Nintendo to launch NX console in March 2017

We don’t know what it looks like. We don’t know how it plays. But now, we finally know when Nintendo’s next system will be launching: March 2017. The company’s mysterious “NX” platform was first teased more than a year ago, during an investor presentation that also outlined its smartphone strategy. We’ve heard plenty of rumors since then, including a console-handheld hybrid, a system more powerful than the PS4 and Xbox One, and a console with a bizarre touchscreen controller (including faked photos) based on Nintendo patents. The house of Mario has stayed quiet throughout, stating only that it will talk about the console later in 2016.

The next generation of #Nintendo is coming March 2017! #NX pic.twitter.com/u4KFIRJedw

— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) April 27, 2016

What’s crystal clear, however, is Nintendo’s need for a new, successful console. The Wii U has been a disaster, despite offering high quality games like Splatoon, Super Mario 3D World and Bayonetta 2. The GamePad never resonated with players and the console’s reduced horsepower — at least in comparison to the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 — means that third-party support is now almost non-existent. The 3DS, while successful, is also starting to show its age. To stay relevant and turn around its recently dismal financial earnings, Nintendo needs a new system to act as a foundation. As such, there’s a lot riding on the NX right now.

Source: Nintendo