3DS second analog stick attachment unveiled

[heybtbm]

Derp.

I was on my phone so I didn't feel like taking 20 minutes to copy/paste links. Read away...

http://kotaku.com/5838643/metal-gears-studio-has-a-circle-pad-peripheral-now-too

http://nintendoeverything.com/interstitial.php?url=http://nintendoeverything.com/73341/

http://kotaku.com/5838197/nintendo-officially-confirms-comments-on-3ds-circle-pad-add+on

Google News has 100+ more stories. So yeah, Nintendo developed it and they're giving it to other studios.



Careful, I can recall multiple instances where you did the same thing even though you always marvel at how accurate your predictions are. ;)

Are you suggesting I'm the only one who marvels at my predictions?

((crickets chirping))

Besides, I know you'll keep me honest. Your memory is like an elephant's.

[NBaco]

I was on my phone so I didn't feel like taking 20 minutes to copy/paste links. Read away...

http://kotaku.com/5838643/metal-gears-studio-has-a-circle-pad-peripheral-now-too

http://nintendoeverything.com/interstitial.php?url=http://nintendoeverything.com/73341/

http://kotaku.com/5838197/nintendo-officially-confirms-comments-on-3ds-circle-pad-add+on

Google News has 100+ more stories. So yeah, Nintendo developed it and they're giving it to other studios.

I'll be damned...I guess they have more plans for this than just a single game. So yeah it looks like I was wrong about that. But seriously how can you blame me? Articles for the 3DS kept showing 3G and the developers from 3G. It sounded like a new Classic Controller Pro.

Sorry about that... But at least now I know. Guess I was full of it after all! :oops:

[goatdan]

That doesn't change the fact that it was designed to address a perceived problem and rather than forcing everyone to buy a re-designed handheld, they are actually giving existing owners a cheaper alternative. Microsoft didn't give people a lower cost upgrade option to replace the D-pad on the standard 360 controller for fighting games, opting instead to charge full price for a "redesigned" D-Pad controller. I didn't see people complaining about that business decision here. Similarly, I didn't see people bitching that if you want rumble on your PS3, and you were an early adopter, you had to buy a new controller to replace your Sixaxis.

You're missing a key point here -- with your examples, the only way to get a rumbling SixAxis or a new D-Pad 360 controller is NOT by buying an entirely new console. Can you imagine if Sony or Microsoft said, "Hey, we redesigned the controller to be even better, but you'll have to buy a whole new console to get one!" I imagine there would be a LOT of angry posts if they did that.

And, although I think this is way less relevant, neither of those controllers added some wholly new control scheme. It wasn't like the PS3 controller added the gyroscopic stuff. It added a completely non-essential gameplay mechanic. This looks to be adding what will be an essential gameplay mechanic...

That is less relevant though, as earlier system controllers (Genesis, Playstation, etc) created wholly new controllers that did become the adopted standard eventually. Regardless, you didn't have to purchase a brand new console to get them.

[Bojay1997]

You're missing a key point here -- with your examples, the only way to get a rumbling SixAxis or a new D-Pad 360 controller is NOT by buying an entirely new console. Can you imagine if Sony or Microsoft said, "Hey, we redesigned the controller to be even better, but you'll have to buy a whole new console to get one!" I imagine there would be a LOT of angry posts if they did that.

And, although I think this is way less relevant, neither of those controllers added some wholly new control scheme. It wasn't like the PS3 controller added the gyroscopic stuff. It added a completely non-essential gameplay mechanic. This looks to be adding what will be an essential gameplay mechanic...

That is less relevant though, as earlier system controllers (Genesis, Playstation, etc) created wholly new controllers that did become the adopted standard eventually. Regardless, you didn't have to purchase a brand new console to get them.

I'm sorry, but when did Nintendo say you couldn't just buy this add-on separately? How do you know that developers and Nintendo won't allow the option of using an alternate control scheme for people who choose not to buy the attachment? I guess I'm not following your comment at all as this add-on seems no different than any other controller that has ever been released after a console was released with something different.

[goatdan]

I'm sorry, but when did Nintendo say you couldn't just buy this add-on separately? How do you know that developers and Nintendo won't allow the option of using an alternate control scheme for people who choose not to buy the attachment? I guess I'm not following your comment at all as this add-on seems no different than any other controller that has ever been released after a console was released with something different.

You can't integrate this all into the same package by itself. If Nintendo bolts this onto a future revision of the DS, it will be functionally different, as having the second analog stick above the four buttons, or with those four buttons in a totally different place is a completely different revision.

Maybe this is a comment that boils it down to the follow-able parts -- Absolutely no successful or semi-successful _portable_ console has ever been released that requires a device that adds on some sort of other functionality. Every earlier Game Boy iteration, all of the DS iterations, the PSP, the Game Gear, the Lynx, heck, the Neo Geo Pocket Color, the freaking Game.Com... none of those have ever had a device that gets built into future revisions of the console. The DS had the rotary controller and the Guitar Hero thing and the rumble pack, none of which were control devices built into the console later. Beyond that one example, I can't even think of any bolt-on portable console control devices in any semi-successful console ever.

Comparing a portable to a home console is like comparing apples to oranges. People expect wildly different things out of their portable systems that they do not expect out of a console, and vice versa -- and they should. This is uncharted territory for a console if this is used for much beyond Monster Hunter.

[Gameguy]

Maybe this is a comment that boils it down to the follow-able parts -- Absolutely no successful or semi-successful _portable_ console has ever been released that requires a device that adds on some sort of other functionality. Every earlier Game Boy iteration, all of the DS iterations, the PSP, the Game Gear, the Lynx, heck, the Neo Geo Pocket Color, the freaking Game.Com... none of those have ever had a device that gets built into future revisions of the console.
Never?

http://img30.imageshack.us/img30/5817/dswebbrowser.jpg

[Leo_A]

I don't see why they couldn't add a second analog stick built into a revision. It's not rocket science to give developers the option of implimenting support for a right analog stick when their software detects it's running on a 3DSLite or whatever you'd want to call the inevitable system revision we have coming.

As long as support is mandated for the existing 3DS so current owners aren't left unable to play future software (Like many, if not all, Dual Shock games on the PSOne that still supported digital control were) so developers can't forsake the current version and existing owners, I don't see the problem.

And it's not like any publisher would want to drastically cut down the available size of their market anyways, so mandating that would just be a formality since they logically would still be supporting existing customers anyways.

If you're thinking it would anger the existing customers that don't have a right analog stick and that their system is now inferior to what is available and doesn't have all the functionality, I doubt Nintendo views that as much of a problem if their wide range of handheld improvements is any indication (The Game Boy Pocket, the Game Boy Light, the Game Boy Advance SP, the backlit Game Boy Advance SP, the DS Lite, the DSi, and the DSiXL).

I don't see why a right analog stick is much different from improvements we've gotten in the past like backlighting. The improved screens the Game Boy Advance eventually got had a far greater improvement for consumers than optional right analog support that they'd have to buy a system revision to get built in would.

[j_factor]

The DSi browser is downloaded from the DSi shop. It's not built into the system. Also I wouldn't call that a "device". ;)

[swlovinist]

I don't see why they couldn't add a second analog stick built into a revision. It's not rocket science to give developers the option of implimenting support for a right analog stick when their software detects it's running on a 3DSLite or whatever you'd want to call the inevitable system revision we have coming.

As long as support is mandated for the existing 3DS so current owners aren't left unable to play future software (Like many, if not all, Dual Shock games on the PSOne that still supported digital control were) so developers can't forsake the current version and existing owners, I don't see the problem.

And it's not like any publisher would want to drastically cut down the available size of their market anyways, so mandating that would just be a formality since they logically would still be supporting existing customers anyways.

If you're thinking it would anger the existing customers that don't have a right analog stick and that their system is now inferior to what is available and doesn't have all the functionality, I doubt Nintendo views that as much of a problem if their wide range of handheld improvements is any indication (The Game Boy Pocket, the Game Boy Light, the Game Boy Advance SP, the backlit Game Boy Advance SP, the DS Lite, the DSi, and the DSiXL).

I don't see why a right analog stick is much different from improvements we've gotten in the past like backlighting. The improved screens the Game Boy Advance eventually got had a far greater improvement for consumers than optional right analog support that they'd have to buy a system revision to get built in would.

Agree with this. I think that the Big N will offer an accessory for the Gen 1 3DS folks that want the second analog, and I dont expect it to cost a ton.

[skaar]

This won't help their developer buy-in much at all. DS is still cheaper to develop for, has a bigger install base and is still selling very well.

There's next to no incentive to move to 3DS as a developer.

Nintendo's throwing dev kits and cash at the big houses to get titles out. Good thing they printed all that money.

[kupomogli]

Nintendo's throwing dev kits and cash at the big houses to get titles out. Good thing they printed all that money.

The video game economic stimulus act of 2011.

[PapaStu]

Maybe this is a comment that boils it down to the follow-able parts -- Absolutely no successful or semi-successful _portable_ console has ever been released that requires a device that adds on some sort of other functionality. Every earlier Game Boy iteration, all of the DS iterations, the PSP, the Game Gear, the Lynx, heck, the Neo Geo Pocket Color, the freaking Game.Com... none of those have ever had a device that gets built into future revisions of the console. The DS had the rotary controller and the Guitar Hero thing and the rumble pack, none of which were control devices built into the console later. Beyond that one example, I can't even think of any bolt-on portable console control devices in any semi-successful console ever.


Because those controllers & extensions were designed for SPECIFIC games, and right now, we have NO clue that Nintendo is doing a full re-release w/ the second stick. So the stick is out there, like Motion Plus, which ALLOWS for SOME games to do a dual control option, or is sold w/ it (ala the Poke-Pedometer).


Never?

http://img30.imageshack.us/img30/5817/dswebbrowser.jpg

That hasn't been built into any DS afterwords. There is no official web capabilities for the DSi, DSi XL or 3DS that allows for general web browsing. Same w/ the Wireless Mic that was released for online play. Never built into anything else.

[Gameguy]

That hasn't been built into any DS afterwords. There is no official web capabilities for the DSi, DSi XL or 3DS that allows for general web browsing. Same w/ the Wireless Mic that was released for online play. Never built into anything else.
But I thought the DSi browser is now available for free download from the DSi Shop, and you don't need any RAM expansion to use it like you did with the DS or DS Lite because that extra RAM in now built into the system. Now there's no need to buy a $30 add on to surf the web.

I never bothered to use my DSi for web browsing so I don't have first hand experience with this, but that's my understanding from what I can find online. I don't even know if you can get viruses using it.

Maybe it doesn't really count though as it's not game related, but I thought it kind of did as it was sold separately as an add on(the RAM part) and now is basically available free. The only other things I could think of are those rechargeable battery packs or screen lights for the Gameboy Advance which were later built into the SPs later on. I guess they don't really count either.

[Oobgarm]

But I thought the DSi browser is now available for free download from the DSi Shop, and you don't need any RAM expansion to use it like you did with the DS or DS Lite because that extra RAM in now built into the system. Now there's no need to buy a $30 add on to surf the web.

I never bothered to use my DSi for web browsing so I don't have first hand experience with this, but that's my understanding from what I can find online. I don't even know if you can get viruses using it.

Maybe it doesn't really count though as it's not game related, but I thought it kind of did as it was sold separately as an add on(the RAM part) and now is basically available free. The only other things I could think of are those rechargeable battery packs or screen lights for the Gameboy Advance which were later built into the SPs later on. I guess they don't really count either.

But you have to consider that the browser is not and has never been an item that is required for gameplay of a specific or multiple titles like those other add-ons that were mentioned.

The browser's and the rechargable batteries' later inclusion could also fall under a natural progression of the electronic world, not the company trying to shoehorn something to correct an oversight on their part.

[Gameguy]

But you have to consider that the browser is not and has never been an item that is required for gameplay of a specific or multiple titles like those other add-ons that were mentioned.

The browser's and the rechargable batteries' later inclusion could also fall under a natural progression of the electronic world, not the company trying to shoehorn something to correct an oversight on their part.
I was mostly replying to goatdan's statement that no successful portable system ever had an add on device(that adds on some sort of other functionality) that later gets built into future revisions of the console. It's not related to gameplay but it does add some other functionality, he didn't mention gameplay specifically.

I do think that they added a built in light to the SP because people were complaining about the poor screen of the GBA, I remember some games included options to control brightness levels because of how dark the screen looked. By that time I think people were expecting the system to be backlit, even Nintendo made a backlit Gameboy Pocket type system for Japan years earlier so it wasn't entirely new for them. I really remember people complaining about the dark screen before the SPs came out so that was shoehorned in. You could be right about the batteries though, I don't really remember if people were complaining much about the batteries back then.

[Oobgarm]

I'll give you the backlight on the SP to a certain degree. The Game Boy Pocket Light was a limited run system, and those who bought it paid extra to have that backlight.

It wasn't totally cost effective for them to include it with the original GBA or they would have. Even buying the Afterburner kit to install it on them was expensive.

I'd say that's a split between fixing something that was an issue and electronic progression.

[kupomogli]

I was mostly replying to goatdan's statement that no successful portable system ever had an add on device(that adds on some sort of other functionality)


The DS had the rotary controller and the Guitar Hero thing and the rumble pack, none of which were control devices built into the console later. Beyond that one example, I can't even think of any bolt-on portable console "control devices" in any semi-successful console ever.

He meant something that adds additional features control wise. The Guitar Hero thing is obviously only going to be for Guitar Hero, but a second analog stick and R2 button is being developed by Nintendo and is clearly going to be used for games other than Monster Hunter.

[DeputyMoniker]

Damn that's ugly. Couldn't they have made it more square to match the look of the system? I hope they revise that.

What the fuck...that shit looks amateur.

[goatdan]

He meant something that adds additional features control wise. The Guitar Hero thing is obviously only going to be for Guitar Hero, but a second analog stick and R2 button is being developed by Nintendo and is clearly going to be used for games other than Monster Hunter.

Yup, that's my exact point.

The Guitar Hero thing, or the rotary thing were not built into future revisions of the DS.

I've actually thought about this a bit, and there was one or two games that were / are "DSi exclusive" that use the built in DSi camera in them. That camera was NOT in the original version of the DS, so it was added on, but it was also not nearly as large of a feature as any of those things.

Backlighting, extended batteries, etc don't count because they don't impact gameplay. Neither does the PSPGo (not like it was a success anyway) because you can play everything the exact same, you just don't have the media.

I guess there is no real way to judge exactly how this will play out, as since no one has ever done it, history doesn't tell us if it works or not. But, unlike controller revisions that don't really bother me, this immediately leaves a bad taste in my mouth.

[Malon_Forever]

Why do people care what it looks like?

[DeputyMoniker]

Why do people care what it looks like?

Seriously? Do you really think you don't care what things look like?
I look at it and think, "What the fuck...did you even try? This is the best you can do??"

[Malon_Forever]

Seriously? Do you really think you don't care what things look like?
I look at it and think, "What the fuck...did you even try? This is the best you can do??"

It's not like you're wearing it. It's a videogame accessory. The NES is a strange looking machine. I just don't see why this is doom for the 3DS because it looks bulky.

[Graham Mitchell]

What the fuck...that shit looks amateur.

I know, right? The 3ds actually has a rather, sleek, compact design. (and with the nyko extended battery, it's got a nice weight to it as well.)

That thing makes the 3ds look like a fucking Leapster. It cheapens the design.

[BetaWolf47]

Seriously? Do you really think you don't care what things look like?
I look at it and think, "What the fuck...did you even try? This is the best you can do??"
There's not much you CAN do to make an attachment like this look elegant on a handheld. There's really no way to add a second analog stick without making a huge, hunking plastic piece on the side. Remember how ugly the Guitar Hero attachment for DS was? I'm slightly concerned about the upper left corner of it. Looks like they cut out a piece of plastic there to save money.

By the way, isn't anyone else wondering why a game like Monster Hunter REQUIRES an attachment like this?

[Bojay1997]

There's not much you CAN do to make an attachment like this look elegant on a handheld. There's really no way to add a second analog stick without making a huge, hunking plastic piece on the side. Remember how ugly the Guitar Hero attachment for DS was? I'm slightly concerned about the upper left corner of it. Looks like they cut out a piece of plastic there to save money.

By the way, isn't anyone else wondering why a game like Monster Hunter REQUIRES an attachment like this?

Or more importantly, why the attachment wasn't mentioned even once in tonight's Nintendo pre-TGS briefing even during the two Monster Hunter segments? Looks like all the hype and panic about a revamp of the 3DS design was premature.

[Bojay1997]

So it looks like they announced a roughly $20 price tag, an early December release date for Japan and a handful of games that support it but don't require it. So much for the massive overhaul and earth shattering split between those who have it and those who won't.

[heybtbm]

Or more importantly, why the attachment wasn't mentioned even once in tonight's Nintendo pre-TGS briefing even during the two Monster Hunter segments?

What press conference were you watching?

http://m.kotaku.com/5839675/3ds-slidepad-pricing-zelda-news-a-3ds-monster-hunter-heres-what-you-missed-last-night

http://m.kotaku.com/5839599/nintendos-ugly-3ds-circle-pad-add+on-priced-and-dated

[Malon_Forever]

What press conference were you watching?

http://m.kotaku.com/5839675/3ds-slidepad-pricing-zelda-news-a-3ds-monster-hunter-heres-what-you-missed-last-night

http://m.kotaku.com/5839599/nintendos-ugly-3ds-circle-pad-add+on-priced-and-dated

The Four Swords for free is sweet. Can't wait for Paper Mario and Animal Crossing too!

[Bojay1997]

What press conference were you watching?

http://m.kotaku.com/5839675/3ds-slidepad-pricing-zelda-news-a-3ds-monster-hunter-heres-what-you-missed-last-night

http://m.kotaku.com/5839599/nintendos-ugly-3ds-circle-pad-add+on-priced-and-dated

I watched the whole thing last night and didn't see a single reference to it. I'm assuming they had literature or reps at the show who provided this additional info after the fact as most of the news sites didn't add the info until after the conference was over. They certainly didn't mention or show it at all during the Monster Hunter portion of the presentation which is significant IMHO and the fact that it's not a part of the game bundle (unless you buy one of the premium bundles on the Capcom Japanese store) indicates it's not required to play the game.

[kupomogli]

So it looks like they announced a roughly $20 price tag, an early December release date for Japan and a handful of games that support it but don't require it. So much for the massive overhaul and earth shattering split between those who have it and those who won't.

They're not going to immediately split the fanbase. But if a new revision does come out, it will more than likely happen eventually. Say there are five million 3DS' sold by the time the revision is released and then by that time there are no more 3DS' being developed. But let's say altogether there are 20 million 3DS' sold including the revision.

Now this is only "if" there is a revision, but I'm also sure that Nintendo will be tracking sales of the add on as well. When the majority of the userbase has either the add on or the new revision, I doubt Nintendo will think twice about splitting the fanbase. If one of you couple million want to play "insert random game here" then you'll have to buy the add on or the new revision.

If it does happen, that's when it's going to be. They're not going to be splitting the fanbase anytime soon, especially when as of this time absolutely no one owns the add on, the revision isn't out, and the games that include support have already been developed with the regular configuration in mind.

[Bojay1997]

They're not going to immediately split the fanbase. But if a new revision does come out, it will more than likely happen eventually. Say there are five million 3DS' sold by the time the revision is released and then by that time there are no more 3DS' being developed. But let's say altogether there are 20 million 3DS' sold including the revision.

Now this is only "if" there is a revision, but I'm also sure that Nintendo will be tracking sales of the add on as well. When the majority of the userbase has either the add on or the new revision, I doubt Nintendo will think twice about splitting the fanbase. If one of you couple million want to play "insert random game here" then you'll have to buy the add on or the new revision.

If it does happen, that's when it's going to be. They're not going to be splitting the fanbase anytime soon, especially when as of this time absolutely no one owns the add on, the revision isn't out, and the games that include support have already been developed with the regular configuration in mind.

That's exactly my point. People are acting as though Nintendo is going to stop selling the 3DS tomorrow and replace it with a 3DS dual analog version. The attachment hasn't even been announced for the US yet, there is no evidence that you will be required to use the attachment to play any 3DS game and frankly, there is no evidence Nintedo will ever release a system revision with this pad imbedded. I'm just not seeing what the concern is about as this just looks like one more option gamers and developers can choose to adopt or not at a very low cost.

[Leo_A]

While I believe Nintendo will release this accessory stateside, that developers will support it, and that a system revision will eventually incorporate it, I just don't understand the problem with that.

People seem to be under some strange assumption that a game, if it will utilize this second stick, will make it also not work with a regular 3DS. I've seen no evidence of that and don't see any reason to be concerned about that.

A game supporting a second analog stick doesn't mean it also won't play on a regular 3DS with a single analog stick. The two don't seem as if they're mutually exclusive and I'm sure 3DS software will get by just fine supporting both options.

A game if it detects it's running on 3DS without this accessory will default to single analog control, and if it detects it's running on a 3DS with this accessory or a 3DSLite, it will offer a dual analog mode when appropriate. I see no reason to even think that we're going to eventually see a split in the fanbase where developers choose to just support a revision. It's just control mapping and they're surely always going to support the launch model 3DS out of the box. There's no reason not to, both from a practical point of view and a business one.

There's nothing to be concerned about unless you have to just have the latest and greatest handheld revision. And if you're that type of person, you need to be ignoring this platform completely for about 5 years since we're going to no doubt get a revision or two that improves upon this current one in various ways before all is said and done.

Someone buying this now, and getting upset that an improved system revision is eventually released, doesn't deserve any sympathy. Nintendo's handheld routine should be common knowledge at this point and if you dislike it, you have to ignore it until the dying days of the platform or risk something better coming out.

But it won't be splitting the install base.

[Robocop2]

Cause hating on the 3DS is popular? I'm not disappointed with my purchase of the system at all and honestly I kind of like the add on. Makes me think of a Game Gear or Lynx so kind of has a nostalgia factor to an extent. If the games coming that support it are interesting and the extra pad makes some aspect more appealing I'd pick one up. Monster Hunter 3 isn't that game and the only other game I've heard rumor of it being supported is a Metal Gear game; another series I care little to nothing about. So really at this point I don't care about the add on.

I dislike that the form factor increases and it won't fit in my case that I have now but more cases will come that it fits likely. So again no really big deal.
I would still like to see that thing released with some type of extended battery though. It's interesting that it requires a AA battery to function supposedly.

Of course all of this is only a concern if the idea of the extra stick takes off and more support comes for it. If it does I'm sure they'll include it on a revision down the road or at the least offer a redesigned version of it for the next iteration of the 3DS. Its existance does not make the 3DS a failure any more than Kinect existing means the end of the 360 as a platform. Another add on I have not seen anything remotely interesting enough to make me want it.

And no it should not be "free" to everyone who got butt hurt about shelling out the 250 for the system at launch. that's just silly. I didn't realize Monster Hunter was so popular.

[c0ldb33r]

I dislike that the form factor increases...
I like that it's so big. That works with my big hands.

[kupomogli]

Monster Hunter is extremely popular in Japan only. It's kind of like Dragon Quest where the following outside of Japan isn't nearly as large.

The Monster Hunter games are pretty good, though. They're somewhat of a mix between MMO and Phantasy Star. Instead of finding weapons or leveling up, you purchase and/or upgrade your pre existing weapons and armor by combining stuff you find out in your hunts/quests. The only thing I dislike about the Monster Hunter games are how there are too few areas you go to unless you buy another version. They use Capcom's tried and true tweak system where you're getting the same game over again with minor adjustments and maybe one or two extra areas.

[Robocop2]

I like that it's so big. That works with my big hands.

I like that as well personally. I meant that my problem is that it would no longer fit in the case that I have currently.

[SuperOstrich]

The circle pad is up on Nintendo's Japanese website, list price is 1500¥

http://www.nintendo.co.jp/3ds/hardware/accessories/index.html

I'm adopting a wait-and-see approach with the 3DS. At the moment there isn't a single game I want to play on the system; once Mario Kart 7, Mario Land 3D, Ace Combat, and Bravely Default are released, my tune will likely change.

[heybtbm]

The urge to get a 3DS is growing, but you just KNOW there's going to be a hardware revision sometime next year. The question is: Does anyone have the right to get pissed when the new 3DS comes out? I think the honest answer is "No". A 2-thumbstick 3DS is such an inevitability, that anyone buying the current model from this point on fully knows what they're getting themselves into.

Also, strong words from Kotaku today...

Congratulations, 3DS Owners. You Just Helped Nintendo Beta Test a Product. (http://kotaku.com/5839649/do-you-own-a-3ds-nintendo-is-screwing-you-over)

[joshnickerson]

By the way, isn't anyone else wondering why a game like Monster Hunter REQUIRES an attachment like this?

*IS* it required? From all that I gathered, it seems like a completely optional accessory (most likely used for the camera control that would otherwise be used by the touchscreen)

[DeputyMoniker]

It's not like you're wearing it. It's a videogame accessory. The NES is a strange looking machine. I just don't see why this is doom for the 3DS because it looks bulky.

Actually, when the NES came out it looked cool as hell. Still does, IMO. Doom? Nah...I'm not saying that. It looks stupid, cheap, and lazy. Just awful, I say. Jesus, guys, what the fuck. It looks like a working concept.



I know, right? The 3ds actually has a rather, sleek, compact design. (and with the nyko extended battery, it's got a nice weight to it as well.)

That thing makes the 3ds look like a fucking Leapster. It cheapens the design.

Yeah, it does make it look like a Leapster. Lol. You know, as long as we're on the subject of cheapening the design...I'm sure this is something people say a lot but they really shouldn't have made the 3DS so aesthetically similar to the DSi. Sure, they both may look great but they look so similar that I've never thought I've seen one in the wild. I just assume dude is playing a DSi.


There's not much you CAN do to make an attachment like this look elegant on a handheld. There's really no way to add a second analog stick without making a huge, hunking plastic piece on the side. Remember how ugly the Guitar Hero attachment for DS was? I'm slightly concerned about the upper left corner of it. Looks like they cut out a piece of plastic there to save money.

By the way, isn't anyone else wondering why a game like Monster Hunter REQUIRES an attachment like this?

I disagree. There is plenty they could have done. First of all, mold it out of polyurethane. Dirt cheap and hard enough to be used as a removable peripheral. I'm sure that the reason they shot it off to the right of the unit is so you can leave it attached & still close the lid. If that's the case then they should have placed it south of the button pad and just made it easier to remove. Something. Anything. SOMETHING. I swear they designed this with not giving a shit in mind. Obviously, something more important is on their radar.


The question is: Does anyone have the right to get pissed when the new 3DS comes out?

Yeah. They do. I respect Nintendo and I do care that mother nature tripped them up...but it is their responsibility to properly market, develop for, provide longevity, and basically nurture my investment. No matter the degree of self-entitlement my previous statement may imply, we do share those basic principles. If Nintendo fails to provide that experience, then I/we get to be mad. I'm not mad...I didn't buy a 3DS, which brings me to the other thing I get to do. Not buy their next console. They didn't provide me a desirable experience with the DS, so I haven't invested in another handheld from them.

[moggles]

Monster Hunter is extremely popular in Japan only. It's kind of like Dragon Quest where the following outside of Japan isn't nearly as large.

The Monster Hunter games are pretty good, though. They're somewhat of a mix between MMO and Phantasy Star. Instead of finding weapons or leveling up, you purchase and/or upgrade your pre existing weapons and armor by combining stuff you find out in your hunts/quests. The only thing I dislike about the Monster Hunter games are how there are too few areas you go to unless you buy another version. They use Capcom's tried and true tweak system where you're getting the same game over again with minor adjustments and maybe one or two extra areas.

Which version of Monster Hunter do you own and how did you go about understanding the story, menus, and battle configurations?

[Leo_A]

The urge to get a 3DS is growing, but you just KNOW there's going to be a hardware revision sometime next year.

I think the timetable to the first revision is going to be longer than that. Nintendo is taking pains to specifically reassure people that this isn't going to be another DS Lite situation where a significantly improved revision quickly gets released 18 months or so after the initial launch.

I think we'll get a couple of revisions before all is said and done, but I don't believe we'll get the first one in 2012.


Which version of Monster Hunter do you own and how did you go about understanding the story, menus, and battle configurations?

We've recieved a good number of localized versions of these games over the years. The first Monster Hunter for the PS2, Monster Hunter Freedom for the PSP, Monster Hunter Freedom 2 for the PSP, Monster Hunter Freedom Unite for the PSP, Monster Hunter Tri for the Wii, and the spin-off Monster Hunter Dynamic Hunting for the iOS.

We've recieved nearly 50% of the main entries in the series and 1/4 of the spin-offs

[Leo_A]

Sorry for the double post.

[kupomogli]

Which version of Monster Hunter do you own and how did you go about understanding the story, menus, and battle configurations?

There's a storyline in the Monster Hunter games, but it's like Demon's Souls. The storyline is practically non existent after the very beginning so it doesn't matter.

I own Monster Hunter Freedom Unite for the PSP, but I've played the original for PS2. I'd say wait on the PS3 Portable 3rd or purchase the digital version of Freedom Unite for the Vita so you can use dual analog. If you play the game using the PSP you'll have to use the uncomfortable "claw" technique to change the camera. Haven't played the Wii version, but I can only assume it will be a little akward playing on the 3DS with the analog on top and digital on bottom.

The game has a very in depth tutorial on each weapon to show what kind of attacks and what each attack does, etc. Each tutorial plays out like a mission. All weapons allow for a very different play style so I'd be sure to practice them all and see what you like.

[Jive3D]

12345

[Leo_A]

The 3DS is a new product, it shouldn't all of a sudden be old and out of date due to this seemingly "optional" add-on (We all know that for the games that support this, and there will be MANY, that the best experience will be with the add-on). So it's true: my new toy is no longer capable of all things new. The new gaming experiences that I specifically bought this toy for can not be had to their full potential unless I spend more money on something that is extremely ugly and goes against the portable nature of the product (I'm a commuting-gamer).

Would you be happier if developers like Capcom just stayed within the limitations of the system and made something like Monster Hunter not meet it's full potential for everyone by not supporting this accessory?

I don't see how this accessory is harming your experience because some gamers that are pleased this exist can get a second analog stick and additional shoulder buttons to improve their experience if they desire.

How is that harming your ability to enjoy the 3DS? Your experience is the same whether this accessory gets released and you ignore it for the reasons you've stated, or if it just didn't exist at all.

[Jive3D]

12345

[sfchakan]

http://kotaku.com/5839649/do-you-own-a-3ds-nintendo-is-screwing-you-over

Amusing to see all of the people bitching about Kotaku's negative tone when writing about the 3DS. I almost bought a 3DS, having enjoyed the DS a lot (and the GBA SP, GB, etc.). The initial launch lineup didn't really have a must-have game for me, though, so I passed on it, figuring I'd wait for that game. It still hasn't come.

If I had invested $400+ in a 3DS and a bunch of games at launch, I would have been pissed by this add-on crap. Sure, when you buy in early to something, you're paying to have it early. It's a privilege to get to enjoy something new and exciting before other people. It still doesn't excuse the fact that half a year into the system being out, Nintendo is already making it obsolete. Yes, this add-on clearly signifies an upcoming revision, one that is not only more streamlined, which is to be expected, but one that features additional features that will prevent you from enjoying games being played the way they were intended to be without the add-on and/or the next hardware revision.

People will defend anything. I think too many people get their jollies just by arguing any point. Hell, today I attempted to watch another filmmaker trying to tear apart a scene of the Dark Knight (http://vimeo.com/28792404), bitching about how it's shot. These silly people like attention too much.

Jive, you're entirely entitled to feel the way you do.

[Jive3D]

12345

[c0ldb33r]

If I had invested $400+ in a 3DS and a bunch of games at launch, I would have been pissed by this add-on crap.
I bought it at launch, and I'm not pissed off.

However, I don't think I'll be an early adopter of Nintendo stuff again for awhile.

[Bojay1997]

http://kotaku.com/5839649/do-you-own-a-3ds-nintendo-is-screwing-you-over

Amusing to see all of the people bitching about Kotaku's negative tone when writing about the 3DS. I almost bought a 3DS, having enjoyed the DS a lot (and the GBA SP, GB, etc.). The initial launch lineup didn't really have a must-have game for me, though, so I passed on it, figuring I'd wait for that game. It still hasn't come.

If I had invested $400+ in a 3DS and a bunch of games at launch, I would have been pissed by this add-on crap. Sure, when you buy in early to something, you're paying to have it early. It's a privilege to get to enjoy something new and exciting before other people. It still doesn't excuse the fact that half a year into the system being out, Nintendo is already making it obsolete. Yes, this add-on clearly signifies an upcoming revision, one that is not only more streamlined, which is to be expected, but one that features additional features that will prevent you from enjoying games being played the way they were intended to be without the add-on and/or the next hardware revision.

People will defend anything. I think too many people get their jollies just by arguing any point. Hell, today I attempted to watch another filmmaker trying to tear apart a scene of the Dark Knight (http://vimeo.com/28792404), bitching about how it's shot. These silly people like attention too much.

Jive, you're entirely entitled to feel the way you do.

Again, how is this add-on in any way making your 3DS obsolete? At this point, the only way you can even use the add-on is if you own a regular old 3DS, the same one they have been selling since launch. There is no dual pad model nor has Nintendo announced one. Nothing has been made obsolete and there is no indication it will be made obsolete at any point in the future. Please explain how this "clearly" signals an upcoming revision when Nintendo has a long history of releasing add-ons that aren't required to play its games (rumble packs, Motion Plus, etc....). With specific reference to Wii Motion Plus, some two years after release there are only four released games and one upcoming game that require it. Several of these games were only sold with a Wii Motion Plus controller or add-on pack as a bundle. Why aren't people complaining that Nintendo made the regular Wii remote obsolete? I think it's because most people aren't reactionary whiners who fear progress and greater choice and the fact that most of us appreciate a company working to improve a product we have spent our hard earned money to buy.

You don't even own a 3DS like many of us, you didn't pay anywhere near $400 since you have spent a total of $0 on the 3DS and its games, so IMHO, you are just another one of the cattle-like masses bitching about something for which you have no personal stake whatsoever. Nintendo could have just said "hey, developers want a second analog stick, we're going to release a new piece of hardware and if you don't buy it, you can't play the new games". Instead, they offered an inexpensive add-on that isn't even required to play any game at this point. I think they should be commended rather than criticized and frankly, the only people who are trying to get their jollies and defend anything are people like you who have zero credibility because you have no stake in the outcome of the situation either way. Tell you what, why don't you come back when Nintendo actually announces a new handheld with this second analog stick, ok?

[sfchakan]

Tell you what, why don't you come back when Nintendo actually announces a new handheld with this second analog stick, ok?

See you within the next year.

[Leo_A]

I certainly understand how you feel, Jive (I bought my DS just a few days before the DS Lite was announced, for instance). But you had to have known when you bought this so early on that there was an excellent risk that something like this will happen.

The Game Boy saw two significant revisions (One of which was a Japanese exclusive), the Game Boy Advance saw three revisions (Which brought sidelighting to the GBA and later on, backlighting to the platform), and the DS saw three revisions that significantly enhanced the system over time.

Buying this handheld so early on all but guarantees that you're not going to have the best version of the system by the time everything is said and done. Who knows just what improvements we'll get when, but I think Nintendo's past practices all but guarantees a revision or two.

You're an early adapter. Stuff like that happens and if you buy it early, it's because you want to enjoy it now. I wouldn't let the threat of a revision drag your enjoyment of this platform down just because it might not stay as the latest and greatest version of the system for the next 5 years.

[kupomogli]

I certainly understand how you feel, Jive (I bought my DS just a few days before the DS Lite was announced, for instance). But you had to have known when you bought this so early on that there was an excellent risk that something like this will happen.

I also bought a DS right before the Lite was announced. I honestly didn't think Nintendo was going to release another revision, and if they didn't I didn't think it was going to be anywhere near that soon. Thankfully I never bought a Lite though, as when I finally played one about three years ago, while the screen was better and it was lighter, the buttons were just much worse in comparison.

The reason I didn't think another revision was coming is because it was already backlit, andit's like, what could Nintendo really change.

The multiple revisions the DS came out with really makes me not want to purchase a 3DS until the end of its life cycle, and it really sucks because I want to play some of the games that have been announced on it, but I also don't want to have an inferior handheld in comparison to the one I could end up owning. With the DSi and then the XL, it has become apparent that the newer 3DS could be as different from the original as the XL is from the original DS.

I was also extremely close to trading in my original DS and purchasing a 3DS when the price dropped early. I'd be lying if I didn't say I was glad I didn't.

[moggles]

People complain far less when Apple make repeated revisions of their products.

[Nature Boy]

The multiple revisions the DS came out with really makes me not want to purchase a 3DS until the end of its life cycle

Nintendo did the same thing with the GBA too, releasing the SP and then a second SP with a much better screen.

The second analog thing hasn't changed my timeline for buying a 3DS, as I wasn't rushing out to get one. And if I had one, it wouldn't bother me much either - after all, I've been through this with the GBA and NDS, so I'm practically expecting it at this point.

[kupomogli]

With the GBA it was going from the GBA to GBA SP with backlight. I'm aware there's the SP2 which wasn't much of a revision from SP and then the Micro, so it's not like those matter.

However, the DS has some really major revisions after the DS Lite. DSi with the cameras and the memory slot, plus exclusive games, then the XL with the much larger screen. There's no past Gameboy that has ever had major revisions like the DS has. Same thing with the PSP. TV out on the PSP2000 and future revisions, and really, that's it(there's the mic on 3000 and then the Go which was a flop.) I'll be picking the Vita up day one, as I can't very well foresee any future revisions to be much different from the one I'll end up purchasing.

[Nature Boy]

However, the DS has some really major revisions after the DS Lite. DSi with the cameras and the memory slot, plus exclusive games, then the XL with the much larger screen. There's no past Gameboy that has ever had major revisions like the DS has.

Regardless as to whether it's a 'major revision' or not (which is an arbitrary designation on your part IMO), your point is moot: the consumer in question is saying I'm not buying your hardware yet because I know changes are coming, even if they don't know what those changes are. They value waiting for the revision more than they value getting their hands on it now.

Which is really what you were saying in the first place, so I don't know why you took issue with the GBA comment (other than I guess you felt the need to say those differences didn't matter to you personally?)

[kupomogli]

Which is really what you were saying in the first place, so I don't know why you took issue with the GBA comment (other than I guess you felt the need to say those differences didn't matter to you personally?)

Yeah, this right here.

[PapaStu]

http://kotaku.com/5839649/do-you-own-a-3ds-nintendo-is-screwing-you-over

Amusing to see all of the people bitching about Kotaku's negative tone when writing about the 3DS. I almost bought a 3DS, having enjoyed the DS a lot (and the GBA SP, GB, etc.). The initial launch lineup didn't really have a must-have game for me, though, so I passed on it, figuring I'd wait for that game. It still hasn't come.

If I had invested $400+ in a 3DS and a bunch of games at launch, I would have been pissed by this add-on crap. Sure, when you buy in early to something, you're paying to have it early. It's a privilege to get to enjoy something new and exciting before other people. It still doesn't excuse the fact that half a year into the system being out, Nintendo is already making it obsolete. Yes, this add-on clearly signifies an upcoming revision, one that is not only more streamlined, which is to be expected, but one that features additional features that will prevent you from enjoying games being played the way they were intended to be without the add-on and/or the next hardware revision.

People will defend anything. I think too many people get their jollies just by arguing any point. Hell, today I attempted to watch another filmmaker trying to tear apart a scene of the Dark Knight (http://vimeo.com/28792404), bitching about how it's shot. These silly people like attention too much.

Jive, you're entirely entitled to feel the way you do.

I was one of those launch day people who spent WELL more than 400 at launch. Hell I think my launch count of games was 9 in addition to the system. Not mad about this, and frankly don't give a shit that this preferial is coming out, or that it could be part and parcel of the eventual revamped system. I didn't care when the DSLite hit and I continued to use my Phat for another 2 years before I upgraded to a Lite. I skipped the DSi because I didn't need one with the only added option of DSiWare games. About the time I wanted one (for the DSi store access, over the better screen of the DSi), the XL hit, got one for katchoo and decided to wait for the 3DS that'd do all the DSi did + well.... 3D.

I've only got 2 beefs with the system. Battery life and the split between DSi & 3DS-ware DL games. 3DS games can be stored on memory cards and accessed via that, the DSi games are stored in onboard memory. I'm more worried about the much larger selection of DSi games and a lack of onboard memory for them. Does this shortened battery life kill my ability to play the system? No... but at times I've got to worry about charging more than i'd want to, but I've yet to run out of the ability to play this on the go.

I'm not grumpy by 'additional' features for the 3DS any more than I am about Kinect or Move and those have games that REQUIRE those controllers to be able to play. Those are just as much of a system add on as this second stick. I've yet to adopt either of those systems and have no huge rush to do so. I'll get em eventually (the Move has some stuff i'd want to play, vs the 2 games i'd want to play for Kinect). At least with the currently slated Japanese games that'd be getting this second stick compatability they can all be played w/o the stick. If it becomes standard, so what, by then I may be willing to jump to a new system, but will likely already have that second stick adaptor and unless battery life has gotten THAT much better i'll continue to use the 3DS that will still be perfectly fine.

[Leo_A]

With the GBA it was going from the GBA to GBA SP with backlight. I'm aware there's the SP2 which wasn't much of a revision from SP and then the Micro, so it's not like those matter.

The SP was sidelit and had a worse screen than the original DS.

The backlit SP2's screen was a huge improvement and used the same screen technology as the DS Lite (And the GBA Micro).

[BetaWolf47]

People complain far less when Apple make repeated revisions of their products.
No offense, but out of curiosity, do Mapquest directions to your house involve crawling under rocks?


Would you be happier if developers like Capcom just stayed within the limitations of the system and made something like Monster Hunter not meet it's full potential for everyone by not supporting this accessory?
This argument is kind of flawed. This addon is most likely something cooked up by Nintendo, not Capcom. Nintendo is using Monster Hunter, one of the biggest name titles in Japan, to ensure that this gets a large install base fast. Remember Monster Hunter Tri for Wii being packaged with a Classic Controller Pro before it was sold separately? It's the same as Valve making deals with game developers to require Steam to play a certain game.

[Leo_A]

What I said had nothing to do about the motivation behind this product or what software will be supporting it.

I was just posing a theoretical question to him. If he had the power as a 3DS owner to decide, would he rather have everyone be stuck with a single analog stick as their only option like the stock system has? Or allow developers to support this accessory to give gamers an option of selecting dual analog control in their games by purchasing this accessory?

His games will still be using a single analog stick either way. So I don't see what him or other disgruntled 3DS users would be losing by this accessory or a system revision being released. The only scenario I can think of where the experience of a stock 3DS owner could be harmed was if we had 3DS software that requires this accessory. But we have no sign of that at this time or reason to expect we will. Publishers will no doubt want to continue selling their software to stock 3DS system owners, so I don't see anyone requiring this accessory with their software.

I'd personally always vote for having options such as steering wheel support in a racing game, USB keyboard/mouse support in a fps, etc. Their presence doesn't damage the standard experience and provides the gamer the option of enhancing their experience if they decide to purchase and use the accessory.

That seems like a good thing from my perspective.

[sidnotcrazy]

Wow, I have to be honest and say I really thought this was fake, but hey lets hope it makes it to the states. Unlike the Arkanoid/Space Invaders Extreme paddle controller. Which I imported btw. What can I say? I luv me games!