A report cropping up in UK trade magazine MCV this morning, claims that according to sources close to Nintendo, the Revolution will not be available for around two years, offering a launch period of spring 2007 for the PAL version of the machine.
"“Revolution will launch towards the end of next year,” a Nintendo source told MCV. “We’re currently looking at mirroring the DS strategy, so Revolution would release in the US first in November, closely followed by Japan – then we’re looking at March 2007 for PAL territories.”
Of course, this is far later than many had predicted and does conflict directly with talk behind the scenes at Nintendo’s E3 showing, where word had it that Revolution would see daylight early in Q2 2006. Of course, no development kits have been shipped to date, with perhaps only a select group of key software partners in Japan privy to Nintendo’s Big Secret at this time.
Developers are working to outline technical specifications provided by Nintendo right now, with both ATi and IBM base specs being available to certain parties. However, as far as SPOnG is aware, no controller information has been provided.
In related news, Nintendo America’s head of marketing and communication George Harrison in an interview with GameSpot said of the Revolution’s power output, “Revolution I think will have really no problem standing up to [Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3]. Sony spent so much time focused on technical specs, it's like they threw in the kitchen sink trying to compete with Microsoft. So for us, we're going to have plenty of power and plenty of capability in the Revolution, but the real thinking and the real value come in the creative game development, and that for us is what's really going to separate the three consoles.” He continued, “We haven't released any of the technical specs. We're working with IBM and ATi, so certainly all the capability that we need is there right in our development partners. We try to figure out how to strike a balance between giving the developers everything that they need to make great games, and not having it be so much that they have to spend inordinate amounts of money. In the end it has to be a business. Publishers have to be able to create the game and sell it effectively, and be able to then support the next game.”
"“Revolution will launch towards the end of next year,” a Nintendo source told MCV. “We’re currently looking at mirroring the DS strategy, so Revolution would release in the US first in November, closely followed by Japan – then we’re looking at March 2007 for PAL territories.”
Of course, this is far later than many had predicted and does conflict directly with talk behind the scenes at Nintendo’s E3 showing, where word had it that Revolution would see daylight early in Q2 2006. Of course, no development kits have been shipped to date, with perhaps only a select group of key software partners in Japan privy to Nintendo’s Big Secret at this time.
Developers are working to outline technical specifications provided by Nintendo right now, with both ATi and IBM base specs being available to certain parties. However, as far as SPOnG is aware, no controller information has been provided.
In related news, Nintendo America’s head of marketing and communication George Harrison in an interview with GameSpot said of the Revolution’s power output, “Revolution I think will have really no problem standing up to [Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3]. Sony spent so much time focused on technical specs, it's like they threw in the kitchen sink trying to compete with Microsoft. So for us, we're going to have plenty of power and plenty of capability in the Revolution, but the real thinking and the real value come in the creative game development, and that for us is what's really going to separate the three consoles.” He continued, “We haven't released any of the technical specs. We're working with IBM and ATi, so certainly all the capability that we need is there right in our development partners. We try to figure out how to strike a balance between giving the developers everything that they need to make great games, and not having it be so much that they have to spend inordinate amounts of money. In the end it has to be a business. Publishers have to be able to create the game and sell it effectively, and be able to then support the next game.”
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Comments
acidviper 27 May 2005 13:35
1/15
LOL maybe Revolution will beat PSP to Europe
AlexDee 27 May 2005 14:56
2/15
What won't?
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jumpman 27 May 2005 17:35
3/15
REVOLUTION! REVOLUTION! REVOLUTION! REVOLUTION! REVOLUTION!
Talkin' bout the....
Anyway...2007? Too late Nintendo! Are you stupid? Actually, don't answer that.
Talkin' bout the....
Anyway...2007? Too late Nintendo! Are you stupid? Actually, don't answer that.
YenRug 27 May 2005 18:45
4/15
http://www.cube-europe.com/special.php?sid=heininterview
Interview by Cube Europe with Marko Hein, Product/ Product Analysis Manager at NOE; I'd take this guy's view as being more realistic over someone's from NOA, personally.
Interview by Cube Europe with Marko Hein, Product/ Product Analysis Manager at NOE; I'd take this guy's view as being more realistic over someone's from NOA, personally.
C-E: How long after the Japanese release do you expect Europe to get the Revolution?
MH: This is impossible to tell right now, as this does not only depend on the production of the hardware but also on the availability of the software, which we want to provide in the right quantity and quality. However, considering the launch of DS, we launched the system in only 14 weeks in all global territories which was our fastest global release ever. Nintendo is taking a global approach very seriously and we will try to minimize time differences for Nintendo Revolution as well.
MH: This is impossible to tell right now, as this does not only depend on the production of the hardware but also on the availability of the software, which we want to provide in the right quantity and quality. However, considering the launch of DS, we launched the system in only 14 weeks in all global territories which was our fastest global release ever. Nintendo is taking a global approach very seriously and we will try to minimize time differences for Nintendo Revolution as well.
soanso 28 May 2005 01:10
5/15
I think a 2007 launch would be a bad move for nintendo but it would of course depend on the games that they had available, and what the others launched with.
I've read the posts on this forum over the last few days going on about the specs of xbox360 and ps3 and quite frankly, I don't give a toss about them. As long as the games are good and as long as all that power really adds to something.
The xbox line up looks a bit more interesting to me than the ps3 one. I want to see new titles not just endless sequels (though if they all turned out to be resident evil4 style sequels then that wouldn't be a bad thing)
But will the masses buy new names?
or do they just want the same stuff with better graphics?
I've read the posts on this forum over the last few days going on about the specs of xbox360 and ps3 and quite frankly, I don't give a toss about them. As long as the games are good and as long as all that power really adds to something.
The xbox line up looks a bit more interesting to me than the ps3 one. I want to see new titles not just endless sequels (though if they all turned out to be resident evil4 style sequels then that wouldn't be a bad thing)
But will the masses buy new names?
or do they just want the same stuff with better graphics?
BustyKrusty 28 May 2005 02:44
6/15
07 eh! Man, whos gonna wait tht,i mean i might not even live that long...however,if i do by that time i'll just buy PS3 or X360 or forget about Revolution altogether(well maybe not),anyways as the time goes Cube releases are being stripped down for 05 to almost nothing and with 06 on the way i happily expect it to be reduced very close to 0000.
Its better be worth the wait.
Its better be worth the wait.
dmgice 28 May 2005 14:26
7/15
If the system were to launch in 2007.. the best time to do so would be February 2007.
That way it would be out a couple monthes after the PS3 launch in the Winter of 2006.
The controller and specs will be out by the end of this year, thus the system will be playable next E3. So, it makes sense for Nintendo to use the monthes after E3 2006 to work on production of the units.
Of course, Nintendo needs something for the Christmas 2006 season.
Hence: Game Boy Evolution, Mario 128, and God knows what for the Nintendo DS.
The Game Boy Micro is a bit of a spoiler system that is meant to slowly wean gamers off of the old GB/GBC games. Why? Easy. Let's say that the Game Boy Evolution foregoes the idea of Game Paks in favor of a larger, optical medium. Weaning off the old stuff is a good idea for the design of the unit. Oh, no! What of backwards compatability! Well, you need to be able to save your games on something.. how about using SD cards. So, what else can we do with SD cards?
Simple.
Sell the Game Boy Evolution to the public with new games, and the promise of using the Nintendo Revolution to download old NES/SNES/N64 games to an SD card for play on the Revolution.. or for taking out and placing into your Game Boy Evolution for truly portable NES, SNES, and N64 gaming. How's that for a slice of fine gold?
That would give Nintendo fans something to buy that would also jazz them up for the Revolution system as well. So, release the Revolution a month or two after all good little children have gotten a Game Boy Evolution from the Hannukah Fairy. They'll be playing their GBE and dreaming about how freaking sweet it will be to download Super Metroid, Punch-Out, and Ocarina of Time to an SD card with the Revolution for play on the go with the Evolution. Of course, they'll also be dreaming of ONLINE Super Smash Bros., Metroid Prime 3, and more on the Revolution. It's just... a seamless blend between the systems....
The trinity of devices would be like this:
Evolution & Revolution would share the same SD cards for playing classic games, while you could use the Revolution as your wireless hub for the Nintendo DS, and manage your downloads or chat with people via the DS VOIP software. This would place each of the three pillars in their proper places.
1. Revolution = The CENTER of the temple, all gameplay begins here. It uses the Nintendo DS and the Game Boy Evolution as controllers, equals, etc.
2. Nintendo DS = The WALLS of the temple, all productivity, management, and more happen here. The Nintendo DS would be able to use the Revolution like a router. You may also be able to use the Nintendo DS as a controller or secondary display in some games.
3. Evolution = The DOORS to the temple, much of the spoils from the CENTER of the temple may be taken to far off lands and enjoyed away from the base.
The Evolution and Nintendo DS would not work with each other, but they would work with the Revolution differently. Thus, it is to the advantage of the consumer to have all three. Of course, there could be games that used all three at the same time. Let me get long winded and explain that.
I would build an RPG. In this RPG, data is sent to the SD card as your character progresses. You would use the Nintendo DS as your controller in the main game. As you progress, you build up mini-missions that you can not play on the Revolution. Pop out that SD Card and pop it into the Evolution to take part in those mini-missions. Download new mini-missions via the Revolution using your DS as a controller, then play those mini-missions on your GBE. It's a pretty awesome idea. We'll see.
In a racer, you can use the Nintendo DS transmitting data back and forth to the Revolution as you tune up your car, fix up stuff, and customize your ride via the touch screen system. Then take that ride on the go via SD for extra races and challenge. What?
That way it would be out a couple monthes after the PS3 launch in the Winter of 2006.
The controller and specs will be out by the end of this year, thus the system will be playable next E3. So, it makes sense for Nintendo to use the monthes after E3 2006 to work on production of the units.
Of course, Nintendo needs something for the Christmas 2006 season.
Hence: Game Boy Evolution, Mario 128, and God knows what for the Nintendo DS.
The Game Boy Micro is a bit of a spoiler system that is meant to slowly wean gamers off of the old GB/GBC games. Why? Easy. Let's say that the Game Boy Evolution foregoes the idea of Game Paks in favor of a larger, optical medium. Weaning off the old stuff is a good idea for the design of the unit. Oh, no! What of backwards compatability! Well, you need to be able to save your games on something.. how about using SD cards. So, what else can we do with SD cards?
Simple.
Sell the Game Boy Evolution to the public with new games, and the promise of using the Nintendo Revolution to download old NES/SNES/N64 games to an SD card for play on the Revolution.. or for taking out and placing into your Game Boy Evolution for truly portable NES, SNES, and N64 gaming. How's that for a slice of fine gold?
That would give Nintendo fans something to buy that would also jazz them up for the Revolution system as well. So, release the Revolution a month or two after all good little children have gotten a Game Boy Evolution from the Hannukah Fairy. They'll be playing their GBE and dreaming about how freaking sweet it will be to download Super Metroid, Punch-Out, and Ocarina of Time to an SD card with the Revolution for play on the go with the Evolution. Of course, they'll also be dreaming of ONLINE Super Smash Bros., Metroid Prime 3, and more on the Revolution. It's just... a seamless blend between the systems....
The trinity of devices would be like this:
Evolution & Revolution would share the same SD cards for playing classic games, while you could use the Revolution as your wireless hub for the Nintendo DS, and manage your downloads or chat with people via the DS VOIP software. This would place each of the three pillars in their proper places.
1. Revolution = The CENTER of the temple, all gameplay begins here. It uses the Nintendo DS and the Game Boy Evolution as controllers, equals, etc.
2. Nintendo DS = The WALLS of the temple, all productivity, management, and more happen here. The Nintendo DS would be able to use the Revolution like a router. You may also be able to use the Nintendo DS as a controller or secondary display in some games.
3. Evolution = The DOORS to the temple, much of the spoils from the CENTER of the temple may be taken to far off lands and enjoyed away from the base.
The Evolution and Nintendo DS would not work with each other, but they would work with the Revolution differently. Thus, it is to the advantage of the consumer to have all three. Of course, there could be games that used all three at the same time. Let me get long winded and explain that.
I would build an RPG. In this RPG, data is sent to the SD card as your character progresses. You would use the Nintendo DS as your controller in the main game. As you progress, you build up mini-missions that you can not play on the Revolution. Pop out that SD Card and pop it into the Evolution to take part in those mini-missions. Download new mini-missions via the Revolution using your DS as a controller, then play those mini-missions on your GBE. It's a pretty awesome idea. We'll see.
In a racer, you can use the Nintendo DS transmitting data back and forth to the Revolution as you tune up your car, fix up stuff, and customize your ride via the touch screen system. Then take that ride on the go via SD for extra races and challenge. What?
Joji 28 May 2005 16:06
8/15
Weird that this kind of contraditory news comes straight after E3 where Nintendo said the opposite. I smell a rat but I'll take this news post with a large pinch of salt.
If it doesn't come from the horses mouth it's not really reliable in this kind of case. Indeed people, 2007 is far too late and as far as I can see would be tantamount to financial suicide with PS3 and Xbox360 cleaning up the market. By then who would want a REV? Nintendo have also said that the REV is made easier and cheaper to develop games. If this is the case games should be ready for the systems launch and not take so long into 2007. Also don't forget the REV specs will be known by the end of 2005, so to then launch it in 2007 would be pure madness.
I really don't see this happening because Nintendo know that being a late pupil to class and underestimating the competition is what lost them in the last home console race. They have done this twice with N64 and GC and I don't see the doing it again. More so especially after the successful launch of the DS.
The very fact the DS got out of the door so early has already caused Sony big problems with the PSP and will know doubt be very effective in keeping the handheld market for Nintendo along with the upcoming GBA Micro.
So I'm gonna look at the 2006 release (atlaest in japan) to be more realistic still. Also in a recent interview with Gamespot, Nintendo comrade George Harrison said that they plan to see what price MS sets for Xbox360 before deciding on the REV price. As of May 28th 2005, a bit of news has appeared with Xbox360 being priced at $300. Now obviously REV is gonna be cheaper than $300 like the GC (also because it's using some GC tech), so Nintendo would have to get the REV out atleast six months after Xbox360 in order to beat PS3. It shouldn't be a problem for them to do either. This would also make sense because I know they sure as hell don't wanna be last out of the door for a third time. If they are last again it's game over Nintendo and they might be sticking to handhelds in the future.
If it doesn't come from the horses mouth it's not really reliable in this kind of case. Indeed people, 2007 is far too late and as far as I can see would be tantamount to financial suicide with PS3 and Xbox360 cleaning up the market. By then who would want a REV? Nintendo have also said that the REV is made easier and cheaper to develop games. If this is the case games should be ready for the systems launch and not take so long into 2007. Also don't forget the REV specs will be known by the end of 2005, so to then launch it in 2007 would be pure madness.
I really don't see this happening because Nintendo know that being a late pupil to class and underestimating the competition is what lost them in the last home console race. They have done this twice with N64 and GC and I don't see the doing it again. More so especially after the successful launch of the DS.
The very fact the DS got out of the door so early has already caused Sony big problems with the PSP and will know doubt be very effective in keeping the handheld market for Nintendo along with the upcoming GBA Micro.
So I'm gonna look at the 2006 release (atlaest in japan) to be more realistic still. Also in a recent interview with Gamespot, Nintendo comrade George Harrison said that they plan to see what price MS sets for Xbox360 before deciding on the REV price. As of May 28th 2005, a bit of news has appeared with Xbox360 being priced at $300. Now obviously REV is gonna be cheaper than $300 like the GC (also because it's using some GC tech), so Nintendo would have to get the REV out atleast six months after Xbox360 in order to beat PS3. It shouldn't be a problem for them to do either. This would also make sense because I know they sure as hell don't wanna be last out of the door for a third time. If they are last again it's game over Nintendo and they might be sticking to handhelds in the future.
dmgice 28 May 2005 21:32
9/15
Hmm.. I don't think 2007 would be suicide for Nintendo on a few factors.
The RSW for the PS3 isn't even done yet. The final system specs for that system won't be locked in until near the end of September, early October. Actual production on the console won't be completely off the ground until January or so.
Nintendo won't reveal the specifications for the Revolution until around the end of October, or the beginning of November. They want to make sure Sony is locked in first. That way, they can announce some tasty specs, sprinkle that with screens and more game announcements, than top it all off with some controller... just in time for the launch of the Xbox 360. That way, if anything on the Revolution is HIGHER than the PS3 (Like Memory Bandwidth or speed), it will be too late for Sony to toss their system back to formula without screwing their stock supply. (Like what they did with the PSP, when they upped the RAM; but ended up throwing the system production schedule back.. effectively screwing them.)
The Revolution chipset won't be locked in until around February 2006. The system may go into production around May or June. The device will be playable at E3. Now, in order to meet demand, Nintendo may have to hit in January or February 2007. Launching it in Christmas 2006 along with the Game Boy Evolution would be a bit demanding... so.. I think that a 2007 release date is not too far fetched. I mean, launching last in a generation? Didn't that happen with the Super Nintendo? Last I checked, that worked out for Nintendo. The N64 launched last with game CARTRIDGES and not game CDS. Had the N64 used CDs, we would not even be discussing Sony in the market as it currently is. Microsoft launched their system last this previous generation: That did not seem to hurt its sales in the USA.
A little of this really depends on Sony, actually. If the PS3 is $500USD+ than Nintendo can mosey until as much as March 2007 with no ill effects. The price point for the Revolution will probably be around $250. The Xbox 360 is the first out the door this year. Next E3 is pivotal for the system. Can the Xbox 360 drum up some noise? It may help Microsoft to consider buying space in West Hall instead of South Hall. If Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo are in the same area.. it would be like the glory days of Sega/Sony/Nintendo. Microsoft could trumpet some pure noise if they have a strong line-up of new titles in plain view.
I think the most effective blow Nintendo dealt Sony this year was the fact that.. across from half hearted PSP demos that crash and/or were ALREADY RELEASED.. was brand new, innovative, online, and extremely sexy new Nintendo DS software. Just.. there.. to be played.
Next year, the Revolution will be the big time. Nintendo will have Super Smash Bros. Melee 2 as their trumpet title. Metroid Prime 3, and Animal Crossing will be sitting there as well. We'll have two rings of Game Boy Micros, two rings of Nintendo DS, the Game Boy Evolution on display/or for play, and -of course- a far section of the booth devoted to 4Kids and the irresistable Pokemon franchise. (Which will have Pokemon Diamond/Pearl on display, for play, on the Nintendo DS.)
The console race is about endurance, not speed. First car to dash out the gate is usually the first car out of the race. If the Nintendo Revolution does not come out before the PS3, that is not going to cause me to not buy it. I think that price point wise, Nintendo will be competing against the Xbox 360. So, if Microsoft does not have at least 30 to 40 AAA titles by or at next E3... than the success of the Revolution is a given.
The RSW for the PS3 isn't even done yet. The final system specs for that system won't be locked in until near the end of September, early October. Actual production on the console won't be completely off the ground until January or so.
Nintendo won't reveal the specifications for the Revolution until around the end of October, or the beginning of November. They want to make sure Sony is locked in first. That way, they can announce some tasty specs, sprinkle that with screens and more game announcements, than top it all off with some controller... just in time for the launch of the Xbox 360. That way, if anything on the Revolution is HIGHER than the PS3 (Like Memory Bandwidth or speed), it will be too late for Sony to toss their system back to formula without screwing their stock supply. (Like what they did with the PSP, when they upped the RAM; but ended up throwing the system production schedule back.. effectively screwing them.)
The Revolution chipset won't be locked in until around February 2006. The system may go into production around May or June. The device will be playable at E3. Now, in order to meet demand, Nintendo may have to hit in January or February 2007. Launching it in Christmas 2006 along with the Game Boy Evolution would be a bit demanding... so.. I think that a 2007 release date is not too far fetched. I mean, launching last in a generation? Didn't that happen with the Super Nintendo? Last I checked, that worked out for Nintendo. The N64 launched last with game CARTRIDGES and not game CDS. Had the N64 used CDs, we would not even be discussing Sony in the market as it currently is. Microsoft launched their system last this previous generation: That did not seem to hurt its sales in the USA.
A little of this really depends on Sony, actually. If the PS3 is $500USD+ than Nintendo can mosey until as much as March 2007 with no ill effects. The price point for the Revolution will probably be around $250. The Xbox 360 is the first out the door this year. Next E3 is pivotal for the system. Can the Xbox 360 drum up some noise? It may help Microsoft to consider buying space in West Hall instead of South Hall. If Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo are in the same area.. it would be like the glory days of Sega/Sony/Nintendo. Microsoft could trumpet some pure noise if they have a strong line-up of new titles in plain view.
I think the most effective blow Nintendo dealt Sony this year was the fact that.. across from half hearted PSP demos that crash and/or were ALREADY RELEASED.. was brand new, innovative, online, and extremely sexy new Nintendo DS software. Just.. there.. to be played.
Next year, the Revolution will be the big time. Nintendo will have Super Smash Bros. Melee 2 as their trumpet title. Metroid Prime 3, and Animal Crossing will be sitting there as well. We'll have two rings of Game Boy Micros, two rings of Nintendo DS, the Game Boy Evolution on display/or for play, and -of course- a far section of the booth devoted to 4Kids and the irresistable Pokemon franchise. (Which will have Pokemon Diamond/Pearl on display, for play, on the Nintendo DS.)
The console race is about endurance, not speed. First car to dash out the gate is usually the first car out of the race. If the Nintendo Revolution does not come out before the PS3, that is not going to cause me to not buy it. I think that price point wise, Nintendo will be competing against the Xbox 360. So, if Microsoft does not have at least 30 to 40 AAA titles by or at next E3... than the success of the Revolution is a given.
dmgice 28 May 2005 21:42
10/15
Oh, dash it.. a little more research appears to have shown that the Spring of 2007 may be the EUROPEAN launch date. The Japanese and North American launch would probably be in 2006. While a 2007 worldwide launch would be more relaxed (More ducks in a row).... a 2006-2007 launch window would place the Revolution in Europe... possibly BEFORE the PS3.
I highly doubt that Microsoft will have the Xbox 360 in Europe until rather close to E3 2006, no matter what they say. So, Nintendo is fine, Europe is a great market, but if Nintendo launched the Revolution in Europe in very early 2007.. that would not hurt them. Especially since that would mean Nintendo would be in China by June 2007. We should not forget that market. There several hundred million viable customers in China. Taking a slice from that market quickly will be one of the bigger factors in the next generation race. Considering that the Revolution ENCOURAGES you to download older titles to it.. that places Nintendo into a unique position of being completely in tune with that burgeoning market.
I highly doubt that Microsoft will have the Xbox 360 in Europe until rather close to E3 2006, no matter what they say. So, Nintendo is fine, Europe is a great market, but if Nintendo launched the Revolution in Europe in very early 2007.. that would not hurt them. Especially since that would mean Nintendo would be in China by June 2007. We should not forget that market. There several hundred million viable customers in China. Taking a slice from that market quickly will be one of the bigger factors in the next generation race. Considering that the Revolution ENCOURAGES you to download older titles to it.. that places Nintendo into a unique position of being completely in tune with that burgeoning market.
BustyKrusty 29 May 2005 11:00
11/15
Philip Wesley wrote:
I think that price point wise, Nintendo will be competing against the Xbox 360. So, if Microsoft does not have at least 30 to 40 AAA titles by or at next E3... than the success of the Revolution is a given.
Price point wise, Nintendo will be competing against Xbox360 and PS3(same price), more powerful machines, with Revolution multiplatform support questionable.So, if Nintendo does not want to stick to handhelds its principal strtegy should be: hey!,let's rebuild those lost contacts to have 30-40 titles ready for the launch,and not remakes of countless, useless GBoymicroz...whatever,f**k just give me PSP.
Also you suggested Revolution would be out before PS3.
Do you realize theres no games announced yet and not even specs for the Revolution.It's silly thinking it'll be out sooner unless Sony factories are totally obsolete.
On the other hand i'm greatly looking forward to all the Revolution-DS old school downloadable stuff, awesome!
Now, if Nintendo takes MS lightly that 2nd place will be nothing but a distant dream of a long doomed Dreamcast.
dmgice 30 May 2005 02:03
12/15
I don't know where you have been in the last few weeks, but the price point for the Xbox 360 is about $300 and the price point for the PS3 is in the field of $400. Nintendo needs to hit the $250 sweet spot to do damage.
As for Revolution games?
Nintendo already announced a few at E3.
Super Smash Bros. Melee 2 (Online)
Animal Crossing R
Metroid Prime 3
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles 2 (Online)
The usual standbys of course.
A Super Mario Bros. game (Mentioned at the conference.)
A Legend of Zelda game (Well, duh. They mentioned this at the conference.)
Madden 2007 (One of the little mentions from EA)
More games will be announced at E3 2006, of course. The Revolution is also physically backwards compatible with the Game Cube and virtually backwards compatible with the NES, SNES, and N64.
The chipset for the Revolution isn't done yet and neither is the final chipset for the PS3. The PS3's main chip won't be done until around late SEPTEMBER.
I think a lot of analysts over estimate the Xbox 360 in terms of sales potential. In the world wide market, the Xbox was dead last in terms of software and hardware sales this last generation. This looks like it will be repeated again this generation.
Development kits for the Revolution will ship out after the controller and final specs are announced this October. That gives companies eight monthes to throw some stuff together for E3. So, the device is on track. When I said that the Revolution may make it to Europe BEFORE the PS3, I was being realistic. I mean, ask anyone in Europe who did not import, how they are enjoying the PSP right now. The PSP comes out in Japan in December, takes three monthes to get to the USA and then six monthes to get to Europe. So, the PSP will launch a grand NINE monthes after being initially released. Production on the PS3 will not even begin until after the RSW is done in late September. So, production begins as early as October 2005, and you and I both know that Sony will stagger the production and release schedule to create an articial shortage. Just being realistic here.
Also, the Game Boy Micro is aimed at two scenes, which I am sure you do not fall into.
1. Hardcore Fans.
2. Softcore Consumers.
The device will launch in the Back to School time table in the USA, and most likely Europe as well. I think the strategy with the Micro is to have it on the shelves in Europe the week before, or the same week as, the PSP launch in Europe in a bundle with the Play Yan. The idea is that people go in to the store and see a sleek new handheld that plays a ton of games as well as MP3s and Movies for less than half the cost of the other sleek new handheld. So, they suddenly have a choice. They can get a large, fragile handheld system with so-so battery life, and at least one game for about 300 or so pounds. OR they can buy a tiny, sturdy handheld with better battery life, and then buy a half a dozen games for the same price. Both systems can play music and movies. (In the same movie format, no less.)
Add on the ability to customize the Micro onto that and you have a bit of a problem for Sony. The Micro won't be a huge spoiler for the PSP launch, but it will eat away a few of the potential customers. Also, Nintendo of Europe is a lot better at marketing their products than Nintendo of America. They'll find away to put a Micro in every purse, day bag, and satchel this Winter. The Japanese launch of the Micro will probably be a Christmas deal and will hurt the Xbox 360 in a lot of subtle ways. Not that the Xbox 360 was going to sell in droves in Japan anyways.....
As for Revolution games?
Nintendo already announced a few at E3.
Super Smash Bros. Melee 2 (Online)
Animal Crossing R
Metroid Prime 3
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles 2 (Online)
The usual standbys of course.
A Super Mario Bros. game (Mentioned at the conference.)
A Legend of Zelda game (Well, duh. They mentioned this at the conference.)
Madden 2007 (One of the little mentions from EA)
More games will be announced at E3 2006, of course. The Revolution is also physically backwards compatible with the Game Cube and virtually backwards compatible with the NES, SNES, and N64.
The chipset for the Revolution isn't done yet and neither is the final chipset for the PS3. The PS3's main chip won't be done until around late SEPTEMBER.
I think a lot of analysts over estimate the Xbox 360 in terms of sales potential. In the world wide market, the Xbox was dead last in terms of software and hardware sales this last generation. This looks like it will be repeated again this generation.
Development kits for the Revolution will ship out after the controller and final specs are announced this October. That gives companies eight monthes to throw some stuff together for E3. So, the device is on track. When I said that the Revolution may make it to Europe BEFORE the PS3, I was being realistic. I mean, ask anyone in Europe who did not import, how they are enjoying the PSP right now. The PSP comes out in Japan in December, takes three monthes to get to the USA and then six monthes to get to Europe. So, the PSP will launch a grand NINE monthes after being initially released. Production on the PS3 will not even begin until after the RSW is done in late September. So, production begins as early as October 2005, and you and I both know that Sony will stagger the production and release schedule to create an articial shortage. Just being realistic here.
Also, the Game Boy Micro is aimed at two scenes, which I am sure you do not fall into.
1. Hardcore Fans.
2. Softcore Consumers.
The device will launch in the Back to School time table in the USA, and most likely Europe as well. I think the strategy with the Micro is to have it on the shelves in Europe the week before, or the same week as, the PSP launch in Europe in a bundle with the Play Yan. The idea is that people go in to the store and see a sleek new handheld that plays a ton of games as well as MP3s and Movies for less than half the cost of the other sleek new handheld. So, they suddenly have a choice. They can get a large, fragile handheld system with so-so battery life, and at least one game for about 300 or so pounds. OR they can buy a tiny, sturdy handheld with better battery life, and then buy a half a dozen games for the same price. Both systems can play music and movies. (In the same movie format, no less.)
Add on the ability to customize the Micro onto that and you have a bit of a problem for Sony. The Micro won't be a huge spoiler for the PSP launch, but it will eat away a few of the potential customers. Also, Nintendo of Europe is a lot better at marketing their products than Nintendo of America. They'll find away to put a Micro in every purse, day bag, and satchel this Winter. The Japanese launch of the Micro will probably be a Christmas deal and will hurt the Xbox 360 in a lot of subtle ways. Not that the Xbox 360 was going to sell in droves in Japan anyways.....
DaPistolPat 30 May 2005 02:36
13/15
BustyKrusty wrote:
.......Price point wise, Nintendo will be competing against Xbox360 and PS3(same price), more powerful machines,.....
Whoa buddy there has been no confirmed price point for the PS3, which is rumored to be very pricey like($500) dollar pricey. Also Nintendo has not confirmed a price either, but rumors do point to a ($199) Price point. But, as i said The Big N and Baloney I mean Sony (not to say that Sony would try and copy and one up M$ strategy and structure for their preE3 press conference) have no Price yet or launch date.
Ditto 30 May 2005 08:32
14/15
I hate to be a killjoy, but I still think that DS sales will trail off behind the PSP. Games such as Nintendogs will reverse this trend for a temporary period but eventually DS sales will drop below the PSP. I'm not saying the DS will be a failure, just that it will not remain market leader.
Well, why do I think that? The DS isn't a nice looking console. The launch titles were poor. The release schedule is still bare, and few more major titles have been announced since last year's E3. I think it'll do an N64, poor sales except when major games are released and an early demise.
The Gameboy Micro is a totally different and more consumer-orientated approach to gaming. It's gone for style an novelty over new functionality, and I have no doubts it will sell well. These are the kind of products Nintendo needs to create.
I think that in order to see long-term DS survival it will have to be revised to make it more aesthetically pleasing, and that Nintendo will have to start begging third parties to release games. Strength of the GB in its monopoly position was that it boasted basically every publisher releasing games - similar to the NES before Sega started eating Nintendo due to N's lack of responsiveness to the market.
Revolution too, I think, marks a change. It's a grown up console, and should attract non-Nintendo audiences if the games are right.
In terms of launch date, I would expect mid-2006 for US/Japan and early-2007 for the UK. I just hope they get their indie development kits out quickly and that they're not too expensive!
Most telling here is one of the Nintendo staff in a recent interview saying that they were concerned about reaction to the GB Micro since Nintendo hadn't done any market research or conducted any focus groups (will try to find reference).
Product-orientation is dangerous in the modern marketplace.
Well, why do I think that? The DS isn't a nice looking console. The launch titles were poor. The release schedule is still bare, and few more major titles have been announced since last year's E3. I think it'll do an N64, poor sales except when major games are released and an early demise.
The Gameboy Micro is a totally different and more consumer-orientated approach to gaming. It's gone for style an novelty over new functionality, and I have no doubts it will sell well. These are the kind of products Nintendo needs to create.
I think that in order to see long-term DS survival it will have to be revised to make it more aesthetically pleasing, and that Nintendo will have to start begging third parties to release games. Strength of the GB in its monopoly position was that it boasted basically every publisher releasing games - similar to the NES before Sega started eating Nintendo due to N's lack of responsiveness to the market.
Revolution too, I think, marks a change. It's a grown up console, and should attract non-Nintendo audiences if the games are right.
In terms of launch date, I would expect mid-2006 for US/Japan and early-2007 for the UK. I just hope they get their indie development kits out quickly and that they're not too expensive!
Most telling here is one of the Nintendo staff in a recent interview saying that they were concerned about reaction to the GB Micro since Nintendo hadn't done any market research or conducted any focus groups (will try to find reference).
Product-orientation is dangerous in the modern marketplace.
YenRug 30 May 2005 12:15
15/15
Adam M wrote:
I hate to be a killjoy, but I still think that DS sales will trail off behind the PSP. Games such as Nintendogs will reverse this trend for a temporary period but eventually DS sales will drop below the PSP. I'm not saying the DS will be a failure, just that it will not remain market leader.
Well, why do I think that? The DS isn't a nice looking console. The launch titles were poor. The release schedule is still bare, and few more major titles have been announced since last year's E3. I think it'll do an N64, poor sales except when major games are released and an early demise.
Well, why do I think that? The DS isn't a nice looking console. The launch titles were poor. The release schedule is still bare, and few more major titles have been announced since last year's E3. I think it'll do an N64, poor sales except when major games are released and an early demise.
Your opinion might have held water if Japan hadn't already proved otherwise. After the PSP launch DS sales started to drop off, no new software didn't really help, and the PSP sales for this year were better. Now some new DS software has started turning up regularly the PSP sales (the PSP software sales have been very lacklustre) are dropping off and the DS sales are climbing again. Within the next couple of weeks the DS will be overtaking the PSP sales for the year and with the headstart they had they will be opening up their lead even more. With increasing DS software sales and underperforming PSP software sales, that's going to push developers into choosing one system over the other.