Talk:Spore (2008 video game)

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And this is why you ignore resellers

Gamasutra reported on January 29, 2008 that Spore might be delayed til the Fall or Winter of 2008. JAF1970 (talk) 00:33, 30 January 2008 (UTC)

I don't quite understand, are we to ignore Gamasutra, or what? I don't quite understand what you mean by resellers. Kiminatheguardian (talk) 22:53, 30 January 2008 (UTC)

No, we're to ignore Amazon.com, GameStop or whatever resellers post as the release date. JAF1970 (talk) 01:28, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

JAF was making the point that Amazon has been saying for ages that Spore is coming out March 3rd, and now Gamasutra says that it's delayed... again... so people who have been adding the "release" date are wrong. --Samtheboy ^(t/c) 07:09, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

Not that it's delayed, only that it's possibly delayed. Kiminatheguardian (talk) 21:24, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

With EA saying, "Well, it should come out before the holidays"... it's delayed. JAF1970 (talk) 16:37, 1 February 2008 (UTC)

Isn't the Third of March before the holidays (Which holidays?)? Joeking16 (talk) —Preceding comment was added at 23:56, 1 February 2008 (UTC)

It's not March 3rd, shut up about it. When they say the holidays they usually mean Christmas...Kiminatheguardian (talk) 18:59, 2 February 2008 (UTC)

Technically, it's not delayed because there never was a release date to begin with.--Scorp Stanton (talk) 01:06, 5 February 2008 (UTC)

Technically, it is since EA first said sometime in Spring 2008 and Will Wright said 6 months from October 2007. JAF1970 (talk) 03:01, 5 February 2008 (UTC)

So, does this mean that we can add TBA 2008 into the info box? we've got this cite - that seems to have been accepted on 'development of spore' 3rdTriangle 16:58, 6 February 2008 (UTC)

I think EA just proved why you want for official announcements than reseller guessing. JAF1970 (talk) 17:52, 13 February 2008 (UTC)

Biota Questions

I'm not up to speed with the level of discussion or information associated with Spore. I have just published a series of questions put to Will Wright at NASA Ames (January 26-27, 2008);

http://www.biota.org/podcast/biota_wright_rucker.mp3

Could one of the Spore scholars please review this audio, and if there is any new information please feel free to use the audio with applicable references. Many thanks. --Barbalet (talk) 16:25, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

I'll get on it. JAF1970 (talk) 18:03, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

Nothing in it not already in the article. ie. We already know the game never allows the player to be the highest creature on the food chain during the Creature phase, etc, etc. JAF1970 (talk) 20:39, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

So the budget to-date, the number of developers and the lack of a defined release date from Will Wright's perspective isn't new? Franchising model speculation, Spore 2 etc? --Barbalet (talk) 20:45, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

All that stuff would go into Development of Spore, not here. Especially budget, development Spore 2, etc. This article is about the game itself, not the development behind it. JAF1970 (talk) 20:50, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

I'll post the same again there. Thanks for your time/assistance. --Barbalet (talk) 21:00, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

Platforms

Spore has been confirmed for release on the Nintendo Wii as of January 2008. Source: Nintendo Power (magazine), January 2008/V224 --Cdw123321 (talk) 22:16, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

Um, no. The Wii has never been confirmed. Ever. Check Development of Spore"

“ Wright expressed the desire to release the game on other platforms, such as seventh generation consoles, the PlayStation Portable and the Apple Macintosh. In a GameSpy interview, Wright stated, "Well, actually we are going to go on all platforms, but we will come out on PC first. We will even come out on cell phones and stuff."

In a Videogamesblogger.com interview, Wright said that the game will take different forms on the different consoles. As for the Wii, Wright also said that it offers a lot of creative opportunities so the Wii may receive a different game. On October 26, 2007, Wright expressed a desire to develop for the Wii because the console was his "favorite platform" (though he did not elaborate any plans for a Wii version), in what was called an "off-the-cuff" statement, and as of January 29, 2008, no official announcement from Electronic Arts has been forthcoming.

”

Nintendo Power is parroting that interview, and it is not a fact. Until EA says it's coming to the Wii, it's not official. Spore has been "confirmed" by Wright for the 360, PS3, PSP, etc in other interviews. They're not official either. Do you know how another platform is "confirmed"? When EA announced it, as it did the Mac OS X version at a trade show, running on Macs. There's NO DEVELOPMENT MANPOWER towards other systems. JAF1970 (talk) 22:46, 31 January 2008 (UTC)

Wii was confirmed, not in an "off-the-cuff" manner, nor just "expressing a desire."

We're doing Spore on the Wii, and we did MySims. It takes signifcant re-thinking to work out how you're going to do it.[1]

He flat-out says that they are currently making Spore for the Wii. He is not just saying that he wants to do it or plans on doing it. Game information taken from interviews and other sources than official publisher announcements is put into articles regularly with no problem. --Crushed (talk) 18:24, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

He also "flat out" stated Spore would come out Spring 2008, too. Where's the press release for the Wii version? (rolling eyes) There was a more solid basis for including the Wii in Civ Rev. JAF1970 (talk) 04:48, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Yes, not only does today's interview with Will Wright talk about the Wii version, it takes it for granted that it was announced quite some time ago. KiTA (talk) 20:24, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

See gamefaqs.Brandonrc2 (talk) 22:39, 2 February 2008 (UTC)

Gamefaqs is a site made by players, not EA or Will Wright, so it doesn't matter what it says! --Samtheboy ^(t/c) 23:03, 2 February 2008 (UTC)

Sorry to be the blunt person but why are stupid people allowed here?Kiminatheguardian (talk) 19:48, 3 February 2008 (UTC)

Wikipedia is the same way. Made by users, not the actual people, so it doesn't matter! —Preceding unsigned comment added by 72.75.251.246 (talk) 22:57, 3 February 2008 (UTC)

It does matter, Chinese whispers. It doesn't matter that Wikipedia is also freely editable as long as the sites the people here get their information from are not also freely editable. The whole point is that the information here can be cited to verifiable sources. That excludes other freely editable sites because to have any merit they, too, would have to point to verifiable sources. In the end why point to a 2nd, 3rd or 4th generation when you can point directly to the source. In this case there is only one source and that source has not made an official announcement. Any date on any other site is speculation. Speculation is not verifiable. That's why it matters! -- Greyed (talk) 20:27, 4 February 2008 (UTC)

What about this link?[2] Firebertt (talk) 02:18, 7 February 2008 (UTC)

This one is better. The one you have is Will Wright saying it which, as JAF1970 contends, is not enough since he does not control EA. However the linked article from that one has Gamespot quoting EA officals as saying, "[With] Spore, we will be not only focusing on the PC and online; we are launching this innovative experience on the NDS." I'd take it but that is up to JAF1970 as it really is his bailiwick and I'm an interloper. -- Greyed (talk) 09:50, 7 February 2008 (UTC)

Just wanted to add that there is a very subtle distinction here. After the quoted passage Gamespot says the game will be released before the end of EA's fiscal quarter, March 31st. Note that they are saying it, not EA. That portion I'd be wary about. -- Greyed (talk) 09:52, 7 February 2008 (UTC)

Please notice on the Spore official release date press release: Spore will be available for the PC, Macintosh, Nintendo DS™, and mobile phones.

Until EA announces the Wii, Xbox 360, PS3, PSP, etc versions - those are the OFFICIAL PLATFORMS. JAF1970 (talk) 17:54, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

What about this article?[3] 74.94.99.17 (talk) 21:29, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

What about it? GameSpot said that Wright was talking "off the cuff". (Please read Development of Spore.) Had the discussion been about, say, the Xbox 360, and asked "Is Spore coming out for it?", he'd have said the exact same thing. He's already said he wants, note the word "wants" to bring it to every platform. The Wii is one of them. But until EA says so, it's not coming. Look at Civilization Revolution, for example. Meier WANTS to bring it to every console, but he can't. Why? No manpower. EA's press release specifically lists FOUR platforms confirmed: PC, Mac, DS, mobile. That's it.

EA is The Word of God in this matter. Wright can say anything he likes, but The Golden Rule applies: EA has the gold, makes the rules. JAF1970 (talk) 17:30, 13 February 2008 (UTC)

JAF1970, you seem to be ignoring the fact that yes, the EA press release explicitly states that only the PC, DS, Mac and Mobile versions will be released this September, but it didn't deny the existence of the Wii version at all. It will simply be released at a later date, which is yet to be announced. Sillygostly (talk) 00:31, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

(laugh) It doesn't deny the existance of a Commodore 64, Atari 2600, and ColecoVision version either. Your point? JAF1970 (talk) 00:41, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

I think some of you need English lessons:

“ Microsoft Windows[1], Mac OS X[2], Nintendo DS[3] and mobile phone[4] versions of the game have been confirmed.[6] Other platforms have been discussed, but not officially announced. ”

Now, what does "confirmed" mean and what does "officially announced" mean? Go to Development of Spore for mention of the Wii. Until EA announces the Wii version as it did the Mac OS X version, it's just speculation, on par with Wright stating he wanted it to come out on all platforms, including the Xbox 360, PS3, PSP, etc, etc. JAF1970 (talk) 00:46, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Wright states he wants to bring it to the Xbox 360, Wii and PS3, but guess what? None of those systems are confirmed nor will they be used in the Spore article, which is for confirmed facts only. Until EA says so, it's not being posted. JAF1970 (talk) 00:54, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Vandalism?? Where?!

There's no vandalism that I can see in the recent history of this article; so why is this page protected? I'd like a direct link to the act in question. Panzer V Panther (talk) 03:52, 9 February 2008 (UTC)

There's no vandalism NOW. And people kept ignoring the notes on editing the article. JAF1970 (talk) 04:13, 9 February 2008 (UTC)

There as a resonable amount of anon vandalism before the article was semiprotected. Have you looked far back enough in history? The article was protected on 12th Jan UTC [4]. Clearly there would be non anon vandalism since then since it has been semiprotected since then so it's a bit pointless to say there's been no anon vandalism since then... Nil Einne (talk) 15:12, 10 February 2008 (UTC)

SPORE RELEASE DATE: September 7, 2008

Ding ding ding! We have a winner! Spore official release date press release JAF1970 (talk) 17:48, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

He is right, SEP 7th YES! 67.173.245.215 (talk) 17:50, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

Thank you Will! Sweeces (talk) —Preceding comment was added at 18:03, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

Remember, not a forum. Go cheer at a Spore fansite, Joystiq, or the usenet. :p JAF1970 (talk) 18:07, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

*cheer* *cheer* —Preceding unsigned comment added by 163.231.6.67 (talk) 18:34, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

Looks correct to me. http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/12/technology/reuters-game.html?ref=technology —Preceding unsigned comment added by Ablattel (talk • contribs) 05:39, 13 February 2008 (UTC)

schouldn't somebody edit the official release date to the article...? i think the official hp giving an article with the release date is source enough to be trusworthy.would've doneit myself but the artilce is currently locked :) cheers —Preceding unsigned comment added by 82.169.22.181 (talk) 17:34, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

It's there. Do you not see it? Try refreshing your browser. --Yamla (talk) 17:42, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Darwin Day

I added a bit of trivia to the release date section regarding Darwin Day. This may or may not belong in the article. Josh McCartt (talk) 20:21, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

Sorry. Forgot to quote the text I added. "Coincidentally, the announcement of the release date coincided with Darwin Day, a day celebrating the birth of the man credited with discovering evolution, Charles Darwin." —Preceding unsigned comment added by Psxer2600 (talk • contribs) 20:21, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

Removing Community Manager Introduction?

I have two qualms about someone removing a modification I made to the Spore Entry.

a) Listing a Community Manager Welcome to Fansites and the Community. That seems like a total fit for this as it's a communique from Maxis themselves yet we're choosing to remove it.

b) on the grounds its a fansite, we might as well remove sporewiki.com. That's a fansite.

ManagerJosh (talk) 22:45, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

There was already a discussion on the inclusion of Sporewiki, and everyone agreed that any fansites that are to be added should be discussed first.

Regardless, on the topic of the link: Clearly there's a bit of a conflict of interest as you seem to represent that fansite. The link is not particularly useful to readers of this article, and it doesn't actually link to an EA website but rather to a fairly minor forum. See Wikipedia:EL#Links_normally_to_be_avoided, #4, #1, #11. Of course there can be reasonable exceptions to these rules, but I don't know how that links fits in there. -- Consumed Crustacean (talk) 23:46, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

Under the circumstances, I'd normally would agree. However the content of that greeting came in the form of an email. The purpose of posting such a link was not to promote a fansite, but to promote that EA has assigned a permanent community manager to the Spore Community and that there is representation. --ManagerJosh (talk) 02:32, 13 February 2008 (UTC)

Stop posting the Wii, Part 42

STOP IT. Until EA says so, it's just Wright saying what he's been saying about every. single. console. on. the. face. of. the. Earth. Wright expressed the desire to release the game on other platforms, such as seventh generation consoles, the PlayStation Portable and the Apple Macintosh.[38] In a GameSpy interview, Wright stated, "Well, actually we are going to go on all platforms, but we will come out on PC first. We will even come out on cell phones and stuff."[39]

Let's read the official press release, shall we? Where is the Wii mentioned? JAF1970 (talk) 17:27, 13 February 2008 (UTC)

Updated screenshots

Uploaded some up-to-date screenshots without watermarks. JAF1970 (talk) 18:03, 13 February 2008 (UTC)

Edit warring over rating

To avoid having to fully protect the article, I was wondering if we could reach a compromise on rating. One version that is being warred over is the one that states the rating as "RP"; note that RP just means rating pending, and is not actually a rating. See the ESRB ratings guide. Any thoughts? Master of Puppets _{Call me MoP!☺} 01:15, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Sorry, the RP thing was my doing. The actual edit war is over whether or not a Wii version is announced or in the works, or some such. I've conceded the point regarding RP. xenocidic (talk) 01:21, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

It's not only about that. User:Sillygostly keeps attempting to add content contrary to the set rules of the page - he constantly flaunts the notes, when the article clearly states has been confirmed and discussed but not officially confirmed, which is for Development of Spore.

And furthermore, he's been beligerent regarding RP, which is most definitely an ESRB rating - you'll see it on all Spore pages at gaming sites when ESRB Rating is listed. This is not the first time this user has presented a problem.

Heck, on his own page he calls himself a crossdressing Muslim with sunken chest from Australia. Honestly, he seems like a troll, frankly, even spamming my Usertalk page with beligerence. He doesn't want to accept what the people who have worked long and hard on this page have stipulated, and is being contrary. JAF1970 (talk) 01:25, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

How dare you judge me. Yes, I am a Muslim. And yes, I have a sunken chest. It's a congenital deformity. And the "cross dresser" userbox was purely tongue-in-cheek. Sillygostly (talk) 01:37, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Xenocidic: 1UP's Spore page has it rated RP by the ESRB. PERIOD. They're not the only site, by the way. JAF1970 (talk) 01:26, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Furthermore, if it's coming out on all platforms, according to Wright, you can see why we can't single out the Wii version, because he's already stated it's coming out on the 360, PS3, etc, etc. That's why there's Development of Spore. It discusses all the platforms it may or will come out for. THIS ARTICLE DOES NOT HAVE SPECULATION. It's about the facts and the game itself. I'm tired of reiterating this for the past few months. There's no announced Wii version. Period. If you include the Wii, then you have to include every other console that Wright has said it may come out for, or wants to come out for.

The fact is this - and this is first hand knowledge - there's no manpower currently devoted to the Wii or any other console system other than the DS and mobile. JAF1970 (talk) 01:31, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

JAF1970: Please see WP:V. While you may have first hand knowledge, it needs to be verifiable by reliable sources, otherwise I'd have first hand knowledge that the moon was cheese. Also, That 1up review doesn't rate it RP; it just states that the rating is pending. For example, an RP game could not ship with a rating of RP, as RP isn't a rating. Hope that makes sense. At least, that's what I think. Also, if Sillygostly can provide reliable evidence of a Wii version being considered then it stays. Master of Puppets _{Call me MoP!☺} 01:34, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

The official site has the RP badge at the bottom of the site. What more do you need? (laugh) JAF1970 (talk) 01:41, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

AND THERE IS NO EVIDENCE THAT A WII VERSION IS BEING DEVELOPED. Otherwise, it's just speculation and in Development of Spore. If you include the Wii, then you have to include the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and the PlayStation Portable because Wright said he wanted to make versions for those as well, months before. JAF1970 (talk) 01:42, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

I have to go to work now. I wish to discuss this when I return. JAF1970 (talk) 01:46, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Uh, JAF1970... what do you mean? Will Wright himself has stated that there is a Wii version in development. Can I safely say this dispute is settled? Master of Puppets _{Call me MoP!☺} 02:14, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

• In response to the topic, I believe the rating area of the infobox is intended to display only the finalized ratings of a game. RP does not supply such details as the game's content and suggested audience as a true rating like E+10 or M does, for example. It is just a placeholder, and I see no point for a placeholder in an article when none was ever needed to begin with. Unless having RP in the infobox is somehow vital to the article's integrity, then leave the rating area blank until a finalized rating is released.  Comandante  Talk  02:23, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

I think that it needs to say that "Will Wright has stated that a Wii version of the game is in development, however EA have not confirmed this." In all honesty, Will Wright said this game was going to be out last year, but it wasn't, so for almost 100% statements, we need to wait for EA to talk about this. --Samtheboy ^(t/c) 06:39, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Technically, the DS and mobile versions weren't officially announced by EA until the press release was issued a few days ago, yet many editors have accepted their existence as fact long before that. Revealing release dates in advance will always be problematic as video games (particularly of this capacity) are likely to be delayed. Judging by the sources that I've seen, I believe that a Wii version is in production, however there are no sources to suggest a possible release date (as it evidently won't be released this September alongside the PC/Mac/DS/Mobile versions). Sillygostly (talk) 08:59, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Technically, you're wrong. EA VP specifically said that tere would be a mobile and DS version that would come out on the same day as the PC version - check Development of Spore. He also said that they would only focus on one phase (the creature phase).

Development of Spore is for the history of the development, including what Wright said about the consoles he'd like to see it on (360, PS3, Wii, Macs, etc.) The Spore page is for verified, officially announced information. Please look at what the page says. If you add Wii, then you WILL have to add the 360, PS3 and PSP, since Wright in an interview months before stated he'd like to see it come out on those systems too. Check the links at Development of Spore. JAF1970 (talk) 14:55, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

I think you presume too much. If a Wii version is in development, how is that related to other console versions at all? None of the evidence about the Wii version mentions a 360, PS3, or PSP version as far as I can see. Those versions actually are speculation at this point, with no evidence to back them up like the Wii version has. Just because Wright said that he would "like to see it come out on those systems too" does not mean that those versions are a certainty; for all we know, the Wii may be the only console that gets its own version (if that version is made). We need separate proof of the other versions before they are added into the article, if at all.  Comandante  Talk  20:47, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Whoa, whoa, whoa. They have as much weight as Wright saying he wants to make for the 360, PS3, etc. Also, this same EA prez said that Spore woud be coming out in Spring 2008 and that Civilization Revolution was going to be released for the Wii. They actually announced the Wii version but dropped it because of a belated development. No EA press release, just speculation. I mean, the EA prez hasn't even given a vague date on when other versions would be out. If it isn't here, it's idle speculation, even by the EA prez. (Again, I'd point to the "release date" of Spring 2008 as evidence that you're dealing with a corporate here. You have a bunch of people commiserating.)

The MoP has aready discussed - CLEARLY in the notes - that unless there's an official press release from EA and Maxis, it goes to Development of Spore. That's what it's there for.

(What I find amusing is that the RP badge is smack dab on the official site, but somehow, it's less proof than a corporate bigwig making speculation. I'm still waiting for AOL functionality with the PS2 - the Sony prez said it was going to happen, too. (laugh)) JAF1970 (talk) 20:52, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

If that was a response to my comment, I'm afraid I fail to see how. I meant that if the Wii version is ever added to the article, then that would not be grounds to add in a 360, PS3, or PSP version as well. You are no authority on what Will Wright and EA will actually do for the game.  Comandante  Talk  21:04, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

And you do? No press release, it's for Development of Spore. That article is there for a reason. JAF1970 (talk) 21:07, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

You appear confused; I will try to clarify. I am also no authority, and am not asserting that the Wii version should be added into the article. I am merely trying to state that you should not make blind assumptions based on shaky evidence. If there is a Wii version, that is no reason to also add in other console versions unless accompanied by reliable evidence. The Wii version is certainly not confirmed yet, but any proof of that version does not equate to proof of other console versions.  Comandante  Talk  21:22, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

This has been the rule of the page since the article was trimmed and streamlined.

• Only official, press releases for release dates and platform announcements
• All else is for Development of Spore, where the history of release date changes and platforms go.

We all know that September 5/7, 2008 could change, too. However, what makes it different is that EA/Maxis issued a press release. It wasn't EA financial reports stating that Spore would come out in Spring 2008 - as well as Wright himself saying Spring 2008! EA bigwigs and Wright said Spring 2008, and that didn't exactly work out. JAF1970 (talk) 21:27, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Now we're getting to the heart of the matter. I was making a hypothetical comment about the game in response to your comment: "If you add Wii, then you WILL have to add the 360, PS3 and PSP, since Wright in an interview months before stated he'd like to see it come out on those systems too.". I apologize if I may have blown the matter out of proportion, but I was just arguing that each version would need official proof to be added in the article. Your comment above made me think that you regarded all versions as being related in terms of development. Since I now recognize that this was not the case, this issue is resolved.  Comandante  Talk  21:36, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Why not? Wright stated explicitly that those systems would get Spore, too. His word is about as good as the EA prez's. (laugh) Of course, they both said, as before, Spore would come out in Spring 2008. Many a slip between cup and lip. JAF1970 (talk) 21:45, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Actually, he didn't. The EA president has mentioned that a Wii version is in development, however any information on PS3/Xbox360/PSP versions is based purely on speculation as neither Will Wright nor the EA President have explicitly mentioned any of those three consoles. Sillygostly (talk) 02:58, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

So, yeah, I like the RP thing, I think it should stay. As far as the Wii thing, I don't know how these two unrelated issues (seem unrelated to me atleast) got intertwined. I think we should just chill until EA makes offical announcements before getting into a tissy about whether it'll be out for the Wii or made into a board game, or a collectable card game, or a new saturday morning cartoon. :-p We'll know stuff when they tell us. Nanobri (talk) 04:19, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

DS Version

Can we add a section about the DS version? There's some info about it on this site. [5] NinjaCow (talk) 09:52, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Problem is, it's not the same game as Spore will be. It's called Spore CREATURES and only does the creature phase. JAF1970 (talk) 14:58, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Stop adding the Wii

There is Development of Spore for all mention of non-confirmed platforms. this is what happens if you add the Wii:

• You have to add the other platforms
• Now you have four systems that are unconfirmed, and bloating the article as it was before Development of Spore was created.
• You have to remove and move to Development of Spore anyway

The Spore article, once again, is for confirmed data, not will be and may be stuff. All unconfirmed discussion going to Development of Spore.\, where it already states, " As for the Wii, Wright also said that it offers a lot of creative opportunities so the Wii may receive a different game.[42] On October 26, 2007, Wright expressed a desire to develop for the Wii because the console was his "favorite platform" (though he did not elaborate any plans for a Wii version), in what was called an "off-the-cuff" statement, and as of February 14, 2008, no official announcement from Electronic Arts has been forthcoming.[43]".

If it's not here, it's not official.

An example: EA said Q1 2009 (Spring 2008) was their target for release. How'd that work out? Until EA sent out an OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE, the release date for Spore here was TBA. JAF1970 (talk) 20:07, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

It doesn't have to be official. If Will Wright has said he's working on a Wii version then that can be mentioned, as he's the creator of the game. If it turns out that the Wii version failed, we'll make that clear. It isn't like you've got one chance to get this right, after all. Master of Puppets _{Call me MoP!☺} 04:09, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

This February 12, 2008 Newsweek interview[6] with Will Wright discusses the development of the Wii version. Will Wright has clearly mentioned that a Wii version is in development. - Zomic13 (talk) 04:19, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Civilization Revolution was "in development" too. What happened to the Wii version? Until there's a press release, it's not official. You can post whatever articles you like in Development of Spore. JAF1970 (talk) 04:21, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Civilization Revolution is a horrible example. The game was officially announced then officially unannounced. Seems to me that your definition of "official" is no more reliable than statements made by the creator of the game, who should know the progress of his game development better than some PR person. -Zomic13 (talk) —Preceding comment was added at 04:29, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

The Wii was officially announced for Civ Rev by Sid Meier, who is every bit a gaming god that Wright is. GUess what? Many a slip between cup and lip, and the fact is, unless EA issues a press release like they did the Mac OS X, it's all words.

After all, Wright and EA kept saying Spring 2008 as a release date. How'd that work out? JAF1970 (talk) 04:42, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Anyway, once again -- and it's tiring to do this every few months -- there's a reason for this. Only confirmed platforms are mentioned because the old Spore article was way way too long with every bit of info trickling in. Development of Spore was created to allow all the information without making the Spore article lost in a sea of useless trivia and facts. Only confirmed, press released stuff goes in, as well as previews (especially hands-on.) An example is the introduction of the Mac OS version.

I know you're itching for the Wii version, but there's no release date even hinted for it even if they WERE currently developing it. There's no "There's be a Wii release sometime in the future" in the Spore article. It's not hard facts. When EA trumpets in a press release the Wii version and even a possible release date in their press section of Spore.com, it'll be added. It's policy for this article, to keep it nice and concise. JAF1970 (talk) 04:57, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

DS Article

Is the separate DS article really necessary? I mean, sure it has a slightly different title (similarly to the Need For Speed series on PSP [e.g. Underground on PSP was released as "Underground Rivals" and so on]). I think any information pertaining to the DS version can be well contained within the core Spore article. Sillygostly (talk) 00:44, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Yes. The DS version is very different in that it is not a God game. You ARE the creature, in a story-driven mode. JAF1970 (talk) 00:50, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

If you need an analogy, think of The Sims 2 and MySims. Oh, and it isn't developed by Maxis. It's developed by Foundation 9. JAF1970 (talk) 00:53, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

But The Sims games on consoles were also very different to one another (for example, the GBA, DS, PSP, PC, Mobile and home console versions are all completely different games, however they all share the same name), yet all versions of the game were contained within a single article (with the exception of the core PC version). I don't see why Spore should be any different. For one, Wikipedia is not a game guide, and I feel that any DS-specific information can all be contained within the core Spore article. Just because the DS version was issued a *slightly* different title, I don't feel that that alone justifies giving it a separate article. Sillygostly (talk) 01:00, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

In my experience anyway, the handheld and console Sims games were never developed by Maxis. That still doesn't warrant a separate article for the DS version. Sillygostly (talk) 01:04, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Let's see:

“ The DS version of Spore focuses on collecting items, sure to be a hit with the Pokemon crowd. Players can earn 60 badges based on game moments -- like one for accurate rock throwing -- plus discover 280 hidden creature parts ”

Okay, the game is story-driven, no God game aspects, is developed by someone else, features Pokemon-style badges, item collection, Achievements, focuses on only one phase, and is 2D. It's a completely different game, as much as the mobile version, which is an hour long, and has multiplayer battles as an aftergame. (Remember, no MP in Spore PC/Mac).

I'd say it's VERY VERY different. (laugh) JAF1970 (talk) 01:07, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

So? The Sims on DS for example, was "VERY VERY different" from every other incarnation of the game, yet it was well contained within the core console article. Sillygostly (talk) 01:09, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Except it's got a different NAME, different DEVELOPER, different GAMEPLAY, different GRAPHICS, different MULTIPLAYER - little hint, the DS version as multiplayer, the PC/Mac does not - and so forth. (chuckle) They're setting the DS version apart from the PC/Mac version. Way apart. JAF1970 (talk) 01:12, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Handheld/console versions of The Sims games have also had different developers, gameplay, graphics and multiplayer modes. Yes, the name remained the same, but a name change doesn't instantly grant notability for the DS version. I believe that whatever little information is available on the DS version can all be contained within the core article. Wikipedia is not a game guide. Sillygostly (talk) 01:17, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Um, yeah. Sure. I despise it when people say "don't be a guide". Let me know what "pedia" means. If that were true, maybe you'd be happier at the Simple English Wikipedia. This is more WP:IDON'TLIKEIT than anything. JAF1970 (talk) 01:22, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Rob, Spore Creatures is a delicate matter. It's supposed to be Spore, but not. EA insists on lumping the DS and mobile versions with the PC/Mac, but at the same time they're not the exact same game. That's why I made the Spore Creatures article but kept the DS and Mobile versions as a "by the way" and a "((main|article))" reference.

I'm inclined to at some point make Spore Creatures its own article, as well as Spore (mobile). JAF1970 (talk) 01:22, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

And what's wrong with containing all Spore related information within either the "Spore" or "Development of Spore" articles? Creating a separate article for something as trivial as the mobile version is a tad excessive. Mobile ports of home console video games are never the same as the original console version, but that still doesn't justify giving them their own articles. A separate section for the mobile section within the core article would suffice. Sillygostly (talk) 01:29, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

No, I created the Mobile version article - Spore (mobile) is vastly different while remaining a part of Spore. Look at Guitar Hero Mobile and God of War Mobile - those are seperate games in their own right while being a part of a license. Put simply - Spore is a licensed product with different licensed games. JAF1970 (talk) 01:34, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Have I ever denied that the DS and mobile versions will vary vastly from the PC/Mac versions? No. That still doesn't justify separate articles for the handheld versions. Sillygostly (talk) 01:38, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Rob was right. While the DS and mobile phone version remain mentioned in the article, they aren't Spore. They're based on Spore. JAF1970 (talk) 01:40, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Well, the console/handheld versions of The Sims (among countless other games) are also based loosely on the "original" version, but they still don't warrant their own separate articles. Wikipedia is not a tool to play these little "power games" of yours. You need cooperate with your fellow editors or else I will have to take appropriate action. The separate articles provide nothing that hasn't already been covered in the core article. Sillygostly (talk) 01:46, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

"Power games"? (rolling eyes) JAF1970 (talk) 01:48, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Is that all you bothered reading? Sillygostly (talk) 01:50, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

I don't think a separate article is necessary; both games are the same concept, right? The mobile version just has a few quirks. Unless it receives significant media attention, I'd suggest keeping it part of this article now. Master of Puppets _{Call me MoP!☺} 04:10, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Not even close. Those games are very very very very different. I suggest you read the articles. Spore Creatures is a Pokemon evolving type game that's typical of the DS. Spore mobile is a Pac-Man type game in which you play for an hour then fight other people over the phone.

Also, Sillygostly is deleting articles without consensus of even a Quick Article Deletion. He's becoming a Wikipedia vandal in very short order. He's behaving as if he as Admin powers, and he simply doesn't. JAF1970 (talk) 04:15, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Vandal? Admin powers? Eat your own words before you regurgitate. And I haven't "deleted" anything. I am acting in the best interests of the people who happen to read this encyclopedia. These supplementary articles (Spore Creatures/Spore (Mobile)) are completely superfluous, as they consist of nothingmore than copy/pasted info from the main article. I think it would be more appropriate to redirect the DS/Mobile articles to their respective sections within the main Spore article as opposed to deleting them altogether. Also, bear in mind that you do not "own" the Spore articles (WP:OWN). Sillygostly (talk) 04:23, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

WP:OWN applies more to you then to JAF. You are owning the articles, and throwing them away. Look a bit at the "Spore Creatures" article. Look at it's gameplay. Heck, look at everything but the title. Now, look at this article. Only similarity is that Spore Creatures was inspired by Spore. 70.184.32.37 (talk) 04:33, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

I agree with the ownership issue; more consensus needs to be seen here, both in creating these split versions and in redirecting them.

Now, on the different version issue; if enough sources can be found to establish notability about the mobile version, then create the article. However, right now I'm not seeing much on why the phone version should be so notable. Master of Puppets _{Call me MoP!☺} 04:44, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Spore (mobile) isn't notable? Let's see...

• Maxis game
• One of the very few major mobile phone releases - even Guitar Hero Mobile didn't get this kind of press
• Spore license
• EA publishing

Pretty notable to me.

Here's the thing - these will be seperate articles in the future - it's just a matter of time. These games are not Spore. They have a far smaller scope, and both have a very finite end to each game, and both of them have direct multiplayer (Spore does not.) Whether you like it or not, at some point they'll have their own articles. JAF1970 (talk) 04:51, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

I am not claiming ownership over *any* Wikipedia article. My only proposal is that the Spore Creatures article is redirected to the main Spore article as the information provided in the separate DS article is *exactly* the same as that provided in the main article. The Mobile version on the other hand isn't notable enough to warrant its own article as countless console games are ported to mobile phones and handheld consoles, many of which are vastly different from that of the major console releases (such as The Sims 2). Thus, any version specific information should be confined to the main Spore article. The additional articles are unnecessary and should be used as redirects. The fact alone that Maxis is developing the game doesn't inherently grant notablility to the article. Sillygostly (talk) 04:54, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Spore Creatures will have its own box cover with a different title. Spore (mobile) won't even have a box cover. These are two seperate games in their own right. They are not even close to what Spore is. They're Spore-licensed games. Or would you say Halo Wars just a subset of Halo 3 because they use the same characters, vehicles, etc? JAF1970 (talk) 04:59, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Halo Wars is a separate game; a sequel if you will to Halo 3 (similarly to Return To Castle Wolfenstein: Enemy Territory). The DS/Mobile games do not belong to a separate "Spore" brand, all 4 versions of the game are being collectively released as one game: "Spore" (but released across separate platforms, according to the press release). Sillygostly (talk) 05:04, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Name one way that Spore Creatures even remotely is the same game as Spore. Where in Spore is there a set storyline and a plot? Where in Spore does the game actually have 12 levels then END? Because you're actually levelling your creature in Spore Creatures like a Pokemon or JRPG. In fact, SC is basically an RPG. JAF1970 (talk) 05:08, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

The GBA/DS versions of The Sims 2 and The Urbz were also RPGs, both of which had a self-contained storyline (with a beginning and end), but those games weren't given their own articles despite the differences they had from their PC/console counterparts. Spore DS is evidently similar to the PC version however it has been scaled down due to the technological constraints of the Nintendo DS console. The fact that the game embodies a few superficial differences from the PC version does not justify an entirely separate article. Any information pertaining to the DS and mobile versions can be merged in the main Spore article. Sillygostly (talk) 05:13, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

This isn't a SimCity/SimTown type of thing. One is a freeform game that never ends, with constantly shifting gameplay from Pac-Man to SimCity to Civilization to sandbox gameplay. The other is a 12 level Pokemon game that has a very definite storyline and an ending. This is more Grand Theft Auto IV/Pokemon comparison. JAF1970 (talk) 05:23, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

I. Am. Not. Denying. That. The. Games. Are. Different. But given the context of the game (and the sources provided), and the fact that many other video game articles have followed suit (by describing version-specific information within a single article), I believe any version specific information should be confined to the main Spore article as the separate articles have absolutely no information that hasn't already been covered in the main article. Sillygostly (talk) 05:27, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Yes, you are. You can't say "They're completely different!" then say "Merge them!" Why not merge SimTown into SimCity then? Exact same game, just aimed at a different audience. JAF1970 (talk) 05:36, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

SimTown and SimCity are completely different games. While SimTown may have been loosely based on SimCity (similarly to Theme Park and Theme Hospital), the two games were released at different times by different "brands". Spore on the other hand is treated collectively as "one" game (regardless of console), similarly to the various versions of The Sims 2, Pets, Castaway etc. Sillygostly (talk) 05:39, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Merge

In short, I propose that the DS/Mobile Spore artiles are merged with the main article. Take the Need for Speed: Most Wanted article for instance. While the console versions were released as "Need For Speed: Most Wanted", the PSP version of the game on the other hand was titled "Need For Speed: Most Wanted 5-1-0", but a name change and a few superficial differences does not warrant a separate article (like JAF1970 has done with the DS and Mobile versions of Spore). Information regarding alternative versions of the game (such as "Spore Creatures" and the mobile edition) should be confined to the main article. Sillygostly (talk) 05:32, 15 February 2008 (UTC)\

I love how you proposed the merger then did it 5 minutes later without actually having a consensus... or even having someone get a word in edgewise. JAF1970 (talk) 06:05, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Why not merge SimTown into SimCity then? You can't say that they're very different games then say "We should merge them". They're going to be seperate articles at this time in September, whether you want to merge them or delete them or not. JAF1970 (talk) 05:38, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

See the Need for Speed: Most Wanted article. The PSP port had a different name too, but information regarding the game was still confined to the main article. Sillygostly (talk) 05:53, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

People, these things haven't even been released yet. There is simply not enough information on the Spore offshoots at this time to warrant separate articles. As times goes on and there's more information about the other games, then perhaps it might make sense for them to be their own articles, with brief info on the main page, but as of now, ALL THERE IS is just brief info. I don't see a need to have the same exact info at two (or three) places when one will suffice.Nanobri (talk) 05:58, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Exactly. Besides, Wikipedia is not a game guide. Wikipedia should only provide general and/or critical information on the game. Every trivial detail pertaining to gameplay is not suitable for Wikipedia. Separate articles would perhaps be bettered suited to an independant SporeWiki (if one exists). Sillygostly (talk) 06:02, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

(cough) Why have a Spore article at all? Here we go with "game guide". Is the article telling you how to play? Is there a strategy guide in there? Saying Spore Creatures - and by the way, that's the game, according to EA many times over -- and Spore (mobile) are not the same as Spore. It's like saying SimCity is the same as Pokemon and Pac-Man. JAF1970 (talk) 06:04, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

At least make an attempt to comprehend our comments before arbitrarily dismissing everybody else as "wrong". Sillygostly (talk) 06:11, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

No, here's the thing - a year ago, the same stuff was raging in the Spore article, about release dates and platforms - feel free to check the archives. Me and a few others set up a policy regarding Spore. I did a chunk of the work putting the excess facts - which were still very important - into Development of Spore, and making the Spore article about Spore and just the facts - what and how. No who's, where's or why's. That's Dev of Spore. It's kept the article nice and trim, with some attempts at Good Article status. It won't be a good article if people add on rumors, unconfirmed articles, etc. Everything that's in the article is fact, backed up by a myriad of links. I'm shrinking the DS and mobile in Spore because they're not the same game. That's why they get their own articles, even if they're stubs at the moment. You blow into town deciding you're going to change everything that's been worked on for the last 2 years, without consensus but your own. JAF1970 (talk) 06:17, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

I've never denied for a second that the DS/Mobile games are different, but given the pattern of other video games (that are vastly different from the console counterparts), the DS and Mobile versions aren't notable enough to justify their own separate articles. All information regarding these two versions can be contained neatly within the main Spore article. Just because you've worked on the article for 2 years, it doesn't mean that you "own" it. Wikipedia states that "If you don't want your writing to be edited mercilessly... do not submit it." Sillygostly (talk) 06:20, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

I've worked in the video game industry in one form or another for the last 15 years, and have played them for 28. I think I have a grasp of what's important and what is not. What you have failed to grasp is the fact that you can't pretend to want to have a consensus or even a discussion then 5 minutes later do whatever the hell you like. JAF1970 (talk) 06:24, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

(sigh) I'll let you two duke it out I guess, my only point is that if all the info there is on the 'Spore-related-but-not-Spore' games is like three sentences then separate articles are not necessary.Nanobri (talk) 06:30, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

There was no information on some games like Tetris Splash and Lost Planet: Colonies except a game rating from ESRB or something. Of course they're stubs... for now. BUt they're still way different than Spore. JAF1970 (talk) 06:34, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

The Sims 2: Pets is another Maxis-made game which was available in several different versions: PC/Mac, Console, PSP, DS, GBA and Mobile. All 6 versions are *completely different* (whereas the PS2/GC/Wii versions are essentially the same). The PC version is an expansion pack to The Sims 2 on PC (which adds pets, and additional items to the core game), whereas the remainder are stand-alone games. Now, the console version of Pets contains a story (unlike the PC version) involving Sims and pets. The DS version on the other hand is a vetinary simulator; the GBA version is an RPG; the PSP version appears to emulate the console version (with a few omissions considering the technological limitations) and the Mobile version seems similar to Tamagotchi/Nintendogs (as it appears to be "Virtual Pet" type game). So with that in mind, would you say that all 6 versions of Pets deserve their own separate articles? Most of the games were released at approximately the same time (like Spore), and all games vary in order to utilise the feature of all 6 platforms of which the game was released, yet information regarding the games were all contained within a single article. Why should Spore be given preferential treatment? These articles are not about what is important to the video game industry. That is what gaming and fansites are for. Wikipedia's aim is to provide a neutral perspective across a broad spectrum of topics. Sillygostly (talk) 06:42, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

What does this have to do with the price of tea in China? SimTown and SimCity are extremely - would you consider them the same game? JAF1970 (talk) 07:03, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Stop changing the subject and answer my question. Sillygostly (talk) 07:22, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

I did. You just didn't listen. JAF1970 (talk) 07:26, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

No you didn't. In your opinion, would all 6 versions of The Sims 2: Pets deserve their own articles? (as they're all completely different games *strictly speaking* despite having the same title). All I want is a simple answer of "yes" or "no" (and why). Sillygostly (talk) 07:29, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

No, just these, because they're radically different. One is described as Nintendogs and the other flOw. Every publication I've read and talked to have said these are three seperate games altogether.JAF1970 (talk) 14:53, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

1up preview and articles

1Up's news states: "Basically, they're launching three separate games simultaneously. No wonder it took so long." Read the entire article. They also compare Spore Creatures to Nintendogs in their preview - and it also has minigames. Spore Mobile preview - they compare it to flOw. JAF1970 (talk) 13:46, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Stop removing the Wii.

Seriously.

• http://www.digg.com/gaming_news/Spore_Officially_Confirmed_for_Wii
• http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/16/spore-confirmed-for-wii-sorta/
• http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/07/wii-ds-link-play-confirmed-for-spore-plus-new-wii-info-in-lates/
• http://blog.newsweek.com/blogs/levelup/archive/2008/02/12/exclusive-will-wright-on-why-spore-is-taking-so-long-and-much-more-part-ii.aspx
• http://kotaku.com/gaming/confirmed/its-official-spore-coming-to-the-wii-315961.php
• http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/49653
• http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2007/oct/26/willwright
• http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3164001
• http://www.nintendowiifanboy.com/2006/08/04/spore-to-hit-the-wii/
• http://www.gamespot.com/news/6181823.html
• http://www.wiiwii.tv/2008/02/13/wii-spore-at-design-stage-but-definitely-coming/

I'm sorry that you missed the notice, really I am, but it's definitely confirmed for the Wii, as much as it's confirmed for the DS, and it belongs in the article. KiTA (talk) 14:59, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

[That last one] is particularly telling, someone directly at Maxis says that they will be definitely making a Wii spinoff game. In addition they talk in other articles about the DS/Wii communication stuff they want to do. I have added that information to the article, under platforms and Spinoffs. KiTA (talk) 15:08, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Spore confirmed for Wii "sorta"? A Digg post? And more of the same "Wright wants to make a Wii version" articles. Wright also said SPore would come out in SPring 2008. Stop with the old articles.

It doesn't help ALL of those articles go back to the SAME ARTICLE and the SAME INTERVIEW. (rolling eyes) You're not posting anything that hasn't been seen before.

There's only one way to verify: EA announces it in a press release and gives a release date. Period. This is not Spore Speculation. This is cold, hard facts. This has been the rule of the article for the last 16 months. JAF1970 (talk) 15:11, 15 February 2008 (UTC)

Newly confirmed here by Maxis: http://www.wiiwii.tv/2008/02/13/wii-spore-at-design-stage-but-definitely-coming/

Stop edit-bombing the article. KiTA (talk) 15:13, 15 February 2008 (UTC)