2004 · Nintendo · Simulation

PictoChat

Nintendo exclusive

chat software for Nintendo DS

Released: 21 November 2004
Platforms: Nintendo DS Nintendo DS family
Genres: Simulation
Developers: Nintendo
Publishers: —
Perspective: Text
Languages: English

About

PictoChat (ピクトチャット, PikutoChatto) is a LAN messenger service developed by Nintendo. It is preloaded on the Nintendo DS, Nintendo DS Lite and Nintendo DSi. Up to sixteen people can paint and/or text chat with each other using it, connected wirelessly through a LAN-only, system-to-system wireless connection. It allows for simple input of keyboard text and written text/drawings. PictoChat received an Excellence Prize for Entertainment at the 2004 Japan Media Arts Festival.

Keywords

non-game software

The articlegameplay, story, development, reception

Reception

After seeing PictoChat at E3 2004, Ricardo Torres of GameSpot called it "one of the most interesting pieces of software on display" for the system, though calling its interface "bare bones". Ty Shugart of Nintendo World Report expressed the view that it was "a great tool for getting a feel for the DS", but hoped it would be included with the system, calling it not worth buying for more than a couple of dollars. In another preview, Craig Harris of IGN called the software "more for fun than functionality", and "made for people in a classroom, or a plane", noting that "it has its own charms". Rob Fahey of Eurogamer called PictoChat "a hit around these parts" when writing an overview of the DS's functions, noting that it worked extremely well even with a poor wireless signal.

Hyper magazine called PictoChat "the highlight of the launch package", describing it as "riotously good fun", and saying that the software would cause the system to be banned from classrooms within months of release.

Legacy

Swapnote was seen as a successor to PictoChat for the Nintendo 3DS, although it did not allow for instant messaging. It was shut down in 2013. Swapdoodle, a 2016 revision with tighter restrictions, did not gain popularity.

A stage based on PictoChat appears in Super Smash Bros. Brawl. Another stage called "PictoChat 2" appears in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS, and is exclusive to the portable variant. An HD version of "PictoChat 2" returns in Ultimate.