Please note, the following is based partly on rumors and partly on speculation of those well versed in Nintendo business.
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It appears third party developers entrusted with the NX SDK may have slipped some information on the system.

Whoa wait, an S who what now?

First off let's cool our jets and explain a few things.

For starters, an SDK (Software Developer Kit) is an authorized kit made by the owners of an OS (Operating System) or Hardware (like a game console) that is distributed to third parties so they can make programs for the OS owner's/Hardware developer's product.

In other words, the NX SDK being shipped to third party developers means that Nintendo has sent the necessary hardware and software to third party developers (companies they do not own), so that these third party developers can make games for the NX.


Now then, this brings up a few interesting points.

#1. If the SDK is in the hands of third party developers as this article is being typed, we have a definite answer that the NX will be released very soon, as this means that Nintendo is setting up their launch library.
However, that shouldn't excite you or make you expect an early 2016 launch, as AAA games are said to take between two and five years to make. So...2017? If this was the first time anyone had touched an NX SDK, quite possibly yes. But it is not the first time apparently.

That's right, it seems that there is already a confirmed third party game for the NX: Dragon Quest XI. And what's more, a screenshot has surfaced for the game, meaning that -assuming the screenshot is legit- the game is likely well underway and this SDK was given to them long ago.

This however contradicts reports that the NX was shown for the first time to developers at this years E3. Also some have reported that the SDK is just now being released.

But to further the argument for both sides we could easily note that TWO Dragon Quest games look to release on the NX, and that, if the NX specs are even close to that of the PS4, with the game being developed using Unreal Engine 4 it could easily be ported to the NX in less than a year, and thus enjoy a launch date that mirrors it's PS4 launch. Also Dragon Quest XI is set to release next year to commemorate it's anniversary. A game set to release next year is planned for the NX? An extremely staggered release is possible, but not likely.

Translation: it looks like the possibility that the NX SDK may have been put out in time for a 2016 launch is entirely within reason.


#2. If third party developers are receiving these SDKs, it's because they saw what the system had to offer, and they asked for them.

So what, right? Here's what: for the most part, third party developers have avoided the Wii U like a plague. Why? Because of it's inferior power. So if you refused to make games on one system because it wasn't powerful enough to power your games, why would you ask for an SDK for the next system? Logically it would seem to follow that the new system is powerful enough.

Furthermore, by all accounts the third party developers who saw the NX (and avoid the Wii U) were pleased with what the NX had to offer. Also with Square Enix making the PS4 version of Dragon Quest XI the upscaled version of the game (it will also release a scaled down version on the 3DS), it looks as though the NX will be every bit as capable of powering the game as the PS4. And that screenshot looked very sharp.

Translation: It looks as though the NX Will be up to par with the PS4/XB1. Now before you go playing your fanfare, know two things: first, this is ALL speculation. Second, I call the first round of fanfare because Nintendo finally gave me what I've dreamed of for years.

#3. We appear to be looking at a far sturdier launch lineup for the NX than the Wii and Wii U had. By that I mean it would seem likely that the NX SDK being shipped to third party developers (and apparently a good while ago) would indicate that the NX looks to have a decent sized launch lineup. And it looks like Nintendo is planning a few special plays for their first party IP for NX as well. More on that later.

Translation: Gaaaameees!!!



What's Under The Hood?

Here's what we know about the NX specs: ......

Did you catch that? No, it wasn't blank because Link had the mic, I mean we know nothing about the NX specs, unless we count the opinions of those who claim to have some insight to Nintendo's business.

Apparently this person went on to say that the NX would have "industry leading chips". This would seem to imply that the NX not only looks to match the power of the PS4/XB1, but to outperform them in the power game. Yikes! This is exactly what Nintendo's position affords them, and it's exactly what they need, many would speculate.

But then again, we are talking about Nintendo here, so "industry leading chips" could simply mean the chips in it will enable a new feature that they believe will pave the way into gaming's next era. Let's hope it's the former, and if such comments are to be believed, it likely IS the former since the quote is not from Nintendo themselves.

Summary: It appears that this source is claiming that the NX will rival the PS4 and Xbox One in power, and actually best them. However, we can't say that's what they meant for sure.



Hybrid Confirmed?

Again, not a sure thing, but the source has said that the NX will have two parts so that the games may be played on the console or on the go. This sounds very much like the hybrid everyone has been chattering about, but if so, how do we reconcile this with the comment that it has industry leading chips? Who knows how this will play out.

One things for certain, if Nintendo has managed to pull off making the most powerful system to date and made it capable of being disconnected from the console and played on the go, this could potentially be the best game system we've seen for fans of modern gaming. It would certainly give the system mass appeal as well.

Again, this one is not a report from a developer.



2016 Release?

The last thing the second source stated was that the NX would likely launch in 2016. This is something we've all speculated about for a while and really believed would happen, but to hear this from a source who supposedly has the inside track is interesting to say the least.

Perhaps just as interesting is the fact that it's been reported that Nintendo has already finished developing the system and has given orders to begin mass production in April 2016, planning for twenty million at launch. The systems are supposed to be ready by July 2016. And to top it off, these supposed slipped reports were made three months ago! So if this is true, Nintendo was probably finished with the final NX product by this past E3, meaning developers saw the finished product on display -Not a prototype.



Nintendo Is Definitely Working On First Party IP For The NX

Again, don't get too excited. As stated earlier, the average AAA game is said to take two to five years to complete, so it's plausible that Nintendo began their work on NX games two years ago. However, with the release date of the NX being so imminent, they're doubtless finishing up some of their games for it as we speak.

So it seems that Nintendo is planning to either move Zelda U to the NX, or split it between the two systems. And even if this is not the case, Miyamoto let it slip several months ago that they already had plans for a Mario game for the NX in the works. And there has been plenty of time to make said game as well. Also the complete lack of a Wii U release in Spring would attest to the fact that the NX library is already being focused on by Nintendo and has been for a while now.



In Conclusion

Between rumors, slips, and speculation from apparently rather reputable sources, the NX should release between April and December of next year. And indeed, if Nintendo sticks to tradition the NX will be released the same year that it's revealed to the public at E3, which they have already confirmed will be next year.

What are your thoughts? Do you believe the NX will launch next year? Are you excited or disappointed at that prospect? Do you think it will be on par with the PS4/XB1 in terms of power? As always, I would love to hear your thoughts on the whole matter.

This is really interesting! I'm actually excited to see what will come from all of this. One of the biggest complaints on the Wii U was the lack of 3rd Party support. And the very, very first thing done with the NX is to give it to 3rd Parties. I wonder how top of the line the NX will really be. And if this system will have more games than the Wii U. And also, would this system be backwards compatible with the Wii U? Or will they at least continue internet support for it? It would be a shame to have the Splatoon and Smash 4 communities stomped out so fast.
Honestly I wouldn't be suprised if the next Zelda game just becomes a release title for the NX.

Well, if the NX launches in 2016, I'm going to have to hold off on buying a PS4 since I always buy the latest systems from Nintendo, and who knows how much the system will cost. What I'm interested in is, will 3rd Party developers have an easier time making games for this system than the NX? Will it really be a hybrid home and portable system? If so, then this could potentially become the best video  game system ever in my eyes.

A user of this : I disagree, I think the next Zelda game will come out on both Wii U and NX, similar to how Twilight Princess came out on both Gamecube and Wii.

A user of this : I'm wondering how top of the line it'll be too. I didn't outright say so in the article, but if the NX IS more powerful than the PS4, it stands a chance at turning the tides, but not all at once as many people have bought a PS4 in the last few months and so will be unwilling to part with more cash on a new system. Also developers will continue developing for PS4 even if it does get out powered because it already has a large install base. However over a few years time such a system would eventually prevail over all others. Plus I would LOVE to have a system like that myself. If they manage this AND the portability, the NX will definitely rival the PS4 for my system of choice.

As for Wii U backwards compatibility, if (and that's a big if) the patents we've recently seen are for the NX then the "console" won't have a disc drive, but the controller will instead house the games. If this is the case, I struggle to see the system utilizing discs unless they throw in a third piece for disc purposes and allow us to load the games onto the controller's memory through it, but that seems farfetched. So at this point I'm suspecting there will be no backwards compatibility. But Nintendo could certainly surprise us. Also if past trends are any indication, the Wii U will likely have online support for another two or three years.

But those are all just theories (no game theory jokes, please ). Regardless, I'm very much excited to see what they have in store.



gamerforlifefprever2 : Yeah, if this thing really is on par with or ahead of the PS4 in power and it's also portable, it'll be at the very least one of the best systems we've ever seen. I know I fully intend to buy one personally. Really the only big deal to me is if the system gets third party support. If it does then I'll be extremely excited. And with Square Enix signing up openly for an NX title (possibly two), it certainly looks as though the NX will get third party support. Hopefully this remains the norm for it.

And as someone who doesn't own a Wii U (yet), I don't really want the new Zelda game to be for both Wii U and NX, as it would have less potential than it would if it were NX only. However, as long as we get a truly open world Zelda title, I'll be happy regardless.

Eirinn : Yeah, if this system is as great as the rumors are saying it will be, then there's no reason why the system shouldn't get lots of 3rd party support. Combine that with Nintendo's always amazing lineup of first party titles, and they could be unstoppable in the next gen.

I'm excited to see what Nintendo has to offer with this system. Nintendo has proven time and time again that they are quick to move on if they don't think particular hardware is "cutting it" They are always trying to innovate as much as possible and able to move on if an idea isn't working.

I kinda doubt that we will see the console in 2016. Even if they show at E3 a launch by Next Thanksgiving/Holiday shopping season seems unlikely. I would guess that Fall of 2017 seems like the most likely launch point of a new console. That's just a guess though.

I've never really understood the whole "Backwards compatibility" thing. I mean if you want to play a game from an older platform, just play it on that console, or heck buy it when it's released digitally on the new platform.

Having things Backwards compatible doesn't seem on par with the "forward thinking" that many developers should have in these instances.

i READ THIS ARTICLE BEFORE GOING TO SCHOOL AND THIS IS ALL I COULD THINK OF ALL DAY SO I DREW IT

http://nintendofankimmy.deviantart.com/art/The-Nintendo-NX-567318850

I honestly don't feel that excited for the NX but knowing me if all of this is true then I will most definitely buy the system whenever I can afford it as my only complaint was the lack of titles that aren't just exclusives. The only problem is whether they will continue the online support with the Wii U. It wouldn't effect personally as I am not someone who plays online often but I know people who play a lot of MK 8 online. Not so much splatoon weirdly enough. As for release I have no idea. Whereas 2016 would give the console more time to sell 2017 would give Nintendo more time to advertise the console which is something they didn't do well with the Wii U at all. People thought it was an add on for the Wii.

So for anyone who cares, new rumors have surfaced from a supposed Ubisoft employee saying that the NX demo they saw was running stuff that was graphically more than "current gen intel" could run. Whether that means current consoles, or standard Intel chips, no one knows.
Also the source is highly questionable, so take that with a grain of salt.


Now on to replies.

Jordanv78 : Well that is true. I mean look at the Virtual Boy. They saw that it wasn't catching on and discontinued it after what, thirteen games? A lot of people think Nintendo is making a mistake here, and while I can't say that I haven't wondered the same myself, I can say that it makes sense to own up to a failed attempt and quit trying to force it to fly. I can see both sides really.


As for the launch date, I could go either way on that. I mean I agree that a year (or less if it's to release in July, however odd of a release month that may be) is NOT long enough to make a game, but since Square Enix has seen the NX and knows what it's OS looks like, they could know if a port from a PS4 build to an NX build within a few months is reasonable. For example, Octodad was ported from PC to PS4 in (if I recall correctly) two weeks, and that was with only one person handling the programming, and he was only working part time.

So with that as a reference, and the inevitability that Unreal Engine 4 will be updated to allow NX support, the possibility for a AAA game being released with less than a year of work is entirely within reason. I'm unfamiliar with that engine, but with Unity most of the porting work is done for you with the tick of a drop box, you merely have to change controller import scripts after that, and that would mean editing maybe twenty lines of code.

And then there's the fact that -barring the Wii- Nintendo has always revealed their new console at E3 the same year that it was released. But that's all speculation that proves nothing at all. I'm hoping for a 2016 release, but it might be better business to wait for 2017.


And backwards compatibility... I used to be big on the idea, but anymore I don't see it as an issue. I mean odds are if you buy a new system, you owned the previous one. If you did, then don't sell it. Pretty simple, really. And if you didn't, wait a bit and buy it because the price will eventually drop incredibly low most likely. Besides, I buy a new console for new games, not last generation's games.

And yeah, that's basically what Andrew House said about PlayStation 4 not being backwards compatible. What he said was essentially that they had to choose which way they wanted to go with PS4, and they decided to use all of their resources to move forward. He wasn't criticizing backwards compatibility though, I mean heck, PS2 is what really made it a thing (unless you count GB/GBC, which would be a legitimate reference on the matter).


NintendoFanKimmy : *looks at picture* Hey now, you DO know that I'm a PlayStation fanboy, right? :|

But yeah, even I have to admit that made me laugh a little. Nice one. I'm all too excited about the NX if it really is what these guys are saying it is. I've been wanting a Nintendo system like this since The GameCube. As an added bonus, it would seem like the Wii U gamepad should work as a second controller (but not in one player mode) IF the NX is a handheld/console hybrid. That's a very big if though, because we have seen signs of a possible handheld being developed by Nintendo. Who knows how this will turn out? Can't wait to see though.


DylanMcKaig : Yeah, like I said, I'm a PlayStation guy, but I love Nintendo, though I haven't bought into their product since the GameCube as I didn't like how they were going with the Wii and Wii U. However I actually am pretty excited about the NX, I'm just hoping it turns out to be as powerful as these guys are saying it is. I don't care if it uses a tablet, if it's a hybrid, or what it does, so long as it can and does run plenty of third party games. If so, I'm sold.

As for advertising, Nintendo didn't advertise the Wii U much at all (I saw maybe three commercials...or actually two, and one was played twice. lol) and what I saw of them were all geared toward kids, who usually can't buy a console themselves. However, if the focus on power is true, then it would seem they're going all out on appealing to the core gamer audience. I don't expect them to drastically overhaul their image with an M rated Mario (oh gosh, please no xD), but I do hope they take themselves more seriously as a potential device for hardcore gamers as well as kids.

Also, they have caused a massive wave of hype with their early info leak and utter silence following. If they release in 2016 they'll already be riding a huge wave of publicity. I fear most of that hype will be lost before 2017, so hype wise I think they need a 2016 release if they're going to strike while the iron's hot. That's just my two cents though.

Eirinn : You make a lot of great points and really it is hard to disagree with you. My reasoning for thinking that this new system won't be released is this. There's no hype to it at all right now. Like zero. I kind of find it hard to believe that we have heard so little about a system that might be released this year. Companies usually like to hype up their consoles for 6 months MINIMUM after initial announcement for marketing purposes.

I'm thinking that Nintendo is going to show something from that system this year at E3 in June. But I still don't think that gives them enough production and marketing lead in to release by that Christmas shopping season. I'm thinking it makes more sense overall from a production, development and marketing standpoint to wait till Christmas shopping season 2017.

Yeah, I know you're a PlayStation fanboy, haha! I have a soft spot for the PlayStation, too - it was my first console ! What I've depicted, though, isn't necessarily what I want to happen; it's just what I think is going to happen .

I sure HOPE the NX is a handheld/console hybrid! Then I'd be able to play ALL the games )!

Eirinn : They were adverts for the Wii U? When was that? The only adverts I ever saw was Super Mario 3D World and Mario Kart 8.

I don't blame you for not buying into the Wii and Wii U. They targeted the wrong demographic with the Wii. Many people bought it and after a while it collected dust as they weren't much of a gamer themselves. They were a lot of shovelware titles on that system as well which was annoying when trying to find a particular game in a game store (this annoyance caused me to use the likes of Amazon) which is one good thing about the Wii U's lineup of games is that there isn't much shovelware titles (doesn't say much as the Wii U doesn't have a wide selection to choose from in the terms of big budget AAA titles. They are a number of realy good Indie developed games which I think is good for Nintendo).

Jordanv78 : That's true as well. I'm personally worried that the hype might not last two more years though, so I hope they do release it next year. I mean while there's no knowledge of the system to be hyped about, you can't go on a game site without hearing chatter about the NX anymore, so there's definitely going to be a lot of people watching next year at E3 for the unveiling of the NX. Honestly I questioned Iwata for mentioning a new system when he did, but in hindsight I think that may have been his shining moment of genius. It confirmed that Nintendo was staying in the console business AND the mystery has gotten so many people intrigued that it feels like the N64 hype train all over again.

One last thing that bugs me is that supposedly they've scheduled mass production of the NX for early next year. If that's true then they would kind of be wasting money by not waiting for early 2017 as the parts will likely decrease in price. And they already finalized the NX design, so there is no more work to be done on it. Can they sit on it for another two years? I'm so impatient about this though that it's affecting my opinion. lol Half of this is sheer hope.

And honestly, at this point I'll be heartbroken if they wait for 2017. I also hope that Nintendo waits at least six or seven years for the system following it if it really can compete with the PS4 in power and third party support. Give it time to amass a big fan base with people who have no other upcoming systems to buy and become curious as to what all the buzz is about.


NintendoFanKimmy : Yeah, after hearing that last bit of info I told my family "if this is all true, PlayStation and Xbox are in trouble". I think PS4 will be okay simply because it will likely have nearly 30,000,000 customers before the NX releases, and Xbox will survive on fanboys for a generation, but if this becomes the norm, yikes! lol And I've no doubt a system like the NX is being played up to be will have an impact on the PS4 and XB1's sales.

Also if it's anything close to the rumors, I'll be preordering the thing. xD I love my Nintendo games and systems almost as much as my PlayStation games and systems. Little k own fact about Eirinn right there.


DylanMcKaig : Lol Surprising, right? Yeah, I saw precisely two Wii U ads (or maybe three...okay, "precisely" was a bad choice of wording). Both were about kids trying to convince their parents to buy a Wii U. Not the most compelling commercial for a twenty to thirty year old single gamer. Oh and that covers the main group of gamers (minus marital status, because Idk about that part). Nice move, Nintendo. Surely they'll top that with the NX...maybe. Hopefully.

So I'm getting kinda excited to see what Nintendo Shows at e3 of this system. Although I'm kinda bummed about my New 3DS XL being phased out eventually (Was finally a GREAT product) I was never fully onboard with the Wii-U.

Have you seen the buzz revolving around the new controller rumors from Reddit? I honestly don't feel like that's the actual controller, but could be an interesting option. It just looks like someone took the original patent information and 3D printed something to make people go nuts.

http://thenextweb.com/insider/2016/03/23/leaked-nintendo-nx-controller-driving-people-crazy/

Jordanv78 : That controller could actually be real. Seeing how Nintendo has developed controllers since the introduction of the Wii, distancing themselves from the traditional ones, everything can be expected.

I do admit it looks way too futuristic, just like those early "PS4" leaks that have been proved so wrong, but then again, Sony has always remained in the same line while Nintendo is slowly drifting away from what we call "normal" and everything just because they can't make powerful consoles like Sony and Microsoft and so need another way to attract players and innovate, others may say start a revolution, in the videogame sector.

We will see what comes out of this. The E3 will be incredibly interesting, Nintendo for their NX, Sony for their VR that will come out on October and Microsoft... Well, they sure do have something up their sleeve

Jordanv78 : That is really unique, while being exactly the opposite of what anybody wants. OF COURSE THIS IS REAL!

I really hope this isn't the real main controller. What kind of game requires a scroll wheel and two analog sticks? What happened to buttons?

Anyway...If this is real, I hope there are more controller options. But I am gonna trust that Nintendo knows what they're doing with this one. I can't wait to see what they have to say about this baby at E3!

"Apparently this person went on to say that the NX would have "industry leading chips"... this is exactly what Nintendo's position affords them, and it's exactly what they need, many would speculate"

It's definitely what they need. Nintendo's slipped into irrelevancy with the 7th gen. The Wii U has been on it's deathbed since the Xbone and PS4 launched, and the 3DS hasn't performed nearly as well as the DS, nor has it matched the GBA. Unless Nintendo decides to stop focusing on gimmicks and instead make hardware that competes with Sony and Microsoft, this will likely be the last console they release. We'll see how that goes, considering some of the hardware's already leaked. It's unsure if this is the actual controller, or the "handheld" that's rumored to go with the console. All I can say is this: unless the NX is designed to last, and directly compete with the PS4/Xbone, Nintendo is finished as a hardware manufacturer

Image upload: 750x384 totaling 39 KB's.

Jordanv78 : I hadn't seen that. I sincerely hope that isn't the real controller as it would basically be all touch screen controls. Feels too identical to mobile gaming (I hate touch screen "buttons"). It looks really awesome, but it wouldn't be very functional I don't think.

Honestly I've lost interest in the NX because the hype started so early. I really don't expect the NX to make it, sadly. I have a feeling it's too late for Nintendo as a hardware developer to make a recovery. That's a sad thought though. I'm still interested in seeing the NX though, because I wonder what they've been cooking up that they feel is so revolutionary.


EX Palen : That strikethrough tho. xD I agree, already excited for E3!


A user of this : "That is really unique, while being exactly the opposite of what anybody wants. OF COURSE THIS IS REAL!" I must quote this! Lol I hope they go a bit more conventional with their system this time. Now watch them shock us with an all VR system. Not something I would want, but an interesting concept.


Rasengandan2 : I'm inclined to agree. I honestly think they're too far gone. NX will be their swansong. I'm actually thinking of making an opinion article on why the NX will be the curtain call for Nintendo.

EDIT: Typo'd the username. -__-

Eirinn : This sounds great. There's just one issue, though... Let's do some math.

Most powerful console ever made to date + proprietary hardware + 20,000,000 first production run consoles + hybrid hand-held/portable = some wicked sticker shock.... Even if this turns out to be the single greatest, most versatile console ever produced for many years to come, a lot of people are going to stroke out when they see the zeros... Maybe I'm just overly cynical, but those who don't learn from their history are doomed to repeat it, and I have a feeling that this is going to be the next Dreamcast. I really hope I'm wrong though, I get tired of being right all the time. lol

m0ssb3rg935 : Dude you're not being cynical, you're being realistic. Here's the thing: if this thing were more powerful than PS4 PLUS ran as a handheld, that tech alone would cost probably $800 or more right now. No way is all of this stuff true.

Also I agree: Dreamcast is the perfect example. I'm about to put out an article about this and it'll touch on a lot of this same stuff.