The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Breath of the Wild's Timeline Placement Is Confirmed, But Does It Matter?

YouTuber AwesomeFaceProd has a new Zelda video discussing the new revelations about the Breath of the Wild timeline. Spoiler alert it doesn't make much sense but then again, neither does the Zelda timeline in general. Some games DO line up such as Ocarina of Time and Majora's Mask but some are really alone in the timeline. There was an attempt to make sense of all of it in Hyrule Histora but the video seems to suggest Nintendo changes the timeline making things in that book no longer relevant.

Breath of The Wild on The Gameboy Color

What if The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild launched in the ‘90s on the Game Boy Color?

If Nintendo released a Gameboy Color demake of Breath of the Wild i'd buy it immediately and even if it doesn't come to be (it won't) it's still fun to think about.

Got A New Nintendo Switch? Metal Jesus Reviews Switch Accessories

If you recently got a new Nintendo Switch for the holidays you might want to pick up a few accessories for it. One of my favorite gaming YouTubers Metal Jesus recently created a video showcasing the gear he has for his Switch where he outlines the good and the bad. Apparently the picking up an official Switch dock costs $99? That's a lot but it seems like that was the best option he found.

If you are a Switch owner what are some of the things you picked up for it?

The Switch Gets Native Video Recording

In the latest update for the Switch Nintendo added the ability to natively record in game 30 second video clips. This is a nice feature to share brief moments of games you play with friends but doesn't seem like a full solution for people that do game streaming. Still, I bet this will cover most peoples usecases for sharing fun moments with friends on Twitter or Facebook!

"Nintendo Switch system version 4.0.0 or later allows you to capture and share up to 30 seconds of gameplay on select games to your Facebook page and Twitter feed with the push of a button!"

https://www.nintendo.com/switch/system-update/

Breath of the Wild Wii U

GregoPeck gives this game an astounding "Must Play" on the Ghost Scale

This game achieves something special, and it would be a shame to miss it.

GregoPeck gives this game a "Must Play" on the Ghost Scale

This game achieves something special, and it would be a shame to miss it.

I’ve been looking forward to Breath of the Wild for years now, although it didn’t have an official title for a while. I was expecting a new Zelda game for the Wii U. We even had video of it and learned that it would be an open world game. I remember seeing Link in mid-air with time nearly frozen, in which he shoots an enemy with an arrow. I thought that looked cool. The game got delayed and a bit of an evolution by the end of it’s development. That evolution was the Switch.

I was interested in the Switch, but more more interested in BotW. I decided to buy the Wii U version of the game, instead of spending over $300 for a new system. At first, I assumed the lesser... Read All I’ve been looking forward to Breath of the Wild for years now, although it didn’t have an official title for a while. I was expecting a new Zelda game for the Wii U. We even had video of it and learned that it would be an open world game. I remember seeing Link in mid-air with time nearly frozen, in which he shoots an enemy with an arrow. I thought that looked cool. The game got delayed and a bit of an evolution by the end of it’s development. That evolution was the Switch.

I was interested in the Switch, but more more interested in BotW. I decided to buy the Wii U version of the game, instead of spending over $300 for a new system. At first, I assumed the lesser console (Wii U) version would suffer, but in this case it actually looks like the Switch version has some framerate issues. The game has been patched and I believe Nintendo has been working to resolve technical issues.

I didn’t hesitate to pre-order BotW, once I decided which version to get, but I did hesitate to play it. I bought the game for my son as a birthday present. I’ve let him play it and he’s made significant progress. I wanted give him time to play it and I figured I’d pick it up some time when he wasn’t playing it. He hasn’t been playing it lately, so I decided it was time to pick it up.

Luckily, this is a game that’s very amiibo-friendly. If you use just about any one of them, you’ll more than likely see a bunch of food and materials drop from the air, maybe even a chest. Link’s Smash Bros. amiibo does sometimes summon Epona. However, the most valuable for this game seems to be Wolf Link, he can join you in game and fight with you. You can play Twilight Princess HD and get Wolf Link more hearts. Get yourself as many hearts as you want or can and then use the Wolf Link amiibo to the Cave of Shadows. It will then save your character data to your amiibo, which can then be used in BotW. I’m actually interested in getting more amiibos, particularly from The Legend of Zelda, like Zelda and Ganondorf. They offer their own unique bonuses (at least in Twilight Princes HD and other games).

This game is cool, but there are definitely some spoiler-free noticeable things to point out. Weapons, shields, and bows break and can’t be repaired. There are new enemies and a variety of ways to get rid of them. Cutting grass doesn’t provide hearts or rupees, and there are multiple ways to use the environment to your advantage. There are plenty of materials around to harvest for cooking, which lets you make food to restore health or give some bonus, such as cold resistance.

Dungeons are now known as shrines. There are many and they are quite small compared to the Zelda dungeons we’ve come to know, love, or hate. In the beginning, it seems that the shrines give you what you need to complete them before you advance to the end. They are puzzle-like, but appear to be kind of nicely simplistic and not too greatly challenging. Some of the ones I’ve run into have also required me to use the Wii U’s Gamepad motion controls.

As for general combat, this game seems to be more difficult than other Zelda games. I’ve just started out and I’m not well equipped. I do have 4 hearts now, instead of 3, and I do have Wolf Link with me along with some of the runes I’ve collected, but I still get killed. The game isn’t shy about that, it even tells you while it’s loading to be careful and not rush head first into enemies without preparation.

Since rupees are now more rare, it’s hard to find enough to get well equipped. You can sell things, but apparently you want to save some things that you’ll need later for upgrades and such. I’ve been hoarding, I need to start selling more so I can get some armor. I just spent 80 rupees on some warmer gear, yet I still need a cold resistance buff where I’m at.

There are a variety of places to go and many ways of getting to them. You can fast travel, ride a horse, walk, climb, snowboard with your shield, or glide. You’ll need to tame a horse by sneaking up on it and mounting it, then pressing the button (L shoulder I believe) to calm them down. Once you’ve tamed one, you can register it at a stable (for 20 rupees I think). You can name it (except for Epona) and even have it stay at the stable. Otherwise, it may come to you if you whistle for it and you’re close enough for it to hear you. If you can’t find it, check the map for the horse icon. The solid colored horses appear to be usually superior to multi-colored horses.

I’ve seen videos of people that have talked about the game and many of them have 60-100 hours in and they still love it. So, I know there’s a lot to look forward to. Speaking of that, the DLC pack is available for about $20. One DLC is getting released “this summer” and another near the end of the year. I watched a couple of videos about it and I recommend checking some out. The DLC looks cool.

Gamespot created multiple videos containing tips they wish they knew before playing. There are now more than 5 of those videos and I recommend watching them. Each says it "may contain spoilers," but I didn't see any spoilers. You can find the playlist here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpg6WLs8kxGNU6ZFGXaxjxjLGnF9BZi64 There is also a "spoiler-free beginner's tips" video here: https://youtu.be/-EaO2S4Lyvk

Jack And Rich Review Zelda Breath of The Wild On Previously Recorded

Jack and Rich review Nintendo's latest Zelda game and they love it. Clocking in at an hour it's one of their longer reviews and as such a pretty deep dive in Zelda's gameplay.

Did Link Almost Battle Space Aliens? Find Out In This Three Part Nintendo Breath of the Wild Behind The Scenes Series!

Today Nintendo posted three videos that catalog the making of Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild. The first video is linked above called "The Beginning" which talks about the games early concept and start back in 2013. They go into detail about an early game demo that was mocked up using the original Zelda art that fleshed out some early game concepts that was the foundation for what became the final game. The final two videos I'll link below but contain spoilers so I haven't watched them. They don't outright lay out the story(at least that I saw, but I didn't finish them) but they do show scenes from later in the game I didn't want to see. That said, if spoilers... Read All

Nintendo Switch & Breath of the Wild Are Out And The Game Kart Tastes Terrible?

The Nintendo Switch & Zelda Breath of the Wild are now safely launched and not only does the Switch seem to be getting good reviews but it seems Breath of The Wild might be one of the best games of all time... already? Breath of the Wild is only few days old but is already getting crazy high reviews like a 98% Metacritic, 10/10 IGN, 10/10 Trusted Reviews, 10/10 Polygon and the like seem to be implying this latest Zelda game might be the pinnacle of the series. Even after the hype train and recent launch to crazy acclaim my plan for picking up a Switch by years end i'm sticking with. I have yet to finish up Ocarina 3D and after that I want to play Link Between... Read All

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/05/2017 at 01:48am

I ate some food after touching a cart and my finger had a bitter taste.

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/05/2017 at 04:44am

I finally got the paraglider! It only took me around 5 hours. :)

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/05/2017 at 04:52am

BTW, don't hold anything on fire near exploding barrels. Ouch.

AdamPFarnsworth wrote on 03/05/2017 at 05:39pm

I just got my Wii U version this morning! I'll make sure to lick the disk before playing.

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/05/2017 at 05:52pm

I hear the wii u version tastes like butterscotch.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 03/05/2017 at 11:29pm

I demand a full taste review!

GregoPeck Member wrote on 03/06/2017 at 03:29am

I won't be licking my disc, LOL. While playing, Vinny was watching videos about the Switch and the new Zelda game. He kept telling me things he's learned about it, keeping spoilers away. What I heard in those videos confirms what Jon said about extremely positive reviews. This one person said it's probably the best Zelda game EVER and incorporates the other games more than any other.

I'm looking forward to playing it, but I'm pre-occupied. I'll get to it eventually, maybe this summer.

scrypt Supporter wrote on 03/06/2017 at 01:10pm

It's the actual plastic casing, not the label, that tastes bitter. And it does taste nasty!

Travis Admin wrote on 03/06/2017 at 01:53pm

Scrypt-- I've heard plenty of people saying the casing is bad but the label is the worst. Boogie had his in his mouth for a few seconds before flipping it to the label side and then started acting like he might die. Interesting. I don't have one to taste myself :D

scrypt Supporter wrote on 03/06/2017 at 03:06pm

Challenge accepted...

scrypt Supporter wrote on 03/06/2017 at 03:11pm

So gross! I don't know, I can't really tell the difference. If I start with one side, the other just compounds the bitterness. Maybe the paper texture of the label side transfers the taste more rapidly? Jon, you need to put one in Finn's mouth and see what he thinks...

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 03/06/2017 at 03:37pm

I bet if I did that Francesca would punch me. That said, I'm glad it has it so if he tries it he will spit it out.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 03/06/2017 at 03:39pm

Some interesting articles I read this morning:

Looks like the Switch controllers are normal Bluetooth devices https://www.google.com/amp/s/techcrunch.com/2017/03/06/nintendo-switch-joy-con-and-pro-controllers-work-on-pc-mac-and-android/amp/

GameStop said the Switch was one of the strongest console launches in years. I wonder how that translates to sales?

https://gamerant.com/nintendo-switch-gamestop-launch-comparison/

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/06/2017 at 04:44pm

Today I found a boomerang. I threw said boomerang, and I did not know how to catch it. It flew over my head and I lost it. :(

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 03/06/2017 at 04:47pm

SO I GUESS YOU COULD SAY HOW TO USE IT FLEW RIGHT OVER YOUR HEAD?

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/06/2017 at 05:52pm

Yes.

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/06/2017 at 06:05pm

Amiibos are cool in this game. They give you a ton of useful items on a daily basis.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 03/09/2017 at 04:07am

https://i.imgur.com/bZ5weFE.gifv

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/09/2017 at 05:08am

That's cool

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/12/2017 at 07:57pm

In Zelda I am collecting 10 crickets so a guy can romance some girl.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 03/12/2017 at 10:06pm

How many crickets have you found so far?

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/12/2017 at 11:55pm

GregoPeck Member wrote on 03/13/2017 at 06:45am

I found two videos I thought I'd share from GameSpot: "9 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started Zelda: Breath of the Wild" (https://youtu.be/SaxP1MLBbPE) and "9 More Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started Zelda: Breath of the Wild" (https://youtu.be/v5p0ELwY5Sk).

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/13/2017 at 09:42pm

10 crickets! The dude went from a guy hanging out with a donkey to a pimp with those 10 crickets.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 03/14/2017 at 03:14am

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EvbqxBUG_c

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/14/2017 at 05:05am

That was awesome!

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/14/2017 at 06:38pm

I am 15 hours into BotW and I feel like I have barely started the game. The time has gone by fast too!

Travis Admin wrote on 03/14/2017 at 07:40pm

Is that good or bad for you? Based on your tone I'm guessing good. Some people would find it daunting, some would want to spend 700 hours in it. I love long games as long as the depth is there.

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/14/2017 at 08:46pm

Good for me!

GregoPeck Member wrote on 03/19/2017 at 05:49am

GameSpot's "Even More Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started Zelda: Breath of the Wild" https://youtu.be/7p6DMevgbyw

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 03/20/2017 at 04:32am

Breath of the Wild on SNES - https://i.redd.it/93dtafk5gemy.gif

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/22/2017 at 03:29pm

25 hours in and I am still having fun, and I still don't know where to go. :) I think I may have found an easier path this morning. Every path I have taken before has kicked my ass.

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/22/2017 at 11:10pm

Nope, I was wrong. Time to search for another path. :)

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 03/22/2017 at 11:16pm

I am enjoying the discovery process. Even though I have not progressed much in the story line, I have been clearing shrines and opening up the map.

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Breath of the Wild Compared To Previous Zelda's And Skyrim

When Ocarina of Time came out in 1998 it was one of the biggest game worlds i'd ever experienced. As games like Fallout and Skyrim came out Ocarina now seems quaint but Nintendo seems ready to take on the the challenge of building a much larger Zelda game this time around. As you can see in the image above, Breath of the Wild dwarfs previous Zelda games as well as Skyrim. I'm not sure creating a larger game world makes a game better on it's own but having more space to play in will make the game much more immersive.

The Nintendo Switch & Zelda Breath of the Wild Launch March 3rd!

The Nintendo Switch launch presentation just ended and they dropped some pretty important news about the new console. Namely that it will launch March 3rd side by side with Zelda Breath of the Wild. The base system with a Joy-con, docking station, HDMI & included charging cable (yay) will retail in the US for $300 and you will be able to buy it will grey joy-con or blue and red joy-con controllers. The Switch will also launch with region free games, which is pretty unique for Nintendo systems up to this point. They mentioned that online functionality would be free until the fall and then become some kind of paid service afterward. It's not entirely clear what the... Read All The Nintendo Switch launch presentation just ended and they dropped some pretty important news about the new console. Namely that it will launch March 3rd side by side with Zelda Breath of the Wild. The base system with a Joy-con, docking station, HDMI & included charging cable (yay) will retail in the US for $300 and you will be able to buy it will grey joy-con or blue and red joy-con controllers. The Switch will also launch with region free games, which is pretty unique for Nintendo systems up to this point. They mentioned that online functionality would be free until the fall and then become some kind of paid service afterward. It's not entirely clear what the online service will be yet but hopefully that monthly and yearly fee will go to make it something special.

Nintendo switch will also require a bit of charging as with certain games the battery will last 2 1/2 to 6 hours. That's not too bad I suppose but I imagine Breath of the Wild might run at the 2 1/2 hour battery end. Nintendo mentioned the system can play and charge at the same time so if you are on a flight with a socket, you should be fine.

I'm pretty excited they mentioned that local multiplayer would support up to 8 systems connected together. I bet that would create for an interesting Mario Kart party with people bringing in multiple Switch systems. Something I didn't expect to hear was that the Joy-con also acts as a sort of Wii-mote. This looks to bring the Wii functionality forward to the Switch which looks to create some interesting game experiences. Not sure i'd play many of them all told, but something could come of it that I might enjoy.

Some of the games demo'd were:

Mario Odyssey which looks like an open world Mario game featuring many different planet like areas. Mario’s hat is a character that has some role in the game that seems to interacts with the Switch controller. Mario Odyssey looks like it will come out in the holiday season of 2017. A couple other titles they demoed were Xenoblade Chronicles 2, Fire Emblem Warriors, Dragon Quest 10, 11 (in Japan), Dragon Quest Heroes 1 & 2, Project Octopath traveler, Skyrim and Splatoon 2.

The presentation wasn't quite what I expected and I wanted more technical details of the system but from what they did show the Switch looks pretty cool and I bet it will sell out come March 3rd. What did you think of the presentation? Are you going to pick up the system or are you scratching your head a bit with the new direction Nintendo is headed?

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:22am

I wonder if Breath of the Wild will launch on the Switch and Wii U at the same time March 3rd?

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:35am

Zelda on the Wii U is coming out March 31st according to Amazon.

I wanted to see more day 1 games. Zelda and 1 2 switch were the only confirmed launch games.

Battery life was a disappointment but not a surprise.

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:36am

Controllers are expensive. $79.99 for a pair of joy cons.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:36am

I agree with you on the games. It reminds me of the Wii launch list which wasn't a lot of games. That said, Zelda should give people a lot of game to play. At least it would take me months to beat it with a kid but most gamers have much more time than I do.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:38am

Right Breath of the Wild on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Legend-Zelda-Breath-Wild/dp/B00KWF803C

Where did you see the price for the joy cons?

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:41am

Ign post show announced it.

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:43am

http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/01/13/official-nintendo-switch-controller-accessory-prices-revealed

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:45am

I guess the more expensive joy con makes sense as it's two controllers in one but it does seem a bit steep. Actually all those controllers seem a bit pricey as the PS4 dual shock and XBox One controller max out at $50 to $60.

AdamPFarnsworth wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:45am

Wow, 1 2 Switch is going to be the new Wii Sports! I am really excited to see how they continue to develop for the JoyCons. And Arms looked adorable, but I think it could be another Splatoon. Speaking of which, the Splatoon 2 announcement wassuper awkward. The translator totally ruined that one.

I am pretty sure I'll be buying the Switch at some point. Probably not Day 1 though.

scrypt Supporter wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:49am

Mario Odyssey looks cool, however if they require using motion controls to throw the hat, forget it.

I'm looking forward to Shin Megami Tensei and Xenoblade 2. Xenoblade was one of the games that looked really interesting, but I missed for not owning a Wii U. Zelda (of course Zelda) looked to have a lot more polish on it since the earlier demonstrations. Can't wait to see what it looks and plays like come March.

The motion controls (*sigh)... I don't know. They could be on the periphery enough that I would never have to mess with it if I didn't want to. I just really wish that wasn't a feature. I'm sure it will be fine, but I worry that some game will require it (Like Mario Odyssey), for the sole purpose of shoehorning the gimmick rather than benefiting the gameplay. You could say "Well, it worked for the Wii..." But this is not the Wii. So the real question is, can it be both? That's the question that I wish I didn't have to ask. Unless it works really, really well! Which it might!!

scrypt Supporter wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:53am

I bet you anything the games like Zelda BotW, Xenoblade 2, Mario Odyssey are going to start at $70.

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:55am

Don't forget that it comes with a power adapter! Now you are playing with power!

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:56am

The Nintendo site is getting hammered now but here are some details on the online service.

https://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/hdtpzzlg4ceecaebaqxj.jpg

* Free SNES / NES game per month
* New app to set online play appointments
* Exclusive discounts on games (?)

AdamPFarnsworth wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:57am

I love the "games you look at each other rather than the screen" concept. It might end up being a gimmick, but it could change gaming.

Also, I would bet money they're working on a VR headset. The HD Feedback (or whatever they called it with the ice rumbling in the controller) and Joy-Con remotes seem almost built for it.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/13/2017 at 06:00am

http://www.nintendo.com/switch/features/

* Internal memory 32GB of internal memory, a portion of which is reserved for use by the system. Users can easily expand storage space using microSDXC cards.
* Screen 6.2-inch, multi-touch capacitive touch screen; can display a resolution of 1280 x 720.

I bet that means the output is 720p which wouldn't be too bad if games could lock at 60FPS.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/13/2017 at 06:02am

Looks like Switch will get Mario Kart 8 Deluxe in April. Not sure the details but a second month Mario Kart(even if it's already out) is a pretty good idea for people that don't own the Wii U.

http://mariokart8.nintendo.com/

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/13/2017 at 06:03am

There is a website for it but so far it's down.

http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/mario-kart-8-deluxe-switch

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/13/2017 at 06:13am

More games listed. Just Dance 2017, Has Been Heroes, Super Bomberman R, NBA 2K18, Snipperclips and the rest from the reveal.

http://www.nintendo.com/games/switch/

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Trailer looks cool. Looks like it's the same game with the DLC included. Not sure about any new features yet beyond that.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKlRN2YpxRE

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/13/2017 at 06:18am

So the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe page is up with some interesting details.

http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/mario-kart-8-deluxe-switch

* Race as every character on every track from the Wii U version, including DLC characters and tracks.
* Pop some balloons in the revamped Battle mode, complete with Balloon Battle and Bob-omb Blast.
* Battle on new courses, like Urchin Underpass and Battle Stadium, or returning ones, such as GCN Luigi's Mansion and SNES Battle Course 1.
* Inkling Girl & Inkling Boy from Splatoon, King Boo, Dry Bones, and Bowser Jr. join the roster!
* Three new vehicles have been added, two are even inspired by Splatoon
* Returning items include Boo, the item stealing ghost, and the Feather, which gives you a high jump in battle mode.
* Play your friends in local wireless multiplayer with up to 8 players.
* Drive through in 1080p HD quality in TV mode

Looks like the TV mode output is dependent on what the game can do, which is nice.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/13/2017 at 06:18am

Breath of the Wild Switch Special Edition looks really cool.

http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/the-legend-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild-special-edition-switch

scrypt Supporter wrote on 01/13/2017 at 06:29am

Breath of the Wild Switch Special Edition looks really cool.

Okay! Definitely pre-ordering that! So, $400 for March?

scrypt Supporter wrote on 01/13/2017 at 06:33am

The official page shows an Amiibo logo at the bottom. Hmm...

http://www.zelda.com/breath-of-the-wild/

scrypt Supporter wrote on 01/13/2017 at 06:34am

Ahhh... http://www.zelda.com/breath-of-the-wild/news/classic-amiibo-support-revealed

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/13/2017 at 06:34am

Yep, it's talked about here.

http://nintendo.tumblr.com/post/153959693594/the-legend-of-zelda-30th-anniversary-amiibo-are

GregoPeck Member wrote on 01/13/2017 at 07:22am

Wow the price of a Joy-Con does seem a bit expensive, but that little gadget apparently has a lot of technology in it, it can do quite a few things. It's not as simple as it looks.

@scrypt, why do you think those games will cost $70? Breath of the Wild, the Wii U version, is on Amazon for $60.

@Jon thanks for the details about the online service. That might be one I wouldn't mind paying for, I guess it just depends on what's offered.

I did notice Mario Kart in some of the videos they showed, but wasn't sure if it was the Wii U version or a new one, until I saw something different. I remember seeing 4 items above the player, as though you could store 4 and choose one among them.

scrypt Supporter wrote on 01/13/2017 at 08:24am

@GregoPeck, because of the cartridge format. I really think they will have to compensate for production costs by increasing retail prices of games. Otherwise it won't be as profitable for developers to sell games on the Switch. The fact that DS/3DS are on cartridges is irrelevant, because there is no competition for those systems, no market to drive down prices, so they can charge what they want. Selling a console game on a proprietary system, with a proprietary media format... Unless they have a way of producing cartridges at the same cost as a Blu-ray disc, then they will have to make up the cost somehow. Proprietary media doesn't ever stick around for very long, historically speaking. Without the market required to mass produce, cost can't compete with more widely adopted media (e.g. CD, DVD, and now Blu-ray).

I'm just speculating, of course, but I'm very interested to see how moving to a cartridge based system will compete against the existing console market.

scrypt Supporter wrote on 01/13/2017 at 08:30am

Of course, after I write that, checking Amazon and they have placeholder box art for Skyrim, Zelda, and Fifa, priced at $59.99. I'm really glad to see that. I don't know how they can do that, but I'm glad :).

Travis Admin wrote on 01/13/2017 at 01:05pm

I don't know how much more it actually costs to make a cartridge game but I can imagine them eating that cost to get their games on the new hot system. New games were $50 not long ago and people freaked out a bit when they went to $60 so they probably wanted to avoid that same kind of freak out.

Travis Admin wrote on 01/13/2017 at 01:07pm

Also I kinda figured there would be some motion control. Nintendo is big on re-releasing games from previous generations and this way you can play wii games that you download without having to buy a wii controller.

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 01/13/2017 at 03:40pm

My plan to get it from Amazon was thwarted by it going up for preorder at midnight. I did manage to get a preorder in at GameStop. We shall see if I get it on the 3rd.

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 01/13/2017 at 04:05pm

1080p output when docked 720p when in handheld mode

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/13/2017 at 04:18pm

http://i.imgur.com/cI4dpW0.jpg

Travis Admin wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:21pm

awesome. 1080p docked is great news.

Travis Admin wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:21pm

I kinda guessed that it would but it's nice to have it confirmed

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/13/2017 at 05:31pm

Yeah, it is.

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 01/13/2017 at 09:28pm

Ugh: http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/01/13/nintendo-switch-online-services-free-classic-games-are-only-available-for-limited-time

Travis Admin wrote on 01/13/2017 at 09:33pm

Oof... that's incredibly lame.

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 01/13/2017 at 09:41pm

Some good size comparison shots here. They put the joy-con and the switch up against the wiimote, 3ds, wii u and wii u gamepad. http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/01/13/21-photos-comparing-the-nintendo-switch-to-the-wii-u-nintendo-3ds?abthid=58794710bad7baf135000038

Travis Admin wrote on 01/14/2017 at 04:10am

It's small but I don't think it's prohibitively small. As I've seen mentioned elsewhere I think switching between the right stick and the buttons will be the tricky thing, but it might also be fine *because* it's small. It'll take some testing.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/14/2017 at 06:05am

So now that the hype of the announcement night is over and we are flush with Switch details has anyone changed their mind about things? I think I am solidly not going to pre-order one but might pick one up around the holidays. I have a few Zelda games i've yet to finish and am also flush with a couple other games so I don't need anything new right now. That said, holidays 2017 look like a good time to possibly pick on up(if I can). I might get the Breath of the Wild Collectors edition on Switch though because I like those packages and want to pick that up before it gets hard to find.

GregoPeck Member wrote on 01/14/2017 at 06:43am

Last night I felt a bit ready to pre-order one. Now that I've had some more time to think about it, I'm not sure. I'm only interested in the Zelda game and that would mean about $360 just for one game. It doesn't make much sense to spend that much on just one game. However, my son would play the Switch, too. He still uses the Wii U, which I haven't used in quite a while. So, I'm not really sure. Maybe I'll just go the cheaper route and get that Zelda game for the Wii U. Right now we don't know if our digital games will transfer from the Wii U to the Switch, or at least I haven't seen nor heard of that being possible. Is it at all backwards compatible with the Wii U? I doubt it, at least for physical copies. One of the games I bought for Vinny's birthday was Terraria, but then that disc failed. I can't get the system to recognize it anymore and it doesn't look like it's in bad shape. So I bought the digital version. I think we also have the digital version of Minecraft. While I like both games, I've already paid for multiple versions of each of them, so I'm kind of thinking, "geez how many times do I have to buy these games?"

Bottom line, I'm only interested in the one game. I still haven't even started playing the games I bought for my PC during the Thanksgiving sales (Steam & Origin).

Travis Admin wrote on 01/14/2017 at 05:05pm

I still think it's as cool as I did before the announcement, and I still think I might get one this year, but I also might not. Since I'd be almost entirely buying it for first-party titles, waiting for a price drop may make more sense for me.

scrypt Supporter wrote on 01/15/2017 at 02:20am

I pre-ordered the special edition Zelda, but I'll wait on the system, for a bit at least. With Horizon Zero Dawn coming in February, and Mass Effect Andromeda coming in March, I'll be good for games for a while. I assume Switch systems will be hard to come by if you haven't pre-ordered already, anyway.

Travis Admin wrote on 01/15/2017 at 02:26am

http://nintendoeverything.com/reggie-talks-switch-online-service-info-teased-on-rebuying-classic-games-supply-concerns-3ds-here-to-stay/

So... voice chat is a smartphone app. This is an odd choice.

Travis Admin wrote on 01/15/2017 at 02:28am

What's the point of a paid online service that doesn't let you talk to people? If the smartphone app is part of the online service, why not use any number of other chat apps? If you're chatting on a headset that uses a smartphone app, how do you hear your game?

This is such a weird call.

scrypt Supporter wrote on 01/15/2017 at 02:50am

Reggie: "I think it would be helpful maybe to step back."

You'd have to also think backwards if you're trying to understand what Nintendo is trying to do. It's no real surprise. Nintendo has been hesitant to have anything to do with a modern online infrastructure (i.e. video, voice, multiplayer...) from the beginning (his line about "it continues to reinforce our commitment to online..." is hilarious). Exclusively using a mobile app for chat is completely ridiculous. You're exactly right, Travis. Why not use Discord, or any other free service which is already mobile friendly?

scrypt Supporter wrote on 01/15/2017 at 02:59am

May be worth noting, too, that he's talking about playing online on-the-go. Is that alluding to using your phone as a hotspot? Will all the game audio come through the phone app?

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/15/2017 at 04:06am

> I pre-ordered the special edition Zelda

Where? It's not available on Amazon right now.

Good to hear they are actively working to get more NES Classic units. I wonder if they revved up to build more Switch units for launch and sort of flubbed the Classic a bit?

In a way using a Smartphone app for online voice basically means we can just keep using whatever we use now. Which is fine, when I used to play Mario Kart online with friends I just talked on my speakerphone or skype.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/15/2017 at 04:07am

Ah, looks like it sold out on Gamestop and Amazon and is available on Bestbuy. Hmmmmm.

scrypt Supporter wrote on 01/15/2017 at 04:29am

Where? It's not available on Amazon right now.

It was yesterday, briefly.

The reason you used Skype or your phone in the past is because Nintendo has pretty lame online services. Now, they will be charging for those services, and seemingly providing little else of value. 30 day rental for games? Using an extra piece of hardware (your phone) to chat online? Presumably, they won't allow you to enjoy network multiplayer games without participating in the service. No one else is charging for online networks without giving a lot more of value. It's just a huge step backwards.

The Switch launches in just over a month. Why are they trickling information? They aren't competing with anyone in March. Why not tell us what the service does and does not do, in detail? Probably because it's in some kind of beta phase, meaning they don't really know. Which is probably why it will be free until the fall.

Yes, I'm being skeptical.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/15/2017 at 04:39am

> No one else is charging for online networks without giving a lot more of value. It's just a huge step backwards.

I agree. I think they will hear the backlash and change here. At least, I really hope so SIMPLY having a tax on online isn't the solution.

> Probably because it's in some kind of beta phase, meaning they don't really know. Which is probably why it will be free until the fall.

Yeah absolutely OR to keep the hype train going with more marketing later.

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 01/17/2017 at 04:42pm

I ended up getting 1 2 switch, despite the high price. I think it will get a lot of play in my household.

AdamPFarnsworth wrote on 01/17/2017 at 07:24pm

1 2 Switch isn't shipping with it? I assumed it would be the game bundled with the system. (Obviously I've not looked into buying it at all yet)

GregoPeck Member wrote on 01/17/2017 at 08:09pm

@Adam, nope it's a separate game. There are no games shipping with the Switch. I read that it was because they wanted keep the cost of the system as close to $350 as they could. I also read that 1 2 Switch is more of a game than Wii Sports.

Travis Admin wrote on 01/18/2017 at 03:41am

I also read that 1 2 Switch is more of a game than Wii Sports.

You know, I loved a few games on the Wii but I probably put the most time into Wii sports. It may not have been much more than some minigames to get you into the motion controls but it was so well done.

Looking at 1 2 Switch it again looks like more minigames with less even going on on-screen so I'm not sure how it would be more of a game, but if it's as polished as Wii Sports AND more of a game, it'll be amazing.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/18/2017 at 04:26am

> You know, I loved a few games on the Wii but I probably put the most time into Wii sports. It may not have been much more than some minigames to get you into the motion controls but it was so well done.

I want to echo this. Wii Sports was simple sure, but it did what it did well and it sold the Wii. Plus it was fun and when it was new it made a party.

GregoPeck Member wrote on 01/18/2017 at 05:11am

I also thought Wii Sports was a great game. I had a lot of fun with it! I thought it was a good "ice breaker" to the Wii's motion controls. It seems that 1 2 Switch will be similar to the joy-con. It is hard to imagine playing a game where you don't even look at the screen, but we'll see how it works out.

Forgive my laziness, I should have looked for this and shared it with my previous comment, but here you go (see full article in the link below):

As for 1 2 Switch the article says, "when asked specifically about 1, 2, Switch and how it seems like the ideal evolution of the Wii Sports-style bundled game, Fils-Aime acknowledged the similarities between the two. However, he disputed this to some degree, arguing 1, 2, Switch is a more comprehensive game."

http://www.gamespot.com/articles/why-switch-doesnt-include-any-bundled-games/1100-6446940/

GregoPeck Member wrote on 01/18/2017 at 05:15am

I'd also like to share what I just found regarding Breath of the Wild on the Wii U vs. Switch. Just from reading the article, it doesn't seem as though the difference will really be all that apparently noticeable.
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/switch-vs-wii-u-all-the-zelda-breath-of-the-wild-d/1100-6447008/

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/19/2017 at 05:29am

I just added the Nintendo Switch as a platform as well as added the 13 main games coming at launch or slightly thereafter to our main games list. So if you pre-ordered anything, feel free to add it to your list!

http://cheerfulghost.com/platform/switch

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 01/19/2017 at 05:14pm

The binding of isaac: afterbirth+ is now a launch title:

http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/01/19/the-binding-of-isaac-afterbirth-is-a-nintendo-switch-launch-title

I preordered it since I have yet to play it.

GregoPeck Member wrote on 01/20/2017 at 01:37am

I just pre-ordered Breath of the Wild for the Wii U and saved $12 with Amazon Prime! This satisfies my only desire for the Switch and saves me money. :)

Thanks for the game list additions, Jon!

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/20/2017 at 02:57am

No problem Greg. I figure with all the interest here in the Switch getting it added was a good idea.

jdodson Admin Post Author wrote on 01/20/2017 at 06:22am

"From a first-party standpoint, there's no new development coming after the launch of the legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild,” he said. “We really are at the end of life for Wii U."

Fils-Aime said that Wii U titles will continue to be sold at retail and on the Nintendo eShop, and the company had not begun any discussion for sunsetting online services for the console.

Whoa, the Wii U has only been around for 4 1/2 years and Nintendo is done with first party titles? Wow, that kind of makes sense but surprising. I guess Switch really is the hard Wii U replacement.

http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/19/14313914/legend-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild-last-nintendo-game-for-wii-u

AdamPFarnsworth wrote on 01/20/2017 at 02:40pm

Hey, at least the Wii U lasted longer than the Virtual Boy! ;)

AdamPFarnsworth wrote on 01/20/2017 at 02:43pm

I just realized the Switch is going to make me reorganize my TV stand. Currently my Wii U is tucked next to the Blue-ray player, but might not need super accessible for docking and undocking. I don't really want a system on the top of the stand... not a huge deal, but will cause some rearranging.

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 01/20/2017 at 06:54pm

I too have to rearrange things on my TV stand.

AdamPFarnsworth wrote on 01/20/2017 at 07:18pm

#PoorUs #ItsAHardKnockLife

Will_Ball Game Mod Member wrote on 01/20/2017 at 08:03pm

I need more HDMI ports in my receiver.

Travis Admin wrote on 01/20/2017 at 11:26pm

I feel like I will always need more HDMI ports. I could have 10 and within days I would have 11 devices I need to connect.