Nintendo's One Console Future

3D!

Wait! Before you post that stinging comment before even reading this piece, just take a second and let me explain.

I am not saying that Nintendo should get rid of the DS or Wii and only have one console on the market. I am also not saying that Nintendo is going to fail with either console in anyway.

So, what am I saying?

Pilotwings 3DS When I saw the list of games that Nintendo and its partners have developing for the 3DS my heart almost seized with excitement. Pretty soon after, however, I also started to wonder why I wasn't getting a game like Pilotwings on my Wii and why a game like the reboot of Kid Icarus is only going to come out on the 3DS. So, I am saying that Nintendo might profit from developing their games like they only have one console.

Since the 3DS is a powerful machine, Nintendo should easily be able to port the games being developed for it over to the Wii, make some additions or changes to make the games fit onto a larger TV, and then reap the benefits of selling these great titles on two consoles!

I also think the same mindset might profit Sony when they are thinking how to develop games for the PSP.

Now, I know that not every game would be a great fit for both a home console and a handheld, but I do think that the vast majority of the titles I have seen being developed for the 3DS would feel just as good being played with a Wii Remote as they will be with a stylus.

It has always seemed to me like Sony and Nintendo have trouble keeping their eyes on the development cycles of two consoles. At times it feels like they have to choose which console to give the short shrift, and right now it seems like Nintendo has cooled on the Wii (despite a few good games on the horizon, E3 was almost all 3DS). I truly believe using this mindset could profit all of the consoles and games these companies juggle.

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Matthew H. Mason

July 30, 2010

As cool as your idea would be, I don't think it would be that easy.

Some games could be beneficial on both systems, but more often than not, the games I play on my DS wouldn't translate to my Wii.

I've been playing the heck out of Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story; and while graphically the Wii could handle it, I think it would miss the point when it has to remove the mic mechanics and the ability to flip the DS when Koopa gets all big. Not to mention the novely of having the Mario Bros. on the bottom screen and Bowser on top.

We also have to take into account the impact a game might have in 3D versus 2D. While most of the launch games just look to use it in a superficial way, there will come the day when someone creates a mind-blowing use for 3D.

And sometimes, experiences are inherently better on certain platforms. I love Professor Layton -- but I think that's because I can play it in extremely satisfying chunks rather than devoting a few hours in front of my TV.

I'm not saying your arguement doesn't have merit, I just don't see it as likely.

And also, Nintendo makes enough money making us buy Super Mario Bros. on everything. They're doing fine.

Frank Anderson

I agree 100% that Nintendo is doing fine monetarily despite some concerns people are voicing about Wii sales. I also agree that some games might not be a great fit as they are, but with some changes specific to the perspective console I can see them fitting.

I am much more concerned with the droughts we see in software from Nintendo at times, and I think this type of development could help aleviate these droughts. Their games sell so well that they are obviously not hurting from them, but I have to imagine this would potentially double their profits from the games they develop.

As a fan of Nintendo, I want them to take any measures they can to make great games!

Lance Darnell

August 01, 2010

I would love if Nintendo just focused on the 3DS and let the Wii do it's own thing. I really miss the days where all of the creative talent was put into one console. I also hate having to buy multiple systems!!!!