Next Generation Classic

NEW SCOOP! Revolution's stand to be its power supply!

2006-02-16T20:13:00.000-08:00

According to a feature in the maiden issue of the Official Nintendo Magazine (street Date: February 16, 2006), the Revolution's stand will be its power supply.

"This stand also acts as a power supply for the DVD-case sized Revolution hardware"

So does that mean we have to sit the machine vertical? Maybe yes, but as you can see in this picture from the patent filed by Nintendo, there will be a traditional plug for a power adapter just like in your Gamecube. At first I thought that the stand is just well, a stand as you can see here. I guess, its best to wait for official confirmation.

Revolution to be a DS Download Service Hub

2005-09-20T04:24:00.000-07:00

This is old, but I think worth mentioning again.

In an interview with Nintendo President Satoru Iwata, he said that Revolution users will be able to download demos for the Nintendo DS much like the Nintendo DS Download Service found across Japan.

"Interestingly, the Nintendo boss also confirmed that Revolution users will be able to download demos for the Nintendo DS to the console and then transfer them wirelessly to their handhelds."

SOURCE: Eurogamer

Nintendo Innovates to make Money

2005-09-20T04:12:00.000-07:00

Danc over at Lost Garden has written a lot of good articles about the videogame industry. I especially liked his designer review of Advance Wars: Dual Strike. Anyway, check out his take on the Revolution Controller, why Nintendo innovates, and why does the videogaming industry need Nintendo. Oh man... I wish I could write like this, check it out!

Lost Garden: Nintendo's Genre Innovation Strategy: Thoughts on the Revolution's new controller.

NREV Link Dump - Miyamoto spanking Bill Gates Edition

2005-09-16T23:02:00.000-07:00

Shigeru Miyamoto spanking Bill. Nintendo's new controller offers a lot of possibilities.

Watch the FULL TOKYO GAME SHOW 2005 FORUM Keynote Speech by Nintendo's President Satoru Iwata.

How would you name a Revolution?

A mockup of the Revolution controller shell.

GamesIndustry.biz's Interview with Nintendo's head of European Developer Business - Marko Hein, on how will Nintendo expand gaming.

eToychest interviews Nintendo’s VP for Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Perrin Kaplan on Super Smash Bros Revolution, controller attachments, multiplatform games, and third party support.

Publisher's reaction to the controller are positive. I hope they really extend their support to this innovation.

Eurogamer interviews NOE's Senior Director of Marketing, Jim Merrick on how long has the controller been in development, protecting their new intellectual property, and the possibility of regaining market leadership. For more Jim Merrick CLICK HERE and HERE.

Reggie Fils-Aime quotes fix- "the possibilities of what you can do are quite mind-blowing"

Sony's own version of the remote control in 2010? hahahaha...

OMG porn is an untapped market!!! Make it possible developers hehehe...

A take on the Revolution Teaser Video

2005-09-15T23:55:00.000-07:00

With that video in mind and the details presented, it looks like some games will pose no problem (others will be enhanced), and some games will.

RPG - Not a problem
FPS - Better than ever for consoles (it can probably best the PC experience)
RTS - Better than ever
Fighters - Now here's a problem but can easily be solved by releasing a control pad with lots of buttons.
Platformers - no problem
Racers - not a problem or prolly better than ever
Action/adventure - better than ever
Flight games - Better than ever
Puzzlers - Not a problem
God games - Better than ever
Music games - Drumming, Baton waving, better than ever but some games may require peripherals other than the conroller
Party - Better than ever
Sports - Golf, Tennis, Billiards, Basketball, QB controls, Baseball. Probably better than ever.

Revolution Controller Teaser - The Future of Gameplay Video

2005-09-15T23:09:00.000-07:00

The future of gameplay is here. Watch it!

IGN Video
Mirror 1 (c/o Dagbladet.no)

NINTENDO REVOLUTION CONTROLLER PICS!

2005-09-15T21:11:00.000-07:00

Ending months of speculation, Nintendo President Satoru Iwata unveiled the revolutionary controller in a keynote speech today at the Tokyo Game Show’s annual event. Take a look at these images. And don't forget to click those links.

NEWS LINK DUMP....

Nintendo Press Release
SPECIAL REPORT: Miyamoto unveils Nintendo's Revolution controller (gamespot.com)
Viva Nintendo's Revolution (Edge Online)
Live from TGS: Iwata's Keynote (IGN)
TGS 2005: Hands-on the Revolution Controller (IGN)
Revolution Controller Finally Revealed (1UP)

In order to make people play Nintendo made bold innovations which was copied over & over again. Today it showed that the competition's controllers will look outdated before they've even gone on sale. Revolution is a console where the best ideas — not the biggest budgets — will win! More NEWS as it breaks.

UNCONFIRMED REVOLUTION REPORTS: Nintendo is Insane? or INNOVATIVE?

2005-09-15T14:31:00.000-07:00

And we're back! In a few hours from now, Iwata's keynote speech will happen in Japan. CLICK HERE, it will tell you what time it will happen in your Time Zone.

GAF will explode any moment now because of these comments posted by members Amir0x and Gaybrush Threepio.

According to Amir0x... IGN, Gamespot and other videogame journos have already got a look at the Revolution controller. This is the exact thing that he saw/heard

"I think you guys will freak out when you see the revolution controller... nintendo has gone insane!"

After that... Gaybrush's comments rocked the house.

"Sorry guys, don't mean to gloat, but........
An hour until I get a phone-call from Japan revealing all............haven't been this excited since my girlfriend said 'OK - I'll try it, but only once'
Woohoo"

"I got the phone call
Can't tell you much (losing job etc.) but:
1) It's a revolution
2) No-one on this thread has got it right yet (referring to GAF)
3) There are two sides to every story.........and two parts to this one in particular"

"Just seen pictures for the first time. This is the sexiest, most adult-looking product Nintendo have ever released. It's also gonna need some explaining, you don't get it just by looking at the pictures, it has to be explained to you."

"Apparently the initial reaction is very similar indeed to the reaction to the N64's controller, maybe even more extreme - if you play it, you get it - plus the controller's very iPod-like to look at, even in its dimensions........"

Gaybrush ended his day with this one...

"Right I'm off home, enjoy Mr. Iwata's speech!"

Concept pic from Doc Holliday
-imagine holding 2 of these at the same time-

OMGWTFBBQ TEH HYPE!!! Stay tune for more.

Team Aonuma to develop Zelda Revolution

2005-08-11T14:06:00.000-07:00

In an Interview with Club Nintendo (Nintendo’s official magazine for Latin America), Eiji Aonuma revealed that he was assigned to do Zelda Revolution. This just confirmed our Early Revolution Software List.

Here's that quote from the interview:

Club Nintendo: It would definitely be a sweet and anticipated relationship. Okay, three more questions. What’s your favorite Zelda game? And even though [Twilight Princess] is not finished yet, will there be a Revolution Zelda? Finally, who’s doing the illustrations and artwork on Twilight Princess?

Eiji Aonuma: I would say Ocarina of Time, simply because it was the first title in the series that I was involved with, and I would also mention Twilight Princess. About Zelda on Revolution, Mr. Iwata has assigned me with the task of doing a Zelda game for the upcoming platform. Regarding the artwork and illustrations, we have a team of designers in our development group, but specifically, Mr. Nakano – who has worked with the franchise for many years – is working on that.

For the FULL INTERVIEW, CLICK HERE

Create YOUR own REVOLUTION Control Pad

2005-08-06T00:11:00.000-07:00

Tired of those friggin' control pad rumors? Here's your chance to create your own REVOLUTION control pad. Nintendo might be checking....

Here's my creation

Nippon Ichi Interview: We are seriously thinking of working on Revolution

2005-08-04T03:57:00.000-07:00

Gamasutra conducted an interview with Nippon Ichi Software America's marketing coordinator Jack Niida. Nippon Ichi developed cult strategy games like La Pucelle Tactics, Disgaea & Phantom Brave for the PS2. The interview touched on topics like his thoughts on the growing US Anime & SRPG market, pleasing the core fans, state of the Japanese Industry, and their thoughts on Next Generation Gaming. Give Gamasutra the click love it deserves. Check out some of the choice quotes below.

Gamasutra: What is your staff size?

Niida: We are a small company. We do have freelancers, mainly for game testers. We have a lot of game testers that freelance part time. So in terms of full time employees, we have a total of five.

Gamasutra: Will Nippon Ichi be making games for next gen?

Niida: We are seriously thinking of working to Xbox 360 and also Revolution.

Gamasutra: Have you had any trouble getting SCEA to approve 2D games?

Niida: Sony's been very helpful, actually. We've been able to bring over all the titles that we submitted, and they seem to like the titles we brought over.

Gamasutra: Why do you think they're so receptive, when other companies complain of the difficulty of bringing out 2D titles on Sony consoles?

Niida: That's actually a surprise to me. We carefully select the games we want to bring over, making sure they're titles that we have a good chance of getting approved. We don't a long shot title that is a waste of time. In the end it comes down to the way you present it to Sony, it's fairly easy to convince them. They're actually really great guys to work for. We've built a mutual relationship and we're able to work together. They love 2D anime just as much as we do.

Gamasutra: Are they more willing to approve a 2D title if it's more of a budget price, or is that a factor?

Niida: I don't think it really matters, because with games like Atelier Iris, we just show the game, talk about it, convince them, and get approval. They didn't really mention the 2D part. We actually emphasize the 2D aspect of the game, saying there's 3D everywhere and there's still that niche 2D market out there, and Sony was willing to take the chance to try it.

SOURCE: Gamasutra

Revolution News: Link Dump Edition

2005-08-03T21:45:00.000-07:00

Metroid Prime 3 Developer Interview @ N-sider Forums. Citizens of Luminoth Temple are pissed right now because of the leak, they even banned the said poster. CHECK IT OUT. Check out the SUMMARY.

According to Mainichi News, Square Enix president Yoichi Wada suggested that Dragon Quest & Final Fantasy could be taking a multiplatform route in the next generation. This is enough to make a Nintendo fan excited, Wow! Check out the original 1UP article.

Kid Icarus Revolution Poster. This is a mock-up, but you know you want it to be real.

Nintendo @ Games Convention Developer Conference (Leipzig, Germany). Rumor has it that they will unveil something new.

Another friggin' Revolution Controller mock-up, now it's blurred. Check it out.

Nintendo Revolution Dev Kit or a PC casing? Hey there's a blue light, so it must be a revolution kit! :funny:

Another obvious attempt to make Nintendo fans look dumb. CLICK HERE.

This maybe late, but still news worthy. Check out the first trailer for the Nintendo Online Service. For every action, there's an equal and opposite reaction.

Revolution got the early shaft, Resident Evil 5 for XBOX 360 & PS3 only?

2005-07-20T01:07:00.000-07:00

Fresh from the pages of the latest Famitsu Weekly, comes a breaking announcement... Resident Evil 5 coming to XBOX 360 & PS3! Then all cynics came alive saying that Revolution was dead even before it began. Well, let's just hope we get the definitive version :LOL:

Details

- the game is not developed by Production Studio 4 nor Clover Studio
- produced by series veteran Jun Takeuchi (RE 1 & RE2, Onimusha 1 & 2, Street Fighter II)
- the game will use RE4's over-the-shoulder action style
- the main character will be Chris Redfield (speculation)
- part of the game takes place in a desert (to achieve a level of craziness and insanity as seen in RE4)
- the scorching sun scenario will set it apart from the other RE titles
- the game will emphasize on escaping from near-death situations
- it will introduce more badass enemies (better than ganado & that lake monster?)
- no release date has been set although he said that with a game of this scale, it will take them 3-5years to finish it

Well Mikami said that he would no longer be involved with the RE series after he finish RE4. Anyway, RE2 was the best RE game before RE4. So you have the producer of RE2 making RE5 that uses the RE4 gameplay and you will definitely get something good.

SOURCE: Famitsu Weekly / Capcom Press Release

Revolution Clicks

2005-06-23T21:02:00.000-07:00

Links, old and new...

Roundtable: David Gornoski and Matt Casamassina Discuss HD and More - Nintendo Now (06.23.05). The Editor-in-Chief of NintendoNow.com and the Editor of IGNCube.com discuss Revolution, HD, and the Hollywoodization of gaming. Read the full article. Matt stuck-up at HD?

Revolution Controller? - Infendo (06.22.05) Several Internet forums have posted a scan said to be taken from a Japanese magazine that reveals Nintendo's Revolution controller. The scan details two seperate pieces that contain an analog pad, d-pad, triggers, and buttons on either side. It's an interesting design, to be sure. But it's not real.

A Revolution in China - IGN.com (06.22.05) Nintendo plans to mass-produce Revolution in China to lower production costs and increase profits.

REVOLUTION LEAVES CAPCOM IN THE DARK - TotalVideoGames (06.21.05) A recent meeting of Capcom's vice president of R&D, Tatsuya Minami, and Capcom Production Studio 1 has revealed that even the developers closest to Nintendo have little idea as to what the Revolution gaming console will be.

Revolution Hardware Mock-ups Land: Best ‘My Friend Works at Nintendo!” Email This Year - Spong (06.21.05) An unknown source e-mailed all major gamesites with a selection of images that allegedly came from a friend that works with an advertising company contracted by Nintendo. Click for the images.

Back Catalog Renovation for Revolution

2005-06-21T20:33:00.000-07:00

From this

To this?

Looks like we'll get more than perfect emulations of back-catalog games. Nintendo President Satoru Iwata said that the company is considering visual makeovers for back catalog games.

Nintendo is currently looking into providing some of their older games with a complete visual makeover when users download them using the Revolution's upcoming online service, according to an interview with Nintendo president Saturo Iwata in the latest issue of Electronic Gaming Monthly.

"We are doing several experiments, including working with the original Super Mario Bros., with the new technology," said Iwata. "The game itself and the gameplay shall be identical, but the look will be different; it's possible that with Revolution, we may be able to see the old games with new looks."

SOURCE: 1UP.com

Revolution's Most Optimistic Market Share at 35%

2005-06-21T20:01:00.000-07:00

Game industry research group DFC Intelligence provides strategic market research and statistics on the video game, interactive entertainment and interactive broadcasting industries. They will be releasing detailed forecasts on gaming consoles market anytime soon (A five-year market forecasts through the year 2010). But for the mean time they described the best optimistic market share scenario for each of the next generation consoles:

Revolution - 35%
Xbox 360 - 40%
PlayStation 3 - 50%

SOURCE: DFC Intelligence

ATI Interview: Nintendo Revolution's GPU downplayed

2005-06-18T01:34:00.000-07:00

On a recent interview with german website Gamestar, ATI's European Developer Relation Manager Richard Huddy talked about Xbox 360 and most importantly where will Revolution's GPU stand against the competition. He said, "It’s so powerful (referring to Xbox 360's GPU) that I’d say that this feature alone makes the Xbox 360 technically superior to any other console planned for the next five years."

He was asked why the developing team of the Revolution GPU has no connections with the other teams at ATI? He said, "It would be very handy for ATI to share this information around between its various groups – but doing so would undermine the relationships that we have with the individual console companies. It’s important to Microsoft that it they suggest or request a feature in their graphics chips for their console that this doesn’t automatically mean that Nintendo get that for free too. And of course, it applies the other way round too, Nintendo need to be able to make their hardware design without fear that it could simply be copied by Microsoft. No console company would work with us without these rules."

SOURCE: Gamestar

Revolution European Launch in Q4 2006

2005-06-17T04:02:00.000-07:00

That's according to Ubisoft's Investor Center webpage. It's inside a PDF file that they posted today. It also stated that Xbox 360 will be available in the US and Europe this November and PS3 will have a Q3 2006 release.

CLICK TO ENLARGE

SOURCE: Ubisoft

Miyamoto Interview: On Mario 128, Revolution and more

2005-06-15T22:25:00.000-07:00

In a recent interview with Wired News, the most respected icon in the history of videogaming - Shigeru Miyamoto expressed some details about the elusive Mario 128 & Revolution. He also talked about the declining Japanese gaming industry and how games like Nintendogs and Brain Training DS can rejuvenate the seemingly stand-still outfit. Check out some quotable quotes below or better yet, CLICK HERE for the full interview.

On Mario 128

Wired News: But there's still no sign of the long-rumored Mario 128 for GameCube.

Miyamoto: It's still floating around. We're searching for that fundamental idea that's going to drive the next 3-D Mario game. But we're not sure when that's going to jump out at us. We're doing lots of tests with small groups.

Wired News: If that's the case -- if the design process is still at the point where you're doing experiments and tests -- is it even possible that Mario 128 could come out on GameCube at this point? Or is it definitely a Revolution title?

Miyamoto: We think we want it on Revolution.

Wired News: So, there will be no new GameCube Mario platform game.

Miyamoto: Right. The Mario team can't create too many games at the same time, so they're concentrating on the Revolution.

On Revolution

Wired News: At your E3 press conference, Nintendo announced that the Revolution will be able to download and play games from Nintendo's back catalog. Does that mean that the entire library of Nintendo-published games will be available?

Miyamoto: Technologically speaking, it's possible to run every previous Nintendo game. It's just a matter of picking which ones we want to have available.

Wired News: The Revolution's controller wasn't shown, but there has been a lot of speculation as to what special functionality it will have. Can you tell us about that?

Miyamoto: Nintendo is always trying to be on the forefront of control innovations, like the analog stick, rumble or wireless. As soon as these are available, our competitors snatch them up.

Because the user interface is going to drive the Revolution software design, that's what's going to make our software stand out. Nobody else is going to be able to do what we do with next-generation game software. So, I can't reveal anything. It's under wraps because it's the big gun.

SOURCE: Wired News

Metroid Prime 3: Another Look

2005-06-14T21:03:00.000-07:00

Okay I know, this is so E3.... but this is a snippet of the second conference for retailers only. The video, which is similar to what was shown on the press conference was created using something similar to GC DevKits, and as you can see, it's pre-rendered. The Revolution version will look a lot better.

Click here to watch

SOURCE: Hyrule.net

Famitsu Scans: Next Generation Survey

2005-06-13T22:51:00.000-07:00

Scans from the latest Weekly Famitsu Express.

The Japanese publication conducted another survey on next-generation consoles. This time the magazine polled the consumers as well as the retailers and developers on a variety of issues including most interesting features, design, cost, most wanted games, etc. Check out the scans below, followed by its translation.

General Opinion towards the console?
Favorable | Not favorable | No Opinion

PlayStation 3
Developers: 79.4% | 0.0 % | 20.6 %
Retailers: 87.0 % | 2.1 % | 10.9 %
Customers: 48.9 % | 33.8 % | 17.3 %

Revolution
Developers: 63.7 % | 3.0 % | 33.3 %
Retailers: 78.3 % | 4.3 % | 17.4 %
Customers: 65.4 % | 14.2 % | 20.4 %

Xbox 360
Developers: 66.7 % | 9.1 % | 24.2 %
Retailers: 58.7 % | 21.7 % | 19.6 %
Customers: 39.8 % | 31.2 % | 29.0 %

Five most interesting features?

Sony PlayStation3
High Graphics/Calculation processing power (94 votes)
Uses Blu-Ray Discs (53)
Has the next-gen CPU Cell (34)
Backwards compatibility up to PSone (16)
Up to seven wireless controllers (14)

Nintendo Revolution
Large 20-year software library (145)
New input and Interface (55)
Wi-Fi capabilities (48)
Tiny console (26)
Unannounced information (25)

Microsoft Xbox 360
Extended Xbox Live service (100)
Better software line-up (56)
High Graphics/Calculation processing power (36)
Changeable face plates (23)
Casing design (11)

What do you think of the design?
Great | Bad | No Opinion

PlayStation 3
Developers: 41.2% | 20.6% | 38.2%
Retailers: 34.1% | 18.2% | 47.7%
Customers: 31.9% | 40.8% | 27.3%

Revolution
Developers: 48.6% | 5.7% | 45.7%
Retailers: 51.2% | 11.6% | 37.2%
Customers: 43.4% | 13.3% | 43.3%

Xbox 360
Developers: 43.3% | 16.7% | 40.0%
Retailers: 23.3% | 16.3% | 60.4%
Customers: 31.3% | 23.6% | 45.1%

How much do you think each console will cost?

Developers
PS3: 35,000 - 40.000 Yen
Revolution: 25,000 - 30.000 Yen
Xbox 360: 35,000 - 40.000 Yen

Retailers
PS3: 35,000 - 40.000 Yen
Revolution: 20,000 - 25.000 Yen
Xbox 360: 35,000 - 40.000 Yen

Consumers
PS3: 35,000 - 40.000 Yen
Revolution: 20,000 - 25.000 Yen
Xbox 360: 30,000 - 35.000 Yen

Will you develop for each console?

PlayStation 3
12.8% - We are already developing.
38.5% - We will develop.
17.9% - We will consider development.
2.6% - We will not develop.
28.2% - No opinion/unknown.

Revolution
0.0% - We are already developing.
23.1% - We will develop.
17.9% - We will consider development.
10.3% - We will not develop.
48.7% - No opinion/unknown.

Xbox 360
28.2% - We are already developing.
12.8% - We will develop.
15.4% - We will consider development.
0.0% - We will not develop.
43.6% - No opinion/unknown.

Most Wanted Games

PlayStation 3

Retailers
Metal Gear Solid 4 (30)
Devil May Cry 4 (23)
Gundam (10)

Customers
Final Fantasy Series (90)
Metal Gear Solid 4 (73)
Shin Gran Turismo (31)

Revolution

Retailers
Shin Super Smash Bros. (25)
Zelda (22)
Super Mario (14)

Customers
Shin Super Smash Bros. (91)
Zelda (89)
Super Mario (64)

Xbox 360

Retailers
Blue Dragon (57)
Dead or Alive 4 (32)
Odyssey (5)

Customers
Blue Dragon (57)
Odyssey (85)
Dead or Alive 4 (46)

Which next-generation console will be the market leader?

Developers
PlayStation 3: 63.3%
Revolution: 20.0%
Xbox 360: 16.7%

Retailers
PlayStation 3: 88.7%
Revolution: 6.8%
Xbox 360: 4.5%

Consumers
PlayStation 3: 52.8%
Revolution: 29.9%
Xbox 360: 17.3%

Revolution Links

2005-06-13T09:52:00.000-07:00

Last Week's News, Compiled.

LucasArts to support all next-generation consoles - Boomtown(06.06.05)

RUMOR: Donkey Kong Revolution is coming - IGN(06.06.05)

Nintendo is planning on pay downloads as being the standard for their download service - IGN(06.07.05)

Revolution controller not done - Gamespot(06.07.05)

RUMOR: Nintendo Working On Next-Gen FPS? - RevoGaming(06.09.05)

No HD For Revolution - IGN(06.10.05)

RUMOR: Another Concept Revolution Controller - Gizmondo(06.12.05)

RUMOR: Revolution Specs - Nintendo Centrum(06.12.05)

Concept Revolution Boxart

2005-06-06T01:57:00.000-07:00

Here's something to excite a Revolution fan. Credit goes to ALEX0607 of Nintendo boards. Nicely done, very similar to Gamecube's boxart. We hope that when the real deal comes out, there's a "THE NINTENDO DIFFERENCE" phrase embazoned across it.

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Famitsu Scans: Revolution Info

2005-06-05T01:36:00.000-07:00

In the latest issue of Famitsu Weekly (Issue #861), the staff featured the Revolution. Most of the information printed are known to the readers of this blog. But what's interesting is that Famitsu stated that Nintendo had 221 published titles for NES/SNES/N64. They also used a Final Fantasy V pic to tell us it is possible to play other companies' old games through Revolution. So there are 221 games that can be downloaded from the download service (in Japan) not counting the possible third-party downloads.

CLICK IMAGES TO ENLARGE

On a sidenote, Famitsu also featured this week's "Japanese Next-Gen Console Interest." Now if only developer's interest is this good.

1) Revolution 226 points - 43%
2) PS3 183 points - 34.8%
3) Xbox360 117 points - 22.2%

EDITOR'S NOTE: Sorry for the foggy translation. The 221 published games includes GC titles. So it actually means 221 back-catalog games will be playable (not counting the third-party downloads) out of the box!

Latest Affiliate - Nintendo Centrum

2005-06-02T21:28:00.000-07:00

Next Generation Classic expands its affiliate family with the addition of Nintendo Centrum - a Nintendo gaming news weblog. Now go give Nintendo Centrum the click love that it deserves.

Famitsu asked its readers about Next-Gen Consoles

2005-05-29T01:00:00.000-07:00

Famitsu asked readers in its latest issue, which next-gen console interests them most.

Japanese Reader's Opinion

Nintendo Revolution

The console is very small and the design is atypical for Nintendo
The possibility to download old Famicom (NES) and Super Famicom (SNES) games
The console could possibly cause a Revolution, as the name says
Much is still a mystery and unclear unlike the competition, although it shows hope

Playstation 3

Outstanding technical specs, stands out against the competition
Backwards compatibility with PlayStation and Playstation 2 games
Has things such as Cell and Blu-ray, which are missing to the other consoles.
The design of the console and the controller is great

Xbox 360

The developers are a splendor, and it's a surprise that people like Akira Toriyama is on board
Square Enix supports the console
Name, housing color, dimensions, vertical setting of the console, technology and software lineup are more positive

SOURCE: Famitsu Weekly

RUMOR: Revolution Touchsensed?

2005-05-28T14:54:00.000-07:00

Nintendo to incorporate Immersion's new touchscreen technology that offers touch feedback output?

DESCRIPTION

With Immersion TouchSense technology, instead of feeling just the hard surface of the screen, graphical buttons can seem to depress and release. This responsive action supplies a more intuitive, natural, multisensory experience.

Using Immersion proprietary technology, the touchscreen can vibrate to create the perception of pressing three-dimensional switches, emulating crisp qualities and particular force and push-away characteristics. Based on software or firmware programming, touching different areas of the screen at different stages of operation produces the desired, context-sensitive feel for the user.

Immersion’s programmable haptic technology can supply fast response synchronized with sound and graphical image changes. Clarity and accuracy are unaffected for flat touchscreen sizes ranging from 2 to 19 inches, and the technology can be applied to all types of touchscreens including capacitive, resistive (4-, 5-, and 8-wire), surface acoustic wave, and infrared.

TouchSense Technology for Touchscreens (PDF)
Haptic Capabilities for Gaming (PDF)

This technology can actually be included to the rumored Revolution touchscreen controller. Immersion TouchSense Technology can transform any game into a multi-sensory experience by engaging the sense of touch. In addition to, Reginald Fils-Aime hinted on a possible Universal Control Pad in an IGN/G4 Interview - "We announced the ability to download and play the best NES games, S-NES games, N64 games, in addition to Revolution games and GameCube games.... If you put those controllers all lined up together, they're all very different. So think about what kind of device is going to allow you to play all those different types of games. It's pretty interesting."

Interesting indeed, according to Gamer Lounge: "It's likely that Nintendo Revolution's controller will have a similar Universal Configuration for NES, SNES, N64, GC, and Revolution."

For previous news regarding the touch screen controller (as leaked by the EA Insider) CLICK HERE

SOURCE: Immersion.com | Gamer Lounge

Revolution Interview Round-up (5.22-28.2005)

2005-05-28T13:56:00.001-07:00

This week's Interview Round-up

A lot of Revolution related interviews were released this week but the most notable was from MCV UK. According to the article, Nintendo Revolution won't be released until Q4 2006. US = Nov 06, Japan = Nov - Dec 06, PAL = Mar 07. Given MCV UK's integrity, this is looking like it's true.

Spring ’07 launch for PAL Revolution - MCV UK (05.27.05)

E3: Jim Merrick on Nintendo's European assault - GameIndustry.Biz (05.27.05)

Q&A: Nintendo Vice President George Harrison - Gamespot (05.26.05)

Nintendo Talks Revolution, Game Boy Micro and More - Gamedaily (05.25.05)

Shigeru Miyamoto – The SPOnG Interview (05.25.05)

Early Revolution Software List

2005-05-28T10:43:00.000-07:00

EAD Ninja strikes back!
Here's the early Nintendo Revolution software list

Super Smash Bros. Revolution

Projected Launch Title
Little Mac, Captain Olimar, & Pit likely candidates to lead new character entries
WiFi Enabled
Developer: HAL Labs

Super Mario Bros. Revolution

Projected Launch Title
Developer: New EAD Kyoto Team or Tokyo Sunshine/Jungle Beat Team

Original IP

Projected Launch Title
Developer: EAD - Pikmin Team(?)

Animal Crossing Revolution

Near Launch Release
In Early Development
Compatible with Animal Crossing DS
WiFi Enabled
Developer: EAD - Animal Crossing Team

Metroid Prime 3

Near Launch Release
In Early Development
Possible Third Person(?)
Expanded Multiplayer(?)
Developer: Retro Studios

Wario Ware Revolution

Likely Release Candidate or Near Launch Release
WiFi Enabled

Golden Sun Revolution

Near Launch Release
In Early Development
Developer: Camelot

The Legend of Zelda

Post-Launch Release
In Planning Stages
Developer: EAD - Team Aonuma

Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles Revolution

Near Launch Release
In Early Development
WiFi Enabled
Developer: Game Designer's Studio

SOURCE: EAD Ninja

SK teams up with Microsoft for Too Human

2005-05-19T15:44:00.000-07:00

Silicon Knights' most ambitious title first started as a PSOne game, announced at E3 1999. Too Human was scheduled to debut on the Playstation in the Summer of 2000 via a mammoth four-disc set. That is until Nintendo acquired Silicon Knights for their outstanding work on Eternal Darkness. After that, the game had been shrouded in mystery, at one point it was listed as a Gamecube title at Nintendo of Europe. Then came the much talked about split between Nintendo and SK which basically boiled down to the two companies having different philosophies.

In the latest issue of Electronic Gaming Monthly, the next step for former Nintendo 2nd party Silicon Knights has been revealed. They announced a publishing partnership with Microsoft to bring Too Human trilogy on Xbox 360.

READ MORE @ TooHuman.NET

More Revolution Details from Miyamoto & Reggie

2005-05-19T14:11:00.000-07:00

Miyamoto was interviewed by IGN/Gamespy and then later by G4TV on everything he can tell about Nintendo's next console. Meanwhile, Reggie had just held a press conference to discuss more about the Revolution.

Shigeru Miyamoto's IGN Interview Summary

Revolution development is going really well, they're going to use cutting-edge technology as well; however, the implementation of technology will be very different from the route that Sony & Microsoft is taking. They have given a general concept & Nintendo is going to save everything else when they're all set. At next year's E3, everything will be public as far as Revolution is concerned

They are looking at making a small, quiet, affordable console; and they will release specs when the chips are done and after finding out the systems peak performance in-game, not the raw power

Nintendo have not sent out development kits to developers yet. He said, "development kits for the Nintendo Revolution are very similar to the ones for the GameCube. So we feel that the environments are so similar that they will be able to start development very quickly upon receiving the development kits for Revolution." "I think we'll be able to send the development kits in a timeframe that pleases the developers. It's going to be in a time when it fits their development schedules well."

They opted not to show the control pad because their ideas could be stolen

Nintendo holding a Spaceworld in Japan this year is still being discussed

About Mario Revolution, he cannot say if it's Mario 128 or not, he mentioned it can be a Sunshine sequel too

Miyamoto will be the producer of Metroid Prime 3 along with MP2 producer Kensuke Tanabe

He's working really closely now with the director of the original Kid Icarus for a possible sequel on Revolution. He said, "Well, we obviously can't ignore that. Okay, we'll get the Eggplant Wizard coming back."

Nintendo have not set a price or determined a list of software for the Nintendo Revolution download service

Nintendo is curently collaborating with a short list of third party developers for next-gen games

Tina Wood of G4TV interviews Miyamoto
WATCH IT! - It's basically the same as Matt's Interview, with some DS discussion

Reggie talks about Revolution
WATCH IT!

SUMMARY came from CUBE-EUROPE

When asked after the interview why no Mario 128 was shown at the conference as promised, he apologised saying he could only show what Miyamoto would let him show...

He has confirmed Revolution versions of Mario, Metroid and Zelda are all in development.

Questioned about the Nintendo fan-video, he confirmed it was a fake, but would like the fan to give Nintendo's PR department a call!

Reggie says Nintendo will show the Revolution's controller when Sony and Microsoft have their specs locked down so they cannot steal the idea!

The next Revolution announcement "has its timetable", and at the right time, Nintendo will get the word out. "Keep hanging with us," says Reggie.

The Revolution will apparently bring "new genres", and new mixes of genres.

Reggie says there is a need for the Revolution "to combine the original NES, SNES, N64, and Gamecube controllers into one interface".

Additionally, Reggie has said Nintendo want to get more small developers on board for the Revolution.

Two New Nintendo Patents Uncovered

2005-05-19T02:32:00.000-07:00

Most probably a Revolution patent

1. External memory system having programmable graphics processor for use in a video game system or the like.

"An information processing apparatus including a unique, external memory unit having a programmable processor embodied therein. More particularly, the invention relates to a removable, external memory unit having a program memory storing a program to be executed in part by a host processing system, e.g., a video game system, and in part by a programmable microprocessor designed to enhance the high speed graphics processing capabilities of the host system."

2. System and method for automatically editing captured images for inclusion into 3D video game play

"The technology herein is directed to a game machine having the abilities to capture and/or transfer an image, to manipulate and edit the captured image, to incorporate the captured and/or manipulated captured image into a game that is being played on the game machine, and to map the captured image onto an animated player in the came so that the player has characteristics, e.g., facial features, that are derived from the captured image."

RUMOR: Nintendo Press Conference Part Deux? True Revolution later today.

2005-05-19T01:05:00.000-07:00

They call it as the THURSDAY-TON!!! The E3 when Nintendo would pull a prank on us and that we’d all get punk’d just like in the movie “The Game”. (Grain of salt needed)

Let me start first with this quote from the elusive Aries.

“I’m not going to give out the secret. It’s going to be very fun; wait until E3. Nintendo is going to roll out a trojan horse: something that looks innocent and weak and them bam, it will be unveiled. Just don’t make up your mind on the first day of E3.

My credibility will be proven on May 19th. I have already given you a hint about what will happen in the next few weeks. Pay close attention to some of the Nintendo related stories that will begin to pop up. So far, many have already been reported. Pay attention. And on the 19th, don’t automatically try to write me off. There is a big suprise in store for everyone. I’ve said that 100 times, but I can’t stress it enough.”

Proof of today's presentation.

1. A video from Nintendo.com outlining Nintendo's E3 schedule. Tuesday = Launch Party, Wednesday = E3 website live, Thursday = an exciting presentation.

2. E3 live schedule @ Gamespot

Will this be a repeat of last year's E3 "MEGATON," which never happened? We're only a few hours away from the truth. Stay tuned for more Revolution News.

More Revolution Pics - Colors, Side Bay

2005-05-18T23:49:00.000-07:00

Check out the previously hidden side bay of Nintendo Revolution, it will include GC ports for controllers/mic/bongos and memory card slots.

Click images to enlarge

Revolution Unveiling Pics

2005-05-17T13:32:00.000-07:00

Official Revolution Press Release

2005-05-17T12:59:00.000-07:00

Nintendo of America has put up an article and a press release highlighting all the information announced about the Revolution at E3 2005!

"After an impressive highlight reel showcasing upcoming GBA software, Mr. Iwata returned to the stage and gave the crowd what it was hoping for -- a first-look at a prototype of Nintendo's next console, code-name Revolution. Mr. Iwata revealed that Revolution will be arriving in 2006 and announced that the system will be backward compatible with Nintendo GameCube games. In addition, Revolution will have downloadable access to 20 years of fan-favorite titles originally released for Nintendo 64, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, and even the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES).

Mr. Iwata also announced that Revolution will feature wireless controllers and compatibility with the newly announced wireless gaming service Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. Many attendees cheered when Mr. Iwata revealed that key franchises will be compatible with Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection at launch, including Super Smash Bros.

Other details about Revolution include:

Sophisticated Design. The new console is approximately the size of three standard DVD cases stacked together, and it was displayed in a variety of prototype colors at E3. The console will come with a sleek silver stand allowing it to be displayed vertically or horizontally.

Backward Compatibility. Revolution will play all of your favorite Nintendo GameCube games. An innovative self-loading media bay will play both 12-centimeter optical discs used for the new system as well as Nintendo GameCube discs. You can also equip a small, self-contained attachment to play movies and other DVD content.

Huge Historic Library. Revolution will have downloadable access to 20 years of fan-favorite titles originally released for Nintendo 64, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and even the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES).

Big Names. Nintendo announced that new franchise properties will be added to current super-star franchises including Mario, Zelda, Super Smash Bros., Donkey Kong and Metroid.

Wi-Fi Freedom. A worldwide network of Nintendo players can gather to compete in a comfortable, inviting environment using Nintendo's newly announced wireless gaming service, Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection."

CLICK HERE for the full Press Release

Nintendo Revolution in High Resolution

2005-05-17T09:47:00.000-07:00

High-res shots uncovered @ Cube.IGN.

Revolution: The Ultimate Backwards Compatible Console! HDD in the bag.

2005-05-17T04:59:00.000-07:00

The countdown is almost over. We now know that Nintendo will be offering a download service featuring full versions of previous Nintendo games, and we assume that publishers will follow suit. If this happen, Nintendo's next console will be the ultimate backwards compatible machine! On a sidenote, we can safey assume that the system will include an HDD, probably a big one to archive downloaded games.

Anyway, in a few hours the truth will be told. Can Nintendo outshine Sony's Press Conference? We'll see.

First Glance at Nintendo Revolution

2005-05-17T02:18:00.000-07:00

"We've built Revolution around
the concept of 'all-access gaming'"

"We're about sticking to the soul of gaming."

Those were the words of NOA's VP of Corporate Affairs Perrin Kaplan saying that the system will be easily adapted by both gamers and game designers.

In an interview with Steven Kent, Kaplan mentioned that "Revolution will offer broadband access to a free Internet-based player matching service, similar to Xbox Live, that also will have downloadable versions of nearly every Nintendo game — from arcade classic Donkey Kong through current titles such as Mario Sunshine." She adds that "Nintendo hasn't decided whether downloading will be free."

Their competitors Microsoft and Sony had been vocal about their next-generation consoles in terms of power. Xbox 360 will be 10 to 13 times more powerful than the original Xbox, and the Playstation 3's processor will be 35 times more powerful than the Playstation 2. Nintendo have been modest instead downplaying the console's specs claiming that the next console will be two to three times more powerful than the Gamecube. She adds, "It's not all about having 'turbo power,' It's about what you do with it."

Analyst Richard Doherty of The Envisioneering Group says one of Revolution's chief advantages is that designers will find it far easier to create games for Revolution than for competing systems. "They do not need to make major changes from the games they were designing," he says. "They have better performance without having to do a lot of extra work."

SOURCE: USA TODAY

Rumor: Revolution is Nintendo ON

2005-05-13T16:21:00.000-07:00

The most professionally made concept video ever... Revolution is a HELMET-like thing!!! gasp

Download it now!

Why is it fake? Because there's no Registered sign after Nintendo, the environments shown in the Metroid segment was ripped from the Metroid Prime commercial/game, and Mario looks funky, character design is so not Nintendo unless the big N is creating a new character named Maluigi.

Perrin Kaplan: Revolution is a very very sleek device

2005-05-13T16:13:00.000-07:00

Nintendo of America's VP of Corporate Affairs teases us with some pre-E3 details.

In a recent NY Times interview, Perrin Kaplan has been quoted stating that the console is a "very, very sleek." The system will lay horizontally as Nintendo's previous consoles, and it was reportedly to be tiny, the height will be no more than three DVD cases stacked flatly on each other, or approximately less than 43mm, smaller than the Mac Mini!

The controllers will be wireless. The console will also be able to play high-definition games and regularly go online.

Touching on the media format, they are actually opting for the standard DVD medium. No details yet if it will be a double-sided DVD like everyone in this blog is speculating.

SOURCE: Cube.IGN NY Times

UPDATE: Revolution will be the smallest Nintendo console ever & it can be set up vertically. It will feature nonexistent loading times & low energy consumption.

SOURCE: Nintendo Europe

The Real Deal Between Silicon Knights-Nintendo Split

2005-05-12T08:32:00.000-07:00

Dennis Dyack Video Interview at IGN - Watch it!

He talks about the split from Nintendo which basically boiled down to the two companies having different philosophies.

SK wants to make "bigger, deeper, more meaningful games", they want to expand

Nintendo is intent on focusing on "smaller and simpler" titles

The size of their teams doubled since joining SEGA

"...in just talking to us over the last day and a half you'll see that we have this sort of grand approach to making large games, very heavily content driven games. Where when you look at Engagement Theory right away we're combining five elements of this gaming enviornment that's trying to create something that's not a smaller and simpler approach."

"....for next generation with Sega, Sega is looking at all of next-generation. whatever makes sense, we're gonna do."

For the full transcript, check out TooHuman.net

SOURCE: Cube.IGN | TooHuman.net

Nintendo Wi-Fi UPDATE: Square Enix president Youichi Wada praises Nintendo

2005-05-11T18:12:00.000-07:00

In an exclusive interview with Game Watch, Iwata gave a few comments regarding the company's Wi-Fi plans.

Nintendo plans on setting up 1,000 Wi-Fi access points at game retailers throughout Japan. DS users will be able to connect to these for free, although they can also use other access points available in their own homes. Iwata reminded that the Nintendo online service will have no subscription fee, but if third party developer's choose to charge a fee for their online enabled games(MMOPRG, etc) they can do so. He describes the wi-fi experience as seamless and they're hoping that gamers will feel like they're playing with a DS that's located in the same room.

Nintendo will be announcing a proper name for the Wi-Fi service at this year's E3.

SOURCE: Watch Impress

UPDATE:Square Enix president Youichi Wada praises Nintendo

He says he like what Nintendo have in store, and especially the fact that Nintendo's online plans allow you to play with people you know in real life. "It gives the image of taking the real world seamlessly into the virtual world." "The means of building a community will be completely different, and support and services will also change."

And now comes the Revolution part, "What increased our interest further, is that the next step is already being prepared for Revolution....Nintendo's online plan is not just a portable, not just a console -- it's exactly what we wanted in that it's the birth of a completely new platform....From here on, we'll have to challenge ourselves with content in response to what Nintendo offers. We would like to give strong support."

Square-Enix and Nintendo challenging online possibilities.

SOURCE: Watch Impress

Pre-E3 2005 Revolution Rumblings

2005-05-11T17:58:00.000-07:00

Uncovered from 2ch.net

Revolution development is moving just in time. There'll be playable titles at E3

Third parties include SEGA, Konami, Namco, Square-Enix and others

DS can be used as a controller and some games will make use of the touch panel

SOURCE: 2ch.net

MoSys: Revolution in mid-2006

2005-05-11T17:47:00.000-07:00

Revolution to be released in mid-2006, according to MoSys (Tech supplier to NEC - Revolution's RAM supplier)

LISTEN to MoSys webcast (it's on the 9th minute)

Revolution in the eyes of NOA's ex-employee

2005-05-11T17:00:00.000-07:00

The Aries Revelation Summary (grain of salt needed)
(warning: this is a bit old)

"Nintendo is going to roll out a trojan horse: something that looks innocent and weak and them bam, it will be unveiled."

The man they called Aries worked for NOA for 5 years and currently works for a major 3rd party developer who happens to be working on all three next generation consoles. According to him, they're working on a SEGA IP - Vectorman. He went out to point that Brooke Burgess' speculation was misleading the gaming community. He revealed a lot of Revolution info we never heard about, some too good to be true. According to him, some of the rumors circulating the net were planted by Nintendo and the developers working on the Revolution. Anyway, check out our big summary below:

THE CONSOLE

Nintendo Revolution will NOT use 3D images a la Spy Kids 3D

It will be much more powerful than Xbox 360 but underneath PS3 in terms of power (The PS3 is actually on a whole different plane performance-wise and neither the Revolution nor the Xbox 360 can get even close to it), but still... graphic whores downplaying the Revolution won't believe their eyes once they see it. It will be very capable according to Aries.

The disk format will play an interesting role in the “revolutionary” aspect of the console (He says someone from the brokensaints blog got it correct. There has been talk of dual sided discs that actually holds a ton of information - the disc is stationary and the laser actually revolves around the disc, the purpose is to almost completely eliminate load times)

Will connect with DS wirelessly

CONTROL PAD etc.

No touch screen control, it will be normal in the sense that it will have a D-pad and buttons

It will also have gyroscopic controls, but not all the games will use it

It will be wireless

There'll be pressure sensitive controls (the feeling will be like pressing a stress ball), located on the each of the controller’s handles (right under the L and R shoulder buttons), utilization will be optional. The pressure you put into it will determine certain things, such as movement, and speed

It will feature an Advance Voice Recognition Technology, through wireless headsets (it will be so advance, it's comparable to I Robot and AI)

ONLINE GAMING NETWORK

It will be free

He believes Nintendo has the best online network setup

An Internet Service, where you can check your email on the system, check previews and downloadable demos of DS and Revolution games, browse an exclusive electronic magazine similar to Nintendo Power

As you check your mail, you will also see various invitations from gamers on your buddy list who wants to play with you

Message boards as well as chat rooms will be available on the Revolution so that gamers can discuss and challenge each other all day

It will be able to download specific software in order to upgrade. This will allow for downloadable dictionary patches that will allow the system to understand even more words and phrases

DEVELOPERS ON BOARD
Development costs for the Xbox 360 are very high. The same can be said about the PS3, although it is easier to develop for than the Xbox 360. But with the Revolution, everything is cheaper and easier to navigate.

Electronic Arts
Square-Enix - game @ E3
Midway
Capcom
Namco
Konami
Majesco
SEGA
Aries' Company via SEGA
Zoonami - game @ E3
Activision

GAMES

New Mario game for Revolution - it's not Mario 128. It will introduce all the capabilities of the system - prussure sensitive controls, gyroscopic controls, as well as voice controls. From what he have seen, it will use mini games to introduce many of these schemes. All of these mini games can actually be released as stand alone games.

New Super Smash Bros. - it will demonstrate the online functions of the Revolution. Nintendo has added many new things into the game, including a deeper combat system, more special moves, as well as some very cool suprises. The levels will include some destructible environments, and the characters will be fully customizable. You can actually play as Mario in his 80’s outfit or the 90’s look... It’s your choice. The most innovative part of the game is the different modes. In previous games, you were allowed to play in giant mode, metal mode, small mode, etc. That has changed according to him.... you will be able to choose to play in a “Paper” mode (a la Paper Mario), a cel shaded mode (Wind Waker), or Viewtiful Joe-esque mode.

New FPS from Retro Studios - Revolution's "Halo killer" - it will use the gyroscopic controls for aiming as well as other things. It will be like Starcraft in that they allow you to choose which storyline you want to play. You will be able to switch to 3rd person in order to move faster (similar to running in Odd World: Stranger’s Wrath). Moreover, you will be able to “impregnate” human players by grabbing on to them for a certain amount of time. According to Aries, this will implant a NPC in them, which will burst out at your command, instantly killing the human player. You will then be able to use voice control to command the NPC.

Wave Race - it will have a surreal water effects and it will utilize the pressure sensitive controls. "It's going to top everything out there in respect to graphics. It is going to be the GT of water racing games."

New 3rd person futuristic action game co-developed by Eiji Aounoma & Hideo Kojima (the reason why he’s not working on MGS4). It's a mixture between Zelda & Ninja Gaiden, and you play as a cyborg ninja. "The earliest ideas I heard involved a cult of humans (humans are near extinction) who are menacing a cybernetic country. In the game, humans were almost wiped out by a race of higher beings, who then created cybernetic humans to take their place as rulers of the planet (not earth). The main character is one of the synthetic robots."

Camelot RPG - a new IP to combat the Final Fantasy franchise

Aries' Company - working on a 3rd person action game, Vectorman (an update to SEGA's classic). It will be like Halo and Ratchet and Clank 3 combined. It will support pressure sensitive controls, but they will be optional. It will use the voice controls for weapon and vehicle customization as well as AI controls. It will be online - right now it’s going to provide 40 person multiplayer battles, but this could change (and increase) in time.

SEGA - 3 games including a quirky SEGA-nesque game, which uses all of the system's capabilities, and some Xbox 360 ports

Zoonami - a stealth action game with a character better than Solid Snake & Sam Fisher

Square-Enix RPG - it will be a launch game

Namco game - not Soul Calibur III

Activision - Xbox 360 ports

SOURCE: Broken Saints Blog

Madden Next-Gen TV Commercial Now Online

2005-04-23T14:04:00.000-07:00

In-game graphics or rendered CG cutscenes?

Football fans must have seen this already on the first hour of the NFL draft. But for those of us busy at work and at play, EASports uploaded the commercial for our viewing pleasure.

The commercial shows a match between the Eagles and Giants, with McNabb helming the show. On the runback after the kickoff, Brian Westbrook is injured, bringing up a close-up scene ala C.S.I. The menu interface seems like it was inspired by Xbox Live.

The burning question amongst the people who saw the 60-second commercial: Are they in-game graphics? Well based on what I see, the menu, the sack cam, and QB's POV are in-game; the rest are pure CG. But according to Tiburon, the real Madden Next-Gen will look a hell of a lot better because these artist's conceptions were just estimates of what next-gen systems could do.

"...the people at Tiburon say that some of the Madden team didn't want these visuals seen, not because they are setting the bar too high, but too low. Seriously, they say that these are the visuals they were shooting for originally, but that the team now feels that they will be easily surpassed. And if that's the case, NFL fans are in for an amazing display of visual impact."

More news as it comes.

SOURCE: EA Sports | IGN Sports

The Big Secret Behind The Big N’s Next-Gen Console, Coming Soon

2005-04-23T00:51:00.000-07:00

Broken Saints creator and videogame industry veteran, Brooke Burgess drops hints about the Revolution.

Brooke Burgess, a former EA employee has dealt closely with console publishers in recent months and he plans to reveal what he's heard about Revolution on the Broken Saints website in the near future possibly next week.

"I’m ready to put my mouth where my limited funds may be and reveal the big secret behind the Big N’s next gen console. Dead serious. No shit included. But not today. Not yet. You’ll just have to check back regularly until month’s end for clues to the lingering mystery. And I’m betting you’ll have even more phosphorousy burning questions come E3 2005 - which’ll be our cue to proceed stirring a little more poo into the daily pot."

What's interesting is that he redirected us to the fixation point patent (for previous news regarding the fixation point patent, click here). So does it mean, the revolution is not only in the controls but also on how you view games (think holograms). Bring on the clues Mr. Burgess, E3 is fast approaching.

We're all waiting.

SOURCE: Broken Saints Blog

Nintendo partners with Broadcom for Next Generation Wireless Console Gaming

2005-04-19T08:14:00.000-07:00

Semi-conductor company, Broadcom Corp. announced a "strategic partnership" today with Nintendo, whereby it would provide wireless technology for Nintendo's next-generation gaming systems.

"The depth and breadth of Broadcom's wireless expertise will enable Nintendo to deliver the industry's most innovative gaming solutions," said Genyo Takeda, Senior Managing Director, General Manager, Integrated Research & Development Division for Nintendo. "By integrating Broadcom® wireless solutions into our next-generation systems, we can provide the high performance gaming and connectivity capabilities that will delight users of 'Revolution'."

"Broadcom is pleased to partner with technology leader Nintendo, whose visionary commitment to the user experience has inspired new uses for established wireless technology," said Robert A. Rango, Group Vice President of Broadcom's Mobile & Wireless Group. "With the broadest portfolio of maximum performance wireless solutions, we can provide all the connectivity pieces and advanced features required for exciting new consumer products."

According to their Website, Broadcom's 54g chipsets are the industry's leading Wi-Fi solutions, based on market share results from Forward Concepts.

802.11 Wireless Solutions is in the bag. Are they going to incorporate Voice over Wireless LAN (VoWLAN) & Bluetooth RF too? Stay tuned.

SOURCE: Broadcom Press Release | PR Newswire

Madden Next-Gen Commercial at NFL Draft

2005-04-18T21:02:00.000-07:00

EA announced today that they will give the world its first look at the next generation Madden NFL football. It will debut in a TV ad airing within the first hour of the NFL draft broadcast via ESPN, which begins at 12:00pm ET / 9am PT.

Check out the two teaser videos and Official Press Release at EASports.com

SOURCE: EASports.com Press Release

Iwata: Revolution Perfect For The Masses

2005-03-28T23:49:00.000-08:00

Designed to reach non-gamers.
User-friendly controls and games.
Manageable user interface.
Developer-friendly.

In a recent interview with Japanese publication Nikkei Business Daily, Nintendo President Satoru Iwata commented on Revolution. He touched on the need for simplicity in future game design, he went on to say that games have grown overly complex in recent years and this has chased away potential gamers and limited the appeal of videogames.

"A goal of ours with Revolution is to expand the target market for games. The current consoles are constantly getting more complicated. The number of buttons on Joypads has been increasing steadily in recent years, for instance. Hardcore players can still manage, but for inexperienced people and beginners the degree of complexity is too big of a barrier."

In order to reach these people and to motivate them to play games, Revolution will have a "User Interface" that everyone can manage. However, Iwata cannot yet discuss exact details.

In addition; the Revolution will use the same API (Application Programming Interface) used for the GameCube, cutting down on development costs and making development on the console easier.

Here's a funny concept control pad from one of our readers, just add a touch screen.

The Revolution Is In The Control Pad

2005-03-26T16:40:00.000-08:00

Game Informer magazine revealed that the Revolution's control pad will have no analog stick or shoulder buttons. "The touch screen on the face of the controller is designed to be fully customizable, so the developer can configure the buttons any way they see fit, or in other cases will not use buttons at all, instead opting for virtual levers and or other stylus-related inputs,” they added.

An EA Insider also leaked some info:

Apparently EA already have the prototypes for the new Nintendo console.

The control pad prototype had two handles, a left and a right one and in the middle was just a big touch screen. This touch screen can be mapped to any controls. It seems likely that all of the buttons can be mapped on it and can be placed in any configuration desirable by the designer to allow for optimal play with no limitations to the controller design.

The prototype control pad they received had no seperate analog stick or even shoulder buttons.

We like the touch screen idea, but we're not sure if we'll like the idea that all of the buttons being replaced. We'll see how it turns out I guess. E3 is fast approaching.

Sega acquires Silicon Knights!

2005-03-23T10:44:00.000-08:00

Next Generation Classic is a big fan of Silicon Knights, so press releases like this makes us go wild. This is it SK fans. We were like hoping for the prolonged insanity effect rumor and that they would still develop exclusively for Nintendo hehehe. We guess this is the second best thing... everybody knows that SEGA really wants to push multi-platform support. We hope to see some SK goodness gracing our Nintendo Revolution. Anyway, check the official PR below:

SEGA Partners with Silicon Knights to Create Next Generation Content; Acquisitions of Western Content Prime SEGA for Growth

SAN FRANCISCO & LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 23, 2005--SEGA of America, Inc. and SEGA, Europe Ltd. today announced an agreement to acquire and publish next-generation game content from Silicon Knights, the Ontario, Canada-based development team responsible for such hits as Metal Gear Solid: The Twin Snakes, Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain, and Eternal Darkness. The partnership brings SEGA more Western-developed content in preparation for high-growth opportunities presented by next-generation hardware platforms.

Under the terms of the worldwide exclusive deal, SEGA and Silicon Knights will collaborate on creating a new franchise for next generation console systems. This agreement, along with recent partnerships with publisher, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment (project: The Matrix Online); developer, Monolith Productions (project: Condemned); and the acquisition of esteemed developer, The Creative Assembly (project: Spartan: Total Warrior) continues to highlight SEGA's emphasis on the Western market.

"We intend to establish SEGA as a leading publisher on the next generation of game hardware and only the highest possible quality of Western-developed content will get us there," said Simon Jeffery, President and COO, SEGA of America. "Silicon Knights has a rich history of developing great games that push hardware technology, so we expect this relationship will result in a powerful, new, and highly commercial franchise."

"Silicon Knights believes that the next generation systems will be the catalyst propelling video games as the dominant form of entertainment in this century," said Denis Dyack, President of Silicon Knights. "We are very excited to collaborate with SEGA on a next generation project because we share a vision -- to take the medium of games to new heights and move people as never before."

SEGA will manage all marketing and distribution activities and work in hand with Silicon Knights to supervise ongoing game development. Both companies have decided not to release product, platform, or release details at this time.

About Silicon Knights:

Silicon Knights(R) is a guild of talented individuals who are dedicated to creating state-of-the-art and superior original video games through strong educational backgrounds, professional artists, and unique game design. The company believes that its culture has only begun to explore the potential of computer games and that computer games will evolve into the dominant art form of the 21st century. Silicon Knights aims to completely engage and immerse the game player by combining the very best elements of technology, art, music, game play, and story line. Silicon Knights Inc, incorporated in July 1992, is located in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada. For more information about Silicon Knights or any Silicon Knights product, please visit the company's web site at www.siliconknights.com.

About SEGA(R) Europe:

SEGA Europe Ltd. is the European Publishing arm of Tokyo, Japan-based SEGA Corporation, and a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment both inside and outside the home. The company develops, publishes and distributes interactive entertainment software products for a variety of hardware platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those manufactured by Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. SEGA Europe's web site is located at www.sega-europe.com.

About SEGA(R) of America:

SEGA of America. is the American Publishing arm of Tokyo, Japan-based SEGA Corporation, a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment both inside and outside the home. The company develops, publishes and distributes interactive entertainment software products for a variety of hardware platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those manufactured by Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment. SEGA of America's web site is located at www.sega.com/usa.

Quick News: Revolution to Feature High-end Video Output

2005-03-20T10:22:00.000-08:00

According to industry insiders Nintendo's next-gen console will feature HD support. This is interesting news since in June 2004, Nintendo engineer Genyo Takeda said: "You'll be able to play [Revolution] not just by linking up to a television but to a computer monitor as well." This only suggest a high-end video output.

Quick News: Factor 5 and Silicon Knights not working on Revolution

2005-03-19T10:42:00.000-08:00

Currently there are no Revolution plans for teams Factor 5 and Silicon Knights. They're gearing up for Xenon's release. We'll hear from them in the coming months.

Phantasy Star Online GC to be online on Revolution?

2005-03-15T02:56:00.000-08:00

That's according to PSO World.

"Phantasy Star Online has been confirmed for Nintendo Revolution, however its not how you think it would be.

Today Satoru Iwata, president of Nintendo confirmed that Nintendo Revolution will be backwards compatible with Gamecube games and the system will come with built in wireless standards at his keynotes speech. As such, PSO is confirmed in a compatible sense (EDIT: I got a note back saying the wireless capabilities should not hinder GC PSO versions and online functions should still work), and this is hot on the heels of the recent notes I was passed by Armion that SEGA is stepping up its online policies on cheating. There is still no confirmation on Episode IV however."

Take note that this is the notice he received from SEGA.

SOURCE: Gaming Evolution

New Iwata Interview regarding Revolution

2005-03-14T11:22:00.000-08:00

In an Interview with Businessweek, Nintendo's President Satoru Iwata discussed Nintendo's next generation console.

He said that the company have a number of candidates for a new interface but are not ready to reveal them and whatever they choose will be intuitive and easy to use for everyone. They may opt for voice commands and just install a microphone, but they realize a few of their competitors are already thinking of following them on this, so it will not be a defining feature of the new console. So the final features for the Revolution is still a mystery.

He also mentioned that development kits are already available to game creators.

SOURCE: Businessweek

Quick Analysis: NextGenClassic's take on Revolution's Control Pad

2005-03-11T04:41:00.000-08:00

Full backwards compatibility with GameCube games will only mean that it would use a conventional joypad layout. So that rules out the no button theory. And rules in the gyro GameCube pad, "touching is good, but feeling is better," flip-top touch screen theory.

Heart of A Gamer Blogcast

2005-03-11T04:27:00.000-08:00

Hear Satoru Iwata's keynote speech about his vision for Nintendo and the industry as a whole. Hear their exciting plans for the highly anticipated Revolution console.

Hear the Keynote Audio from Nintendo

Also Check:
Iwata Keynote Transcript from CUBE.IGN

Iwata Keynote Video from CUBE.IGN

Iwata's Heart of A Gamer Reveals Revolution

2005-03-11T03:41:00.000-08:00

Today Nintendo President Satoru Iwata delivered a keynote speech at the Game Developers Conference 2005, entitled "The Heart Of A Gamer." Among other things, he discussed the Nintendo Revolution.

Revolution Details

Will feature built-in Wi-Fi protocols, which will allow users around the world to connect with one another wirelessly.

CPU: Revolution’s technological heart developed with IBM and code-named "Broadway"

GPU: From ATI code-named "Hollywood"

It will include backward compatibility with all GameCube Games

According to Iwata the CPU is called Broadway because it is the capital of movie entertainment. And Hollywood for the GPU because it is the capital of movie entertainment. Iwata said that with Revolution, Nintendo is determined to create the new capital of interactive entertainment.

"We’re excited to be developing the graphics chip set for Revolution, which continues our longstanding relationship with Nintendo," says Dave Orton, ATI Technologies Inc.’s president and chief executive officer. "As the leading graphics provider, ATI is committed to delivering exceptional visual performance that enables consumers to interact with new and visually compelling digital worlds. ATI is proud to support Nintendo’s innovative contributions to gaming."

The Iwata History

Heart of a Gamer

Revolution's CPU and GPU

Reggie Fils-Aime on Revolution

2005-03-11T02:17:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Nintendo's VP of Sales and Marketing Reggie Fils-Aime was interviewed by CUBE.IGN and 1UP.com building excitement all over the gaming community before the BIG Iwata keynote speech.

Reggie on Revolution.

CUBE.IGN Interesting Points

Mario 128 could be a Revolution launch title and will be in video form at E3

Revolution technical specs to be unveiled at E3

Revolution will feature wireless capability. Nintendo is absolutely committed to the sense of community and the worldwide sense of playing games against each other.

Retro Studios is now working on Revolution

Development kits are on their way

DS online network will serve as an infrastructure for future online Revolution games

1UP.com Interesting Points

Nintendo missed the online boat on GameCube, they won't miss the boat again this time

Revolution will be a very sexy device.

Nintendo's goal is to have games of high-caliber available at launch of the Revolution. They will be working hard with third-party developers, spending a lot of time on both pre-dev kits as well as final dev kits.

Revolution will have a major presence at E3, but it will not be accessible on the show floor.

Continous support for GameCube, after the launch of Revolution.

Read the Full Articles
CUBE.IGN Interview
1UP Interview

Be sure to check out IGN's Video Interview

RUMOR: Revolution controller to feature flip-top screen.

2005-03-08T11:03:00.000-08:00

Our last rumor hopefully before GDC 2005. This rumor indicates that Nintendo will incorporate a touch screen to the controller of Revolution. This, if true can confirm rumors regarding Nintendo 21 (Controller is like GC controller but "rubbing" is possible - e.g. you can control movement in a game by rubbing the controller/buttons. Also the controller has a slot, The whole controller is pressure sensitive, So rubbing can be done with the buttons or via grip) and the "touching is good but feeling is better" made famous in Nintendo Boards.

Old School Gamer wrote:
About thirty minutes ago, I received an E-Mail from a buddy of mine that I graduated college with that now works for EA in their Florida location. The E-Mail stated the Revolution controller would feature a flip-top screen. Here's the E-Mail:

"...on Friday we had our weekly meeting with our technical director who obtained some info from some Nintendo. Since yer big time Nintendo ill tell you what he told us. The controller for their next system is gonna have a touch screen that flips on the backside of it. My boss tells me Nintendo wants developers to have an extra tool and provided a list of recommended features this can be used for. Some were cool and some were just ok. We are going to use it a playbook in the next Madden (btw I told you we would get the license!) so you can hide your plays if you play with buddies and also a grid to hold certain gameplans on. From the meeting I can tell he is in love with this feature already. example you can press on the grid that says 3 yard plays and choose a from a selection of plays that you input for those short yardage situations. The list also included stuff like using it for FPS to see behind you to avoid turtlers like me who hide in corners and try to ambush you so I don’t like that use :\ My boss said he got a lot more info the controller that in how words "is ****ing sweet" but cant say anything else due to stupid nda’s and ****. Ill let you know some more when I get some more info...

EK"

I don't claim this as fact, but I'm 99.9% certain this individual would not lie to me. Still, all I can gurantee you is that he's a good guy and this E-Mail is damn cool. Wait till E3, and we'll see for sure I hope.

SOURCE: Nintendophiles Forums

Revolution Online Announcement and Games Info at GDC 2005

2005-03-05T22:09:00.000-08:00

Club Nintendo had the chance to interview Nintendo's VP of Sales and Marketing Reginald Fils-Aime. Fils-Aime revealed that Nintendo is preparing to actually speak out on their online network plans for both the Nintendo DS, and their next console, the Revolution, at the upcoming Game Developer's Conference 2005. Nintendo President Satoru Iwata will be keynoting the event. It seems that GDC will be the place to be before E3. Check out the interview below, translated for your reading pleasure.

Club Nintendo: When will we see a real 'online' strategy on Nintendo's systems?

Reggie Fils-Aime: We'll be talking about online at the next E3. But we'll probably give you more information about this before the show.

-------------------------------------------------------------
CN: Does Nintendo have plans to launch more 'Teen' and 'Mature' games?

R: Yes. In the case of 'Mature' games we're working internally, as well as with licensees, to make sure that they develop big titles for that segment of people. For example the excitement of Resident Evil, that proves that people for those titles exist on the Nintendo GameCube. Something that Iwata and Miyamoto have seen is that those types of games are exciting, for this reason we'll keep launching them through licensees. For our part we'll keep developing our titles like: Mario, Metroid, Donkey Kong, etc. Something we do very well.
-------------------------------------------------------------
CN: The Nintendo Revolution will be demonstrated at E3?

R: Yes, we're going to demonstrate it.
-------------------------------------------------------------
CN: Will it be playable or only an exibition?

R: This I can't answer; you have to understand that Nintendo always keeps their information until the last minute, reason because the competition always reacts and copies all the innovations, like: wireless controllers, multiplayer games, etc. I can assure you that the surprises that you'll see with 'Revolution' will be more than you can imagine.
-------------------------------------------------------------
CN: What does Nintendo do with cases like Resident Evil 4, that were at first announced as exclusives and now aren't?

R: Resident Evil 4 is exclusive at this moment. We'll see when the competition comes out, how it works and what are its advantages, since this game was developed to take advantage of the capacity of the Nintendo GameCube. It probably won't be the same. The question is if we're going to keep developing exclusive games with licensees; the answer is: yes.
-------------------------------------------------------------
CN: Are the licensees working on titles for the 'Revolution' already?

R: We provided licensees certain information so they can begin to develop games. We'll talk about this in more detail at the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco in March. There we'll have a new opportunity to share information.

Time to kick some ass and take names.

SOURCE: Club Nintendo

Iwata on Revolution: I'm afraid that third-parties may not support Nintendo

2005-03-04T16:00:00.000-08:00

Interesting Revolution News from the latest MCV.

Nintendo president Satoru Iwata talked about the company's next generation console. Iwata stressed that the platform would be fundamentally different from other consoles, and said that its uniqueness may lead to a dry third-party support, but says that only gamers can decide the future of the industry.

"If the next generation platforms are going to create even more gorgeous looking games using further enhanced functionality, and if that next-gen market can still expand the games industry, then I'm afraid that third-parties may not support Nintendo,"

Expanding the market through Revolution.

"On the other hand, what we are trying to do is such a different thing, and people have come to realise that the approach we have taken with Nintendo DS can actually expand the market beyond what existing platforms can do - therefore I believe there should be more third-parties who are willing to support Nintendo's new ideas"

How much are you willing to pay for next-generation gaming?

"Already publishers are not hesitant in disclosing their concerns over next generation gaming platforms, and development costs are rising. Publishers are afraid... of whether [next-gen] consoles can appeal to people who are not the avid game fans of today."

Third party support for Revolution could depend entirely on whether or not publishers find the console appealing.

"If we can receive the support of the licensees, I believe we will expand third-party support. If our ideas cannot be appealing enough, then we cannot receive third-party support."

Time will tell whether the gaming public embrace an innovative console, or something revolutionary.

"How [gamers] are going to react to both these [options] shall determine the future of the games industry."

SOURCE: MCV Trade Publication

Revolution Presentation Still Unclear

2005-03-04T15:45:00.000-08:00

In the latest edition of Nintendo Dream, a Nintendo spokesperson revealed that their company has not yet finalized the details of the Revolution presentation for E3 2005 in LA. They haven't decided yet on what to show to the gaming press and showgoers. He said that Nintendo could reveal some videos envisaged on Revolution within the framework of a technical demonstration.

SOURCE: Nintendo Dream

Revolution development at Nintendo's HQ

2005-02-23T17:13:00.000-08:00

Senior Employee Shoo Naoto of Nintendo's Development Department revealed that their team is involved in the development of Nintendo Revolution and they are currently based at Nintendo's HQ. His work involves ways to minimize the costs of the final product (removing unnecessary parts, modification, and appraisal of the printed circuit board). He was also involved in the development of Nintendo Gamecube.

Shoo Naoto

SOURCE: Nintendo Japan

If I Owned Nintendo... An Editorial from Game Freaks 365

2005-02-18T01:24:00.000-08:00

Our affiliate Game Freaks 365 has a fresh editorial on what they would do if they own Nintendo, changes they would make in order to bring the Big N to the top. Very nice read indeed.

Read it by clicking HERE.

Camelot RPG coming to Nintendo Revolution

2005-02-17T16:31:00.000-08:00

A two page ad in this week's Famitsu reveals Camelot Software Planning is working on an RPG for a next-gen console, presumably Nintendo's Revolution. The catchphrases in the ad are "I want to do what I never thought possible" and "I want to make something that I've always wanted." The positions sought are programmer, graphic designer and planner. Camelot have worked on the Shining Force series for Sega, Minna no Golf for SCE, and Mario Golf, Mario Tennis and Golden Sun for Nintendo. They are also working on Mario Tennis for the Game Boy Advance.

Camelot stated in an interview a while back that they aren't currently working on any DS games, though they have some ideas for the future, and they have started work on their next project and would love to show it off at E3 if they could...This announcement only gives further proof to it being a Revolution game, and I sure hope they do show it off.

Here's the scan (Famitsu Weekly issue 846)

Golden Sun 3 moved to Revolution?

Next Generation Gaming?

2005-02-13T16:40:00.000-08:00

Cubed-3 featured a snippet of the possibilties for Next Generation Gaming.
It has nothing to do with Revolution but still very cool.

It isn't really footage of the Revolution in action, but it is just too interesting to ignore. This footage shows off technology being developed by a company in France, that allows for computer generated objects to interact with the world around them that is REAL. It shows a car driving around on a computer screen and interacting with objects in the real room in which the computer is located.

It's all in French (the speaking) and there is some rather nifty music to accompany it too (not our doing), but what is being shown is really quite amazing. The file is 1.2MB in size and in WMV format.

DOWNLOAD (1.2MB, WMV)

It could be done with a two camera set up.The computer could generate a 3D map based on the difference in position of objects in the 2 cameras.

SOURCE: Cubed3.com

Revolution Rumblings

2005-02-11T19:05:00.000-08:00

IGN Cube's E3 2005 Editorial featured some Revolution tidbits.

Nintendo shipping Revolution shortly before PS3
'Meaty details' about the console will be handed out at the upcoming Game Developers' Conference in March, where and when development kits will be distributed

Read the full IGN Editorial. Very nice read.

Why do we need a Revolution? Perrin Kaplan Responds

2005-02-11T18:50:00.000-08:00

In the latest IGN Nintendo Minute, Perrin Kaplan, NOA's VP of Corporate Affairs when asked "If the industry isn't broken, why does it need a Revolution?" responded:

Sony and Microsoft aren't going in the "wrong" direction, just the same direction. Nintendo's goal is to avoid taking products down the same traveled road year after year. New, innovative gaming inspires consumers -- as we're seeing with the success of Nintendo DS. We've been creating exciting, new video games and systems for a long time, and we now see a big opportunity to revitalize the industry with some much-needed creativity and fun.

We don't feel the market is broken -- just limited. Nintendo's goal is to increase the total number of game players in addition to serving current players. I know you're a fan of the iPod, a device that changed the music world while everyone else was focused on trying to create the perfect CD player. Likewise, Nintendo is paving a new road with new adventures on the horizon rather than accelerating down the same old path. You may consider this to be a risk, and you're probably not alone. But it's the risk-takers who create revolutions with new ideas. We're very confident in Nintendo's plans to continue bringing innovation and quality gaming to the industry.

SOURCE: IGN

It's official, Silicon Knights to develop games for Next Generation Consoles

2005-02-09T09:13:00.000-08:00

According to the Canadian newspaper "The Standard" Silicon Knights will concentrate working on Next-Generation consoles. They have been working on them since early 2004 (Note: Xbox.IGN reported before that SK got Xbox 2 development kits early).

"Silicon Knights proudly ranks as one of the world's top studios in video game development. We are focusing on the next-generation console technology and development and are looking for several exceptionally talented and creative individuals to join our development team."

According to the newspaper they also recruited in January:

Game Programmer
Character/Background Artists
Concept Artist
Level Designer
Sound Engineer/Designer
Writer

SOURCE: Just-Cubed

So are they going to develop for the Revolution, because according to some insiders there weren't development kits at this time, or something we don't know? Insiders also stressed that Dennis Dyack is not interested in developing for PS3.

Expect to hear more from Dennis Dyack tomorrow at the Bitnet Niagara Breakfast Seminar.

Nintendo in talks with Elpida for Revolution memory

2005-02-09T09:04:00.000-08:00

Another interesting tidbit from Reuters

Sakamoto said the world's fifth-largest DRAM chip maker was also in talks with Sony rival Nintendo Co. Ltd. (7974.OS: Quote, Profile, Research) to supply DRAM chips for its new game console, but that the final decision would be up to Nintendo.

Kyoto-based Nintendo also plans to unveil its new game console, codenamed "Revolution," in May.

So the NRev might have the same type of memory as PS3 (Rambus XDR-DRAM)? Or will it be something else? Note that one of the very nice things about Gamecube was its 1T-SRAM which, although really DRAM and not true SRAM, acted alot like SRAM in that 1T-SRAM hid the latencies very well, making it seem more like SRAM to the programmer. or something along those lines. The transmission delay between processor or GPU and memory was pretty small, compared to traditional DRAMs, especially compared to the Rambus DRAM used in Nintendo64.

Too Human for Revolution?

2005-02-06T22:21:00.000-08:00

It appears that just last month, Silicon Knights once again secured their trademark on the long awaited title Too Human. This lead the forumers of TooHuman.net to believe that the game is still in development, or at least, being planned. We have no idea if Too Human is still planned for the GameCube or maybe the Revolution.

Here's another article from gamefront

Silicon Knights schützt Namen Too Human

07.02.05 - Silicon Knights (Eternal Darkness) hat am 25.01.05 beim amerikanischen Patenamt Markenschutz für Too Human beantragt. Der Eintrag ist ein Hinweis darauf, dass sich Too Human wohl weiterhin in Entwicklung befindet und vielleicht bald vorgestellt werden könnte.

Die Infos zu Too Human sind wage, an dem bereits seit Jahren gearbeitet wird: So ist nicht klar, ob das Spiel noch auf dem Gamecube oder gleich auf dem Nachfolger Nintendo Revolution veröffentlicht wird - Silicon Knights hat hierzu bislang noch keine offizielle Ankündigung gemacht.

Möglicherweise weist der Eintrag auch auf eine E3 Präsentation hin, die im Mai 2005 in den USA stattfindet. Ein vorläufiges Logo hat Silicon Knights gleich mitangemeldet.

Basically saying SK applied for a patent on the Too Human name in the US, with an accompanying logo:

Okay what happened to the old Too Human Logo?

We were wondering what happened to the old Too Human Logo SK trademarked:

CLICK HERE 1 | 2 | 3

This is the registration

Word Mark TOO HUMAN
Goods and Services IC 028. US 022 023 038 050. G & S: computer software in the field of computer games; computer and video game accessories and peripherals; audio and video media; feature films; promotional items; written materials; clothing, headwear, and footwear
Standard Characters Claimed
Mark Drawing Code (4) STANDARD CHARACTER MARK
Serial Number 78553769
Filing Date January 25, 2005
Current Filing Basis 1B
Original Filing Basis 1B
Owner (APPLICANT) SILICON KNIGHTS INC. CORPORATION CANADA ONE SAINT PAUL STREET ST. CATHERINES CANADA L2R 7L2
Attorney of Record J. Mark Holland & Associates
Type of Mark TRADEMARK
Register PRINCIPAL
Live/Dead Indicator LIVE

Lobb talks Revolution (again)

2005-02-03T17:41:00.000-08:00

New interview, now from IGN.

QUOTE:

IGN: What do you think of Nintendo's Revolution?

Lobb: I really don't know much about the Revolution. There's been some rumor about networking directly between consoles and maybe tilt functionality or something, but beyond that I really don't know much about the Revolution. I'm sure that Nintendo, as always, will try to do something that's innovative. For them, lately, I mean I love Nintendo, I'm a big fan of their games, but sometimes innovation can be borderline not necessarily what I want to play.

I like games that are interesting and new. Katamari Damacy [for PS2], I was really excited it won a lot of [awards at DICE], it's a great game and I have a lot of respect for the people at Namco. But to me, that's a genre-like thing. I want to be able to play different genres on a console that also plays all the games that I'm familiar with [and play] with a control scheme that I'm used to.

And again, just the way online has invaded my life and what I want to play on a daily basis, I also think that that's an area where the Revolution -- I'm not sure if [Nintendo] is going to go after it.

Should we pay much attention to what a Microsoft employee thinks about the competition's system. I don't really think he knows too much about the Revolution.

Ken Lobb: "I love Nintendo..."

SOURCE: Xbox.IGN

Interview with Nintendo of Japan PR Office Manager Toyoda Ken

2005-02-03T15:08:00.000-08:00

Translation by ikachii - IGNCube Japanese correspondent.

QUOTE:

This interview with Nintendo of Japan PR Office Manager Toyoda Ken mainly centers on the DS, with the last portion of the article discussing the future of Nintendo. I took the liberty of translating this final part only.

Source: ITmedia Games

Q: You've got quite a number of events coming up this year.

A: At this stage, we are not contemplating any Nintendo-only events, and are first trying to concentrate on what we should do for this year's E3. Following the upcoming release of the DS in Europe, we are looking to use E3 as a means of generating additional momentum for the platform.

Currently, we are referring to our next-generation console by the codename "Revolution." However, exactly how we will both reveal and market that console is still on the table at this point. I'm sure our competitors are currently facing the same issues as well (laughs).

Q: Are you affected by external influence?

A: I'd be lying if I said I was paying it no mind, but I am not concerning myself with it too much. In the same way that the DS represents a unique answer of ours to the market, the fundamental approach to making things at Nintendo will not change. I also feel it's safe to say that we are embarking on a different direction than our competitors.

In regards to our next-generation console however, while I'm sure many are waiting to see what kind of curveball Nintendo will throw next, I will say that we have absolutely no intention of approacing our new hardware with the intent of making it an extension of the line of hardware we've released up to this point. Currently, we are conceiving methods of effectively conveying this difference in approach to the public, and in the process, conveying the idea of "here's another way to play [games]."

At any rate, we are still looking at E3 as a launching pad for the "Revolution" platform, and are deliberating if we should feature the actual console, visuals, or simply illustrate the concept behind it. At the same time, while we are aiming to make some form of a positive impression, we also want to avoid giving away too much, and are therefore currently in a dilemma about the situation. What we are sure of, however, is that fun isn't something that can be expressed in figures, and we are ever mindful of how we can illustrate the difference offered by our particular brand of fun."

FOURTH PILLAR?!
Nintendo further solidifies the notion that Revolution will truly live up to its name and deliver something unique. And what type of 'new marketing plan' are they cookin'?

DS: "Touch!"
Revolution: "Feel!"

Midway Chooses Unreal Engine 3 for Next Generation Games

2005-02-02T09:46:00.000-08:00

Midway announced that they will use Unreal Engine 3 Technology and Tools of Epic Games as development basis for next generation games.

Unreal Engine 3 Technology and Tools are currently used in the following studios:
Midway's Chicago studio (NBA Ballers, Mortal Kombat franchise),
Midway's Austin studio (AREA 51)
Surreal Software (The Suffering).

Unreal Engine 3

Malcolm UE3

SOURCE: Business Wire

What does 'Nintendo 21' stands for?

2005-02-02T09:37:00.000-08:00

Forums concensus lead us to believe that the '21' ultimately stands for the 21 years that Nintendo will have been in the US console business from the 1985 launch of NES to the rumored 2006 debut of Revolution. Some have pointed out that 21 could also simply stand for the 21st century.

Shock! Factor 5 is not working on Revolution.

2005-02-02T09:22:00.000-08:00

That's according to the latest edition of Cube.IGN Mailbag.

QUOTE:

Hey there. I was looking through my wishlist to add the new James Bond games and the new Lord of the Rings game to it (which you don't have up by the way, just letting you know) and I saw that the new Pilotwings game was cancelled!! How can this be?! I know Silicon Knights was supposed to do the game, and is no longer a second party, but does that mean that they aren't gonna do the game period?! I was highly anticipating an all new glorious Pilotwings game. Will it be made any time soon (and by soon I mean like within 6 months of Revolution launching)? Any information about this game would be great. Thanks.

Matt responds: Yeah, we cancelled the game in our release dates section. Actually, Silicon Knights was never going to make it. Factor 5 was signed up for that one, but it is not working on Revolution software, to my knowledge. If a new Pilot Wings game is in development, it has to be by another studio. It very well could be. Regardless though, the version we knew about is terminated and so we've removed it from the section.

SOURCE: IGN Mailbag

Could it be that Factor 5 abandoned Nintendo development? What of Thornado & Rouge Squadron series? More news as it comes, folks.

Update: Nintendo 21 Rough Sketch Translated

2005-01-31T07:59:00.000-08:00

For the Full Nintendo 21 Rumors, click here.
Here's the sketch translated.

Nintendo 21 Translated

Welcome our first affiliate! Gaming Evolution!

2005-01-31T07:38:00.000-08:00

GAMING EVOLUTION

Welcome to the NextGenClassic Affiliation! May we bring insider news and rumblings to the gaming community!

Cheers from NextGenClassic & more power to your site!

Of rumors and internet squatting

2005-01-28T12:27:00.000-08:00

Game Zero Revolution

According to Matt Cassamasina of IGN, the game codenamed Game Zero may very well be a Nintendo Revolution game, as Zoonami founder Martin Hollis has always said that the developer does not want to reveal anything about the game at this time because it is still a long, long ways off.

SOURCE: IGN Mailbag

-------------------------------------

http://www.nintendo21.com Domain Registered

http://www.nintendo21.com/ - check this site out, it says private nintendo technology

Domain Name: NINTENDO21.COM
Registrar: GO DADDY SOFTWARE, INC.
Whois Server: whois.godaddy.com
Referral URL: http://registrar.godaddy.com
Name Server: PARK19.SECURESERVER.NET
Name Server: PARK20.SECURESERVER.NET
Status: REGISTRAR-LOCKUpdated
Date: 27-jan-2005
Creation Date: 27-jan-2005
Expiration Date: 27-jan-2006
Registrant:danke hiroshi

Internet squatting? Looks like someone is trying to take a chance with this one hahaha

More Evidence: Nintendo Revolution "Different"

2005-01-28T12:18:00.000-08:00

This is from an interview with John Romero (creator of Doom, currently working at Midway).

QUOTE:

GD: Lastly, what are some of the changes that gamers will see over the next couple of years with the launches of new consoles from Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo?

JR: Expect a ton of graphics of high quality. I don't see any revolutions in game design on the XBOX2 and PS3, but we'll see something interesting on the Nintendo Revolution and the Nintendo DS is already doing some cool stuff with the dual screens. I truly respect Nintendo's forward thinking.

IGN News: Nintendo Updates Patent - Amid rumors, Nintendo makes something official.

2005-01-28T12:06:00.000-08:00

Here's something from IGN.Cube

QUOTE:

The patent describes a technology that would prevent a fixation point from moving and prevent the display area from changing in size. Regardless of where a player sits, he (or she) would command a deep view of the happenings on screen. This would also carry over into multiplayer gaming, where multiple players would normally require multiple fixation points. The new set of technologies would eliminate the strain associated with split-screen gaming. In summary, this would all make for excellent game sessions thanks to unparalleled view of the display. Changing the way a gamer watches the action unfold on-screen would be pretty revolutionary, but again, it's to early to tell what precisly the patent is refering to.

Nintendo Difference?

Changing the way a gamer watches the action

Another Revolution Rumor

2005-01-26T07:49:00.000-08:00

No idea how true this is, but if it's true, it is to be announced on 27th

- Name of machine is "Nintendo 21"
- planned for release at end of 2005
- medium is 2-sided 8cm disc, 5.4GB capacity, in a shellcase
- includes "Home Game function" which uses IEEE protocol to locate and communicate with other Nintendo 21s in the vicinity
- "Home Game function" is free, connect the AC adaptor and the machine talks to nearby Nintendo 21s and "Nintendo Home"s (? could be Form instead of Home - katakana is vague). Save data is stored on the main unit and affects other machines over the network.
- "Nintendo Home" machine is like a base station that will be put in many places and uses the PHS network for communication (popular mobile phone network). Will connect to handheld game machines and supports "Home Game function", also sends latest info from Nintendo.
- "Nintendo Home" is being jointly developed with Kyosera. - controller is like GC controller but "rubbing" is possible - e.g. you can control movement in a game by rubbing the controller/buttons. Also the controller has a slot.
- The whole controller is pressure sensitive. So rubbing can be done with the buttons or via grip.
- Digital outputs included

Nintendo 21 Rough design, really rough LOL

SOURCE: 2ch.net

Fresh Revolution Rumors

2005-01-25T16:46:00.000-08:00

Our News Weblog is starting to become a nest for rumors, hahaha. The pre-E3 hype is already here indeed!

I saw two rumors in the web today. Check it out.

Rumor # 1: Revolution will use a standard DVD-drive as well as Xbox 2
Source: Cube.IGN Mailbag

Hey Matt great site. I visit every day. My question is regarding what you think Nintendo will use for it's Revolution medium. Will it use Blu-Ray or HD-DVD? Judging from the past, one of them is surely destined to end up like the beta and the other to be hugely successful like VHS. I doubt they can both succeed. I personally feel that BLU-Ray may be the best choice. What are the advantages and disadvantages to both, and which would the big N benefit from more? Please let me know what you think. Thanks, Solid Snake Jake

Matt responds: The quick answer is that I don't know. But since I get paid like a million dollars a year to write this column (note: not actually true), and answer your questions, I'll speculate. I think that Revolution will use a standard DVD-drive. I believe this because Nintendo has always skimped on the storage medium. Always. It stuck with cartridges in the face of CDs and then it went and developed a smaller capacity proprietary disc in the face of DVDs. I think it will shun Blu-Ray and HD-DVD for the very same reason.
On top of that, word on the street is that Microsoft is going to stick with standard DVD technology with the successor to Xbox. Not Blu-Ray. And not HD-DVD, as some had suspected. The rumor is that NEC and Co. pitched Microsoft on the idea of using HD-DVD in Xbox 2, but couldn't deliver the drives at a cost anywhere close to what the Seattle-based giant needed to make this new console happen in the price-friendly range. If true, this is sure to give Nintendo yet another reason not to bother with either next-gen disc format. And if that happens, PlayStation 3 would likely arrive as the only console capable of playing high-definition movies out of the box.

I talked with some developers working on Xbox 2 about this situation.

"So, do you think this means that Sony's PS3 is going to ride the success of Blu-Ray in the same way that PS2 initially rode the success of DVD?" I asked.

"I honestly don't know," one said. "Right now, I'm not sure that Blu-Ray will matter. But then again, I thought the same thing about DVD this generation and look what happened to Nintendo."

As a tech-whore/video/audiophile, I am anticipating the arrival of Blu-Ray and HD-DVD as though both of them together could reveal all the secrets of the universe. But then I'm part of a small and undeniably pathetic group of early adopters, many of whom have yet to kiss a girl, that write e-mails about artifacting problems in the Battlestar Galactica miniseries DVD and eagerly await the next software download for their HD TiVo units.

Rumor # 2: Nintendo working on an online gaming strategy that would debut on DS and carry over to Revolution

SOURCE: C&VG

This is pretty much like confirmation of our old news we posted, but still.. for us here in nexgenclassic, a rumor until the big pre-E3 announcement.

A little bit of Revolution Rumors

2005-01-23T23:02:00.000-08:00

Mario 128 Details

New development team and new director working on the project, the SMS team left Kyoto to form most of the Nintendo Tokyo studio. So I guess Nintendo had no other choice in development for a few years
The biggest change will be the camera system (comments: the last time that happened we got RE4)
Nintendo is appealing Mario and Zelda to the mainstream gamers, no more quirky stuff. Zelda is supposed to be a mammoth franchise, and as business men, the company has a job to make it appeal to everyone. Wind Waker did not get the job done.
Media from Nintendo will be seen by late March-April to hype E3 presentation

Others

NST GBA game in development
Revolution partners will be very big names

Actually it's more of Mario128 Rumors hehehe, so there you go.... some rumors from our friendly EAD Insider.

Nintendo patents wireless functionality - FAQs included

2005-01-23T06:48:00.000-08:00

Here's a patent filed by Nintendo. It's about a Game machine having wireless communication capability. The wireless functionality may be built-into the video game machine or may be provided by a device that is removably attachable to the video game machine. The wireless functionality enables, among other things, enhanced multi-player capabilities, the ability to receive video game updates, new game levels and new games.

Although this patent generally relates to a portable game machine (probably GameBoy Evolution or maybe Nintendo DS) and, more particularly, to a portable game machine that is selectively configurable for one or more different operations such as wireless communications, global positioning, image capturing.....the principles may be adapted to other types of game machines including game consoles such as Nintendo Revolution.

It seems that Nintendo's cryptic comments about not using the traditional internet and other ways to "build a community" or go online could be accomplished via radio signals. Not really that farfetched eh? This would be a great soulution for Nintendo, if it were possible, because they wouldn't need to worry about people having broadband or wireless capabilities in their homes since radio signals can be received anywhere. And this fits in with Reggie's comments about "no-line" comment.

FAQs

Q: What's a GPS Cartridge?
A: A global positioning system (GPS) cartridge can be inserted to the machine. GPS is a satellite-based radio navigation system developed and operated by the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) and permits users to determine their three-dimensional position, velocity, and time. GPS utilizes satellites that are arranged in orbits such that at any time a minimum of six satellites will be in view to users anywhere in the world. The satellites continuously broadcast position and time data.

Q: What are Randomly Hidden Collectibles?
A: Hidden collectibles can be put into the game that are activated by messages. These could be traded with friends and competitors. Some collectibles could be dangerous to game play, others beneficial.

Q: Is it capable of multimedia messaging?
A: The system enables bi-directional transmission of messages with images and sound bytes to other pagers in the network using, for example, a digital camera cartridge in combination with a pager cartridge. The image and sound data may be compressed/decompressed in accordance with well-known compression/decompression techniques to more effectively utilize the available bandwidth. VoIP anyone?

Q: What's a Pager Cartridge?
A: A stand-alone accessory device, powered by its own power source (e.g., batteries), which can receive messages even when it is not attached to game machine. It includes a built-in cartridge slot to accept game cartridges or other accessories (such as read/write memory cartridges, a digital camera, etc.), thereby enabling game play or digital camera operations while pager cartridge is attached to the game machine.

Q: Read/Write cartridges? Can it be used to increase internal memory for storing large messages esp. those with images/sounds?
A: Yes! And it also accepts and store mini-games, game levels, game hints, tips, high scores, etc. for later viewing or use. It also permit the sharing of games and game information among game players.

Q: Tell me more about the Digital Camera Cartridge.
A: It is also insertable into the slot of the machine or into the slot of another cartridge such as the pager cartridge. It can capture images, which may then be transmitted to others via an operation using the paging cartridge.

Q: Other Cartridge Features?
A: It can emulate PDA/PC/Handheld games, software, & application!

Q: Wait a minute, this sounds like Nintendo DS!
A: I'm not sure if it's for the DS although I'm sure that this patent is an extension of the DS patent, but Nintendo can claim it to be original or inspired by the old patent. But to make a long story short, this copyright entitles Nintendo to make a portable gaming sytem with the said wireless communication capability which maybe built-in or detachable. And this technology may be adapted to a game console like the Revolution.

Perrin Kaplan talks Revolution

2005-01-22T01:41:00.000-08:00

IGN just had their first Nintendo Minute, where they ask one question to an NOA executive.
This week IGN's Matt Cassamasina asked Perrin Kaplan (NOA's VP of Corporate Affairs) about the NRev's Release date.

NOA's Perrin Kaplan

QUOTE:

Nintendo has indicated that it will launch Revolution against Sony's PS3, which is not expected to debut until 2006. Microsoft will allegedly release the successor to Xbox later this year. Why release the console against Sony's in 2006 and not against Microsoft's next in 2005? Do you foresee any drawbacks to releasing after Xbox 2?

Perrin Kaplan, VP of corporate affairs, Nintendo of America: Nintendo has yet to announce an official launch date for Revolution. So until that time, any rumored dates are pure speculation. Even in your question you've made an assumption we'll be after Microsoft and releasing around the same time as Sony. Aside from the 'date game,' most important is knowing if the next round of systems will bring gaming experiences brand new and innovative so consumers stay electrified.

Being first to market is no guarantee of success. The quality of what is launched is most important. We expect Revolution to be competitive because it will be innovative and a gas to play.

SOURCE: IGN

EA Sports Next Gen

2005-01-17T15:37:00.000-08:00

These test renders came from Fight Night Next Gen. The engine can be used on other EA titles as well. It seems that EA is really deep into nextgen game development.

Next Generation Graphics

Graphic whores alert

Madden create-a-player? Hellyeah!

HUGE HUGE RUMORS!

2005-01-15T18:59:00.000-08:00

There is this guy on the Nintendo Power & PlanetNintendo boards who is constantly handing out "insider" rumors and details about Nintendo's products. His sources have been right about many details such as the final DS specs and design, so he MIGHT be credible. Here's what he has to say about the Revolution:

QUOTE:

There has been a TON of speculation on Nintendo's upcoming console but little is actually known about it. There are so many different ideas that no one really knows what to think. So here are some supposed "facts" about the Revolution. I can't reveal my source because I've been asked not to. Sorry guys. I would say that this info has at least a 65% chance of being accurate. My source has been right before and he's also been wrong. Here goes......

Ok first things first. Yes, Nintendo will utilize gyros in it's controllers. I think most people pretty much already took this as fact. Also, the Rev will indeed have dual processors. Also broadband is built in, no modem to buy. Nintendo has an online strategy in development. It will be implemented on the DS first. There are no current plans to connect the DS and the Rev....the GB Evolution on the other hand......

The Rev will have four controller ports. It will have a hard drive which will be used in much the same way as the 64DD was supposed to be used. Things like Dolby Digital 5.1 and high def monitor support are included. There is no type of virtual reality or any kind of headset planned. It is backwards compatible with Gamecube games. It will use the HD-DVD format and not Sony's Blu-Ray. Controllers are not wireless, but wireless controllers are planned. It will launch with an unnamed Mario game and work on Zelda has already begun. Super Smash Brothers is in mid development and will be a launch title.

Ok so what's the Revolutionary part? That's what you all want to know. Well my source wouldn't tell me. He said it would get him into too much trouble, and could give Sony and Microsoft an advantage at this stage in the game. But he did say this; "if you think too hard you'll never guess what it is. It's nothing "new" technically speaking. It's just something that hasn't really been applied to video games yet."

He then said "touching is good but feeling is better". What exactly that means I have no idea. Some sort of force feedback device? We already have rumble packs.

SOURCE: Nintendo Forums

Paradigm Shift

2005-01-12T17:15:00.000-08:00

These are the words used by President Satoru Iwata to describe what would the Revolution bring to the gaming community.

"In an interview with the Kyoto Shimbun today, Nintendo's president Satoru Iwata said that the successor to GameCube, codenamed Revolution, would bring about a "paradigm shift."
Iwata explained that, just as Nintendo did with its recently released DS portable, it wants to create something unique with the new home platform. He indicated once more that Revolution could be a machine targeted specifically at the mainstream audience, saying that if something looks too complicated it could alienate players.
Last May, Nintendo announced that work was well underway on Revolution and that it would be unveiled in some form at the Electronics Entertainment Expo 2005. Very few specifics about the console have been released since, except for a few vague comments by Nintendo executives that it might not use a traditional controller and that it will be able to hook up to a computer monitor as well as a television.
Iwata also told the newspaper that with Revolution Nintendo wanted to create games that would move the industry forward."

SOURCE: IGN

EGM interviews Reggie Fils-Aime!

2005-01-04T17:47:00.000-08:00

The latest issue of EGM features an interview with Reggie Fils-Aime, Nintendo's Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

Nintendo's Reggie-lution!

EGM: What's your strategy heading into the next generation of consoles?

Reggie Fils-Aime: Last E3, we talked about Revolution the code name for our next home console system. And we talked about that we believe what the consumer wants is something innovative, something new and different. We've gone on record saying we'll be sharing much more detail [on Revolution] come E3, and that's our timing. We think sharing it before then, frankly shows too much to our competition. Which, unfortunately for us have a legacy of taking smart ideas that we develop and bring them to the marketplace rather quickly.

Taking Names & Kicking Ass

EGM: What kind of innovation are we talking about?

Reggie Fils-Aime: Well, the concept of a home system today is defined as hardware that you tether to a box, and you are tethered to it via a controller; we think that's an old paradigm. We think that the consumer wants some think much more innovative than that. Coupled with the concept of strong community and immersion into the gameplay, we think that's what we need to deliver on from a consumer proposition standpoint.

EGM: What can we expect from Revolution's debut at E3? Playable games? Technology announcements?

Reggie Fils-Aime: That we're going to go there and kick a** and take names. I'm not gonna tell you any more other than look at what we did last E3 with DS. We let people see it, touch it, get a strong reaction to it. Certainly that's what we're looking to do with Revolution.

EGM: What about the role of online with the next system?

Reggie Fils-Aime: What I would say is we are certainly working to deliver a sense of community. Is it going to be executed online? We're not sure-I'm not so sure. I'll be able to certainly say more over the next couple of months as I spend quite a bit of time with [Nintendo President] Mr. Iwata and [Mario creator] Mr. Miyamoto. I know Mr. Miyamoto has made comments about online specifically, but there's a lot of work to be done. And as we, from Nintendo of American perspective, look at the way technlogy is moving, we're certainly providing a point of view as to other ways to deliver a sense of community that, frankly, better fit with where today's consumer is going.

EGM: "Community" is typically used as another term for "online"-but when you use it, community doesn't necessarily have to do with the Internet at all, right?

Reggie Fils-Aime: That's correct. And I don't want to go into it because, I mean there are things that have been published in technical journals that talk about how to deliver a sense of community that is different than an Internet-based online experience. We will share much more come E3.

EGM: A recent Nintendo patent involved a machine that would allow you to surf the Web, watch television, and play games all at the same time. Does that have to do with the Revolution?

Reggie Fils-Aime: We create new technologies and apply for patents all the time. So I wouldn't assume any patents that we create are for Revoution. But we're going to continue to innovate, and we're going to continue to push the envelope in what we can provide to the gamer, to the consumer, that in the end delivers on three things that we believe drive this industry: great immersive games, new experiences, and value.

EGM: What will it take in the next cycle to catch Sony and become No. 1?

Reggie Fils-Aime: We need to deliever an innovative experience that the consumer wants. We need to deliever it at the same time as our competition when the [console] transition happens, meaning we can't be late into the market. And we need to fully enroll the best third-party developers to make great games for our system. If we successfully execute those three things, I guarantee you will have a great system, huge volume, high profitability, and a great proposition. But we have to do all three.

Where's Mario 128?

"We asked Fils-Aime if what's referred to as Mario 128 is still a Gamecube title. His answer "You know, Mr. Miyamoto said that quite emphatically in the last couple of days, so...it's coming out on the Gamecube!"

Happy New Year from NextGenClassic!

2005-01-02T23:07:00.000-08:00

Expect comprehensive news this year from your #1 Revolution News Blog - NextGenClassic.

2005 - The year of the Revolution

2005-01-02T22:55:00.000-08:00

Nintendo President Satoru Iwata has been talking to Japanese publications recently stating that 2004 was the year of the Nintendo DS, jumping from zero units at the end of November to nearly three million worldwide by the turn of the year. This year will be slightly different, in his opinion, with it being the 'Year of the Revolution.' Nintendo will showcase their next big thing come E3 2005 in May.

Satoru Iwata - Nintendo is all about Innovation

On a sidenote, reports indicate that the Revolution will not be a direct successor of the GameCube, but a product that will run alongside the current generation of Nintendo home console, similar to Nintendo DS being a third pillar instead of being the next gameboy.

More news as it breaks. Stay tuned to NextGenClassic for the latest Nrev developments.

SOURCE: jeux-france gamefront

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2004-12-31T19:41:00.000-08:00

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2004-12-31T02:20:00.000-08:00

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RUMOR: Revolution's Control Pad will lack D-pad and A/B buttons

2004-12-21T03:26:00.000-08:00

According to the latest issue of "The Diamond Weekly," a Japanese Economic Review Magazine, the Revolution's control-pad will lack a d-pad and A/B buttons. You may remember that President Iwata stressed that the Revolution will fundamentally change how games are played -- literally. He described it as a "videogame machine of a different nature that does not follow the conventional path of new game systems that increase speed and visual quality for making elaborate games."

The Diamond Weekly did not mention any other details about the Nintendo Revolution, nor did Nintendo made any comment or confirm this report, but it did mention that it will be revealed come E3 2005.

The Darkness Announced for Next-Gen Consoles

2004-12-21T02:39:00.000-08:00

Majesco and Starbreeze revealed a new next generation game, The Darkness. Majesco will be publishing the game, while Starbreeze (makers of Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay) will be developing it.

The game will be an adaptation of a comic book series of the same name, based on a 21-year-old assassin. It will either follow closely the comics or the upcoming Hollywood film adaption.

What next-gen console will it come out you say? Well it was confirmed for Xbox 2, but I expect it to be released to Revolution and PS3 as well. More news on it as it comes.

Nintendo patents Revolution? Tech Specs & FAQs

2004-12-20T21:12:00.000-08:00

It didn't mention the name but it's from Nintendo. It's a home console, and the date is August 3, 2004 for the patent itself. With these tech spec what else could it be? Here's the patent filed by Nintendo.

FAQs

Q: How many processors? How powerful?
A: 2 Processers, one main one, and one coprocessor for Graphics only (a graphics card) It said it would be very powerful but it didn't mention how powerful. Capable of "deep graphical worlds, and multiple onscreen images"

Q: Ram?
A: 500 Megabytes of RDRAM. DOUBLE that of both Xbox2 (256)and PS3 (also 256)! And it includes a RAM Expansion slot.

Q: Hard Drive?
A: YES! It didn't mention how much but it said "a bare minimum of 1 gig", 512 meg Buffer, and it said it can be used for downloading games, levels, and internet browsing!

Q: Internet?
A: It can be used for Interent browsing and even has a picture in picture so you can watch TV, and browse the Web. It also has "Head to head Online multiplayer". With up to four people on each console at home playing online head to head with even more people. And you can communicate with voice chat as well.

Q: Voicechat?
A: It also emails, but voice chat from an audio pickup (like DS) and voice recognition technology is also included!

Q: What about that controller?
A: Well aside from controls via voice, it also has a handheld controller, optional keyboard and mouse for the Net browsing, and optional gun controller. An IR universal remote control for turning on and off the system, TV, etc. and more "unspecified peripherals" The Gyro's weren't mentioned but it said the controller patents aren't in yet.

Q: What kind of online?
A: The modem operates at as little as 33 k and as much as high end broadband, it operates through an internet provider or your own broadband. It even mentioned aside from web browsing, online, emails, multiplay, and downloads of as much as a full game, downloading to SDRAM (yeah it mentioned that ram too) or streaming a tv channel(Nintendo TV? PiNoY-N TV? I'm interested). Anyway you'll have your own SN and unique identifiers.

Q: So with that hard drive....no Memory cards?
A: Memory cards are the best part, removable flash cartrides that store full games either downloaded or just game info.

Q: And the media?
A: DVD RAM disks, very high storage capacity, or a later specified media (it said they might change their mind on it, It might be re-writable).

Q: Are you sure this isn't the 64 DD?
A: I'm positive! This patent is an extension of it's patent though, so Nintendo can claim it to be original and it changes the add-on to a standalone console, and claim to be inspired by it. But to make a long story short, this copyright entitles Nintendo to make a system, of any variety, new or add-on, with the above tech specs they mentioned.