GameStop to launch Android gaming platform

[TheChefO]

I fail to see how the Wii-U fits in that description.
If anything, the Wii-U will fail for not following some "me too" trends (like selling uber-powerful hardware at a loss during the first years of the console).

Not to detract too far, but it fits the description of "desperation grab" by not following on their own trend of usability, simplicity and approachability that Wii used to great effect in bringing in gamers and non-gamers to a new experience.

MS took that concept to it's logical conclusion with Kinect and put up patent road block to deter others from following it's path.

With MS doing so, they killed the evolution of Wii, and as a result, we see the mess that is Wii-U.

Nintendo looked around and saw the next gadgetry thing on the market heating up was tablets and so attempted to blend it into their console strategy.

Given everything we know about what Wii-u can and can't do, it is obviously not a well thought out or master-planned gaming ecosystem.

They have strayed away from what made Wii as popular as it was/is (and the nintendo brand with it) and as a result it will fail (see virtuaboy).

Wii-U is a desperation grab as a result of quickly declining sales and a roadblock for the evolution of motion gaming. Both of which were caused by Kinect (and to a lesser extent, move).

Hopefully that clears up the description.

 

[RobertR1]

To me gamestop seems to trying hard in multiple directions to find a market niche for longevity. With DD on current consoles, PC gaming picking back up again and a guaranteed larger shift to DD next generation, their business model is in trouble.

 

[patsu]

I wouldn't count WiiU out. There is real value in bringing touch control to home console.

Execution is tougher now because people's perception have changed. Nintendo still have loads of money, compelling content, and savvy marketing.

They may skip smartphone gaming altogether, but it doesn't mean they won't do their own tablets. They will evolve WiiU. Personally, I think dedicated entertainment tablets/pads is a bigger threat than cellphone.

People may ding them for not releasing iOS/Android/Win8 games, but unlike Sony, they are already very well known for family entertainment. They will likely suffer in growth, but it doesn't mean they are boxed in. I think they should still release *something* on cellphones to showcase their talent once in a while. ;-)