Dude, come on lol! With all due respect = you're giving an example of alternating co-op gameplay (not simultaneous). And on top of that, the gameplay you're describing sounds very, very boring. "One player moves a canon to the right, and then the other moves it to the left." Sounds nauseating, totally not the same experience as Moon Patrol, I'm sorry. Terrible comparison = Apples and oranges.
In Moon Patrol, there is no alternating. There is no one person moving a canon and some else shooting out of it like you describe. You're controlling the buggie (tank, whatever it is) in real time and any player at any time can activate their assigned function (jump, shoot up, shoot forward, move.) I thought it was really fun and had a great time with it!
I'd say don't knock til you try it but if what I'm describing doesn't appeal to you, there's a world full of game consoles with games that may appeal to you.
"BTW Intellivision CEO said they lose money if the price is $250 so it has to be raised, anywhere up to $350, and the game prices will rise 50-100% too."
Yeah, I know. Every console manufacturer usually takes a hit on hardware and usually hopes to recoup on the software. I hope they keep the price no higher than $250. I would even suggest removing one controller if necessary to keep the price at $250. Raise the price on the games, for sure. Making $5 - $10 games $15 to $20 is the better option imo.
And btw, your analog stick comparison to the Amico touch dial makes no sense since the Amico is a machine that will be playing 2-2.5D games. So in an attempt to fix your question, yeah I think the touch dial is superior to playing 2D games than an analog stick, absolutely (less travel, and the dial is just smooth to press and change direction).
If 3D games ever start coming to the Amico, I'll be sure to give my thoughts on how it compares to an analog stick.
Hmm, I'm not sure if you trying to ask me a legitimate question or if you're callin' me out with that post. Regardless, I'll take the bait.
You can also shoot forward in Moon Patrol for Amico as well so... that makes 4 functions total (jump, shoot forward, shoot up, and move the vehicle). And yeah, I had a lot of fun with it. In AstroSmash for Amico, you can only move side to side and shoot upwards. Me and my friends had a blast with it (psst.... it's 4 players now!). Very intense especially after level 3
If the Amico doesn't appeal to you then I'm hopeful you can find better things to do with your precious time other than trying to discredit someone else's positive hands-on experience with the machine. Your post reads as if you have a problem with me enjoying my time with the Amico. I really don't know what to tell you but I'm certainly not going to apologize for enjoying all the games I played.
If my positive experience bothers you that much, I'd suggest seeking the help you need and start with maybe getting more sunshine, opening a window?
Yeah but the old Moon Patrol has not aged well. The Amico version is much better and features a multiplayer mode where each player controls a different function on the vehicle. Much much improved
« I'm not basing it just on my daughter. I'm basing it on the regular Mario Kart/Party nights we have with multiple ages in my house. Wario Ware lately actually. »
Even still, this small group of children on party night doesn’t represent every child. The world is a much bigger place outside of your living room.
Well that’s certainly unfortunate that you feel that way about my post. Like stated previously, it is challenging to truly convey my hands-on experience with the Amico since I know what it was like for myself to be very skeptical about the console’s appeal up until I played it. It needs to be experienced in order to be truly understood.
If I was unable to communicate in my posts the value of owning a gaming console designed to play accessible, easy to pick up and play mutilplayer centered, 2-2.5DD games focused on family entertainment then perhaps you either don’t represent the intended demographic or it’s just not possible for you to mentally grasp its appeal.
But it really doesn’t matter at the end of the day. If WarioWare and Mario Party is all you need than that’s ok too. I can see value in owning both the Switch and Amico 🤷🏽♂️
"@Turbo857 genuinely curious, what potential do you see? I have seen nothing that screams new or innovative or original. What separates Amico from other consoles that you can buy for the same price in your eyes?"
Admittedly, the Amico is a console that needs to be played in order to be fully understood. But to answer your question, I'll list its unique features that I appreciated during my time with the console.
1. I believe the dial disc pad to be a game changer. It is more precise and accurate than a traditional dpad. 64 individual inputs as opposed to 8 and it just feels really cool to control with imo. It really shines when playing intense shooters like Astrosmash, Rigid Force Redux, Flying Tigers or even something simpler like Shark Shark.
2. The graphics and functionality of the controller changes with each game you play. It's fascinating to see how it changes function every time you play a different game.
3. The controller can seamlessly change orientations to accommodate right hand and/or left hand dominant gamers. It can also be played by being held vertically or horizontally.
4. The majority of the games made for the console will have multiplayer or co-op modes. So it's perfectly suited for parties.
5. Again, as a parent, I appreciated how I was able to just jump from game to game, quickly start it up and click with it easily without tutorials.
6. The motion controls demonstrated to me in games I didn't get to play, like pool and games that I did play, like Eval Knievel where fun and smartly implemented. They never felt tacked on or unnecessary.
7. I'm sure the running theme here by now is the controller. So one more thing, it's deceptively light, feature rich, simple and approachable. Another thing I appreciated.
True. A lot of parents won't buy multiple consoles. But why do they have to be wealthier or pushover parents? Amico games should range from $6 - $30. As a parent you'll never have to worry about shelling out $60 a pop. So I would think managing a Switch, PlayStation or Xbox library will cost you more in the long run.
How about just busy parents who rather have a console in the house that requires much less of a learning curve (on average) to access, pick up and enjoy a game? It's great that there are several parents that were able to get their children started on the Switch. But what they don't disclose is how much time was invested to guide and assist these children to teach them to turn on the console, put it in sleep mode, restart, power down, navigate menus, sync controllers, switch back and forth between game configurations, find the game they want to play, exit the NSO app, and select another game with that app, etc.. Not every gamer parent has the free time to help shorten that learning curve. Near instant pick up and play accessibly has its advantages.
Um, news flash. I never said kids were stupid that have trouble with the Switch. So I don't appreciate your attempt to put words in my mouth. The examples I used in my observations of kids struggling to navigate using the Switch and grasp certain games were my nephews... and I would never call them stupid. They both speak 3 languages and are very well travelled for their age.
And while I appreciate you sharing your daughter's experience with grasping the Switch... she doesn't represent every child that's every played with the device. Unless you're arrogant enough to believe that your daughter represents every single would-be child gamer in the world. I trust that you're not that short sighted.
As I've said several times in my comments, yes there are plenty of kids that own and play with Switch. I just see a glaring, obvious room for improvement for accessibility and ease of use categories that creates a void which can be certainly be filled by another console that's focused on doing just that.
That's all I'm saying. The floor is yours so feel free to reply with further misinterpretations of my commentary.
Thanks for sharing. Yeah, I read this one before. CEO says the Amico's price "could" go up so it's not yet definitive that the price will increase. I don't think it should because obviously it puts the Amico in direct competition with the Switch and it's 2,000 + game library.
If they want more profit they should look to increasing the price of the games by 50% instead imo
I'm not arguing that the Switch can't be enjoyed by children. The console is somewhat serviceable for first time child gamers, but I just don't think the console is ideal for first time child gamers. There is plenty of room for improvement and our differing experiences interacting and teaching children to use the console illustrates that there is an accessibility issue that some commenters on here refuse to acknowledge. Possibly it's simply because there is no present existing alternative to help illustrate otherwise.
But your comment revealed to things to me. #1 you said despite the fact your kids can play the 3D games you mentioned, they won't finish the games. That tells me the game isn't perfectly suited for them. There's room in the market for a more approachable and accessible gaming ecosystem.
But kudos to you as a parent for being patient and helping them get into those games.
Fair assessment. You've mentioned some facts and made some good points. There have been several delays and as of right now, we don't yet have a definitive price or a solid release date which will be a credible cause of concern until they are revealed.
However, I represent a Youtube channel that consists of 5 cohosts who have all played the Amico at an event in July 2021. That being said, I want to dispel the inaccurate/false reporting surrounding this seemingly reoccurring critique regarding imaginary input lag in the games. Between the 5 of us, we've played Space Strikers, Moon Patrol, Astrosmash, Hot Wheels, Skiing, Flying Tigers, Shark Shark, Dynablasters, Eval Knievel, Rigid Force Redux, and Emoji Charades. There was no input lag, whatsoever experienced during our time with the console. Even Youtuber Smash JT (a good friend of ours) who has been critical of Intellivision as of late, didn't report input lag from his experience playing the games.
Also, 2 of the games we've played which reflect ports, Eval Knievel and Rigid Force Redux, respectively, have Amico exclusive multiplayer modes. So cookie cutter port reporting alluding to the contrary, is inaccurate. If a ports appears on the Amico, it's safe to assume it'll have an exclusive feature.
The only reason parents are using Switch's to introduce gaming to their children is because Nintendo is the most kid friendly modern gaming console manufacturer out of the big three. So yeah, of course there are games on there that can be played by kids. But there is plenty of room for improvement for ease of use and accessibility which the Amico will provide if it makes it into stores.
As right now my daughter is 2. Yes, there is Minecraft and games like Lego StarWars, Marvel, etc. that appeal and can be played fine by kids. But just because it's serviceable doesn't mean the Switch is an ideal kids console. That's awesome your child is 8 and can't wait for Kirby. But Kirby is a $60 game.
How many parents really wanna pay $60 a pop for a new game for their 3-7 year old who probably won't finish the entire games. Again it's great your 8 year old is probably a great player but I've seen kids up to 11 years old struggle with navigating and playing the console. That said, there is room for improvement in the accessibly department for first time players imo.
My sources have lead me to believe that the price is still targeting $250. If you have a source that points to a definitive higher price, I'd appreciate a link.
I'm going to have to respectfully disagree with the no finished games or hardware remark. Astrosmash, Moon Patrol, Ridged Force Redux, Flying Tigers, Eval Knievel, Space Strikers, Dynablasters, Shark Shark, were very polished when I played back in July. I'm also sure the cardboard games at the very least are finished as well (it'd be strange if it ain't). So, as was stated in the unboxing, the hardware is done and they're games on deck. They just gotta get into stores and my fingers are crossed cuz I want the red Amico
Happy to hear your year old is waiting for Kirby but if she's able to move him in a 3D space and understand the game's objectives without much help, I doubt that's her first game console.
Both are good options but because it's portable, flimsy, expensive and features annoying controller syncing, I think the Switch makes a bad first impression for a first time gamer and not suited for most children under maybe 11-12, in my opinion. Of course there are parents with younger children who play Switch but I don't think the console is well suited for most small children playing games for the first time.
The Evercade is cool, cheap and the better option of the 2. But ya know at the end of the day we're just talking about old ass, retro arcade games. Some are good but some don't hold up as well. A lot of those games can use the retro reimagined approach that Amico is doing for a lot of Intellivision classics. I never liked AstroSmash, Moon Patrol or Shark Shark on the original Intellivision. But on the Amico, I enjoyed my time and had a lot of fun playing all of them. Also, there's nothing remotely unique or game changing about the Evercade's controller. In defense, it doesn't need to be for what it's trying to do. But I see the potential in the Amico and hope it makes it out the door.
Well, reports I've read hint at a $250 price point. For six pack in games and two fully featured pack in controllers, I'd say that's a good deal. Yes, you can get a Switch for $50 more but I'm not comfortable with my child using it as a starting console. My Switch has taken a beating in the 5 years I've owned and a $300 portable device that can be easily dropped and damaged by a small child is not smart nor economical in my opinion. It makes more sense to have them starting out on a stationary non portable device for games imo.
I think at $200 the Amico will fly off the shelves if properly marketed upon release. But $299 is a bit too high.
Yes, the Switch has family friendly games and indie games. But you have to literally search through thousands of games to find them. I just came back from vacation and introduced two of my nephews (ages 6 and 11) to the Switch for the first time. I have a huge library but was hard pressed to find something they could get into. After playing a bunch of games in my library, they loved NES Soccer (via Nintendo Switch Online; NES) and Mario Kart 8. Games like Kung Fu Heroes, Super Mario 3D World, Super Mario Bros and Streets of Rage 4 were too challenging for them to grasp. An exclusive family centered, accessible, pick up and play gaming ecosystem is needed.
Some people might say, NSO is a great place to start and you'd be correct. But starting some games is a pain in single joy con mode (requiring the select button or plus button plus SR at the time). Even backing out of a game in NSO app to go to the next mode is annoying. Not great for small children I'm sorry.
And don't even get me started on controller syncing and going back and forth between single to double joy con mode. There is certainly room and a market for the simplicity that will be offered by the Amico if it makes it to retail (fingers crossed).
Simple, affordable, family entertainment. It's a console perfectly suited for families to have fun playing games together with their children. It's also a perfect console to ease kids and first time players into the world of gaming.
As a father and parent eager to introduce video games to my small daughter, this is right up my alley.
The games didn’t flop, the Sega Saturn did. They only printed like 3K copies since Dreamcast was on the horizon and Saturn was already dead on arrive. Panzer Dragoon Saga never stood a chance at success
It’s astonishing how reluctant Sega remains to give us a remake and full translation of what’s arguably the greatest SRPG ever made with all 3 scenarios of Shining Force 3. Thé story and excellent fan translations already exist. Considering Fire Emblem’s popularity as well as games like Wargroove, Tiny Metal and the incoming remakes of Advance Wars 1 and 2, you’d think this would be a no brainer for Sega. Or should we blame it on Sammy instead? The plot thickens…
Um no. You’re missing my point. 2 single joy cons cannot accommodate multiplayer gameplay for all multiplayer games on the Switch console. Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3 and Children of Morta are among the best multiplayer games available on the Switch that cannot be played with a single joy con. So a single joy con is not considered a “full” controller. The Amico comes with 2 “full” controllers out of the box to accommodate multiplayer gaming for all its games immediately upon purchase. Your NES controller examples would fall under “additional purchase” after a customer already pays “$300 for the price of admission. So those NES controllers aren’t “out of the box”.
Ah, Dolphin Quest looks pretty intriguing. Admittedly, I’m not biased. I actually played 10+ Amico games and loved what I played. There are a lot of naysayers in this comment section who’d change their opinions if they actually got the chance to play the Amico. It’s especially gonna be a hit with parents who don’t want to burdened with forking over $60 a pop for a single game and don’t want to spend ours searching for games that are suitable for their kids. I predict success for the Amico and I’ll be picking up a Red one.
At $250 you get 2 controllers and 6 free games. The consoles you mentioned just give you the console and one controller (and no… a single joy con should not be considered a single standard controller) for the price of entry w/no games. And after you pay the price of entry for the Amico, the games are $9.99 (digital) and $19.99 (physical). For a parent like myself, that sounds like pretty affordable, interactive entertainment for the family.
Lol, run circles around me? Depends on the game. Smash bros. no, Call of Duty, maybe.
You completely misunderstood where I was coming from.
To say that a Switch is as unintimidating as an NES to say a 5 year old getting into gaming for the first time, is just plain crazy. The NES doesn't have analog sticks. I think a child from ages 5-9 getting into gaming for the first time may struggle first with 3D gaming.
Of course today's kids can eventually adapt to 3D games with varying degrees of complexity. But these aren't first time gamers we're talking about. Sure you can have parents pick out games they think will be suitable for their kids on any existing console.
However, the point is parents will have to dig through big libraries and spend time finding the games that are good for their kids. With the Amico, you won't have to worry about that because all the games for the console are focused on that demographic. You can't deny there is a convenience there.
There will be a user friendly interface and an appealing first time gaming accessibly that other consoles just don't have. That's all I'm saying. I think the Amico will really appeal to parents who wish to introduce gaming to their children for the first time.
I will most definitely be buying this console. I think a main strength of the Amico will be its ability to fit nicely as a child's first intro into gaming while sharing their interactive experiences with friends and family.
When you look at consoles like the Switch, Xboxes and Playstations, these consoles aren't targeted for children between the ages of 4-12 or even 5-15 really. They are for more experienced gamers who are used to the complex gameplay associated with multi-button controllers, load/install delays, high end graphics, and cinematic solo experiences.
The 3DS may be more of an intro console but its library is diverse and its handheld form is most suited to an isolated, solo gaming experience.
With the Amico there are no open-world, solo gaming experiences. Every game is either co-op or multiplayer and the games it plays will leverage the simplicity of the Intellivision era. Easy to play and non intimidating. I don't see why it would need to pull people away from a Switch when it's targeting a younger, exclusively multiplayer-centric demographic.
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Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@flojomojo
Dude, come on lol! With all due respect = you're giving an example of alternating co-op gameplay (not simultaneous). And on top of that, the gameplay you're describing sounds very, very boring. "One player moves a canon to the right, and then the other moves it to the left." Sounds nauseating, totally not the same experience as Moon Patrol, I'm sorry. Terrible comparison = Apples and oranges.
In Moon Patrol, there is no alternating. There is no one person moving a canon and some else shooting out of it like you describe. You're controlling the buggie (tank, whatever it is) in real time and any player at any time can activate their assigned function (jump, shoot up, shoot forward, move.) I thought it was really fun and had a great time with it!
I'd say don't knock til you try it but if what I'm describing doesn't appeal to you, there's a world full of game consoles with games that may appeal to you.
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@rnr
"BTW Intellivision CEO said they lose money if the price is $250 so it has to be raised, anywhere up to $350, and the game prices will rise 50-100% too."
Yeah, I know. Every console manufacturer usually takes a hit on hardware and usually hopes to recoup on the software. I hope they keep the price no higher than $250. I would even suggest removing one controller if necessary to keep the price at $250. Raise the price on the games, for sure. Making $5 - $10 games $15 to $20 is the better option imo.
And btw, your analog stick comparison to the Amico touch dial makes no sense since the Amico is a machine that will be playing 2-2.5D games. So in an attempt to fix your question, yeah I think the touch dial is superior to playing 2D games than an analog stick, absolutely (less travel, and the dial is just smooth to press and change direction).
If 3D games ever start coming to the Amico, I'll be sure to give my thoughts on how it compares to an analog stick.
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@rnr
Hmm, I'm not sure if you trying to ask me a legitimate question or if you're callin' me out with that post. Regardless, I'll take the bait.
You can also shoot forward in Moon Patrol for Amico as well so... that makes 4 functions total (jump, shoot forward, shoot up, and move the vehicle). And yeah, I had a lot of fun with it. In AstroSmash for Amico, you can only move side to side and shoot upwards. Me and my friends had a blast with it (psst.... it's 4 players now!). Very intense especially after level 3
If the Amico doesn't appeal to you then I'm hopeful you can find better things to do with your precious time other than trying to discredit someone else's positive hands-on experience with the machine. Your post reads as if you have a problem with me enjoying my time with the Amico. I really don't know what to tell you but I'm certainly not going to apologize for enjoying all the games I played.
If my positive experience bothers you that much, I'd suggest seeking the help you need and start with maybe getting more sunshine, opening a window?
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@Specter_of-the_OLED
Yeah but the old Moon Patrol has not aged well. The Amico version is much better and features a multiplayer mode where each player controls a different function on the vehicle. Much much improved
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@SpringDivorce
« I'm not basing it just on my daughter. I'm basing it on the regular Mario Kart/Party nights we have with multiple ages in my house. Wario Ware lately actually. »
Even still, this small group of children on party night doesn’t represent every child. The world is a much bigger place outside of your living room.
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@SpringDivorce
Well that’s certainly unfortunate that you feel that way about my post. Like stated previously, it is challenging to truly convey my hands-on experience with the Amico since I know what it was like for myself to be very skeptical about the console’s appeal up until I played it. It needs to be experienced in order to be truly understood.
If I was unable to communicate in my posts the value of owning a gaming console designed to play accessible, easy to pick up and play mutilplayer centered, 2-2.5DD games focused on family entertainment then perhaps you either don’t represent the intended demographic or it’s just not possible for you to mentally grasp its appeal.
But it really doesn’t matter at the end of the day. If WarioWare and Mario Party is all you need than that’s ok too. I can see value in owning both the Switch and Amico 🤷🏽♂️
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@Synthatron_Prime
"@Turbo857 genuinely curious, what potential do you see? I have seen nothing that screams new or innovative or original. What separates Amico from other consoles that you can buy for the same price in your eyes?"
Admittedly, the Amico is a console that needs to be played in order to be fully understood. But to answer your question, I'll list its unique features that I appreciated during my time with the console.
1. I believe the dial disc pad to be a game changer. It is more precise and accurate than a traditional dpad. 64 individual inputs as opposed to 8 and it just feels really cool to control with imo. It really shines when playing intense shooters like Astrosmash, Rigid Force Redux, Flying Tigers or even something simpler like Shark Shark.
2. The graphics and functionality of the controller changes with each game you play. It's fascinating to see how it changes function every time you play a different game.
3. The controller can seamlessly change orientations to accommodate right hand and/or left hand dominant gamers. It can also be played by being held vertically or horizontally.
4. The majority of the games made for the console will have multiplayer or co-op modes. So it's perfectly suited for parties.
5. Again, as a parent, I appreciated how I was able to just jump from game to game, quickly start it up and click with it easily without tutorials.
6. The motion controls demonstrated to me in games I didn't get to play, like pool and games that I did play, like Eval Knievel where fun and smartly implemented. They never felt tacked on or unnecessary.
7. I'm sure the running theme here by now is the controller. So one more thing, it's deceptively light, feature rich, simple and approachable. Another thing I appreciated.
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@MostHandsieBoy
True. A lot of parents won't buy multiple consoles. But why do they have to be wealthier or pushover parents? Amico games should range from $6 - $30. As a parent you'll never have to worry about shelling out $60 a pop. So I would think managing a Switch, PlayStation or Xbox library will cost you more in the long run.
How about just busy parents who rather have a console in the house that requires much less of a learning curve (on average) to access, pick up and enjoy a game? It's great that there are several parents that were able to get their children started on the Switch. But what they don't disclose is how much time was invested to guide and assist these children to teach them to turn on the console, put it in sleep mode, restart, power down, navigate menus, sync controllers, switch back and forth between game configurations, find the game they want to play, exit the NSO app, and select another game with that app, etc.. Not every gamer parent has the free time to help shorten that learning curve. Near instant pick up and play accessibly has its advantages.
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@SpringDivorce
Um, news flash. I never said kids were stupid that have trouble with the Switch. So I don't appreciate your attempt to put words in my mouth. The examples I used in my observations of kids struggling to navigate using the Switch and grasp certain games were my nephews... and I would never call them stupid. They both speak 3 languages and are very well travelled for their age.
And while I appreciate you sharing your daughter's experience with grasping the Switch... she doesn't represent every child that's every played with the device. Unless you're arrogant enough to believe that your daughter represents every single would-be child gamer in the world. I trust that you're not that short sighted.
As I've said several times in my comments, yes there are plenty of kids that own and play with Switch. I just see a glaring, obvious room for improvement for accessibility and ease of use categories that creates a void which can be certainly be filled by another console that's focused on doing just that.
That's all I'm saying. The floor is yours so feel free to reply with further misinterpretations of my commentary.
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@Toy_Link
Thanks for sharing. Yeah, I read this one before. CEO says the Amico's price "could" go up so it's not yet definitive that the price will increase. I don't think it should because obviously it puts the Amico in direct competition with the Switch and it's 2,000 + game library.
If they want more profit they should look to increasing the price of the games by 50% instead imo
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@MostHandsieBoy
I'm not arguing that the Switch can't be enjoyed by children. The console is somewhat serviceable for first time child gamers, but I just don't think the console is ideal for first time child gamers. There is plenty of room for improvement and our differing experiences interacting and teaching children to use the console illustrates that there is an accessibility issue that some commenters on here refuse to acknowledge. Possibly it's simply because there is no present existing alternative to help illustrate otherwise.
But your comment revealed to things to me. #1 you said despite the fact your kids can play the 3D games you mentioned, they won't finish the games. That tells me the game isn't perfectly suited for them. There's room in the market for a more approachable and accessible gaming ecosystem.
But kudos to you as a parent for being patient and helping them get into those games.
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@JasmineDragon
Fair assessment. You've mentioned some facts and made some good points. There have been several delays and as of right now, we don't yet have a definitive price or a solid release date which will be a credible cause of concern until they are revealed.
However, I represent a Youtube channel that consists of 5 cohosts who have all played the Amico at an event in July 2021. That being said, I want to dispel the inaccurate/false reporting surrounding this seemingly reoccurring critique regarding imaginary input lag in the games. Between the 5 of us, we've played Space Strikers, Moon Patrol, Astrosmash, Hot Wheels, Skiing, Flying Tigers, Shark Shark, Dynablasters, Eval Knievel, Rigid Force Redux, and Emoji Charades. There was no input lag, whatsoever experienced during our time with the console. Even Youtuber Smash JT (a good friend of ours) who has been critical of Intellivision as of late, didn't report input lag from his experience playing the games.
Also, 2 of the games we've played which reflect ports, Eval Knievel and Rigid Force Redux, respectively, have Amico exclusive multiplayer modes. So cookie cutter port reporting alluding to the contrary, is inaccurate. If a ports appears on the Amico, it's safe to assume it'll have an exclusive feature.
The only reason parents are using Switch's to introduce gaming to their children is because Nintendo is the most kid friendly modern gaming console manufacturer out of the big three. So yeah, of course there are games on there that can be played by kids. But there is plenty of room for improvement for ease of use and accessibility which the Amico will provide if it makes it into stores.
As right now my daughter is 2. Yes, there is Minecraft and games like Lego StarWars, Marvel, etc. that appeal and can be played fine by kids. But just because it's serviceable doesn't mean the Switch is an ideal kids console. That's awesome your child is 8 and can't wait for Kirby. But Kirby is a $60 game.
How many parents really wanna pay $60 a pop for a new game for their 3-7 year old who probably won't finish the entire games. Again it's great your 8 year old is probably a great player but I've seen kids up to 11 years old struggle with navigating and playing the console. That said, there is room for improvement in the accessibly department for first time players imo.
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@SpringDivorce
My sources have lead me to believe that the price is still targeting $250. If you have a source that points to a definitive higher price, I'd appreciate a link.
I'm going to have to respectfully disagree with the no finished games or hardware remark. Astrosmash, Moon Patrol, Ridged Force Redux, Flying Tigers, Eval Knievel, Space Strikers, Dynablasters, Shark Shark, were very polished when I played back in July. I'm also sure the cardboard games at the very least are finished as well (it'd be strange if it ain't). So, as was stated in the unboxing, the hardware is done and they're games on deck. They just gotta get into stores and my fingers are crossed cuz I want the red Amico
Happy to hear your year old is waiting for Kirby but if she's able to move him in a 3D space and understand the game's objectives without much help, I doubt that's her first game console.
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@JasmineDragon
Both are good options but because it's portable, flimsy, expensive and features annoying controller syncing, I think the Switch makes a bad first impression for a first time gamer and not suited for most children under maybe 11-12, in my opinion. Of course there are parents with younger children who play Switch but I don't think the console is well suited for most small children playing games for the first time.
The Evercade is cool, cheap and the better option of the 2. But ya know at the end of the day we're just talking about old ass, retro arcade games. Some are good but some don't hold up as well. A lot of those games can use the retro reimagined approach that Amico is doing for a lot of Intellivision classics. I never liked AstroSmash, Moon Patrol or Shark Shark on the original Intellivision. But on the Amico, I enjoyed my time and had a lot of fun playing all of them. Also, there's nothing remotely unique or game changing about the Evercade's controller. In defense, it doesn't need to be for what it's trying to do. But I see the potential in the Amico and hope it makes it out the door.
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@Zenszulu
Well, reports I've read hint at a $250 price point. For six pack in games and two fully featured pack in controllers, I'd say that's a good deal. Yes, you can get a Switch for $50 more but I'm not comfortable with my child using it as a starting console. My Switch has taken a beating in the 5 years I've owned and a $300 portable device that can be easily dropped and damaged by a small child is not smart nor economical in my opinion. It makes more sense to have them starting out on a stationary non portable device for games imo.
I think at $200 the Amico will fly off the shelves if properly marketed upon release. But $299 is a bit too high.
Yes, the Switch has family friendly games and indie games. But you have to literally search through thousands of games to find them. I just came back from vacation and introduced two of my nephews (ages 6 and 11) to the Switch for the first time. I have a huge library but was hard pressed to find something they could get into. After playing a bunch of games in my library, they loved NES Soccer (via Nintendo Switch Online; NES) and Mario Kart 8. Games like Kung Fu Heroes, Super Mario 3D World, Super Mario Bros and Streets of Rage 4 were too challenging for them to grasp. An exclusive family centered, accessible, pick up and play gaming ecosystem is needed.
Some people might say, NSO is a great place to start and you'd be correct. But starting some games is a pain in single joy con mode (requiring the select button or plus button plus SR at the time). Even backing out of a game in NSO app to go to the next mode is annoying. Not great for small children I'm sorry.
And don't even get me started on controller syncing and going back and forth between single to double joy con mode. There is certainly room and a market for the simplicity that will be offered by the Amico if it makes it to retail (fingers crossed).
Re: Intellivision Releases An Amico Unboxing, Showcases A Functioning System
@Zenszulu
Simple, affordable, family entertainment. It's a console perfectly suited for families to have fun playing games together with their children. It's also a perfect console to ease kids and first time players into the world of gaming.
As a father and parent eager to introduce video games to my small daughter, this is right up my alley.
Re: We're Getting A New Shining Force Game, But Of Course There's A Catch
@ShadowofTwilight22
The games didn’t flop, the Sega Saturn did. They only printed like 3K copies since Dreamcast was on the horizon and Saturn was already dead on arrive. Panzer Dragoon Saga never stood a chance at success
Re: We're Getting A New Shining Force Game, But Of Course There's A Catch
It’s astonishing how reluctant Sega remains to give us a remake and full translation of what’s arguably the greatest SRPG ever made with all 3 scenarios of Shining Force 3. Thé story and excellent fan translations already exist. Considering Fire Emblem’s popularity as well as games like Wargroove, Tiny Metal and the incoming remakes of Advance Wars 1 and 2, you’d think this would be a no brainer for Sega. Or should we blame it on Sammy instead? The plot thickens…
Re: Intellivision's Wii-Like Amico Console Gets Delayed For A Third Time
@Specter_of-the_OLED
Um no. You’re missing my point. 2 single joy cons cannot accommodate multiplayer gameplay for all multiplayer games on the Switch console. Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3 and Children of Morta are among the best multiplayer games available on the Switch that cannot be played with a single joy con. So a single joy con is not considered a “full” controller. The Amico comes with 2 “full” controllers out of the box to accommodate multiplayer gaming for all its games immediately upon purchase. Your NES controller examples would fall under “additional purchase” after a customer already pays “$300 for the price of admission. So those NES controllers aren’t “out of the box”.
Re: Intellivision's Wii-Like Amico Console Gets Delayed For A Third Time
@edannunziata
Ah, Dolphin Quest looks pretty intriguing. Admittedly, I’m not biased. I actually played 10+ Amico games and loved what I played. There are a lot of naysayers in this comment section who’d change their opinions if they actually got the chance to play the Amico. It’s especially gonna be a hit with parents who don’t want to burdened with forking over $60 a pop for a single game and don’t want to spend ours searching for games that are suitable for their kids. I predict success for the Amico and I’ll be picking up a Red one.
Re: Intellivision's Wii-Like Amico Console Gets Delayed For A Third Time
@AirElephant
At $250 you get 2 controllers and 6 free games. The consoles you mentioned just give you the console and one controller (and no… a single joy con should not be considered a single standard controller) for the price of entry w/no games. And after you pay the price of entry for the Amico, the games are $9.99 (digital) and $19.99 (physical). For a parent like myself, that sounds like pretty affordable, interactive entertainment for the family.
Re: New Game Footage Suggests The Intellivision Amico Will Struggle To Pull Families Away From Switch
@Impaler-D
Lol, run circles around me? Depends on the game. Smash bros. no, Call of Duty, maybe.
You completely misunderstood where I was coming from.
To say that a Switch is as unintimidating as an NES to say a 5 year old getting into gaming for the first time, is just plain crazy. The NES doesn't have analog sticks. I think a child from ages 5-9 getting into gaming for the first time may struggle first with 3D gaming.
Of course today's kids can eventually adapt to 3D games with varying degrees of complexity. But these aren't first time gamers we're talking about. Sure you can have parents pick out games they think will be suitable for their kids on any existing console.
However, the point is parents will have to dig through big libraries and spend time finding the games that are good for their kids. With the Amico, you won't have to worry about that because all the games for the console are focused on that demographic. You can't deny there is a convenience there.
There will be a user friendly interface and an appealing first time gaming accessibly that other consoles just don't have. That's all I'm saying. I think the Amico will really appeal to parents who wish to introduce gaming to their children for the first time.
Re: New Game Footage Suggests The Intellivision Amico Will Struggle To Pull Families Away From Switch
I will most definitely be buying this console. I think a main strength of the Amico will be its ability to fit nicely as a child's first intro into gaming while sharing their interactive experiences with friends and family.
When you look at consoles like the Switch, Xboxes and Playstations, these consoles aren't targeted for children between the ages of 4-12 or even 5-15 really. They are for more experienced gamers who are used to the complex gameplay associated with multi-button controllers, load/install delays, high end graphics, and cinematic solo experiences.
The 3DS may be more of an intro console but its library is diverse and its handheld form is most suited to an isolated, solo gaming experience.
With the Amico there are no open-world, solo gaming experiences. Every game is either co-op or multiplayer and the games it plays will leverage the simplicity of the Intellivision era. Easy to play and non intimidating. I don't see why it would need to pull people away from a Switch when it's targeting a younger, exclusively multiplayer-centric demographic.