Miyamoto talks hardcore gamers, promises 'other enhancements'

It seems we staunch Nintendo fans weren't the only ones who were at times a bit concerned as we neared the Wii launch. Even Miyamoto wasn't sure that the system really could offer something for everyone. What worried him? The hardcore gaming element. That was even one reason behind the Wii Sports packin -- not only would the game tempt nongamers, but they hoped that hardcore gamers as well would pick up a Wiimote and enjoy the simplicity of Wii Sports.

Great, so we've got the hardcore contingent. After Wii Sports and a few other titles, depending on personal preference, what do we have to offer? Part of that problem is that companies are still adjusting to the Wii. Miyamoto pointed out that the sensor bar and control scheme is perfect for a lot of "hardcore" fare (read: shooters), but where are these games? Languishing somewhere in development, most likely. While developers struggle to find those perfect new ideas for the revolutionary console, we have to deal with ports ... and sometimes, that's not all bad. But don't despair, for there is a light at the end of the tunnel -- Miyamoto said, "There are also other enhancements to the Wii interface and developments being planned that are going to really make games for hardcore players a lot more fun and interesting."

Let the speculation begin.

Depending on your point of view, either the best or worst part of this is that Miyamoto is very vague about this magical future hardcore-gamer-friendly thing. It could be an actual add-on, like a headset (maybe unlikely, but we'll get to that), a shift away from the DS's friend codes, or a change to the interface itself, like new channels or customization options. We figure the friend code change is most likely, but there were some telling remarks near the end of the interview. He says that Nintendo is definitely interested in online gaming, but not necessarily online gaming as we know it. Miyamoto mentioned possible new channels, and said, "I think that will give rise to more social-based communities including those created by users, which is going to be a very interesting and exciting area for us to explore."

Social communities? We've speculated on that before. That, coupled with the remarks above, could indicate not only a move to a more user-friendly code system, but hey, even a headset. Cooperation is easier with chat, and perhaps Nintendo gamers will not spew forth heretofore unknown levels of vitriol such as we've heard on Xbox Live. Of course, that's probably a pipe dream. And 'social community' can mean a lot of things. It may even mean we'll get some sort of ranking system, or even something similar to achievements.

Of course, some folks hear the words "hardcore gamer" and immediately thing of tech upgrades, graphics, and HD. And while any changes in that direction would certainly be a nod in the direction of the hardcore contingent, as they've been the noisiest concerning the Wii's graphics, it doesn't sound like that'll be the case from Miyamoto's remarks. He specifically mentioned online gaming, and we know it's high on the list for most gamers, so it's our assumption that the 'enhancements' will be of the networking variety.

In the end, all this chatter about what could be is certainly interesting, but what about the things we already know about? It could be said that what hardcore gamers want, more than anything, are games to play. Not just any games, either, but the big three: Metroid Prime 3, Super Mario Galaxy, and Super Smash Bros. Brawl. Give us those -- or even firm dates for those -- and we won't be too fussed when it comes to waiting for the other developers to catch up, and we won't be as concerned about microphones and dongles.

We definitely want to see a change to friend codes, though. Y'know, if we were idly wishing.