Can we put an end to the first-party software "myths" please?

[Dodece]

Nintendo the developer has far too many unfair advantages on their platforms. Were it any other industry you would probably consider it a conflict of interest. Nintendo designs the hardware to meet their needs. They have no licensing fees. They have first access to the hardware. They control the lineup, and they brutally defend their sales. They determine the demographics, and they control the peripherals with an iron fist.

There is nothing wrong with first party support as long as its done in moderation. A console manufacturer must afford third party developers with some consideration. Give them an opportunity. Let them have access to the fan base. Third party developers are fighting an uphill battle against an opponent with all the advantages.

Sony and Microsoft do a decent job of letting everyone eat at the table. Nintendo not so much. They need to stop developing so many titles. They need to leave adequate holes in their lineup. They need to provide better third party support in development kits, and ask for their input as to what they need. They need to hand out opportunities to third party developers.

Strategically it just isn't sound to go up against Nintendo with all of its advantages. You can argue whether the other things are myths or have some basis in reality. The truth is going up against Nintendo is like facing a giant. You have little chance, and Nintendo isn't going to really give you one.

I honestly will ask you which platform would you prefer to develop a game for. Which platform will give you the greatest opportunity. Leave your fanaticism at the door, and behave like you have no loyalty to any platform. Would you rather go up against Nintendo, or would you rather find room on one or two of the other platforms. Given that Sony and Microsoft will happily make room for you, and will probably try to make your product a success. Whereas Nintendo will not care as long as their bimonthly twenty year franchise titles sells a million copies.