Somewhere, in a Parallel Universe...

[The Lurker]

Suppose there's a parallel universe where the following Nintendo console exists:

The Revolution from this parallel universe has the same hardware as the Wii, but Sony's software* and marketing. So, you'd get the balance board and motion controls, but Bizarro Nintendo's big holiday title this year is:

And suppose that in this same universe, the following Sony console exists:

Of course, the same rules apply. The Sony Play console has the same hardware (Blu-ray, etc.) but Nintendo's software and marketing. In this universe, Bizarro Sony is pushing these two evergreen titles:

Sony and Nintendo fans: Which of these consoles would you buy? How much of a role does the hardware play for you in a buying decision? How much of a role does the software play? Is brand loyalty a factor for you? Does the idea of this alternate marketing excite you or turn you off your favourite console? Would you not buy a console and go with a PC or a 36O (see below) instead?

Microsoft fans: It may seem like I've forgotten you, but in truth, this was not the parallel universe of choice for MS...

Would you still be loyal to the 36O with this branding? Would you not buy a console and go with a PC instead? Would you go with Bizarro Sony or Bizarro Nintendo instead?

PC fans: Would this make you buy any of the above consoles?

 

* Each of the companies would retain the same legacy IP, first and second parties, but produce different titles for this generation. Bizarro Nintendo wouldn't literally have our Sony's software, but philosophically identical software to our Sony and vice versa. Because of past IP, Nintendo might have Mario Gear Solid, while Sony could be pumping out Super Snake Bros. Brawl.