DataStream said:
I'm having a lot of trouble understanding the point of the controller vs. just integrating control with 3ds.
This seems really odd to me.
If its true that they've found a way for the console to process gameplay and stream video to these controllers, then the controllers themselves don't need the more complex components that something like a 3DS has... which has two screens, its own logic board, a card reader, an SD card reader, a PICA 200 GPU, two ARM processors etc. These controllers would need a chipset capable of syncing with the console, outputting the video they receive and sending back controller input. So in essence, one of these controllers should be a lot cheaper than a 3DS, or indeed - a PSP/NGP, smartphone or tablet. The concept of gameplay transmission to these devices sounds a bit like OnLive meets "Connectivity", only based entirely in the home. And of course, it will play games normally on a HDTV just fine.
Because a powerful console is doing the processing, the visuals on the small screen should be beyond what other devices can do, and I can imagine it serving as a cool multi-purpose gaming and multimedia device as long as you're within range of the console.
In essence, the value proposition becomes - should I buy a high-end portable / iPad 2 - OR - should I buy a Café and get a HD console and powerful household portable for the price of one?
Of course, there will be gameplay benefits to having an extra screen in your hands too. Imagine an FPS game where everyone has their own screen and the HDTV acts as an Arena-Cam or plays highlights. Imagine a quiz game like Buzz where people can select hidden answers. Imagine people gathering around the console for a game of Pictionary or something... or the new generation of connectivity games like Four Swords Adventures, FFCC and Pacman VS. Another good idea someone mentioned was a game where other players play on normal controllers or Wii remotes, and one player uses the tablet controller to set up traps around a level... Nintendo has probably thought of possibilities that we haven't even considered.
I like Sam Kennedy's post, but it's really nice pie in the sky thinking imo... I would love him to be right about some of that but I doubt he will be.