igforum.bio
/
amazon-s-efforts-to-tempt-gamers-show-why-we-need-dedicated-games-consoles-talking-point
-
620547
S
Amazon's Efforts To Tempt Gamers Show Why We Need Dedicated Games Consoles - Talking Point Nintendo Life But is Nintendo missing a trick here? by Share: Image: Damien McFerran / Nintendo Life 'Convergence' is a word that has often been mentioned when it comes to consumer tech, and we've seen firsthand how it can manifest itself; the smartphone that many of you will be reading these words on right now is a wonder of convergence, as it has made the camera, PDA, MP3 player and (for some people) portable games console obsolete.
visibility
638 views
thumb_up
39 likes
J
We're seeing convergence in other pieces of tech, too. Your PlayStation 4 is perfectly happy to stream music and play movies over the web, while many modern smart TVs now come with the same kind of functionality, as well as the ability to play (admittedly crude) games. Amid all of this activity and duplication of function (we've lost count how many devices we have plugged into the TV which are capable of running Netflix – something the TV can do natively anyway), there's one device which has remained steadfastly committed to its primary reason for existing, and that's the Nintendo Switch.
thumb_up
34 likes
M
Two years ago, the notion of releasing a games console that was focused solely on playing games might have seemed foolhardy; home consoles like the PS4 and Xbox One (particularly the latter) were pitched as being all-in-one solutions to your entertainment needs; the Xbox One, for example, was a device that not only played Gears of War but could also record sports and handle your video calls. Nintendo took the opposite route and, by and large, has stuck to that strategy ever since. Switch is a gaming platform first and foremost, and we've only just gotten YouTube on it.
thumb_up
28 likes
H
Despite the system's suitability for hosting apps like Netflix, Spotify and Amazon Instant Video, none of these services are available as yet – which strikes us as something of a missed opportunity, despite the fact that it would add yet another Netflix-ready piece of tech to many homes. Image: Damien McFerran / Nintendo Life Now, don't get us wrong; Nintendo's commitment to gaming is admirable.
thumb_up
42 likes
S
It hasn't allowed its focus to be distracted by media functionality that – as we've already touched upon – most people will already have access to via several other devices in their home. However, when you look at how other companies are slowly but surely encroaching on the gaming space, it could be time for Nintendo to open the door to such media-streaming applications to stay one step ahead and make Switch an even bigger success – or at least make it an even more essential part of the lives of the people who own it. What has brought this into sharp relief for us here at Nintendo Life is the timely arrival of a promotional Amazon Fire TV 4K stick, complete with a gaming controller.
thumb_up
12 likes
I
Why, you may ask, is Amazon sending devices like this to a gaming site? Simple: the company has recently collaborated with Sega to launch a special bundle of classic games on the Fire TV platform.
thumb_up
3 likes
R
This digital selection features a host of Mega Drive / Genesis games, many of which are also available on the collection, which recently launched on Switch. Now, we're not going to sing the praises of the Fire TV platform here; suffice to say, it's a likeable and affordable means of gaining access to streaming apps like Netflix, as well as Amazon's own enviable library of digital content. It also handles 4K and HDR video will ease.
thumb_up
12 likes
N
What really interested us is the fact that for such a high-profile attempt at winning over gamers, this promising hook-up with Sega is frustratingly wide of the mark. The emulation of these titles – many of which are approaching 30 years in age – leaves something to be desired, with audio suffering the most. Believe us, we know when the sound on isn't quite right, as we spent much of our childhood playing it (alongside regular trips to the Mushroom Kingdom, of course).
thumb_up
49 likes
A
The connection between the Fire TV stick and the Amazon-supplied (but by no means compulsory) SteelSeries Bluetooth controller is also rather sluggish and laggy, which contributes to the general feeling of disappointment. It's possible to play the games using the bundled Fire TV Remote held sideways, Wii Remote-style, but the directional pad is hopeless and the buttons are arranged in an odd manner.
thumb_up
37 likes
G
All in all, the Fire TV Stick does a pretty underwhelming job of selling itself as a games console. Image: Damien McFerran / Nintendo Life Now, if you buy a Fire TV Stick primarily for media consumption and you happen to find this selection of Sega classic sitting there, you'll no doubt consider this to be a nice little bonus.
thumb_up
12 likes
B
However, the execution is so poor that it serves as a timely reminder of just how vital it is to have 'dedicated' games consoles which don't try to cover every single possible base. Play Alien Storm on the Fire TV and then play the same game on Switch, and the difference is like night and day (at least to those who know the game inside-out). "Wait a second," we hear you cry.
thumb_up
18 likes
N
"You just said that Nintendo should start adding streaming services to Switch – isn't that contradicting what you're saying?" A fair point, but allow us to explain. The fact that Amazon is shoe-horning in gaming on its Fire TV platform shows that the company (which, lest we forget, has in gaming in the past) is eyeing the interactive entertainment sector as another possible revenue stream.
thumb_up
36 likes
S
Sure, its attempts have been lacklustre up until now, but if video game streaming takes off – – then Amazon, with its amazing cloud infrastructure, If you believe that cloud gaming is the future – and there are plenty of people who don't, we should point out – then you could argue that Nintendo has a very small window of opportunity with consoles like Switch. Amazon's fumbled attempts now may fail, but the company's endgame is surely to be to unite all forms of media under a single device – and it has the resource and technology to do it, even if it takes many years to get the formula right.
thumb_up
17 likes
M
Say that future is the one that comes to pass, Nintendo still has a chance to fight back – and what better way of doing that than making Switch 'input one' for millions of families all over the world? Consider this; by the end of 2019 Switch could potentially be installed under the TV sets of well over 40 million homes.
thumb_up
45 likes
V
Every single day, those same families are diligently docking their Switch consoles before using another system to access services like Netflix and Spotify. What if those services were already on Switch – there would be no need to shift your focus elsewhere; the other big benefit is Switch's portability, which means you could download the movie or TV series you're watching (MicroSD card permitting, of course) and take it on the road, making the most of that roomy screen.
thumb_up
31 likes
I
Talk about ticking all of the boxes, right? Image: Damien McFerran / Nintendo Life For some, this might seem like a rather clumsy line of thought; if Nintendo has succeeded by embracing gaming, why should it muddy the waters by positioning the Switch as a media device, especially when (as we've established) there are so many other devices out there that already offer the same functionality? In short, it's because Switch has done the hard part – it has sold itself to the masses and its commercial success is all but assured.
thumb_up
15 likes
D
Now, Nintendo can focus on building the console's usefulness to the average user by adding in value that ties them to the Switch concept even more rigidly – something that is going to be of vital importance if the company really does want to turn Switch into an 'iPad' style product which has a prolonged lifespan. We're clearly at a rather confusing place as far as consumer tech is concerned; a time when a stick designed to stream video and music to your TV can masquerade as a games console.
thumb_up
34 likes
E
Nintendo would have good reason to feel threatened by such a situation, but the opposite is perhaps true; the company has the most talked-about gaming system on the planet, and one that works both on your TV and out of the house. If there's ever a device that could become your go-to entertainment system, it's Switch – now we just need the apps to see if that is really the case.
thumb_up
8 likes
A
Share: About Damien has over a decade of professional writing experience under his belt, as well as a repulsively hairy belly. Rumours that he turned down a role in The Hobbit to work on Nintendo Life are, to the best of our knowledge, completely and utterly unfounded. Comments ) Nintendo has always prided themselves as being a gaming first console, all the way back to the gamecube era.
thumb_up
33 likes
M
Adding these apps I think is great for the average person that wants to be on their switch as their primary media hub, but on the other hand, this directly competes with people's attention to the games. If Nintendo embraces all the other streaming services, you could argue, it may hurt the indies and all other games that nintendo makes their money on.
thumb_up
16 likes
D
I feel like Nintendo has kinda tried to go down that route in the past and failed. After all, the Wii U was marketed as “the one box”, the only thing you would need to have hooked up to your television. Remember TVii?
thumb_up
43 likes
D
I think Nintendo is better off sticking to what it’s good at. Focus on games, and let Amazon do video streaming. Watches, calculators, notepads, cameras, voice recorders, music players, sat navs, and now tv viewers have all found themselves redundant pieces of tech as they sit in our phones.
thumb_up
20 likes
L
Now you don’t need a box under your tv to watch satellite programming. Eventually the gaming technology is going to be accessible through a telly or a phone at the quality we expect from a console- it may take 10 to 15 years but it will happen, and if the big boys get behind it, it won’t matter if people like me still want to buy carts to stick in a little box connected to the tv- we’ll just have to go along with it.
thumb_up
40 likes
K
It’s the difference between 100m console players to half a billion smart tv owners. The only problem they’ll have is controllers- what defines Nintendo and Sony and MS is having a high quality controller with little gimmicks to really give that console feel.
thumb_up
22 likes
A
I don't really understand what the limiting factor is with regards to netflix and other things appearing on it. Presumably Nintendo just rubber stamp things rather than say what can go on there so I'm not sure why the apps haven't been developed.
thumb_up
22 likes
O
Seems like it would be pretty trivial. It does seems a missed opportunity for Nintendo.
thumb_up
35 likes
L
Having multimedia apps on there is not going to diminish the identity of the Switch as a gaming machine, it just adds extra selling points for potential buyers with no negative effect for those who don’t want to utilise them. It also could draw them towards the games on the system. If someone is watching TV on a system and decide to play a game, it’s easier to stay on that system.
thumb_up
38 likes
S
I can only speak anecdotally but I know of two lost sales from colleagues/parents who went for a cheap tablet/XBox combo for the kids after being close to buying a Switch. They may be the only two in the world but I doubt it. Limiting the utility and attractiveness of the Switch for ideological reasons when generally people like options is odd.
thumb_up
26 likes
R
While I don't mind having additional features, I'll always stick to a device that's primarily meant for gaming, as I prefer the stress-free experience of just sticking a game in and playing it. I feel like they're going to need some kind of standardization to really make this everything-in-one-device approach work. I'm not dying to have Netflix on my switch but I would definitely use it if it were there.
thumb_up
1 likes
H
It's just more value for the dollar. Great read as always.
thumb_up
0 likes
I
It’s definetely a missed opportunity. The casual market is massive. The average person wants everything in one place.
thumb_up
24 likes
E
Be it games, movies music photos etc. With Amazon google or Apple. It might not hit it off now but building slowly the infrastructure for it for the future can only help these massive giants and slice dedicated console sales.
thumb_up
44 likes
G
All of us here might love it that the switch only does games and games first but that’s us who following gaming sites not the millions and millions out there that want the most out of their monies with possibilities and options. Everyone likes options. Right Lol @ gaming on the fire stick.
thumb_up
1 likes
C
It reminds me of the kind of gaming they had on Roku boxes and smart TV's. They might have a couple of decent titles but there is nothing exclusive and not much variety and the support is only there for a brief period of time. If Amazon really wanted to compete, I think they would put more focus on games.
thumb_up
15 likes
E
It had been a while since they had last mentioned gaming on fire devices and it's because it's mostly a novelty to them. I do think with the digital gaming boom, that Amazon may become more interested and if that's the case then I would be interested in seeing what they do. I don't want the market to be flooded like it was prior to 1983, but I don't want the industry to be an oligopoly ran by Sony, Microsoft, Nintendo, Valve, and Epic either.
thumb_up
4 likes
N
I'm surprised there's no link to buy the Fire TV stick. Yeah I can see that. I still can’t get past these scenarios in my head where not having these apps pushes users towards a PS4 or IPad/tablet instead of a Switch.
thumb_up
23 likes
J
Either buying or using. It’s like, I sort of get the thinking behind it, I just don’t massively agree. Like wearing crocs.
thumb_up
42 likes
S
Or James Corden. We have a Chromecast on each room with a TV and an ipad with all our entertainment apps. Whatever room we in we cast to that TV.
thumb_up
9 likes
G
Works perfectly.... One device to update, log-in and manage. I do not dock my Switch to my home TV anyway (I use my PS4 Or PC at home) and have my phone that is always online to stream content on the GO.
thumb_up
49 likes
L
Installed YouTube and Hulu on switch and yet to use them once... just give me big new games to play on my commute, airports and hotels. I said it many times and I say it again: Switch is the first real gaming console since ages.
thumb_up
9 likes
D
I hope Nintendo keeps that route. 3ds mp3 player was a masterpiece, dsp and pitch control, and soundeffects... “Two years ago, the notion of releasing a games console that was focused solely on playing games might have seemed foolhardy; home consoles like the PS4 and Xbox One (particularly the latter) were pitched as being all-in-one solutions to your entertainment needs”
Eh PE4 was pitched as focusing on games, it’s media functions were inferior to the PS3 for a couple years with it still missing a lot of it's features.
Eh PE4 was pitched as focusing on games, it’s media functions were inferior to the PS3 for a couple years with it still missing a lot of it's features.
thumb_up
20 likes
N
In 2013 it was well known you had to focus more on playing games didn’t you watch how PS4 vs Xbone played out? If the Switch is being used to stream Netflix to the family TV, that means I can’t slope off to play Dark Souls in bed. I think that’s Nintendo’s fundamental concern.
thumb_up
5 likes
M
It wants consumers playing games, and buying more games. If the console is competing with itself by also streaming movies and series, it’s kind of shooting itself in the foot.
thumb_up
21 likes
H
That’s the argument anyway. I wouldn’t mind the Netflix app, but I’m not short of alternative access either.
thumb_up
38 likes
A
And neither is anyone else with a Netflix subscription - nobody signed up in the hope it would come to Switch. We’ve been here before.
thumb_up
20 likes
D
I bought into the idea of the GameStick but the execution was terrible. Ditto with the Ouya. Dedicated games consoles remain the platform of choice for millions of gamers and it unlikely to ever truly change.
thumb_up
2 likes
N
What is proving interesting is how many types of games the industry is sustaining. All the best reviewed games from 2017 and 2018 were single player adventure games, a genre that was predicted to die off years ago but thrives. Then we have service games like Pokemon Go and Fortnite that offer a persistent profile regardless of the hardware you play on.
thumb_up
6 likes
L
There are casual titles enjoyed by millions on their way to work and there is a healthy market of bedroom and indie devs making a name for themselves. Retro gaming remains a popular pastime as the lure of nostalgia never runs dry. This is a great time to be a player of video games.
thumb_up
39 likes
A
I use my smartphone Vivo to watch Youtube, browsing internet and take pictures.
But for gaming time, Nintendo machines are always my choice.
But for gaming time, Nintendo machines are always my choice.
thumb_up
31 likes
G
? I think Nintendo has always thrived as the side-console.
It doesn’t really need to appeal to the broader audience with the all-in-one concept.
Also, they once again proved that they are king in the portable gaming market.
It doesn’t really need to appeal to the broader audience with the all-in-one concept.
Also, they once again proved that they are king in the portable gaming market.
thumb_up
46 likes
M
I do appreciate consoles trying to double as media players. It saves me HDMI slots by using my PS4 as a games console, DVD/Blu Ray player, and for streaming services, and I have 6 consoles already connected to my poor TV, but Steam Link doesn't work very well in my house, so streaming games have a long way to go.
thumb_up
16 likes
C
I'm so tired of "streaming games is the future, get over it." America needs much better Internet structure for that, and everyone complains "too expensive." Don't be fooled, Nintendo knows they're in competition with Netflix for your time. It's a simple sales strategy to forbid it from their console. I'm an old gamer, I don't need streaming services on my Switch, got them on everything else, but I don't think anything of value would be lost if they were there.
thumb_up
19 likes
E
I already have shifted from using my PS3 for YouTube on the TV to using my Switch, because it's less of a hassle to switch inputs when I can just dock (or not) and go. My wife uses it for Hulu too. I don't NEED Netflix on it but I wouldn't complain if it were there.
thumb_up
49 likes
C
I like the idea of VLC Media Player on it too. I don't see it as something Nintendo needs to act on to beat the competition or anything like that, but it would make the console even more appealing to the mainstream.
thumb_up
3 likes
N
It's an expensive handheld, but it would be a cheap streaming/media playing/gaming device. I've got YouTube on about every device in my house. I use it on Switch, sure, but if it had never come out on it, I wouldn't have missed it.
thumb_up
27 likes
A
Meanwhile, set-top boxes like Roku and Amazon are definitely not about games. While it's better than a phone, trying to play Tetris on a remote is impossible. That said, it's very easy to turn an Amazon Fire into a great emulation station, especially if you've already done so on an Android device.
thumb_up
48 likes
A
They very sneakily left off an external slot slot with their new ones, but it's very very easy to get around that. I’m still wowed I’m playing console games on a handheld I miss TVii.
thumb_up
47 likes
G
Was disappointed it was discontinued...and that it never reached full potential. I can understand that some people have no need or desire to use such apps on the Switch. However no one has been able to give me an adequate reason for not having the option.
thumb_up
14 likes
K
I do not understand how their presence on the device as a simple side option would detract from the primary function as a gaming device. I just don't. I didn't stop listening to music when that functionality became part of my phone.
thumb_up
18 likes
S
I didn't stop watching movies when I gained the option to watch video on the computer. Some have said that having video and music apps will somehow encumber the Switch.
thumb_up
26 likes
H
Like there mere existence on the device will slow it down. I am no programmer, but I can't fathom how that would work. Luckily when you're gonna watch netflix from your switch and your kid is playing on it in his room, you'll still have netflix available on your smart tv.
thumb_up
39 likes
M
I never used it, and honestly, I couldn’t even tell you what it was. agree, I don’t want to have to rely on internet to play a game...especially since I live in an area with less than optimal internet. If there were a way to have a digital copy with a physical game...
thumb_up
20 likes
J
Correct- The 3ds literally is THE best music player!
Not only is it handy as a practice and Composition tool for Musicians using the Pitch and speed control - but it has a slick UI that is instant without any of the nonsense that comes form using iTunes ir Google Play music players - nothing untoward that you don't want is shoved in your face! it's literally That good!
Not only is it handy as a practice and Composition tool for Musicians using the Pitch and speed control - but it has a slick UI that is instant without any of the nonsense that comes form using iTunes ir Google Play music players - nothing untoward that you don't want is shoved in your face! it's literally That good!
thumb_up
35 likes
Z
Interesting timing. I’m currently in the process of installing RetroArch on my FireStick 4k. I’ve been watching ETA Prime on You Tube and he’s got it playing N64 games with an Xbox one controller.
thumb_up
6 likes
V
I thought I’d load up my retro library on it and try it out once that USB adapter comes in. I think those apps will happen at some point, but I think nintendo thinks those apps will negatively effect the gaming companies and indies on their system. If consumer spends 100 hrs on netflix vs.
thumb_up
16 likes
J
100 hrs on 10 games, that's money out of their pocket. Nintendo has a huge hit with the Switch. It may go down as my favorite console of all time.
thumb_up
17 likes
J
Why stop now?! I'd love to see the likes of Netflix and other apps on the Switch.
thumb_up
6 likes
O
I see myself constantly putting away my switch just to use my Xbox One for Netflix. Pretty sure that recently even one of the top people at Nvidia admitted that streaming games will never be able to match a dedicated gaming PC, however good they get. There will always be a slight lag, which is no good for 'professionals'.
thumb_up
6 likes
N
I hope even if it becomes the norm (in the sense of it being 'good enough' for most normal gamers) there will be some resistance to a streaming-only future much like the resurgence of the once-dead vinyl market for music in the age of Spotify. Both Nintendo's games and the method of playing them - the unique hardware/controller - are equally important to the proper experience.
thumb_up
39 likes
C
If they become software-only they'll probably be as half-hearted and anonymous as Sega now are, sadly. This idea of a single-format future (now taking the form of streaming) historically is usually pushed by people who want to play Nintendo games but don't want to admit it and/or don't want to buy a Nintendo console to do so.
thumb_up
16 likes
L
Self-proclaimed 'hardcore gamers' whose manliness will be damaged by having a Nintendo 'toy' in their home. I dread a streaming-only landscape.
thumb_up
48 likes
J
I need Netflix for Switch... I don't have a smart TV. would rather leave the content streaming to my iphone on the go or appletv at home Yeah, I really don't understand it either.
thumb_up
28 likes
E
Options are options. Personally I have never even used the YouTube app on the Switch because I have a smart TV and phone, and would probably never watch Netflix on Switch either.
thumb_up
49 likes
C
Still, options are nice. I just don't really think it's a big deal either way.
thumb_up
23 likes
T
I thought you guys were gonna suggest Nintendo someday release a $50 Switch “stick” as a super low cost alternative form factor to try and reach mainstream consumers and broaden the customer base to near smartphone levels. And I’d say that’s crazy enough to maybe even work. In Target earlier I saw the ad touting over 1000 games on the Switch.
thumb_up
50 likes
A
That reminds me of the “Over 100,000 apps available” from early smartphone days basically saying “there’s something for everyone on here. Check out our eShop.” Put Wii Sports on there for free so “those” people can finally get rid of their Wii. That's just not true at all, the Switch is for sure a modern gaming console AND a dedicated overpriced port machine for last gen - all in one!
thumb_up
11 likes
S
(Sarcasm btw) I think Nintendo is smart to not allow Netflix on the Switch. Nintendo makes its money by selling its software.
thumb_up
6 likes
Z
If you can use the Switch to watch movies, then you're less likely to use it to play games. Besides, people who want a streaming device are most likely going to buy a streaming device without all that 'icky gaming stuff' on it. I never really believed in the march to 'control the living room with one device." That turned out to be a pipe dream now that the TV is decentralized.
thumb_up
26 likes
O
In the end, I want my gaming console to just be a gaming console. That Genesis Colection on Switch is crap, lag city as well.
thumb_up
17 likes
J
Sonic 2 was just awful. I called Nintendo and got my money back for yet another shoddy emulation product from Sega!
thumb_up
19 likes
L
No pride nor care from Sega anymore! Nintendo doesn't have the capacity to move into that space.
thumb_up
12 likes
N
They'd have to partner with another company, and I don't see that happening. Smartphones “made cameras obsolete“ you don’t know what your talking about I can take a Dslr camera that’s more than 10 years old with a decent lens and it’ll blow the doors off any current smartphone priced 1k and above based on that logic pc and console gaming is obsolete ? Argument makes no sense.
thumb_up
41 likes
O
Switch doesnt need streaming so people use their switch more. Why do you care if people use their switch more to do things your tv already does? The Switch needs to have great games to play.
thumb_up
9 likes
A
Yeah I get that and I see the ideology. I can just see it working the other way as well. If someone wants to watch some Netflix, they’re going to turn on another device, e.g.
thumb_up
45 likes
J
They are already on a gaming device and it’s easier to stay on that. Maybe they got an invite from a friend who saw them online.
thumb_up
33 likes
E
Similarly someone on a commute might opt for a tablet/IPad because they can watch a bit of TV then make do with Mario Run/Civilization/Papers Please/Bastion. It’s risky. One more point re.the article.
thumb_up
32 likes
K
That poor quality, laggy Megadrive Collection on Switch isn’t a good example to illustrate why Switch is so superior. I sold my copy, it was pointless. These gadgets have along way to go with gaming.
thumb_up
13 likes
M
Most of the games in their respective shops have no controller options and really suck trying to play with the remote. They are great for movies and recording and stuff like that.
thumb_up
32 likes
A
At this point I dont yhink they will ever be a dedicated gaming machine. As far as Cellphone gaming, its come a longway but is still short of the mark with most titles.
thumb_up
1 likes
J
I have had some fun with a couple cellphone games but always love my 3ds over gaming on my Cell. The choices are staggering and there is fun to be had at just about every machine to play. Until someone does better I will be sticking to my systems Wii and 3ds.
thumb_up
7 likes
J
Hopefully getting a switch soon. I have also been tempted by ps4 because the games are so much cheaper than switch now. This is a stupid article...
thumb_up
10 likes
O
Amazon has always been pushing all forms of media on it's fire products; notwithstanding I doubt it was amazon pushing the advertising of the Megadrive classics app... It had to be sega. And it's not amazon's fault sega's emulation was awful; it was sega's.
thumb_up
4 likes
C
Sega's emulation with exception of M2 has been poor many times. Try that same steel controller in another game and tell me if it has problems; if so maybe then maybe amazon or steel should fix something.
thumb_up
8 likes
E
I am not convinced the "controller" was laggy based on trying that game. As for nintendo; the media thing didn't really work for them on the wii u.
thumb_up
19 likes
B
The media thing advertising for the xbox one didn't really work for microsoft either... I don't believe nintendo is actively blocking netflix; as there is hulu; but nintendo doesn't really see it as an advantage to push netflix to add their app to the nintendo switch.
thumb_up
10 likes
I
If consumers want netflix really on the switch they should ask netflix. As for nintendo focusing on video games...
thumb_up
14 likes
S
not really. They tend to focus on creating gaming experiences (at home, on the go, and with others in a variety of ways); sometimes they succeed and other times... nope.
thumb_up
31 likes
J
Don't forget Amazon started just selling books. And some years from now it could be offering Nintendo games to play and a half decent controller.
thumb_up
34 likes
S
All Nintendo have is its characters, Mario and the rest. That is Nintendo, not consoles, controllers or gimmicks. Much like Disney.
thumb_up
26 likes
M
It does not have the biggest or fastest rides, but it has its characters and it is these characters that bring the magic to the fans. And like Nintendo these characters can't be manufactured over night, they evolve over generations.
thumb_up
49 likes
A
Already we see Mario on a smartphone so why not a PlayStation or on Amazon or Nexflix. Nintendo is a games company, consoles are just a means to play them on.
thumb_up
39 likes
K
Its good that the Switch has brought some gamers back to Nintendo, gamers that they lost because they failed with the Wii u. Now they are in danger of DS fans abandoning the Nintendo ship. If I were a PlayStation owner who had a DS, Im not sure I would invest in a Switch just to play a few Nintendo games on the not so portable Switch.
thumb_up
15 likes
I
We are now in 4k territory and soon 5k we need a Switch Pro to attract the 3d party new releases to fill the gap between Nintendo exclusives. And a portable Switch.
thumb_up
36 likes
A
I've never really thought about it before, but a device that can stream games could potentially be really cheap... as all it needs to do is stream data to and from their servers, right? I can imagine seeing an advert for a gaming device that wows with its awesome graphics to then reveal a super cheap price of £100, or whatever.
thumb_up
28 likes
L
Thing is though you'd always need an internet connection. I don't think we're quite there yet. I know WiFi is everywhere and everyone has their mobile internet but is it just too unreliable and laggy to be viable?
thumb_up
12 likes
J
I can see it taking off someday but I don't think I'm on board just yet. The logic for keeping most of the major streaming services off Switch really only works if the Switch is somehow the only device one owns that's capable of streaming video. The reality is that most Switch owners also own a PC, smartphone or tablet, many own smart TVs or set top boxes and a good number own one or both competing consoles.
thumb_up
39 likes
Z
Nintendo is competing with ALL of these devices for users' time and attention. This being the case, having Netflix and Amazon and etc.
thumb_up
24 likes
D
on the Switch can only benefit the system. Someone streaming entertainment content through their Switch may also buy and play games as long as they're using the system anyway, but you can't sell games to someone that's watching Netflix elsewhere because Switch doesn't have it and if someone wants to watch Netflix they can and will watch it elsewhere rather than play games instead. I have a Fire stick on every TV (except my main) but the games on them are just a novelty.
thumb_up
42 likes
V
When they start running something like AC Odyssey I might take notice. I'd like to see Netflix and other apps on the Switch.
thumb_up
13 likes
M
I wouldn't use it on my TV as it doesn't support 4K, but it would be good for portable use with downloaded content. As for streaming games, the Switch should be the ideal system as it supports HEVC, something that the other consoles don't.
thumb_up
36 likes
Z
It's pretty simple really... For every moment you're on the Switch watching YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, etc... You're not playing/buying games.
thumb_up
7 likes
V
Until they make good money selling the hardware, there's no upside in Nintendo taking your eyes off of their software sales potential in you. I don’t understand how the Fire TV stick could work to play games.
thumb_up
41 likes
T
I get about 3 seconds input delay ON THE MENU SCREEN! well that's just a very defeatest and blinded fan boy point of view.
thumb_up
27 likes
S
Tvii didn't work because Nitendo simply didn't invest themselves fully in it and weren't willing too, the Wii U wasn't advertised. Add Nintendo weren't willing to pay the nominal licensing fees required for content and even full RGB HDMI support or Dolby and other standards that are expected in the modern era. Netflix, YouTube, Crunchy roll, Amazon, hulu, iplayer etc all worked with ease during the Wii U's supported lifespan and the Web browser had really good functionality.
thumb_up
7 likes
R
Why Switch can't have this is likely due to the potential of slowing the system down. I feel like you’re just proving my point.
thumb_up
36 likes
Z
TVii didn’t work because it was outside of Nintendo’s area of expertise. And yes, the Wii U had all those video apps, but so what? The Wii U was a flop.
thumb_up
38 likes
J
The success of the Switch is proof that there is a market for a device that does nothing but play video games. Would Netflix and so on make the Switch worse?
thumb_up
24 likes
M
Probably not, but it also wouldn’t really make the Switch better. I highly doubt many people are making a purchasing decision regarding the Switch based on whether or not it has video streaming apps.
thumb_up
14 likes
M
I feel like the size of the Switch is excusable for gaming but not necessarily for movies, TV, or music. I'd imagine most people would rather stick to using their phones for media apps while on-the-go as it's a lot more discreet.
thumb_up
44 likes
J
I think in this day and age it's okay for Switch to be focused primarily on gaming. The Switch having these apps wouldn't hurt anyone, but I don't think people care about it as a selling point anymore because they already have a hundred devices at home that can play Netflix and YouTube. Personally I wouldn't bother downloading any media apps, as I rather like to keep my Switch gaming-only.
thumb_up
5 likes
L
I really love Hulu on Switch. The Switch is my only game console and I prefer a gaming controller to navigate the UI rather than arrow keys on a TV remote.
thumb_up
34 likes
J
I'd love Netflix and Prime on Switch. It's not as simple as you think.
thumb_up
7 likes
E
Given all the devices the Switch is in competition with, it's not as simple as "Use Switch for games or use Switch for not-games." Those are far from being the only options available to people. There are no downsides to having more streaming services on the Switch, especially since it and its software are already selling like gangbusters and Netflix is unlikely to cut into that to any significant degree. That's an interstitial step and already possible, given it's basically what Microsoft wanted to do with the Xbone before they got shamed into reversing direction.
thumb_up
40 likes
E
A true streaming console (or more likely, games streamed to existing hardware like smart TVs and set top boxes) will happen eventually, it's inevitable, but the technology isn't there yet and won't be for a while. Yeah, it's nice in handheld mode, way bigger screen than my phone, plus its own built-in kickstand.
thumb_up
5 likes
S
I prefer to use the built in smart functions on my TV, mostly because it supports 4K and the Switch doesn't. Considering how often I encounter people on the bus watching tv on their phones with the volume at full blast, I'm not sure discretion is a concern for many. I'm not sure why the size would be an issue anyway, the Switch has a bigger screen than any phone and if you're listening on headphones, that's plenty discreet.
thumb_up
48 likes
R
Portability and battery life are issues to consider to be sure, but size and "discretion"? I don't see it.
thumb_up
27 likes
D
Long story short, if some people want to keep their Switch a gaming-only device that's their prerogative, but the arguments against bringing streaming services to the console just don't hold water. To be fair, this seems to be a standard problem with the Switch more so than an issue with internet speed. I rarely have any connectivity problems gaming on my PS4, but with the Switch it's a constant issue.
thumb_up
4 likes
N
Mind you, the PS4 is connected directly to my router while I use wifi with the Switch. Connecting it physically might help, but I'll need to buy an adapter for that. Glad I didn't spend the (small amount of) cash for any of the SEGA classics on the Fire TV stick.
thumb_up
16 likes
H
I was tempted. Gaming from the company that says "Order today, Friday 1/18 with Prime Free 2-Day Shipping, get it Wednesday, 1/23!" And then you upgrade to 1-day shipping for $8.99. And it still shows it'll be delivered Wednesday 1/23.
thumb_up
46 likes
B
And it arrived in your area's distribution center on Monday 1/21 while they just sit on it for a day and a half just to force you to wait for your free 2-day delivery to take 5 days. All for the low price of $119.99/yr for the privilege. I just can't wait for Amazon gaming where I can subscribe for $10/mo and get early access to thousands of hit games a month after they launch, before being spontaneously removed from the list of available games at 3:00AM on a Thursday in March with no explanation and no trace it was ever there to begin with.
thumb_up
41 likes
G
Leave A Comment Hold on there, you need to to post a comment...
Related Articles
Which version will you choose? Gotta ban some more Blue sky blues Should you rush to get it?
thumb_up
22 likes
E
Adieu Joy-Cons?
thumb_up
33 likes
Similar Discussions
-
Chelsea player could still move to Fenerbahce after move to Premier League side collapsed on deadline day Reports
-
Pistons Jaden Ivey Just misses double double Friday CBSSports com
-
Erie Sports Center APK Download for Android
-
ブレインブーム：言語系なぞなぞゲーム、で脳トレ APK Download for Android
-
Damian Lewis To Star In Adaptation Of Matt Haig s Modern Vampire Title The Radleys AFM Afm Cornerstone Films
-
This is the one thing that makes your partner more likely to be unfaithful
-
iPhone 4S Hardware Ports and Buttons Explained
-
Why Clubhouse Alternatives Could Mean More Audio Choices
-
How to Transfer Photos From iPhone to iPhone
-
Osrs Iron Ore Ge
-
How to Get the Most Out of Probiotic Supplements Everyday Health
-
Superhydration How Much Water Is Too Much Cedars Sinai
-
John McCarthy says Nate Diaz could have walked away with UFC 279 show money after Khamzat Chimaev missed weight
-
Harry Potter Wizards Unite Combat explained How to battle find Oddities and use Strategic Spells
-
9 of the best online games for long distance friends and family
-
People think this 3 99 Superdrug perfume is the perfect dupe for Thierry Mugler Alien YOU Magazine
-
Zula maximus kodu gir
-
Android uygulama içi satın alma kapatma
-
Social empires soul mixer
-
Inşaatçılar çarşısı
-
Beneficios de la quinoa para la salud
-
About corporate actions
-
Calificaciones en los hogares de ancianos
-
Dixie State rebounds after 27 game streak ends
-
My Hero Academia Who are the members of the Big Three?
-
IND vs ENG 2022 Sanjay Manjrekar on Virat Kohli failing again
-
Battlefield V Into The Jungle Trailer Highlights New Multiplayer Map
-
5 Reasons The Series X Is the Best Designed Xbox System Yet 5 Reasons It Isn t
-
Animal Crossing What Does The Title Mean?
-
Gangsters Fans Go Wild as Nate Diaz Gets Spotted Alongside Ronda Rousey s WWE Rival at UFC 281