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[jholmes]

OP, bail on this thread while you still can. A lot of Switch True Believers trying to sell you one, completely ignoring what you said you're looking for.

 

[Galang]

Don't listen to anyone saying NES or SNES Classic. Like why? Only a handful of those games have aged amazingly and it's definitely not a better experience than a Wii U or Switch aside from nostalgia. I'd say a Wii/Wii U is a great cheap start and then you can delve into VC if you need more.

 

[WrenchNinja]

Great games you missed out on that you'll have a chance to play on 3DS along with DS titles you missed out on too

3DS

Xenoblade Chronicles (New 3DS exclusive)
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask
The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds
Super Mario 3D Land
Metroid: Samus Returns
Pokémon X/Y
Pokémon OmegaRuby/AlphaSapphire
Pokémon Sun/Moon/
Pokémon Ultra Sun/UltraMoon
Fire Emblem Awakening
Fire Emblem Fates - Birthright/Conquest
Fire Emblem Echoes - Shadows of Valentia
Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney Trilogy
Phoenix Wright Dual Destinies
Phoenix Wright Spirit of Justice
Bravely Default
Bravely Second
Kirby Triple Deluxe
Kirby Planet Robobot
Kid Icarus Uprising
Donkey Kong Country Returns
Mario & Luigi Dream Team
Mario & Luigi Paper Jam
Mario & Luigi Super Star Saga plus Bowsers Minions

Virtual Console Games

Super Mario Bros. 1/2/3
Super Mario World (New 3DS)
Super Metroid (New 3DS)
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (New 3DS)
Earthbound (New 3DS)
Pokémon Red/Blue/Yellow
Pokémon Gold/Silver

DS

The Legend of Zelda Phantom Hourglass
The Legend of Zelda Spirit Tracks
Pokémon Platinum
Pokémon HeartGold/SoulSilver
Pokémon Black/White
Pokémon Black 2/White 2
Chrono Trigger DS
Ghost Trick
The World Ends With You
Mega Man Zero Collection
Super Mario 64 DS
Castlevania Dawn of Sorrow
Castlevania Portrait of Ruin
Castlevania Order of Ecclesia
Mario & Luigi: Partner's In Time
Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story

Man I could go on, the library for these two platforms is insane. DS titles aren't region locked too.

 

[Mista Koo]

Switch is more of a future investment and playing things people are currently playing. I'd say go for the 3DS since it's a solid system and is backward compatible with the DS which is arguably the Nintendo system with the best games library since the SNES.

Also I suspect/hope some of the best Wii and Wii U games will make an appearance on the Switch in the future.

 

[OrbitalBeard]

Don't listen to anyone saying NES or SNES Classic. Like why? Only a handful of those games have aged amazingly and it's definitely not a better experience than a Wii U or Switch aside from nostalgia. I'd say a Wii/Wii U is a great cheap start and then you can delve into VC if you need more.

This isn't true at all regarding the SNES Classic.

The best option is still Switch + SNES Classic. Some of the best of Nintendo's past, present, and future. And if there's a desire for even more, grab a 2DS XL.

 

[m00h]

3DS now, and Switch in a year.

Where did you found a new 3DS for 129,- EUR?

 

[FairFriend]

Where did you found a new 3DS for 129,- EUR?

A used new 3DS (yeah lol) can be found at gamestop for 129 euros (in Italy, black edition only I think).

So, I know that many people have been suggesting Switch, but unfortunately the price is a little bit too steep for my pockets. So I think I'm gonna get either a WiiU or a 3DS, so I'd have a few questions about these systems if you don't mind.

WiiU

1) The 8GB version is much cheaper than the 32GB so I was wondering, do physical games install big files on the HD, like some PS3 games do? If so, can I swap the original HD with a standard laptop one?

2) A part from the HD capacity, the lack of the bundled title and the case color, is there any other difference that I should know of between the 2 skus?

3) I know that you can mod the WiiU to play GameCube titles. Should I look for a unit with a particular firmware?

3DS

1) Simply put, what model should I buy? I was thinking about the new 3DS, kinda curious about trying out the 3D effect. I can find the new 2DS at the same price, the advantage would be not having to buy the charger, plus the new 2DS would be new while the new 3DS preowned. A part from any consideration regarding the 3D effect, which one is the best unit in your opinion?

 

[TwistedFreeze]

A used new 3DS (yeah lol) can be found at gamestop for 129 euros (in Italy, black edition only I think).

So, I know that many people have been suggesting Switch, but unfortunately the price is a little bit too steep for my pockets. So I think I'm gonna get either a WiiU or a 3DS, so I'd have a few questions about these systems if you don't mind.

WiiU

1) The 8GB version is much cheaper than the 32GB so I was wondering, do physical games install big files on the HD, like some PS3 games do? If so, can I swap the original HD with a standard laptop one?

2) A part from the HD capacity, the lack of the bundled title and the case color, is there any other difference that I should know of between the 2 skus?

3) I know that you can mod the WiiU to play GameCube titles. Should I look for a unit with a particular firmware?

3DS

1) Simply put, what model should I buy? I was thinking about the new 3DS, kinda curious about trying out the 3D effect. I can find the new 2DS at the same price, the advantage would be not having to buy the charger, plus the new 2DS would be new while the new 3DS preowned. A part from any consideration regarding the 3D effect, which one is the best unit in your opinion?

Personally, I love the 3D effect on the New 3DS but I know that's not something everyone likes. If the idea of glassesless 3D doesn't sound appealing to you, go for a New 2DS XL. Seriously, you get both 3DS and DS games, alongside the few New 3DS exclusives, which are mainly ports and SNES games. No better Nintendo system as your first

As for the Wii U, it doesn't use a hard drive, it uses flash memory, so you can't replace it. If you want to use a hard drive on it, your best best is getting a y cable and then using whatever hard drive you have lying around. The only game I own that needed to have some files installed was BOTW, which was a few GBs, so that might be something to consider. Any other physical game did not need to be installed. It should also be easily moddable, regardless of firmware, seeing as Nintendo more or less stopped caring about its existence last year. Would totally recommend as it would allow you access to most Nintendo system libraries, such as the Wii, GC, etc

 

[Fumpster]

Get a 3DS, dig into the huge list of games you haven't played like Ace Attorney, Zeldas, Kirby, Mario & Luigi, etc. There's so much there.

That said, the Switch is an appealing option too. Odyssey is out soon and I bet you'll quickly discover the advantages of buying your indie games on Switch instead of PC.

Edit: Just saw your post. Get a New 3DS, play everything with the 3D always on. I feel like it adds a lot of believability to the games.

 

[Soapbox Killer]

I would say Wii U but even now they aren't as cheap as I would like. Pound for pound still the best, current Nintendo library around...but in 6months Switch might take that crown.

 

[AerialAir]

Switch would be the best out of all three for you. If you don't want to spend that kind of dosh, I think the New 2DS XL or 3DS would suit you better.

Switch if you can afford it.
If not, maybe get a New 2DS.

Switch is probably the safer bet. Eventually the Virtual Console will come out so you'll have access to some older games, but you'll be in the loop for all their newer stuff too. The Switch is already having an amazing first year.

New 2DS if you just want to dive deep in their catalog. The 3DS and DS libraries are hugely expansive with quality games for you to lose yourself in.

Pretty much, this, it's kind of unanimous, if you have some money to spend and don't mind waiting one or two years for it's library to be strong enough, get a Switch, if you don't want to spend too much money, you can get a New 2DS XL, and pay little for both the console and games, still having a fantastic Nintendo experience with all the exclusives and Nintendo IPs out there, since it's library is already mature and rich in diversity.

 

[Pila]

A used new 3DS (yeah lol) can be found at gamestop for 129 euros (in Italy, black edition only I think).

So, I know that many people have been suggesting Switch, but unfortunately the price is a little bit too steep for my pockets. So I think I'm gonna get either a WiiU or a 3DS, so I'd have a few questions about these systems if you don't mind.

WiiU

1) The 8GB version is much cheaper than the 32GB so I was wondering, do physical games install big files on the HD, like some PS3 games do? If so, can I swap the original HD with a standard laptop one?

2) A part from the HD capacity, the lack of the bundled title and the case color, is there any other difference that I should know of between the 2 skus?

3) I know that you can mod the WiiU to play GameCube titles. Should I look for a unit with a particular firmware?

3DS

1) Simply put, what model should I buy? I was thinking about the new 3DS, kinda curious about trying out the 3D effect. I can find the new 2DS at the same price, the advantage would be not having to buy the charger, plus the new 2DS would be new while the new 3DS preowned. A part from any consideration regarding the 3D effect, which one is the best unit in your opinion?

Get the black one. It has a handy stand/charger for the gamepad and white sticks may turn yellow. (talking about the Wii U here)

Divertiti!

 

[Niceguydan8]

I think there is a lot of value in the 3DS, but I really can't stand that screen anymore, so I'd go for a Switch.

That being said, you really can't go wrong with a 3DS in terms of library. It's amazing.

 

[OnionPowder]

I bought a Wii U at launch and I still own one.

Honestly I would say skip it. The console itself is so bad that it made it a slog to play through any of the great games. Switch has rectified that.

For what you're looking for, you should go ahead and get a 3DS or better a New 2DS XL. It has a lot of great games you've missed out on and it's a lot cheaper. Obviously the Switch is amazing and has some killer games, but if you've missed out on almost all of Nintendo products then the 3DS is probably the best place for you to start.

 

[sixteen-bit]

WiiU GOAT Nintendo platform.

 

[borghe]

there's a shitton of value in the 3DS.. but the Switch is just at the start of what should be a really great console life. if you like the thought of a huge backlog of dozens of truly classic games, grab 3DS. If you want to play the newest and funnest games coming out (which are or eventually will be classics), grab Switch.

Also should be mentioned that there is already a huge potential backlog with Switch. I don't remember a console having this incredible of a first year for software...... ever?

 

[Hoshigumi]

There are a lot of quality titles on what you've missed but I can't recommend a Switch enough.

Play the situation out like World of Warcraft.

Make Switch your main & 3ds your alt or something.

 

[Tambini]

The 3DS has an absolutely incredible library with DS compatibility.

You can play like 15 pokemon games, all the 2d zeldas and ocarina and majora's mask. The Mario RPGs, Animal Crossing, the castlevania games, phoenix wright, Mario Kart, it has a virtual console with nes/snes, I could go on and on

 

[Weebos]

Hard to go wrong with the 3DS. Having access to the DS's back library is excellent. You also have a ton of different models and prices to choose from.

The Switch would be a forward facing move. It is hard to know how the system will pan out in the long term, but it has had a great start.

I would not get the Wii U. You do get access to the Wii's back library, but I would sooner pick up a 3DS or Switch than the Wii U.

 

[Lumination]

I know people will be pushing for the Switch (I love mine), but I would have to say 3ds. As long as you don't mind the dated graphics, it opens up all of the 3ds gems + OG ds gems as well. You could probably spend the next 5 years playing the 3ds games that scored 80+ on metacritic.

I know you were interested in Nintendo games, but there are so many quality 3ds exclusives that span all genres like FF Theatrhythm, Ace Attorney, Fire Emblem, and Bravely Default.

 

[exfatal]

As much as I'm loving switch it'll still be around after u try out the 3ds. So many good games on the thing would be a shame to skip out on them. Also switch should have better catalog of older games to try once u get to it.

 

[Feel the Swift]

Switch since most other games you missed out pre-3DS or Wii U will be on Virtual Console eventually.

 

[Amory]

Wii U.

Great library on its own, plus itll play wii games too

Switch is great, but I'd wait for the library to build a bit more

 

[Adam_Roman]

Switch or a refurbished 2DS. You can get 2DSes for like $50 now.

 

[Boss X]

Rent or borrow a switch

 

[iswasdoes]

Get a switch and CEMU

 

[UpDownLeftRight]

I'd buy switch because the Wii-U is one of the worst systems I've had the displeasure of owning. Sure the U has a better pick of games but just using it is a damn bane.

Wanna play a game without your gamepad when it's dead? Nah fuck you, You need it to navigate the shitty OS. Wanna use the system in any way at all? Get comfy as loading anything can be a massive chore.

I played Zelda on both and it's literally twice as much fun on the Switch because the system just works how you expect it to with no bullshit in between.

 

[The Wart]

If a) you really are more interested in diving into the backlog than playing the latest and greatest, and b) you aren't interested in playing indie games on the go, then it doesn't really make sense to get a Switch. Maybe that will change if/when they add some kind of Virtual Console service, but who knows when that will be.

The 3DS has access to the biggest and broadest library. However, Wii U lets you play some all-time classics -- Metroid Prime Trilogy, Mario Galaxy 1+2... well, gosh it would honestly be worth it just for those if you never played them.

 

[wanders]

Switch

+Cheap DS Lite and cheap Wi

 

[Neoxon]

Definitely the Switch

 

[C.Mongler]

Given your situation, I would say a Wii U if you can get one for cheap and mod it, or just go to a thrift store/pawn shop and grab a good ole' Wii. The Wii gives you massive access to Nintendo's libraries. On one system you can play almost all the hits from NES, SNES, N64, you can play Gamecube games, and there's plenty of gems on the Wii itself too. A modded Wii U will give you all that of course (the mod is needed for GC obviously), but also let you play some of the great Wii U games, and also give you access to GBA and DS virtual consoles.

A new 3DS also isn't a bad choice, but obviously limited to only 3DS, DS, SNES, NES, and GB games (modding opens up your options to GBA as well).

So far the Switch has been great, but if your goal is to catch up on quintessential Nintendo, it's not really the system for that yet. You'll be hip to the newer stuff of course, but it's yet to be seen what, if there even are any, Nintendo's plans for the Virtual Console service in the future are. If you're tempted on the Switch, I would say maybe grab a Wii set for like 40 bucks and play the hits and grab a Switch sometime after the holidays.

 

[hardcastlemccormick]

I would vote for the 3DS here. It’s got a huge and wonderful library.

 

[Lothars]

I would say a New 3DS, it will give you both the 3DS and DS libaries than in a year or two pick up a Switch if you want. I wouldn't recommend a switch right now, it has an good starting library but there's not guarantee that nintendo can keep up the consistent releases when they haven't been able to do that since the snes and every other systems has had huge lulls between releases. If they do and I am wrong than great but I would take a wait and see approach.

 

[emb]

3DS has an incredible lineup of games, right now.

Switch has a bigger future, and buying it would let you be part of the zeitgeist for years. Game releases as events add a special something that is hard to get if you're going back and playing things on your own.

I'd recommend getting the Switch while it's in its heyday, then picking up a 3DS if you find yourself craving more.

 

[momshotdad]

Switch>>New 2DS XL>>SNES Classic

They're all fantastic, but when it comes to playing stuff over the next 2-3 years, I think this is the order. Plus you can get a lot of the games on the SNES classic on the New 2DS Virtual Console for like $8 or less each.

 

[LegendofLex]

So GAF, which one should I get? What are the games that would best give me a feeling of what I have been missing all these years?

Without knowing anything about your taste in games on other platforms, it's really, really difficult to answer this.

You said you played Super Mario 64. Wii U would give you access to three 3D Mario titles (Galaxy, Galaxy 2, and 3D World), plus three 3D Zelda titles (Wind Waker, Twilight Princess, and Breath of the Wild), Smash Bros., Mario Kart 8 (albeit without a good battle mode), Splatoon, all the console Metroid Prime games (Prime Trilogy is downloadable on Wii U), and a bunch of other benchmark Nintendo titles and Wii U exclusives. You could also play other stuff from Nintendo's back catalog via Virtual Console and Wii back compatibility.

Meanwhile, Switch would give you a new 3D Mario game that's more akin to 64 (Odyssey), plus Breath of the Wild, Mario Kart 8, Splatoon 2, and other unique Switch titles like Mario + Rabbids. Switch will probably get Virtual Console/remastered ports of most of Nintendo's big legacy titles (at least the ones from GBA and older platforms) eventually, too. I wouldn't be surprised if a large chunk of the games on Wii U eventually make their way over to Switch.

You also said you played Pokemon, though, and 3DS would give you access to a full four generations of Pokemon games, plus remakes of Gold/Silver and Ruby/Sapphire. It'd also give you a new side-scrolling Metroid, two 3D Zelda games and two 2D Zelda games, decent but not great Mario games, and a bunch of third-party JRPG exclusives.

 

[FairFriend]

I'm just coming back from Gamespot. Bought a WiiU and a few games. I'll update with pics when I get home.

 

[FairFriend]

Here

150 euros total.