Episode 108: Talking Points

Sometimes it’s best to see the forest through the trees. In this episode of the Random Nintendo Podcast, we step back from our usual news coverage and game impressions to take a broader look at Nintendo itself. The show first begins with our most anticipated games, which soon segues into an in-depth discussion of whether Nintendo relies too much on nostalgia, from Star Fox Zero to Pokemon Go. The conversation then turns to amiibo as we debate what the figurines’ future holds and whether the toy-to-life bubble will ever burst. We also explore the untapped potential of the Wii U’s GamePad before wrapping the episode with our wish list of must-have NX features.

What do you think of how Nintendo uses nostalgia? What dream NX features do you want to see? Let us know in the comments below! If you liked the episode, consider leaving a review (and subscribing!) on iTunes. Be sure to also follow us on Twitter @RandomNintendo so you don’t miss the return of our regular news and game coverage next episode.

Below, we’ve also included a breakdown of the topics and games discussed in this episode. Each lists a time stamp so you can easily find the segments that most interest you. Enjoy!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:50:49 — 51.1MB)

Please note that this episode was recorded prior to the delay of Star Fox Zero.

Topics

• [0:01] The Games We’re Anticipating
• [0:17 – 0:39] Nintendo and Nostalgia: Do they rely on it too much?
• [0:27] The Mechanics of Pokemon Go
• [0:40 – 1:14] The State of amiibo and What’s Next
• [1:06] Will The Toy-To-Life Bubble Pop?
• [1:14] The Untapped Potential of the Wii U GamePad
• [1:22 – 1:47] Our NX Feature Wishlist
• [1:37] Is the New Apple TV a Threat?

Games

• [0:01] Q.U.B.E: Director’s Cut (Official Site)
• [0:03] Xenoblade Chronicles X (Nintendo.com Game Page)
• [0:07] Star Fox Zero (Nintendo.com Game Page)
• [0:19] Pikmin 3 (Official Site)
• [0:27] Pokemon Go (Pokemon.com Game Page)
• [0:35] Genei Ibun Roku #FE (IGN Game Page)
• [0:49] Shovel Knight (Official Site)
• [1:05] Chibi-Robo: Zip Lash (Official Site)
• [1:08] Lego Dimensions (Official Site)
• [1:12] Skylanders (Official Site)
• [1:15] The Legend of Zelda Wii U (IGN Game Page)