RUMOUR: Xbox mods?

Hi there, been a while hasn't it? I've been looking for a reason to jump back on here but haven't found the right thing to jump on. I was planning on jumping back with E3 but nothing really grabbed me. Sure Starfield is a thing but so far it's an... well a short vid of a starfield. There was that kiss that got all the attention for the wrong reason (That's going to produce some heat, I sense a follow up). Microsoft announced they bought some studios and stealth announced a new generation. 

So why come back today? Well, something that might actually be big, something that might shake things up a bit.

Windows Central has been shown leaked documents that outline "Xbox community content platform." Now I know that sounds like a bunch of PR approved words stacked together, because it is. This feature does have a more colloquial term (that I totally spoilt in the title CLICKS BE DAMNED) Modding.

Goku In GTA V

According to WC the documents say this would be a platform-wide feature (think achievements, Kinect) that only needs to be enabled by the developer, the devs will have control over parts of the game can be modded or apply any limitations they want. So, all in all, sounds very much like the modding system Bethesda started with Fallout 4 and Skyrim Special Edition, which also... inspired Cities: Skylines and one of those Farm Simulator game's console mods). There does seem to be one difference between this system and the Bethesda system, it appears as Microsoft themselves will be hosting the mod libraries, This should mean we shouldn't have to sign into secondary accounts

When could we see this feature? well the documents say "later this (northern hemisphere) summer"

Abe's Take
And back to the start, why this news story? Microsoft after years of stopping it decided to push for crossplay, we now have crossplay everywhere (well almost everywhere) Microsoft pushing mods as a feature of their platform should give Nintendo and Sony the kick to join in on the fun (not holding my breath on Sony.) Platform-wide modding, like Indie games before it, should cause the "big boys" to share the spotlight and in effect shake things up, even just a little bit.

Rumour: Switch UK price, US Zelda & Mother 3

Well looks like there is more retailer fun regarding Nintendo Switch and Ms Dale is still leaking (rumours, not bodily fluids), Lets hope these retail rumours are unlike yesterdays.

First up we have UK retailer Argos has put an price on the Nintendo Switch, an actual one and not some super place holder like GAME's £999.

Is the price an simple place holder or has Nintendo already passed on details to retailers? It's certainly a fine guide price and we have heard previous rumours that there would be £299.99 bundle. Its worth noting that price is cheaper than a PS4 Pro but more expensive than an Xbox One S (though that appears to be more to do with an Amazon sale)

Next up we have Laura Dale saying she has access to Nintendo Switch's US launch promo materials and it clearly states Breath of the Wild as a launch title. This puts an end to her previous on/off report that Zelda: Breath of the Wild was delayed for Switch.

Contrary to my past report on BOTW release date it is 100% coming at Switch launch in North America in March. Have seen finalised materials.

— Laura Kate Dale (@LaurakBuzz) January 2, 2017

What about UK release? Well some Amazon UK pre-order customers are reporting emails confirming an change of release date from "2017" to "31st March 2017"

The release date for the video game listed below has been changed by the publisher, and we want to provide you with a new delivery estimate based on the new release date:

"The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild"

Estimated arrival date: March 31, 2017

The Japanese magazine CoroCoro has had an upcoming issue leaked and that too confirms a spring release.

Ms Dale also claims that Mother 3 will finally see a western launch as part of the Nintendo Switch's Virtual Console. Now excuse me whilst I roll my eyes. not that I don't believe her but "MOTHER 3 COMING WEST!" has to been the most persistent rumour over the last 5 years or so. Before every Direct, E3 and TV appearance the Mother 3 rumour has appeared. This rumour has, in the past claimed the credibility of several "insiders" such as Ms Emily Rogers.

Mother 3 VC Switch Q2 2017. Will be announced Jan 12 event.

— Laura Kate Dale (@LaurakBuzz) January 2, 2017

Abe's Take
I'm hesitant to believe these, rumours simple because of yesterday's burn but that is mostly because I really wanted those red cases. I also refuse to believe Mother 3 is actually coming to the west until the game actually loads on my TV.

RUMOUR: Nintendo Switch Boxart & Mario Kart Details? FALSE

So we've got about 12 days (depending on timezone) till the Nintendo Switches coming out party and whilst some leakers such as Ms Dale have decided to let Nintendo reveal its big surprises (mostly) but seems Australian retailer EB Games has slipped up.

UPDATE: Well, we feel foolish. it appears the product listing was fake "injected" into the site

Earlier today I was REALLY bored. I made these, and use Webdev tools to put it onto EB Games’ site. pic.twitter.com/wqZkSeGB3U

— Daniel Vuckovic (@VOOK64) January 2, 2017

It's weird that the retailer didn't refute the rumour. So with that everything below is nonsense please feel free to reread it a silly voice.

ORIGINAL: The retailer has seemingly posted (and removed) their Nintendo Switch page and has SEEMINGLY leaked 3 Nintendo Switch launch titles and their box arts.

This reveals some nice details.

First, the Nintendo Switch will have some hybrid themed boxes. The game cases appear to be similar in size to the DS/3DS game cases but with a bold red border that reflects home console game cases (thick border up top with the system branding)

Skyrim is the special edition, the remastered version and not a port of the 360 era version as was previously rumoured. It will be interesting to see what Nintendo's policy towards mods will be. Nintendo's history makes it hard to predict, they are very protective but also is currently on a player creativity high right now. Will we see 'full' mods like Xbox, the limited mods of PS4, or will Nintendo block them entirely?

Legend of Zelda is listed whilst Mario Switch isn't, hopefully, This refutes the rumour of the LoZ:BoTW delay in favour of Mario in a hope to leverage Super Mario Run's launch hype.

Mario Kart 8's Switch port seems to be a rather large expansion as the game case claims. 24 extra tracks, 10 new characters and an "all new" battle mode. we assume this means the classic battle mode from all previous Mario Kart games is making a return.There has been some chatter this is "just the DLC" however the DLC added 16 tracks and 6 characters. Of cause it's possible MK8:S will have the DLC + 8 new tracks and 4 new characters.

Abe's Take

Well if this is true and not some oddly precise mock-up, then I am rather happy and judging from others online are many people. Worryingly though people now seem to expect Smash: Switch to feature a similar level of expansion. We saw something similar back when Smash 4 started getting DLC with players comparing the DLCs in terms of the number of characters. So I repeat what I said then Smash characters are far more complex than Mario Kart'. That being said I expect Smash: Switch to have 2-4 more characters maybe an Inkling and a Sun/Moon starter.

Nintendo Switch Rumour Dump

So something odd happened, Youtube streamer OBE1Plays was 'Intensely' streaming a Splatoon match when it was interrupted by now famous Nintendo Switch leaker Laura Dale.

Suddenly the stream ended and a Nintendo rumour fest began. OBE1Plays claims to have exclusive leaks for his "12 days of Switchmas" and this starts with both confirming that the next Assassin's Creed game will see 'release parity' across X1, PS4 and Nintendo Switch, which would be nice as on the Wii U version of Assassin's Creed III arrived 5 weeks later than is 360/PS3 cousin. The Wii U's gamepad made the poorly built wilderness map a lot easier to get through and reach the actual fun parts of the world. ODE1 also confirms the AC game in question is Egyptian themed, which could mean some Aladdin flashbacks.

@OBE1plays @YouTube I've heard as much on AC release parity, Ubi want day one release. Good luck on your 12 days. Fingers crossed for you.

— Laura Kate Dale (@LaurakBuzz) December 28, 2016

The two's live stream can be viewed here but the stream is 30 minutes long and so here is the cliff notes created by Nintendo Life's Dan Thompson. You'll all so see some notes by me in Bold.

• There's a record button on the left Joy-Con. We've previously assumed that button to be an NFC reader.
• There will be no friend codes, DeNA is helping Nintendo with the networking. 
• The leak from Reddit user 'Genos' is fake.
• Laura was asked if there was the possibility of Red Dead Redemption 2 or Overwatch coming to the Switch. Regarding Red Dead, she stated that there's almost no way it's going to happen due to Rockstar's relationship with Nintendo. She assures that Overwatch wouldn't be there at launch, and the two stated that it would require a massively overhauled port due to the 'always-online' nature of the title. This bit seems off to us if Overwatch can't come to Switch that rules out other every MMO and "always online" titles like Destiny, Division and others like Rocket lead. The 3DS doesn't feature mobile internet but that hasn't stopped two MMOs in Japan (Monster Hunter Frontier and Dragon Quest X)
• Don't expect a delay for the Nintendo Switch.
• Laura was asked about voice-chat, before she was going to answer she asked if she could say anything due to OBE1 releasing a video detailing it out soon. This basically confirmed the fact that it's going to be included, smooth move guys. This isn't too helpful as the Wii U supported voice chat but not as a system wide feature.
• The system will have Bluetooth, not sure to what extent. One assumes the Pro pad and Joy-Cons are not wired USB devices.
• The Joy-Cons will be available to be purchased separately at launch date. Docks will be purchasable after 6 months and will be 'cheap'.
• There won't be a bundle that includes the Pro Controller, they will be purchasable separately.
• The battery will last around 3 hours with everything at maximum. We know from Unreal code that the Switch can throttle performance to 60% in portable mode so if 3 hours at max, then 5-6 hours at 60% is possible
• The charging port is USB and will easily and quickly charge the system. Yay, power banks!
• Only expect three virtual console Gamecube games at launch, they will be optimised for their original resolutions.
• At launch, there will only be one colour of the Switch, and it will be the default grey. However, there's a slight chance that there will be multiple colours after launch. Pretty sure every Nintendo system after the SNES got multiple colours after launch.
• The right Joy-Con has an IR pointer akin to the Wiimote, this will allow touch-screen functionalities while docked. 
• The entry bundle for the switch will have 32GB of onboard storage, Micro SD card support will extend to 128 GB. hard limit or will players be able to risk larger cards? also, yay Micro SD!
• When asked about Mass Effect Andromeda, she brought up the point that Mass Effect 3 sold horrendously on Wii U and that there are no plans to release the title. This isn't exactly a 'rumour' as the developers have already ruled out a port. I'm sure EA knows full well why ME3 sales was low on Wii U *cough* trilogy *cough*

Separately Ms Dale is still unsure on whether if the Breath of the Wild will be on the Nintendo Switch at launch, From her sources she believes that Mario Switch will be a launch title whilst Breath of the Wild will hit later. Whilst I don't have the sources of Ms Dale, the fact that Tantalus has games in development for Switch does make my "Zelda-delay-sense" tingle. (Tantalus are the studio behind the HD remakes of Wind Waker and Twilight Princess) though it would seem utterly bizare to rob the Switch of all that "wild hype" in favour of any brand boost from Super Mario Run.

Abe's Take

It's not long before we can call time on these rumours as we're less than a quarter of a month away from the full reveal by Nintendo. 

Rumour: Smash Switch Port/Amiibo Delayed

And we're back to Nintendo Switch rumours, it was nice writing about Metro and Mass Effect for a change. Today we seemingly have a rebuttal to another rumour intentionally/accidentally using today's source.

Today's report come from our pal (they don't know that) Laura Dale. Today she is reporting that Super Smash Bro's 4 is coming to the Nintendo Switch but will not be available at launch but will hit some point in the first 6 months after launch. Unlike the previous rumour (that other places linked to) Ms Dale sources are not saying this will be a "director's cut" or that it will feature any new content beyond the original DLC from the Wii U. They are also unable to get any confirmation on Gamecube controller support or if the 3DS exclusive levels will be ported across too.

However, this port might of coming at a cost for Amiibo fans Dale's sources say that the Bayonetta and Cloud Amiibo will be delayed so they can be launched alongside "Super Smash Bros for Switch".

Source

Abe's Take
Something pinged in my head as I was writing that last part as both Bayonetta and Final Fantasy are rumoured to be seeing Nintendo Switch ports/sequels.

The life expectancy of my Wii U will probably be determined by how true these rumours of ports and director cuts are. The Wii U holds the crown for multiplayer get-togethers and will probably hold it until the Switch gets games to replace it.

Rumour: Metro 3 Outed

The Metro games are some of the tensest and atmospheric FPS on the market, being trapped on the toxic surface, wounded and heavily breathing into what remains of my gas mark as the last filter slowly fail. Nothing has topped that moment since.

It seems we have now seen the most iron-clad leak of all time. Dmitry Glukhovsky, the author of the Metro novels has released a Metro timeline alongside the English version and there is an curious addition for 2017: 'The next Metro video game' with the text "it all adds up to something, Where the books end their story, the game will pick it up. An era of great discoveries lie ahead."

Which is rather exciting as nothing has been announced for the 3rd Metro game. It would certainly be an interesting turn for the franchise as Metro 2035 sees the return of Artyom as the people of the Metro attempt to retake the surface world, it seems likely that Metro 3 could be a rather different experience.

Not played Metro? well get on it, the two games saw a bundle remaster release for current gen and unlike the other remasters the developers applied all the gameplay improvements.

Abe's Take
Well I'm going to through a rumour tag on this but it seems rather pointless but just in case, there it is. Well, think I know my plans for the new year now, time to reread and replay the series in order.

Rumour: Nintendo Switch to get Wii U "Director's Cuts"

Here's me digging into Xenoverses 2's multiplayer so I can finally finish the review and a little blinking light on my phone inform me of yet another Nintendo Switch dump. Dear news-minions; Prepare the salt!

Oddly no, these rumour's do not come from Laura Dale but instead from a site (Mobiepicker) I had not heard off until today.. oh wow that's a lot of salts the minions have brought me.

[please not the source has either intentionally or accidently set up their information right next to Laura Dale's she is NOT the source of this infomation]

NFC ID
The source of today's rumour dump reports that the Nintendo Switch will support "player ID cards" that act as a means of continuing your progress on another Switch, taking your unlocked content to a friends version of the game eg your Mario Kart progress, they even go on to say its possible for the cards to transfer some games temporally (though we struggle to believe anything outside of the Virtual Console could be transfered via an NFC card). Apparently, this was developed as a sort of bypass of the systems battery life. These cards will be available to buy for $10, with custom versions sold through the Nintendo Store, and one will be included in the box.

It is interesting to note the Wii did have the ability to store select data, Mii's mostly (though I do recall saving a version of my hunter on the Wiimote on Monster Hunter Tri) on the Wiimote itself so this isn't without precedent.

Director's Cuts
Before the reveal, it was speculated and "leaked" repeatedly that 'key' Wii U titles will see a 2nd life on "the NX" as remasters. The Nintendo Switch reveal came along and gave those rumours a high five and a punch in the guy. Two of the long rumoured game appeared in the trailer but showed curious differences to the Wii U titles. Mario Kart had a new character and 2 item slots, whilst Splatoon teased a heap of new customization options. The idea that these expanded versions would appeal to both Wii U owners and non-Wii U owners who "missed" them. In what is either wishful thinking or the most consumer friendly move 'mobipicker' also reports that Nintendo will be offering these remasters for free for digital owners of the originals and say that Nintendo is working with retailers to allow gamers to trade in the physical copies for a free digital code/discount on physical version. Directors cuts of Mario Kart, Splatoon and Smash Bro's will be available at launch.

This is a bit iffy to us as Nintendo is known for charging for Virtual Console releases on 2nd platforms Wii-Wii U, for example, had an upgrade cost, admittedly the Wii U VC did boast some more features but still seems a million miles from FREE UPGRADES. However, we do expect these titles to see ports on Switch as other great Wii U games have ported to 3DS to make up for the Wii U's reach (Hyrule Warriors, Yoshi Wolly World, and Mario Maker)

Super Mario Switch
Or that is its working name according to their source is set to be an "amalgamation" of the series (3D entries like 64 and Galaxy) and will feature power-ups (LIKE EVERY MARIO EVER) that allow players to access different areas. They go on to say that some levels will connect to one another, the example given has a 2D level connecting an ice hub area to a desert level (this sounds like the hidden levels in 64.) Finally, they say the game will feature co-op but to keep the game from descending into the same anarchy as 3D world will be limited to 2 players.

It's hard to say this is real or not because it mostly describes a 3D Mario game, though I do like the idea of a more focused 2 player co-op Mario in the Style of Mario 64/Sunshine.

Price
Finally, they claim to have details on three bundles for the Nintendo Switch

• 'Basic' bundle ($260) - Switch, Joy-Cons, dock, NFC ID, and (maybe) the controller mount
• Mario Bundle ($300) - The basic bundle with Mario packed in.
• Zelda bundle ($340) - Basic bundle, Zelda and a pro controller.

That's the sort of ballpark everyone has been saying the Nintendo Switch needs to be to compete with Xbox 1 and PS4.

Abe's Take

on the whole its all very viable but the fact that none of the other leakers isn't saying the same thing it seems off. It is worth noting so far they haven't outright disagreed with it (outside its weird structure either intentionally or accidently linking it to Ms Dale) but then again this is the sort of stuff people expect with a new system launch. We are 69 days from the reveal, just how many more rumours could there be!?

MH Stories Amiibo Mystery!

Monster Hunter Stories is the RPG spin-off to the core Monster Hunter series but instead of taking on the role of hunter, players become Riders instead, choosing to use the beasties as mounts instead of raw material for the next gear upgrade.

Why we're talking about Monster Hunter Stories? well, it's because the game has some very confusing messaging about if it's coming west. Capcom refuses to confirm its coming over but the accompanying anime has been dubbed into English and released online.

Now we have yet more... oddity regarding Stories' journey thanks to yesterday's Animal Crossing: New Leaf Amiibo update. Whilst the west's version of the Direct boasted Amiibo support from the Animal Crossing, Zelda and Splatoon series, the Japanese version also touted support from the epic Monster Hunter Stories line of Amiibo




Well turns out that content is also available to us in the west, in English, on PAL versions of the game, and using the same (imported) Amiibo (we've known for some time the Amiibo are region-free). Is this proof of Monster Hunter Stories coming west? Or is Nintendo really going out of their way to protect Amiibo usage?

[UPDATE: Been informed Amazon (UK) has some available for import]

Everyone thank "NintenDaan" for the pic and confirmation.

Abe's Take
Whilst I'm not as excited about Stories as I am about the core series, I would love for it comes to the west. However, I think that Monster Hunter Stories probably has the most conflicting signs of localisation than any game before it.

Rumour: Nintendo Switch Release Date

Nintendo Switch rumours ahoy! 

Prolific Nintendo Switch rumour... reporter? yeah, let's go with a reporter, Laura Dale is back with chatter about the Nintendo Switch's exact launch date.

Being told March 17th is currently planned Switch launch day in PAL, will release worldwide that same week but not same date all regions.

— Laura Kate Dale (@LaurakBuzz) November 2, 2016

So we're looking at a mid-March release date for our UK and EU readers, It also happens to be a Friday which is a fine day to release a new system. Ms Dale's source for these rumours is the very same one that provided her with the Nintendo Switch reveal. She also reports that Japanese launch will be earlier than the PAL release.

Dale is aware that people are speculating the 10th but that appears to be entirely based on March 10th can be shortened to "Mar10" but which to be fair Nintendo did make a big deal about that this year. It's also against the reported release date for the Breath of the Wild Amiibo's reported date of March 4th. It's possible the Wii U version to launch earlier but Nintendo had previously confirmed BotW would see a dual launch.

We've previously reported Nintendo expect to ship two million units at launch and it seems that UK retailer GAME is expecting a mid-month launch as they have open pre-orders at an eye-watering £999

People who've read our page before might have a Metal Gear style "! moment" at the release date as its the same as Monster Hunter XX's (read as "double cross") Japanese release, which is either incredibly heartless of Capcom (MH releases tend to damage Japan's national productivity) or there is a Switch port in the works.

Abe's Take
This is what we were expecting as March but of cause these are all rumour at the moment until we get real information from Nintendo at the Switch's full reveal on January 12th.

Capcom Wants Monster Hunter To Grow

The Monster Hunter franchise never really grabbed a foothold in Japan outside of the MMO -console community and the west just didn't like it, The segmented map and R stick for attacking just alienated console gamers. However releasing MH on the PSP turned the segmented map into an asset, removed the right stick and turned MH into a money printing franchise Japan.

The franchise picked up more steam when the high costs of PS3 development and high Wii sales caused the franchise to switch banner, this lead to the inevitable nexus of Monster Hunter and 3DS. Now Monster Hunter is Capcom's biggest earning, spawning spin-offs and extended media, in a way that Street Fighter struggled to do.

So you can imagine our surprise when Capcom says it's unhappy. In the west handhelds only account for 10% of the market and is taking steps to "adjust" for the western market. Capcom predicts lifetime sales of Xbox One and PS4 as 50 million and 100million respectively. They believe Monster Hunter is limiting it's sales in the west by being handheld exclusive and that it must make games to "appeal to the foreign consumers"

So what does this mean? well, there was an old rumor that MH will see its main entries on PS4 and portable titles on 3DS but this to punish the core Monster Hunter audience in Japan. The Nintendo Switch seems a good fit as it fulfills both roles but its user base is going to start from scratch.

We think it's important (and worrying) that Capcom is only talking about systems sold and market share, they aren't saying the franchise is limited by the power of handhelds or handheld culture, only that there isn't enough of them over here. That creates a large shadow... there is a platform that has a huge install base and easily the ability to run a Monster Hunter game... mobile, last year 135 million iPhones was sold that one platform outsold the Capcom's predicted lifetime console sales of the PS4.

I guess we are just going have to wait to see what moves Capcom makes next.

Abe's Take
This is awfully worrying to me, this news as got the PS4 forums up in a frenzy about the "awesome" Monster Hunter game they are getting. According to them Monster Hunter on PS4 means no more segmented worlds, ditching the current gameplay for 'better' one and more welcoming to new players. Even suggesting things like XP driven level ups and life bars. Which to me and many other Monster Hunter fans doesn't sound like the game we love. Monster Hunter was some odd action game until it hit portable and everything just snapped into place,

For full disclosure: I've been playing Monster Hunter on PS2, PSP, Wii, Wii U and 3DS,

Source (Japanese)

RUMOUR: End of Wii U/Capcom Multiformat Odds

Oh phew! was starting to think there wouldn't be any Nintendo Switch rumours today but here we are with some freshness.

Wii U's Death?

Whilst Nintendo has been repeatedly confirming the 3DS will carrying on after Switch they have been quiet on the Wii U. They once said the (then) NX wouldn't replace both systems but since it's reveal, the Wii U hasn't been mentioned and now Emily Rogers has apparently confirmed with her sources that the end is sooner than we'd think.

This is correct. I'm hearing production officially ends this month. https://t.co/WQL8cPqIIK

— Emily Rogers (@ArcadeGirl64) November 1, 2016

Okay, then let's get more specific. Wii U production is ending this week. https://t.co/qYZvOnnFxw

— Emily Rogers (@ArcadeGirl64) November 1, 2016

It's no the first time we've heard the Wii U will meet it's official end this year but this week? damn!

UPDATE: Eurogamer says their sources also confirm the Wii U's death this week.

Capcom's Multi-format 
Capcom is a desired third party for Nintendo Switch, as Monster Hunter sells portable systems like no other title that isn't Pokemon and us at GK-UK had instant flashes of Street Fighter when in the reveal you had two people playing on one Switch (Fun Fact: each Joy-Con has enough inputs for Street Fighter). Even back in the days of the NX rumour mill, people discovered that Resident Evil 7 was trademarked for "video game cartridges" alongside the usual disk and digital options, which lead to speculation it could see a Switch port. After all, Nintendo has since confirmed Capcom as an "official partner" for the Switch

However, the Wall Street Journal's Takashi Mochizuki has thrown a cloud of doubt over Capcom bringing their multiformat titles to the Nintendo Switch

Capcom says Sony and Nintendo approach game business differently, not that simple to make multi-platform games

— Takashi Mochizuki (@mochi_wsj) October 28, 2016

If this is a roadblock to the likes of Street Fighter V or (preferably) Ultra Street Fighter IV from appearing on Switch, it should at least in theory block Monster Hunter (outside of the MMO) from heading back to Sony, which out of the two IP's is probably better for Switch.

Abe's Take
It's sad to see the Wii U officially end but it's the right thing to do, with a new system 5 months away and super little on the way for the machine.

And regards to Capcom I would love to see Monter Hunter, Resident Evil, Dragon's Dogma and Street Fighter on the Switch but I do have to rate Street Fighter in particular chances as very low. If Microsoft can not get USFIV on backwards compatibility then it's likely Sony has the IP locked down.

Rumour: OOPS! Tomb Raider 3 Spotted in the Wild

The Tomb Raider reboot series has managed to snag a good amount of classic the Tomb Raider series (such as our own Cori) and those who wasn't fans (such as me). Obviously with the 20th anniversary, the PS4 release and the DLC for Xbox Tomb Raider is on everyone's lips.


Now picture this scene. You're late, your office is working on a big project with the guys in California and you're behind on your work, what do you do? Well, you jump on the train and do your work on the go, you focus on your work and get some solid work done. Sound like a win right?

Unfortunately, some chap called Tripleh280 snaps what you are working on and shares it with reddit. And suddenly you have exposed to the world the 100% unannounced-so-take-this-with-some-salt next entry in the rebooted Tomb Raider series

Okay it's a blurry picture but that reportedly says "Shadow of the Tomb Raider" The point of interest here is that the snap was taken in Montreal, which whilst is home to plenty of amazing game developers including the Edios Montreal the nifty Deus Ex reboot series it is not the home of Crystal Dynamics the masters of the rebooted Tomb Raider, that is in Califonia.

Could Edios Montreal be helping out? it's not unheard for studios to help the main one, typically multiplayer gets passed to a separate team and seeing as we rather enjoyed the multiplayer in Rise of the Tomb Raider's anniversary DLC this is preferred. However its also very possible that Edios is taking over entirely, unfortunately, we won't know till its actually announced.

Abe's Take.

We're big fans of the Tomb Raider reboot here, we've enjoyed the story, Lara's personal overhaul, and the gameplay has been fantastic. That being said we really hope the Crystal Dynamics are still taking the lead as it always takes at least one game for a new studio to "get" what the first studio's lead.

RUMOUR: Host of Technical Details Appear

Yep, another batch of Nintendo Switch rumours... I remember when I wrote about other things but people want the switch, seriously our viewership has increased a 100 fold since the NX started to heat up. Thank you for that BTW.

Today's rumours are a little different as they all reference various technical aspects of the Switch's hardware. As always we'll try to reason these rumours but as always best grab some salt.

RAM
First up with Emily Rodgers is now saying her sources have confirmed the retail version of the Nintendo Switch will have 4GB of RAM, not just the dev-kits.

Alright. I have some good news. I can confirm that Switch has 4GB of ram in RETAIL units. Not just the dev kits. Double the Wii U's ram.

— Emily Rogers (@ArcadeGirl64) October 30, 2016

Compared to the Wii U that's double but compared to the Xbox One and PS4's 8GB it seems low. It is worth remembering PS4 holds back 3.5 GB for its OS, while the Xbox locks up 3GB and whilst we don't know what the OS for Switch is like other "portable" platforms' (tablets, phones and Handhelds) OS are very lightweight. What this does mean though is providing the OS isn't a Behemoth then the Switch would be "within range" of the standard X1 and PS4.

It's also worth pointing out the above doesn't include any "boosts" the dock may/may not have and the fact that the Switch uses cartridges does mean games aren't as heavy on the RAM (I doubt this will come into play as it would rule out digital as an option for games that use that advantage).

Carts
According to Takashi Mochizuki of the Wall Street Journal, his sources say that Switch Standard Cartridges at launch would be 16GB.

Looks like standard capacity of Switch game card at least when console launched would be around 16; enough for one-layer Blu-ray game.

— Takashi Mochizuki (@mochi_wsj) October 28, 2016

That's less than the Wii U's 32GB and is about enough space for a "single layer Blu-Ray game". Which probably means very little as the 3DS launched with 2GB cards, Resident Evil Revelations was a 4GB card, as did Metal Gear Solid 3, Bravely Default and it's sequel. Apparently (according to the card makers) the 3DS card taps out at 8GB though no game has used it. The same company works on the Switch cards and giving the fact you can buy 128 GB MicroSD cards so it's not unreasonable to think we would see meaty cars high as 64GB, larger than a dual layer Blu-Ray (50GB)

Nvidia Chip
Japanese journalist Nishikawa Zenj has produced a report on what's reportedly inside the Switch

• Switch will likely use the NVIDIA Pascal ‘Parker’ architecture for its GPU
• the Tegra chip inside the platform could help the Switch evolve just like the PS4 and the PS4 Pro
• There are no indications that Nintendo will opt for the ‘Maxwell’ architecture within the Switch
• The custom NVIDIA chip will feature a floating-point performance around 1 TFLOPS
• There is almost “no possibility” that the Switch will perform above 1.5 TFLOPS due to the battery drive inside the Switch

So let's jump on the key points first the "evolve comment" means he believes Nintendo could launch a more powerful Switch later without "leaving" the generation, So like 3DS to New 3DS and not DS to 3DS. The Switch running at only 1 Teraflops might be weaker than the X1 (1.32) but less than the X1 is to the PS4 (1.84). Which like the RAM rumour throws the Switch into the same "ballpark" as the other two. Of cause, Teraflops isn't a true indication of how the system will perform in the real world.

For reference, the PS4 Pro is 4.14 and the Scorpio is 6 Teraflops.

Abe's Take

This is the sort of thing I was expecting to hear from the Nintendo Switch. Not as powerful as the X1 but close enough to make porting easy enough. I expect for third parties to market their Switch titles as portable versions of the "same great games" as on Xbox and PS4. But alas they are rumours and as such we must wait the 70-odd days till the full reveal.

Dear Nintendo, please release me from an never ending "30 days of" feature!

A confirmed game and MORE Nintendo Switch Rumours

Yep, these rumours just keep on coming, which makes sense as leakers are braver after Nintendo has revealed the device and at this point, the amount of people involved in developing the device must be expanding by the day. 

Offical
Koei Tecmo has confirmed its first Nintendo Switch game, interestingly it is not a Warriors game. Although it is in fact based on the same period as Samurai Warriors. Koei is bringing their latest title Nobunaga's ambition to the NS.

What type of game is it? well if you put a gun to my head and forced me to answer I'd say "it's a little like total war" but since you don't have a gun, I say check out some gameplay from the below live stream instead.

Nintendo president Kimishima has slightly elaborated more on the Switch "accessories" he made vague references to recently. It seems that theses accessories could be alternatives to the Joy-Cons attaching to the device, it seems we should find out at the Switch's party in January (the 12th)

"[In the trailer], we have shown you various scenarios [and] depending on the software, it will also allow you to do things beyond that." 

"In terms of the various ways you can play, you will have to see it together with the software and accessories that we'll have, which we will reveal in January."

Kimishima again confirmed the 3DS will keep going after the Switch launches stating that the system still has momentum and he doesn't expect the two devices to effect each other's sales.

Rumour
Eurogamer claims to have a scope on the Nintendo Switch's screen. According to their source, the device does feature a touchscreen, which is 6.2 inches, 720p, and a first for Nintendo a multipoint (rumoured to be 10) capacitive screen. The Wii U, 3DS and DS all used single point resistive touch screens. This means the screen like a tablet or smartphone is more accurate and can track more than one finger at a time. Eurogamer's report references an older rumour that the Joy-Con R has an IR pointer to emulate a touch screen when the system is docked for home use.

Another report references the eSports section of the reveal. Nintendo is apparently reaching out to all the major eSports organisers, teams and leagues about adding the Switch into the rotation. Obviously, Super Smash Bros has a healthy tournament scene according to sources Nintendo isn't trying to "lead" eSports but instead wants to be a part of it, the sources go on to say Splatoon was part experiment to see if Nintendo could make an eSports title, with Nintendo currently deciding between making a new title for eSports or if Splatoon could be improved to become one.

Abe's Take
All good stuff today but again this affirmation of continuing 3DS support, again worries me deeply. For example, if the 3DS is still active will that stops the Switch from inheriting it's titles will the guaranteed system sellers of Pokemon and Monster Hunter hit the Switch if the 3DS is still floating around? or will they release a port on the Switch instead effectively limiting the quality of the games?

To me confirming the 3DS does, in fact, have a shelf life is probably a bigger question on the Switch than even battery life. The Switch's greatest advantage is Nintendo merging its home and handheld business focusing the entire Nintendo fan base on 1 device. Lets hope this is just an enthusastic version of the normal "we'll support the old system for a while yet" that happens with console generations.

Nintendo Switch Official Teasing, Retail Chatter and Rumours Barrage.

Sigh! and I mean a really big one. 76 days of rumours, here is a fist full for of them now. There're some interesting comments from Nintendo President, and some UK retailers give their thoughts on the Switch

Official
according to Nintendo President Tatsumi Kimishima refers to the reveal video as "describing the core product" and that there was more to the system

By no means was that everything [in the preview trailer]. [On the ecosystem] It may be appropriate to call them accessories. Or it might be better to call them add-on hardware. It's probably more correct to call them accessories. You can assume that there will be a wider array.

This flashes back to their patent for an external performance booster and old rumours of VR which leads nicely to Kimishima's next part.

VR offers new ways of playing, but that depends on what kind of software can be played. If you ask us whether there are any possibilities, we can't say no. It may be that we will build VR software titles, I think that opportunity is available to us.

hmm, It wouldn't be too hard to create a mount like the Samsung Gear or Google Cardboard for the Switch. Kimishima also lightly talks about why we only see games during the reveal.

One thing we still can't show is the software lineup. We want people to touch the device in January and experience the software for themselves.

Chatter
So far the reveal has hit 23 million views on Nintendo's various Youtube channels and has been largely positive with 95% of viewers responding favourably. So whilst the public has been kind to the new machine Nintendo's investors on the other hand "hated" it. No one's sure on what they were expecting from Nintendo's new console reveal. They seemed to of believed that Nintendo would announce their new console was mobile games. However UK retailers GAME, ShopTo and HMV are pretty happy with the device.

It's very Nintendo to bring something new and different to the market. The early third party list supporting the console is impressive. Let's see what gaming brands are announced over the coming months. The storage space is high up on the list of questions. The future is most certainly going the digital way for Nintendo as well. The storage will dictate the requirements for cartridges which are unclear at the moment. - ShopTo

I was pleasantly surprised by the Switch reveal and I'm optimistic about it's sales potential. I think it's a significant step up from the Wii U and, with the third party support they're boasting, will hopefully appeal to a very broad spectrum of consumers. I look forward to seeing more details around the specs and, crucially, price! With the more powerful and established PS4 and Xbox One consoles now hovering around £249, the Switch needs to be competitive. - HMV

the SWITCH is another example of Nintendo differentiating its gaming experiences to appeal to a broad array of gamers. Nintendo has consistently developed home consoles and handheld gaming to see its beloved and engaging games and characters deliver ultimate fun and enjoyment. SWITCH is clearly taking some of the best features of handheld and home consoles and merging them into a fantastic new way to play. We will be bringing more details to our customers as soon as possible. - GAME

Rumours
First up with have Emily Rogers saying her source has information on Retro Studios current project. Reportedly it is not Donkey Kong or Metroid related and is a new IP for the studio, Rodgers was quick to point out this doesn't mean their game is an all-new IP for example,it could be F-Zero as they haven't made one before. Rodgers source also says we'll be playing Retro's new game next year,

Next up with Laura Dale's site "let's play video games" says a Nintendo source has contacted them to confirm the Switch's main unit does, in fact, support SDXC cards up to 128GB and that the SD slot is located behind the kickstand.

Abe's Take
It's been interesting seeing the response of gamers from around the world taking such a shine to the Switch after the Wii U's very rocky relationship. The reveal trailer seems to have delivered a far clearer message than the Wii U's marketing over its entire life span. As to the Switch getting lots of accessories, something people have talked about ever since Eurogamer leak but it's also something that was rumoured but never happened with the Wii (outside of plastic mounts).

More Switch Details and Rumours Appear

Yep back to more rumour but technically they aren't NX rumours, They're Switch rumours so its different.. Yeah I know but its the only way I'm going to get through this. 

Official
First up lets start with some confirmed news. The Nintendo Switch marks the end of Nintendo's adventure into dual screen gaming, which started with the DS and ended with the Wii U. The Switch will be strictly a single screen system, which was to be expected seeing as the device has to be inside a dock for the image to appear on the TV.

In other "well yeah obviously" news, Nintendo has also confirmed the Switch will not be "compatible with physical games from Wii U/3DS" which has an obvious eye brow raising wording. Could it be possible that digital Wii U and 3DS games be playable? Think its going to depend on where the Switch has a touch screen, without it you can dismiss any idea of backwards compatibility.

Also Amazon has a product page up for the Switch where players can sign up for email alerts.

Rumours
Now entering rumour town with some of the more stable rumours via Wall Street Journal which says Nintendo wont be making anymore Switch announcements this year about games, specs, or the status of region locking. This whilst disappointing it also makes a fair amount of sense as Nintendo has some high profile games on 3DS this Christmas. But also any official announcements for a future console are bound to get lost in PS4 Pro marketing and the Christmas media tornado.

Next we have Laura Dale saying her sources have confirmed the Switch features analog triggers, something the Wii and Wii U didn't have (which makes racing games a lot better), A multi touch screen, The dock gives the console a minor boost to help the console outputting to a TV, and finally (and more worryingly) a current battery life of 3 hours whilst on max settings.

Before we loose it, its worth noting that's doesn't mean the retail unit will have that life span, however a quick check on the Nvidia Shield Tablet turns out 3 hours is a huge improvement as that device only had 1 hour of playtime (a little more if you turn everything off). An additional detail here is that each Joy-Con appears to have its own battery, so you can use them in multiplayer and free from the device as such having them attached could drain the battery on the unit quicker.

And finally Emily Rogers is saying the Switch will see at least two "enhanced ports" from the Wii U. Supposedly these include the two we saw in the trailer: Mario Kart and Splatoon but also Smash 4 and Super Mario Maker. Obviously that last one might have trouble as the Switch might not have a touchscreen and defiantly wont have a 2 screens.

Abe's Take

Whilst it seems like an ice age till we here more official details about the Switch till next year but thats actually 70 days/just over 2 months and there is plenty for us to do between then and now.

NX (Rumour) Battle!

NX chatter is really starting to pick up again, Is it because Nintendo is entered that leaky period before reveal? Or is it because the Shareholders meeting is about a week away and Nintendo has to at least mention it for then? Seeing how long we waited so far... probably the second.

Anyway on to today's news and this is a bit interesting.

First up with have long time Nintendo "insider" Emily Rogers whose record is a bit spotty as she has in the past "read between the lines" to make predictions that have failed but has also tapped into good sources correctly predicting Paper Mario: Colour Splash.

So...Both this week and next week should be interesting.

— Emily Rogers (@ArcadeGirl64) October 17, 2016

I believe this week is an important week for NX. Next week's investors meeting will answer more questions about NX. https://t.co/LuI9HKk1I8

— Emily Rogers (@ArcadeGirl64) October 18, 2016

Which lines up with other sources over the last few weeks its possible she's simply repeating the Macquire and she's quick to point out To Nintendo Life's own Thomas Whitehead (who state a broken clock is right twice a day).

@ThomasBW84 I'll just say this. My teasing wasn't based on any past reports.

— Emily Rogers (@ArcadeGirl64) October 17, 2016

However since then she has climbed down form her position after contacting other sources.

After speaking to some people, I'm not 100% convinced that news will happen this week. But I do have a software update if you're interested.

— Emily Rogers (@ArcadeGirl64) October 19, 2016

So instead Ms Rogers offers us a possible glimpse into a new IP from Nintendo, which is apparently "not like Wii Sports"

New IP coming to NX from one of Nintendo's teams in Japan. Described as weird, fun and crazy. "Nintendo doesn't have another game like this"

— Emily Rogers (@ArcadeGirl64) October 19, 2016

However! Dr. Serkan Toto an game industry consultant at of Kantan-Games, who has been pretty good in the past doesn't believe we'll the NX this week, whilst also confirming DNeA is doing the grunt work on Super Mario Run (which currently has 20 million notifications) whilst Nintendo handles direction and level design.

3) No trolling intended+take this one with a big grain of salt, but I was told not to expect a NX reveal this week. Might be wrong! //end

— Dr. Serkan Toto (@serkantoto) October 18, 2016

Whilst he's certain on his source for Super Mario Run but his NX source is apparently a bit shakier.

"It is unlikely—though not impossible—that the company would talk about the NX this week via online presentations." https://t.co/12NVy7apsZ

— Dr. Serkan Toto (@serkantoto) October 19, 2016

Dr. Serkan Toto is certain Nintendo will talk about the NX next week but they would HAVE to because it's their share holders meetings.

Abe's Take
Come on Nintendo it is time to show your hand, everyone else has checked and has patiently waited to see what you have. Today we've had two people claimed opposing things but then backed down from their positions leaving us... here. Again.

Rockstar Registers RDO

Well this is interesting. After two days of direct but wordless teasing Rockstar has registered a new domain name and it certainly connects to an new Red Dead title.

You may want to sit down for this but trust us don't panic right away. Right ready?

The domain is for Red Dead Online. Right stop right now and move your hand away from the pitch forks and torches. I know the rather good (and well updated) Online mode to GTA gets a lot of anger from fans who desperately want some single player DLC. However the RDR's multiplayer mode was fantastic and received an fair amount of DLC alongside the amazing Undead Nightmare.



Of cause we'll be the first inline with our flaming pitchforks if its the ONLY part of this series of teases. Now as an expansion to GTA Online that comes as part of an remaster or an follow up Red Dead Online could certainly be a worth while addition, though that might have something to do with the humorous idea of fleecing people of their micro-transaction bought cash via an "friendly" game of poker. 

Abe's Take
With this simple teases its nice to have something a little more detailed even if its just a web address. Rumour has it we'll be seeing a younger John Marston this Friday in a reveal trailer.

Hmm another rumour about a reveal this week... interesting (we are not suggesting RDR will come to the NX because life is never that fair)

RUMOUR: Beyond Good and Evil details

A while ago there was story on Destructoid that Beyond Good & Evil would be getting a follow up and it would be NX exclusive. This obviously caused some upset with X1 and PS4 fans but also apparently Ubisoft who ask Destructoid to take the article down, something you don't do if the article is inaccurate.

UPDATE: We made a mistake regarding the rumoured launch year, the article has been corrected.

ORIGINAL STORY: Well since then not only has Ubisoft confirmed the game is actually in pre-production but its creator Michel Ancel (Rayman) has been releasing concept art for the follow up.

 

Well today the original author of that Destructoid article, Laura Kate Dale is back with even more information and reconfirms (via a seperate source) that the new game will infact be an NX exclusive. Dale's sources all so say the new game isn't actually a sequel but a semi reboot, prequel and sequel... thing, which at first seems confusing but it seems they want to use it to relaunch the franchise.

"According to our source, the currently planned direction for the game is that it will partially retell Jade's origin tale from Beyond Good & Evil, flesh out Peyj's backstory, then continue to extrapolate on the ending of the original game. The intention is that players who have not played the original will be able to jump into the new game, which will feature a subtitle rather than a number at the end of its title, and understand both who Jade is and what drives Pey'j. It also seeks to provide closure to fans of the original wondering what the cliffhanger at the end meant for the series' ongoing plot.

While many existing fans of the series may be upset about the new game not being a direct sequel, the idea of modernising the original tale and fleshing out the world while continuing the story beyond where it once ended offers the series a better chance of an ongoing life than it previously had."

Dale's source also says that Beyond Good & Evil will be present at the NX reveal with an CGI trailer. If recent chatter is to believed should be this week. According to this rumour NX owners should be playing the subtitled Beyond Good & Evil summer 2018.

Abe's Take
This wouldn't be the first Ubisoft "hardcore" exclusive for Nintendo (Zombi U) or the first time an multi-format game got an Nintendo exclusive sequel (Bayonetta 2). It would at least make more sense this being Nintendo exclusive as the original title was warmly received on the GameCube but I suspect there will be plenty of backlash.

NX Reveal Soon? Also Some Rumour Round Up

Yep its time for more NX chatter... we know we're rather bored of it at this point too but since MS is being ultra vague about Scorpio and the PS4-Pro is kinda disappointing, the NX is the only mystery hardware we have ahead of us. Hey! At least we're not digging up old forum posts, Harassing Zelda Williams, or talking about mysterious (and evidence free) Miyamoto sightings at Universal Studios.

Update: Turns out I missed more details from the Gameblog rumour, jump to the bottom to see the updated list.

Original Story: So onto today's chatter. Wall Street Journal's technology reporter Takashi Mochizuki believes that NX details are on their way.

Speculation is Nintendo would unveil NX details in coming week. I guess all we can do is just wait. No announcement from company yet.

— Takashi Mochizuki (@mochi_wsj) October 16, 2016

As you can see Mr Mochizuki is only relaying speculation, however he used this in the past and was right about Nintendo ending the Wii U's production in 2016. It stands to reason that we should hear about the NX soon other sources such as an damming report from Macquire Group, an investment banking firm (downgrading Nintendo's status) claiming details was coming (then) 'next week' and of cause Nintendo has an shareholders meeting on the 27th of this month. It would be very hard to ease the concerns of investors with Super Mario Run; which is exclusive to half the mobile base and will probably be skipping China (estimated to be 60% of the mobile gaming market by Macquire). 

There is also been chatter for a while that Nintendo will reveal the NX in a special direct on the 21st which just so happens to be this week, before the Nintendo shareholders briefing and the 5th, and the anniversary of the first ever Nintendo Direct. Boy is there going to be a lot of red faces if there is still no NX by next Monday.

Rumour Round Up

Hey Link.... Wait a minute!?

First up we have developer FDG Entertainment confirming their Wind Waker inspired mobile game Oceanhorn (now an enhanced version is on X1 and PS4) is coming to PS Vita and 'A Nintendo console'. Its unclear if the dev has an NX kit or if they just want to port their game to it whenever it arrives.

Next up with an unnamed retailer claims to be leaking various details about the NX. Here's their wide range of information in handy bullet point form.

Marketing

• “Interact with your game on the go.” phrase seen on a poster.
• Strong co-branding effort with a Mario launch title.
• Console is currently set to launch with least 4 titles on deck (assumed Nintendo titles).
• Stores should be receiving demo units around February.
• Base price point is sitting at $299.99 *

Bundle

• The NX is set to have a bundle but the contents of this bundle is currently unknown however its price is currently $399.99 * (Falls line with the price range by Macquire) 

Packaging

• The packaging for the NX will be slightly larger than the Wii U’s packaging.
• The packaging is relatively clean and simple and is similar to the Wii U in terms of package design.
• The color scheme for the packaging is white and blue (compared to the Wii U’s blue and black).
• The packaging seems to be an prototype as it still says “NX” however there is still no indication if this is a placeholder or the final name and he areas of the packaging that would usually depict the hardware were blurred by Nintendo in attempt to keep it hidden.

Features and Specs

• Games will be on cartridges (heard this before)
• 4k streaming has been mentioned. – What this likely means is playback of content such as Netflix, etc. Not gameplay. (heard this before)
• 1080p and 60fps are being used by the marketing teams in relation to gameplay on to the console portion. I’ve heard unconfirmed rumblings of 900p for the infamous hybrid part of the device.(hey this too!)

Next up we have an report from Gameblog.fr who has been right AND WRONG before. They mostly reported old details we've heard before and then added some extra to it, which hey is here.

• “Sure about 20 games in development” Their sources are currently developing on the platform and have devkits 
• “You’ll be able to verify these leaks very soon” but not aware of the actual reveal date. 
• Nintendo hasn’t shared all of the NX “gimmicks” with their dev yet Hybrid confirmed but not the only “surprise” 
• Confirmed there are detachable controllers 
• No real dock where you plug the handheld, but a wireless ‘dongle’ 
• Upscaling for the TV, The handheld game is the same as the “docked” game Games look good on the handheld screen (780 – 900p), about PS4 level Ports should be easy despite the different architecture 
• Very positive feedback on the dev tools 
• Breath of the Wild looks nicer on NX 
• Smartphone connectivity maybe possible 
• VR not out of the question but first tests aren’t satisfying. 
• Lots of remasters planned (Skyward Sword, MK8, Splatoon, Smash 4, N64 and Wii games) 
• FFXV and FFVII Remake are coming to NX 
• Platinum Games and Capcom are in. (PLEASE be Monster Hunter, Street Fighter and Bayonetta) 
• Ubisoft with BG&E 2 discussed but not confirmed, Splinter Cell and a Yoshi / Rabbid Rabbits crossover being discussed too

Abe's Take
SHOW US THE THING! Mainly because I want to see it but also I'm tired of reporting on these rumours.

I would imagine if Nintendo doesn't reveal the NX before their meeting on the 27th then its possible it wont be till after Christmas.