Nintendo's 'Miitomo' coming to iOS in March, pre-registration starts Feb. 17
Nintendo's first smartphone-only app, Miitomo, will launch sometime next month for iOS and Android, with a pre-registration process beginning on Feb. 17, the Japanese game maker announced on Wednesday.
Starting that day people will be able to register for a new Nintendo Account service using email, a social network account, or an existing Nintendo Network ID. Doing so will earn early notification of Miitomo's availability, as well as a special unspecified bonus.
Rather than a true game, Miitomo -- first teased in October -- will actually be a "social experience" based on the Mii avatars featured on Nintendo devices. Users will be prompted to learn more about each other by asking and answering questions. The app should also support sharing photos of Miis, and connecting with a My Nintendo rewards program launching at the same time.
Nintendo is planning to launch five smartphone apps by the end of March 2017. The second of these is still mostly in the shadows, but shouldn't be communications app, and will feature a familiar (though still undisclosed) character.
Nintendo's new mobile efforts are the result of a partnership with developer DeNA, struck in March 2015. The company has been forced to adapt to a rapidly evolving gaming world, as its Wii U console has struggled in sales, and handhelds like the 3DS are being supplanted by phones and tablets for many people. Indeed rumors suggest the company's next console, commonly referred to as the NX, will try to bridge the gap between the mobile and console environments.
Starting that day people will be able to register for a new Nintendo Account service using email, a social network account, or an existing Nintendo Network ID. Doing so will earn early notification of Miitomo's availability, as well as a special unspecified bonus.
Rather than a true game, Miitomo -- first teased in October -- will actually be a "social experience" based on the Mii avatars featured on Nintendo devices. Users will be prompted to learn more about each other by asking and answering questions. The app should also support sharing photos of Miis, and connecting with a My Nintendo rewards program launching at the same time.
Nintendo is planning to launch five smartphone apps by the end of March 2017. The second of these is still mostly in the shadows, but shouldn't be communications app, and will feature a familiar (though still undisclosed) character.
Nintendo's new mobile efforts are the result of a partnership with developer DeNA, struck in March 2015. The company has been forced to adapt to a rapidly evolving gaming world, as its Wii U console has struggled in sales, and handhelds like the 3DS are being supplanted by phones and tablets for many people. Indeed rumors suggest the company's next console, commonly referred to as the NX, will try to bridge the gap between the mobile and console environments.
Comments
They are innovative as f*** and follow no one. They need to improve their 3DS and make it marketable, not wave the white flag to iPhone and iPhoneys. Or Apple should just buy them.
History: I am a huge Nintendo fan. I bring my New 3DS with me everywhere. There's something that's more connected to playing a "real" video game than an iOS game. Most of my phone or iPad games are pick up and play for 10 minute experiences. Digital onscreen touch controls do not replace control pads. I don't care what you say. The technology is not there.
I'm super excited to play Pokemon Go! (But what wrist?! The same as my Apple Watch?!) and hope it has conectability features with the next Pokemon game either on N3DS or the portable NX. As a fan of Nintendo and Apple, I'm absolutely thrilled.
I only wish they'd have signed an exclusive deal with Apple (not a buyout, just a deal). Focusing on one platform (iOS) seems more beneficial for development than iOS and android. Although from a get this product everywhere perspective it makes total sense.
They are very smart with technology but dumb as a rock when it comes to marketing.