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Today's Special Archives: January 2007
News Archives Index
Godzilla is Unleashed [ Atari ]
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Atari today announced the development of Godzilla: Unleashed, the ultimate giant fighting monsters game. Godzilla: Unleashed will tear its way onto Wii and Nintendo DS in fall 2007.
Godzilla: Unleashed is a fighting game on a giant scale. The game stars the legendary Godzilla and a slew of the most renowned monsters of all-time. Gamers are challenged to ultimately save the planet from mayhem and destruction. Set in urban arenas, Godzilla: Unleashed's interactive 3D cityscapes, big destructible buildings, soaring skyscrapers and towering alien formations provide the backdrop to epic worldwide destruction.
Players will claw, kick, stomp, throw and blast their way through the streets of major world cities in order to claim the ultimate, beastly title: King of the Monsters. In addition to a fully reinvented combat system, Godzilla: Unleashed will feature an innovative non-linear storyline which will allow players to influence how the story unfolds through their choices within battles.
Check out the first screenshots from the Wii version of the game, as well as the game's logo, below.
Images:
Godzilla: Unleashed Screenshot 1
Godzilla: Unleashed Screenshot 2
Godzilla: Unleashed Screenshot 3
Godzilla: Unleashed Screenshot 4
Godzilla: Unleashed Logo
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, January 31 2007 23:18 PM
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Nintendo has finally given us what we've been waiting for since the Christmas season ended - official numbers detailing the Wii (and other console/software) sales figures, courtesy of the NPD Group for US figures and NCL for global figures. So how is the little guy and his two-screened brother doing?
-U.S.
Wii Hardware: 1.08 million units
Wii Software: 2.99 million units
-Worldwide
Wii Hardware: 3.19 million units
Wii Software: 17.51 million units
-U.S.
DS Hardware: 9.15 million units
DS Software: 33.02 million units
-Worldwide
DS Hardware: 35.61 million units
DS Software: 154.23 million units
-U.S.
GCN Hardware: 11.64 million units
GCN Software: 104.80 million units
-Worldwide
GCN Hardware: 21.52 million units
GCN Software: 204.35 million units
-U.S.
GBA/GBA SP Hardware: 35.12 million units
GBA Software: 165.40 million units
-Worldwide
GBA/GBA SP Hardware: 78.86 million units
GBA Software: 362.50 million units
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Wednesday, January 31 2007 12:34 PM
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Mortal Kombat fansite Mortal Kombat Online scored major interviews with both Mortal Kombat creator Ed Boon and producer Shaun Himmerick at Midway's Gamers Day 2007. Both men revealed some interesting details on upcoming Mortal Kombat games, including revealing that an upcoming Mortal Kombat title is in the works for the Nintendo DS. According to Himmerick, the game will not be a port of any existing Mortal Kombat game, but it will not be an all-new title either. The game will also make use of the DS's numerous features, including single-card multiplayer and online play.
Boon and Himmerick were more open about the upcoming port of Mortal Kombat Armageddon which will making it's way to the Wii in March. The game will feature motion controls to make the series' special moves, such as Scorpion's spear and Sub-Zero's freeze blast, easier to pull off than ever. The Wii version will also feature an exclusive character: the lone MK character omitted from the PS2 and Xbox builds of the game, Khameleon. These features should make the game worth checking out upon its release.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Tuesday, January 30 2007 22:36 PM
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Today's Virtual Console Games Revealed [ Nintendo ]
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Today Nintendo adds four new classic games to the popular Wii video game system's Wii Shop Channel. The games go live at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo adds new games to the channel every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:
Mario Kart 64 (Nintendo 64, 1-4 players, 1,000 Wii Points): Put the pedal to the metal in this worthy successor to the Super NES classic, Super Mario Kart. Mario Kart 64 boasts great graphics, tons of unique power-ups and a stunning 3-D version of the legendary Battle Mode. With improved courses and a revolutionary head-to-head four-player mode, Mario Kart 64 is sure to win the heart of any race-driving fan. The game includes 20 different courses filled with dips, valleys, jumps, tunnels and bridges. Smooth, precise control – a trademark of all games from Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto – will bring players back time and time again for freewheeling fun.
Contra III: The Alien Wars (Super NES, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): In the year 2636, the Alien War continues, and it's up to two soldiers, Jimbo and Scully, to put a stop to the alien invasion. The aliens have ravaged the Earth with their powerful organic and technological weapons. Players can join with a partner and battle through six stages of nonstop run-and-gun action. Collect power-ups, including bombs, flamethrowers, spread shots, lasers and machine guns to take out the aliens. Control Jimbo and Scully as they travel through war-torn cities, race on air bikes, ride missiles and ultimately break into the alien base to defeat the alien boss once and for all.
Bonanza Bros. (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): Mobo and Robo Bonanza are enjoying their favorite television show when the picture crackles and the shadowy figure of a mysterious stranger appears on the screen. This figure asks them to collect certain items that he has placed inside various buildings to test his security force. If they return the items successfully, Mobo and Robo will be rewarded. The two of them state that they will get the job done in just three minutes. However, little do they know that each building is packed with security guards who will raise the alarm if they are caught red-handed. Fortunately both Mobo and Robo are equipped with bullets that can knock the guards unconscious for a few seconds. A huge reward will be given out if Mobo and Robo are apprehended. Help the infamous Bonanza Bros. infiltrate a number of different locations ranging from banks to mansions to casinos, and don't get caught.
Comix Zone (Sega Genesis, 1 player, 800 Wii Points): Sketch Turner is an artist in New York City. One day while Sketch is drawing, a huge thunderstorm strikes the city. A bolt of lightning hits Sketch's image and brings it to life. That image is Mortus, a megalomaniacal mutant who wants to become real and rule the earth. Mortus magically transports Sketch into the pages of his comic book so that he can end his creator's life and become real. Inside the comic book, Sketch meets General Alissa Cyan, who believes he is a superhero that came to save their post-apocalyptic world from the evil brought by Mortus's hand. Now that he's a comic book superhero, Sketch can really put the hurt on the bad guys. Instantly, Sketch can fight like a one-man mercenary platoon.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Monday, January 29 2007 11:46 AM
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The latest issue of British Nintendo mag NGamer reveals that yet more mature content is on the way to Nintendo's news console. According to the magazine, Vivendi Universal will be bringing a version of Scarface, released last year on the PS2 and Xbox, to the Wii, complete with Wii Remote controls. The remote will do a number of things in the game, such as allow players to aim Tony Montana's gun, or chop off limbs with a chainsaw. Players can also expect that most of the same content for the PS2 and Xbox versions will return for the Wii release, but NGamer did not state if any exclusive missions or other features were in the works for the Wii version. Stay tuned for more on this surprising development.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Saturday, January 27 2007 2:26 AM
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Looks like once again, Nintendo has released one of their channels earlier than announced. Although it wasn't supposed to launch until Saturday, Wii owners can now download the console's News Channel by simply running a Wii system update. Powered by the Associated Press, the Wii News Channel allows users to check out the latest in national and international news, as well as specific news from the worlds of sports, business, entertainment, health, and technology, complete with full-color pictures. Unfortunately, there is no region-specific local news yet. Users can also check out a quick slideshow featuring the biggest news of the day.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Friday, January 26 2007 4:01 AM
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Spectrobes, Disney’s eagerly awaited video game for the Nintendo DS, will not only take players on a captivating action-filled intergalactic journey, but will also introduce innovative new gameplay features designed specifically for the platform. Disney today announced that "Spectrobes" will include a unique code input card system, local wireless gameplay, Nintendo Wi-Fi downloadable content and a compatible online community.
Included in each "Spectrobes" game is a pack of four translucent lenticular code input cards, perfect for collecting and trading. Once players unlock the special ability in the game, they can fit a code input card over the Nintendo DS touch screen and use the stylus to consecutively tap numerical holes in the cards, unlocking new content, which includes creatures and minerals. Along with inclusion in game packages, additional trading cards will be available after the game’s release.
Once awakened and trained, Spectrobes are powerful creatures that can be used to battle against the Krawl or other players and their creatures locally via wireless gameplay. Players can enter a one-on-one battle with a friend or participate in an organized tournament for up to 16 players. Players can also earn the ability to download content such as videos, creatures, custom parts and minerals through a Wi-Fi connection. Also, once connected to the Internet, the Nintendo DS will generate a personal planetary patrol badge number that can be synchronized to each player’s profile page on the Spectrobes web site. Once connected to their game results, players’ profiles will include information about their Spectrobes creatures, armor and weapons. In addition, a leader board on the web site will track the top scores from several special sequence battles in the game, allowing players to show their success to a global audience.
Spectrobes is rated E for Everyone and will be released on March 13th for the Nintendo DS, with an MSRP of $29.99.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Friday, January 26 2007 0:31 AM
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Nintendo's 2006 Sales Numbers [ Nintendo ]
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For the nine-month period ending December 31, Nintendo managed to post record numbers thanks in no small part to the success of the Wii and the continued dominance of the DS.
18.88 million DS units sold worldwide during the nine-month period. Since launch, the DS has sold almost 36 million units across the globe, with over 14 million in Japan, over 10 million in the Americas, and 11 million in other territories. Nintendo also pointed out that more than 3.5 million unique users have played on the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection for DS, with "far more" than 100 million connections (as of 1/24/07).
Of the 4 million Wii units manufactured worldwide, the company sold and delivered 3.19 million to its distributors and retail customers around the world. The Americas are slightly ahead of Japan in terms of Wii install base (1.25 million vs. 1.14 million), while Europe has sold through 800,000 units. The company is maintaining its target of 6 million Wiis shipped by the end of its fiscal year in March.
On the software front, the company noted that during the nine-month period consolidated worldwide shipments for an incredible 19 titles reached or surpassed 1 million units. Unsurprisingly, the DS led the way with 13 of these titles, while the Game Boy Advance and Wii systems had 3 apiece.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Thursday, January 25 2007 16:08 PM
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Final Fantasy VI Advance Screens [ Nintendo ]
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Considered by many to be the finest Final Fantasy ever released, Final Fantasy VI comes to the Game Boy Advance in a re-release of a classic title. Featuring the same incredible sprite animation and enchanting, well-told story, Final Fantasy VI Advance will welcome a new cavalcade of fans to one of the greatest video game stories ever told. Check out some new screenshots of the title below, and watch for FFVI to release on February 7th.
Images:
Final Fantasy VI Advance Screenshot 1
Final Fantasy VI Advance Screenshot 2
Final Fantasy VI Advance Screenshot 3
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, January 25 2007 13:10 PM
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Mario Party 8 Character Art [ Nintendo ]
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Mario Party 8's delay was certainly unfortunate, but as a consolation Nintendo has released some new character art from the anticipated mini-game compilation. Gamers can expect tons of multiplayer fun via the Wii remote, allowing anyone to get into the Mario Party franchise due to the controller's all-inclusive nature. Check out the artwork below, and watch for Mario Party 8 sometime this spring.
Images:
Mario Party 8 Character Art 1
Mario Party 8 Character Art 2
Mario Party 8 Character Art 3
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, January 25 2007 11:45 AM
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New Diddy Kong Racing DS Info, Screens, and Art [ Nintendo ]
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A bloated space pig has taken control of Diddy Kong’s island paradise, and only you can stop his nefarious plot. Players take on the racing challenge of a lifetime as they drive, hover and fly their way across the massive island. This remastered take on a Nintendo 64 classic is sure to rev the engines of adventure racing fans everywhere.
Diddy Kong Racing DS is the first hand-held adventure racing game, a genre that lets players visit new locations, talk to interesting characters, advance the storyline and search for hidden secrets – all while engaging other drivers in a series of racing challenges to see who is king of the road.
Drivers can use Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection to go online and race against up to five other players from around the world. Diddy Kong Racing DS also features eight-player single-card download play as well as multicard local wireless play.
Wish Race mode gives players complete freedom to design, build and race on the tracks of their dreams. Touch-screen control makes building the courses a snap, and Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection compatibility lets players share their works of genius with everyone.
Diddy Kong Racing DS is a completely updated version of the N64 classic Diddy Kong Racing – and it boasts too many new features to list. Retextured and remixed tracks, new characters and racing challenges, new levels, improved vehicle control, touch-screen controls, gamer tag designs and more make this an experience that both newcomers and seasoned vets will love.
Check out the latest screens and some character art of the game below, and watch for it to hit stores on February 8th.
Images:
Diddy Kong Racing DS Screenshot 1
Diddy Kong Racing DS Screenshot 2
Diddy Kong Racing DS Screenshot 3
Diddy Kong Racing DS Screenshot 4
Diddy Kong Racing DS Character Art 1
Diddy Kong Racing DS Character Art 2
Diddy Kong Racing DS Character Art 3
Diddy Kong Racing DS Character Art 4
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, January 25 2007 11:34 AM
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Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment will launch the all-new action-packed LOONEY TUNES: ACME ARSENAL videogame in fall 2007, starring the classically mischievous animated characters in a next-generation adventure for the Wii.
Published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and developed by REDTRIBE, LOONEY TUNES: ACME ARSENAL is an action-adventure game featuring seven playable Looney Tunes characters, including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Tazmanian Devil, Foghorn Leghorn, Marvin the Martian, Gossamer and a special secret character, all rendered in high-definition, next-generation graphics.
Engaging in one or two player cooperative gameplay, gamers will find themselves immersed in fast-paced combat, puzzle solving challenges and vehicle-based action in rich environments inspired by the popular, outlandish cartoon tales. Players will command an arsenal of ACME melee and projectile weapons in outrageous battles and travel to various locations such as Camelot, Ancient Egypt, Mars, the Wild West, the trenches of World War II and more. Players will also be able to take full advantage of the gesture controls in fighting, spin attacks, smash attacks and driving on the Wii version.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, January 24 2007 2:30 AM
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Oddly missing from Nintendo's Q1 Wii lineup, announced this morning, was Mario Party 8 - previously announced by Nintendo to be coming out this March. Upon further investigation, it appears that Mario's latest mini-game family fun fest will need a bit more preparation, as the game has been moved to a vague Q2 2007 release date. While this does indeed mark already the second delay of a Wii game in 2007 (Wii Play was previously bumped from January to February), Nintendo could be using the added development time to prep some new features, including a possible online mode.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, January 24 2007 2:06 AM
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Brothers In Arms In Action on DS? [ ESRB ]
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The always-reliable ESRB always seems to reveal games before they actually are announced. They've struck again, as they've revealed what appears to be the latest in Ubisoft's World War II franchise, Brothers in Arms. Apparently entitled Brothers in Arms: War Stories, the game will be rated M for mature, making it one of the few DS titles to receive the rating. This will be the second portable excursion for the franchise after Brothers in Arms: D-Day released late last year for the PSP - although there's no guarantee that War Stories will stick with the first-person shooter format. Stay tuned, as Ubisoft will likely make the game official in the coming weeks.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, January 24 2007 0:13 AM
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Play Wii, Ride Roller Coasters, Vomit, Play Wii Again [ Six Flags ]
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Six Flags and Nintendo of America have announced the signing of a sponsorship and marketing deal. Under terms of this agreement, the Wii will be the "Official Gaming Console of Six Flags." Basically what this means is that Six Flags will have Wii Gaming Stations throughout some of their theme parks. The two companies will also collaborate on marketing initiatives, such as a national sweepstakes promotion for Six Flags on Nintendo.com.
Nintendo is really pulling out all the stops to make sure that the Wii is reached by people that might not necessarily be interested in gaming - and by the looks of the international sales figures so far, it looks like moves like this are exactly what the Big N needed.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Tuesday, January 23 2007 16:12 PM
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Q1 2007 Wii Lineup Announced, Mario Kart 64 On VC Monday [ Nintendo ]
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Nintendo's first-quarter lineup is filled with new games that expand the breadth and depth of the Wii library and build on the kind of fun that has made Wii such a smash hit. Fans can also enjoy the classic Nintendo franchises such as The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past and the upcoming Mario Kart 64 for the Wii Shop Channel. And on Jan. 27, the News Channel goes live with global coverage provided by the Associated Press.
Casual game players who recently discovered or rediscovered the thrills of video games through games like Wii Sports and WarioWare: Smooth Moves will be glad to know Wii Play, a collection of nine new games in the Wii Sports style, will be available Feb. 14. Wii Play includes games like Billiards, Fishing and Shooting Range, a target-practice game in the style of Nintendo's classic Duck Hunt. Wii Play comes packaged with a Wii Remote to highlight the fun multiplayer aspects of Wii, and to provide an incredible value.
Veteran gamers who spent countless hours playing through The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess will find new challenges by entering worlds populated by everyone from Tiger Woods to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, thanks to a deep list of new offerings from third-party publishers.
Beyond the current library of 34 new Wii titles, the schedule for upcoming Wii releases includes:
Feb. 14: Wii Play with Wii Remote - Nintendo
March 27: Disney's Meet the Robinsons - Buena Vista
March: Bust-A-Move Bash - Majesco
March: Prince of Persia Rival Swords - Ubisoft
March: TMNT (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) - Ubisoft
March: Bionicle Heroes - Eidos
March: Blazing Angels Squadrons of WWII - Ubisoft
Q1: Tiger Woods PGA Tour 07 - EA
Q1: SSX Blur - EA
Q1: The Godfather Blackhand Edition - EA
Q1: Medal of Honor Vanguard - EA
Q1: Sonic and the Secret Rings - Sega
But new titles don't begin to describe the array of game action available on Wii. With yesterday's Virtual Console release of The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past from the SNES, the library of downloadable Wii titles grows to 42. Also, next week will see the addition of an all-time favorite, Mario Kart 64. Nintendo will continue to make weekly announcements to update Wii owners about upcoming releases.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Tuesday, January 23 2007 15:21 PM
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The date is Dec. 28, 1979. Disgraced New York detective Kyle Hyde checks into the seedy Hotel Dusk in Los Angeles and suddenly finds himself embroiled in a 30-year-old murder mystery. This is the story of Hotel Dusk: Room 215, available exclusively for the portable Nintendo DS on Jan. 24. The dual screens of a player's Nintendo DS display stylized sketch animation evoking a comic-book-like film noir. Conversations with more than a dozen characters help players piece together different story elements as the mystery deepens. Players decide where the story goes next by weighing their options and tapping their decision on the touch screen using the stylus.
Hotel Dusk: Room 215 features deep characters, grown-up themes and an engrossing plot. It has more in common with a gritty crime novel than a video game, and appeals to mystery lovers and video game fans alike. As the plot develops, players must make choices before they begin each conversation, like deciding whether to strong-arm a subject or play it cool. Players hold the portable Nintendo DS system sideways like a book, and the touch-screen controls make it easy for newcomers to pick up and play, even if they have never played a video game before. Nintendo's aim is to expand the world of video games to new audiences through creative new interfaces. Hotel Dusk: Room 215 is available on Jan. 24, and is Rated T for Teen. For more information about the mystery, visit HotelDusk.com.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Monday, January 22 2007 23:43 PM
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Atari today announced the development of Dragon Ball Z Harukanaru Densetsu for Nintendo DS. Dragon Ball Z Harukanaru Densetsu is an all new DBZ experience unlike any other for the Nintendo DS. Harukanaru Densetsu combines strategic card based gameplay and role playing to deliver a game that is easy to understand but hard to master. Players' progression is determined through their use of the cards to evolve characters, strengthen moves and create new moves. Developed by NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc., Dragon Ball Z Harukanaru Densetsu will be available on Nintendo DS in Spring 2007.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Monday, January 22 2007 23:27 PM
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Gaming blog Codename Revolution has unearthed some new data thanks to an advanced copy of the latest issue of Nintendo Power magazine. The info details info on several anticipated Wii titles, and reveals a couple of new games to boot.
- Fire Emblem: Goddess of Dawn for Wii will be, in fact, coming to the US, under a new title. Expect it later in the year.
- Eidos will publish Spike's survival horror game, Necro-Nesia, in the US. It will be called "Escape from Bug Island". Yeah, not joking on that title.
- Warner Bros. Interactive is bringing the title "The Looney Toons" to the Wii. Billed as "Looney Toons meet Smash Bros." the game will feature single player or co-op play allowing players to fill the role of Bugs Bunny or Daffy Duck. Other characters such as Foghorn Leghorn, Marvin the Martian, and Taz will also make appearances. The Wii Remote will be used for such actions as flinging pies or using hammers. It's expected for a Fall 2007 release.
- Biggest of all, the long-awaited Super Paper Mario is finally on it's way to the Wii - not the GameCube as previously announced. The game has received a graphical upgrade since E3 2006, and will be controlled holding the Wii Remote on its side like an NES controller (ironic, since the game looks very similar to Super Mario Bros.). The 2 button allows Mario to jump, while the A button switches the view from 2D to 3D. The game will take place in the land of Flipside, where Mario meets the Pixis: creatures that give him special attacks, executed through Wii remote gestures. The remote can also be shaken when jumping on an enemy, giving Mario bonus points. The best part is that the game isn't far away at all, and will be released in April.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Monday, January 22 2007 17:10 PM
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Zelda: Link to the Past Added to Virtual Console [ Nintendo ]
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Today marks the slimmest Virtual Console Monday release ever, as only one game has been added to the Wii Shop channel. Fortunately for us, it's a doozy: The Legend of Zelda: Link to the Past, Link's only adventure on the Super Nintendo, and considered by many to be one of the finest games in the acclaimed series.
Return to an age of magic and heroes. When an evil magician named Agahnim begins kidnapping young maidens in Hyrule in a quest to break the imprisoning seal on Ganon, a young boy named Link is called upon to stop him. Link must venture into twisting mazes, dungeons, palaces and shadowy forests as he searches for the maidens and Princess Zelda. Traversing both Light and Dark Worlds, he must navigate eight dark dungeons, fighting evil enemies and huge bosses. Help our hero prevent Ganon and Agahnim from shattering Hyrule forever.
The game is now on sale for a mere 800 Wii points. If you've never played this one, what the hell are you waiting for? Let's hope Nintendo now starts bringing out the big guns for the VC.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Monday, January 22 2007 13:18 PM
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Nintendo designer Shigeru Miyamoto, legendary creator of Super Mario Bros, Zelda, Donkey Kong, and more, will be making his first keynote address since 1999 at this year's Game Developers Conference. The keynote will take place from 10:30am - 11:30am in the Esplanade Room of the Moscone Center's South Hall on Thursday, March 8.
In his keynote speech, Miyamoto "will reveal how a singular creative vision drives his work, not only in terms of his world-renowned software like the Super Mario Bros. and Legend of Zelda series, but also in generating key technologies, including the current global phenomena, Nintendo DS and Wii."
Miyamoto joins other Nintendo speakers at this year's GDC, including Eiji Aonuma, who's been working on the Zelda franchise since Ocarina of Time and most recently oversaw Twilight Princess, and Koji Kondo, the musical genius who created numerous classic themes for the Mario and Zelda games.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Monday, January 22 2007 11:42 AM
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The Game Developer's Conference has announced that Grasshopper Interactive head Kouichi Suda, AKA Suda 51, will deliver a keynote speech at the upcoming 2007 event. The speech will be entitled "Punk's Not Dead" and will discuss taking risks in video games. Suda is no stranger to this concept, as his previous releases such as Killer7 for the GameCube and Contact for Nintendo DS have been anything but run-of-the-mill gaming. Suda will also talk about his upcoming Wii title No More Heroes, and might give some more details and insight on the game as well. Stay tuned as Wii Café covers all that is GDC when it rolls around March 5th through March 9th.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Friday, January 19 2007 19:45 PM
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Capcom Working on New Wii Project [ Gemaga ]
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Japanese gaming blog Gemaga conducted an interview with famed Capcom producer Keiji Inafune, who states that he has an unannounced project in the works for Wii and would like to be able to show it off this year. Inafune previously produced the popular Xbox 360 titles Dead Rising and Lost Planet, which makes his upcoming Wii game all the more intriguing. This is even more intriguing in light of Inafune's previous statement of his desire to bring his most famed creation, Mega Man, to the the Wii, believing it to be "the best platform" for the series. Could Inafune's new project be a possible rebirth of the Blue Bomber on Wii? Stay tuned.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Friday, January 19 2007 19:19 PM
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GamesAreFun is reporting through Japanese gaming site EG that a sequel to last year's Mega Man game for DS, Mega Man ZX, is getting a sequel. Called Rockman ZX Advent (or Mega Man ZX Advent for us english-types), the game will likely return to the 2D platforming that made the original so great, with a wide array of power-ups and other features. Stay tuned for more as it breaks.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Friday, January 19 2007 13:15 PM
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Driver, Wing Island, Kororinpa Coming Soon [ ESRB ]
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A crop of new Wii games have shown up on the ESRB's website.
Ubisoft's support keeps on coming, as Driver: Parallel Lines shows up on the list. No rating has been given yet, but it is expected to have an M rating.
Also on the list of titles is Wing Island from Hudson. Players hold the remote on its side for the Pilot Wings-esque game to perform stunts and collect items. Rating: E.
Kororinpa is a game similar to Marble Madness/Super Monkey Ball where you navigate a ball through a 3D maze. Rating: E.
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Thursday, January 18 2007 23:44 PM
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Baseball-loving Nintendo fans upset that MLB 2K7 would not be hitting any of the company's systems can rest easy today. According to 2K Sports' website, Major League Baseball 2K7 will in fact be hitting both the Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS later this year, both launching at an MSRP of $19.99. The DS version will be the first baseball title ever released for the system, and should be rather unique with the possibility of touch screen pitching and hitting. The possibility of Nintendo Wifi Connection play is also up in the air. We hope to hear more about these games as we get closer to their March release.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, January 18 2007 17:35 PM
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New Wario: Master of Disguise Screens and Artwork [ Nintendo ]
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Long absent from the genre of side-scrolling adventures, Wario returns from his microgame business to what he knows best in Wario: Master of Disguise for the Nintendo DS. Using an array of costumes, Wario can transform into various disguises each with a specific use. That's about all we know about the game at this point, but if previous Wario games are to to be any indication this should be a terrific title. Check out some new screens and character art from the game below.
Images:
Wario: Master of Disguise Character Art 1
Wario: Master of Disguise Character Art 2
Wario: Master of Disguise Character Art 3
Wario: Master of Disguise Screenshot 1
Wario: Master of Disguise Screenshot 2
Wario: Master of Disguise Screenshot 3
Wario: Master of Disguise Screenshot 4
Wario: Master of Disguise Screenshot 5
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, January 17 2007 15:08 PM
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NAMCO BANDAI announced today that Tamagotchi Party On! for the Wii video game console from Nintendo will be coming to North America this Spring 2007. This 3D party game based on the Tamagotchi franchise promises tons of fun as up-to-four players can go head-to-head in the most comical and cute campaign race to become the most popular Tamagotchi on Tamagotchi Planet!
Swing your Wii controllers and turn the whole planet into your playing board. Tamagotchi Party On! allows players to choose their favorite virtual pet and engage in a hilarious campaign to become the next president of Tamagotchi Planet. Earn your popularity by going up against three friends or solo in over 15 unique and totally addictive mini-games including shaking hands, finding lost children, and testing your public speaking skills! In order to succeed at each of these mini games, players will have to swing, shake, point, turn and twist their Wii controllers in order to increase their popularity.
Gamers can also use Gotchi points that they earn along the way to level up their characters and customize their very own campaign headquarters. With over six different towns to win over and tons of popularity points to be earned in a number of fun and quirky mini-games, Tamagotchi Party On! brings out the fun in politics without all the mudslinging! Be happy! Be popular! Be president!
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, January 17 2007 14:41 PM
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Ubisoft Announces Cosmic Family for Wii [ Ubisoft ]
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Ubisoft announced that Cosmic Family, an exciting space adventure geared toward young children for the Wii and developed by Ubisoft's Barcelona studio, will launch worldwide in mid-2007. By simply pointing their Wii Remote, players will embark on an interactive tour of the Cosmic Family's action-packed rocket.
Players will have a chance to interact with the Cosmic Family, where they will meet Mom and Dad Cosmic, Big Sister, the two small children, the aloof dog, the lazy cat, and plenty of colorful monsters. With 15 early-learning mini-games found throughout the five floors of the rocket-house, families can pilot a rocket into space, discover what the stars are hiding, create and color whimsical images, customize rooms, brush a monster's teeth, play dress-up with various characters, nurture plants from seeds and more. This fun, original and colorful game is designed to improve children's memory, hand-eye coordination, creativity and imagination.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, January 17 2007 14:29 PM
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Record-breaking numbers of Nintendo DS and Wii consoles sold out as quickly as they could be restocked, proving that Europeans are embracing Nintendo’s revolutionary new take on gaming.
In the UK, independent sales figures released by Chart Track confirm Nintendo’s Wii and DS games consoles topped the must-have gifts this Christmas, in total almost 200,000 Wii consoles were sold in the UK over the Christmas period. Nintendo DS further cemented its status as the market leading hardware format in the UK for 2006. The total number of Nintendo DS units sold in the UK in December topped 500,000 making it not only the best selling console of any kind in the UK this Christmas - but the best selling console of any kind in 2006.
1.7 million DS units were sold across Europe during December making it the best selling games console in Europe across all formats, both in December and 2006, by a substantial margin. At the same time, Wii became the fastest selling games console in European history after its first weekend. In a matter of days Wii was totally sold out across the continent. Since launch Nintendo has been continually shipping more stock to retail outlets to meet unprecedented demand from both gamers and non-gamers alike. Despite selling out faster than it could be restocked, over 700,000 Wii consoles were snapped up across Europe in December 2006.
Over 500,000 copies of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess sold in December, meaning that over 70% of Wii owners purchased this game. Wii Play has seen similar success with 320,000 copies sold to date, accounting for 45% of all Wii owners and showing that playing together was a priority for over half of Wii gamers thanks to the Wii Remote bundled with the game.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Monday, January 15 2007 19:22 PM
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Nintendo continues its weekly update of virtual console games today with three new releases:
Xevious (NES, 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): Players control their Solvalou ship and destroy the XEVIOUS forces. Fire the zapper missiles against air-based enemies and drop the blaster bombs down upon ground-based targets. Destroy Andor Genesis to earn bonus points. Unique enemies, interesting background music, a variety of vertically scrolling background environments and many hidden game play features differentiated Xevious from the other shooting games released at the time. Are you devious enough to beat Xevious?
R-Type III: The Third Lightning (Super NES, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points): It was believed on Earth that the deadly BYDO Empire had been destroyed - but now they've returned, as nasty as ever. Their ships and armies are more powerful than before, and Earth will surely be conquered unless the new R-90 ship can destroy them. Powered with engines that launch it into different dimensions, and armed with the Round, Shadow and Cyclone Forces, the R-90 has what it takes to wipe out the BYDO threat. The BYDO mother ship must be found and destroyed to entirely erase the species from our galaxy.
Moto Roader (TurboGrafx16, 1-5 players, 600 Wii Points): Moto Roader is a futuristic racing game that allows up to five players to compete against each other. Players use the cash earned when they win a race to power up their machine. Not only can they change the "TIRE" and "BODY" of their vehicles, but they also can add "SPECIAL" parts. Jump over tall obstacles with a "HOPPER" and blast past rivals at incredible speeds with "NITRO." What multiplayer game would be complete without attack items? Use a forward-launching "GRENADE" or a backward-dropping "BOMBER" to blow up and knock away rivals. Outmaneuver rivals in all eight heats to become the champion. Any combination of Wii Remote and Nintendo GameCube controllers can be used in multiplayer games.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Monday, January 15 2007 8:45 AM
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Nintendo Wins Emmy...Yes, Really [ Nintendo ]
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The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences has awarded Nintendo an Emmy Award for its invention of the plus-shaped D-pad, one in a long string of Nintendo's controller innovations. The award was presented in recognition of the technological achievement of the D-pad, which radically changed how people interact with their video games and, by extension, their televisions. Nintendo received the award in Las Vegas during the Technological & Engineering Emmy Awards, which kicked off this week's Consumer Electronics Show.
The D-pad first debuted on the controllers for the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1985, and has been standard on all video games controllers ever since. The D-pad replaced joysticks and represented an early example of how Nintendo was willing to shake up the status quo in the search for a better gaming experience.
Good to see Nintendo being actually forthcoming with what they're actually receiving an Emmy for...y'know, unlike some other companies.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Monday, January 15 2007 2:25 AM
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Nintendo Announces New VP of Licensing [ Nintendo ]
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Nintendo of America today announces Steve Singer will become the new vice president of licensing for Nintendo of America, effective immediately. The licensing division is responsible for all licensing efforts with publishers and developers creating software and accessory products for Nintendo's two main hardware product lines - the portable Nintendo DS and the newly launched Wii.
Singer, 43, started with Nintendo of America in 1999 as general manager of Latin America, where business has boomed, growing by a factor of four during his tenure. He was promoted to vice president and general manager of Latin America in July 2006.
Singer replaces Juana Tingdale, who is retiring as licensing head March 5, after 22 successful years of service with Nintendo. During her tenure, Tingdale developed deep relationships with the world's most premiere publishers, culminating in the current near-unprecedented level of licensee support for Nintendo's two platforms.
Filling Singer's role will be Melissa Wright, who is being promoted to director and general manager of Latin America. Wright joined Nintendo in 1993 and has held numerous positions with increasing responsibility within the company. Since 1999, Wright has played a pivotal role working alongside Singer in the development of the Latin America business and expansion of Nintendo into emerging markets. In her new role, she will lead strategic direction for the Latin America business and continue to work alongside Nintendo's Japanese parent company to further development of Nintendo's business in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Saturday, January 13 2007 2:47 AM
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There has never been anything like it. Independent U.S. sales figures released by the NPD Group today confirmed a red-hot launch for the new Wii system by Nintendo, and the crowning of the portable Nintendo DS as the best-selling video game device of any type for both the holidays and all of 2006.
Along with stunning success for The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess and historic sales of accessories, including more than 1.5 million extra controllers for Wii alone, Nintendo recorded the most successful across-the-board holiday performance in U.S. video game history.
Among key results:
* Consumers purchased every Wii console available at retail—more than a million in just the 44 days between U.S. launch and year end.
* With sales of another 1.6 million systems in December alone, Nintendo DS achieved full year sell-through of 5.3 million.
* The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess was purchased by an extraordinary 86 percent of Wii buyers, or more than 900,000 games for that system alone. Coupled with the companion version released in December for Nintendo GameCube, the two versions of the newest Zelda title totaled approximately 1.5 million unit sales in less than seven weeks, which would represent one of the five best-selling games for the entire year.
* Wii owners also purchased an average of three additional games from a wide library of choices, in addition to the Wii Sports title packed in with every hardware system.
* Two Nintendo DS titles, New Super Mario Bros. and Brain Age: Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day, also were top-10 sellers for the year.
* Throughout the November/December holiday shopping period, Nintendo accounted for more than half of all video game hardware systems sold in America.
Earlier this week, Nintendo increased its projected worldwide financial performance for the year ending on March 31 to be the best in company history.
All in all, this spells out the single best holiday selling season in US videogame history. And you guys helped make it happen. Give yourselves a cookie.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Thursday, January 11 2007 23:40 PM
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O~3 Entertainment today announced that Radio Allergy, an arcade shooter game for the Nintendo GameCube, is scheduled to launch in February. Featuring three different gameplay modes, Radio Allergy is a modern day revival to the classic arcade style shooters like Gradius and R-Type. Taking full advantage of backwards compatibility, Radio Allergy will also be playable on the new Wii console.
Developed by Milestone Inc., Radio Allergy sets the heroine, Shizuru Kamigusa against a ruthless group of terrorists. Shizuru must utilize her portable terminal suit to defeat the terrorists and their leader Ruiki Mishima. This timeless shooter offers three game modes, Arcade , Score, and “Full Belly”. Arcade and Score allow players to follow the story and the missions that go with them. In “Full Belly” mode, the portable terminal suit is given maximum power and unleashes droves of damage against non-stop enemies causing even larger explosions.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, January 11 2007 23:17 PM
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Electronic Arts officially announced today the Wii version of last year's The Godfather video game. Entitled The Godfather Blackhand Edition, the game will make use of the "Blackhand Control System" allowing players to use the Wii Remote and Nunchuk to kill people in fun and innovative ways.
The Godfather Blackhand Edition for Wii also offers brand new ways to go from Soldier to Don as you gain control of the streets of New York. Follow the path of an Enforcer or Operator; each with its own unique perks and abilities to earn. Now you can chat up specific characters to get the skinny on dirty cops, take down two additional revised compounds of rival Families, execute five new contract hits, and call in larger Corleone Hit Squads when the going gets tough.
Check out the first screens of the game below, and watch for the title to hit stores this March.
Images:
The Godfather: Blackhand Edition Screenshot 1
The Godfather: Blackhand Edition Screenshot 2
The Godfather: Blackhand Edition Screenshot 3
The Godfather: Blackhand Edition Screenshot 4
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, January 11 2007 23:07 PM
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While the official word is yet to come from Square Enix, it appears as though the Japanese DS title, Chocobo and the Magic Picture Book, will be coming to the US. The game will be released under the title of Final Fantasy Fables: Chocobo Tales, and is a mini-game compilation in the vein of Mario Party featuring wireless multiplayer. You can check out the official teaser site for the game here. More info, like a firm release date, should be revealed soon.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, January 10 2007 23:12 PM
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Nintendo Predicts Fat Sacks of Cash Money [ Nintendo ]
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Nintendo has once again upped its profit forecast for the year, from 100 billion yen to 120 billion (about $1 billion). Nintendo's fiscal year ends March 31. Furthermore, the company said it's now expecting annual sales of 900 billion yen ($7.54 billion), which is up from its previous forecast of 740 billion yen. Nintendo also raised its full-year operating profit estimate by 28 percent to a record 185 billion yen ($1.6 billion); the previous forecast was for 145 billion yen. The company posted a 90.3 billion yen profit during the last business year.
"One of the reasons for the large upward revision is because DS sales were steady even after the launch of Wii," said Nintendo President Satoru Iwata at a news conference in Osaka, Japan. "Also, demand typically shrinks after the Christmas season, but this year, we don't see demand slowing down."
Nintendo still plans on shipping 6 million Wiis worldwide by the end of their fiscal year, but has upped software sales predictions from 17 million to 21 million units. All in all, this year and next look to be very, very bright for Nintendo and its fanbase.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Wednesday, January 10 2007 19:19 PM
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1 Million Wiis Sold in Japan [ Famitsu ]
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Japanese game site (and magazine) Famitsu is reporting that the Wii has already hit a sales milestone in Japan, selling over 1 million units. According to the magazine, the total sales for the system are 1,135,671 units, more than double PlayStation 3, which sold 466,716 units. The Xbox 360 continued its selling woes in Japan, only reaching 290,467 since it's release last year, but still selling 90,000 of those units in December. The Wii's dominance isn't due to PS3 shortages either - IGN is reporting that the PS3 has been relatively available since the start of the new year, while the Wii has been extremely hard to find. Could we be in for a changing of the guard in consoles over in Japan?
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Tuesday, January 9 2007 13:27 PM
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Nintendo has announced their Q1 Virtual Console lineup for Europe, and it features a lot of games already available on our shores, as well as several titles yet to be released (or even announced) here. Check out the list below.
Nintendo 64
Mario Kart 64
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
SNES
Street Fighter II: World Warrior
Super Contra (Called Super Probotector in Europe)
Super Mario World
TurboGrafx-16
Soldier Blade
Double Dungeons
New Adventure Island
Genesis (Megadrive)
Streets of Rage
Bio-Hazard Battle
Comix Zone
Gain Ground
Bonanza Bros
The entire Genesis lineup is the same hitting the VC in the coming weeks from Sega here in North America, while games like Street Fighter II and Soldier Blade have already hit our version of the service. I don't think I need to say that the most enticing games on that list are Super Mario World, Mario Kart 64, and of course, the legendary Ocarina of Time. Let's hope that Nintendo plans to get these games on our shores sooner rather than later.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Tuesday, January 9 2007 13:18 PM
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Konami of Europe has confirmed its first title for Nintendo’s New Generation Wii video game system. Entitled Eledees, due this spring, it is an original catch and seek title that uses the Wii hardware’s unique control system to search for and capture the titular mischievous Eledee creatures. With its clever gameplay elements and innovative control, the title has already received praise and awards overseas.
While the name change certainly doesn't roll of the tongue like "Elebits" does, it's certainly a good thing that European Wii-owners will be able to play this terrific title soon.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Tuesday, January 9 2007 3:12 AM
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New Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screens [ Atlus ]
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Finally, a dungeon RPG strong enough for a man… but played as a hot chick! Drop your stylus, you pansy, and get back to the old school, hardcore, monster bashing we all grew up on! See if you have what it takes to conquer the impossible levels and gruesome bosses. After all, does it get any better than the feeling of cold steel at the palm of your hands?
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja poofs into stores for the DS on February 21st. Check out a bunch of new screens for the game below.
Images:
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 1
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 2
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 3
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 4
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 5
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 6
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 7
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 8
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 9
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 10
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 11
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 12
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 13
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 14
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 15
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 16
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 17
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 18
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 19
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 20
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 21
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 22
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 23
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 24
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 25
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 26
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 27
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 28
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 29
Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja Screenshot 30
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Tuesday, January 9 2007 2:54 AM
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Sega Announces Five for VC [ Sega ]
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SEGA today announced five titles from its SEGA Genesis library, Streets of Rage, Bio-Hazard Battle, Gain Ground, Comix Zone and Bonanza Bros. will soon be available on the Wii Shop Channel for download and play on the Wii's Virtual Console. Prices start at 800 Wii Points for SEGA Genesis titles.
• Streets of Rage - This city was once a happy, peaceful, place…until one day, a powerful secret criminal organization took over. This vicious syndicate soon had control of the government and even the police force. The city has become a center of violence and crime where no one is safe. Amid this turmoil, a group of determined young police officers has sworn to clean up the city. Among them are Adam Hunter, Axel Stone, and Blaze Fielding. They decided to put their lives on the line and take back their city through their special hand-to-hand combat abilities. They are willing to risk anything, even their lives, on the Streets of Rage.
• Bio-Hazard Battle - An army of biogenetic mutants has gone haywire, terrorizing the world and putting the future of the planet in jeopardy. It's up to you to take on the mutant menace and restore order and harmony to the planet Avaron, before it's too late! Through eight levels of intense action, you'll be up against some of the nastiest, most vile creatures you've ever seen, things like mega amoebas, nuclear crabs, electroworms, and gut-grabbing insects. You have four different Bioship fightercraft to choose from, each with unique handling capabilities and weapons systems. Your mission will take you through cavernous mineshafts, the ocean floor, and the Biowar Lab, each populated by heinous creatures that only man could have created. Hop into your fightercraft and save Avaron from certain doom.
• Gain Ground - It's the 31st Century, and science and technology have progressed to the point that the human race is approaching perfection: no war, no poverty, and no conflict. With nothing to worry about, the human race seems destined to live forever in harmony; but what if Earth came under attack? By this point in time, people did not know how to cope with problems or conflicts, and had completely lost their survival instincts. In response to this, the United Earth Government created the Gain Ground system, a war simulator that would help humans rediscover their lost instincts. After several terrible malfunctions, the creators became prisoners in their own creation. Now it's up to you and two courageous comrades to go into the Gain Ground system, rescue your fellow humans, and destroy the system. You'll battle through different periods in history as you revive your survival instincts, while trying to stay alive!
• Comix Zone - Sketch Turner is an artist in New York City. One day while Sketch is drawing, there is a huge thunderstorm and a bolt of lightning hits Sketch's image, bringing it to life. That image is Mortus, a megalomaniac mutant who wants to become real and rule the earth. Mortus magically transports Sketch into the pages of his comic book so that he can end his creator's life and become real. Inside the comic book, Sketch meets General Alissa Cyan, who believes he is a superhero that came to save their post-apocalyptic world from the evil brought by Mortus' hand. Now that he's a comic book superhero, Sketch can fight like a one-man mercenary platoon!
• Bonanza Bros. - Mobo and Robo Bonanza are enjoying their favorite television show when the picture crackles and the shadowy figure of a mysterious stranger appears on screen. This figure asks them to collect certain items that he has placed inside various buildings to test his security force. If they return the items successfully, Mobo and Robo will be rewarded. The two of them agree to get the job done in just three minutes, however, they don't know yet that each building is packed with security guards who will raise the alarm if they are caught red-handed and a huge reward will be given out if Mobo and Robo are apprehended. Fortunately both Mobo and Robo are equipped with bullets that can knock the guards unconscious for a few seconds. Help the infamous Bonanza Bros. infiltrate a number of different locations ranging from banks to mansions to casinos and don't get caught!
All five games are set for Q1 of this year.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Monday, January 8 2007 19:31 PM
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New Nanostray 2 Trailer [ Shin'en ]
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Shin'en has released a new trailer for its upcoming DS shoot-em-up Nanostray 2. The trailer shows off the new horizontal-scrolling sections, as well as the game's much-improved graphics. You can check it out below by downloading it to save to your hard drive, but you need the divx codec (available here) to view it.
Video:
Nanostray 2 Trailer (10.2 MB)
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Monday, January 8 2007 12:13 PM
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Today Nintendo adds three new classic games to the popular Wii video game system's Wii Shop Channel. The games go live at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo adds new games to the channel every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:
Gradius (NES, 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): Across the galaxy, there exists a distant planet known as Gradius. Gradius' peaceful existence has been brought to an end by an intense space invasion by a race known as the Bacterion. To save the planet, the hyperspace fighter Vic Viper has been deployed to fight the Bacterion invasion. Players pilot the Vic Viper through seven stages, shooting and dodging through deadly obstacles, while using various power-ups, including missiles, lasers, options and shields. The Vic Viper's target is the enemy fortress, Xaerous. The only way to end the war is to plunge deep through the enemy forces and destroy its very core.
Soldier Blade (TurboGrafx16, 1 player, 600 Wii Points): A new shooter in the "Star Soldier" tradition. Players play as an SIA (Special Interception Airforce) pilot flying the heavy assault fighter "Soldier Blade." Players face the Zeograd invasion force with weapon attacks that change each time they grab a power-up item. Players can unleash three different kinds of attack depending on the color of the power-up item. New features, such as the "Gunbody" option for avoiding enemy attacks and the "Burst Out" system (which has a different effect depending on the power-up level), add a strategic element that requires players to make snap decisions about which items to grab and when to use special attacks. Awesome boss battles await players at the end of each operation. Playing in "CHALLENGE" mode requires players to try to get as many points as they can in a limited amount of time.
Dungeon Explorer (TurboGrafx16, 1-5 players, 600 Wii Points): Dungeon Explorer is a multiplayer action/role-playing game where up to five players can play at the same time. The story takes place in underground dungeons. Players can choose from eight different character types: Fighter, Thief, Warlock, Witch, Bishop, Elf, Bard or Knome. Depending on the character, the types of magic, attack strength and movement will all vary. To survive, players most know all about their enemies' weaknesses. Players also must know about the special attributes of each magic spell and use them to their greatest advantage. In team-play games, working together is the key to victory. Any combination of Wii Remotes and Nintendo GameCube controllers can be used in multiplayer games.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Monday, January 8 2007 9:18 AM
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Nyko Announces Wii Peripheral Lineup [ Nyko ]
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Nyko announced today their product lineup for the Nintendo Wii. With a host of brand-new options for battery charging, wireless gaming, and high-quality video, Nyko aims to stand at the forefront of the Wii accessory market. Nyko’s products for the Nintendo Wii will debut at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Nyko’s Charge Station for Wii enables gamers to simultaneously charge two Wii remotes, maintaining a steady supply of power with two additional rechargeable NiMH batteries. The charging dock allows the user to easily keep 2 Wii-Remotes charged at all times by plugging into any wall outlet. The dock has convenient and easy to read LED indicator lights, as well as a 6 foot power cord that allows the unit to be conveniently placed in even the most crowded entertainment areas. For those active gaming sessions, the Charge Station for Wii also includes two rubberized battery covers to make sure even the most energetic gamer keeps a grip on the Wii-Remote. The Charge Station for the Nintendo Wii will has a suggested retail price of $29.99.
For the ultimate in convenience and performance, Nyko’s Wireless Sensor Bar provides a neat, obstacle-free gaming environment. With the Wireless Sensor Bar, Wii gamers can play up to 25 feet away from their television with no wires or cords. The Wireless Sensor Bar can be placed anywhere the consumer wishes, making it ideal for wall-mounted televisions and projectors. The product features up to 30 hours of battery life on four AA batteries (included), and also includes an optional built-in battery saving function which emits an audible alarm when the Wireless Sensor Bar has been left idle for a user-determined amount of time. The Wireless Sensor Bar for the Nintendo Wii will have a suggested retail price of $19.99.
To meet the needs of consumers demanding the best in visual performance from their Nintendo Wii, Nyko is proud to offer the HD-Link for Wii. The HD-Link provides a crystal clear image at a resolution of up to 480p. The cable also includes high-quality audio cables, providing realistic immersive sound. The HD-Link is 8 feet long to accommodate any entertainments setup and is shielded to provide interference-free performance. The HD-Link for the Nintendo Wii has a suggested retail price of $19.99.
All in all, these all sound really good. The wireless sensor bar should be perfect for those with projection TVs, and the Charge Station should be great for just about anyone. If you're cool with using third-party products, these might all be great buys.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Sunday, January 7 2007 14:29 PM
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Today, my good friend and business partner turns 23. Last year, not only did he forget my birthday, but so did everyone else. So after he got out of work today he messaged me and asked if this was my cruel joke to "get back at him." So I played along and told him of course it is; seeing as how I'm such a cold heartless fucker. But to be honest, I forgot. Yup, I completely forgot. Oops. I think when this happened on my birthday I was promised a dinner. So I think I will extend that same courtesy. But then again, I'm thinking now, and I don't think I ever got my dinner. Now that it's been a couple years since you passed the last good age milestone, does it feel like birthdays are just a burden now. There's nothing to look forward to anymore, you just keep getting older. Maybe we should just start getting drunk; not with Marlow though. I don't want to hear how I pour my beer wrong anymore.
Matthew Silver
-- Posted on Saturday, January 6 2007 21:09 PM
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Gamepro Expo Becomes E for All Expo [ IDG ]
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IDG World Expo today announced the official name of its newest event: “Entertainment for All Expo" (E for All Expo), scheduled for October 18-20, 2007, at the Los Angeles Convention Center. The name replaces “GamePro Expo" – a placeholder while the company held a naming contest. More than 3000 entries were submitted on popular video game site GamePro.com. The winning entry was proposed by California resident Dante Padre.
The new name highlights the show’s focus on entertainment and its openness and accessibility to the public. Building on momentum and pent-up demand that has grown within the consumer audience for all things related to computer and video games, event organizers anticipate its mid-October dates will launch an early holiday shopping season for the industry. The new name also reflects the cross-pollinization between traditional and digital entertainment – the reason behind establishing the show in Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world.
“E for All Expo" has been endorsed by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), the U.S. association exclusively dedicated to serving the business and public affairs needs of companies that publish video and computer games for video game consoles, personal computers, and the Internet. For more information about “E for All Expo" or to register for updates about the event, please visit EforAllExpo.com.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Friday, January 5 2007 14:34 PM
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Nintendo DS owners will finally have a Naruto game to call their own. TOMY Corporation and D3Publisher today announced the upcoming release of NARUTO: Ninja Council 3 for the Nintendo DS. The game is based on episodes from VIZ Media's hit anime series and will feature mission-based gameplay for up to four players. The ninja action game utilizes an interchangeable attack system allowing players to combine attack techniques from all available characters in the mission to increase their chance of success.
Using the new interchangeable attack system, players select a main character to complete the mission and then customize their attack scheme by selecting special techniques from other available characters -- increasing their chance of success by combining the best techniques for the mission. Players can activate special attacks using the Nintendo DS stylus on the touch screen or by blowing into the microphone.
Just like a true ninja, in NARUTO: Ninja Council 3, players will have to protect, defend or defeat as they train hard to perfect their skills in order to progress through the ranks in over 40 missions ranging in difficulty from moderate to challenging. Up to four players (wireless) can choose from over 20 different characters with four different playing modes including Timed Mode, Scroll Collection Mode and Head-to-Head Versus Mode.
Naruto: Ninja Council 3 ships for the DS this coming spring. Oh yeah. Believe it.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Friday, January 5 2007 14:30 PM
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Nintendo has decided to grace us today with logos and boxarts for several upcoming games including:
Hotel Dusk: Room 215 (DS, January 22)
Diddy Kong Racing DS (DS, February 5)
Final Fantasy VI Advance (GBA, February 5)
Wii Play (Wii, releasing February 12 in US)
Mario Party 8 (Wii, March 5)
Wario: Master of Disguise (DS, March 5)
Custom Robo Arena (DS, March 19)
Images:
Hotel Dusk: Room 215 Logo
Hotel Dusk: Room 215 Boxart
Diddy Kong Racing DS Logo
Diddy Kong Racing DS Boxart
Final Fantasy VI Advance Logo
Final Fantasy VI Advance Boxart
Wii Play Logo
Wii Play Boxart
Mario Party 8 Logo
Mario Party 8 Boxart
Wario: Master of Disguise Logo
Wario: Master of Disguise Boxart
Custom Robo Arena Logo
Custom Robo Arena Boxart
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Friday, January 5 2007 12:21 PM
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Animal Crossing Headed to Wii - New Info [ WiI Café ]
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A brief chat with a local Nintendo rep led me to some interesting new facts - most notably that Nintendo is hard at work on Animal Crossing for the Wii (no surprise there, but it's good to know it's coming). I didn't get too many details from the guy, but what I can tell you is that it will most definitely be online enabled, just as its DS counterpart was and GameCube counterpart should have been. As far as classic games that were included in the original, no official decision has been made yet as to if they'll be the Wii version. The coolest little bit of info was the fact that the game will actually connect into your Forecast channel so that the game's weather will actually reflect what's going on outside. No release date was specified, but the rep I talked to expected that we should be getting it at some point this year.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Thursday, January 4 2007 19:39 PM
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Welcome to what promises to be a momentous year in Nintendo gaming.
If you thought 2006 was a stunner with the arrival of the Nintendo DS Lite, Wii, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess and many more greats, 2007 looks set to top all that - even in the first few months.
Whether you're a long-time Nintendo gamer or received your first system for Christmas, there's something for everyone in the year ahead.
And you don't have to wait long to get your hands on new games for your Wii or Nintendo DS, because the new releases are only days away…
January
WarioWare: Smooth Moves (Wii, January 12) - What's wacky and will have you twisting, turning, waving and even hula-hooping with your Wii Remote? Wario's back with more than 200 crazy microgames made specifically for Wii, for up to 12 players to enjoy.
Children of Mana (Nintendo DS, January 12) - Role-playing game masters Square-Enix return to their roots in the latest instalment of the classic Mana series of action-RPGs. Go it alone or join with up to three friends wirelessly.
Star Fox Command (Nintendo DS, January 26) - The Star Fox series blasts onto Nintendo DS! Part action shooter, part turn-based strategy game, Star Fox Command puts an armada of ships under your touch screen control.
Actionloop (Nintendo DS, January 26) - Puzzle games don't come any faster and more furious than this! Use the stylus to flick the magnetic marbles into like-coloured groups, testing your brainpower and reactions in equal measure.
February
Magical Starsign (Nintendo DS, February 9) - An out-of-this world, astrological adventure! Journey across the galaxy to find missing members of a magic academy and their teacher, using spells that grow more powerful when stars are in alignment.
Excite Truck (Wii, February 16) - Grip the Wii Remote like a steering wheel and boost, swerve and jump your way across wild terrain that morphs beneath your wheels. As the name implies, Excite Truck is a wild ride.
Kororinpa (Wii, February 23) | |
