A Flicker of Hope

Jon here.

Nintendo fans have endured a lot over that past 3 generations. Long software droughts ailed the N64. The Gamecube was ruthlessly ridiculed as a toy and for “kiddy” software. The Wii’s lower horsepower compared to its contemporary systems caused it to get half-assed ports of multiplatform games, if any at all. But the Nintendo faithful are a resilient bunch, firmly believing that Nintendo’s first party software will deliver in unique and satisfying ways that other software does not. The latest test of the Nintendo fan’s resolve comes not from waning third party support or internet trolls or lackluster software. It’s the lack of software. This latest test comes from Nintendo’s refusal to localize games confirmed or out in other territories.

But Nintendo’s fans are rallying, refusing to take this latest blow from a company whose games we’ve spent countless hours playing and anticipating. The support around Operation Rainfall is incredibly uplifting. The ability of the fans to come together around a common cause is restoring my faith that we’ll be able to play games like Xenoblade Chronicles and The Last Story and Pandora’s tower. I’ve never been more proud to be a Nintendo fan or a gamer. This is a once-in-a-generation movement. So follow the blogs, comment on the Nintendo facebook updates, write the letters and emails. I have. We can change things.

So now it’s your move, Nintendo. Operation Rainfall cannot be ignored for long. Your philosophy for your next home console is one that is inclusive to both casual gamers and core gamers – the party games alongside the deep single player experience. This last holiday for the Wii will set the groundwork for the Wii U. Your strategy begins now.