14 DAY TRIAL // The Wii U is the only next-generation console to be confirmed as launching during this year, but Nintendo might fail to make the new platform a success as long as it does not manage to attract third-party publishers to the new device.
Michael Pachter, who is an analyst working for Wedbush Morgan, has told GamesIndustry.biz that “If that is right, the Wii U will have limited appeal, and ‘Xbots’ and Sony fanboys will just wait for the upgrades to their favorite systems.”
He added, “I really think the key is third party support, and from what I’m hearing, it is very light so far. Nintendo will be all right, they have a ton of cash, but I don’t think they will get to the sales levels they are accustomed to with this device. I’m most interested in third-party support, and we should get an idea of that at E3.”
Pachter believes that it makes sense for Nintendo to create a home console that is about as powerful as the current offerings from Sony and Microsoft, because developers are able to port a number of games that they are already launching during the current year.
The Wedbush Morgan analyst also says that the 300 dollars (228.6 Euro) is a good one for the launch of the Wii U.
Nintendo plans to re-reveal the console at the upcoming E3 2012 trade show, offering more information on the hardware specifications and revealing the big games that will be available on launch date.
Shigeru Miyamoto has confirmed that he plans to create a new Super Mario Bros for the Wii U.
Both Sony and Microsoft have stated that they have long-term plans for their PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 consoles.
Rumors suggest that the two companies are already working on new home consoles that will be released during 2013.