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Nintendo Switch launches March 3rd Popular software titles are coming one after another
On January 13th, Nintendo held a presentation and hands-on event for media and industry representatives at Tokyo Big Sight in Koto Ward for its home console, the Nintendo Switch.
President Tatsumi Kimishima began the presentation stating, "The launch preview video we released last October was viewed by many fans worldwide and received positive feedback." He highlighted that while the console connects to a TV for gameplay, it also features a built-in screen enabling play on the go, emphasizing its versatility. Announcing its simultaneous launch in major markets including Japan, the US, and Europe on March 3rd, with a price of ¥29,980 in Japan, drew gasps from the audience. Pre-orders will begin on January 21st.
The Switch can be played in three modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld. Online multiplayer games are also possible. Nintendo announced that this service would be free until this fall and that, as a general rule, it would not impose region locks based on sales regions. This means game software from any region can be played.
Executive Officer Shinya Takahashi, who led the Switch's development, and other responsible personnel provided detailed explanations. The console inherits the DNA of the company's previous game systems like the "Family Computer," "Game Boy," and "Super Famicom." It also features a new function called "HD Rumble" in the Joy-Con controllers. This allows the controllers to convey various sensations to the player's hands. Software like "1-2-Switch," which utilizes this feature, enables physical games such as "Gunman's Quick Draw" and "Hot Dog Eating Contest."
Notable software announcements include the latest installment in the popular "The Legend of Zelda" series launching alongside the console in March, and the latest "Super Mario" title coming this winter. Additionally, "Splatoon 2" is scheduled for release this summer, with "Dragon Quest" and soccer games also planned. Currently, around 50 companies are developing over 80 games. Executives from software development companies took the stage, expressing their high expectations for the Switch.
Following the presentation, attendees moved to a different venue for a hands-on experience session. The elaborately staged venue featured numerous stations where attendees could try out new titles early, resulting in long lines at each station.
The hands-on event was open to the public on both the 14th and 15th, drawing large crowds of eager gamers who had been waiting for the announcements.
Official website:
https://www.nintendo.co.jp/
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