Today's Special Archives: May 2006

News Archives Index Wii Best of Show for 2006 Game Critics Awards [ Game Critics Awards ] The Wii has won. The Game Critics Awards, awards for the E3 expo voted on by representatives from various media sites, have chosen their Best in Show: the Nintendo Wii. The revolutionary game console from Nintendo beat out Gears of War, Spore, Bioshock, and Assassin's Creed for the honor, and marks the second time a Nintendo console has received the award, with the GameCube taking it home in 2001. The Wii also won for Best Hardware, beating out, among others, Sony's Playstation 3. In all, Nintendo had five big winners in the awards: more than any other company. Best Handheld Game went to Link's latest portable adventure, The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass for the Nintendo DS. Best Racing Game was won by Excite Truck, the upcoming Wii racer. And shock of all shocks, Wii Sports got the win in the Best Sports Game category, marking the first time in 3 years the award hasn't gone to the latest Madden game. Even more amazing, it beat not one, but TWO Maddens for the prize. For the full list of winners, hit the source link. Our congratulations go to Nintendo on a job well done at E3 2006. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 31 2006 23:41 PM [Top] DS Lite Street Date Broken! [ Cheap Ass Gamer ] It looks like Wal-Mart and Target have begun to sell DS Lites, June 11th street date be damned. Initially, one CAG user named Trakan found a ton of DS Lites at his local Target store. Since then, many other users have reported finding DS Lites for sale at other Targets and Wal-Marts. Not all stores seem to be selling them yet, but there seems to be a surprisingly high number breaking the date. Many other places (such as GameStop or EBGames) should be getting their shipments in today, so check all of your local game stores and see if you can snag the new beauty. Joe McCollum -- Posted on Wednesday, May 31 2006 12:58 PM [Top] Nintendo Dates Several Titles [ Nintendo ] Following an extremely successful showing at the 2006 Electronic Entertainment Expo, Nintendo will continue riding its surge of momentum through the rest of 2006. While the new Wii console will arrive in the fourth quarter of 2006, Nintendo has plenty of other things to keep people busy until then. Nintendo DS June 5: Big Brain Academy June 5: Magnetica June 11: Nintendo DS Lite June 26: Sudoku Gridmaster Aug. 28: Star Fox DS Sept. 18: Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team Sept. 25: Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2: March of the Minis Oct. 9: Clubhouse Games Oct. 30: Children of Mana Nintendo GameCube Sept. 25: Baten Kaitos Origins Oct. 9: Super Paper Mario Game Boy Advance SP Sept. 18: Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, May 30 2006 13:42 PM [Top] DS Lite Gets a Rumble Of Its Own [ Nintendo of Japan ] With the fact that the DS Lite's slim size forces games and periphrials plugged into the system's GBA game slot to protrude from the otherwise-sleek console, it was looking like fans of the DS's rumble pack were forced to look forward to their sexy new DS Lites being a lot less sexy. However, they can worry no longer, as Nintendo has announced, at least for Japan, that a brand-new rumble pack is being made especially for the DS Lite. The new device is much slimmer and resembles the plug that covers the GBA Slot on the DS Lite to protect the console from dust and preserve form factor. You can check out an image of new device by clicking the source link to arrive at Nintendo's Japanese site. No word yet on if the DS Lite Rumble Pack will be coming stateside, but we'll keep you posted. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 29 2006 3:27 AM [Top] Star Fox DS Gets a New Name [ Nintendo ] According to the official game page for Star Fox DS at Nintendo.com (which you can see by clicking the source link), Nintendo is renaming the game. The new name is Star Fox Command, which makes sense given that Fox McCloud's latest adventure mixes classic shooting gameplay with RPG strategy elements, making for a completely unique experience. The game blasts off into stores on August 28th. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, May 26 2006 12:13 PM [Top] Summon Night: Swordcraft Story Screenshots [ Atlus ] Atlus today announced the acquisition of the North American publishing rights to Summon Night: Swordcraft Story and Summon Night: Swordcraft Story 2, a pair of exciting action RPGs for the Game Boy Advance. Both games were published by Banpresto Co., Ltd. and developed by Flight Plan. Summon Night: Swordcraft Story is scheduled for release in July 2006, followed by Swordcraft Story 2 in October 2006. Summon Night: Swordcraft Story has not yet been rated by the ESRB. Images: Summon Night: Swordcraft Story Screenshot 1 Summon Night: Swordcraft Story Screenshot 2 Summon Night: Swordcraft Story Screenshot 3 Summon Night: Swordcraft Story Screenshot 4 Summon Night: Swordcraft Story Screenshot 5 Summon Night: Swordcraft Story Screenshot 6 Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, May 26 2006 1:29 AM [Top] Trauma Center: Second Opinion Screens and Info [ Atlus ] The sequel to the first surgery game for the Nintendo DS, Trauma Center: Second Opinion brings the thrill and tension of the emergency room to the Nintendo Wii. Returning to the role of ace surgeon Derek Styles, players will incise, suture, suction, and even defibrillate patients to get them back to perfect health. The game is set as a launch title for the Wii. Check out the first screens of the game below. Images: Trauma Center: Second Opinion Screenshot 1 Trauma Center: Second Opinion Screenshot 2 Trauma Center: Second Opinion Screenshot 3 Trauma Center: Second Opinion Screenshot 4 Trauma Center: Second Opinion Screenshot 5 Trauma Center: Second Opinion Character Art Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, May 26 2006 1:17 AM [Top] Wii Remote Gets Miked? [ IGN Wii ] After E3, Nintendo was consistant with statements that all of the Wii's secrets have yet to be revealed. The biggest of these rumored secrets was that, after the revelation that the controller would have a speaker built in, a microphone would be the next logical step. Now, Nintendo may have made a step forward towards confirming this, as they have registered the domain name wiikaraoke.com, which currently directs to the Nintendo of America official site. It's pretty clear from this that Nintendo is at least considering a possible Karaoke game for the Wii, which would, of course, need a mic. We'll keep you posted on this development. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 25 2006 19:25 PM [Top] New Rayman: Raving Rabbids Media [ Ubisoft ] Scheduled for current and next-generation video game consoles, Rayman Raving Rabbids also joins the line-up as an official launch title for Nintendo’s Wii, formerly known as Nintendo’s Revolution gaming system, and its innovative controller. Rayman Raving Rabbids is being developed by Ubisoft’s award-winning studio in Montpellier, France led by Michel Ancel, creator of the original Rayman game, the critically acclaimed Beyond Good & Evil and Peter Jackson’s King Kong: The Official Game of the Movie. Rayman Raving Rabbids marks the return of the iconic video-game hero, Rayman, in his funniest and zaniest adventure ever. When the world of Rayman is threatened by a devastating invasion of crazed, out-of-control bunnies Rayman must rise up against his furry foes to foil their wicked plans. Utilizing an array of amazing new abilities, and with the help of magical creatures, Rayman must break out all the moves to save his world from these delirious bunnies and their hare-raising antics. Check out the latest screens of the game below, as well as the official trailer of the Wii version of the game, and a "video interview" with Michael Ancel that you have to see for yourself. Images: Rayman: Raving Rabbids Screenshot 1 Rayman: Raving Rabbids Screenshot 2 Rayman: Raving Rabbids Screenshot 3 Rayman: Raving Rabbids Screenshot 4 Video: Rayman: Raving Rabbits Wii Version Trailer (39.9 MB) Rayman: Raving Rabbits "Video Interview" (19.8 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 25 2006 17:44 PM [Top] Reggie Promoted to King Shit [ Nintendo ] On the heels of the successful unveiling of the new Wii console, Nintendo of America Inc. today announced three key promotions at the executive level. Current President Tatsumi Kimishima is taking on the new role of chairman of the board and chief executive officer, while Reggie Fils-Aime is being promoted to president and chief operating officer from his current role as executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. Additionally, Mike Fukuda is being promoted from senior vice president of Business Development to executive vice president of Business Development. All promotions are effective immediately. Kimishima was appointed president of Nintendo of America in January 2002. He joined Nintendo at the company's headquarters in Kyoto, Japan, in 2000. He served as chief financial officer of The Pokémon Company in 2000 and president of Pokémon USA Inc. in 2001. Prior to joining Nintendo, he spent 27 years with Sanwa Bank of Japan, serving in various management positions. As chairman of the board and CEO of Nintendo of America, he will oversee the overall management of Nintendo of America and continue to serve on the boards of Nintendo of America and Nintendo Co., Ltd. In his new role as president and chief operating officer, Fils-Aime will lead the day-to-day operations of Nintendo of America while continuing to oversee the Sales & Marketing Division as the company prepares for the launch of Wii. He joined Nintendo of America in December 2003 to lead all Sales & Marketing efforts in the United States, Latin America and Canada. Prior to joining Nintendo, he served as senior vice president of marketing at VH1. He also has held key marketing positions with Guinness Import Co., Derby Cycle Corp., Pizza Hut, Panda Management Co. and Procter & Gamble. Congrats Reggie, we raise our coffee mugs to you. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Thursday, May 25 2006 15:53 PM [Top] Video Games Cut Surgical Errors [ CNN ] A new study has come out that further backs up video games being a good thing for surgeons. A study was done with 303 surgeons with a focus on laproscopic surgery. Those who played games such as Super Monkey Ball 20 minutes before surgery finished an average of 11 seconds faster due to less errors being made. I bet these guys can't wait for Trauma Center: Second Opinion. Joe McCollum -- Posted on Thursday, May 25 2006 13:54 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces Wii Price (Sort of) and Projected Sales [ Nintendo ] Following its overwhelming debut at E3 2006, Nintendo today announced the current fiscal year unit shipment forecast for its new home game system, Wii. Nintendo also confirmed that the price of the Wii system, which incorporates unique freehand control, will not exceed $250 in America, or 25,000 yen in Japan. The company plans to ship 6 million systems to retailers around the world between its launch in the fourth quarter of 2006 and the end of its fiscal year on March 31, 2007. The projections are part of a full-year financial forecast that sees growth of 18 percent in sales globally, based on anticipated continuing strong demand for the Nintendo DS portable game system, as well as a successful launch for Wii. The company also said it expects to sell 17 million Wii games in the period. Exact launch dates, identification of the launch library of titles and details on the unique Virtual Console aspect of Wii will be announced soon. While it is nice to know that Nintendo realizes to ship a lot of systems in the first six months I think they will also realize come about January, that six million is going to be far too few. As far as the price goes, throwing out two hundred and fifty like they did almost surely means that will be the launch price. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Thursday, May 25 2006 8:38 AM [Top] Miyamoto Interviewed By CNN [ CNN Money ] CNN Money videogame columnist Chris Morris got the opportunity to interview legendary Nintendo producer Shigeru Miyamoto on his thoughts of this past E3. In the interview, Miyamoto, discussed a variety of topics from his own feeling on the Wii name, to his thoughts on the PS3's "new" controller, to some more surprises the Wii's controller might have in store for gamers. (On the name "Wii") "When we first thought about it, myself and others felt that the name Revolution was very appropriate to what we were doing, but [Revolution] is a name that was almost threatening to non-gamers. It wasn't acceptable. So we thought this was more friendly and inviting." (On the PS3 Controller's Wii-esque functionality) ""That always seems to happen and we kind of expected it. It reinforces for us that we've been on the right path all along," he said. "We've gotten used to others copying what we do – and we're having a lot of fun with it. ... On the flipside, I suppose they must be worried about any other functionality we may announce." (On possible Wii shortages) "I think one challenge we might face is similar to the one we are facing with the DS in Japan. We will have to work to make sure that doesn't happen." (On the Wii's lacking graphical capabilities) "I think there's more than one way to get the attention of consumers. Obviously, graphics are what the other two companies are doing. I think what we'll do for Wii is show people open interaction. We're designing a system that's relevant to everyone in the house. Our hope is that Wii will be something different." Miyamoto also hinted at some other functionality the Wii might possess, including referencing the demo of Wii Sports Tennis played at Nintendo's media briefing between Miyamoto, Nintendo president Satoru Iwata, Nintendo of America VP of Sales and Marketing Reginald Fils-Aime, and contest winner Scott Dier. Each player (except Dier) had their face mapped into the game on their game character, and Miyamoto says that "we have some different ideas about how to take advantage of that functionality – and we will be sharing that type of functionality with third parties." A camera built into the Wii-mote, perhaps? Stay tuned for more as it breaks. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 25 2006 0:58 AM [Top] New Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshots and Info [ Smash Bros. Dojo ] The official Smash Bros. website has updated with some new screens and information on two of the game's new characters: Zero Suit Samus and Wario. The site reveals that Zero Suit Samus will not in fact be a seperate character, but a transformation of regular Samus under "certain conditions" (perhaps similar to Zelda/Sheik?). Obviously, she will lose Samus's strength and firepower in this form, but will make up for it with increased speed and a weapon which can transform from a gun into a whip, as seen in the trailer. As for Wario, the site reveals that he will have some "excessive movements", but does not say anything more than that. It also is revealed that his fart move (as seen in the trailer) will be called the "Wario Waft" and will build up over time, perhaps similar to Samus's, Marth's, and Roy's charged attacks. You can check out new screens of the two characters in action below. Expect more next week with info on the game's biggest new addition: Konami's Solid Snake. Stay tuned. Images: Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 1 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 2 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 3 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 4 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 5 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 6 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 24 2006 22:57 PM [Top] Game Critics Awards E3 2006 Nominees Announced [ Game Critics Awards ] The Game Critics Awards, yearly awards deciding the best of E3, have announced their nominees for the 2006 expo, and Nintendo has taken hold of their share of nods. The biggest of which is the Nintendo Wii, which was nominated for Best of Show. Surprisingly, the Sony Playstation 3 was not nominated in that category. The Wii was also nominated for Best Hardware, where it will face the PS3 and Nintendo's own DS Lite, among others. As for games, Super Mario Galaxy and Wii Sports amassed the most nominations for the Wii, with Galaxy getting nominatations in the Best Console Game and Best Action/Adventure Game categories, and Wii Sports getting nods in the Best Original Game and Best Sports Game categories. Nintendo's Elite Beat Agents also picked up a pair of nods, getting nominations for Best Puzzle/Trivia/Parlor Game (along with Wario Ware: Smooth Moves for the Wii), and Best Handheld Game (along with The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass). Excite Truck also picked up a nomination in the Best Racing Game category, and Madden NFL '07 for the Wii was nominated in the Best Sports Game category, where it will face the versions EA is making for the PS3 and 360. For the full list of nominations, click the source link. The awards will be announced on May 31st. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 24 2006 22:34 PM [Top] Japan Crazy for Wii [ Famitsu ] Japanese gaming mag Famitsu has surveyed Japanese gamers after the events of E3 2006 in order to gauge their feelings on the upcoming next-gen consoles and the titles being released for each. The resulted were, needless to say, surprising. Games most anticipated: 1. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (Wii, Nintendo) 2. Final Fantasy XIII (PS3, Square-Enix) 3. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots (PS3, Konami) 4. Dragon Quest Swords: The Masked Queen and The Tower of Mirrors (Wii, Square Enix) 5. Super Smash Bros. Brawl (Wii, Nintendo) 6. Super Mario Galaxy (Wii, Nintendo) 7. Final Fantasy III (NDS, Square Enix) 8. Monster Hunter 3 (PS3, Capcom) 9. Resident Evil (Wii, Capcom) 10 Halo 3 (Xbox 360, Microsoft) As you can see, the list is dominated by Wii games, with Resident Evil for Wii placed above Resident Evil 5 (not even on the list), and Final Fantasy III for the DS on there as well. Now check out the list for most-anticipated console: 1. Nintendo Wii - 68.8% 2. PlayStation 3 - 21.0% 3. Xbox 360 - 7.2% 4. Nintendo DS - 3.0% And there you have it. Could the Wii be posed for a next-gen takeover in the Japanese console market, a market dominated by Sony for the better part of a decade? It's going to be an interesting fall. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 24 2006 13:00 PM [Top] Mario vs Donkey Kong 2: March of the Minis [ Taste-Tests ] Carl now controls an army of toys! Today, Aisle Six, tomorrow, the world! Bahahahahahaha! Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, May 23 2006 23:14 PM [Top] Excite Truck [ Taste-Tests ] Eric keeps on truckin' with his look at Excite Truck for the Wii. Does the Wii-mote work well for racing games? Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 23 2006 22:59 PM [Top] Wario Ware: Smooth Moves [ Taste-Tests ] Eric does squats, spins, and the hula to bring you his impressions of Wario Ware for the Wii. We won't give you his email because we know none of you want to see that anyway. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 23 2006 22:42 PM [Top] Nintendo To Browse the Web with Opera [ IGN Wii ] Nintendo announced at E3 that they were bringing not only the Opera Browser for the Nintendo DS stateside, but that the Wii would make use of the Browser built-in so Wii owners could surf the web. IGN sat down with Scott Hedrick, president of Opera's mobile division, in order to obtain more info of how the browser would work. While he didn't reveal much, he did infer that the Wii Remote would be used as the substitute for the console's lack of a keyboard, similar to how the DS touch screen is used for the DS version. In the same way, the Wii version of the browser would be built into the console, instead of needing to be purchased like the DS's (which will come on a DS game card). He also revealed that the browser would work similarly to Opera's own PC browser, with many of the same features. To read the entire interview at IGN, click the source link. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 23 2006 22:31 PM [Top] Wii Hardware Adds a Port [ IGN Wii ] IGN was glad to take some shots of the hollow shells for the Wii actually being run by GameCubes underne...I mean, Wii console at E3 2006, which revealed a minor change being made for the console. Fortunately, this isn't any mystery port: it's a port for the wired sensor bar which will attach to the front of the TV for use with the Wii controller. This confirms that the bar will be unfortunately wired and not wireless as initially hoped, but it does mean that the USB ports will be free for other, still unconfirmed reasons. Stay tuned for more. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 23 2006 22:14 PM [Top] No Dolby Digital for Wii [ IGN Wii ] We should have seen the signs two weeks ago, when all Wii games shown were merely running in Dolby Pro Logic II. Now, official documentation from 3rd parties brings about the official word: the Wii will not support Dolby Digital optical sound output, instead sticking to the Pro Logic II simulated output utilized in the GameCube. While it should be noted that these specs are not final and could certainly change, and the fact that the controller will have a speaker built-in for it's own simulated sound, this news cannot be too good for tech-heads hoping the Wii will at least use their sound systems to their best ability. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 23 2006 21:53 PM [Top] New Developer Working on Wii [ IGN Wii ] It's been a while since we've heard from famed japanese developer Kenji Eno, who, while the head of development company Warp, was behind the famed D series of survivor horror games for the 3DO and Dreamcast, as well as platforming game Enemy Zero. Now, the developer is back in the limelight with his new company, From Yellow To Orange, and has announced he has a new game in the works for a console with a "unique control device". Now gee, what console could he be talking about? We'll have more info about what Edo has planned for the Wii when it becomes available. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 23 2006 21:47 PM [Top] Nintendo Launches Mario Bros. Podcast Series [ Feedburner ] Nintendo has released a special video podcast series devoted to the release of one of the hottest games around, New Super Mario Bros. for the Nintendo DS. The podcast series consists of four videos which will release over the span of four weeks, each consisting of something relating to the game. The first installment is already out, consisting of a greeting from Nintendo Marketing VP Perrin Kaplan, as well as an interview with Mario's legendary creator, Shigeru Miyamoto. The coming weeks of the podcast series will feature reviews of both New Super Mario Bros. and the soon-to be released DS Lite, as well as an interview with Mario himself (played by the always-awesome Charles Martinet). Check out the series by clicking the source link. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 23 2006 17:42 PM [Top] Ubisoft Gets Lost [ Ubisoft ] Ubisoft has officially announced that it has signed a deal to bring one of the hottest shows on television to the videogame world, when Lost: the videogame is released in 2007. Ubisoft confirmed that the game will release for PC, as well as various consoles and handhelds, but did not specify which ones. However, it wouldn't be a shock to see this game turn up on either the Wii or the DS, or perhaps both. Stay tuned for more information on the Lost videogame as it becomes available. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 22 2006 23:50 PM [Top] Metroid Prime 3: Corruption [ Taste-Tests ] Joe suits up and blasts his way through the E3 demo of Metroid Prime 3: Corruption. Does it live up the hype that the Wii-mote is ideal for FPS games? Click to find out. Joe McCollum -- Posted on Monday, May 22 2006 21:20 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces New Nintendogs for Europe [ Nintendo of Europe ] Since the launch of Nintendogs back in October 2005, copies of this title have been flying off the shelves, with over 2.5 million copies sold in Europe and 6 million copies globally. Now Nintendo is offering canine lovers the chance to own the much sought after Dalmatian puppy, as Nintendogs Dalmatian & Friends Edition goes on sale across Europe, exclusively for the Nintendo DS from 16th June 2006. With an initial choice of six breeds to own and a further 14 to be unlocked, Nintendogs Dalmatian & Friends Edition sees the previously hard-to-unlock Dalmatian amongst the initial choices, along with the most popular dogs from the previous versions - Dachshund & Friends, Labrador & Friends and Chihuahua & Friends. If you’ve missed out on the handheld phenomenon of the year so far or have just been as yet unable to unlock your very own spotted puppy, Nintendogs Dalmatian & Friends is the companion for you. Nintendogs Dalmatian & Friends bounds its way on to the Nintendo DS across Europe from 16th June 2006 for the estimated retail price of around £29.99. The game appears to be a European exclusive for now, but we'll keep you posted if any information on a US release becomes available. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 22 2006 12:16 PM [Top] Ninendo Announces European Release of DS Lite [ Nintendo of Europe ] The Nintendo DS Lite will become the new edition to Nintendo’s video game family when it launches in Europe on 23rd June 2006. Available in two colours from launch – a sleek black edition and a cool, stylish white edition, the summer really is looking brighter. Nintendo DS Lite is a lighter and brighter version of the highly successful Nintendo DS, which has sold more than 4 million units across Europe and 16 milllion units worldwide. It will join the Nintendo DS range as a ‘premium’ alternative to the current Nintendo DS and is expected to retail at the estimated price of around £99.99. Nintendo’s latest console includes all the existing features of the Nintendo DS, yet includes a variety of distinctive changes which truly sets it apart from other handheld consoles. Nintendo DS Lite retains the advanced touch screen technology, allowing players to control the software with a stylus or even their finger, as well as dual screens, voice recognition and Wi-Fi capabilities of the Nintendo DS but is now both smaller and lighter. Weighing nearly 60g less than the original, it is just two thirds of the original size. The redesign isn’t only cosmetic though, the Nintendo DS Lite features adjustable screen brightness with four settings, a repositioned microphone for ease of use and a larger and more comfortable stylus. With its new design and unique features, this console is perfect for everyone regardless of age, gender and gaming skills. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 22 2006 12:14 PM [Top] Sonic Wild Fire [ Taste-Tests ] 3D Sonics suck. This is 3D Sonic. This doesn't suck. Yeah, wrap your minds around that one. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Sunday, May 21 2006 22:50 PM [Top] Madden NFL 2007 (Wii) [ Taste-Tests ] We promise no endzone dances from Mike. Unless you want to see it, in which case e-mail mike@gccafe.com and he'll get right on making you a video... Mike Twomey -- Posted on Saturday, May 20 2006 23:57 PM [Top] Wii Sports [ Taste-Tests ] Carl will NOT send you an endzone dance, no matter how much you e-mail him. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Saturday, May 20 2006 23:54 PM [Top] Super Mario Galaxy [ Taste-Tests ] Mario blasts off for adventure on the Wii. Is the former Mario 128 worth the wait? Eric Jones -- Posted on Saturday, May 20 2006 22:56 PM [Top] The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (Wii Edition) [ Taste-Tests ] Link's still grown up. Eric still hasn't. Eric Jones -- Posted on Saturday, May 20 2006 22:21 PM [Top] Sakurai Reveals More on Brawl [ Famitsu ] Super Smash Bros. Brawl director Masahiro Sakurai returned this week with a big post-E3 column in the latest issue of Famitsu magazine, the first since last week's shocking reveal of the game. In the column, Sakurai revealed the Japanese title for the game will be "Dairantou Smash Bros. X" - the X referring to the previously impossible character battles featured in the game, as a crossover between series. Of course, this could also be inferred as a subtle hint that "impossible character battles" will include more non-Nintendo characters than Solid Snake, as was hinted at last week at E3. Sakurai also confirmed that the game will make use of the standard GameCube pad, as the Wii's unique controller proved to be too difficult to implement in a fighting game. He also shared some of the difficulties with transitioning the game to online, and making the game fair for all players regardless of skill level. Sakurai also stated he'd like to work more with the Wii at some point, stating he believes it will "fix many of the problems in the game industry". Sakurai was also kind enough to update the official Super Smash Bros. website, including the official character art for one of the game's biggest new fighters: Kid Icarus's Pit. Check out the image below. UPDATE: Direct from the official site, some more new screenshots have surfaced. These center on Pit and Metaknight. Check them out below. Images: Super Smash Bros. Brawl Character Art - Pit Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 1 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 2 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 3 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 4 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 5 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 6 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 18 2006 21:14 PM [Top] Barnyard Screens and Info [ THQ ] Enter the world of Nickelodeon’s newest adventure and bring the Barnyard movie to life. Battle the coyote invaders, tee up for a game of golf, target the bulls eye with your flying chicken and race downhill on your speedy bike. Players will be able to explore a fully interactive, 3D world and prove they have what it takes to be the biggest party animal of them all. The game features all of your favorite Barnyard characters from the movie, as well as action packed games based on the wild antics of Otis and his friends. There is also addictive free-form gameplay through areas like Walnut Woods, Dankweed Pond and the Barnyard itself. Barnyard heads into stores for the GameCube and GBA later this year. Images: Barnyard (GCN) Screenshot 1 Barnyard (GCN) Screenshot 2 Barnyard (GCN) Screenshot 3 Barnyard (GCN) Screenshot 4 Barnyard (GCN) Screenshot 5 Barnyard (GBA) Screenshot 1 Barnyard (GBA) Screenshot 2 Barnyard (GBA) Screenshot 3 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 18 2006 18:43 PM [Top] Alex Rider: Stormbreaker Screens and Info [ THQ ] Embrace the role of Alex Rider to out-spy, outwit and out-cool evil on the DS and GBA! Based on this summer’s much-anticipated teen spy movie, Alex Rider: Stormbreaker starring Mickey Rourke, Alicia Silverstone and Ewan McGregor, the Alex Rider: Stormbreaker video game captures all the excitement and suspense of Anthony Horowitz’s best-selling novel about teenage superspy Alex Rider™ The book series has sold over nine million copies to date worldwide! Game play includes combat, stealth missions, vehicles and the use of gadgets to achieve mission objectives. Players can explore the vast Alex Rider: Stormbreaker universe, including Ian Rider’s house, the breaker’s yard, MI6’s secret Liverpool Street headquarters, M16’s training facilities and Darius Sayle’s complex. Players obtain mission briefings from Mrs. Jones and Alan Blunt before they go undercover, improve their problem-solving skills at M16’s top training camp and receive spy gadgets from Smithers to aid them in combat, navigation and unlocking special mini games. Alex Rider: Stormbreaker will be released for the DS and GBA later this year. Images: Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (DS) Screenshot 1 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (DS) Screenshot 2 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (DS) Screenshot 3 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (DS) Screenshot 4 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (DS) Screenshot 5 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (DS) Screenshot 6 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (DS) Screenshot 7 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (DS) Screenshot 8 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (GBA) Screenshot 1 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (GBA) Screenshot 2 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (GBA) Screenshot 3 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (GBA) Screenshot 4 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (GBA) Screenshot 5 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (GBA) Screenshot 6 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (GBA) Screenshot 7 Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (GBA) Screenshot 8 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 18 2006 18:32 PM [Top] Nicktoons Screens and Info [ THQ ] The sequel to last years Nicktoons Unite!, Nicktoons adds more characters and more mayhem to the already crazy concept. The game hits stores later this year for the GameCube, GBA, and DS. Images: Nicktoons (GCN) Screenshot 1 Nicktoons (GCN) Screenshot 2 Nicktoons (GCN) Screenshot 3 Nicktoons (DS) Screenshot 1 Nicktoons (DS) Screenshot 2 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 18 2006 18:26 PM [Top] Monster House Screens and Info [ THQ ] Do you have what it takes to save the neighborhood? The Monster House videogames will allow players to experience key moments of the movie as they uncover the mysteries of the house in order to save their neighborhood. Players will also take on unique adventures that were inspired by the film. With three playable characters, fans of the film will enjoy seeing the movie come to life in their living rooms. Players will experience key moments of the movie and explore deeper and darker sections of the house. You can play as the three main characters from the movie, each with their own actions and abilities. Explore a living, breathing house full of traps and mystery. Use water blasters to battle creatures created from a combination of different household objects. Spooky surprises and unexpected random events keep players constantly on their guard. You can even play “Thou art dead”, the 2D arcade game that appears in the movie. Monster House, the official game of the movie, will hit stores later this year for the GameCube, GBA, and DS. Images: Monster House Screenshot 1 Monster House Screenshot 2 Monster House Screenshot 3 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 18 2006 17:58 PM [Top] Cars Screens and Info [ THQ ] Race to the finish line as you live all the fun and excitement of the next Walt Disney Pictures presentation of a Pixar Animation Studios film, “Cars.” Play as all your favorite characters as you help Lightening McQueen capture the coveted Piston Cup Championship. Cars features Story-based racing adventure game that will relive all of the key moments of the movie. It includes more than 10 playable characters from the film, an open world environment with more than 30 races and minigames, and authentic voice talent from the movie. Cars will hit stores next month for the GameCube, GBA, and DS, and later this year for the Wii. Images: Cars (Wii/GCN) Screenshot 1 Cars (Wii/GCN) Screenshot 2 Cars (Wii/GCN) Screenshot 3 Cars (Wii/GCN) Screenshot 4 Cars (Wii/GCN) Screenshot 5 Cars (Wii/GCN) Screenshot 6 Cars (Wii/GCN) Screenshot 7 Cars (Wii/GCN) Screenshot 8 Cars (Wii/GCN) Screenshot 9 Cars (Wii/GCN) Screenshot 10 Cars (DS) Screenshot 1 Cars (DS) Screenshot 2 Cars (DS) Screenshot 3 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 18 2006 17:54 PM [Top] Avatar: The Last Airbender Screens and Info [ THQ ] Bring to life an adventure of intrigue, deceit and revelation in Avatar: The Last Airbender. Play as Aang, Katara, Haru and Sokka as you grow your team into an unstoppable force making discoveries in a thrilling blend of magic and martial arts combat. Use your fully customizable bending powers to master the four elements of Earth, Air, Water and Fire and explore the beautifully detailed environments of the Avatar nations. Avatar is a single-player game featuring unique martial arts style combat. The game features fully customizable “bending powers” mastering the four elements of Water, Air, Earth and Fire. Players will journey through all the Great Nations of the Avatar world and will enjoy environments and characters from the TV show plus never before seen enemies and creatures! Avatar: The Last Airbender will be released for the Wii, GameCube, GBA, and DS later this year. Images: Avatar: The Last Airbender (Wii/GCN) Screenshot 1 Avatar: The Last Airbender (Wii/GCN) Screenshot 2 Avatar: The Last Airbender (GBA) Screenshot 1 Avatar: The Last Airbender (GBA) Screenshot 2 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 18 2006 17:43 PM [Top] SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab Screens [ THQ ] Bikini Bottom will never be the same! SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab brings the #1 kids gaming franchise and TV property into the bizarre and unusual, introducing never-before-seen art styles and brand new gameplay mechanics that will change your perception of Bikini Bottom forever! Embark on a series of fantastic tales through nine visually unique levels. Experience five brand new gameplay mechanics including rampaging, flying, skydiving, chase and hot rod racing. Rampage through Bikini Bottom as gigantic Plankton. Fly through the savage jaw of the enormous bull worm as SpongeBob. Blast off into outer space and survive a hi-speed asteroid field as Patrick. Plunge into the pages of a comic book as Starfishman and become the hero of the seven seas Speed through the metallic flames, chrome and smoke-filled world of Hot Rod racing. SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab will hit stores for the Wii, GameCube, DS, and GBA later this year. Images: SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab Screenshot 1 SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab Screenshot 2 SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab Screenshot 3 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 18 2006 17:37 PM [Top] Freedom Wings Screens and Info [ Natsume ] It was the age of aircraft. Due to the necessity of travel between the great many islands of the South Sea, aircrafts were the main choice of transportation. Some flew for adventure...Some flew for wealth...For whatever the reason many took to the air. And there were those that used aircraft to prey upon them... The government had to put a stop to these evil pirates. They selected the world's top pilots and set up the Air Patrol Association (A.P.A) in hopes of making the skies safe once again. Beginning players can use AI COMBAT where the system will help lock on and fly the various planes or experienced players can use MANUAL COMBAT where they control all the action! Use the Touch Screen to control your plane, lock-on to various enemies or plan your flight path! Freedom Wings flies into stores for the DS this July. Images: Freedom Wings Screenshot 1 Freedom Wings Screenshot 2 Freedom Wings Screenshot 3 Freedom Wings Screenshot 4 Freedom Wings Screenshot 5 Freedom Wings Screenshot 6 Freedom Wings Screenshot 7 Freedom Wings Screenshot 8 Freedom Wings Screenshot 9 Freedom Wings Screenshot 10 Freedom Wings Screenshot 11 Freedom Wings Screenshot 12 Freedom Wings Screenshot 13 Freedom Wings Screenshot 14 Freedom Wings Screenshot 15 Freedom Wings Screenshot 16 Freedom Wings Screenshot 17 Freedom Wings Screenshot 18 Freedom Wings Boxart Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 18 2006 3:06 AM [Top] Harvest Moon DS Screens and Info [ Natsume ] Return to Forget-Me-Not-Valley for another fantastic farming adventure with all your favorite Harvest Moon characters and a few new ones! It's not easy being legendary and magical, especially if you have a rival who is just as powerful but far more popular. That's probably why the Witch Princess put a spell on the Harvest Goddess, although she didn't mean to take it this far. Her spell was only supposed to prevent the Harvest Goddess from being so cheerful and not petrify her or even banish her to another world. Now it's up to you to restore the magic of Forget-Me-Not Valley. Seek out all 101 Harvest Sprites as you plant fields, tend livestock and find the right wife to share your farming dreams! Harvest Moon DS will hit stores in August 2006. Images: Harvest Moon DS Screenshot 1 Harvest Moon DS Screenshot 2 Harvest Moon DS Screenshot 3 Harvest Moon DS Screenshot 4 Harvest Moon DS Screenshot 5 Harvest Moon DS Screenshot 6 Harvest Moon DS Screenshot 7 Harvest Moon DS Screenshot 8 Harvest Moon DS Screenshot 9 Harvest Moon DS Screenshot 10 Harvest Moon DS Screenshot 11 Harvest Moon DS Screenshot 12 Harvest Moon DS Screenshot 13 Harvest Moon DS Screenshot 14 Harvest Moon DS Boxart Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 18 2006 2:51 AM [Top] More New Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screens [ Nintendo ] The awesomeness continues from the Big N as the company has revealed more screens of one of the biggest games for 2007, Super Smash Bros. Brawl for the Nintendo Wii. Check them out below. Images: Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 1 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 2 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 3 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 4 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 5 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 6 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 7 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 8 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 9 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 10 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 11 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 17 2006 4:24 AM [Top] Mega Man Heading to Wii? [ Planet Mega Man ] In an interview with Mega Man fansite Planet Mega Man, conducted last week at E3 2006, Mega Man creator and series producer Keiji Inafune revealed his upcoming plans for the Blue Bomber. In the interview, Inafune announced heavy interest in bringing the franchise to the Wii. Says Inafune, "The Wii definitely has some potential, and it's maybe one where our target audiencecould embrace the Mega Man series. So while we haven't planned anything specific now at this time, I think probably that the potential is the highest on that piece of hardware." Good news here, as the possibilities for the Wii controller being used as Mega Man's Mega Buster are just too good to pass up. Expect more on a possible Mega Man for the Wii when Capcom makes it available. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 17 2006 4:21 AM [Top] Majesco Busts a Move on Wii [ Majesco ] Majesco today announced its inaugural Wii product, Bust-A-Move Revolution, is scheduled for early 2007. An iconic property within interactive entertainment, the Bust-A-Move video game franchise has been a worldwide favorite of puzzle fans, as well as hardcore and casual gamers for years. "We intend to maximize the intuitive nature of the Wii controller to create a revolutionary offering of the highly popular Bust-A-Move franchise," said Ken Gold Vice president of Marketing. We'll have more info about Bust-A-Move Revolution as it becomes available. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 17 2006 4:17 AM [Top] The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning Screens and Info [ Vivendi ] The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning, the latest installment to the 17 million-unit-selling Spyro franchise, is coming this Fall to the Nintendo GameCube, Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS. The completely new Spyro adventure, featuring gameplay focused heavily on dynamic action and fast-paced combat, uncovers the true origin of Spyro the Dragon as he evolves into a living, breathing weapon of explosive destruction! This epic story of Spyro’s quest to discover his roots and realize his destiny is amazingly brought to life by leading Hollywood voice-over cast members Elijah Wood (Frodo Baggins in The Lord of the Rings trilogy) as the new voice of Spyro; David Spade (The Benchwarmers) as Spyro’s sidekick, Sparx the dragonfly; and Gary Oldman (Sirius Black from the Harry Potter films) as Ignitus, the Fire Dragon Elder and Spyro’s mentor. In The Legend of Spyro A New Beginning, players will experience the awesome power of the purple dragon as they unleash devastating fury attacks, upgradeable breaths and ground-to-aerial melee combos in frenzied battles with hordes of menacing enemies and bone-chilling bosses. The action game also introduces a new dragon upgrade system, giving players the freedom to increase the power and variety of attacks to their liking. Developed by critically-acclaimed developers Krome Studios (console and Game Boy Advance) and Amaze Entertainment (Nintendo DS), The Legend of Spyro A New Beginning is scheduled to be released in October 2006. Images: The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning Screenshot 1 The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning Screenshot 2 The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning Screenshot 3 The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning Screenshot 4 The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning Screenshot 5 The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning Screenshot 6 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 17 2006 1:06 AM [Top] Crash Boom Bang! Screens and Info [ Vivendi ] Crash Boom Bang! is an exciting, humorous game that will allow players to roll the dice and dive into one of 40 action-oriented, outrageously funny, multiplayer mini-games, as they communicate with and bet against opponents through the never-before-seen “Touch Panel Communication” in-game feature. Developed by critically-acclaimed Japanese developer Dimps, Crash Boom Bang! will be available exclusively for the Nintendo DS system in October 2006. In Crash Boom Bang!, Crash and his friends embark on a worldwide race in a quest for its multi-million dollar prize. With hidden intentions of finding an ancient lost city and the famed magical “Super Big Power Stone” that grants its user one wish, the race’s sponsor Viscount Devil plans on using the contestants to solve the mystery. The map of the race checkpoints is based on the Viscount’s ancient map, and the evil Dr. Neo Cortex, also an invitee to the race, has figured out the Viscount’s master plan and in his own relentless pursuit for world domination, sets out to steal the map and retrieve the legendary stone. It’s up to Crash and his friends to win the big race...and save the world! Images: Crash Boom Bang! Screenshot 1 Crash Boom Bang! Screenshot 2 Crash Boom Bang! Screenshot 3 Crash Boom Bang! Screenshot 4 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 17 2006 1:02 AM [Top] One Piece: Grand Adventure Screenshots [ Namco Bandai ] Pirates! Set sail! Weigh anchors! Depart for the Grand Line, where battles and adventure await! One Piece, the popular comic and anime series featured in Shonen Jump, 4KidsTV and Cartoon Network, comes back to the console world with One Piece: Grand Adventure for the GameCube. The series features Monkey D. Luffy as an aspiring pirate searching for One Piece, the legendary treasure of King of the Pirates, Gold Roger. One Piece: Grand Adventure brings back the fun and excitement of the free-moving Vs. Battle action from past One Piece games with exciting new twists. The game also has been completely revamped with the inclusion of an engrossing Adventure Mode, sending players on mini-game filled quests for extended replayability. With the latest main and support characters, new moves, and stages, this is the ultimate One Piece game! Images: One Piece: Grand Adventure Screenshot 1 One Piece: Grand Adventure Screenshot 2 One Piece: Grand Adventure Screenshot 3 One Piece: Grand Adventure Screenshot 4 One Piece: Grand Adventure Screenshot 5 One Piece: Grand Adventure Screenshot 6 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 17 2006 0:32 AM [Top] Pac-Man World Rally Screenshots [ Namco Bandai ] In Pac-Man World Rally, players can race through a variety of environments from Pac-Man World as Pac-Man, Pac Jr. and other beloved characters from past Namco classics. In one of the fastest and most exciting kart racing games ever, players will race for the win or fight it out in colorful Battle Arenas with special weapons, power ups and variety Pac-Man powers. Race against the computer or with your friends in the fastest, most exciting kart racer to date. Feel unprecedented sense of speed as you race on some of the most exciting tracks ever created! Play as either iconic characters from the Pac-Man universe or choose from an all-star cast of classic Namco characters like the ghosts, Ms. Pac-Man, and even the Prince from Katamari Damacy! Special power ups, tracks and abilities prove that it’s Pac-Man’s world, and we only live in it. Pac-Man World Rally will release for the GameCube later this year. Images: Pac-Man World Rally Screenshot 1 Pac-Man World Rally Screenshot 2 Pac-Man World Rally Screenshot 3 Pac-Man World Rally Screenshot 4 Pac-Man World Rally Screenshot 5 Pac-Man World Rally Screenshot 6 Pac-Man World Rally Screenshot 7 Pac-Man World Rally Screenshot 8 Pac-Man World Rally Screenshot 9 Pac-Man World Rally Screenshot 10 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 17 2006 0:12 AM [Top] Metal Slug Anthology Screenshots [ SNK Playmore ] To gamers worldwide, the Metal Slug franchise is known as one of the greatest action arcade series of all time. First introduced in 1996, Metal Slug and its sequels have achieved massive popularity with arcade gamers due to the series’ highly detailed animations, impressive backdrops, and consistent sense of humor. Metal Slug Anthology is a full arcade collection including many additional surprises. Check out the first screens for the Wii version of the game below. Images: Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 1 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 2 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 3 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 4 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 5 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 6 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 7 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 8 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 9 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 10 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 11 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 12 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 13 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 14 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 15 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 16 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 17 Metal Slug Anthology Screenshot 18 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 16 2006 23:29 PM [Top] Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 Screens and Info [ Atari ] Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 takes the series’ popular acrobatic and intense 3D flying and fighting dynamic and takes it to a whole new level with over 100 playable characters, 15 vast and vibrant 3D destructible environments, and nine different game modes, including single and multiplayer battles. In addition to the unprecedented number of characters, wide selection of massive 3D destructible environments and abundance of game modes, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 will feature in-game transformations, which players will be able to trigger in real-time, making battles even more dramatic and exciting than ever before. Using the Nintendo Wii controller, players will be able to mimic signature moves as they are performed in the Dragon Ball Z animated series, such as Goku’s Kamehameha, moving both hands to execute this devastating energy attack. Check out the first screens of the game below. Images: Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 Screenshot 1 Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 Screenshot 2 Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 Screenshot 3 Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 Screenshot 4 Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 Screenshot 5 Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 Screenshot 6 Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 Screenshot 7 Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 Screenshot 8 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 16 2006 18:23 PM [Top] Spectrobes Screens and Info [ Buena Vista Games ] An original concept, Spectrobes introduces two junior Interplanetary Patrol officers named Rallen and Jeena who learn of strange, prehistoric creatures called Spectrobes that possess special powers. These Spectrobes hold the key to defeating a vicious and merciless force known only as the Krawl who threaten to destroy the galaxy. Our two heroes embark on a mission to save their galaxy – to do so they must excavate, awaken, train and collect all the Spectrobes they can and battle to defeat the Krawl! Check out the first screens of Spectrobes below. The game hits stores for the Nintendo DS later this year. Images: Spectrobes Screenshot 1 Spectrobes Screenshot 2 Spectrobes Screenshot 3 Spectrobes Screenshot 4 Spectrobes Screenshot 5 Spectrobes Screenshot 6 Spectrobes Screenshot 7 Spectrobes Screenshot 8 Spectrobes Screenshot 9 Spectrobes Screenshot 10 Spectrobes Screenshot 11 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 16 2006 18:14 PM [Top] MechAssault: Phantom War Screens and Boxart [ Majesco ] MechAssault: Phantom War brings the future of interstellar combat to today’s handheld gamers in a third-person futuristic shooter. Players assume the role of a MechWarrior, an elite fighter trained to control the ultimate war machine of the 32nd century...the BattleMech. Gamers experience fast-action, 3D ‘Mech combat on the top screen, while the lower touch screen positions them inside the cockpit at the controls. The year is 3134 and after 60 years of peace and prosperity, the Republic of the Sphere is now living in a dark age of ex-communication. Nearly all Hyperpulse Generators (HPGs), the pinnacles of interstellar communication, have been struck by a virus leaving worlds cut off from all information. With involuntary blinders on, no one in the Republic knows when, or where, the next attack could be coming from. Their only hope is to turn the HPG into an instrument of war. Check out the latest screens of the game below. Images: MechAssault: Phantom War Screenshot 1 MechAssault: Phantom War Screenshot 2 MechAssault: Phantom War Screenshot 3 MechAssault: Phantom War Screenshot 4 MechAssault: Phantom War Screenshot 5 MechAssault: Phantom War Screenshot 6 MechAssault: Phantom War Screenshot 7 MechAssault: Phantom War Screenshot 8 MechAssault: Phantom War Screenshot 9 MechAssault: Phantom War Screenshot 10 MechAssault: Phantom War Boxart Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 16 2006 18:05 PM [Top] Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (DS) Screens and Info [ Activision ] In Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam, players can choose to play as Tony Hawk or one of eight original characters. In addition they can create their own character with the Create-A-Skater feature. Players can crouch for more speed, jump or grind over obstacles and pull off all of their favorite air tricks to gain boost as they race down the steepest terrains in the world. Players choose from a wide variety of skateboards such as current, old school “fishtails,” longboards and 70’s skateboards, all of which have different attributes that will have an effect on gameplay. Players can also challenge friends in competitions over Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection in a variety of modes: Race, Trick Attack, Slalom and Event, complete with real-time voice chat using the DS's built-in microphone. Check out the first screens of the DS version of Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam below. Images: Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (DS) Screenshot 1 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (DS) Screenshot 2 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (DS) Screenshot 3 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (DS) Screenshot 4 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (DS) Screenshot 5 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (DS) Screenshot 6 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (DS) Screenshot 7 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (DS) Screenshot 8 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (DS) Screenshot 9 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 16 2006 17:39 PM [Top] Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (Wii) Screens and Info [ Activision ] For the first time ever, Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam lets players experience the breakneck speed of downhill skateboard racing as they tear up the steepest terrains in the world while performing tricks and outmaneuvering opponents in locations such as the crowded streets of San Francisco and rocky terrain of Machu Picchu. Developed for the Nintendo Revolution, gamers utilize an innovative and intuitive control system as they take on the role of Tony Hawk or one of nine characters and compete in specific time-based challenges in one of three gameplay modes including race, trick and slalom. Gamers can also challenge friends in head-to-head competitions as they pull off a variety of high-velocity stunts and crashes in living, populated environments filled with cars, pedestrians and buildings. Check out the first screens of the Wii version below. Images: Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (Wii) Screenshot 1 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (Wii) Screenshot 2 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (Wii) Screenshot 3 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (Wii) Screenshot 4 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (Wii) Screenshot 5 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (Wii) Screenshot 6 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (Wii) Screenshot 7 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (Wii) Screenshot 8 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (Wii) Screenshot 9 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (Wii) Screenshot 10 Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam (Wii) Screenshot 11 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 16 2006 17:35 PM [Top] Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshots [ Sega ] Super Monkey Ball Adventure is the first genuinely narrative driven Super Monkey Ball title that offers a story driven adventure game style as well as the classic puzzle based games. On Jungle Island Aiai meets Princess Deedee of Monkitropolis and Prince Abeabe of Kongri-la, star-crossed lovers whose marriage is hampered by a feud that exists between their respective kingdoms. The Monkey Ball world is plagued by misunderstanding and suspicion, which has led to the rise of The Naysayers, gloomy creatures who are sucking the joy from the Monkey World. Aiai is asked to reconcile the feuding Monkey Kingdoms and to do this he must travel to all five Monkey realms, helping people and defeating Naysayers in an effort to spread joy and remove prejudice and fear. Super Monkey Ball Adventure takes place in a persistent world in which puzzles and quests are spread throughout. Classic Super Monkey Ball gameplay is bolstered by a chant system that grants new abilities to the Ball. The party games and puzzle trays also appear and ensure that the bold new direction for Super Monkey Ball also has links to the franchises successful heritage. Check out the latest screens of the game below. Super Monkey Ball Adventure will be released for the Nintendo GameCube later this year. Images: Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 1 Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 2 Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 3 Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 4 Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 5 Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 6 Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 7 Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 8 Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 9 Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 10 Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 11 Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 12 Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 13 Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 14 Super Monkey Ball Adventure Screenshot 15 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 16 2006 1:41 AM [Top] Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz Screens and Info [ Sega ] AiAi and friends come to the Nintendo Wii! An all-action extravaganza of unique new puzzles and madcap multiplayer gameplay, Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz takes the ground-breaking Nintendo Wii controller and shows the world exactly what it can do! Get stuck into scores of new puzzle levels and a barrel-load of thrilling new party games, all specifically designed to take spectacular advantage of the pioneering Nintendo Wii controller. One for you and every last one of your friends, Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz takes the classic, fan-favourite Monkey Ball gameplay and adds a whole new world of fun. Check out the first screens of the game below. Images: Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz Screenshot 1 Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz Screenshot 2 Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz Screenshot 3 Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz Screenshot 4 Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz Screenshot 5 Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz Screenshot 6 Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz Screenshot 7 Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz Screenshot 8 Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz Screenshot 9 Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz Screenshot 10 Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz Screenshot 11 Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz Screenshot 12 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 16 2006 1:20 AM [Top] Rayman: Raving Rabbids Screenshots [ Ubisoft ] Developed by acclaimed game designer Michel Ancel, this new installment of the Rayman franchise squarely targets kids. This new Rayman game features the funniest, zaniest, wackiest antics ever when the world of Rayman is threatened by a devastating invasion of demonic rabbits! With the help of magical creatures, Rayman must battle to save his world from the bunnies. Look out – Rayman will be punching his way onto current and next-gen platforms (including the Wii) coming this fall. Check out the first screens of the game below. Images: Rayman: Raving Rabbids Screenshot 1 Rayman: Raving Rabbids Screenshot 2 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 16 2006 0:47 AM [Top] New Red Steel Screenshots [ Ubisoft ] Red Steel is an exclusive Wii launch title that takes full advantage of the console’s innovative controller and puts players directly into the action-packed first-person experience with the weapon in their hand – literally. An engaging storyline unfolds as you learn that your fiancée has been kidnapped and her father – a Japanese mafia kingpin – murdered by a rival gang. The only way to save your loved one and defend your honor is to journey from Los Angeles to Japan and confront the Tokyo underworld. By learning the ancient art of Japanese fighting with your katana and the focused precision of modern firearms, you will progress and adapt yourself to this foreign environment, where skills alone may not guarantee you victory. Check out the screens of the game below. Images: Red Steel Screenshot 1 Red Steel Screenshot 2 Red Steel Screenshot 3 Red Steel Screenshot 4 Red Steel Screenshot 5 Red Steel Screenshot 6 Red Steel Screenshot 7 Red Steel Screenshot 8 Red Steel Screenshot 9 Red Steel Screenshot 10 Red Steel Screenshot 11 Red Steel Screenshot 12 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 16 2006 0:45 AM [Top] Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screens and Info [ Capcom ] In Mega Man Battle Network 6, Lan’s father has received a job transfer and the family moves to Cyber City, a town known for conducting various technological experiments. Lan will meet new people and build new friendships in the real world while Mega Man befriends helpful Navis and encounters dangerous new enemies on the virtual plane. Together they will face threats far more powerful and perilous than they ever have before. A long time ago, two ancient creatures with unimaginable power ravaged the net. These two behemoths, called “Cybeasts,” clashed against each other with such force that the entire virtual landscape was changed forever. One embodied the form of a vicious wolf, with massive fangs and horrific howls that reached far and wide. The other was a ferocious bird with razor sharp claws and immense wings that flapped mightily, blowing over everything in its path. After their last known battle, a giant crater was all that remained and it was named the Underground, where they have lain in slumber… until now. Through the actions of a mysterious foe, they have been awakened and unleashed upon the net. Mega Man is able to intervene and manages to successfully contain one of the beasts within him. Mega Man Battle Network 6: Cybeast Gregar and Mega Man Battle Network 6: Cybeast Falzar will be released later this year for the GBA. Check out the latest screens of the game below. Images: Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 1 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 2 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 3 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 4 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 5 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 6 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 7 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 8 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 9 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 10 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 11 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 12 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 13 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 14 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 15 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 16 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 17 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 18 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 19 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 20 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 21 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 22 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 23 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 24 Mega Man Battle Network 6 Screenshot 25 Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 15 2006 22:48 PM [Top] Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All Screens and Info [ Capcom ] Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All is the second game in the popular court room battle series from Japan, and introduces four new cases featuring new characters, plot twists and gameplay features. Players resume the role of Phoenix Wright, a rookie defense attorney who must prove his client’s innocence against the toughest of odds and most ruthless of adversaries. Players must exercise their legal prowess as they collect evidence, examine witnesses, analyze testimonies and seek the truth to ensure that justice prevails. The game is characterized by its memorable characters, engaging storylines and unique gameplay format, all presented in a comical anime style. Capcom plans to release Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All across North America in Q1 2007. Check out the first screens of the game below Images: Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All Screenshot 1 Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All Screenshot 2 Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All Screenshot 3 Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All Screenshot 4 Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All Screenshot 5 Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All Screenshot 6 Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All Screenshot 7 Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All Screenshot 8 Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All Screenshot 9 Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All Screenshot 10 Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All Screenshot 11 Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Justice For All Screenshot 12 Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 15 2006 22:12 PM [Top] Mega Man ZX Screens and Info [ Capcom ] In Mega Man ZX, hundreds of years have passed since the battles between humans and Reploids (robots). After fierce wars between the two sides, peace was finally restored and the two groups were able to establish various cooperative nations within the “Inner” area of the universe. However, danger zones remained in the undeveloped “Outer” section where independently evolved robots called “Mavericks” began wreaking havoc. A group called the Serpent Company scours the Outer universe to provide energy created from otherwise unattainable items to the Inner population and also serves to protect these peaceful nations from Maverick attacks over the years. On an excursion to the Outer region, they discover relics of ancient technologies in the ruins. These relics, called Biometals, are living, conscious materials, with records of information and weapon data from history housed within. Players assume the role of either a human male character named Vent or his female counterpart, Aile, who are employees of the Girouette Express, a courier service that takes jobs transporting anything to anywhere. On a job accompanying their boss, Girouette, to transport a package containing Model X and Model Z Biometals, they are attacked by a mysterious group of Mavericks who seeks to take the material for themselves. During the scuffle, the Model X Biometal is absorbed into the main character, causing a transformation into Model X form while the Model Z Biometal fuses with Girouette. In Mega Man ZX, players traverse an open map structure as they face various foes in order to acquire Biometals. The crystallized Biometal data collects at the weak points of bosses, so only by defeating them will players acquire the necessary substances to transform into different Models. The specific powers of each type will help access previously inaccessible areas and progress through the game. Each Model type offers distinct abilities including the ability to break walls, burn enemies with fire, dash through water and more. Mega Man ZX will hit stores for the Nintendo DS later this year. Check out the first screens of the game below. Images: Mega Man ZX Screenshot 1 Mega Man ZX Screenshot 2 Mega Man ZX Screenshot 3 Mega Man ZX Screenshot 4 Mega Man ZX Screenshot 5 Mega Man ZX Screenshot 6 Mega Man ZX Screenshot 7 Mega Man ZX Screenshot 8 Mega Man ZX Screenshot 9 Mega Man ZX Screenshot 10 Mega Man ZX Screenshot 11 Mega Man ZX Screenshot 12 Mega Man ZX Screenshot 13 Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 15 2006 22:01 PM [Top] Dragon Quest Heroes: Rocket Slime Screens and Info [ Square-Enix ] Dragon Quest Heroes: Rocket Slime is the latest game from the creative minds behind the 2006 RPG classic, Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King. Prepare to immerse yourself in this unique, action-packed quest, available exclusively for the Nintendo DS. The hero of our tale is a slime - one of the most popular monsters from the Dragon Quest series - known as Rocket. The adventure stages consist of our hero bouncing and stretching, as well as carrying various objects on his head, while solving the mysteries behind each area, and rescuing his captured slime friends along the way. Then, each stage culminates in a fierce tank battle, providing for an action-adventure experience the likes of which have never been seen before! Dragon Quest Heroes: Rocket Slime will be released for the Nintendo DS later this year. Check out the first screens of the game below. Images: Dragon Quest Heroes: Rocket Slime Screenshot 1 Dragon Quest Heroes: Rocket Slime Screenshot 2 Dragon Quest Heroes: Rocket Slime Screenshot 3 Dragon Quest Heroes: Rocket Slime Screenshot 4 Dragon Quest Heroes: Rocket Slime Screenshot 5 Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 15 2006 0:43 AM [Top] Final Fantasy VI Advance Screens and Info [ Square-Enix ] This year, players will experience anew the magic of one of the most beloved Final Fantasy titles ever, as Final Fantasy VI makes its way to the Nintendo Game Boy Advance. A timeless classic that forever raised the bar for the genre, Final Fantasy VI is an adventure set in a world of fantasy and high technology. Its entrancing story features a large and memorable cast of characters — and each character has an equally important role to play. With new dungeons and other exciting additions complementing Final Fantasy VI's classic story and gameplay, both first-time players and fans of the original will find much to enjoy as they experience this genre-defining Final Fantasy title in portable form for the first time ever. Long ago, fearsome magical creatures known as espers ravaged the world in a devastating conflict known as the War of the Magi. By the time it ended, the war's insatiable flames and merciless destruction had pushed the world to the very brink of ruin, and both espers and magic had disappeared from the world forever — or so it would have seemed. When an esper is found frozen deep inside a mine a thousand years later, uncertainty fills the air once more. With the return of magic and war seemingly on the horizon, unlikely bonds of friendship are forged as fates are drawn together in the quest to uncover the secrets of the esper…and the Empire that will stop at nothing to acquire it. Final Fantasy VI Advance will be released for the GBA later this year. Check out the first screens of the game below. Images: Final Fantasy VI Advance Screenshot 1 Final Fantasy VI Advance Screenshot 2 Final Fantasy VI Advance Screenshot 3 Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 15 2006 0:32 AM [Top] Final Fantasy V Advance Screens and Info [ Square-Enix ] This year, players can enjoy one of the classic Final Fantasy series' most innovative and fun titles, as Final Fantasy V makes its way to the Nintendo Game Boy Advance. New elements have been seamlessly integrated into the original game, providing unexpected surprises for longtime fans. With exciting additions such as new dungeons and an expanded selection of jobs and abilities, both old-school players and first-timers will find plenty of new elements to enjoy. Blessed by the elemental crystals, the kingdoms of Tycoon, Walse, and Karnak have grown prosperous, their peoples content. But one day, the wind begins to falter and slow. Worried about the wind crystal, the king of Tycoon goes to pay it a visit—and mysteriously disappears. Soon, the previously peaceful countryside is plagued with evil beasts. During these uncertain times, four strangers band together to find the truth behind what happened, and find themselves entwined in a plot much deeper and older than they had ever imagined. Their adventure will take them over land, sea, air, and beyond to protect the crystals—and the world—from a darkness that threatens all of existence. Final Fantasy V Advance will be released for the GBA later this year. Check out the first screens of the game below Images: Final Fantasy V Advance Screenshot 1 Final Fantasy V Advance Screenshot 2 Final Fantasy V Advance Screenshot 3 Final Fantasy V Advance Screenshot 4 Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 15 2006 0:27 AM [Top] Final Fantasy III Screens and Info [ Square-Enix ] The only Final Fantasy that was never localized — the third installment of the original series — will finally reach North American shores! Lauded as “legendary” by the Japanese fanbase, Final Fantasy III has been reborn, incorporating the latest in portable gaming technology. Using the features of the Nintendo DS to their fullest, Final Fantasy III features graphics that have been reworked and remodeled in 3D, while maintaining the mythical Final Fantasy look and feel. Now is your chance to complete the circle. The legend of Final Fantasy III is reborn. A chance encounter with a sentient crystal changes Luneth’s life forever. Luneth must leave the peaceful village of Ur behind, and seek three others who share his destiny. Together, the four young adventurers set out on a dangerous journey to banish the darkness that threatens their world. Final Fantasy III will be released later this year for the Nintendo DS. Check out the first screens of the game below. Images: Final Fantasy III Screenshot 1 Final Fantasy III Screenshot 2 Final Fantasy III Screenshot 3 Final Fantasy III Screenshot 4 Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 15 2006 0:23 AM [Top] Touch Detective Screens and Info [ Atlus ] After her father unexpectedly passes away, Mackenzie inherits the family business: a renowned detective agency in a fantastic world populated by mechanized butlers and walking skeletons. With the aid of cheerful mushroom-man Funghi and robotic servant Cromwell, Mackenzie sets off to prove herself worthy of being called...the Touch Detective! - Gather evidence, talk to witnesses, and use items to further the investigation! - Four bizarre cases! Find a missing person, track down a stolen dream, and more! - Touch-screen, dual-screen puzzle-solving that takes full advantage of the Nintendo DS! Touch Detective will be released by Atlus for the Nintendo DS later this year. Check out the first screens of the game below. Images: Touch Detective Screenshot 1 Touch Detective Screenshot 2 Touch Detective Screenshot 3 Touch Detective Screenshot 4 Touch Detective Screenshot 5 Touch Detective Screenshot 6 Touch Detective Screenshot 7 Eric Jones -- Posted on Sunday, May 14 2006 23:57 PM [Top] Deep Labyrinth Screens and Info [ Atlus ] A boy and his dog, a drive through the countryside, a mysterious castle—and an epic adventure. Explore a world populated by magical creatures and monstrous foes. Descend, if you dare, into the dark heart of the Deep Labyrinth! The first 3D first-person RPG for cellular phones has become the first 3D first-person RPG for the Nintendo DS, taking full advantage of the DS's dual screens and touch screen in the process. Players explore dozens of dungeon levels, fighting hordes of hideous monsters in real-time with swords and spells. Two engrossing scenarios weave two amazing stories--one for newcomers to role-playing games, and one for RPG veterans. The game's Scenario design by Masato Katou (Chrono Trigger, Final Fantasy XI Online) and has a mmusical score by Yasunori Mitsuda (Chrono Cross, Xenosaga). The game also features touch screen sword-swinging and spell-casting and boss battles too epic to be contained on a single screen! Deep Labyrinth will be released for the Nintendo DS later this year. Check out the first screens of the game below. Images: Deep Labyrinth Screenshot 1 Deep Labyrinth Screenshot 2 Deep Labyrinth Screenshot 3 Deep Labyrinth Screenshot 4 Deep Labyrinth Screenshot 5 Deep Labyrinth Screenshot 6 Deep Labyrinth Screenshot 7 Eric Jones -- Posted on Sunday, May 14 2006 23:09 PM [Top] Death Jr. and the Science Fair of Doom Images [ Konami ] It's the worst science fair ever as Death Jr. and his pals make their way through a crazy world of science projects gone wrong! Use the touch pad to execute cool scythe combos, switch between DJ and Pandora and play seriously twisted mini-games in a warped and twisted platforming adventure. Use the Nintendo DS touch screen to unleash vicious melee attacks and crazy combos. Take control of Pandora¡Çs spirit to help guide DJ through tough spots. Collect money to upgrade weapons and attacks as DJ and Pandora make their way through crazy science fair exhibits. Three twisted mini-games playable with friends through local wireless connection. Death Jr. and the Science Fair of Doom spooks the DS later this year. Check out some screens and character art of the game below. Images: Death Jr. and the Science Fair of Doom Screenshot 1 Death Jr. and the Science Fair of Doom Screenshot 2 Death Jr. and the Science Fair of Doom Character Art 1 Death Jr. and the Science Fair of Doom Character Art 2 Eric Jones -- Posted on Sunday, May 14 2006 22:04 PM [Top] Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin Screenshots [ Konami ] Celebrating 20 years of vampire hunting action, the legendary Castlevania series is back with an all-new action packed adventure. Take control of two heroes, Jonathan Morris, a vampire killer and his close friend Charlotte Orlean, a girl with tremendous magical ability. Amidst the chaos of World War II, two mysterious sisters emerge, working to resurrect Dracula and David and Charlotte are all that stand in their way. Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin will hit stores for the DS this fall. Check out some screenshots of the game below. Images: Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin Screenshot 1 Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin Screenshot 2 Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin Screenshot 3 Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin Screenshot 4 Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin Screenshot 5 Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin Screenshot 6 Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin Screenshot 7 Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin Screenshot 8 Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin Screenshot 9 Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin Screenshot 10 Eric Jones -- Posted on Sunday, May 14 2006 22:00 PM [Top] New Elebits Artwork [ Konami ] A revolutionary game of hide and seek! Search high and low for mischievous little Elebits using the innovative features of the Nintendo Wii controller to push, pull, lift, throw and interact with anything and everything in the environment. Trust us when we say this: Elebits is one of the weirdest games we've ever seen. And we love it! Check out the first artwork for the game below. We'll have our exclusive gameplay video of the game back up shortly. Images: Elebits Artwork 1 Elebits Artwork 2 Elebits Artwork 3 Eric Jones -- Posted on Sunday, May 14 2006 21:56 PM [Top] All E3 Videos Suspended Until Further Notice [ GameCube Café ] Unfortunately we have now had to remove all of our E3 videos for the time being to make sure the site does not get completely destroyed. This actually works out better for you guys in the long run as it means the videos will be back up sooner. If we left them up now it could be many weeks before GCCafé is back up again. Hopefully we will have these issues resolved and the videos will be back up again shortly. Thank you for understanding. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Sunday, May 14 2006 18:57 PM [Top] New Super Smash Bros. Brawl Character Art [ Nintendo ] While it's no secret that Nintendo ruled over E3 with an iron fist last week, it wasn't until Day 1 of the conference itself that perhaps their biggest announcement came to light. Super Smash Bros. Brawl, the long-awaited sequel to Super Smash Bros. Melee for the GameCube, is hitting the Wii in 2007, and brings with it online play, tons of new features, and most importantly, 5 shocking new characters. They include long-forgotten Nintendo hero Pit from Kid Icarus, and most surprising of all, Solid Snake from the Metal Gear Solid series. Check out some brand-new character art of arguably the Wii's biggest game below, and expect tons more on the title when Nintendo breaks the news. Images: Super Smash Bros. Brawl Character Art - Kirby Super Smash Bros. Brawl Character Art - Samus Super Smash Bros. Brawl Character Art - Zero Suit Samus Super Smash Bros. Brawl Character Art - Metaknight Super Smash Bros. Brawl Character Art - Solid Snake Super Smash Bros. Brawl Logo Eric Jones -- Posted on Sunday, May 14 2006 18:15 PM [Top] GCCafé Hammered [ GameCube Café ] Ok, I will be the first to admit we did not expect to get hammered like we have been the last three days. Unfortunately this means we had to take down some videos. We left up the most important ones. The other videos will eventually be re-posted but for now they have to remain down. We apologize for the inconvenience and hope we can get the others back up very quickly. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Sunday, May 14 2006 17:25 PM [Top] Hudson Rocks the Virtual Console [ IGN Wii ] In an interview with IGN, Hudson Soft confirmed their plans to fully support the Wii's Virtual Console system with a host of games made for the Turbografx console. Games like Bonk (which was shown on the show floor), Lode Runner, Adventure Island, and Bomberman will be just the beginning, based on the hosts of titles the company owns. However, from there, it only gets better. The company is looking into making games from other 3rd parties, ones that have since gone the way of the dodo, available for download on the Wii as well. Says Hudson, they "have every single one of [their] lawyers checking into it." Impressive stuff, to be sure. Stay tuned for more news on Nintendo's Virtual Console as it breaks. Eric Jones -- Posted on Sunday, May 14 2006 15:41 PM [Top] Sadness Trailer [ Nibris ] Nibris has released the first trailer for Sadness, and it looks, in a word, stunning. Anybody not sure if the Wii will live up to the graphical standards of the Xbox 360 and PS3 should immediately be silenced by this one - there are times when you won't be sure if you're looking at computer generated images or actors, it's that good. The file is pretty big, so it may take a few minutes to load, even on a broadband connection, but it is well worth it. Click the source link to watch the amazing trailer for one of Wii's most intriguing titles. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Sunday, May 14 2006 15:15 PM [Top] PixArt to Provide Sensor Tracking for Wii [ Nintendo ] PixArt Imaging Incorporation, a market leader in CMOS sensor System-On-a-Chip and related application semiconductors, today announces a strategic relationship with Nintendo to provide object tracking technology for Nintendo's new-generation gaming controller, the Wii Remote. PixArt's premium tracking technology will enable Nintendo to present innovative interaction gaming controllers for its new-generation gaming platform, Wii. PixArt's Multi-Object Tracking engine (MOT sensor) technology can track multiple objects in an unbelievably quick and responsive way. As a result, Nintendo can enable its new gaming controller to interact with people by tracking the movement of the Wii Remote. The playing experience will be unprecedented, exciting and easy, even for young children or older people who cannot operate the traditional gaming controllers. "In the world of interaction, every realistic operation can be simulated in a computerized game. Through play of such simulation, any person can learn very quickly and efficiently in a virtual way. Integrated tracking technology from proven vendors like PixArt will enhance the gaming experience for the overwhelming majority of all-generation gamers." said PixArt's Sen Huang. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Saturday, May 13 2006 2:37 AM [Top] Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Revealed! [ CoroCoro Comics ] Japanese publication CoroCoro Comics has revealed yet another shocker in what has been a week of surprises from Nintendo, as the latest issue reveals the first images of the newest Pokémon games for the Nintendo DS: Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl. Apparently, the game will not be in 3D, although it looks noticibly better than previous installments of the series. The game will also feature the ability to upload Pokémon from all 5 GBA installments of the series to the new games through the DS's GBA game slot. While Wi-Fi online play over Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection was not confirmed, it's a pretty safe bet that some form of online play is in the works for this game. Check out the scans from the magazine below which show off the first images of the game. Images: Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Scan 1 Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Scan 2 Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Scan 3 Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Scan 4 Joe McCollum -- Posted on Friday, May 12 2006 0:43 AM [Top] GCCafé on MMORadio [ MMORadio ] GameCube Café will be on live with the guys over at MMORadio at 2 P.M. pacific time (5 P.M. eastern time) discussing Nintendo's E3 showing. You can get to their site by clicking the source link above, then click "Listen" at the top and on the right you can choose which player and bandwidth you prefer. The show will also be replayed again later tonight at 7:30 P.M. pacific time (10:30 P.M. eastern time). These guys are on 24/7 so you can head over now and listen as well. Update: There has been a correction. Due to crappy internet here at the Convenion Center we will NOT be doing a live show at 2 P.M. pacific time. The interview will air though later tonight at 7:30 P.M. pacific time (10:30 P.M. eastern time) on MMORadio.com. Update 2: We were apparently given slightly misleading information on the time the interview would air. We apologize to anybody to who may have tuned in tonight to hear it, but we can confirm that the inerview WILL air tomorrow, some time between 9am and 9pm. If you don't want to listen the full twelve hours (we can't blame you), then the most likely time to hear it will be at 7:30pm Pacific (10:30 Eastern). We will also try and get a downloadable copy from MMORadio for ourselves and upload that, but we can't promise anything. Sorry for the misinformation, but we only told you what we were told. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Thursday, May 11 2006 15:31 PM [Top] Super Smash Brothers Website Opens [ Nintendo ] Last night Nintendo revealed the new Super Smash Brothers game for the Wii and GameCube Café was in attendence to witness it all. Today, as Nintendo promised, the website for the game has been launched. At the site you can read about a few game details and watch the official trailer. However, we have that trailer here at the Café in ultra high resolution, hit the E3 Media link to check that out here and/or hit the source link to head over to the Smash Brothers website. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Thursday, May 11 2006 13:57 PM [Top] Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshots and Art [ Nintendo ] Here are the first screens and artwork for Nintedo's shocking announcement of Super Smash Bros. Brawl. We'll have the video up very soon. Images: Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 1 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 2 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 3 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 4 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 5 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 6 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 7 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 8 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 9 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 10 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 11 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 12 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Screenshot 13 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Artwork 1 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Artwork 2 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Artwork 3 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Artwork 4 Super Smash Bros. Brawl Artwork 5 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 11 2006 2:50 AM [Top] Uematsu Signs on For Brawl [ Smash Bros. Dojo ] As promised by Matsuhiro Sakurai at tonight's special Nintendo briefing, the official Smash Bros. website has updated with new information about the latest Smash Bros. game, Super Smash Bros. Brawl, including a big shocker. The game's music will be composed by none other than Nobuo Uematsu, composer of Square-Enix's legendary Final Fantasy series. It will be fully orchestrated, and will feature a full chorus. We know you're chomping at the bit to see this trailer, but fear not, we will have it uploaded VERY shortly with the highest resolution you will see for free ANYWHERE. Stay tuned, you do not want to miss this. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 11 2006 2:13 AM [Top] Super Smash Brothers Brawl Announced!! [ Nintendo ] Nintendo has announced the new Super Smash Brothers game, titled "Brawl." New characters added include: Metaknight, Pit from Kid Icarus, Zero Suit Samus, Wario, Snake from Metal Gear Solid. Characters shown at the private screening were Mario, Link, Kirby, and Pikachu. It will be online playable via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection and it will use the Wii shell controller, not the Wii Remote. We will have the video up shortly. This will however not be a launch title, it will release sometime in 2007. Super Mario Galaxy will also NOT be a launch title, it will release most likely in early 2007. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, May 10 2006 22:40 PM [Top] Updated Release Lists for DS, GBA, and GCN [ Nintendo ] Nintendo has updated their release dates for games coming out for the DS, GBA, and GameCube. Check them out below. PDF Documents: Nintendo DS Release Dates Nintendo GameCube Release Dates GBA Release Dates Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 23:03 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces Diddy Kong Racing DS [ Nintendo ] The classic N64 racer returns to the Nintendo DS with new enemies, obstacles, and characters. Racing as Diddy Kong or one of his friends, race through exotic locals as players face off with new enemies, as well as friends over Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. Images: Diddy Kong Racing DS Logo Diddy Kong Racing DS Screenshot Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 22:47 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces DK: King of Swing DS [ Nintendo ] Get back into the swing of things as Donkey Kong goes vertical. King K. Rool is up to no good again, and it’s up to Donkey Kong to swing into action. Using the same simple control scheme that made the DK: King of Swing Game Boy Advance SP game so accessible and fun to play, players of all skill levels can swing and climb to new heights made possible by the dual screens of Nintendo DS. Not only does Adventure mode feature Diddy Kong as a sub-character, but players can look forward to new moves, new items and a bunch of mini-games sure to make them go bananas. Not only that, but fun tutorials that ease new players into the game also can be accessed as mini-game challenges. If players are more in the mood to rumble, they can take on up to three pals in fun multiplayer challenges using DS Download Play and the DS Local Area Network. They can pick from Donkey Kong, Diddy Kong, Dixie Kong or Funky Kong, and let the monkey business begin. Images: DK: King of Swing DS Artwork DK: King of Swing DS Logo DK: King of Swing DS Screenshot 1 DK: King of Swing DS Screenshot 2 DK: King of Swing DS Screenshot 3 DK: King of Swing DS Screenshot 4 DK: King of Swing DS Screenshot 5 DK: King of Swing DS Screenshot 6 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 22:41 PM [Top] Nintendo announces Custom Robo Arena [ Nintendo ] KEY INFORMATION Custom Robo: The sport 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 explore a sci-fi landscape as they fight toward the Custom Robo championship, powering up their Robos as they go. With tons of unique parts, there are literally millions of possible Custom Robo combinations, giving players complete control over how they fight their battles. • Players can challenge their friends to one-on-one Robo battles anytime and anywhere using either Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, Multi-Card Play or DS Download Play. • Players use the touch screen to customize every aspect of their Robo, including its weaponry, and then polish it up after every battle to bring it back to top fighting form. Game storyline: 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 interplanetary 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 for the whole of society. Chibi Robo launches on the DS in Q4 2006. Images: Custom Robo Arena Screenshot 1 Custom Robo Arena Screenshot 2 Custom Robo Arena Screenshot 3 Custom Robo Arena Screenshot 4 Custom Robo Arena Screenshot 5 Custom Robo Arena Screenshot 6 Custom Robo Arena Screenshot 7 Custom Robo Arena Screenshot 8 Joe McCollum -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 22:35 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces ClubHouse Games [ Nintendo ] KEY INFORMATION It’s game night and everyone’s invited. Play more than 20 classic board, card and party games alone or with friends. • With familiar favorites like checkers, darts and poker, Clubhouse Games will appeal to everyone from kids to adults. Video game newcomers will appreciate the easy-to-use interface, while card game novices will appreciate each game’s rules section. • Players can challenge up to seven friends with one game card via Multi-Card Play or DS Download Play. Can’t play checkers without shouting “KING ME!” across the table? The in-game (PictoChat-like) feature takes table talk to a new level. • There’s no need to lug around cards or boards when you want to play a quick game. Clubhouse Games is one-stop gaming that will appeal to everyone’s tastes, whether they’re in the mood for bowling, backgammon, bridge or billiards. • Clubhouse Games is part of Nintendo’s Touch Generations library, which includes uniquely engaging titles that have appeal beyond core gamers. ClubHouse games launches on the Nintendo DS in Q4 2006. Images: ClubeHouse Games Logo ClubHouse Games Screenshot 1 ClubHouse Games Screenshot 2 ClubHouse Games Screenshot 3 ClubHouse Games Screenshot 4 ClubHouse Games Screenshot 5 ClubHouse Games Screenshot 6 ClubHouse Games Screenshot 7 ClubHouse Games Screenshot 8 ClubHouse Games Screenshot 9 ClubHouse Games Screenshot 10 Joe McCollum -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 22:27 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces DS Air [ Nintendo ] Players take their elite strike fighters to the skies and hunt down a mad dictator before he takes over the world. As Nintendo’s first realistic flight shooter on Nintendo DS, DS Air lets players customize their fighters with a state-of-the-art weapon loadout. Send wave after wave of enemy fighters to their doom in dogfights over land, sea and air. Meet a wingman for co-op play and soar to victory over Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. After being driven from his seat of power, a vicious dictator has fled to a remote, mountainous region to plan a military uprising. Mysteriously, the opposing army’s forces have received reinforcements, leading to speculation that an unknown nation is lending military assistance to the uprising. An ace pilot in an elite strike-fighter wing has been tasked with crushing the opposition forces and returning peace to the troubled region. Images: DS Air Artwork 1 DS Air Artwork 2 DS Air Artwork 3 DS Air Logo DS Air Screenshot 1 DS Air Screenshot 2 DS Air Screenshot 3 DS Air Screenshot 4 DS Air Screenshot 5 DS Air Screenshot 6 DS Air Screenshot 7 DS Air Screenshot 8 DS Air Screenshot 9 DS Air Screenshot 10 DS Air Screenshot 11 DS Air Screenshot 12 DS Air Screenshot 13 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 22:20 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces Children of Mana [ Nintendo ] KEY INFORMATION In the center of the world, the Mana Tree grows, sheltering everyone under its strong limbs. Its magic protects the world, but it also tempts some to steal its power for their own ends. Now, a handful of young heroes must band together to keep the magic of the Mana Tree from being corrupted by evil. • Play the adventure solo or with friends in four-player local wireless games. Or take on the most difficult challenges, fight formidable foes and even fight one another for loot. • Unlock the power of the gems. Players use hundreds of magic gems to customize characters with new abilities that suit their playing styles and prepare them for upcoming battles. Children of Mana launches on the DS in Q4 2006. Images: Child of Mana Logo Child of Mana Artwork Child of Mana Artwork Child of Mana Artwork Child of Mana Artwork Child of Mana Screenshot 1 Child of Mana Screenshot 2 Child of Mana Screenshot 3 Child of Mana Screenshot 4 Child of Mana Screenshot 5 Child of Mana Screenshot 6 Child of Mana Screenshot 7 Joe McCollum -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 22:06 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces Chibi-Robo: Park Patrol [ Nintendo ] KEY INFORMATION In the last Chibi-Robo, our diminutive hero restored happiness to the Sanderson home, but in this DS sequel, he’s taking on the great outdoors. • Playground equipment in the park is disappearing mysteriously and the flowers the park have been transformed by evil monsters. It’s up to Chibi-Robo to save the day and make the park a nice place to visit again. • This time around, Chibi-Robo gets to flex his mechanical muscles in new and interesting ways. He rides buggies, cars and boats across lawns and ponds, fights mysterious enemies with his trusty squirter, dances in the park to give life to the plants there and builds playground equipment to make the park a better place. Chibi Robo does not currently have a DS release date. Images: Chibi Robo: Park Patrol Logo Chibi Robo: Park Patrol Artwork Chibi Robo: Park Patrol Artwork Chibi Robo: Park Patrol Screenshot 1 Chibi Robo: Park Patrol Screenshot 2 Chibi Robo: Park Patrol Screenshot 3 Chibi Robo: Park Patrol Screenshot 4 Chibi Robo: Park Patrol Screenshot 5 Joe McCollum -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 21:58 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces Elite Beat Agents [ Nintendo ] In a jam? Well, all these guys DO is jam! Prepare to rock as these beat masters use their groovy moves to save the day. As the music plays, players tap the screen, trace rhythmic patterns and keep the beat as the story unfolds on the top screen. Every scene is accompanied by rump-shaking tunes, but players have to keep the Elite Beat Agents grooving. The worse players do, the worse the story might end up. Rhythm games have come and gone, but no one has ever seen anything like the Elite Beat Agents. Whether they’re helping a lost dog find its way home or helping a babysitter charm a hunky football player, no crisis is too weird. The public knows of government agencies like the FBI and CIA, but little is known of this super-secret agency. Code-named “Elite Beat Agents,” these men in black are heroes’ heroes and the coolest group of guys this world has ever known. Of course, according to official records, they do not exist. Their leader, an ex-CIA agent named Commander Kahn, scans the world for cries of help. When he finds one, he dispatches the agents, who assist their targets by performing a song and dance. The hypnotic nature of their rocking revives the targets with “Groovy” energy that boosts their willpower and helps them overcome their obstacles. Images: Elite Beat Agents Logo Elite Beat Agents Screenshot 1 Elite Beat Agents Screenshot 2 Elite Beat Agents Screenshot 3 Elite Beat Agents Screenshot 4 Elite Beat Agents Screenshot 5 Elite Beat Agents Screenshot 6 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 21:53 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces Hotel Dusk: Room 215 [ Nintendo ] Los Angeles, 1979. Players take the role of Kyle Hyde, an ex-cop turned salesman trying to track down a missing friend. Clues lead to an eerie, old hotel rumored to have one very strange room – a room where wishes are granted. Players check in and get ready for a night of surprises as they meet a cast of unusual characters and try to unravel the mystery in Hotel Dusk: Room 215, a gritty new graphic adventure for the Nintendo DS. Players follow the plot twists and turns as they hunt for their missing friend and investigate the mysteries of Hotel Dusk. The DS system is held like a book, which allows characters on the screens to face left or right for more realistic conversations. The unique controls let even novices enjoy themselves. The unique hand-drawn character portraits and their animations are in black and white, making them exceedingly distinctive and able stand out, graphically speaking, from the rest of the game. In the tradition of Trace Memory, the use of the DS to solve riddles is alive and well in Hotel Dusk: Room 215. Images: Hotel Dusk: Room 215 Logo Hotel Dusk: Room 215 Screenshot 1 Hotel Dusk: Room 215 Screenshot 2 Hotel Dusk: Room 215 Screenshot 3 Hotel Dusk: Room 215 Screenshot 4 Hotel Dusk: Room 215 Screenshot 5 Hotel Dusk: Room 215 Screenshot 6 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 21:48 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces Kirby DS [ Nintendo ] Kirby’s back and ready for a bellyful of adventure. When someone steals some strawberry shortcake, the pink powerhouse sets out after them, learning new skills. Players can expect all the floating, jumping and battling of a classic Kirby™game, but this time, Kirby’s copy abilities have been massively boosted. Not only can players mix and match copy abilities by using the stylus to drag them together inside Kirby’s copy center (located on the touch screen), but the powers themselves now have the ability to affect the environment, as well as foes. Burn trees and grasses with the Fire ability or freeze water with the Ice ability. In sub-game mode, this game also features multiplayer fun for up to four players, using either Multi-Card or DS Download Play over DS Local Area Network. Images: Kirby DS Screenshot 1 Kirby DS Screenshot 2 Kirby DS Screenshot 3 Kirby DS Screenshot 4 Kirby DS Screenshot 5 Kirby DS Screenshot 6 Kirby DS Screenshot 8 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 21:42 PM [Top] The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Screens and Info [ Nintendo ] The epic story of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker continues as Link finds himself lost and alone in unknown seas in a new adventure. Featuring intuitive touch-screen controls and innovative puzzles, The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass offers new challenges for fans of the series and an easy-to-grasp introduction for gamers new to The Legend of Zelda. But time grows short, and only the Phantom Hourglass can buy Link the minutes he’ll need to survive. The stylus makes controlling Link easier than ever. Tap on the screen to make Link move, or sweep the stylus around him to swing the sword. Players can even draw a path for his boomerang and send it flying into hard-to-reach targets. Players can stash the map on the top screen for quick reference or drop it to the touch screen to make notes, study enemies, or chart a path for their boat to follow while they man the cannons. 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. The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass is controlled almost entirely by the stylus. Using the touch screen, players direct Link’s movements and attacks: A sweeping motion triggers Link’s spin attack and tapping characters makes Link speak with them. The stylus controls offer a more intuitive means of playing the game and open up new possibilities for puzzle solving. The game action takes place primarily on the touch screen, with a map on the top screen. However, the player can inspect the map on the touch screen and make notes using the stylus. The notes on these maps are saved for review on the top screen during game play. Players use the map to chart courses for their ships, too. Using the stylus to draw a path through the islands, players set their ships’ courses. Then, as the ships automatically follow the paths drawn, players can control their ships’ cannons to target oncoming enemies. In dungeons, players can use the touch screen to draw paths for boomerangs, sending them flying around corners or into otherwise unreachable areas. The stylus-driven game play is the most compelling new feature of The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass. Players use the stylus to control Link, chart courses for their ships, mark notes on maps and solve puzzles in both the overworld and dungeons. A two-player wireless battle mode pits one player, as Link, against another player who controls the enemies pursuing him. Link must collect enough Force Gems before the enemies close in. Images: The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Artwork The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Logo The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Screenshot 1 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Screenshot 2 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Screenshot 3 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Screenshot 4 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Screenshot 5 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Screenshot 6 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Screenshot 7 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Screenshot 8 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 21:38 PM [Top] New Big Brain Academy Information and Screens [ Nintendo ] KEY INFORMATION How much does your brain weigh? Find out with Big Brain Academy, the DS title that makes mental exercise incredibly fun. • Big Brain Academy is a series of minigames (called Activities) that are designed to exercise the brain. Players can “weigh” their brain in Test mode, earn medals for individual activities in Practice mode or play against friends and family in Versus mode. • Big Brain Academy’s Test mode will quiz players in five areas: thinking, memorization, computation, analysis and identification. After taking the test, players will be told the “weight” of their brain and areas of strength or weakness – and it will identify a brain type that is similar to their own. Once they have a score, they can keep playing the game to exercise the brain in areas where it needs improvement based on their performance in the Test mode. • This title features a riotous multiplayer mode in which up to eight people can play with a single game card. Players will compete in Activities to see who has the “biggest” brain, and the results will be displayed for all to see. A demo test can also be sent to another DS. Big Brain Academy releases on the DS on June 5, 2006. Images: Big Brain Academy Screenshot 1 Big Brain Academy Screenshot 2 Big Brain Academy Screenshot 3 Big Brain Academy Screenshot 4 Big Brain Academy Screenshot 5 Big Brain Academy Screenshot 6 Big Brain Academy Screenshot 7 Big Brain Academy Screenshot 8 Big Brain Academy Screenshot 9 Big Brain Academy Screenshot 10 Joe McCollum -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 21:32 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces Magical Vacation [ Nintendo ] The students of Will O’ Wisp magical academy have a little problem: Their teacher has mysteriously disappeared. After commandeering a handful of rockets to rescue her, they’ve wound up on a strange (and sometimes scary) adventure through outer space. Now players must rescue both their classmates AND their teacher – and just maybe the whole solar system while they’re at it.Explore strange planets. Players see the sights of this strange, sci-fi fantasy setting as they uncover the secret behind their teacher’s disappearance in this epic role-playing game. The stylus controls everything, from combat to conversations to outfitting allies. Simple controls make it easy to play but a challenge to master. Players can link up wirelessly with five friends and explore the amigo dungeon together – they’ll find unending challenges and incredible rewards as they delve into the depths of this unique multiplayer experience. Madeleine, a respected and powerful teacher at Will O’ Wisp magical academy, tells her students that she will undertake a dangerous mission in space and trains them for combat should the need arise. After not hearing from her for some time, the kids stumble upon a hangar of rocket ships. One by one, they board individual ships and crash-land on distant planets alone. The player hops from planet to planet assembling the group of classmates. Once together, they learn of an evil sorcerer – a former student of the academy who now has ambitions to destroy reality – and set out to stop him. In Magical Vacation, players begin their quests as students at a magical academy. As they progress through the game, they will travel to new lands and cities, fight monsters to earn experience points and buy weapons, armor and items from shops. Characters will gain levels and power as they earn more and more experience points. Later in the game, players become free to wander and explore the world. Multiplayer amigo dungeon and tag mode extend game play by giving players a unique “amigo” dungeon they can explore with a total of six people. Additionally, tag mode allows players to exchange data with one another and grow unique “egg” characters that slowly grow and hatch over time. Images: Magical Vacation Artwork 1 Magical Vacation Artwork 2 Magical Vacation Artwork 3 Magical Vacation Artwork 4 Magical Vacation Logo Magical Vacation Screenshot 1 Magical Vacation Screenshot 2 Magical Vacation Screenshot 3 Magical Vacation Screenshot 4 Magical Vacation Screenshot 5 Magical Vacation Screenshot 6 Magical Vacation Screenshot 7 Magical Vacation Screenshot 8 Magical Vacation Screenshot 9 Magical Vacation Screenshot 10 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 21:31 PM [Top] New Magnetica Screens and Info [ Nintendo ] Players connect marbles of the same color to eliminate them before they reach the end of the line. While game-play simplicity is the key to Magnetica – all actions are controlled with a flick of the stylus – skilled players will be able to form massive chains and use special items to rack up points. Three different single-player modes will keep players’ styluses busy. Challenge mode features 99 levels on four difficulty settings, while Quest mode offers many different missions. Or forgo the timer and take on Puzzle mode, where players must eliminate all marbles on the screen with a limited supply of their own. Obstacles like wind, water, switches and multiple launchers add to the frantic fun. Players prove their skills in Versus mode, where two people compete over a local wireless connection using either one or two game cards to see who is the Magnetica master. (Game options are the same using one or two game cards.) In Magnetica, marbles roll down a twisted sprial path toward the goal and players must stop them. When new marbles appear in the launcher, grab them with the stylus and fire them into the oncoming ones. If players match three or more of the same color, they will disappear. And since like colors attract one another, players can eliminate one color and cause others to crash into each other, forming massive chains of marble elimination. Images: Magnetica Screenshot 1 Magnetica Screenshot 2 Magnetica Screenshot 3 Magnetica Screenshot 4 Magnetica Screenshot 5 Magnetica Screenshot 6 Magnetica Screenshot 7 Magnetica Screenshot 8 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 21:13 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces Mario Hoops 3-on-3 [ Nintendo ] It’s a whole new ball game as Mario rocks the rim on the Nintendo DS. Get that magic touch. There are plenty of basketball games out there, but none with the hands-on control of Mario Hoops 3-on-3. Players use the touch screen to get their game on as they execute tricky dribbles, special passes and sweet shots – all with strokes and taps of the stylus. Players choose their teams of three characters from the Mario universe and hit the parquet. Power-ups like Red Shells and Bob-ombs can turn the tide as they chase down coins – they will affect the score, so players collect as many as they can as they drive to the hoop. Whether playing against friends on a local wireless connection, jamming through a tournament or just playing mini-games, there’s a mode for everyone. Images: Mario Hoops 3-on-3 Artwork Mario Hoops 3-on-3 Logo Mario Hoops 3-on-3 Screenshot 1 Mario Hoops 3-on-3 Screenshot 2 Mario Hoops 3-on-3 Screenshot 3 Mario Hoops 3-on-3 Screenshot 4 Mario Hoops 3-on-3 Screenshot 5 Mario Hoops 3-on-3 Screenshot 6 Mario Hoops 3-on-3 Screenshot 7 Mario Hoops 3-on-3 Screenshot 8 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 21:04 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2 [ Nintendo ] In the original Mario vs. Donkey Kong, Mario was trying to find all the Mini Marios ... but this time, it’s up to them to save the day. Players use the stylus and the touch screen to guide Mini Marios through mind-boggling, obstacle-filled levels. Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2 allows players to create their own maps with a new level editor. Once a map is created, players can send it across the world via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. Players also can use Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection to download maps created by others, check out a player-ranking system and access special bonuses. These unique features are sure to be a smash hit with puzzle fans everywhere. Pauline returns! Pauline appeared in the original Donkey Kong as the woman that Mario was attempting to rescue, and was one of the first recognizable characters created by Nintendo. After a decades-long hiatus, Pauline is finally returning to the world of video games in Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2. Pauline is the object of Donkey Kong’s misplaced affections, so players must rescue her all over again. Game storyline: It seems folks love those Mini Mario toys. So much so that the Mario Toy Company has expanded the line to include Mini Donkey Kong, Mini Toad and Mini Peach figures to the series. With all these toys bringing him more money than he knows what to do with, Mario decides to fulfill his lifelong dream and open a theme park called Super Mini Mario World. The opening-day crowd includes Pauline and Donkey Kong, who immediately falls head over heels for the lovely lass. The proud ape tries to show off his Mini DK toy to Pauline, but she picks the Mini Mario toy over his and the jealous Donkey Kong becomes enraged. He smashes the displays, destroys the toys and takes Pauline to the top floor of the amusement park. Players must find Pauline and save the day. Images: Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2 Artwork 1 Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2 Artwork 2 Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2 Logo Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2 Screenshot 1 Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2 Screenshot 2 Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2 Screenshot 3 Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2 Screenshot 4 Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2 Screenshot 5 Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2 Screenshot 6 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 20:50 PM [Top] New Super Mario Bros Images [ Nintendo ] You all know what Super Mario Bros is about. Princess kidnapped by angry dinosaur, Italian plumber saves her. Look at the screenshots. Images: New Super Mario Bros Artwork 1 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 2 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 3 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 4 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 5 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 6 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 7 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 8 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 9 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 10 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 11 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 12 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 13 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 14 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 15 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 16 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 17 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 18 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 19 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 20 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 21 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 22 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 23 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 24 New Super Mario Bros Artwork 25 New Super Mario Bros Screenshot 1 New Super Mario Bros Screenshot 2 New Super Mario Bros Screenshot 3 New Super Mario Bros Screenshot 4 New Super Mario Bros Screenshot 5 New Super Mario Bros Screenshot 6 New Super Mario Bros Screenshot 7 New Super Mario Bros Screenshot 8 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 20:14 PM [Top] Pokemon Ranger Artwork and Screens [ Nintendo ] Nintendo has released some screenshots for the upcoming DS game Pokemon Ranger. Check them out below. Images: Pokemon Ranger Logo Pokemon Ranger Artwork 1 Pokemon Ranger Artwork 2 Pokemon Ranger Screenshot 1 Pokemon Ranger Screenshot 2 Pokemon Ranger Screenshot 3 Pokemon Ranger Screenshot 4 Pokemon Ranger Screenshot 5 Pokemon Ranger Screenshot 6 Pokemon Ranger Screenshot 7 Pokemon Ranger Screenshot 8 Pokemon Ranger Screenshot 9 Pokemon Ranger Screenshot 10 Pokemon Ranger Screenshot 11 Pokemon Ranger Screenshot 12 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 19:26 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces Wario Ware: Smooth Moves for Wii [ Nintendo ] The WarioWare team took an idea so wacky, it could only be made with the latest technology ... the Wii Remote. WarioWare is back with a whole new set of moves. When Wario stumbles upon a strange device called a Form Baton, he and his friends use it to learn new moves that are as fun as they are wacky. With hundreds of microgames, this game is just as wild as you’d expect from the name WarioWare, but the game play has been revolutionized. Under Wario’s tutelage, and with the help of the Wii Remote, players will swing, spin and squat their way to victory. With about 200 lightning-quick microgames and controls that range from scribbling to flailing, WarioWare: Smooth Moves takes interactive gaming to a whole new level. All players need is a Wii Remote and their best moves to be the champ. With games that are as much fun to play as they are to WATCH people play, WarioWare: Smooth Moves brings the party to its feet. It’s hilarious for players and audiences alike. Wario and his pals learn fun, wacky moves after discovering a strange book and a mystical device called the Form Baton. Familiar characters from the WarioWare universe will return to this installment and some new ones will appear. Players must clear fast-paced sets of microgames, changing the way they hold the Wii Remote each time. As they do, they’ll unlock more microgames and souvenirs. The game’s full-body controls add a whole new level of insanity to an already frenetic experience. Wario Ware: Smooth Moves will be a launch title for the Wii. Check out the first media for the game below Images: Wario Ware: Smooth Moves Screenshot Wario Ware: Smooth Moves Artwork 1 Wario Ware: Smooth Moves Artwork 2 Wario Ware: Smooth Moves Artwork 3 Wario Ware: Smooth Moves Logo Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 19:05 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces Wii Sports [ Nintendo ] Today at Nintendo's press briefing, the company announced an array of simple sports games playable with the Wii controller, including Golf, Tennis, and Baseball. It is unknown if the Wii sports games will be packed together in one disc or will be seperate games. Here's more info about each. Tennis (1-4 players): Players grab the controller like a racket and swing – the game will register forehands, backhands, volleys, lobs, slices, spin and power depending on how fast the user swings and at what angle. Don’t worry about moving around the court to get to the ball – the game automatically moves players into position. Baseball (1-2 players): Grip the controller like a bat and swat fastballs out of the park in a home run derby. Timing and bat speed will make all the difference between going yard and whiffing, so keep an eye on the ball and swing for the fences. In the two-player game, one player pitches and the other bats. Golf (1 player): Step up to the tee, hold the controller like a golf club and swing naturally to smack the ball onto the green. The harder players swing the club, the farther the ball will fly, so be sure to take some practice swings before going for the pin. After reaching the green, line up putts carefully, practice the stroke and try to hole out. Additional games may be added to the Wii Sports group. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 19:01 PM [Top] Star Fox DS Stuff [ Nintendo ] Star Fox returns to its roots with a blistering space shooter on the Nintendo DS. Players hop into their Arwing fighter and fight through a unique branching storyline of missions, all rendered in gorgeous 3-D. Star Fox DS brings a whole new strategic element to the series with a commander's view of the mission. Using the touch screen, players can draw the routes they and their teammates will take, then battle the enemies they encounter as they take over bases and strategically advance across the map. Players can blow their friends out of the sky as they dogfight with up to eight players over a local wireless connection or take on up to four players form around the world on Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. Images: Star Fox DS Logo Star Fox DS Artwork Star Fox DS Screenshot 1 Star Fox DS Screenshot 2 Star Fox DS Screenshot 3 Star Fox DS Screenshot 4 Star Fox DS Screenshot 5 Star Fox DS Screenshot 6 Star Fox DS Screenshot 7 Star Fox DS Screenshot 8 Star Fox DS Screenshot 9 Star Fox DS Screenshot 10 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 19:01 PM [Top] Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue and Red Rescue Team [ Nintendo ] KEY INFORMATION • For the first time ever, the player is a Pokémon, speaking and interacting with other characters in a world populated only by Pokémon. • A deep, involving and dramatic story brings the player into a world of Pokémon not seen or experienced before. • Strategic battles enhance the adventure. • Randomly generated dungeons make every mission unique. Game storyline: One day the player awakens to find that he or she has been turned into a Pokémon. The land is being ravaged by natural disasters so the player decides to form a rescue team with a partner Pokémon. The player can interact with many different Pokémon on various missions while trying to uncover their true purpose and destiny. An engrossing story of adventure, redemption and, most of all, friendship. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team launches on GBA and Blue Rescue Team on the DS on September 18, 2006. Images: Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team Logo Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team Screenshot 1 Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team Screenshot 2 Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team Screenshot 3 Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team Screenshot 4 Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team Screenshot 5 Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team Screenshot 6 Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team Screenshot 7 Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team Screenshot 8 Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team Screenshot 9 Joe McCollum -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 18:55 PM [Top] Super Mario Galaxy Screenshot, Artwork, and Info [ Nintendo ] The ultimate Nintendo hero is taking the ultimate step … out into space. Join Mario as he ushers in a new era of video games, defying gravity across all the planets in the galaxy. Shake, tilt and point! Mario takes advantage of all the unique aspects of the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controller, unleashing new moves as players shake the controller and even point at and drag items with the pointer. Mario essentially defined the 3-D platforming genre with Super Mario 64, and this game proves once again that he is king. Players perform mind-bending, low-gravity jumps across wild alien terrain as they experience platforming for a new generation. When some creature escapes into space with Princess Peach, Mario gives chase, exploring bizarre planets all across the galaxy. Players run, jump and battle enemies as they explore all the planets in the galaxy. Since this game makes full use of all the features of the Wii Remote, players have to do all kinds of things to succeed: pressing buttons, swinging the Wii Remote and the Nunchuk, and even pointing at and dragging things with the pointer. Since he’s in space, Mario can perform mind-bending jumps unlike anything he’s done before. He’ll also have a wealth of new moves that are all based around tilting, pointing and shaking the Wii Remote. Super Mario Galaxy is a launch title for the Wii. Check out the latest artwork for the game below. Images: Super Mario Galaxy Screenshot Super Mario Galaxy Artwork Super Mario Galaxy Logo Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 18:50 PM [Top] New Artwork and Information for Zelda: Twilight Princess [ Nintendo ] KEY INFORMATION When an evil darkness enshrouds the land of Hyrule, a young farm boy named Link must awaken the hero – and the animal – within. • When Link travels to the Twilight Realm, he transforms into a wolf and must scour the land with the help of a mysterious girl named Midna. • Players ride into battle against troops of foul creatures using an amazing horseback combat system, then take on massive bosses that must be seen to be believed. • Many puzzles stand between Link and the fulfillment of his quest, so players must sharpen their wits as they hunt for weapons and items. Game storyline: Link, a young man raised as a wrangler in a small, rural village, is ordered by the mayor to attend the Hyrule Summit. He sets off, oblivious to the dark fate that has descended upon the kingdom. When he enters the Twilight Realm that has covered Hyrule, he transforms into a wolf and is captured. A mysterious figure named Midna helps him break free. With the aid of her magic, they set off to free the land from the shadows. The Legend of Zelda: Twlight Princess will launch at the same time as the Wii for both GameCube and Wii. Images: Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork Joe McCollum -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 18:43 PM [Top] Sudoku Gridmaster Info [ Nintendo ] Sudoku Gridmaster hsa plenty of helpufl gameplay features to help players solve even the most complicated puzzles. Beginners will love the four in-depth tutorials that can be accessed at any time - even in the middle of a game. Experts will appreciate the ability to highlight entire rows and columns with a single touch. And everyone will wonder how they survived without the ability to highlight all instances of the same number at once. With four difficulties and tons to unlock, Sudoku Gridmaster, launching June 26 for DS, will satisfy both novices and experts to the cult hit game. Images: Sudoku Gridmaster Screenshot 1 Sudoku Gridmaster Screenshot 2 Sudoku Gridmaster Screenshot 3 Sudoku Gridmaster Screenshot 4 Sudoku Gridmaster Screenshot 5 Sudoku Gridmaster Screenshot 6 Sudoku Gridmaster Screenshot 7 Sudoku Gridmaster Screenshot 8 Sudoku Gridmaster Screenshot 9 Sudoku Gridmaster Screenshot 10 Sudoku Gridmaster Screenshot 11 Sudoku Gridmaster Screenshot 12 Sudoku Gridmaster Screenshot 13 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 18:43 PM [Top] Super Paper Mario Announced for GameCube [ Nintendo ] KEY INFORMATION The newest chapter of the Paper Mario story isn’t just out of this world … it’s out of this dimension. • What at first glance appears to be a 2-D sidescroller ripped straight from the pages of the Paper Mario universe soon turns into a 3-D action-adventure that defies all video game logic. Fusing 2-D and 3-D perspectives, not to mention RPG and platformer elements, the game slips back and forth between dimensions. The action sprawls across eight worlds filled with traps, puzzles, bizarre mysteries and items that often draw themselves out of thin air. • Oh, and just because Mario’s in the title doesn’t mean he’s the only star – players also get to play as Peach and Bowser. Super Paper Mario launches Q4 2006 on the GameCube. Images: Super Paper Mario Artwork Super Paper Mario Artwork Super Paper Mario Logo 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 Joe McCollum -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 18:37 PM [Top] Metroid Prime 3 Corruption Artwork and Info [ Nintendo ] If you think you knew what it felt like to be the bounty hunter behind the visor, think again. Take aim at evil with Nintendo’s revolutionary controller. Players control Samus by moving with the Nunchuk controller and aiming with the pointer, allowing for a level of immersion unlike anything they have ever experienced. Through the eyes of Samus, players experience a quantum leap in first-person control as they wield the Wii Remote, the ultimate device for the first-person shooter genre. Samus will employ well-known power-ups like the Grapple Beam and Morph Ball, as well as a bunch of new surprises, to help her survive her coming trials. The Galactic Federation’s Base Sector Zero is under attack by Space Pirates. Samus must boot up the generator to restore the defense systems. But at the end of her path, someone awful is waiting for her. The war initiated by Dark Samus and the Space Pirates rages across many planets as they attempt to corrupt each with Phazon seeds. Players use the Wii Remote and Nunchuk to explore alien landscapes, hunt for weapons and information, and destroy the seeds. Saving the planets from Corruption isn’t enough, though. Eventually, players must take down Samus’ mortal enemy, Dark Samus. Besides using the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers to pull off amazing feats like aiming and blasting in midair or at a full run, players also will have an array of different weapons at their disposal. In true Metroid fashion, these will become powered up as the game progresses. Not only that, but the controller will be used for a number of other game elements beyond the traditional first-person shooter standards. Images: Metroid Prime 3 Corruption Artwork 1 Metroid Prime 3 Corruption Artwork 2 Metroid Prime 3 Corruption Artwork 3 Metroid Prime 3 Corruption Artwork 4 Metroid Prime 3 Corruption Logo Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 18:36 PM [Top] Wii Console and Controller Shots [ Nintendo ] Nintendo has released an array of images of the Wii console and its controller. Among them, are some new images showing off the console and the redesigned controller, as well as our firstr look at the shell for the Wii controller. Check them out below. Images: Wii Console w/ GameCube and Wii Discs Wii Controller Shell Wii Controller and Console 1 Wii Controller and Console 2 Wii Controller and Console 3 Wii Controller w/ Nunchaku Attachment 1 Wii Controller w/ Nunchaku Attachment 2 Various Views of the Wii Controller Wii Controller Functionality Wii Controller Wii Console Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 18:31 PM [Top] Donkey Kong Bongo Blast Announced for GameCube [ Nintendo ] KEY INFORMATION • Donkey Kong and his pals have gotten their mitts on some high-powered Barrel Jets – incredible engines that boost when struck by a pilot. By beating on the DK Bongos controller, players can make their character swoop up, bank side to side and launch attacks on rivals. (The game also can be played using a Nintendo GameCube controller.) • Players challenge the Kremlings or up to three pals on five worlds, each boasting 3-D aerial maps filled with countless obstacles and powerful items. With four people beating the bongos as they battle for the skies, this game is more party than race. Donkey Kong Bongo Blast launches on the GameCube Q4 2006. Images: DK Bongo Blast Logo DK Bongo Blast Screenshot 1 DK Bongo Blast Screenshot 2 DK Bongo Blast Screenshot 3 DK Bongo Blast Screenshot 4 DK Bongo Blast Screenshot 5 DK Bongo Blast Screenshot 6 DK Bongo Blast Screenshot 7 DK Bongo Blast Screenshot 8 DK Bongo Blast Screenshot 9 DK Bongo Blast Screenshot 10 Joe McCollum -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 18:28 PM [Top] Tenchu: Dark Secret Info [ Nintendo ] Tenchu: Dark Secret takes place takes place after the events of Tenchu: Birth of the Stealth Assassins. The plot revolves around Princess Shizu, a young woman who is married to a cruel warlord named Lord Hakkaku. After an attempt on her life, she is discovered by Rikimaru and Ayama of the Azuma Shinobi Ryu ninja clan. They vow to protect her from further harm and discover the identity of her mysterious assailant. Using Nintendo WiFi connection players can engage in multiplayer deathmatches as well as buy, sell, and trade items. Look for Dark Secret to come to the DS on August 21 in North America. Images: Tenchu: Dark Secret Screenshot 1 Tenchu: Dark Secret Screenshot 2 Tenchu: Dark Secret Screenshot 3 Tenchu: Dark Secret Screenshot 4 Tenchu: Dark Secret Screenshot 5 Tenchu: Dark Secret Screenshot 6 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 18:21 PM [Top] Baten Kaitos Origins Announced for GameCube [ Nintendo ] KEY INFORMATION Baten Kaitos Origins is a prequel to Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean, a Nintendo GameCube exclusive released in late 2004. The plot revolves around a group of characters who are struggling to discover the source of frightening changes (both natural and political) that are occurring in their world. During their journey, they will learn many details that help flesh out the first game, including how the despotic Empire government came to be. • Players explore a massive world filled with memorable characters and bizarre creatures. From the high-tech high-rises of the empire to a rustic farming hamlets, the level and character design in Baten Kaitos Origins is wildly innovative. • Players immerse themselves in the Baten Kaitos universe. With a twisting, turning storyline, dozens of side quests and thousands of lines of voice-acted dialogue, they will easily spend 80 hours in this world. • Players leap into the fray with the real-time combat system. With hundreds of weapons, armor pieces and items at their disposal, even fights against the smallest monsters will be a fun and frantic experience. Game storyline: Baten Kaitos Origins takes place 20 years before the first Baten Kaitos game. It explains how the diabolical Emperor Geldoblame rose to power, and it also fills in many details about the heroes from the first title. In addition, players will learn about the origins of the world itself and why the Lost Ocean is returning. Baten Kaitos Origins launches September 25, 2006 for the GameCube. Images: Baten Kaitos Origins Artwork Baten Kaitos Origins Artwork Baten Kaitos Origins Logo Baten Kaitos Origins Screenshot 1 Baten Kaitos Origins Screenshot 2 Baten Kaitos Origins Screenshot 3 Baten Kaitos Origins Screenshot 4 Baten Kaitos Origins Screenshot 5 Baten Kaitos Origins Screenshot 6 Baten Kaitos Origins Screenshot 7 Baten Kaitos Origins Screenshot 8 Baten Kaitos Origins Screenshot 9 Baten Kaitos Origins Screenshot 10 Joe McCollum -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 18:19 PM [Top] The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Wii Screenshot [ Nintendo ] When an evil darkness enshrouds the land of Hyrule, a young farm boy named Link must awaken the hero – and the animal – within. When Link travels to the Twilight Realm, he transforms into a wolf and must scour the land with the help of a mysterious girl named Midna. Using the power and unique control of the Wii console, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess features incredibly precise aiming control using the Wii Remote. The Wii Remote and the Nunchuk controller are used for a variety of game activities, including fishing and special sword attacks. Players ride into battle against troops of foul creatures using an amazing horseback combat system, then take on massive bosses that must be seen to be believed. Many puzzles stand between Link and the fulfillment of his quest, so players must sharpen their wits as they hunt for weapons and items. Link, a young man raised as a wrangler in a small, rural village, is ordered by the mayor to attend the Hyrule Summit. He sets off, oblivious to the dark fate that has descended upon the kingdom. When he enters the Twilight Realm that has covered Hyrule, he transforms into a wolf and is captured. A mysterious figure named Midna helps him break free. With the aid of her magic, they set off to free the land from the shadows. Link must explore the vast land of Hyrule and uncover the mystery behind its plunge into darkness. As he does, he’ll have to enlist the aid of friendly folk, solve puzzles and battle his way through dangerous dungeons. In the Twilight Realm, he’ll have to use his wolf abilities and Midna’s magic to bring light to the land. Besides his trusty sword and shield, Link will use his bow and arrows, fight while on horseback and use a wealth of other items, both new and old. Players can use the Wii Remote as a fishing pole, while a spin of the Nunchuk controller executes a spin attack. Check out the first screenshot of the Wii version of Zelda below. Images: The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Wii Screenshot Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 18:15 PM [Top] Yoshi's Island 2 Details [ Nintendo ] A mysterious floating island has suddenly appeared over peaceful Yoshi's Island. Soon after its arrival, a gaggle of kids disappear from the island school. Thankfully, Baby Mario, Baby Peach, and Baby Donkey Kong avoided being kidnapped. Now, Yoshi and the three young superstars must set out on a wild and colorful quest to rescue the kids and investigate the ominous island hovering overhead. Each of the three kids give Yoshi different abilities when they cling on his back, opening the door to a new world of gameplay possibilities. Look for Yoshi's Island 2 to hit the DS in the fourth quarter of this year. Images: Yoshi's Island 2 Artwork Logo Yoshi's Island 2 Artwork 1 Yoshi's Island 2 Artwork 2 Yoshi's Island 2 Screenshot 1 Yoshi's Island 2 Screenshot 2 Yoshi's Island 2 Screenshot 3 Yoshi's Island 2 Screenshot 4 Yoshi's Island 2 Screenshot 5 Yoshi's Island 2 Screenshot 6 Yoshi's Island 2 Screenshot 7 Yoshi's Island 2 Screenshot 8 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 17:55 PM [Top] Nintendo Releases List of Upcoming Wii Games [ Nintendo ] Nintendo has released a list of all of the titles heading to the Nintendo Wii in the future from a massive variety of companies. Check it out. Activision Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Call of Duty 3 AQ Interactive Boxing Action Atari Dragon Ball Z Budokai: Tenkaichi 2 Atlus Trauma Center: Second Opinion BANPRESTO Family Action Game Buena Vista Games Disney’s Chicken Little: Ace in Action Disney’s Meet the Robinsons Capcom Resident Evil series SIMPLE series D3Publisher Original Action Game Eidos Title TBD Electronic Arts Madden NFL ’07 Medal of Honor Airborne EPOCH Title TBD From Software Action Game Genki Title TBD Hudson Soft BOMBERMAN LAND Flight Game JALECO Title TBD KOEI Sengoku Action Konami Digital Entertainment Elebits Soccer Game Majesco Bust-A-Move Revolution Marvelous Interactive BOKUJO MONOGATARI Heroes KAWA NO NUSHITSURI Original Simulation Mastiff Mr. D. Goes to Town (working title) Midway Games The Ant Bully Happy Feet Milestone New Vertical Scroll Shooting Game New Action Game MTO Character Action Game SAN-X All-star Revolution Namco/Bandai FINAL FURLONG Mobile Suit GUNDAM SD GUNDAM G BREAKER DIGIMON ONE PIECE UNLIMITED ADVENTURE New Action Game New RPG TAMAGOTCHI Title TBD Natsume (developed by Marvelous) Harvest Moon Nintendo Disaster: Day of Crisis Excite Truck Fire Emblem Metroid Prime 3: Corruption Project H.A.M.M.E.R. Super Mario Galaxy The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess WarioWare: Smooth Moves Sega Wii Sports Super Monkey Ball Banana Blitz SONIC WILD FIRE SNK Metal Slug Anthology Spike Necro-Nesia Jawa SQUARE ENIX CODENAME: FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: Crystal Bearers DRAGON QUEST SWORDS™: The Masked Queen and the Tower of Mirrors TAITO Turn IT around!! Let’s go by train! Cooking Mama -Cooking with International Friends- TECMO Super Swing Golf PANGYA The Game Factory Title TBD THQ Avatar: The Last Airbender SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab Pixar Cars Action Game TOMY Battle Action Open Season Rayman Raving Rabbids Ubisoft RED STEEL Vivendi Universal Games Title TBD Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Title TBD Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 17:28 PM [Top] Project H.A.M.M.E.R. Images and Info [ Nintendo ] Killer robots are attacking major cities across the United States, and the military is powerless to stop them. Players control one of Project H.A.M.M.E.R.’s cyborg prototypes: half-man, half-machine, with an extraordinary weapon – and the power to save the world. Grab the Wii Remote and start swinging. Equipped with a hammer of amazing strength, players represent the only hope against an unstoppable army of marauding automatons. Players use the Nunchuk controller in one hand to maneuver through a variety of vast and detailed environments. They use the Wii Remote in the other just like a real hammer to control the hero’s weapon. Swing the controller side to side to make the in-game hammer send enemies flying. Lift it into the air and bring it down to smash robots to smithereens. Use the A button for quick hammer flurries. Enter a world of nonstop action, excitement and relentless destruction. Players will reduce rampaging robots to scrap metal as they battle their way across the United States. If they see an enemy, they smash it. And they continue to smash until every city across America is saved. Project H.A.M.M.E.R. is being developed by NST and will be available at launch for the Wii. Check out some artwork and the game's logo below. Images: Project H.A.M.M.E.R. Artwork Project H.A.M.M.E.R. Logo Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 17:05 PM [Top] Excite Truck Info and Screens [ Nintendo ] In the grand racing tradition of Excitebike, get ready for a big-air experience like no other as players rocket their trucks across dynamically changing terrain. Remember tilting your arms while playing Excitebike to try to make your character land a huge jump? Well, that experience is finally a reality with Excite Truck, a wild, off-road race only possible on Nintendo’s Wii console. Players hold the Wii Remote like an NES controller to control the truck. The 2 button is the accelerator, the 1 button is the brake, the Control Pad is the turbo … but that’s just the beginning. Tilt the Wii Remote right and left like a steering wheel to steer. Once the truck goes airborne, tilt the Wii Remote every which way to line up perfect landings for turbo boosts. Pick up items on the courses to make the terrain deform in real time, turning innocent bumps into massive launch pads that affect not only the player’s route, but that of his or her rivals. Players jump and bump their way to the highest score and highest finish. Excite Truck will be a launch title for the Wii. Check out some artwork of the game below. Images: Excite Truck Artwork 1 Excite Truck Artwork 2 Excite Truck Artwork 3 Excite Truck Logo Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 16:58 PM [Top] DS Continues to Set a New Course for Portable Gaming [ Nintendo ] For 18 months, hundreds of thousands of new players have joined together to disrupt the portable video game market. They proudly identify themselves as owners of Nintendo DS, Nintendo's remarkable hand-held system that continues to overturn traditional thinking. As the movement grows and becomes stronger, developers worldwide have taken notice. Both new and traditional players will be well-served in 2006, as more than 100 new games of all kinds hit the market for Nintendo DS. On June 11, Nintendo DS itself gets a makeover when Nintendo introduces the lighter, brighter Nintendo DS Lite in the Americas. The redesigned system features a more compact size and screens with four adjustable brightness levels. The Polar White system will sell as low as $129.99 at retailers nationwide. More than 100 games will be available for Nintendo DS this year alone from publishers worldwide. Some of the biggest fan favorites will come from Nintendo: * New Super Mario Bros., a new 2-D Super Mario game that anyone can enjoy. * The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass builds on the cel-shaded fun of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker with touch-screen controls and wireless competition. * Chibi-Robo: Park Patrol sends everyone's favorite robotic helper on a new mission in the great outdoors. * Elite Beat Agents brings the cult import hit Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan! to the Americas. * DK: King of Swing DS sends Donkey Kong on a swinging new adventure. * Hotel Dusk: Room 215 turns Nintendo DS into a film noir mystery. * Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team for the first time lets users play as a Pokémon, speaking and interacting with other characters in a world populated only by Pokémon. * Gamers also can anticipate creative new Nintendo DS games featuring Star Fox, Wario and Kirby, as well as a wild adventure set on Yoshi's Island. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 16:41 PM [Top] Disaster: Day of Crisis Info and Screens [ Nintendo ] Survive nature’s most devastating catastrophes in Disaster: Day of Crisis, a panic-inducing survival game for Wii. In a devastatingly short period of time, an unprecedented wave of natural disasters has pummeled the United States. On top of this inexplicable series of disasters, a rogue special forces unit has taken advantage of the chaos and seized a nuclear weapon. Only Ray, a former member of an elite rescue task force, has decided to take a stand. Cutting-edge physics and gripping visuals re-create the sheer terror of major catastrophes. Players race a car down a mountain to escape a roaring pyroclastic flow, dodge toppling buildings during a devastating earthquake and swim for their lives in a raging flood. No matter what happens, fight to survive. Developed by Monolith Studios, Disaster: Day of Crisis will be a launch title for the Wii. Check out the first screens of the game below. Images: Disaster: Day of Crisis Artwork 1 Disaster: Day of Crisis Artwork 2 Disaster: Day of Crisis Logo Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 16:40 PM [Top] Nintendo Introduces the Next Leap in Video Games [ Nintendo ] Today Nintendo unveils the next leap in gaming by demonstrating its upcoming Wii home console, which lets users manipulate action on their television screens through the precise, life-like motion of the Wii Remote. Continuing Nintendo's long tradition of developing highly innovative products that redefine the standards for the industry, Wii (pronounced "we") will allow players to "feel" games in a way never known before: the adrenaline of a tennis match, the thrill of making an airplane bank or the rush of gripping the wheel of a speeding truck. The control scheme is simple enough that everyone, no matter what their prior gaming experience, can use it with ease and will want to try it. "Not only is Wii compelling to current game players, but it also will entice new players with new experiences," explains Nintendo President Satoru Iwata. "To expand the total number of game players, we must make our experience both friendlier and more compelling. With Wii, it is." Iwata made his comments during Nintendo's annual media briefing in Los Angeles prior to the start of the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) global video game trade show. Thanks to Nintendo's leadership in innovation, Wii will challenge conventional thinking and will be a disruptive element in the video game industry. Wii will be available in the fourth quarter of 2006 and priced affordably for the mass market. It will feature a very quick startup, silent operation and low power consumption. These elements make the "sleepless" WiiConnect24 experience possible. Users never need to turn it off. The combination of the new interface, including the Wii Remote, the Virtual Console and WiiConnect24 (which takes advantage of the console’s low power consumption) represents a true leap forward in gaming. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 16:37 PM [Top] Wii Will Offer Unprecedented Video Game Experiences [ Nintendo ] "The Wii console gives every game developer a tool to create new experiences, not just linear advancement," said Reggie Fils-Aime, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of sales & marketing. "It will attract all kinds of new players, and thoroughly satisfy the hard-core gamers." One of Wii's launch titles will be Wii Sports, a new type of product designed to expand the video game experience to everyone, regardless of age, gender or gaming experience. These games will form the bridge that connects current gamers to newcomers. Wii Sports will include a tennis game that lets up to four players swing at, hear and feel the ball. Anyone can pick up the Wii Remote and start hitting straight shots and lobs, with top spin or a slice, using their forehand or backhand, simply by simulating the arm and wrist movements of a real tennis game. In the baseball game, players can hit or pitch a baseball using the Wii Remote as the characters on the screen mimic their movements. And in the golf game, players can drive the fairways or putt for the cup simply by swinging the Wii Remote as if they were swinging a real golf club. Games can be played with small, precise hand movements, but it's likely people will want to immerse themselves physically in the reality of the experience. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess also will launch at the same time as Wii. It will thrill gamers with its captivating storyline, stunning game play and gorgeous look. The game makes use of the unique Wii Remote and Nunchuk controller for elements like fishing and special sword attacks. Other Wii games in development include Metroid Prime 3: Corruption, which redefines how first-person shooters look and feel. Players use the Wii Remote as their pinpoint-accurate arm cannon, while the Nunchuk attachment can be used to deploy a variety of functions, such as the Grapple Beam. The amazing Super Mario Galaxy represents a crowning achievement for legendary Nintendo game designer Shigeru Miyamoto and his team. Mario floats from planet to planet while performing massive zero-gravity jumps in an environment new to gaming fans. Gamers also can expect ground-breaking offerings from Atari, Buena Vista Games, Eidos, Konami Digital Entertainment, Majesco, Mastiff, Midway Games, Namco Bandai Games, Atlus and SNK. Nintendo and publishers large and small worldwide will introduce original franchises of all kinds, aimed both at pleasing the hard-core crowd and encouraging new generations and demographics of people to play. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 16:35 PM [Top] Artwork, Because Wii Love Yuu [ Nintendo ] Here's a bunch of fun artwork from all of the games that we told you about earier. I'm not gonna take up room putting the game descriptions up again, read them in the other posts.` Images: ExciteTruck Artwork Metroid Prime 3: Corruption Artwork Disaster: Day of Crisis Artwork Super Mario Galaxy Artwork The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Wii Artwork Wario Ware: Smooth Moves Artwork Project H.A.M.M.E.R. Artwork Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 15:26 PM [Top] Initial Nintendo E3 Wii Media and Info, Part 2 [ Nintendo ] ExciteTruck: In the grand racing tradition of Excitebike, get ready for a big-air experience like no other as players rocket their trucks across dynamically changing terrain. Remember tilting your arms while playing Excitebike to try to make your character land a huge jump? Well, that experience is finally a reality with Excite Truck, a wild, off-road race only possible on Nintendo's Wii console. Tilt the Wii Remote right and left like a steering wheel to steer. Once the truck goes airborne, tilt the Wii Remote every which way to line up perfect landings for turbo boosts. Disaster: Day of Crisis: Survive nature's most devastating catastrophes in Disaster: Day of Crisis, a panic-inducing survival game for Wii. When a wave of natural disasters pummels the United States, a rogue special forces unit takes advantage of the chaos and seizes a nuclear weapon. Players race a car down a mountain to escape a roaring pyroclastic flow, dodge toppling buildings during a devastating earthquake and swim for their lives in a raging flood. No matter what happens, fight to survive. Wii Sports: In Tennis, you'll grab the controller like a racket and swing – the game will register forehands, backhands, volleys, lobs, slices, spin and power depending on how fast you swing and at what angle. Baseball will have you gripping the controller like a bat and swatting fastballs out of the park in a home run derby. In Golf, you'll step up to the tee, hold the controller like a golf club and swing naturally to smack the ball onto the green. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess: When an evil darkness enshrouds the land of Hyrule, a young farm boy named Link must awaken the hero - and the animal - within. When Link travels to the Twilight Realm, he transforms into a wolf and must scour the land with the help of a mysterious girl named Midna. Using the power and unique control of the Wii console, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess incredibly precise aiming control using the Wii Remote. The Wii Remote and the Nunchuk controller are used for a variety of game activities, including fishing and special sword attacks. Players ride into battle against troops of foul creatures using an amazing horseback combat system, then take on massive bosses that must be seen to be believed Images: ExciteTruck Screenshot ExciteTruck Logo Disaster: Day of Crisis Screenshot Disaster: Day of Crisis Logo Wii Sports Screenshot 1 Wii Sports Screenshot 2 Wii Sports Screenshot 3 Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Screenshot Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 15:02 PM [Top] Initial Nintendo E3 Wii Media and Info, Part 1 [ Nintendo ] Below is an assortments of screenshots and logos from various Wii games, incluidng peole showing how to play the games with the Wii controller). Plenty more to come. Info on the games is below: Super Mario Galaxy: The ultimate Nintendo hero is taking the ultimate step... out into space. Join Mario as he ushers in a new era of video games, defying gravity across all the planets in the galaxy. Mario takes advantage of all the unique aspects of the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controller, unleashing new moves as players shake the controller and even point at and drag items with the pointer. Players perform mind-bending, low-gravity jumps across wild alien terrain as they experience platforming for a new generation. Project: H.A.M.M.E.R.: Killer robots are attacking major cities across the United States, and the military is powerless to stop them. Players control one of Project H.A.M.M.E.R.'s cyborg prototypes: half-man, half-machine, with an extraordinary weapon - and the power to save the world. Equipped with a hammer of amazing strength, players represent the only hope against an unstoppable army of marauding automatons. Players use the Nunchuk controller in one hand to maneuver through a variety of vast and detailed environments and the Wii Remote in the other just like a real hammer to control the hero's weapon. Lift it into the air and bring it down to smash robots to smithereens. Metroid Prime 3 Corruption: If you think you knew what it felt like to be the bounty hunter behind the visor, think again. Take aim at evil with Nintendo's revolutionary controller. Players control Samus by moving with the Nunchuk controller and aiming with the pointer, allowing for a level of immersion unlike anything they have ever experienced. Through the eyes of Samus, players experience a quantum leap in first-person control as they wield the Wii Remote, the ultimate device for the first-person shooter genre. Samus will employ well-known power-ups like the Grapple Beam and Morph Ball, as well as a bunch of new surprises, to help her survive her coming trials. Saving the planets from Corruption isn't enough, though. Eventually, players must take down Samus' mortal enemy, Dark Samus. Wario Ware: Smooth Moves: The WarioWare team took an idea so wacky, it could only be made with the latest technology... the Wii Remote. With about 200 lightning-quick microgames and controls that range from scribbling to flailing, WarioWare: Smooth Moves takes interactive gaming to a whole new level. All players need is a Wii Remote and their best moves to be the champ. With games that are as much fun to play as they are to WATCH people play, WarioWare: Smooth Moves brings the party to its feet. It's hilarious for players and audiences alike. This is just a taste of what Nintendo is offering this year. Stay tuned for FULL media, including a metric ton of screenshots and info. Images: Super Mario Galaxy Screenshot 1 Super Mario Galaxy Logo Project H.A.M.M.E.R. Screenshot 1 Project H.A.M.M.E.R. Logo Metroid Prime 3 Corruption Screenshot Metroid Prime 3 Corruption Logo Wario Ware: Smooth Moves Screenshot Wario Ware: Smooth Moves Logo Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 14:53 PM [Top] Nintendo Press Conference Rundown [ GameCube Café ] Hey guys, the press briefing just ended, here are the major developments: -Nintendo showed off tons of new games from Nintendo for the Wii, including Super Mario Galaxy (Mario 128, FINALLY), Pilotwings, Metroid Prime 3 Corruption, Excitetruck, Project H.A.M.M.E.R., Disaster, a New Fire Emblem, as well as Wii Sports: a compilation featuring games like Tennis and Baseball. Also a version of Zelda: Twilight Princess will release at launch for Wii, as well as for GameCube. -Plus, tons of third-party titles were revealed, including Red Steel, Dragon Ball Z Budokai Tenkaichi 2, Rayman, Pangya Golf, Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles, Dragon Quest Swords, Spongebob Squarepants, Madden, One Piece, Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam, and Elebits. -For DS, games shown include Star Fox DS, Diddy Kong Racing, Mario Hoops, Yoshi's Island 2, Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam with real-time voice chat, Elite Beat Agents (US version of Ouendan), Mario Vs. Donkey Kong 2, Zelda: Phantom Hourglass, Pokémon Mysterious Dungeon, Final Fantasy III, and new Touch Generations games. Wii Details: The controller will have a speaker built-in, as well as motion-sensing for the nunchaku unit. It will also feature Nintendo Wii Connect 24, an online service that stays on even when the console is not, to download updates and other special features. Expect TONS more to come, including media. We apologize for the lack of stream and live blog due to circumstances beyond our control. Stay tuned! Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 9 2006 14:03 PM [Top] New Super Mario Bros. Trailer [ Nintendo ] Nintendo's latest edition of the Mario series will hit stores in merely a week, and we can hardly wait. Thus, Nintendo has given us yet another gameplay trailer for the game. You can access it by clicking the source link. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 8 2006 23:50 PM [Top] Sony Announces PS3 Release Date, Price, and Rips off Nintendo [ Sony ] Sony officially announced today at their E3 pressconference their launch plans for the Playstation 3. The system will be released on November 17th at two different price points. $499 will get you the system with a 20GB Hard Drive, while $599 will get you one with a 60GB Drive. Games revealed for the system included Ridge Racer 7, Tekken 6, Gran Turismo HD, and Final Fantasy XIII. However, that's not even the biggest news. In typical Sony fashion, the company has seen fit to basically blatantly copy Nintendo. The PS3's new controller, which is now looks quite similar to the Dual Shock of old rather than the bananarang of last year's E3, will have built in motion-sensing technology where gamers can tilt the controller to play the games. Sound familiar? Yup, the Wii controller has the exact same functionality. Way to be Sony. Well, now Sony has shown their hand. Tomorrow, it's Nintendo's turn. Tune into GCC tomorrow to check out all the news as it happens from Nintendo's Press Briefing, including anything new revealed on the Wii. Also, check out live as-they-happen newsposts, and a live stream for absolutely free. E3 has officially begun. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 8 2006 23:17 PM [Top] Yuji Naka Heads Up Prope [ IGN Wii ] Former Sonic Team head Yuji Naka will now be heading up an indepedent studio called Prope. The studio will begin operations on June 1. This seems to give far more support to the rumor of Naka starting his own studio and creating NiGHTS for Wii. We'll have more on all the announcements coming within the next couple of days. Joe McCollum -- Posted on Monday, May 8 2006 18:46 PM [Top] Final Fantasy Crystal Chronciles for DS Announced [ IGN DS ] In addition to Crystal Chronicles - The Crystal Bearers, Square-Enix has also announced Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles - Rings of Fate for the Nintendo DS. There has been no information on WiFi, but there will be multiplayer. It is also unknown if the game will hook up with the Wii title. Expect more soon. Joe McCollum -- Posted on Monday, May 8 2006 18:41 PM [Top] Dragons and Fantasy for Wii Launch [ IGN Wii ] In a surprising show of support, Square-Enix has announced that it is bringing two games to the Wii at launch. Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles - The Crystal Bearers and Dragon Quest Swords: The Masked Queen at the Tower of Mirrors. This also comes along with the announcement that there will be a DS version of Crystal Chronicles. Stay with us as breaking news happens and we get the first video and screens of these games. Joe McCollum -- Posted on Monday, May 8 2006 18:36 PM [Top] E3 2006 [ Home Brewed ] GameCube Café will provide gamers with the best Nintendo E3 press coverage on the show floor this week, complete with exclusive videos and a live stream of Nintendo's E3 press conference. Now, Eric gives you a full preview of the show so you know what to expect. Stay tuned, it's gonna be a hell of a week. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 8 2006 1:04 AM [Top] Wario Ware for Wii on the Way [ Time ] The latest issue of Time Magazine has been released, and in it reporter Lev Grossman goes hands on with Nintendo's latest console, the Wii, not to mention goes one-on-one with Nintendo's legendary Shigeru Miyamoto. He also got the chance to go hands on with three upcoming Wii games - one of them will be the Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, which, of course, will be a GameCube title, but will have Wii functionality. The other two games Grossman demoed are completely new, and never-before heard. The first one is unsurprising: there is a Wario Ware game on its way to the Wii. The game will feature a metric ton of new microgames, including ones where gamers can swat flys, balance brooms, driving cars, and dancing the hula. The other game Grossman played was a simple tennis demo, where he used the controller to swat the ball back and forth. No word on if this game would include any real-life players and/or Mario superstars, or if it was just a simple tech demo. I know it's becoming redundant, but E3 2006 has kicked into high gear. You better believe we'll have full coverage and hands on of all of these games when they are on the show floor, as GameCube Café's coverage of E3 kicks off live in LA in just one day. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 8 2006 0:36 AM [Top] Call of Duty 3 Confirmed for Wii Launch [ IGN Wii ] It's official: Call of Duty is coming to the Wii. Activision revealed today through IGN that the game is set to be released for all next-gen consoles - including the Wii. Here's Activision's company line on the game. "Through the eyes of four Allied soldiers, Call of Duty 3 brings players closer to the fury of combat as they fight through the Normandy Breakout, the harrowing offensive that liberated Paris and changed the fate of the world. Developed by Treyarch, Call of Duty 3 is the follow up to the #1 next-generation game and is scheduled for a 2006 release." Expect Call of Duty 3 to be a Wii launch title, as the shooter should be perfect with the utilizing of the system's controller. You better believe that we will have full coverage of this game at E3, including hands-on impressions and exclusive videos. 3 days to go! Eric Jones -- Posted on Saturday, May 6 2006 1:51 AM [Top] Atari Releases E3 2006 Lineup [ Atari ] Atari has revealed their lineup for E3 2006, and it includes two games that will be shown off for Nintendo consoles. Here they are below. Arthur and the Minimoys: Directly inspired by world famous film director and writer Luc Besson's upcoming animated film of the same name, the Arthur and the Minimoys game will follow the film's storyline and feature eye-popping graphics and technical innovations. The game allows players to relive the fantastic adventure of young Arthur and his two pals, princess Selenia and her brother Betameche, in their mission to save the Minimoys' world from destruction. Set to time with The Weinstein Company theatrical release of the movie in North America, The Nintendo DS game is being developed by Dreamon, and the Nintendo Game Boy Advance version by Mystic. Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2: Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 is the sequel to Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi, the top-selling DBZ game of 2005. Combining action, fighting and light role-playing game (RPG) elements, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 will send players into a rich story mode that spans the entire Dragon Ball, DBZ, and Dragon Ball GT series. The game takes the acrobatic and intense 3D flying and fighting dynamic made popular in last year's hit to a whole new level with over 100 playable characters, 15 vast and vibrant 3D destructible environments, and nine different game modes, including intense single and multiplayer battles. Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 is being developed by NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc. / Spike for the Nintendo Wii. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, May 5 2006 15:32 PM [Top] Handle Samus's Figure [ First 4 Figures ] In conjunction of the Metroid Prime: Hunter’s release for the Nintendo DS in Europe, First 4 Figures is extremely happy to announce a three-year licensing agreement with Nintendo for the rights to create collectibles based on the Metroid franchise. There are plans for single statues and VS dioramas. The first in the series of statues will be previewed at this year’s upcoming E3 on Nintendo’s stand with product anticipated to come to market the third quarter of 2006. They will be available in collectible and specialty stores worldwide and online retailers as well as directly at the First 4 Figures website. They will stand approximately 9 to 12 inches tall and will retail for $85 to $120 for single statues and $200 for high end VS dioramas. Current development plans include all of Samus's suits from the first two Prime games, as well as all of the bounty hunters from Metroid Prime Hunters. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, May 5 2006 15:27 PM [Top] Activision Outlines Wii Support, With 3 Launch Titles [ Activision ] Activision revealed in a conference call today that the company plans to release several titles this year among all consoles, including three titles for the Nintendo Wii. In fact, one Activision exec believed that gamers can expect more support for the Wii than there was for the GameCube, which is certainly surprising considering Activision was the GameCube's biggest 3rd party supporter. From previous knowledge, one of these games is a brand-new Tony Hawk game, Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam. The other two are certainly a mystery, but it wouldn't be a shock to see Call of Duty, Spider-Man, or another of Acti's licenses make the jump. The company also announced that numerous games are planned for 2007, including movie tie-in games for the upcoming films Spider-Man 3, Shrek 3, Transformers, and Bee Movie (also from Dreamworks animation), as well as more X-Men, Tony Hawk, and Call of Duty games. Expect a full rundown right here at the Café of everything Activision shows off at E3 2006. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, May 5 2006 15:12 PM [Top] Sega's E3 Lineup [ Sega ] Sega has announced their E3 lineup. Here's what they've got in store for Nintendo (or games that they haven't announced systems for): The Club (Working title) - Release: Summer 2007 (Unannounced systems) The Club is a loosely organised and highly illegal underground entity. The Club is a meeting ground for those seeking the ultimate in vicarious thrills, and those who want to watch them. You have been entered into the sport, and against the odds must fight for survival. Set in a variety of unusual and evocative locations scattered across the globe, you will be wielding high-powered weaponry in a bid to earn your escape. Your first task is to survive, but you must kill according to their rules - quickly, relentlessly and with style. Kill or be killed, stand still and you’re dead! Super Monkey Ball Adventure – Release: July 2006 (GameCube) Join Aiai and friends in a new game to bring harmony to the Monkey Ball Universe kingdoms in Super Monkey Ball Adventure. This is the first Super Monkey Ball title that offers a narrative-driven adventure in a dynamic world in which puzzles and quests are spread throughout. Classic Super Monkey Ball gameplay is bolstered by a chant system that grants new abilities to the Monkey Ball in addition to brand new multiplayer Party Games and puzzle levels built into the story line. Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz – Release: Wii Launch title Aiai and all his friends have rolled their way onto Nintendo’s new console, with a wide range of new puzzle levels and numerous exciting Party Games specifically designed to exploit the innovative Wii controller. For the first time in the Super Monkey Ball universe players will be able to jump using an upward flick motion with the Wii Controller. In addition, scores of Party Games – such as Whack-a-Mole or ring toss – have been creatively designed to take advantage of the Nintendo Wii controller. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Friday, May 5 2006 11:15 AM [Top] Eidos Announces Bionicle Heroes [ Eidos ] Eidos Interactive, one of the world’s leading publishers and developers of entertainment software, and TT Games, the makers of LEGO Star Wars, today confirms a new LEGO adventure in Bionicle Heroes, set for release in Autumn 2006 on Nintendo Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, and Nintendo GameCube. Bionicle Heroes brings to life the most powerful and exciting LEGO characters ever seen in one game, in an action-packed world of adventure and discovery. Take control of a young hero as he steps out of the real world and into the strange and dangerous universe of Bionicle. Only by mastering the powers and special abilities of the greatest Bionicle heroes will he be able to overcome the many challenges ahead. Bionicle Heroes will be available in autumn 2006. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 4 2006 20:40 PM [Top] THQ Announces E3 2006 Lineup [ THQ ] THQ has revealed their full list of games that will be shown at E3 2006. While the company did not reveal any additional games for the Wii, what was shown off is plenty of good stuff for Nintendo's other consoles. Here's the full list, with Nintendo titles in bold. Saints Row (Xbox 360) Frontlines: Fuel of War (Xbox 360, PS3, PC) The Sopranos (Xbox 360, PS2) WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007 (PS3, Xbox 360, PS2, PSP) MotoGP '06 (Xbox 360) GTR (Xbox 360) Cars (Xbox 360, Wii, PS2, Xbox, GameCube, GBA, PSP, PC, DS, Mac) SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature From the Krusty Krab (Wii, PS2, GameCube, GBA, PC, DS) Avatar: The Last Airbender - (Wii, PS2, GameCube, Xbox, GBA, DS, PSP, PC) Supreme Commander (PC) Company of Heroes (PC) Titan Quest (PC) Warhammer 40,000 Dawn of War - Dark Crusade (PC) Destroy All Humans! 2 (Xbox, PS2) Monster House (PS2, GameCube, GBA, DS) Bratz: Forever Diamondz (PS2, GameCube, PC, DS, GBA) Barnyard (PS2, GameCube, GBA, PC) Juiced: Eliminator (PSP) Alex Rider: Stormbreaker (DS, GBA) Expect loads more information on everything THQ shows off at E3 2006. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 4 2006 18:28 PM [Top] Electronic Arts Reveals E3 2006 Lineup [ Electronic Arts ] Electronic Arts has revealed their lineup of games for E3 2006, and surprisingly enough, Nintendo consoles aren't featured very often in the initial list. There are a few notables though, including Madden NFL '07, which will be shown off for the GameCube, DS, GBA, and, for the very first time, the Nintendo Wii. Also shown off will be Superman Returns, and it looks like, in contrast to initial reports, that game will not be coming to the GameCube or to the Wii. However, versions are being made for both the Nintendo DS and the GBA. That's all EA is talking about at the moment, but their surprisingly lean list makes me think something is up. Could a surprise be in the works from the king of 3rd parties? Stay tuned at E3 next week to find out. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 4 2006 17:49 PM [Top] First Activision Bond Game to be Bond 22 Tie-In? [ Variety ] According to Variety, the new deal between Sony/MGM and Activision to create James Bond games will begin next year with a tie-in to the 22nd Bond film, currently rumored for a late 2007 release. The article also claims that a major factor in the EA split from Bond was the cancellation of the Casino Royale game. "No game means no revenue, and, for the first year, the consumer products team was left high and dry," claimed an insider. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Thursday, May 4 2006 11:47 AM [Top] DS Lite Gets Date and Price [ Nintendo ] Millions of people around the world already enjoy playing Nintendo DS, and the system's future looks even brighter. On June 11, Nintendo DS Lite joins Nintendo's video game family when it launches in the Americas. The lighter, brighter version of the hot-selling Nintendo DS is expected to be priced as low as $129.99 at retailers throughout the United States. The inaugural color is an elegant Polar White with a raised DS logo on the cover. Nintendo DS Lite comes with a variety of distinctive changes that set it apart from the original - and from all other hand-held video game systems: * It's less than two-thirds the size of the original Nintendo DS and more than 20 percent lighter. * Its two bright screens can be adjusted to four levels to adapt to different lighting conditions and to extend battery power. * The microphone sits in the center of the unit, and the LED lights are clearly visible whether the unit is open or closed. * The stylus is 1 centimeter longer and 1 millimeter thicker than the stylus of the original, and slides into a side storage slot. * The Start and Select buttons were repositioned for easier access. * A removable cover keeps the Game Boy Advance cartridge slot clear from dust and debris when it's not in use. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Thursday, May 4 2006 11:37 AM [Top] Charlotte Spins Her Web on GBA and DS [ Sega ] Sega today announced Charlotte's Web, an enchanting video game under license from Nickelodeon & Viacom Consumer Products based on the upcoming feature film from Nickelodeon Movies/Walden Media/Paramount Pictures. Scheduled for release this Fall, the game will be available for the Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS. Playing as Wilbur the pig or Templeton the rat, gamers will be drawn into engaging tasks as they explore four fascinating worlds including Zuckerman's Barn, a Junkyard, the Countryside and the County Fair, each containing numerous challenging levels. Along the way, players will meet and interact with truly memorable characters from the movie including Charlotte, Wilbur's best friend and confidante, who requires aid in finding her missing spider hatchlings; and Gussy the goose, who needs help locating and hatching her goslings. The Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS versions are loaded with additional entertaining mini-games, such as Ring Toss and Bumper Cars, that are hidden throughout the multiple levels. The mini-games are designed for easy pick up and playability and will keep gamers coming back to the fascinating world of Charlotte's Web. The Nintendo DS version contains numerous extras that maximize the handheld's unique capabilities; including stylus support and wireless multiplayer for up to four players. An additional, unlockable mini-game, where gamers can play as Fern and care for Wilbur, is also waiting to be discovered! Developed by Backbone Entertainment, a division of Foundation 9 Entertainment, Charlotte's Web will bring to life one of the most beloved stories of all time. Check out the first screens of the DS version of the game below. Images: Charlotte's Web Screenshot 1 Charlotte's Web Screenshot 2 Charlotte's Web Screenshot 3 Charlotte's Web Screenshot 4 Charlotte's Web Screenshot 5 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 4 2006 3:31 AM [Top] Lego Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy Trailer [ Star Wars.com ] Filled with tongue-in-cheek humor, Lego Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy combines the classic story of Star Wars with the endless customization of LEGO to create a wholly unique gaming experience that puts an unexpectedly comic twist on the Star Wars universe. Following the epic storyline of the original Star Wars trilogy, players can even customize their own Star Wars characters by mixing and matching parts: it's your chance to play as Yodarth, See-Chewpio, or Princess Obi-Wan Kejawa. The game is slated for release on September 12 for all consoles, including the GameCube, GBA, and DS. Check out the first trailer for the game by clicking the source link, and then clicking the link at the starwars.com site. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, May 4 2006 0:28 AM [Top] Majesco Announces E3 2006 Lineup [ Majesco ] After some hardships over the past year, Majesco has reinvented themselves as a portable developer. It's no suprise then that they are giving a lot of love to the DS (and a little love to the PSP) this coming E3. Here's their full lineup, with Nintendo titles in bold. Guilty Gear Judgment (PSP) MechAssault: Phantom War (DS) Monster Bomber (DS) Cooking Mama (DS) We'll be sure to have a full look at Majesco's showing at E3 2006. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 3 2006 21:57 PM [Top] Crash Booms and Bangs on DS [ Vivendi ] Vivendi Games’ Sierra Entertainment has announced the development of Crash Boom Bang!, an exciting, humorous game that will allow players to roll the dice and dive into one of 40 action-oriented, outrageously funny, multiplayer mini-games, as they communicate with and bet against opponents through the never-before-seen “Touch Panel Communication” in-game feature. Developed by critically-acclaimed Japanese developer Dimps, Crash Boom Bang! will be available exclusively for the Nintendo DS system in October 2006. “Crash Boom Bang! will provide the hilarious antics and fun gameplay that Crash Bandicoot fans have come to love, with a brand-new twist,” said Cindy Cook, Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer for Vivendi Games. “Through the innovative Touch Panel Communication in-game feature that leverages the technology of the Nintendo DS, Crash Boom Bang! will also deliver a uniquely entertaining multiplayer experience unlike any other on the system.” In Crash Boom Bang!, Crash and his friends embark on a worldwide race in a quest for its multi-million dollar prize. With hidden intentions of finding an ancient lost city and the famed magical “Super Big Power Stone” that grants its user one wish, the race’s sponsor Viscount Devil plans on using the contestants to solve the mystery. The map of the race checkpoints is based on the Viscount’s ancient map, and the evil Dr. Neo Cortex, also an invitee to the race, has figured out the Viscount’s master plan and in his own relentless pursuit for world domination, sets out to steal the map and retrieve the legendary stone. It’s up to Crash and his friends to win the big race … and save the world! Crash Boom Bang! is scheduled to be available exclusively for Nintendo DS in October 2006. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 3 2006 21:53 PM [Top] Crave Announces E3 2006 Lineup [ Crave Entertainment ] Crave Entertainment has announced their list of games for E3 2006, and among them are a trio of titles for the Game Boy Advance. One of the games is the previously announced VeggieTales: LarryBoy and the Bad Apple, based on the popular Christian children's property. Also featured will be two games from Crave's new agreement with Cartoon Network, Camp Lazlo and Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends. We'll provide full coverage of all of Crave's showing at E3 2006. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 3 2006 21:51 PM [Top] James Bond Passed Around Like Sorority Skank [ Activision ] Today Activision has acquired the rights to James Bond for PC, handheld, and console games until 2014. Electronic Arts had owned the rights since 2002 but dwindling sales of their past two Bond games seemed to have made the publisher drop the franchise from its rotation. The deal gives Activision, "worldwide rights to create video games for all current and next-generation consoles, PC and handheld platforms" based on the superspy James Bond. We reported a little over a month ago that the Casino Royale game from EA had been dropped and now we know why. No one could possibly have speculated that something this huge was on the horizon. Activision gave no word if they would be creating a game for the upcoming movie or if they will keep Bond in third person or bring him back to first person. We will know for sure next week at E3, so stayed tuned to the Café. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, May 3 2006 17:44 PM [Top] Rayman Raving Rabbids for Wii Launch [ Ubisoft ] Add another title to the Wii list of launch games, Rayman Raving Rabbids. Ubisoft is charging the Montpellier, France studio with developing the game, led by Michael Ancel. Ancel is best known for his work on Beyond Good & Evil and Peter Jackson's King Kong. The Wii version will make use of the special controller. Key Features: Combat the Ultra-Crazed Evil Rabbits – Take control of Rayman and his knack for attack to help save his world from the raving rabbids. They are mischievous, insane and completely out of control. There are several types of rabbids each with its own mischievous characteristics. Master and Ride Creatures – Tame and control various creatures such as sharks, eagles, rhinos, spiders and angelfish. Rayman can master each animal’s unique capabilities to help in his battle against the devious rabbits. Dress to Impress – Customize and disguise Rayman. Go punk, pop, rock or hip hop to infiltrate the bunnies and foil their devious plans. Explore the Colorful Fantastic World of Rayman – Explore amazing free-roaming environments and beautiful epic landscapes that mix real and fantastical styles to create a visually stunning experience. Look for hands-on time and impressions of Rayman Raving Rabbids straight from E3. Images: Crazy Wii Rabbit First Rayman Raving Rabbids Wii Screenshot Joe McCollum -- Posted on Wednesday, May 3 2006 14:45 PM [Top] Ubisoft Reveals E3 2006 Lineup [ Ubisoft ] Ubisoft has now revealed their lineup for E3 2006. While their list is not platform-specific, it does feature several games already set for Nintendo platforms, including the highly-anticipated Wii-exclusive, Red Steel. Here's the list. Assassin’s Creed Brothers In Arms Hell’s Highway Dark Messiah of Might & Magic Enchanted Arms Game to be Unveiled from Ubisoft and Free Radical Open Season Rayman Raving Rabbids Red Steel Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell Double Agent Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Vegas We'll have full coverage of what promises to be a banner year for Ubisoft at E3 2006. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 3 2006 13:12 PM [Top] Midway Reveals E3 Lineup, Including 3 Wii Games [ Midway ] Midway has revealed their official lineup for E3 2006, and with it is some surprising support for Nintendo consoles - including three games for the Nintendo Wii. Here's the full list, with titles for Nintendo consoles in bold. John Woo Presents Stranglehold (PS3, Xbox 360, PC) Unreal Tournament 2007 (PS3, PC -- TBA) Blitz: The League (Xbox 360, PSP, Wii) Mortal Kombat: Armageddon (PS2, Xbox) Spy Hunter: Nowhere to Run (PS2, Xbox) The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar (PC) Rise & Fall: Civilizations at War (PC) Happy Feet (PS2, GCN, Wii, GBA, Nintendo DS, PC) The Ant Bully (PS2, GCN, GBA, PC, Wii) The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy (PS2, GCN, GBA) MLB Slugfest 2006 (PS2, Xbox) RUSH (PSP) Mortal Kombat: Unchained (PSP) NBA Ballers: Rebound (PSP) For those who don't want to read through all that, it looks like the arcade football title Blitz: The League, as well as versions of games based on the upcoming animated features Happy Feet and The Ant Bully will be making their way to the Wii. We'll have full hands-on impressions of Midway's showing at E3 2006. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 3 2006 12:52 PM [Top] SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters DS Screenshots [ SNK Playmore ] Hitting stores for the Nintendo DS later this year, SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters DS is a unique strategy card fighting game with RPG elements and baseball card trade-ability. Play as your favorite SNK character or play as your favorite CAPCOM character in this intense card fighting strategy game. Players can use strategic card arrangements to win with overver 300 different cards to use, collect, and trade. Knowing your character and their special abilities will allow you to combine them for added value and strength. SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters DS will be released later this year, and will be shown off by SNK at E3 2006 next week. You can expect hands-on impressions of the game, as well as exclusive videos. Images: SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters DS Screenshot 1 SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters DS Screenshot 2 SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters DS Screenshot 3 SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters DS Screenshot 4 SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters DS Screenshot 5 SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters DS Screenshot 6 SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters DS Screenshot 7 SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters DS Screenshot 8 SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters DS Screenshot 9 SNK vs. Capcom: Card Fighters DS Screenshot 10 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 3 2006 3:19 AM [Top] New Metal Slug GBA Screenshots [ SNK Playmore ] Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Metal Slug franchise comes the original first version entitled “Super Vehicle” to the Game Boy Advance. Featuring non-stop action-packed 2D missions, gamers can command the Metal Slug super vehicle to gain a tactical advantage. The game also features classic over-the-top boss characters to challenge your skills, such as General Morden and his evil forces. There's also a huge array of weapons and the ability to rescue hostages and receive power-ups. Metal Slug for the Game Boy Advance will be released later this year and will be shown off next week at E3 2006. Expect full hands-on impressions and exclusive videos of the game then. Images: Metal Slug GBA Screenshot 1 Metal Slug GBA Screenshot 2 Metal Slug GBA Screenshot 3 Metal Slug GBA Screenshot 4 Metal Slug GBA Screenshot 5 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, May 3 2006 3:13 AM [Top] Namco Bandai Reveals E3 Lineup [ Namco Bandai ] This E3 will mark the first that Namco and Bandai will be showing off their products as a unified entity, but, unfortunately Nintendo products aren't on the menu. However, amazingly enough, there are three games on the list for the GameCube: One Piece Grand Adventure, Pac-Man World Rally, and Zatchbell!: Mamodo Fury will all be on the floor. We'll be sure to take a look at each, and also take a look at any of Namco's surprises at the show - some Wii titles, perhaps? Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 2 2006 22:10 PM [Top] Nintendo Adds New Player's Choice Titles [ Nintendo ] Nintendo has added some new titles to its Player's Choice library. Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door, Pikmin 2, Star Fox: Assault, and The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures are all now available for an MSRP of $19.99 in the US. So, if you've been hit by the current drought of Cube games as much as we have, you might do yourself a favor and pick up one of these great games. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, May 2 2006 19:03 PM [Top] Lara "Busts" on to the DS and GBA [ IGN DS ] If the GameCube getting Tomb Raider: Legend isn't amazing enough, Eidos has announced that there will also be a version of Legend on DS and GBA. "There are a host of new and exciting features for Lara on the Nintendo platforms. With the stunning graphics of the original games optimized to Nintendo's platforms, Legend will further extend the reach of the Lara universe," said Senior Brand Manager Kathryn Clements. Expect the games sometime this fall, with plenty of E3 coverage next week. Joe McCollum -- Posted on Tuesday, May 2 2006 16:23 PM [Top] SNK Officially Confirms Wii, DS Development [ SNK Playmore ] SNK Playmore announced today that the company will develop games for Nintendo's new home system,- Wii (formally code named Revolution) and for the Nintendo DS handheld system. To gamers worldwide, the Metal Slug franchise is known as one of the greatest action arcade series of all time. First introduced in 1996, Metal Slug and its sequels have achieved massive popularity with arcade gamers due to the series' highly detailed animations, impressive backdrops, and consistent sense of humor. This will be a full arcade collection including many additional surprises. "Fans worldwide have been looking forward to our return to Nintendo platforms and what better way then to bring our complete Metal Slug arcade collection to Wii. Additionally we enter the Nintendo DS category with our SNK Vs. Capcom Card Fighters DS game that will match the dual screen format to a great game" Expect a full rundown of what SNK offers next week at E3 2006. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 2 2006 13:02 PM [Top] Spongebob Wii Bound [ THQ ] Blitz Games, one of Europe’s leading independent videogame developers today announced that is developing SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab video game for Nintendo Wii and Nintendo GameCube for 2006 with leading publisher THQ. SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab – SpongeBob explores the peculiar world of Bikini Bottom as it transforms through a series of various unique visual styles. Continuing to reign as a top gaming and TV property, this new game offers fans brand new gameplay mechanics through nine visually bizarre levels. The game will be on show next week in Los Angeles at E3. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, May 2 2006 12:18 PM [Top] Prime Hunters Rumbles for Free [ Nintendo ] Nintendo is shaking things up this summer by offering a free Nintendo DS Rumble Pak with the purchase of Metroid Prime Hunters for Nintendo DS. The accessory fits into the Game Boy Advance cartridge slot and delivers good vibrations to immerse players even further in the smack-talking, morph-balling, Wi-Fi multi-playing Metroid action that Nintendo DS owners are raving about. Since its March 20 launch, Metroid Prime Hunters has impressed players with its beautiful graphics and deeply engaging game play. Six new bounty hunters, Wi-Fi multi-player action, voice chat and intergalactic rumblings in the palms of players’ hands make this a bold and distinct chapter in the epic franchise. Free Rumble Paks with Metroid Prime Hunters purchase are now available at select retailers for a limited time and while supplies last. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 2 2006 11:51 AM [Top] New Super Mario Bros. Trailer [ Nintendo ] Nintendo's official site for New Super Mario Bros., the upcoming Mario side-scroller for the Nintendo DS, has updated again with a brand-new gameplay trailer. This one shows off several of the new moves that Mario will be able to pull off in this game, including wall jumps, ground pounds, rope swings, and much, much more. Check out the new trailer by clicking the source link. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, May 2 2006 0:35 AM [Top] 2KGames Announces Release of Ghost Rider [ 2KGames ] 2K Games announced today that it will publish Ghost Rider, a new third person action title featuring Marvel Comics’ iconic motorcycle riding supernatural super hero, Ghost Rider. The game will be based on both the classic comic book series as well as Columbia Pictures/Marvel Studios’ star-studded big screen adaptation of Ghost Rider that is expected to blaze into theaters February 2007. The big-screen action-adventurer features Oscar-winner Nicolas Cage in the title role alongside Eva Mendes (Hitch) and Wes Bentley (American Beauty) as the villainous Blackheart Ghost Rider is being developed for console and handheld systems by Climax Group and is scheduled for simultaneous release with the movie. The Ghost Rider feature film follows superstar motorcycle stunt rider Johnny Blaze as he strikes a deal with the vile Mephistopheles for the most precious of commodities – his immortal soul. Now Johnny Blaze is forever destined to ride night after night as the host to the powerful supernatural entity known as the Ghost Rider. The video game continues the storyline, dropping players into the role of Blaze as he is transformed into a super hero with powers to avenge any evil he encounters. Featuring many of the characters and motorcycles from the comic book and movie, Ghost Rider will engage gamers in an immersive, supernatural third person world with a seamless blend of hand-to-hand combat and high-speed motorcycle action. “Ghost Rider is one of Marvel Comics’ most successful comic book franchises and we’re thrilled to bring this beloved series to a broader audience,” said Christoph Hartmann, Managing Director of 2K Games. “The video game will build upon the popular elements from the Ghost Rider franchise and intertwine its thrilling action and original, compelling content into a gaming experience fans will love.” 2KGames didn't specify specific platforms for the game, but the fact it is coming to handheld systems means it should at least come to the GBA or Nintendo DS. More as it develops, and you can expect it to develop at E3. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 1 2006 23:09 PM [Top] Nintendo Grabs Another Developer [ IGN Wii ] SNK is back, baby. Metal Slug fans rejoice, Metal Slug Anthology is coming to a Nintendo Wii near you. SNK has signed up to develop for the Wii, and Metal Slug Anthology will take full advantage of the Wii's controller. Metal Slug games 1-5 will appear in the collection, as well as Metal Slug X. No word on 6 at the moment, but IGN says it is quite likely. It's nice to see that SNK isn't just giving the Wii straight ports, but actually enhancing them for the system. SNK Playmore USA President Ben Herman commented, "Fans worldwide have been looking forward to our return to Nintendo platforms and what better way then to bring our complete Metal Slug arcade collection to Wii. The Wii controller will be used in a new and unique way that enhances the gameplay. Our fans have demanded that we support Nintendo platforms. Let the celebration begin." Joe McCollum -- Posted on Monday, May 1 2006 23:01 PM [Top] Wii Racer Revealed by Reggie? [ TriGames ] This past week, Nintendo of America Vice President of Sales and Marketing Reginald Fils-Aime was at the Nintendo World Store in New York City to answer questions and sign autographs. While at the event, the Regginator made sure to drop a huge hint about Nintendo's upcoming showing of games for the Nintendo Wii at E3. Says Reggie "I'm going to give one little secret...only one little secret, and hopefully I won't lose my job. We're going to show a racing game at E3 where you use the core controller in a very different way. That will answer all the questions to how you'll play a racing game." Well, there we have it. But will it be Mario Kart? F-Zero? Or perhaps something different entirely? E3 should answer all the questions, and you better believe we'll provide full coverage. One week to go... Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 1 2006 22:18 PM [Top] D3Publisher Brings Naruto Back to Cube and GBA [ D3Publisher ] North America has gone wild over Naruto - Believe it! Following the successful launch of Naruto: Clash of Ninja and Naruto: Ninja Council in March 2006, D3Publisher of America and TOMY Corporation will present Naruto: Clash of Ninja 2 for Nintendo GameCube and Naruto: Ninja Council 2 for Nintendo Game Boy Advance at this year's Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), taking place at the Los Angeles Convention Center from May 10-12, 2006. The latest video games follow the storyline of VIZ Media's hit anime series, and will feature more playable characters, new locations and added gameplay features including multiplayer modes for up to four players. "The critical and retail success of the NARUTO video games in North America are a testament to the global appeal of the franchise," said Alison Quirion, vice president of marketing, D3PA. "Naruto: Clash of Ninja 2 on GameCube and Naruto: Ninja Council 2 on Game Boy Advance will build upon the success of the first titles by offering a host of new playable characters, non-stop ninja annihilation with heated multi-player battles and challenging gameplay modes that are sure to please gamers of all ages." Naruto: Clash of Ninja 2, developed exclusively for Nintendo GameCube, will offer non-stop ninja style combat action for 1-4 players where gamers choose to play as one of 23 total available characters. All-new multi-player modes will engage players in frantic simultaneous four player battles and single-player modes will offer more gameplay choices than before with survival and timed attack modes that allow players to showcase their taijutsu and special jutsu abilities. Developed by 8ing, Naruto: Clash of Ninja 2 is anticipated for release in September 2006. The second Game Boy Advance title in the series, Naruto: Ninja Council 2 builds on the storyline of the first game and will allow players to switch between 3 unique characters on the fly to strategically conquer each challenging level. All-new multiplayer modes offer head-to-head action or cooperative play for up to four players. Developed by Aspect, Ninja Council 2 is anticipated to be released in Fall 2006. We'll be sure to have hands-on impressions and exclusive videos of both games when they are shown off at E3 2006. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 1 2006 14:00 PM [Top] Buena Vista Announces Spectrobes for DS [ Buena Vista Games ] Buena Vista Games, the interactive entertainment arm of The Walt Disney Company, today announced that it is creating and publishing the company's first video game based on an original property, Spectrobes. Set to release exclusively for the Nintendo DS, Spectrobes is an anime-inspired action/role playing game that is being developed by Jupiter Corporation in Kyoto. The announcement was made this morning from BVG's local offices in Tokyo. "Based on BVG's original concept and utilizing the creative style of Japanese anime, manga and traditional Japanese art, Spectrobes is an innovative game developed by the outstanding team at Jupiter," said Kentaro Hisai, producer at BVG Japan. "The game's intense real-time battle and unique excavation features should enthrall gamers throughout the world." Spectrobes introduces two junior Interplanetary Patrol officers named Rallen and Jeena who learn of strange, prehistoric creatures called Spectrobes that possess special powers. These fossilized Spectrobes hold the key to defeating a vicious and merciless force, known only as the Krawl that threatens to destroy the galaxy. The two heroes embark on a mission to save their galaxy - to do so they must excavate, awaken, train and collect all the Spectrobes they can and battle to defeat the Krawl. Spectrobes is infused with the edgy, highly stylized look and feel of Japanese anime and manga, and uniquely combines original characters, a compelling story and breakthrough gameplay. Spectrobes allows players to excavate, train and battle with nearly 500 unique creatures -- utilizing every interactive feature of the Nintendo DS. Once the creature is excavated using the touch screen portion of the Nintendo DS, the Spectrobe is then awakened and can be utilized in real-time battles with enemies. Players must collect, train and help their Spectrobes evolve in order to progress and succeed in the game. With highly customizable elements and powers, each Spectrobe is unique to individual game players. The release date for Spectrobes will be announced later. Expect a full look at this game, including exclusive videos and hands-on impressions, at E3 2006. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 1 2006 13:52 PM [Top] New X-Men: The Official Game Trailer [ GameCube Café ] Co-written by Zak Penn, the co-screenwriter of the movie X-Men: The Last Stand, and legendary comic book writer Chris Claremont, X-Men: The Official Game immerses players in an original storyline that provides the back-story for the upcoming X-Men: The Last Stand feature film. For the first time, the game enables players to truly command the powers of popular characters from the X-Men movie universe by allowing players to assume the roles of Wolverine, Nightcrawler and Iceman as they wield and upgrade their signature powers and maneuver through unique environments designed to showcase their superhero abilities. Assisted by other X-Men characters, players will use an advanced control scheme to master and control the characters as they unleash Wolverine’s combat rage, experience Nightcrawler’s acrobatics and teleportation powers, and glide through the air on Iceman’s ice slide. Check out a new trailer for the game below focusing on the third playable character in the game, Nightcrawler. X-Men: The Official Game will be released for the GameCube, GBA, and DS on May 16th. Video: X-Men: The Official Game "Nightcrawler" Trailer (12.5 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, May 1 2006 13:44 PM [Top]