Today's Special Archives: March 2007

News Archives Index NiGHTS Wii Confirmed With Scans - UPDATED AGAIN [ Maxi Consolas ] Portuguese gaming mag Maxi Consolas has finally blown out the long-rumored and hinted NiGHTS into Dreams sequel planned for the Wii. According to the mag, the game will be (for the moment) a Wii exclusive. Not only will the game's main character, Nights, be making a return, but Claire and Elliot, playable characters in the Saturn original, will also be involved. The game will also feature a two-player mode as well as some online features. We'll have more on the game as it becomes available. For now, check out the gorgeous-looking scans below. Update: Our colleagues at Play Nintendo have translated the Maxi Consolas interview. Some further information on the title is available over there. Click here to read their translation. Update 2: Famitsu has revealed the official title of the game on their website: NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams. The game will be out in Japan this winter. To check out the logo for yourself, click here. Images: NiGHTS Wii Scan 1 NiGHTS Wii Scan 2 NiGHTS Wii Scan 3 Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, March 30 2007 13:30 PM [Top] Smackdown vs. Raw 2008 Heading to Wii and DS - UPDATED [ IGN Wii ] A while back, we reported that THQ was set to bring WWE games back to Nintendo platforms, with new releases on the Wii and Nintendo DS. We queried whether the games would be modified versions of the Smackdown vs. Raw series, or perhaps brand-new titles entirely. Tonight, we can reveal that it's the former. WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2008, expected to be revealed tomorrow, will feature numerous upgrades from previous versions, including individual Superstar Fighting Styles, and a brand-new Struggle Submission System, allowing players to individually adjust the pressure of their submission holds. In an interview with IGN, THQ Creative Manager Cory Ledesma revealed some additional details on the title. The game will feature revamped AI and animations from previous Smackdown vs. Raw titles, as well as a combined General Manager and Season mode called "WWE 24/7". The game will also feature a roster consisting of several major WWE stars like Triple H, Kane, The Undertaker, and Bobby Lashley, as well as the standard robust Create-A-Wrestler mode. Online play will also be an important feature in the "next-gen versions of the game", which hopefully also includes the Wii version. Oddly enough, no details were made in regards to the gameplay differences the Wii and DS editions may have in comparison to other versions of the game, except for that the DS version will "not be a traditional wrestling title". Expect more on this huge new title as it becomes available. UPDATE: A video has been posted on IFilm from a press conference showing off exactly how the Wii build of the game will work. According to the video, players will be able to do seemingly everything with simple motions on the Wii Remote and Nunchuk, such as punches, grapples, special moves, and even taunts such as the DX crotch chop. Check it out here. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, March 29 2007 21:20 PM [Top] Two Capcom Classics Heading to Virtual Console [ ESRB ] The ESRB has once again broke the news of some previously-unannounced Virtual Console games making their way to Wii - both come from Capcom, and both are for the SNES. First up is the classic beat-em-up Final Fight, where players play as either agile Cody or tough-man Haggar in order to defeat the evil Mad Gear gang. Next up is Street Fighter II Turbo, the first of many re-releases of the classic, previous-released-on-VC fighter. In Turbo, players can increase the game speed to best suit their fighting style, and can also play as the previously-unplayable boss characters. Expect these games to hit the VC sometime in the future. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, March 29 2007 20:53 PM [Top] RE4 Set To Be Wii-Made? [ GameStop ] Our buddies at GoNintendo have stumbled upon an interesting new listing at GameStop's website, which has since been taken down, for "Resident Evil 4 Wii Edition", set to be released on June 25th. Apparently, it's looking as though one of the GameCube's best titles (as well as one of the greatest games ever made), is set for a re-release on the Wii, possibly with added Wii Remote controls, and the possible inclusion of previously PS2-exclusive content. Even better, the game will apparently retail for only $29.99. Keep in mind this is only unconfirmed news at this point, but there's no question how huge this would be if it becomes confirmed. More as it breaks. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, March 29 2007 18:19 PM [Top] Nintendo to Anchor E For All [ Nintendo/IDG World Expo ] IDG World Expo today announced that Nintendo of America has signed on as an anchor exhibitor for IDG World Expo's newest event: Entertainment for All Expo (E for All), scheduled for October 18-21, 2007, at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Nintendo leads an A-list of game companies signing on for a show that is rapidly shaping up to be the premiere event in interactive entertainment. Entertainment for All Expo (E for All) is a new event created for people who are passionate about video games and everything related. The Expo was launched in response to strong demand within the consumer audience for an opportunity to see and try new products before they reach store shelves. Event organizers anticipate its mid-October dates will launch an early and successful holiday shopping season for the industry. E for All Expo will offer consumers the opportunity to test-drive the latest in games and gadgetry, as well as purchase products they enjoyed over the course of the 4-day event at on-site retail facilities. Additional attractions are in the works, including high-profile videogame tournaments; job fair/networking opportunities; and the acclaimed Video Games Live concert. In addition to the Expo at the Los Angeles Convention Center, the event will take advantage of soon-to-be-expanded LA Live/NOKIA Theatre area directly adjacent. With Nintendo headlining the show, and E3 like it's gonna generally suck, E For All is looking more and more like the new show to be at. We'll keep you posted on any new developments. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Thursday, March 29 2007 13:02 PM [Top] Historic Day As Mario And Sonic Team Up [ Sega ] SEGA and Nintendo today made a historical announcement that two of the biggest icons in the entertainment industry, Mario and Sonic, are joining forces to star in Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games. Developed for the Wii video game system and the Nintendo DS system, this momentous agreement marks the first time these two renowned stars have appeared together in a game. Published by SEGA across Europe and North America, and published by Nintendo in the Japanese market, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games will be available for Holiday 2007. In Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games, players will compete in events that take place in environments based on the official venues of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. Using a supporting cast of characters from the amazing worlds of both Mario and Sonic, gamers will be able to compete as or against a range of lovable personalities including Mario, Sonic, Luigi, Knuckles, Yoshi, Tails and more. Innovative usage of the Wii and DS control systems to maneuver a favorite character will allow players to race the likes of Mario and Sonic down the 100m track, engage in exhilarating rallies in table tennis and churn water in a swimming heat, all while competing for the much sought after gold medal. Images: Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games Promo Image Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, March 28 2007 12:36 PM [Top] Ninja Gaiden Comes to DS [ Famitsu ] It looks like one of the Tecmo's biggest franchises is set to make a DS debut. The latest issue of Famitsu reveals that Tecmo is set to release Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword onto Nintendo's handheld, which will be developed by Tomonobu Itagaki's Team Ninja. The game is described as a “3D polygon action game", which means the game is likely a 3D action adventure, or a 2D one with 3D graphics. Either way, it's great to see a high-profile, mature title hit the console. Expect more info, and possibly scans from Famitsu, soon to come. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, March 28 2007 2:01 AM [Top] Practically Confirmed: NiGHTS Coming to Wii [ GameReactor ] Looks like it's official. The cover for the latest issue of German gaming mag GameReactor confirms that one of Sega's most critically-acclaimed titles, NiGHTS into Dreams, will be seeing a rebirth on Wii. According to the cover, which you can check out below, the game will be a brand-new, fully original game, and already promises to be one of the best experiences on the system. Expect more on the game as more is revealed, including if and when Sega makes the game official. Images: GameReactor Cover - NiGHTS Revealed! Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, March 27 2007 17:30 PM [Top] One New VC Game This Week; New Confirmations from Sega [ Nintendo ] Just one new game added to the Virtual Console today, but we also get confirmations of three new upcoming games from Sega. Romance of the Three Kingdoms IV: Wall of Fire (Super NES, 1-8 players, 800 Wii Points): Romance of the Three Kingdoms IV is a tactical simulation game in which the player takes the role of a ruler seeking to unite China in the era of the three kingdoms of Wei, Wu and Shu. The role of the ruler is to command a range of officers with differing characteristics - some cunning strategists, others brave warriors - and strengthen the military might of his or her kingdom. Foreign policy, involving forming alliances with certain kingdoms and hatching plans to weaken others, will play a major role in this process. Once players have developed a powerful enough military, it will be time to expand their borders through military conquest. Ultimate victory will only be achieved once all 43 cities in China lie within a player's control. And here's Sega's list of games that will be available "soon," but no specific dates were given: Virtua Fighter 2 - Virtua Fighter was the first 3D fighting game in the industry and introduced eight unique characters, each with their own martial arts style. In Virtua Fighter 2, the intrepid fighters return to the World Fighting Tournament. Take to the stage to see who will claim the championship title; will it be Lau Chan, Kage Maru, Wolf Hawkfield, Jeffry McWild, Akira Yuki, Jacky Bryant, Sarah Bryant and Pai Chan. Alex Kidd in the Enchanted Castle - This classic title features Alex Kidd! Alex had given up hope that his kidnapped father, King Thor, would return to the kingdom on Planet Aries. When the news arrived that he was very much alive and being held captive on the planet Paperock, Alex raced to his rescue. Throughout 11 levels, players will battle enemies and avoid obstacles while winning coins that will buy you special items and vehicles. At the end of each level, players will encounter a boss and enter into a match of “Paper, Scissors, Rock.” Throw the right symbols and you’ll be ever closer to bringing King Thor home; throw the wrong symbols and you’ll be squashed beneath a heavy weight. Wonder Boy in Monster World - Monster World was a peaceful, happy place until one dark day when an army of BioMeka monsters invaded. Playing as a young man named Shion, gamers vow to defeat the hostile foes and make the land peaceful again. Attack enemies with swords and spears and guard against incoming projectiles with shields and armor. Travel through the many different regions of Monster World and talk to the townspeople, collect money to buy items, and gather a large variety of weapons and magic. As players progress, the weapons and equipment become more powerful, including suits of armor and boots. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Monday, March 26 2007 13:08 PM [Top] New VC Confirmations from ESRB [ ESRB ] The latest update to the ESRB Wii charts shows several games have gotten ratings for the Wii lately, including a few new (and recently released) Virtual Console games. Here's what we've got: Wii Shrek the Third - Activision - E10+ Tamagotchi: Party On! - Namco Bandai - E Ratatouille - THQ - E Super Paper Mario - Nintendo - E Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End - Buena Vista Games - T Virtual Console Splatterhouse - Namco, TurboGrafx-16, 1988 - T Double Dungeons - Hudson, TurboGrafx-16, 1989 - E Beyond Oasis - Sega, Sega Genesis, 1994 - E Sonic Spinball - Sega, Sega Genesis, 1993 - E Tecmo Bowl - Tecmo, NES, 1990 - E Vectorman - Sega, Sega Genesis, 1995 - E Zelda II: The Adventure of Link - Nintendo, NES, 1987 - E Elevator Action - Taito, NES, 1983 - E The Legend of Kage - Taito, NES, 1985 - E Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Thursday, March 22 2007 22:39 PM [Top] Full Wii Opera Browser Coming in April - UPDATED [ Opera ] Opera and Nintendo today confirmed that the Opera-powered Internet Channel for Wii will be available in April 2007, rather than in late March as previously announced. The final release date in April remains to be determined. Opera and Nintendo are continuing to finalize what promises to be the ultimate Web surfing experience on the Wii console. The two companies are working closely together to meet user requests for browser features and to enhance the overall Wii Web experience. Update: After receiving substantial and helpful feedback from consumers, friends and family members, Nintendo developers have made a number of improvements to the final version of the browser, including: * improved zooming and scrolling * an improved zoomed font * shortened startup times * quicker access to "favorites" * an ability to hide the toolbar * buttons that will instantly type common preset letters, such as "www" or ".com" More details about these and other functions will be announced in the near future. The browser will remain free for Wii owners to download through the end of June. After June, users who haven't already downloaded the Opera browser can go to the Wii Shop Channel to download it for 500 Wii Points. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, March 22 2007 12:40 PM [Top] New Spider-Man 3 (DS) Screens and Info [ Activision ] Based on the upcoming feature film from Sony Pictures Entertainment’s Columbia Pictures, Spider-Man 3 allows players to experience the actions of heroic red suit Spider-Man, and for the first time ever, his darker, more mysterious black suit persona. Set in a 3D side scrolling world and delivering complete touch screen handling, players must draw upon Spider-Man’s vast array of moves, attacks and upgrades as they choose their path and embark on a wide variety of city-based missions and multiple movie-based and original story arcs. Additionally, Spider-Man 3 for the Nintendo DS features local wireless multiplayer gameplay featuring with a variety of modes enabling awesome two-player head-to-head challenges like Brawler, Hot Potato, Target Practice, and Combo Challenge. Check out the first screens from the DS version of the game below. Images: Spider-Man 3 (DS) Screenshot 1 Spider-Man 3 (DS) Screenshot 2 Spider-Man 3 (DS) Screenshot 3 Spider-Man 3 (DS) Screenshot 4 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, March 22 2007 12:39 PM [Top] EA Boogies Down on Wii [ Electronic Arts ] Electronic Arts announced today that Boogie – an all new intellectual property in development at EA Montreal will be released exclusively for the Wii worldwide in 2007. Boogie is a unique music/rhythm-based game that takes advantage of the innovative Wii controls to get gamers off their couch, playing and dancing to a new beat. Boogie will have gamers dancing, singing and starring in their own music videos. Players can also choose and customize different characters in the game to best show off their dancing style and karaoke skills. With innovative gameplay that perfectly matches the unique Wii controls, Boogie is the ultimate videogame party package. Check out the first screenshots of the game below. Images: Boogie Screenshot 1 Boogie Screenshot 2 Boogie Screenshot 3 Boogie Screenshot 4 Boogie Screenshot 5 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, March 22 2007 12:21 PM [Top] Solve Mysteries On Wii [ The Adventure Company ] The Adventure Company today announced that its popular PC title Agatha Christie: And Then There Were None is under development for the Nintendo Wii, set to be released in November 2007. Written by Agatha Christie, the world’s best-known mystery author and Queen of Crime, this classic story is brought to a new generation on the Nintendo Wii. Appealing to a broad audience, this platform opens the door for adventure games on console. Using the Wii’s original controller, gameplay in traditional PC adventure games can be taken to a whole new level of interactivity. For instance, players will have the freedom to control their character’s actions, such as using a digging motion to unearth clues, or spinning the handle of a safe using the Wiimote; and the introduction of timed puzzles where, for example, players must race up a set of stairs from a boat docked below. The storyline revolves around ten people, all strangers to each other, who are invited to a lavish estate on an isolated island. Through a recording, their mysterious host accuses each of his ‘guests’ of murder and proceeds to exact justice by becoming judge, jury and executioner… The tension mounts and dark secrets are revealed as one-by-one the number of guests systematically dwindles according to the ingenious plan of the unseen killer. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, March 20 2007 13:03 PM [Top] Virtual Console Monday Releases [ Nintendo ] Here are this week's Virtual Console releases hitting the US. The biggest disappointment of the week is the lack of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, already released on European and Australian Wiis - with the new movie coming out this weekend, hopefully we'll see the tie-in classic release next week. Anyway, here's what we do get: Excitebike (NES, 1 player, 500 Wii Points): Face crazy curves, hairpin turns, and daredevil jumps as you race toward the checkered flag and the Excitebike championship. Race against the clock or challenge an opponent. You must keep your bearings as you fly through the air and avoid getting clipped by other racers. Stay cool under pressure or your bike will overheat. If you get tired of racing on the circuit, create your own course in Design Mode. There you have access to all the ramps, mounds, bridges, and other obstacles Excitebike has to offer. Beyond Oasis (Sega Genesis, 1 player, 800 Wii Points): You are Prince Ali, who has discovered a buried gold armlet. This armlet once belonged to a wizard who waged a long war against the evil wielder of a silver armlet. The silver armlet was used to create chaos and destruction, while the gold armlet had the power to summon four spirits: the water spirit "Dytto," the fire spirit "Efreet," the shadow spirit "Shade," and the plant spirit "Bow." To stop the person who first discovered the ancient silver armlet and is again using it for evil, Prince Ali travels the land of Oasis, gradually acquiring the ability to summon the four spirits. Use your wits and speed to claim the silver armlet! SPLATTERHOUSE (TurboGrafx16, 1 player, 600 Wii Points): Rick and Jennifer, both parapsychology students at the local university, are visiting West Mansion, site of the research lab where the famed Dr. West conducted some of his most gruesome experiments. A sudden storm forces them to find shelter inside the mansion. Once inside, they are attacked by monsters. Jennifer is kidnapped and Rick is knocked unconscious. Hours later, Rick awakes to find himself covered in blood, with the Terror Mask stuck to his face. His only hope is to depend on the ancient powers of the mask to give him the strength and courage to find Jennifer. Now Rick's fight has begun! Splatter your way through 7 stages of side-scrolling horror action. Armed with cleavers and shotguns, Rick must fight his way through the monsters of West Mansion and defeat the bosses at the end of every stage. The creepy music, gruesome monsters, gory action and shocking events leading up to the finale will keep you on the edge of your seat! Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Monday, March 19 2007 15:07 PM [Top] New Racing Franchise for Wii, DS [ System 3 ] System 3 will first launch a cutting-edge racing game based on the Ferrari Challenge series featuring real cars, real tracks and true Ferrari racing dynamics. The DS version will feature 4-player wireless play including adhoc play and game share, and the Wii version will fully support the unique control system offered by this system, including control by a Wii steering-wheel. The first preview of the Ferrari Challenge game by the international press will be held on June 23rd at the home of Ferrari, Maranello, Italy and will coincide with the finale of Ferrari's 60-year celebrations throughout which System 3 has been a major sponsor. Details of further titles from System 3 including "Ferrari Street Racer", featuring the whole range of Ferrari' cars will also be announced at the event. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Saturday, March 17 2007 16:27 PM [Top] Project Treasure Island Z Screens [ Capcom ] The other day we brought you news that Capcom was jumping aboard the Wii-wagon with Project Treasure Island Z. We now have the full press release and some images for you to look at direct from Capcom. Project Treasure Island Z (Working Title), an innovative, full-length puzzle adventure game that utilizes the unique control mechanics of the Wiimote and challenges gamers to “play different.” Capcom plans to release Project Treasure Island Z (Working Title) this fall. Legend has it that a revered pirate named Barbaros once stole the world’s treasure and hid it on a mysterious island. Though no one knows of its exact location, stories about the untold riches that lay in wait have been passed down through the ages, driving pirates from all walks of life to pursue the alluring prizes. One of these treasure seekers, a young apprentice pirate named Zack happens upon a mysterious talking skull, the skull of Barbaros himself. Barbaros promises to reveal the key to the island, if Zack will help to lift the curse he is under. Players will explore a variety of wondrous environments and stages, solving puzzles and interacting with the world in search of vast riches and the ultimate pursuit of becoming the greatest pirate the world has ever seen. Inventive gameplay mechanics and controller movements allow players to move and open objects, transform items, unlock new pathways and navigate through perilous stages based on a variety of themes including a jungle, ice temple, volcanic caves and more, each with their own sub-areas. Players will rotate handles, turn keys to open doors, play a piccolo and much more in order to solve the progressively difficult puzzle stages and collect Barbaros’s legendary treasures. PTI-Z is scheduled to hit Wiis in the US later this year. Images: Project Treasure Island Z Screenshot 1 Project Treasure Island Z Screenshot 2 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Saturday, March 17 2007 16:18 PM [Top] "World Exclusive" Game Reveal in Next ONM [ Official Nintendo Magazine ] The latest issue of Official Nintendo Magazine in the UK includes an interesting ad/preview page. The page shows a constellation of stars and includes the following text: "World Exclusive! Step back in time as a classic game makes a long overdue return" The text also states that the game will be for Wii. Our friends at GoNintendo have gotten hold of a scan of the page, as well as a mock-up of what might end up fitting in the constellation. If their theory proves true, the new game could be NiGHTS, an old Sega classic - keep in mind that this is still in the RUMOR stages for now, though. Click over to GoNintendo to check out the images. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Friday, March 16 2007 20:53 PM [Top] New Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Screenshots [ Nintendo ] Earlier today, Nintendo was forthcoming with all the details on the new features Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl will have when they're released next month. Now, they've topped it all off with a few brand new screens that you can check out below. The games will be available in stores on April 22nd. Images: Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Screenshot 1 Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Screenshot 2 Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Screenshot 3 Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Screenshot 4 Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Screenshot 5 Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Screenshot 6 Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, March 16 2007 0:31 AM [Top] NPD: Nintendo Dominates February [ NPD Group ] The NPD numbers from February are in, and Nintendo yet again is the top console maker for the month. The DS and Wii took the #1 and #2 spots respectively for the month, with the DS selling 485,000 consoles, while the Wii sold 335,000. The elder statesman that is the Game Boy Advance also put in a respective showing, finishing 6th with 136,000 units sold. Even more surprising than Nintendo's excellent sales was Sony's difficulties selling the PS3. The PS3 came in 7th place with only 127,000 consoles sold, even with the console, by many accounts, readily available. The PS2 and PSP fared better, finishing 3rd and 5th, while the Xbox 360 came in 4th. For games, the unsurprising big seller for Wii was Wii Play, selling 371,000 units, while The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess continued to be a big seller with 130,000 sold, while Wario Ware had a strong showing with 110,000 sold. The DS's big seller was Diddy Kong Racing DS, with 262,000 sold. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, March 15 2007 23:28 PM [Top] Two-Player Mario? [ Nintendo ] Nintendo's official page for Super Mario Galaxy has an interesting little bit of information. The page lists 1-2 players for the game, which, if it's not an error, would be the first indication that the game will support a second player, most likely Luigi in either a co-op or turn-based role (though that's a complete guess). We'll let you know if anything more comes up regarding this development. Click the source link to check out the page for yourself. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Thursday, March 15 2007 19:12 PM [Top] Pokémon Diamond/Pearl Wi-Fi Features Detailed [ Nintendo ] For a decade, fans of Pokémon video games have been entertained by exciting adventures, dramatic battles and hundreds of new Pokémon. Now the record-setting franchise is evolving with Pokémon Diamond Version and Pokémon Pearl Version, two new games available April 22 for the top-selling Nintendo DS. The in-depth games feature enhanced graphics that make Pokémon jump off the screen like never before. In addition to the 380 Pokémon available in previous versions, players can collect, train and battle more than 100 new Pokémon. After completing certain objectives, they can also import Pokémon from their Game Boy Advance games. Starting March 18, fans who pre-order a copy of either game will receive one of two collectible Pokémon styluses (retailer may require pre-order deposit). But the game's wireless abilities are what will have everyone talking - literally. Using a local wireless connection, up to eight trainers can connect and play. Both Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl are fully Wi-Fi compatible, meaning players can log onto Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, Nintendo's wireless gaming service, and compete with players all around the world. The microphone built into the Nintendo DS even lets players talk with friends before, during and after battles. Only players who have entered one another's Friend Codes can communicate using this Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, feature so players can control with whom they communicate. For kids, it's like having a cell phone that can only connect with their friends. The Nintendo DS Headset, sold separately, makes these conversations a breeze. Players can trade Pokémon or battle with players anywhere in the world, even without voice communication. The Global Trade Station allows players to post Pokémon they want to trade on a board and browse through Pokémon other players have posted. The Battle Tower allows players to battle with seven Trainers who have registered their player data in the Wi-Fi Battle Dome. After the battle, players can upload their data so other Trainers can battle them virtually. The more games a player wins, the higher his or her ranking. Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl feature the ability for players to control their Pokédex using the touch screen controls of Nintendo DS. As time passes in the real world, the look of the games changes. The Pokémon characters that appear change, and the evolution of some Pokémon is affected Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl will both hit stores on April 22nd. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, March 15 2007 12:37 PM [Top] Capcom Announces Treasure Island Z for Wii [ IGN Wii ] Capcom was one of the few companies to not give the Wii any substantial support, sans the previously announced Resident Evil: Umbrella Chronicles. However, that all changes today, as Capcom has announced its latest Wii title: Treasure Island Z. Players play as Zack, a young pirate, as he solves puzzles in order to obtain various treasures. Most of the puzzles use the Wii Remote in unique ways, as players will actually have to figure out how to use the devices the Wiimote represents before solving the puzzle. The game is being produced by Hironobu Takeshita, best known for his work on the Breath of Fire series, with character designs done by Eichiro Sasaki, who worked on the Power Stone franchise. Treasure Island Z hits the Wii in Japan later this year, and a US release has yet to be announced. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, March 14 2007 22:35 PM [Top] KOEI Announces Opoona [ 1UP ] It had to be inevitable that a game would use only the nunchuck and not the remote. Opoona looks to be that game. The game follows Opoona, a young man who is the descendant of the Cosmos Guards. While visiting the planet Landroll with his family, he is seperated from them. His parents wind up in the hospital with bad injuries, and his brother and sister are nowhere to be found. You earn a license and travel to different colonies to find out what happened. Art direction will be headed up by Shintaro Majima. Sachiko Yukimura, of Dragon Quest, will be planning director. Hitoshi Sakimoto, who did Final Fantasy XII's music, will be working on Opoona's as well. The game is controlled entirely by the nunchuck, so it will be interesting to see how KOEI turns this one out. Joe McCollum -- Posted on Wednesday, March 14 2007 17:02 PM [Top] Dave Mirra Goes Big on Wii [ Crave Entertainment ] Crave Entertainment today announced Dave Mirra BMX Challenge for Wii. The Dave Mirra video game franchise has sold more than 2 million units across all platforms, and the latest installment is sure to please fans with its arcade-like feel and diverse play. Dave Mirra BMX Challenge for the Wii video game system features, 12 different environments and 13 bikes to choose from. Each unique environment includes two race paths, and can be played in race or trick-oriented modes. Player characters are customizable, and BMX legend Dave is the featured rider. Dave Mirra BMX Challenge for Wii will feature several control options utilizing the unique Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers. Dave Mirra BMX Challenge for the Wii will be available June 2007 at a price point of $29.99. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, March 13 2007 17:04 PM [Top] Naruto Comes to Wii in North America [ D3Publisher ] The rumors have been confirmed, but they were only the tip of the iceberg! TOMY Corporation and D3Publisher today announced the upcoming release of NARUTO: Clash of Ninja MVZ (working title) for Wii -- a head-to-head fighting game with content created exclusively for the North American market! Anticipated to ship in Fall 2007, NARUTO: Clash of Ninja MVZ is based on episodes from VIZ Media’s hit anime series SHONEN JUMP NARUTO and will include characters that have never been featured in the hit Clash of Ninja game series. The game will take advantage of the Wii Remote in fast-paced ninja action for up to four players in nine different gameplay modes. The next generation in NARUTO games will include all new character animations, new special attack animations and for the first time new interactive environments. Developed by Eighting, NARUTO: Clash of Ninja MVZ takes advantage of the Wii system by allowing players to launch attacks with the Wii Remote using Ninja-like movements, and features special mini-games created exclusively for use with the Wii Remote. NARUTO: Clash of Ninja MVZ will include 14 characters -- including some that have yet to be featured in the Clash of Ninja game series. The fast-paced ninja action for up to four players will have nine different gameplay modes including Story Mode, Single Player and Multiplayer modes. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, March 13 2007 17:02 PM [Top] Wi-Fi Wii To Be Powered by GameSpy [ Nintendo ] GameSpy, a unit of Fox Interactive Media, announced today that it will provide multiplayer technology to game publishers developing titles for Nintendo’s Wii video game system. As part of an ongoing partnership with Nintendo, GameSpy has developed middleware technology to enable Wii titles to offer community features, such as friend rosters, advanced matchmaking capabilities and comprehensive rankings data. Pokémon Battle Revolution, the first Wii game to utilize the technology, launches on June 25, with multiplayer features similar to those leveraging GameSpy technology in several Nintendo DS titles. Prior to this development agreement for Wii, GameSpy and Nintendo brought gamers wireless community options for Nintendo DS. The service provided an innovative network for portable video games, allowing people around the world to link easily and wirelessly to play games. The partnership represented GameSpy’s first foray into portable games. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, March 13 2007 15:07 PM [Top] This Week's VC Releases [ Nintendo ] Tecmo Bowl (NES, 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): Tecmo Bowl pits the player versus the computer in 11-game, single-elimination playoff action. Players also can go head-to-head with a human opponent in action or coach mode. The player can select from 12 teams. On offense there are usually two run and two pass plays to choose from. The player takes control of the quarterback before the snap and then either hands off to the running back or works through his receiver progression from the top to the bottom of the screen. Defense consists of trying to guess which offensive play the opponent will select and then taking control of one of the defensive players before the snap. A very simple power-meter system is used for kicking field goals, extra points and punts. Sonic Spinball (Sega Genesis, 1-4 players, 800 Wii Points): Dr. Eggman (aka Dr. Robotnik) has taken over Mt. Mobius and turned it into a mechanical base. He is using energy from the magma flowing under the volcano to power his Veg-O-Fortress. He has the power to transform helpless animals into robots. Sonic the Hedgehog must take down this fortress to free the enslaved animals. The only way to make that happen is to trigger an eruption in the volcano it's built on. Sonic knows this can be done by removing the Chaos Emeralds that keep the volcano stable. Dr. Eggman, however, is also aware of the fragile relationship that exists between the emeralds and the mountain, and he's set up an elaborate Pinball Defense System to make sure the precious jewels don't go anywhere. Double Dungeons (TurboGrafx16, 1-2 players, 600 Wii Points): Double Dungeons is a dungeon role-playing game that features smooth-scrolling 3-D game play. Two players can play at the same time, which makes this game truly stand out from the rest. There are 22 unique scenarios, spread out among six levels. The higher the level is, the harder the scenario. Because each scenario is independent, players can choose to start the game from any scenario other than the final one. Players defeat monsters in each dungeon to gain experience while searching for the "key" that opens the door to the room with the boss. They buy equipment at the shop, team up with characters and defeat the boss to clear a scenario. Players must conquer all 21 scenarios from levels 1 through 5 to obtain passwords. If they obtain all of them, they make their way to the final scenario! Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Monday, March 12 2007 12:46 PM [Top] GDC: Aonuma Speaks on Zelda's Future [ IGN Wii ] As director of the Legend of Zelda series, Eiji Aonuma has built some of the greatest games of all time. Now hard at work at the series' latest installment on DS, Phantom Hourglass, Aonuma was also able to give some choice details in regards the future of Zelda on Wii. Aonuma confirmed that the first Zelda built especially for Wii would indeed be far superior graphically to Twilight Princess, as well as deeper controls meant specifically for the Wii Remote. Aonuma also revealed that orchestrated music, a feature taken out of Twilight Princess, will likely be back in the next Zelda for Wii. Lastly, Voice acting in a Zelda game was also brought up, but according to Aonuma, it remains to be seen if the series will ever include it. "It's all about gameplay, so it if benefits the gameplay then we would definitely consider including voice acting," To check out the whole interview, click the source link. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, March 9 2007 20:02 PM [Top] GDC: Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Trailer [ Nintendo ] Many months have passed since the events of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, and Link, Tetra and Tetra’s band of pirates have set sail in search of new lands. They come across a patch of ocean covered in a dense fog, in which they discover an abandoned ship. Tetra falls into danger when she explores the ship alone, and Link falls into the ocean when he attempts to rescue her. When he washes up unconscious on the shores of a mysterious island, he is awakened by the sound of a fairy’s voice. With the aid of this fairy, he sets off to find Tetra – and his way back to the seas he once knew. Check out the new trailer for the game below in Windows Media Player format. Phantom Hourglass is scheduled to release in the US in the holiday season of this year. Video: The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass GDC Trailer (19.5 MB) Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Friday, March 9 2007 16:10 PM [Top] GDC: Miyamoto's Keynote Address [ Nintendo ] Nintendo has graced us with a direct video of Shigeru Miyamoto's GDC Keynote speech, in which he highlighted Nintendo's success of late and Super Mario Galaxy. Click the source link or right here for the video, which can be watched in either Windows Media Player or Real Player at two different sizes. Images: Miyamoto at GDC Photo 1 Miyamoto at GDC Photo 2 Miyamoto at GDC Photo 3 Miyamoto at GDC Photo 4 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Friday, March 9 2007 16:07 PM [Top] Miis on Parade [ Nintendo ] Nintendo's customizable Mii caricatures for the Wii video game system have taken the country by storm. Millions upon millions of these caricatures now populate Wii systems worldwide and compete in games like Wii Sports and Wii Play. Early next week Nintendo of America is scheduled to roll out a new round of Wii commercials featuring these popular Mii caricatures. One commercial is set in a living room with a family, while the other takes place in a board room. Both commercials feature the “Wii would like to play” gentlemen from the original commercials and highlight the fun that people have customizing their own caricatures before using them in games. Video: Nintendo Mii TV Spot 1 Nintendo Mii TV Spot 2 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Friday, March 9 2007 15:33 PM [Top] GDC: Super Mario Galaxy Screens and Trailer [ Nintendo ] Earlier today at Shigeru Miyamoto's GDC keynote speech, Nintendo revealed a new trailer for the highly-anticipated Super Mario Galaxy for the Wii. You can check out the gorgeous-looking video below by downloading it to your hard drive, as well as some brand-new screenshots. The game should be out sometime later this year. Images: Super Mario Galaxy Screenshot 1 Super Mario Galaxy Screenshot 2 Super Mario Galaxy Screenshot 3 Super Mario Galaxy Screenshot 4 Video: Super Mario Galaxy Trailer (20.1 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, March 8 2007 22:38 PM [Top] GDC: Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Fact Sheet and Images [ Nintendo ] The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass (GDC two-player version) Launch Date: Holiday 2007 ESRB: RP (Rating Pending) Game Type: Action Adventure Players: 1 or 2 • Two players battle one another in a race to see who can collect the most Force Gems within a limited amount of time. • Players alternate between controlling Link and controlling three phantom guards. • When a player controls Link, he can race to key locations to grab Force Gems. When a player controls the three phantom guards, the mission is to keep Link from the Force Gems at all costs. Images: The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Single-Player Screenshot 1 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Single-Player Screenshot 2 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Single-Player Screenshot 3 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Single-Player Screenshot 4 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Single-Player Screenshot 5 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Single-Player Screenshot 6 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Multiplayer Screenshot 1 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Multiplayer Screenshot 2 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Multiplayer Screenshot 3 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Multiplayer Screenshot 4 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, March 7 2007 19:58 PM [Top] GDC: Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Fact Sheet and Images [ Nintendo ] Pokémon Diamond Version and Pokémon Pearl Version Launch Date: April 22, 2007 ESRB: E (Everyone) Game Type: Role-Playing Game Players: 1-8 (1-4 in Pokémon battles) • Collect, train and battle with more than 100 new Pokémon in the new Sinnoh region. • Players can battle and trade using Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. • Players can import Pokémon from their Game Boy Advance versions after completing certain objectives. Images: Pokémon Diamond/Pearl Screenshot 1 Pokémon Diamond/Pearl Screenshot 2 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, March 7 2007 19:54 PM [Top] GDC: Pokémon Battle Revolution Fact Sheet and Images [ Nintendo ] Pokémon Battle Revolution Launch Date: June 25, 2007 ESRB: RP (Rating Pending) Game Type: Battle Players: 1-4 • This is the first Pokémon title in the hugely popular series made for Wii, and the first Wii game to feature Wi-Fi competition. • This is also the first game to link Nintendo DS and Wii. When linked, players can use their DS units as controllers or import characters from Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl. • Players can battle in full 3-D using the Pokémon they raised in Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl. Images: Pokémon Battle Revolution Screenshot 1 Pokémon Battle Revolution Screenshot 2 Pokémon Battle Revolution Screenshot 3 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, March 7 2007 19:48 PM [Top] GDC: Super Paper Mario Fact Sheet and Images [ Nintendo ] Super Paper Mario Launch Date: April 9, 2007 ESRB: E (Everyone) – Comic Mischief, Mild Cartoon Violence Game Type: 2-D/3-D Side-Scrolling Action Platformer with RPG Elements Players: 1 • What at first glance appears to be a 2-D side-scroller ripped straight from the stylized pages of the Paper Mario universe soon turns into a hilarious dimension-shifting platformer possible only on Wii. • Players run through vibrant 2-D worlds, stomping on enemies and breaking blocks ... then, with the press of a button, they flip into 3-D. • Players can shake the Wii Remote to pull off stylish moves. Images: Super Paper Mario Boxart Super Paper Mario Screenshot 1 Super Paper Mario Screenshot 2 Super Paper Mario Screenshot 3 Super Paper Mario Screenshot 4 Super Paper Mario Screenshot 5 Super Paper Mario Screenshot 6 Super Paper Mario Screenshot 7 Super Paper Mario Screenshot 8 Super Paper Mario Screenshot 9 Super Paper Mario Screenshot 10 Super Paper Mario Screenshot 11 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, March 7 2007 19:44 PM [Top] GDC: Mario Strikers Charged Fact Sheet and Images [ Nintendo ] Mario Strikers Charged Launch Date: Summer 2007 ESRB: RP (Rating Pending) Game Type: Sports Players: 1-4 • Battle on the most unpredictable and hazard-filled pitches in the universe. New captain super abilities, sidekick skill-shots and charging the ball add a new level of depth to an already crazy soccer battle. • Compete against friends and other strikers in online matches over Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. • Flick the Wii Remote to slam foes into the walls. Playing as the goalie, point the Wii Remote at the screen to manually defend against Mega Strike kicks. Images: Mario Strikers Charged Screenshot 1 Mario Strikers Charged Screenshot 2 Mario Strikers Charged Screenshot 3 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, March 7 2007 19:34 PM [Top] GDC: Big Brain Academy Fact Sheet and Images [ Nintendo ] Big Brain Academy Launch Date: June 11, 2007 ESRB: RP (Rating Pending) Game Type: Mental Training Players: 1-8 • 15 new activities challenge brains in five categories: memory, analysis, number crunching, visual recognition and quick thinking. • Activities are designed around the Wii Remote, so players can have fun learning with one Wii Remote, or two for group competitions. • Players can exchange training data wirelessly with other players and compete against their save data. Images: Big Brain Academy Wii Screenshot 1 Big Brain Academy Wii Screenshot 2 Big Brain Academy Wii Screenshot 3 Big Brain Academy Wii Screenshot 4 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, March 7 2007 19:32 PM [Top] Wii US Online Confirmed: June 25 [ Nintendo ] Wii owners of all ages have discovered the fun of playing with a group of friends in the same room. Now for the first time players can compete with one another near and far with Pokémon Battle Revolution, a game of remarkable firsts: * the first Wii game to include Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection play * the first Pokémon game for Wii * the first game to link Wii and the hand-held Nintendo DS * and the first Wii game that can be controlled using Nintendo DS When Wii and Nintendo DS are linked, players can use their Nintendo DS units as controllers or import characters from the upcoming Nintendo DS games Pokémon Diamond Version or Pokémon Pearl Version. Pokémon Battle Revolution launches on June 25 exclusively for Wii and brings a dramatic new chapter to the Pokémon franchise, which has sold more than 155 million units worldwide. Pokémon Battle Revolution also serves as one of the standouts in Nintendo's second-quarter launch lineup, which the company revealed today in conjunction with the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco. Pokémon Battle Revolution will be joined by Super Paper Mario, the first Mario game for Wii; Mario Party 8, a multiplayer party game; and Big Brain Academy, a brain-training game that builds on the phenomenal success of the Nintendo DS brain games. These will add to the ever-growing library of Wii games, which will total more than 50 by the end of June. Nintendo DS fans will see the arrival of Pokémon Diamond Version and Pokémon Pearl Version, two surefire smash-hits. Nintendo's upcoming release schedule currently looks like this: Wii April 9: Super Paper Mario - Nintendo April: Prince of Persia Rival Swords - Ubisoft April: Bust-A-Move Bash - Majesco April: Bioncle Heroes - Eidos May 15: Mortal Kombat: Armageddon - Midway May 29: Mario Party 8 - Nintendo May: Tamagotchi Party On - Namco Bandai May: Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean at World's End - Disney Interactive May: Escape from Bug Island - Eidos May: Spider-Man The Movie 3 - Activision June 11: Big Brain Academy - Nintendo June 25: Pokémon Battle Revolution - Nintendo June: Cosmic Family - Ubisoft Spring: Heatseeker - Codemasters Q2: Legend of the Dragon - American Game Factory Summer: Shrek the Third - Activision Summer: Transformers the Game - Activision DS April 22: Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl - Nintendo May: Pirates of the Caribbean 3 - Buena Vista May: Dragon Ball Z: Harukanaru Densetsu - Atari May: Pony Friends - Eidos May: Diner Dash - Eidos May: Touch the Dead - Eidos June 4: Nintendo DS browser - Nintendo June 4: Planet Puzzle League - Nintendo June 11: Touchmaster DS - Midway June: Zendoku - Eidos Spring: Naruto Ninja Council 3 - Tomy Spring: Time Ace - Konami Spring: Death Jr. and the Science Fair of Doom - Konami Q2: Rune Factory: A Fantasy Harvest Moon - Natsume Summer: Shrek the Third - Activision Summer: Transformers: Autobots - Activision Summer: Transformers: Decepticons - Activision GBA Summer: Shrek the Third - Activision One thing to note: If the May 29 date holds for Mario Party 8, considering the first online game will be Battle Revolution in June, this can be taken as a confirmation that MP8 will not feature online play, as we had hoped. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, March 7 2007 18:29 PM [Top] Custom Robo Arena Fact Sheet [ Nintendo ] Custom Robo: the game of tomorrow. In the not-too-distant future, competitors battle customized robot warriors in holographic battle arenas. Victory is determined not only by fighting skill but also by how well Robo Commanders design their robot gladiators, so players need both brawn and brains to survive. * Players fight their way toward the Custom Robo championship, powering up their robo as they go. With hundreds of unique parts, there are literally millions of possible Custom Robo combinations, giving them limitless control over how they fight their battles. * Players can challenge their friends to one-on-one Robo battles anytime and anywhere using either local wireless or Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. * In Custom Robo Arena's RPG-style Story mode, players explore a vast futuristic city and learn about the world of Custom Robo as they battle their way to the Robo Cup championship. In the not-too-distant future, mankind relies on tiny, telepathically controlled robots to perform such dangerous tasks as deep-sea research, disaster relief and space exploration. These popular and easily customized "robos" also form the favorite sport of tomorrow: battling in the holographic arenas called "holosseums." Now that criminals have taken to using these mighty miniature machines as weapons, the Custom Robo phenomenon has grown into a problem as well as a pastime. The criminal syndicate Greybaum is developing a powerful robo that operates outside of the usual safety features, meaning that they could soon unleash a large-scale disaster in the form of a tiny robot. he bulk of Custom Robo Arena takes place in holographic battle arenas called "holosseums." Players pit their Custom Robos against one another in fast-paced, melee-style combat. Each robo can be outfitted with different parts, from arm-mounted guns and bomb launchers to specialized pod weapons that have their own unique behaviors. Some pods pursue the opponent, while others lie in wait for the enemy to draw near. Players customize their robots by swapping out weapons, legs and body frames to create the ideal combination of attack, speed and defense to suit their gaming styles. Outside of the battle arenas, Custom Robo Arena plays like a role-playing game. Players walk through the futuristic city setting and interact with other characters as they struggle to win the Custom Robo championship. Multiplayer pits two players against one another in a holosseum chosen by the players. They can play over local wireless or Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection and, if only one player has a game card, using DS Download Play. Players can speak to one another during a match using the DS microphone. Players also can trade dioramas with one another and show off poses they've created for their robos. Custom Robo Arena hits stores for the Nintendo DS on March 19th. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, March 7 2007 15:53 PM [Top] Star Fox 64 Wii-Bound [ ESRB ] The latest update to the ESRB website shows several new Wii games, including Nintendo's classic Star Fox 64, which confirms the game is complete for the Virtual Console and could launch at any time. The list includes some recent VC releases, as well as upcoming Wii games like Medal of Honor and Legend of the Dragon. Here's your list: Vigilante - Hudson - E10 Streets of Rage - Sega - E Star Fox 64 - Nintendo - E Bio-Hazard Battle - Sega - E Ghouls 'N Ghosts - Capcom - E10 Sword of Vermilion - Sega - E Medal of Honor: Vanguard - EA - T Legend of the Dragon - The Game Factory Aps - T Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, March 7 2007 13:12 PM [Top] Square-Enix Announces Project GB [ Square-Enix ] When one thinks about the companies best known for making simple games, Square-Enix's usually lavish RPG productions usually don't put themselves into the forefront. That all changed today when the company attended the Serious Games Summit, an event running concurrent with the Game Developer's Conference concentrating on games with non-entertainment purposes. Playing off of the popularity of the DS's numerous training games, such as Nintendo's own Brain Training series, Square-Enix has formed Project GB, a development house that will create what is essentially a game-development training tool for Nintendo DS, allowing gamers to create their own simplistic titles with basic code. Square-Enix executives stated that the title is still in development and may not be released to the public, but we'll keep you posted. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, March 6 2007 23:31 PM [Top] Wario: Master of Disguise Makes Identity Theft Fun! [ Nintendo ] Having your identity stolen can be serious business - unless Nintendo's greedy guy Wario is involved. Through the years, Wario has often had his eyes on gold coins and jewels. In the new Wario: Master of Disguise game for Nintendo DS, he steals the identity of a thief and becomes the man of a thousand faces (or at least eight). Players navigate the exotic locations in Wario's first platform game using the Nintendo DS buttons, but they use the touch screen to draw symbols on Wario to help him transform into his different disguises. Want to change into the laser-shooting Cosmic Wario? Draw a bubble helmet on his head. To change into Dragon Wario, just draw a long tail on him. Each of Wario's eight different disguises has different abilities to help him fight enemies and get past obstacles. Players must unlock treasure chests by completing minigames that increase in difficulty as the game progresses. And the game naturally showcases the same off-beat personality that has made Wario such a great character. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, March 6 2007 13:33 PM [Top] This Week's VC Releases Revealed [ Nintendo ] Elevator Action (NES, 1-2 players, 500 Wii Points): This is a multidirectional, scroll-type spy-action game that is a blast from the past. Control a spy and sneak alone into a building to steal the secret papers hidden there. Use a pistol, kicks, an elevator and even the lights to take out the building's guards. The gun-fighting action is full of thrills. Players will need speed and timing to get on the elevators, move between floors, steal the secret papers and escape from the basement parking lot. Super Ghouls 'n Ghosts (Super NES, 1 player, 800 Wii Points): The third game in the legendary Ghosts 'n Goblins series of video games, Super Ghouls 'n Ghosts follows Arthur in another quest to rescue the princess, his fair maiden and damsel in distress at large. Players take control of Arthur and defeat the creatures of the night to save the day once more. Discover what glory awaits those brave enough to take on the armies of Super Ghouls 'n Ghosts. Sword of Vermilion (Sega Genesis, 1 player, 800 Wii Points): Sword of Vermilion is about the role of Erik's son, who takes on a quest of revenge to defeat Tsarkon and free the world of Vermilion from evil. In the town of Excalabria, the people went about their business and tended to the fields. One day, vicious fighting broke out everywhere as the army of Cartahena, led by the wizard-king Tsarkon, swarmed all over the town. The townsmen were overwhelmed. The castle of King Erik V collapsed. Erik summoned his bravest, strongest and most faithful warrior, Blade, and gave him his infant son and an ancient family heirloom, the ring of wisdom. He ordered Blade to save himself and the child while the castle burned. Blade traveled to a small village named Wyclif, where he settled down and raised the child as his own son. Eighteen years later, the son of Erik begins his quest. Save the world of Vermilion and fulfill the prophecy of the Malaga fortune-tellers! Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, March 5 2007 11:36 AM [Top] No New Nintendo Info at GDC? [ Game|Life ] Looks like next week's Game Developer Conference may have just gotten a whole lot less interesting. According to Wired Magazine's Chris Kohler, Nintendo staff, including Reggie Fils-Aime, Perrin Kaplan, Satoru Iwata, and Eiji Aonuma will not be allowed to divulge any "forward-looking information" - namely, Nintendo's future plans for Wii and DS - due to a pending major stock trade in Japan. The trade would see all of the Nintendo stock owned by the Japanese government returned to the company, in order to increase the amount of shares available to stockholders. What this means is that anticipated speeches by Zelda producer Aonuma and Nintendo composer Koji Kondo will likely be free of worthwhile info on the future of Zelda, and Reggie, Kaplan, and Iwata will have little to say in the way of things like Wii online play and game release dates. However, Kohler is reporting that Shigeru Miyamoto's anticipated keynote speech, set to go off next Thursday, might not be affected by this. Either way, we'll get the final word when the Game Developer's Conference kicks off next week from San Francisco. Stay with Wii Café for all the latest developments as...and if...they break. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, March 2 2007 18:15 PM [Top] Wii Gets Vicious [ Vicious Cycle Software ] Vicious Cycle Software Inc. today announced that the Vicious Engine, the company's powerful middleware solution for cross-platform development, has joined Nintendo's Wii Third Party Tools Program. The Vicious Engine is a middleware solution for creating games across multiple platforms. The tool's ease of use and wide array of features separate the Vicious Engine from the competition as an approachable technology that does not require a large staff of full-time programmers to maintain. The Vicious Engine's capabilities allow developers to create games with ease and speed while still delivering top-notch quality. Point-and-click scripting, Wii Remote and Nunchuk integration, intuitive AI (Artificial Intelligence) development, straightforward platform conversion and the ability to powerfully render complex, dynamic scenery efficiently are just a few of the many features of the Vicious Engine. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, March 1 2007 22:49 PM [Top] Namco Announces Space Station Tycoon for Wii [ Namco Bandai ] Prepare for lift off as Namco Bandai takes gamers above the clouds and deep into the unknown in its newest Tycoon Simulation game, Space Station Tycoon for the Wii. Available Summer 2007, Space Station Tycoon allows gamers to become moguls in their own galactic empire as they customize stations all over the galaxy while maximizing their income. Space Station Tycoon follows the adventures of Shawn and his high-strung monkey sidekick Tam through pirate infested space, meteor fields, supernovas, and bizarre characters as they seek out fame and fortune. Expand your empire with an increasing number of stations and customize each one to attract business. Keep the customers happy and they will gladly spend their money. Throughout the game, players will encounter over 30 kooky characters; but watch out because unruly space pirates, starfish ninjas and mysterious voodoo-practicing chickens can disrupt your stations at anytime, bringing your tycoon empire to the ground. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, March 1 2007 13:16 PM [Top]