Nintendo Direct 12.04.2017

After the unfortunate passing of Nintendo President Satoru Iwata nearly two years ago Nintendo Directs have become quite the rarity. And while the Nintendo Switch event was held in similar spirit, the formal atmosphere couldn't match the carefree fun the Directs often had.

If you missed the Directs as much as I did, I have good news for you. Tonight we got treated to another Nintendo Direct, focusing on ARMS and Splatoon 2. Two of the biggest upcoming titles for Nintendos new console. But of course other titles were also mentioned.

So was this a good Direct? First take a look for yourself.

Source

It was tightly packed and eventful, that is for sure, but let us start at the beginning. So after the Nintendo Switch event it seems Yoshiaki Koizumi is going to be the new, permanent host. And while he hasn't reached Satoru Iwatas level of charisma yet, I'm positive that he will grow into the role. Overall his presentation was a little bit stiff at times. Still overall I found the Direct rather charming and well done.

But, and this can't be denied, the whole presentation felt rather rushed. Apart from Splatoon 2 and ARMS no game got much more than a minute of screen time. Also there weren't any meaningful announcement, but more on that later. For now let us focus on the information that we were given.

We started of with a slew of 3DS titles, but really now meaningful information on any of them. Granted it were all games we had seen before, but still it felt really rushed. The information we got, apart from a very basic overview on the games, were mostly release dates. Still I find it reassuring that Nintendo still supports their six year old handheld. This reinforces their stand on the Switch being a true Home Console and not some sort of hybrid, which replaces the Wii-U and the 3DS.

And the titles coming to the handheld system aren't bad either. Ever Oasis and Monster Hunter Stories have me interested the most, but there seems to be something to enjoy for everybody. And the Pikmin game, which is now called Hey! Pikmin looks really good. It is a big departure from the main series, but as a Spin-off the 2D Side-Scrolling approach could really work.

But something that has become painfully clear is that Handheld game development is now entirely a Japanese Club. There has been no game announcement from a Western Studio for the 3DS. Not even from an Indie Studio. While the handheld market has always been eastern dominated it is a shame to see that the West seems to focus solely on Mobile Games nowadays.

Still I think most of us are fine with mostly Japanese games for the 3DS. And like I said earlier there is a wide array of different games and genres coming this year, so we have lots too look forward to. So far Nintendo does an excellent job in keeping the 3DS alive and I hope they will keep it that way for at least a year.

List of 3DS releases:

• Hey! Pikmin: 28^th July 2017
• Ever Oasis: 23^rd June 2017
• Monster Hunter Stories: Fall 2017
• YO-KAI Watch 2 Psychic Specters: Fall 2017
• Culdcept Revolt: 29^th August 2017
• RPG Maker Fes: 27^th June 2017
• Miitopia: 2017
• Fire Emblem Echoes DLC: 2017
• New Kirby Multiplayer Game: Holiday 2017

But of course the 3DS wasn't the only focus of this Direct. There will be also new Amiibos. First up the already speculated new Zelda Amiibos finally got confirmed. On 23^rd June Kid Link from Majoras Mask, Link from Skyward Sword and Link from Twilight Princess will come to stores. The Data Mined Skywards Sword and Fierce Deity Outfits from Breath of the Wild already revealed that these Amiibo were in the making, but now we finally have a release date.

But that's not all .Because soon we'll all be able to hold Bayonetta in our hands. Yes that's right. On 21^st July 2017 the final three Amiibos from the Smash Bros. Series, including our favorite Witch will launch.

And now let us get to the main event.

Even with only a hand full of games the Nintendo Switch launch has been a huge success. But, and this has to be said, launching with on of the best games in history (Breath of the Wild) won't be enough to sustain a long term success, if there isn't a steady support of other games. And in this regard I'm not fully behind the Switch yet. On 28^th April we'll get the definitive version of Mario Kart 8 with Mario Kart 8: Deluxe, but apart from that there is no truly big title coming till e3. At least fans of Japanese games can get the Switch without any worries.

While the support of Western developers is still in the air somehow it seems their Japanese colleges are fully behind Nintendos newest console.

But as for now, except from Sonic Forces, there is no big third party title announced for the Switch. Still if you missed out on the Wii-U the Swich is worth a purchase.

But were the 3^rd Party developers dropped the ball (till now) Nintendo luckily is ready to pick it up. While the Wii-U suffered a long drought of games after it's launch this time it seems they have a slew of titles ready to launch overt he coming months.

Just like with Splatoon when it was first unveiled, ARMS looks better and better with each showing. It seems they truly have packed the game full with great Multiplayer content. The short presentation of a fight between Spring Man and new Character Min Min really showcased the intense and quick fun this game will (hopefully) provide. I'm still unsure if ARMS is going to be the next big thing, but it seems like a solid multiplayer title which will be loads of fun with your friends.

ARMS launches on 16^th June 2017.

And only one month later we will be treated to the first true highlight of the Switches post launch line-up. Splatoon 2. As we all know the first game was a blowout success, especially in Japan where it even managed to outsell Final Fantasy 15 and Mario Kart 8. So of course the announcement of Splatoon 2 created a lot of buzz. After the original Splatoon was Nintendos first attempt at a Multiplayer Shooter Splatoon 2 now builds and expands on this basis. New Weapons, New Equipment and new Game modes.

If you're a Sony or Microsoft Gamer you're probably familiar with Horde Modes. They are quite popular in games like Gears of War or Call of Duty after all. Well now Nintendo only games can join the fun in Splatoon 2. The goal of this mode is to defend and survive against Waves of Enemies, who continuously grow stronger. It's a simple premise but with the right team of friends it's nearly endless fun.

The Nintendo Switch will get it's next System Seller on 21^st July 2017 when Splatoon 2 launches.

List of Switch releases:

• ARMS: 16^th June 2017
• Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: 28^th April 2017
• Ultra Street Fighter 2 The Final Challengers: 26^th May 2017
• Minecraft: 11^th May 2017
• Sonic Forces: Holiday 2017
• Sonic Mania: Summer 2017
• Project Mekuru (Working Title): Summer 2017
• Fate/Extella: 25^th July 2017
• Disgaea 5 Complete: 23^th May 2017
• Monopoly: Fall 2017
• Rayman Legends Definitive Edition: 2017
• Sine Mora EX: Summer 2017
• Battle Chasers Nightwar: (Late) Summer 2017
• Payday 2: 2017
• Namco Museum: Summer 2017
• Splatoon 2: 21^st July 2017

Verdict:

Was it a good Nintendo Direct? Well it was serviceable. Two months before e3 2017 I didn't expect a slew of unannounced games. Still with no announcement at all this only furthered my expectaions for Nintendos e3 presence this year. Only focusing on games we already know won't be enough. The Nintendo Switch needs to keep it's momentum and for this it needs the Hype of big announcements.

In regards to the Switch the Direct did it's job, but also reinforced the fear of the console being a Nintendo only machine once more. At least the support from Japanese developers seems to be a given, but even there the big titles are missing so far. All we get in the upcoming months are Indie and Retro titles. For the start this is enough, especially with Breath of the Wild keeping everyone busy, but in the long run the Switch needs to secure a steady supply of high profile titles to avoid the fate of the Wii-U.

But the Direct wasn't only doom and gloom. Because the first part, focusing on the 3DS, was really great, but also really rushed. It reinforced Nintenods statement that the Switch won't replace their dedicated Handheld. Instead they are focusing quite the resources into creating a lot of good games. Once again it is very Japanese focused content, but it is hardly Nintendos fault that most Western Studios nowadays associate mobile gaming with Phones and Tablets.

Overall it was a good Direct without any surprises or major upsets. The continued support of the 3DS is great and I withhold my judgement about the Switch until we have a clearer picture. Hopefully this will be the case after this years e3.

What are your thoughts on this Direct? Let me know in the comments.

And as always

thanks for reading

 Picture Source

Top 5 DLC for Nintendo Games

I'm very sorry about the break last week, but different obligations and a nasty flu kept me from producing any content for the blog. I hope you can understand. But now things should be back to normal.

So this announcement created some waves last week.

Video Source

For the first time in history a main line Zelda Game would receive additional content. And to say the reaction to this was mixed would be an understatement. Now in this post I won't judge this decision. This will have to wait until this weeks Thoughtpiece. Instead I want to focus on the past times Nintendo decided to create DLC for their Games. So here is, without further ado, the five times Nintendo did DLC right.

5: Super Smash Bros. for Wii-U/3DS

Now this is a little bit controversial of a pic because the Game got a lot of flak for it's DLC and I can see why, but overall I think the DLC for Smash Bros. was done very well.

Fighting Games are always a little bit iffy when it comes to DLC. Things that should be unlockables in the game are often sold instead. Even Smash Bros. is no exception to that with the countless costumes sold for Mii Characters. But I'm willing to forgive this because of the huge amount of content and costumes already present in the basic game.

And while the Mii Costumes weren't exactly a stellar example for DLC the characters themselves are. Bayonetta, Cloud and Co. are DLC done right. Sometimes people tend to forget how much work it is to create a character from the ground up for a Fighting Game. Looking at those DLC characters from this angle, I don't think the are overpriced. Especially those which also include a new stage.

Also most of those characters play very unique and offer a different experience from the fighters in the base game. They are also quite well balanced and fit right into the Meta.

Picture Source

It is clear that Sakurai and his team did their homework with each and every one of those DLC characters. They are a lot of fun and if you play Smash Bros. regularly they are worth their money. And that is what good DLC is all about.

4: Fire Emblem Fates: Revelation

I am one of the loudest critics of Fire Emblem: Fates. The decision to split the game into two parts still leaves a bitter aftertaste in my mouth, even though each part is a fully playable game. Also the blatant and stupid censorship in the title didn't help.

But I'm also the first one to admit that the game is really, really good. Birthright and Conquest both tell a great and engaging story and playing them both gives you a deeper insight into a complicated conflict and backstory. But what if you didn't choose either, Nohr or Hoshido? What if you choose your own path? For anyone also asking this question Nintendo released Fire Emblem Fates: Revelation. A DLC for the the game that has exactly this question as basis.

Picture Source

Instead of choosing one of your two families, you instead reject both and head out to forge your own path. It is an interesting concept and very well done. It is a completely new game and more than worth it's money.

3: Hyrule Warriors

Hyrule Warriors DLC was announced similarly to the Breath of the Wild Expansion Pass. You got some skins directly and a general outlier of what was planned, but no specific information what exactly was part of the DLC. We didn't know which characters would be included only their number. They repeated this vagueness with Hyrule Warriors Legends and I can understand that some people are upset about this practice. When I pay 15$ for a DLC without really knowing what I'm going to get in return, it will always leave a bad aftertaste. Buying the Cat in the bag never feels good.

Picture Source

In the End Hyrule Warriors offered pretty good by the Numbers DLC. Nothing to special or surprising, but a solid extension of the classic game. But it didn't truly offer anything new. Now don't get me wrong. Extending on the main game, adding new characters and adventure maps is fine. And the the fact that this DLC offering is Number 3 on this list, speaks volumes. Still I missed something. New Stages or a new Game Mode would have done wonders for Hyrule Warriors.

But the offering was still excellent. The new characters often had a fresh approach and lots of fan favorites got added this way. Also the DLC Maps for the Adventure Mode played really differently from the original. The factor that holds this DLC offering back from raising further on this list is the lack of new stages to fight on. Even the best stages, like Skyloft, get boring if you have to do them over a hundred times. So to truly become a excellent DLC Hyrule Warriors would have needed some more variety in it's offering.

2: Mario Kart 8

Well it was clear that this game would be on this list and I think many of you probably expected it to be Number One. And while it didn't quite actually make it to the top it's still the absolute best DLC in terms of value. For only 12$ you'll get six new characters, eight new carts and 16 new courses. The value this DLC provides is just insane. Especially because the courses are amongst the best in the entire series. Wild Woods is probably my favorite racing course in any game ever. But enough about me and my love for that course. Instead let us talk about why this DLC is so excellent.

Mario Kart 8s DLC is the epitome of more of the same, which isn't a problem if that means you'll get more of the best course design in any Kart Racer. It can't be stressed enough that the new tracks are the absolute top of the crop. Even the reworks of classic tracks are excellent. Tracks like Ribbon Road are hardly recognizable with their origins. They look and feel like completely new courses.

And while the characters aren't as exciting they still do their job well and the inclusion of Link opened up the possibility of a true Nintendo All-Stars Racing in the future.

Picture Source

So while Mario Kart 8s DLC is truly excellent and is still the absolute Number One in terms of value, why didn't it take the Number One spot on this list. Well it's because the DLC doesn't offer anything new. Like I said earlier it's just more of the same, which isn't a problem, but DLC should also be a possibility to build on the foundation and expand to something new. It doesn't always have to be that way, but if done right, it will result in absolutely amazing DLC.

1: Super Luigi U.

Now some of you may say that this is just a level pack for Super Mario Bros. U and with that statement you couldn't be further from the truth. One the first glance it may seem this way. It is just a level pack for Super Mario Bros. U offering 96 new courses to complete. And instead of Mario you can play as Luigi with his unique controls (Higher Jumps, lower friction). But this is only a very superficial look at this game. Super Luigi U is much more than just a level pack for the original. Instead it is a true expansion. Something that uses the same foundations, but creates an entirely new experience.

Picture Source

You see in Super Lugi U you'll only have one hundred seconds for each level. This has a huge influence on level design and on how you approach the stages. Speed is an essential ingredient of this game. This fact, coupled with the higher difficulty of the game, creates an entirely different experience than Super Mario Bros. U, without departing so much from the core that it becomes an entirely new game.

It is hard to describe with only words, but the flow of Super Luigi U. differs completely from Super Mario Bros. U. And that is why Super Luigi U. is an excellent DLC. It's the perfect way of progressing past the end of the original. If you've mastered Super Mario Bros. U, you're prepared for Luigi U. It gives Veteran Mario players a new challenge and new experience in one package. And because of that it's still my favorite DLC for a Nintendo Game.

So what are your thoughts on DLCs in Nintendo Games? Which ones did you enjoy and which ones aren't worth their money? Let me know your opinions in the comments below.

And as always

thanks for reading

My Top 5 Games, which deserve a Port for the Nintendo Switch

Several weeks ago Nintendo finally revealed the Switch, but if you thought that the Rumors would stop because of that, oh boy you were wrong. Quite the contrary to be honest. Now that we know the basics of the Switch the rumor mills have been sent into overdrive. Of course it didn't help that Nintendo has still kept many things about the Switch a secret. From its price to its power to the launch line up. The Switch event in January will surely shed some light on that, and I understand that Nintendo wants the Holiday focus firmly on Pokemon Sun and Moon and the Nintendo NES Mini, but you can't really blame the people for craving more information.

In regards of the launch line-up something that is often mentioned are ports of popular Wii-U Games. Or to be more precise enhanced Ports featuring better graphics and more content. And while I as Wii-U owner am not excited about this, but I can see why this is an attractive prospect for Nintendo. It's an easy way of inciting new buyers to get the Switch if they get the Best of Wii-U games next to brand new switch titles. And that is also todays topic. I'd like to present to you my Top 5 Wii-U Games, which should get a enhanced Switch port.

5: Super Mario Maker

Source

Super Mario Maker is the (near) perfect 2D Mario experience. It's level design toolkit has shown how imaginative the fanbase can be. And also how cruel, unforgiving and sadistic. And after creating a subpar Port for the Nintendo 3DS I think Super Mario Maker: Switch could be the perfect way for Nintendo to redeem themselves. They just have to make it compatible with the Wii-U Version and you already have Millions of unique levels to play. But what should they do to enhance the port?

Well that is simple. Add new things to the toolkit. Different Stage themes like Desert, Snow or Lava World. Add a new graphical style. For example the Style used for the Lost Levels in Super Mario Allstars. Add new enemies and slopes and so forth. It is really simple to enhance this game. Also they could offer these additions to the Wii-U Version as either free or paid DLC. This would ensure that both, the Swith and the Wii-U Version of the game, remain compatible.

I think it's still to early to release another entry into the New Super Mario Bros. series, so this port could help to fill the craving for new 2D Mario games without tiring the fanbase. It's an easy guess and I would be shocked if we didn't see Super Mario Maker in any form or capacity on the Nintendo Switch.

4: Mario Kart 8

Source

I think this is the rumored port that I'm least excited for. Mario Kart 8 is an excellent game, but I don't think a Port of it would be that great. Rumors suggest that it would contain several new tracks as well as an improved battle mode. I was never the biggest fan of battle mode, so I don't care much about that and new tracks are fine and well, but I'd prefer a complete Mario Kart 9 instead.

But it can't be denied that Mario Kart 8 would be a sure System Seller on the Switch. It has an insane attach rate on the Wii-U after all. Also it wouldn't be to hard to create an enhanced port of the game. I guess they'd add four more cups, bringing the number of cups to sixteen, which is double the amount than in a normal Mario Kart game.

Next to following game I think Mario Kart 8: Enhanced Edition is the safest bet on this whole list.

3: Super Smash Bros.

Source

Include all DLC characters, stages and costumes and you're done. People would eat this game up. If you want to be extremely generous also add some stages from the 3DS version, the Ice Climbers and a true Single Player Mode.

Super Smash Bros. for Wii-U is one of the greatest video games ever created. It has an insane amount of content and a great battle system. But it also took a long time to create and even cost Sakurai some of his health, so I don't think he and his team are ready to create a new one soon. An enhanced Port of the Wii-U Version would solve this problem and give the Switch one of the biggest games ever created for its launch.

Smash Bros is one of the series that nearly everyone wants to play and getting the most complete one with all DLC and bonus content included would create a big incentive to buy a Nintendo Switch. I think a port of this game is pretty much guaranteed. It's even more likely than Mario Kart 8.

2: Hyrule Warriors

Source

This may come as a surprise to some of you, but I think this game could really benefit from an enhanced port. Bringing together the content from Wii-U and 3DS alone would create a huge game, but if they include even more characters, for example Fan Favorite Groose, which wouldn't justify a full sequel by themselves, this port would be absolutely jacked full of content. It could also bridge the gap until the Breath of the Wild release, if the rumored delay is true.

Hyrule Warriors isn't a classic Zelda game, but it is the ultimate Zelda fan game. I know several people, who didn't buy a Wii-U and weren't interested in playing the game on the small 3DS Screen. For this people this could be a great incentive to buy the Switch. Especially because they know they'll also get a real Zelda game within the first year.

By combining the content from 3DS and Wii-U as well as adding a handful of new characters and stages they could create an Ultimate Version of the Ultimate Zelda Fan Game.

1: Xenoblade Chronicles X

Source

Xenoblade is the best game on the Wii-U. It is better than Bayonetta or Mario 3D World or even Donkey Kong: Tropical Freeze. The only game hoping to dethrone it is Breath of the Wild.

The World of Mira is one of the best designed alien worlds I have ever experienced. Seeing it in full HD and 60FPS on the Nintendo Switch would be a dream come true.

Xenoblade is the perfect candidate for an enhanced port, because of it's low sales figures on the Wii-U. If the Switch manages to capture some Hardcore Gamers this game could very well be one of the reasons why. A huge, complex RPG may not be a System seller in itself, but it could very well be the tipping point at which many consider buying the system.

Also Mira deserves to be experienced by as much people as possible.

That would be my five suggestions for enhanced ports on the Nintendo Switch. Releasing those over the course of the first year together with several new games would give the System as solid library that satisfies every Nintendo Fan. Oh and before you ask why Splatoon isn't on this list. It's because I really want a true Splatoon 2 including playable Octolings.

So what games would you like to see ported to the Switch? Or are you against remastering and rehashing every remotely successful game from the previous generation? Let me know your thoughts in the comments.

And as always

thanks for reading

My Top 5 Nintendo Fan Games

As we all know Nintendo has a pretty strained relationship with Fan Games. Even though they are often passion projects that do their source material justice. Luckily Nintendos battle against the creators is often times a fight they can't win, because the Internet doesn't forget. But it's also quite frustrating if the company behind the characters you love does everything in their might to fight against your passion project. And because many of these great games deserve some spotlight I want to share my Top 5 Nintendo Fan Games with you.

5: Project M

Source

We start with a ''game'' that is pretty well known in the Nintendo Fanbase. Project M is a modification to Super Smash Bros. Brawl that makes the game resemble Melee more closely. But that is not all. It also features some new (old) characters with Roy and Mewtwo as well as splitting up Samus and Zero Suit Samus, Sheik and Zelda as well as the Pokemon from the Pokemon Trainer.

As far as Modifications go this one is quite extensive and that is why I consider it as its own game. Until further development on the project was stopped in December 2015 it was a huge success and even featured on some national tournaments.

Project M was big success and a great passion project from several Super Smash Bros. Melee Fans from all over the world. If you're a Smash Bros. Fan and own a homebrewed Wii give it a go. It's great.

4: Kaizo Mario

Source

No other Fan Game spawned such a cult following. No other Fan Game has a dedicated Speedrunner Community surrounding it. For many Kaizo Mario is the definitive Fan Game. At its heart it's just a Super Mario World modification with some new levels. But the difference between the original and the Fan game becomes quite evident in the first seconds of play.

Kaizo Mario is brutal, unforgiving and often just plain evil. It was the blueprint for many other Kaizo Games and to this day I haven't even beaten the first boss. Which is fucking unfair I may add, but I digress.

Kaizo Mario is an experiences. If good or bad you have to decide for yourself. But I urge everyone to at least try it once. Even if it's just to see how much you suck at Mario. And trust me you do.

3: Newer Super Mario Bros. Wii

Source

Crafted over the Span of 3 Years Newer Super Mario Bros. Wii is more than just a modification of the original game. It's a brand new one. 128 all new levels, new Bosses, new Power Ups... The Size of this Project is amazing. The different Worlds are filled with detail and love and the themes are unique, all the way from a Halloween themed World into Space.

I cannot give this game a higher praise than call it a full fledged Mario game. It's just not made by Nintendo themselves.

2: Another Metroid 2 Remake:

Source

In the last couple of weeks this project got a lot of spot light and it was much deserved. Even before the unnecessary Takedown request by Nintendo this game was on my radar. Metroid 2 is still a good game, but it has aged quite poorly. The monochromatic graphics of the original GameBoy didn't do the varied world justice. With the updated visuals this truly is a completely new game as far as I'm concerned.

Luckily the developer still continues the work on this project and even though it can't be found on his blog anymore there are more than enough sources all over the Internet.

1: Pokemon Uranium:

Source

And finally we have the Number 1. Pokemon Uranium is a full fledged Pokemon Game over 9 Years in the Making. Brand new Pokemon, a brand new zone and countless new Sprites. If you show this to someone, who doesn't know, it would be easy to convince them that this is a real Pokemon game. Simply because it is.

It looks and plays just like the originals. So if you're looking for something nostalgic, but new at the same time, this is the perfect game. It's a loveletter from the developers towards the Pokemon Franchise and it deserves all of the support it can get.

This weeks Top List may be a little short. This is because of the release of World of Warcraft Legion, which will probably soak up my time for the next couple of days. Still I intend to release a Thoughtpiece on Wednesday.

And as always

thanks for reading

Nintendo Direct 12.11.15

Now that we had some days to calm down and look back at this direct without rose tinted Hype glasses, I have to say, that it was a pretty good direct. There was nothing that literally blew my mind and left me speechless, but it had the right amount of announcements and content to keep me satisfied. Of course the 3DS was once again the clear winner and if you like RPGs this Direct was probably the best one in years for you, but even as a more Wii-U centric gamer I didn't feel let down. We got some announcements for 2016 and some remainders for 2015. Yes I would have preferred Twilight Princess HD releasing this year to beef up their Christmas Line-Up, but the way it is, it will provide a good start into 2016 and the 30^th anniversary of Zelda.

We also got a short trailer for Star Fox Zero and a release date. I really like the way the game looks, even though the graphics are really nothing to brag about. But the different vehicles look interesting and should provide different gameplay approaches. And for me Gameplay always matters more than raw graphical horse power.

We also got the final confirmation that Nintendo intends to milk Amiibo for all that it's worth.

I don't want to go into too much detail, but all in all it was a pretty good direct and it ended with a high note. Hands up if you honestly thought that Cloud was a possibility for Smash Bros.

Yeah I thought so...

Anyone who hasn't seen the Direct can take a look at it here.

Amercian Direct:  

European (German) Direct:  

This post today is a little short, but expect a longer one about Linkle in the coming days.

And as always

thanks for reading  

E3 2015 predictions (and wishful thinking)

picture source: Nintendo

The E3 is upon us and we already know almost everything. Fallout 4 got unveiled, Hyrule Warriors 3D, the new Smash Bros. Characters, and lots of other games were we already knew they would appear on the show floor.

Well this won't stop me from speculating about other things however. So here are my E3 predictions. (With a lot wishful thinking)

Later today the Smash Bros. Micro direct will tell us what we already know. Roy and Ryu are two new DLC-Characters for Smash Bros. There will also be a Street Fighter Stage and we probably get a look at the Miiverse Stage. Hopefully Sakurai will also announce some unknown news, like another new character, more stages or the first results of the fighter bailout. But for Smash Bros., that's pretty much it.

But now let's talk about the Digital Event on Thursday. We already know that it will focus on games that launch in 2015 and early 2016 and that it won't feature Zelda U. (Except Nintendo is lying to us, what I don't believe.)

Firstly I think they will tell us a little bit about their future plans with Amiibo and maybe teaser an Amiibo Game in the vein of Skylanders, Disney Infinity and the rest. If it's done well, I wouldn't mind.

DLC will probably also feature in the Digital Event. After the huge success of the Mario Kart DLC, they probably will announce another 2 packs. I personally hope for a Kong Pack with Diddy, Dixy and Cranky Kong as drivers and Tropical Freeze inspired courses. Also they will talk about their plans for Splatoon after the big updade in august and maybe give us a sneak peak into the future of the game. Also maybe Captain Toad DLC, but I think this is unlikely. But I wouldn't say no to a new Book with completely new levels.

Now for the games we already know about. Launch dates for Xenoblade Chronicles X and Fatal Frame 5 are a given. Also probably a launch date of Yoshis Wooly World for our american friends. And maybe we get lucky and get a launch window for Fire Emblem X Shin Megami Tensei.

Then they'll talk about Mario Maker. I also fully expect them to open with this game and the 30^th anniversary of Mario. They'll probably announce new enemies and playable characters. Let's hope they're not gated behind Amiibo use. Apart from that I would love them to announce the Yoshis Island graphics style, but I don't think so.

Star Fox most certainly will be shown. I'm hoping for a local- and online Co-op multiplayer, but it probably will only be local. Also 4 on 4 online battles would be cool, and here the chances for implementation are not unlikely. It would be easy to integrate. Simply put Team Wolf against Team Starfox. Gameplay wise I expect good old Star Fox, with fresh graphics. Map wise I would prefer a mix between on Rail segments and open worlds to freely roam and fight.

Now for the unknown games that are rumored.

Animal Crossing U:

 picture Source: Animal Crossing Plaza

I'm pretty certain that this game will be announced in this E3. There are a lot of hints that point towards it, and Nintendo would be stupid not to launch one of it's biggest franchises on the U. This game could boost Wii-U sales in Japan, seeing how absolutely crazy they are for New Leaf.

Paper Mario U:

picture source: Nintendo

Also a pretty safe guess. I would prefer a new Advance Wars from Intelligent Systems, but I won't complain if this gets announced. As long as it's a successor to the first two Paper Mario titles.

Metroid:

picture source: http://www.infendo.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/48749-metroid-u.jpg

Retro will be at E3 and if the don't announce a Metroid game, the people will probably riot. Together with the quote from last year that Nintendo is currently working on a 3DS and Wii-U Metroid, I'm pretty sure that we will get a first look at these two games this year. As for what I expect from Metroid: http://dilliansthoughthub.blogspot.co.at/2014/10/the-future-of-metroid.html

New Franchise:

With the resounding success of Splatoon, Nintendo maybe will start supporting more new franchises. I don't think it's very unlikely that we get to see something completely new. This or Metroid will probably be the end of the presentation. And seeing how much fun I already had with Splatoon I'm looking forward to any new franchise Nintend will show us.

So what are your expectations and wishes for E3? Are you looking forward to it?

And as always

thanks for reading

Nintendo Direct 01.04.2015

It was no Aprils fool prank. On the night from Wednesday to Thursday we got our second Nintendo Direct of 2015. And what a Direct it was. 3DS and Wii-U both got lots of love and if you didn't have unrealistic expectations (after all it's only 2 months till E3) it was quite satisfactory. If you didn't catch the whole thing, here is a link, so that you can watch it.

But now let's dive right into the announcements. First up we had some news regarding Super Smash Bros. And despite everything Sakurai said in the past, we'll get DLC beyond Mewtwo for this game. Not that it is surprising, after the gigantic success of the Mario Kart 8 DLC. I'm torn on this whole subject. On one side I don't mind DLC for this game. It has plenty of content already and the DLC won't feel like it has been cut out of the main game, just to be sold us for extra cash. I would have preferred for the characters to be cost 1 buck less, but I can live with the price of 5 bucks to get the character for both versions. What I don't like is the costume DLC. Now Super Smash Bros. already includes countless costumes for your MII-Fighters, even without DLC, but I absolutely despise such DLC. Costumes should be unlockables and not buyables. It's not as bad here as with other games, but Nintendo threads on a dangerous path. I hope they don't do this in future installments. As long as the basic version of the game doesn't feel butchered I don't have anything against DLC.

Now for the better announcements. So Lucas is back. Well I don't really care, but for his fans it's probably great news. What is even better is the possibility to vote for the next DLC character.

https://cp.nintendo.co.jp/us/

If you visit this page you can announce which character you would love to see joining the roster. This is truly a great idea, and I'm looking forward to whatever character may win.

So all in all I'm looking forward to more additions for the game and I hope that the DLC costumes only play a minor role in the future.

But this was only the beginning of the direct. Mario Maker looks better and better with each trailer and I can't wait to create my own levels, starting in September. We also got the confirmation that you'll even be able to create your own worlds and adventures. Maybe this really is the first step towards the job of level designer for a few lucky souls. We also got a release date for Yoshis Wooly World. On June 26^th we europeans can enjoy the cutest game since the invention of chocolate. We also get a special Amiibo made out of yarn. When I first saw this in the stream I couldn't believe my eyes, but they actually did it. When I first saw the Yarn Yoshis in the E3 2014 stream I said to my friend that they had to release those, but turning them into Amiibo is pure genius.

The Game will also offer two modes, which you can switch between at any given time. I prefer this method to the Super Guide often offered in previous platformers aimed at a more casual demographic. It doesn't feel forced upon you, but you can choose yourself if you need help to complete a level. And Choice is always preferable. I hope Nintendo also learns this for their online multiplayer.

For Splatoon we got another look at the Splat Zones mode, which really sounds exciting. But I don't understand why Nintendo won't support Voice chat for ranked battles. It would make the game much more tactical that way. At least allow it between friends.

We also got our first look at the local multiplayer, which sounds like a lot of fun. The 1vs1 aspect sounds cool and it can be used to get to know the different maps. I also hope they include bots for training matches. Splatoon seems like a game, where it's really important to know the maps, and such a mode is perfect for getting to know them.

We'll also get Splatoon Amiibos, which should surprise no one. But what this also means is that the Inklings now are a real possibility for Super Smash Bros. So everyone vote for them.

Next up is the long overdue virtual console announcement for N64 titles. And it starts with two bombs in form of Mario 64 and Donkey Kong 64. We also get Nintendo DS titles, which makes sense to me. The 3DS is already backwards compatible, so it doesn't need a virtual console for its predecessor. And the Wii-U can perfectly simulate the dual screen aspect with the Gamepad. So for me it's a good idea and I'm looking forward to getting Yoshis Island DS that way. However what's not so great is the price. 9.99 is pretty high for old games, but sadly it was expected, because Nintendo tends to demand a high price for their products. I would reduce the price of all virtual console games by 2 bucks, but that's just me.

After that we got a first glance at a game that many had already forgotten. But Fire Emblem x Shin Megami Tensei lives. Although it looks more like a Persona game (which itself is a spinoff series of Shin Megami Tensei) I'm really looking forward to this game. It looks like nothing we can experience on the Wii-U and even though on first glance it has nothing in common with a traditional Fire Emblem title, fans of those games can look forward to the new 3DS game.

Which we also got a good look at in this direct. Now the information sounds awesome. Being the main character for the first time and getting to decide which path to take sounds great, but with new information from Japan I'm not looking forward to this title anymore. Looking at the footage from the Direct one may think that you can choose your path within the game, but this is not the case. The game will actually launch in two different versions, each containing one storyline. So the way you choose your destiny is with your wallet. Owners of one game can then download the other storyline as extra DLC. However this only applies to Japan, while we only get the Hoshido game. If you're only interested in the Nohr story, you'll have to pay double. Now this is exactly the kind of DLC and anti-customer behavior that I despise. If you think this is okay, I won't tell you what to do and I'm happy that you'll get a new Fire Emblem game, but I won't support such business practice. I can't make a final verdict, because I don't know how extensive the storylines will be, but for now it leaves a really bad aftertaste in my mouth. I hope this model doesn't prove successful. We'll know the answer when the game launches in the west in 2016. Oh and the Japanese get the game in June already.

We also got a slew of other 3DS announcements. Puzzle and Dragons looks good, but the only game that really sparked my interest is Attack on Titan: Humanity in Chains. I didn't count on this game coming to the west, so this is a pleasant surprise and I will enjoy hunting Titans together with my friends.

Another big announcement, which I firmly believed would happen this year, was the localization of Project Zero 5 (Fatal Frame in the US). With a Hollywood film underway it would have been stupid to not release this game in the West. I'm counting on a October release for this game.

We also got our first look at the Amiibo cards. These cards will have the same functions as Amiibos, but won't cost as much. The first game using this cards will be Animal Crossing: Home Designer. As someone who never got into Animal Crossing this didn't impress me much, but I'll maybe get into it. It strips the Animal Crossing franchise down to the home design aspect. As someone who played Sims only as an architect this sounds interesting, but only time will tell.

The Amiibo cards however are a good idea. I already wrote that in earlier posts, but Amiibos are expensive, even if they only cost a fraction of real collectible statues. So if you want to own a wide array of Amiibos to use in your games it can cost quite a bit. With this cards I have the possibility to only buy Amiibos of characters I truly want and use the cards for the ingame uses. Amiibo Cards and the Amiibo reader for the regular 3DS will launch in autumn.

And now for the last part of information. After the shaky start with Smash DLC and the disappointing handling of the new Fire Emblem we got this:

Wow this is great. Not only will the second Mario Kart 8 DLC launch earlier than expected, but it will also be accompanied by a new high speed mode, which everyone gets for completely free. I said it once, and I'll say it again. Mario Kart 8 shows how DLC and support is done right. I can't express how stoked I am for the 23^rd of April.

And with that Nintendo ended a pretty great Direct. We didn't get any big announcements, but two months before E3 that expectation was unreasonable. What we got was a ton of information on titles we already knew. It was a informative Direct and I'm looking forward to E3. What was you takeaway from this Direct? Did it fulfill your expectations? Or were you disappointed?

And as always

thanks for reading

Source of all pictures: Nintendo

Smash Direct

Just some quick thoughts about the Super Smash Brothers Direct.

First of all. It was great! I'm seriously hyped for this game. For both versions. And that already brings me to the main point of this post. You can read the actual news and announcements for Characters, Stages, Items and so on on other sites, but I will talk about the separate release dates for both versions and why this is a good thing.

So the 3DS Version of Smash Bros will be released in Summer, while the Wii-U Version will launch in Winter. And of course the Internet is all over this, although the negativity is far less than I would have anticipated. Many say that Nintendo is cannibalizing the sales of the Wii-U Version with that move.

I say it's the opposite. Releasing the 3DS and the Wii-U Version at the same time would have been sales cannibalization. They would have to compete against each other, while the release we have now gives both versions enough room to breathe. I think many people will get the 3DS and the Wii-U Version and I see the 3DS game as kind of an appetizer (While still being a full fledged game of course). Also a winter release will surely give the Wii-U a good push during the holidays.

Now this assumption only works if the Wii-U Version has some extra content. Of course the core of the game will be the same, but like the 3DS Version, which gets the Smash run exclusive, the Wii-U Game needs some unique selling point.

Call me optimistic, but I think that's exactly what they're going to do in the time between 3DS and Wii-U release. They will work on some extra mode. Probably some single player. It only makes sense. They can't change the characters, trophys and items after the release of the 3DS Version and it would increase the appeal of the Wii-U game and encourage buying both versions.

So I expect Nintendo to release some infos on Wii-U specific modes and extras at E3.

Also yeah for Zero Suit Samus.

Ps.: Let's start a petition to rename the for Glory mode into ''Final Destination, No Items, Fox only''

...and yes I know that this joke has been told probably a million times in the last hours.