart will start much better numbers of the West and Europe. Not sure how they made this mistake in the first place, I guess they were overconfident in third party devs.. A mistake they should be careful not to repeat with the Wii U.

[Noja87]

http://kotaku.com/5834617/more-3ds-games-delayed-because-nobody-bought-a-3ds

[Xblade]

Nintendo seriously should of waited until next year to launch the 3ds.


Its a repeat of the psp.

[Xblade]

Not sure how they made this mistake in the first place, I guess they were overconfident in third party devs.. A mistake they should be careful not to repeat with the Wii U.

Nintendo made it pretty clear that they couldn't give two ****s about 3rd party devs with the wii.

[Kaiser Sigma]

He did say "like". Look at the Wii, all it had was first party titles and was the best selling system. (other than gimmicks like wii fit) All it took to sell 80 million Wii's was a few real Nintendo games.

He said "a game like". "a". That alludes to only one (1) game. If what you meant is "games like" as in, plural, then yeah, I'd agree~.

Nintendo seriously should of waited until next year to launch the 3ds.

Its a repeat of the psp.

No, it's actually worse. Sony is just a company trying to profit, they got no first party talent to develop games worth a damn. Nintendo does. Nintendo could've and should've released at least 5 first party titles of quality like the Zelda and Start Fox ports along with Mario Kart and Mario Land. Instead you got Pilotwings which was terrible and Nintendogs which is...not a game? There's no excuse for a first party developer to release a system without flagship titles of their own. Sega was probably one of the worst companies ever when it came to decisions but God, they released enough games with the Dreamcast instead of waiting for third party support to come to the rescue~.

[Dynamo]

He said "a game like". "a". That alludes to only one (1) game. If what you meant is "games like" as in, plural, then yeah, I'd agree~.


Yeah, but one game is where it needs to start... And it needs to be a game like that. (Any new big name Nintendo title will do)

Nintendo made it pretty clear that they couldn't give two ****s about 3rd party devs with the wii.

Yeah I agree with the Wii. With the 3DS and Wii U they spent most of their presentation time about how third party support was going to be a much bigger thing this generation for Nintendo. Soon after that most of those devs canceled their 3DS games. :lol:

[Yeloazndevil]

Yeah I agree with the Wii. With the 3DS and Wii U they spent most of their presentation time about how third party support was going to be a much bigger thing this generation for Nintendo. Soon after that most of those devs canceled their 3DS games. :lol:

the delayed 3ds games outweigh the cancelled 3ds games btw :p

the amount of cancelled 3ds games is around 12 and most of those games no one really gives a **** about.

[Xblade]

No, it's actually worse. Sony is just a company trying to profit, they got no first party talent to develop games worth a damn. Nintendo does. Nintendo could've and should've released at least 5 first party titles of quality like the Zelda and Start Fox ports along with Mario Kart and Mario Land. Instead you got Pilotwings which was terrible and Nintendogs which is...not a game? There's no excuse for a first party developer to release a system without flagship titles of their own. Sega was probably one of the worst companies ever when it came to decisions but God, they released enough games with the Dreamcast instead of waiting for third party support to come to the rescue~.
*Ahem*

http://thegameraccess.com/images/uncharted2-hero.jpg
http://www.hotbloodedgaming.com/wp-content/uploads/Infamous2-header.jpg
http://cache.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/9/2010/06/killzone_3_wasp.jpg
http://media.giantbomb.com/uploads/0/1840/236437-littlebigplanet_screenshot_63_super.jpg
http://uk.playstation.com/media/98806/resistance2_hero.jpg

I know these games aren't more Mario or Ocarina of time rehashes(I say that as meanly as possibly acknowledging even I eat up those rehashes), these devs are definitely talented...and there games are worth a damn.

[koko]

indeed. At least Sony's studios create new IPs. And they usually receive universal critical acclaim.

[Exodus]

I know these games aren't more Mario or Ocarina of time rehashes
Damn right. Games for adults.

[Kaiser Sigma]

*Ahem*

I know these games aren't more Mario or Ocarina of time rehashes(I say that as meanly as possibly acknowledging even I eat up those rehashes), these devs are definitely talented...and there games are worth a damn.

Some of those franchises didn't exist at the time of the PSP release though. Resistance, Infamous, Uncharted all came after 2k5. When Sony released the PSP what first party titles could've they offered? Of course the history is different for the PSP Vita since they do have a solid lineup of first party franchises; though whether they exploit them or not is just up to them~.

[SCHUMI_4EVER]

Sony also doesn't seem to dev anywhere near as much stuff as Nintendo does...if they dev anything at all.
Sony doesn't really create more IPs, they cheat, they wait for studios to create successful IPs exclusive (or at at leas at first appearing on) their devices and then they glomp on to the studio.

[Exodus]

Maybe Sony doesn't feel the need to since their systems bring in strong 3rd party support, whereas Nintendo's consoles in the past 15 years...

[SCHUMI_4EVER]

You may not like it but the DS has had more than enough 3rd party support.

[Xblade]

The ds was very cheap to make games for in comparison to the psp. Nintendo lost that advantage by giving the 3ds modern specs.

[Exodus]

The ds was very cheap to make games for in comparison to the psp. Nintendo lost that advantage by giving the 3ds modern specs.
Indeed. NDS is a different situation. N64, GC, Wii... all weaker consoles in a market that's been primarily about graphics.

[Dynamo]

Sony also doesn't seem to dev anywhere near as much stuff as Nintendo does...if they dev anything at all.
Sony doesn't really create more IPs, they cheat, they wait for studios to create successful IPs exclusive (or at at leas at first appearing on) their devices and then they glomp on to the studio.

True, but at least they do that much. MS does the same thing except worse. Lionhead and Bungie for example, but Bungie has separated itself from MS now and Halo is now owned and developed under 343i from MS.

[Gladiator@]

http://www.gonintendo.com/content/uploads/images/Aug2011/Screen%20Shot%202011-09-05%20at%208_59_13%20PM.png

Mach Rider sounds awesome and I don't even need to say anything about Monster Hunter and Baten Kaitos, they're always good.

[snickothemule]

NUB CRADLE!

http://www.destructoid.com/rumor-monster-hunter-tri-3g-and-2nd-analog-nub-for-3ds-210760.phtml

http://s1.proxy03.twitpic.com/photos/large/391680324.jpg

It looks like Famitsu has ousted that the 3DS will be getting a nub cradle for Monster Hunter (Tri). Although it looks a little awkward with the second nub sticking out the side, it does look as if it thickens the base of the machine for more a more comfortable experience. Cramping is the one thing that irritates me about the 3DS so to have this little cradle thing is kinda neat. Personally I would have liked to see another nub on the far left as well along with a more comfortable trigger button, this would also give some balance to the cradle, but I suppose this will still do the job.

Still, Nintendo could have done this during their initial designing phase, instead we get this 7 months after its initial release date. Guess that's what happens when you have to meet investor demands.

[koko]

Looks good but not for mobilers.

[Kaiser Sigma]

Honestly, that looks hideous. The moment you start adding peripherals to a handheld you are already increasing size / bulk which goes against the reason why you chose the handheld in the first place~.

[Yeloazndevil]

I don't buy a handheld for it to be small since I never take a handheld outside of my house. Not an issue for me

[Gladiator@]

The 3DS Conference 2011 will start within 38 minutes.

"#IwataSays just finished last rehearsal. Mr. Miyamoto making last min. changes just like when he’s making games. #3DSconf2011" - NoA's Twitter

http://www.nintendo.co.jp/n10/conference2011/index.html

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/nintendo3dsconference2011

[Noja87]

Culdcept looks interesting. Fatal Frame 3ds and Fire Emblem got me pumped.

EDIT: Okay Monster Hunter 4 got me quite hard. I cant believe some of this ideas i had to make MH more fresh and exciting are being implemented. The more open environments, the chase scenes, more interaction with the environments and the better feel of being hunter! Too bad they are still refusing to make a big console one.

[Gladiator@]

Mario Tennis, Fire Emblem (with coop multiplayer), Bravely Default, Monster Hunter 3G and Monster Hunter 4. :O

BTW, Zelda - Skyward Sword looks amazing. =]