Nintendo VP Interview

[Spongedaddy]

http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/20/the-engadget-interview-reggie-fils-aime-executive-vice-preside/

He does comment on the 360:
"Have you played with the Xbox 360?

I have played with a 360.

What did you think about it?

Honestly, I was underwhelmed. And let me be clear: I played with pre-production units at last year’s E3 as well as at other industry events, I’ve played with production product, and while certainly some games look fantastic, I found the game play for many of the titles lacking. And so for me it was not something that held my interest for very long.

We certainly are looking at what they’re doing from an online perspective and I think to give Microsoft some credit, what they’ve done with Xbox Live has been very intriguing. But as a console, as a consumer, would I have shelled out what is close to $700 when you look at the premium unit, some software, some accessories? If I would’ve done that I’d be disappointed right now. "

It's funny because that is how I felt about the Gamecube. Nintendo has ridden their franchises for so long it's not even funny. One of the things I like about MS is that they have a lot of new franchises and games. I wonder how long Nintendo can really compete as a hardware manufacturer? They are losing ground to Sony in the handheld marketplace and cannot measure up financially to MS and Sony.

[rudyjuly2]

Re: Nintendo VP Interview

I actually agree with the fact they should be focusing on gaming rather than turning a console into a home entertainment system. It also helps keep the costs down.

I don't know how he can say his demographic isn't younger though. As sports gamers, we are typically older than Mario players and their EA support is pale in comparison. How could I ever buy a system where the football games aren't supported to the same level as MS or Sony? I won't really even consider the Revolution because of it.

[Misfit]

Re: Nintendo VP Interview

One could argue that the new franchises and games for for the Xbox are mostly carbon-copies of already existing ones. I don't think many developers are creating games that are wholey original, so no one really can brag there. From a hardware perspective, Nintendo is the only one trying something different, and I give them credit for having the guts to do so. If their experiment fails though, then that praise won't mean much. I'd disagree with the poster that said sports gamers are older than the average gamer, especially where EA properties are concerned. Children and adult gamers have Madden, as well as MVP. I know numerous parents that will only allow their children to purchase sports titles and E rated platformers and what-not. Adults are just more demanding of their sports titles and their voice is louder than that of a 10 year old.

As for his criticisms of the 360, they're justified, for now. When and if better software becomes available though then that argument starts to lose its power and if Nintendo still hasn't reached the market with their new console they'll be looking quite foolish.

[Spongedaddy]

Re: Nintendo VP Interview

I find that I have played more game swith this launch than any other launch I have participated in. COD, PD0, Kameo, Condemned, NBA2K6 and to a lesser extent Kong and NHL2K6 have been a lot of fun. Halo did take off with the Xbox launch but it wasn't as much fun as the 360. The only thing missing was a "killer" game.

[Flawless]

Re: Nintendo VP Interview

Good read, although it's getting tiring listening to Nintendo's idea that regular controllers are bland/not innovative.

[jmood88]

Re: Nintendo VP Interview

Good read, although it's getting tiring listening to Nintendo's idea that regular controllers are bland/not innovative.

I'm also tired of them trying to dictate what the consumers want. And if they would show something other than the same ol mario games then I will take them seriously when they complain about the gaming industry getting bland. I mean really, does anyone really need a 5th mario party or a super mario baseball game?