The print industry might still be eight times bigger than the video game industry, but the world premier of Nintendo’s newest console may have just changed the game.
In a short teaser video released last week, Nintendo wowed millions of viewers with a look at their next console: the Nintendo Switch. In addition to providing a quality gaming experience at home, the new system also allows players to take their gaming out of the house and on the road.
At home, the Nintendo Switch rests in a dock that connects the system to a television. However, by simply lifting the system out of its dock, it will transition into a portable mode that lets you take your game just about anywhere you want to.
The system also comes with two controllers that can either be used separately from the console for a more Wii-like experience, or attached to the sides of the portable system for a handheld game.
The 127-year-old company has managed to amaze audiences, but the next six months could determine what the future will really be like for the gaming mogul.
Games like Pokemon Go, a fortunate cover over the quiet failure of the Wii U, have brought in surprising amounts of revenue for the company. However, they also raise the question of whether or not Nintendo will abandon traditional console development for smartphone games in the future.
“Nintendo is a very proud, very old, very conservative Japanese company,” said Serkan Toto, CEO of Japanese consultancy Kantan Games.
Toto explained that change will most likely come slow to the company, but that the Nintendo Switch will be a step in the right direction.
While consumers cheered the Nintendo switch announcement, investors weren’t as impressed.
Despite a 6.6% drop in Nintendo shares, the Nintendo Switch reveal is one of the biggest moments the company has had in recent years.
With the Nintendo Classic Mini NES release just a few weeks away, the company has successfully built hype for both of its newest releases.
However, the company hasn’t yet released a price for the Nintendo Switch. A few companies have placed estimates at approximately $300, but were quickly shot down, as no concrete information has been provided from the company yet.
Still, gamers around the world have expressed excitement about the forthcoming console.
“Nintendo Switch allows gamers the freedom to play however they like,” said Reggie Fils-Aime, President and COO, Nintendo of America. “It gives game developers new abilities to bring their creative visions to life by opening up the concept of gaming without boundaries.”