Nintendo has not yet released any official information about their upcoming NX system, which is a bit strange considering how much we know about the device thanks to various leaks and patent information.
For example, we know that the NX is going to have detachable controllers, will not be disc-based, will feature digital download options, will be running off of an advanced mobile graphics engine (but will not be as powerful as Sony and Microsoft’s next systems), and it will be primarily designed as a portable device that can be plugged into a TV.
That last part has been the most significant piece of information revealed thus far, as no other home console has ever tried to emphasize portable play to that degree. The question on everyone’s mind, then, is ” Exactly how small is the NX?”
Well, according to a recent insider report, it is believed that the NX will only be slightly thicker than Nintendo’s 3DS XL device. This means it would be about 25 mm thick when the console is folded and about 281 mm (roughly 11 inches) wide when the device is fully opened with the side controllers attached. Given that the 3DS XL is 4.88 inches wide, that means that without the controllers attached, the NX is going to be a relatively small device, but not one you’ll necessarily be able to fit in your pocket.
This same source also claims that the Nintendo NX’s controllers are going to be motion-sensitive (much like the Nintendo Wii) and will feature a vibration option. Interestingly, each controller is also set to feature a share button similar to the one found on PlayStation 4 controllers that will allow users to save and upload footage. This is very strange considering that Nintendo has traditionally looked down on people uploading footage from their games without express permission.
Either that policy is going to change, or Nintendo may be working on their own video service specific to the NX.
Also of note are the rumors that the NX will be a region free device. This means that gamers will be able to purchase a copy of a game from any country (even if they are exclusive to that region) and play it on any NX console. Given that Nintendo is still quite fond of keeping certain games specific to Japan and America, if they are indeed abandoning the region lock, that’s huge news for fans of unique gaming experiences.
