Is releasing the 3DS first smart?? Heres why its ingenious

[DrizzyDrew]

We finally have a release window! The 3DS game is coming out first. Is this a smart move? I think it is an ingenious move. What do you think? Will you still get both?

 

[Oracle_Summon]

I say it is. The 3DS will allow us to get a feel for the game and let us see who got in. The Wii U version will be the superior version, concerning HD graphics and possible gameplay modes like Adventure and what not. Plus, the Wii U version will almost certainly get a mode unique to it like the 3DS' Smash Run.

 

[Substitute]

You would think that any hyped up Smash fan who owns a 3DS would buy the 3DS version but I think a lot of people are thrown off by the crap control scheme for fighters.

 

[ChibiIceClimberz]

I'd say it's generally a good move for gamers. The 3DS version would act as a demo, and ultimately the Wii U version would be the final game. I hope there are a lot of features that will differentiate the two. Maybe a NFC feature would make it more appealing, especially since it helped a ton with Skylanders and Disney Infinity.

Sales-wise, I'm sort of convinced that it's good, but it could still be bad. The 3DS is doing all right with one game per month this year, and it could use some boost with Smash 4. However, we have yet to see how the Wii U version fares, especially in Japan where hardware and software aren't selling well at all, e.g., Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze.

 

[BaPr]

Can't really vote on either of the two options. It seems like a big risk in sales if they do that, but it could still pay off. If you think about it, Sakurai knows that there are many competitive smash players (I'm not just talking about the U.S.), so most of them would prefer the Wii U. If you give them the 3DS version, a lot of them will end up buying that one also. This could be a way to get some more money who planned on getting the console only. Besides, I'm pretty sure that he is going to show what the Wii U can do after the 3DS version comes out, since the recent direct we had focused more on the 3DS.

 

[Eight Melodies]

The Wii U version will definitely have a lot more content than the 3DS and they will likely emphasize that greatly after the 3DS version's release.

 

[Ryuutakeshi]

Here's why it is a good idea. The Wii U will always be the system to play in tournaments due to larger screens and there being no need for everyone to have the console on them to compete. Graphics will be better, smoother, and superior in every way. Online connections will run better due to the abily to run a wired connection.

But Nintendo wants to sell this game on the 3DS too. It could effectively double their profits on the game and even if the wii u doesn't sell as many copies they still have a great chance of turning smash into a financial success. Selling them 6 months apart though and selling the "inferior" version first gives more incentive to pick up the wii u version when it comes out. More affordable, superior product, and Nintendo doubles their profits. Everyone wins. Oh, and Nintendo may sell a lot of wii u's, so that's a bonus,

 

[LOGIA666]

It's a brilliant move. Gives the team longer to polish up the console version, and convinces people who were only going to buy the console to get the handheld version out of impatience. As I said, brilliant.

 

[GTZ]

Nintendo has something up their sleeves. I would've honestly preferred a bigger roster for the Wii U version, but oh well.

 

[lami]

Nintendo has something up their sleeves. I would've honestly preferred a bigger roster for the Wii U version, but oh well.

Why? Neither version is holding the other back. The roster size is just what Sakurai wants, regardless of any limitations.

 

[Mario & Sonic Guy]

I don't think Sakurai is all too concerned about the Wii U's profit problems, especially since he wants the Wii U version of Smash 4 to be as good as it can be.

 

[Yikarur]

it about doubles their profit for sure.
A LOT of people are getting the 3DS Version now who didn't want the version before.
This is a smart move, economical and game wise.
We can expect a lot of bug fixes and optimizations for the WiiU Version.

 

[Kerreb17]

It may be smart for the company, but I'm a little bit concerned for players like myself who can't really buy/afford a Wii U.

Do I want Nintendo to sell more copies of the Wii U? Of course! I still don't want to (more like I can't) buy one because of my living situation, but I would if I could. The 3DS hardware obviously isn't as strong as the Wii U, so it makes sense that we'd get a weakened version for the 3DS.

There are two problems, then. The first is that those 3DS players who only have a 3DS would be left behind as everyone else moves to Wii U. Sure, there might still be a competitive scene on the 3DS, but I can almost guarantee that it would shrink dramatically.

The second problem is the control switch that a number of players would have to make from the 3DS to the Wii U. Seeing how hard it is from some folks I know in my locals to switch from Gamecube controller to literally anything else is troubling to me.

In order to solve both problems, I would prefer that the Wii U version let you use your 3DS as a controller if you wanted to, or they had a controller set up similarly to the 3DS version, with a circle pad (wishful thinking, I know). Really, all we need is any sort of Wii U-3DS interfacing. Those with 3DS copies would be able to use the 3DS as a controller to control their characters, and then also be able to play online with others when they're not near a Wii U. Just my two cents though.

Economically, this is a solid move for Nintendo. Smash games always seem to pull in a lot of dosh, so we'll see if it's enough to keep the Wii U afloat.

 

[Masterphailure]

It seems like a smart move on Nintendo's part. Practically everyone has a 3DS, so it'll make a huge profit. The holiday season makes sense to bring back the Wii U from the dead.

 

[BaPr]

In order to solve both problems, I would prefer that the Wii U version let you use your 3DS as a controller if you wanted to, or they had a controller set up similarly to the 3DS version, with a circle pad (wishful thinking, I know). Really, all we need is any sort of Wii U-3DS interfacing. Those with 3DS copies would be able to use the 3DS as a controller to control their characters, and then also be able to play online with others when they're not near a Wii U. Just my two cents though.

That's something I want more than anything right now. I believe Sakurai has stated that the 3DS and Wii U will some how connect in the direct video (really hoping he doesn't mean just the transferring of custom characters from the 3DS to the Wii U). Sakurai has done so many things in this smash that I wanted but I thought wouldn't even have a chance to happen, so I hope he can just do this one too.

 

[Pazzo.]

I wrote about this in the WiR. Here's what I said:

With the 3DS or ‘lesser’ version coming first, many Smash fans will want to buy that one in order to experience the new game, and stay updated with what other discussion. At the same time though, many of the same players will buy the Wii U version, as they originally planned. This almost insures better sales for the 3DS, a system with a higher install base than the Wii U.

This goes beyond mere speculation, anyone reading online reactions may draw the same conclusions. Here are a few from our very own Smashboards.

I did NOT want to buy the 3DS version

, but now I probably will just because (the 3DS version will come first)
Click to expand...

MechaWave

It tempts me to buy both versions, I know how I am with waiting for releases, and with 3DS being revealed first in the Summer, I'll have to get it. But I really prefer the Wii U version better, so I'll probably get both.
Click to expand...

VictoryIsMudkipz

I had originally intended to ignore the 3DS version, but given the recent developments and knowing the fact that it will be released before the Wii U version, I might buy it just to get a leg up on the competition and get a feel for what the movesets are like for characters. That is assuming Sakurai doesn't make any development or balance changes to the cast in between game releases.
Click to expand...

Ulevo

So if you plan on getting the Wii U version, the 3DS version, or both, remember that there is no reason to get upset. It is currently unknown if there will be a Global release or if a particular region will get the game first.

 

[SSBBDaisy]

I'm definitely getting both. One I can get the best experience out of (Wii U) and one I can take with me to work. (3DS)

 

[UltimateXsniper]

Guess I'm the only one who originally planned to get the 3DS version first.

 

[Guybrush20X6]

BTW, here's a coutndown clock to the game's latest possible release in the timeframe.

click here

 

[TheMagicalKuja]

It IS smart...

...in the "best of bad moves" kind of way.

Wii U is really in deep s*** and really needed the sales, but because it's coming in Winter, off the heels of a 3DS version already out, it's only winning sales of diehards who had already planned it. Both casuals who either don't have either or already have a 3DS already don't care, and the former will likely be distracted by machismo laden advertisement of the XBone(and the PS4) to care. But it seemed that Wii U version is still underway development wise, and Nintendo doesn't really have a choice if it wants to save the sales for the 3DS version. Really, the only way to salvage it is to stuff a lot of modes in the Wii U version that the 3DS doesn't have.

 

[KRBAY]

If the 3DS version will only have Versus, Local Download, Online Play, and Smash Run, then we'll have enough content to hype for the Wii U version.

 

[Goten21]

I don't think it's a good move. The Wii U needs the exposure, and being the first console to get the game would be a huge adventage.
People were gonna go for the 3DS anyway, thanks to it's portability, so releasing it sooner will only increase the group of players. Unless, of course, that is what the creator is trying to do, so that the online gaming scene can improve. If this is the case, then I obviously think it's ingenious

If the 3DS version will only have Versus, Local Download, Online Play, and Smash Run, then we'll have enough content to hype for the Wii U version.

I thought stage creation was confirmed? Anyway, I don't know what you really wanna get more out of a smash game, that can make the difference.

 

[Thor]

Given that many people predict 3DS won't be competitive, this release date separation gives the 3DS anywhere from like 3 (late summer, early winter) to 9 months (Early summer, late winter) to try to develop a competitive scene without Wii U interference (i.e. competitive Smash 4 can only occur on the 3DS for that period of time). If a scene develops, competitive players who otherwise might not play the 3DS version might pick it up, which would increase sales. Given that Sakurai doesn't seem to like the competitive scene, it seems unlikely, but since that Sakurai is a businessman, making both 3DS and Wii U versions have a competitive scene (or giving the 3DS the chance to develop one) might be the perfect way to cause competitive players to get 3DS/Smash 4 3DS and thus boost sales. He also can state it was a development thing, not a competitive thing, so no one can ever prove he actually acknowledged the competitive scene if he doesn't want to [though this conspiracy theory would now be out there].

And even if the Wii U causes the 3DS scene to die off (which would sadden me, since I have a 3DS but don't have Wii U (want one)), it still managed to increase 3DS/Smash 4 3DS sales for those few months, which would make it a smart choice in the long run (I will state I think the odds of it lowering Wii U Smash 4 sales are extraordinarily low, unless Smash 4 on the 3DS is terrible [which also seems unlikely], though if this occurs, it would be a bad business choice).

 

[iLLuMinati_EYE]

i don't own a 3ds atm but are digital releases of games on the same day of physical game release?

 

[BaPr]

Not for all games, but I believe Sakurai is doing that for this game.

 

[Morbi]

I can't believe the ignorance of the users on this forum; I am going to try to be constructive (as opposed to pretentious). There is no reason to call anyone incompetent, something I initially thought about doing. However, I realize that many are simply excited for the game. Many members are merely children, they don't understand business.

1. The game is released at 3DS retail price; this is a detriment to the total gross income as the retail of the 3DS version is only $40. This is a 33% percent decrease in potential profit, if we were to hypothetically assume that the same number of individuals would have purchased the game on the Wii U version. So the first negative aspect of releasing the title during the second quarter whilst retaining the Wii U version for quarter four is an overt decreased potential profit.

Note: The 3DS was always going to make much more money. This only affirms that notion.

2. The game is the same game. Despite Sora Ltd.'s efforts to convince consumers that the two titles are literally different games, both are Smash 4. The rosters, the most important aspect of any fighting game, are exactly the same. What does this do to hurt the Wii U version? Everything about the game is already known and experienced aside from whatever exclusive modes they offer for the Wii U version. Most consumers are not dedicated enough to purchase the same title twice.

3. Smash 4 was Nintendo's definitive console-seller. It is no secret that the Wii U sales are horrendous, if I recall correctly, the Xbox One outsold it within the first month. You cannot sell a console-seller on a different console 4-6 months earlier. That is why Titanfall didn't release the Xbox 360 version until... you guessed it... after, after they sold their consoles. Again, this is touching on the second point once more, most consumers are not going to purchase the same game that they have already experienced. Why would you purchase a console for a game that you already own (dat 1080p r glrious)?

4. Smash is a multi-player title. Releasing the game on a console designed to be an individual's system is counter-intuitive. Of course there is an online mode, but if you want to play with friends, they are required to purchase their own 3DS and copy of the game. This isn't as overt in a modern era, but there are still a lot of players that enjoy playing with their friends in real life. That being said, most fans of Smash probably already own a 3DS, that isn't entirely relevant though. The idea is that you can always pick up and play Smash with your buddies, they don't have to be a Nintendo fan or a fighting game player to enjoy the game with you.

5. The 3DS version is probably incomplete. Releasing 4-6 months ahead of schedule is a telltale sign that the game isn't necessarily finished yet. It certainly isn't going to be as polished as the Wii U version. Only EXTREME development complications would hinder the Wii U version over the 3DS version for that long. I doubt something so extreme would happen without resulting in a delay. The 3DS version is probably much easier to develop, there is no doubt, but 4-6 months easier? I am positive that we are going to get an incomplete game.

"But why Morbid? Why would they release the game early, you are just cynical, the game is fine and done. The Wii U version takes longer to develop." Here is why it is smart to release the 3DS version before the Wii U version. It seems inherently contradictory that I would support the other side of the argument, but there is a good reason. The 3DS title, the console that people ACTUALLY own is the more ideal console to launch a blockbuster title. The reason is obvious, most are not keen on purchasing a console for one game they like. I think we can all agree that Smash 4 is an exception to the rule. However, would you buy a console for Smash during the holiday season, the most competitive market? Probably, you are on a Smash forum after all. But most analysts probably figure that Smash isn't going to perform well against the other established consoles and triple a titles. So why not expand your potential audience, release the game early (during one of the least competitive seasons) and state that it is no lesser than the Wii U version? Give it an exclusive game-mode! So they are just ensuring that they get the initial sales to make a profit. It is actually really smart, but it attenuates the value of the Wii U version. Think about it, if you have a 3DS, and the game, marketed as an equal, is only $40 dollars (compared to the $60 on a console you have yet to own)... which version are you going to buy?

6. Smash is a home-console game. It always has been, I would state that it always will be, but clearly that would be fallacious. The game is a fighting game, I don't think I need to point out the obvious, but the 3DS is hardly a fighting game console. The controls aren't necessarily built for optimal performance. That being said, I suppose most of Nintendo's controllers weren't either. So the point is moot.

7. The lack of faith in the Wii U version. It isn't ideal to show consumers that you have no faith in your console. It is as simple as that, people are not entirely blind. Most will, once the game launches and the holiday titles are announced, realize that Nintendo did this to secure a consumer base. There is nothing inherently wrong about that. It just isn't favorable to the people that dropped a couple hundred on that POS console.

tl;dr: The 3DS version attenuates the value of the Wii U version, this is a detriment to the sales of Wii U consoles, this is obviously negative for Nintendo. However, the game will obviously perform exceptionally well on the 3DS, so in that regard, releasing it on the 3DS first is a great move.

 

[ChibiIceClimberz]

I can't believe the ignorance of the users on this forum; I am going to try to be constructive (as opposed to pretentious). There is no reason to call anyone incompetent, something I initially thought about doing. However, I realize that many are simply excited for the game. Many members are merely children, they don't understand business.

1. The game is released at 3DS retail price; this is a detriment to the total gross income as the retail of the 3DS version is only $40. This is a 33% percent decrease in potential profit, if we were to hypothetically assume that the same number of individuals would have purchased the game on the Wii U version. So the first negative aspect of releasing the title during the second quarter whilst retaining the Wii U version for quarter four is an overt decreased potential profit.

Note: The 3DS was always going to make much more money. This only affirms that notion.

2. The game is the same game. Despite Sora Ltd.'s efforts to convince consumers that the two titles are literally different games, both are Smash 4. The rosters, the most important aspect of any fighting game, are exactly the same. What does this do to hurt the Wii U version? Everything about the game is already known and experienced aside from whatever exclusive modes they offer for the Wii U version. Most consumers are not dedicated enough to purchase the same title twice.

3. Smash 4 was Nintendo's definitive console-seller. It is no secret that the Wii U sales are horrendous, if I recall correctly, the Xbox One outsold it within the first month. You cannot sell a console-seller on a different console 4-6 months earlier. That is why Titanfall didn't release the Xbox 360 version until... you guessed it... after, after they sold their consoles. Again, this is touching on the second point once more, most consumers are not going to purchase the same game that they have already experienced. Why would you purchase a console for a game that you already own (dat 1080p r glrious)?

4. Smash is a multi-player title. Releasing the game on a console designed to be an individual's system is counter-intuitive. Of course there is an online mode, but if you want to play with friends, they are required to purchase their own 3DS and copy of the game. This isn't as overt in a modern era, but there are still a lot of players that enjoy playing with their friends in real life. That being said, most fans of Smash probably already own a 3DS, that isn't entirely relevant though. The idea is that you can always pick up and play Smash with your buddies, they don't have to be a Nintendo fan or a fighting game player to enjoy the game with you.

5. The 3DS version is probably incomplete. Releasing 4-6 months ahead of schedule is a telltale sign that the game isn't necessarily finished yet. It certainly isn't going to be as polished as the Wii U version. Only EXTREME development complications would hinder the Wii U version over the 3DS version for that long. I doubt something so extreme would happen without resulting in a delay. The 3DS version is probably much easier to develop, there is no doubt, but 4-6 months easier? I am positive that we are going to get an incomplete game.

"But why Morbid? Why would they release the game early, you are just cynical, the game is fine and done. The Wii U version takes longer to develop." Here is why it is smart to release the 3DS version before the Wii U version. It seems inherently contradictory that I would support the other side of the argument, but there is a good reason. The 3DS title, the console that people ACTUALLY own is the more ideal console to launch a blockbuster title. The reason is obvious, most are not keen on purchasing a console for one game they like. I think we can all agree that Smash 4 is an exception to the rule. However, would you buy a console for Smash during the holiday season, the most competitive market? Probably, you are on a Smash forum after all. But most analysts probably figure that Smash isn't going to perform well against the other established consoles and triple a titles. So why not expand your potential audience, release the game early (during one of the least competitive seasons) and state that it is no lesser than the Wii U version? Give it an exclusive game-mode! So they are just ensuring that they get the initial sales to make a profit. It is actually really smart, but it attenuates the value of the Wii U version. Think about it, if you have a 3DS, and the game, marketed as an equal, is only $40 dollars (compared to the $60 on a console you have yet to own)... which version are you going to buy?

6. Smash is a home-console game. It always has been, I would state that it always will be, but clearly that would be fallacious. The game is a fighting game, I don't think I need to point out the obvious, but the 3DS is hardly a fighting game console. The controls aren't necessarily built for optimal performance. That being said, I suppose most of Nintendo's controllers weren't either. So the point is moot.

7. The lack of faith in the Wii U version. It isn't ideal to show consumers that you have no faith in your console. It is as simple as that, people are not entirely blind. Most will, once the game launches and the holiday titles are announced, realize that Nintendo did this to secure a consumer base. There is nothing inherently wrong about that. It just isn't favorable to the people that dropped a couple hundred on that POS console.

tl;dr: The 3DS version attenuates the value of the Wii U version, this is a detriment to the sales of Wii U consoles, this is obviously negative for Nintendo. However, the game will obviously perform exceptionally well on the 3DS, so in that regard, releasing it on the 3DS first is a great move.

This.

Even the 3DS itself has already lowered the value of the Wii U in the beginning. They're literally competing against each other, and it's cannibalizing Wii U sales. Some of the games the Wii U currently has are either too similar or a follow-up of what the 3DS had, which makes the Wii U a less attractive and unique platform for the majority. Take a look at this, for example:

• New Super Mario Bros. 2 versus New Super Mario Bros. U
• Super Mario 3D Land versus Super Mario 3D World
• Mario Kart 7 versus Mario Kart 8
• Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D versus Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
• Yoshi's New Island versus Yarn Yoshi
• Lego City Undercover versus Lego City Undercover: The Chase Begins
  
• Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate
• Sonic Lost World
• Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS versus Super Smash Bros. for Wii U

Us gamers can obviously tell the difference between the two games, but the average person won't even notice it at first glance. They'll just think, "Why will I buy this for $60 and a Wii U when I can just buy this one for $40 and a 3DS?" Hell, some people still think that the Wii U is a Wii, which just makes things even worse.

 

[UltimateXsniper]

This.
They'll just think, "Why will I buy this for $60 and a Wii U when I can just buy this one for $40 and a 3DS?"

I also like to add in that there is a lot more people who own a 3DS than a Wii U so people don't need to buy a new console for the "same" game.

 

[GTZ]

Mario Kart will definitely help us to all see whether or not the Wii U will do okay, which I think it will surprise everyone.

 

[pwnzorz]

As someone getting both versions, yes. There will be some cross features b/w 3ds and WiiU (announced at a later date) and hopefully transferring my customized character movesets etc... and roster unlocks is supported.

People that were gonna get it on WiiU are going to get it on WiiU. Smash, historically, doesn't appear to be a system seller (though it is for me), so I'm indifferent other than the local play would be nice prior to Xmas as I have a big Smash friend who doesn't have a 3ds and only really plays at my or his other friends' house and he'll prob be left out between the 3ds launch and the WiiU launch.

I do hope it helps boost WiiU sales though, it's a great machine.

 

[Gameboi834]

most consumers are not going to purchase the same game that they have already experienced. Why would you purchase a console for a game that you already own (dat 1080p r glrious)?

I would just like to point out all the idiots buying The Last of Us for PS4 after experiencing everything the game had to offer on PS3. It's in the tens of thousands at least.

 

[Morbi]

I would just like to point out all the idiots buying The Last of Us for PS4 after experiencing everything the game had to offer on PS3. It's in the tens of thousands at least.

That is honestly a great point; we will always have idiotic consumers. The box office is an even greater example; every weekend.

 

[Jackson]

I think the only reason for me thinking this is a bad move is my personal selfishness for wanting the Wii U version much more.

 

[Thegamerguy131]

I honestly can't see them releasing it in any other way without it ending badly. This is probably the best way to go.