Gamers have barely been able to savor the Wii version of EA's Rock Band for a week, and now news hits that the popular music game is set to have a sequel. The Associated Press reports that Rock Band 2 will hit stores this year, with new instruments available for a special edition bundle. However, those that spent their hard-earned money on the first Rock Band need not worry, as their instruments will work with the new game as well. Also, we can presume that the game will feature some sort of downloadable content on Wii, since Activision's Guitar Hero: On Tour will support the feature when it launches this year. However, the announcement does come with a bit of a surprise, as it is reported that Rock Band 2 will be a timed exclusive for the Xbox 360, on which it will launch in September, with the other versions "later in the year". For full details, we'll likely have to wait for E3.
NoWay Studios Unveils C.O.R.E. for DS [ NoWay Studios ]
NoWay Studio is pleased to unveil the first video footage from the forthcoming debut game entitled C.O.R.E. a dynamic fast paced action first-person shooter for Nintendo DS. The plot-line revolves around a meteor crash and its consequences. The footage is a mixture of the game intro movie and in-game footage.
For the last 14 months, the team have been stiriving to push the limits of the Nintendo DS with full 3D visuals. This “next generation” title is set to bring th e gaming experience of the FPS on a handheld - previously only matched on a PC. They have created multiplatfom levels introduced by in-game movies, some of which will be presented in 3d.
As a marine, you are sent with a secret mission into the lab complex built on the meteor crash site. You will travel through different locations - first on the ground, then deeper underground (security rooms, living sectors, offices, labs, stock rooms, headquarters), then even deeper into the meteor rock. Your aim: to discover mysteries about the meteor by solving quests. The final quest comes deep down underneath the earth, where the biggest secret is hidden. Only you can survive this task and protect mankind.
The game's trailer is available via YouTube below. Keep in mind, as you watch it, that this game is for the DS.
Magnetica Twist (Nintendo, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone-Comic Mischief, 1,000 Wii Points): The classic puzzle game Magnetica is now available on WiiWare, putting its own unique "twist" on the puzzle-game experience. You're surrounded by marbles, marching slowly but surely down a track. Use a launcher (piloted by a Mii of your choice) to shoot marbles with matching colors and wipe them out before they reach the end of the track. Control couldn't be simpler, as all you need to do is twist the Wii Remote controller to aim and press the A button to shoot. And the game play remains as addictive and deep as you've come to expect in Nintendo's puzzle games, with five varied play modes, advanced mechanics such as the ability to lob marbles, and a never-ending supply of combos. This definitely isn't your typical game of marbles.
Virtual Console
FATAL FURY 2 (NEOGEO, 1-2 players, Rated T for Teen-Animated Blood, Violence, 900 Wii Points): Released in 1992 by SNK, FATAL FURY 2 is the second installment in the renowned fighting-game series. In addition to Terry, Andy and Joe, who appeared in the original game, another five distinctive fighters gather from around the world to compete for the championship title. Also newly added are stage-specific hazards and the ability to perform desperation attacks when a character's strength is low. These particularly deadly techniques create the chance for a come-from-behind victory achieved with a single strike. Moreover, the innovative two-line battle, which proved popular in the previous version, also has been radically enhanced. Pressing the weak-attack and strong-attack buttons simultaneously enables players to move their fighters to another line themselves, or to launch an attack that pushes opponents back to another line. This game mechanic, unique to this title in the series, allows the player to take advantage of the depth of the screen and create even more exciting bouts. Can you prove yourself the king of fighters again?
Ignition Entertainment, in conjunction with SNK Playmore announced today that Metal Slug 7 for Nintendo DS will be released this fall.
Developed by SNK Playmore Corporation and published by Ignition Entertainment, Metal Slug 7 follows in the footsteps of its predecessors by continuing to deliver the high-energy and frantic, fast-paced 2-D shooting action that the franchise has always been widely renowned for.
Players will join Marco, Tarma, Eri, Fiolina, Clark and Ralph as they prepare to take on Modern's Forces across 7 new missions that will bring them from Garbage Island to the Fortress of Ruins and beyond. Aside from featuring 7 brand new and fully detailed missions and six playable characters, Metal Slug 7 will also feature a host of new weapons, colossal new bosses, new Slugs to pilot and new gameplay modes for added replay value.
Japanese publisher Marvelous Interactive has officially announced Arc Rise Fantasia, a traditional RPG exclusively for Wii. Developed by Image Epoch, the game features turn-based combat with a party of three characters, each with a shared AP gauge that depletes as attacks are performed. Also, characters will be able to perform team-up attacks, which greatly deplete AP.
That's about all we know about the game, as it has not been set for a release date as of yet. For more, check out the official website by clicking the source link.
For any girl who has ever dreamed of being a star, EA brings future stars one step closer today with the announcement of Boogie SuperStar. Combining the hottest music hits from around the world with the coolest dance moves and total character customisation, Boogie SuperStar provides girls the ultimate gaming experience: to sing and dance their way to superstardom! Exclusively for the Wii, Boogie SuperStar will be available in North America and Europe October 2008, and in Asia in the following months.
Boogie SuperStar features more than 40 songs made famous by popular artists such as Rihanna, Fergie, Katy Perry, Maroon 5, Leona Lewis, Alicia Keys, Good Charlotte, Britney Spears, Kanye West, and more. Another 30 songs will be available on International versions of the game, allowing players to perform songs from local artists including Melissa M (France), Monrose (Germany), Finley (Italy) and Fito y Fitipaldis (Spain). The star power behind Boogie SuperStar doesn’t stop there. EA will soon reveal the game’s featured artist—a chart-topping, global music sensation who will help promote Boogie SuperStar.
In Boogie SuperStar, players don't just play along, they are the star of the game. Girls will have a blast belting their favorite tunes into the microphone, and performing real dance moves that are captured on screen using the Wii's motion-sensing technology. The journey to stardom doesn’t have to be a solo! With two- and four-player modes, girls can play with their friends sing and dance with their friends or against them in fun competitions that show-off their singing and dancing talent!
Electronic Arts has unveiled new game details and the unique line-look for its “EA SPORTS All-Play” products shipping this summer and fall for the Wii. Designed for social play and featuring unique controls, distinct presentation and a style of play that is inviting to players of all skill levels, EA SPORTS will ship five “All-Play” games in 2008, including next month’s NCAA Football 09 All-Play. EA SPORTS will ship the following games, all with an MSRP of $49.99, this fall under the “All-Play” descriptor:
NCAA Football 09 All-Play
Release Date: July 15, 2008
NCAA Football 09 All-Play debuts on the Wii in July with stylized gameplay that is quick and easy for fans to jump in and out of great head-to-head action. The game features All-Play controls, a multiplayer social experience that allows novice users to compete against advanced players and still enjoy success. All-Play controls are designed for the more novice fans, but also feature a traditional default setting for the more seasoned veterans. NCAA Football 09 All-Play features nearly 200 schools, making it the most authentic college sports gaming experience available for the Wii.
Madden NFL 09 All-Play
Release Date: August 12, 2008
Madden NFL 09 All-Play features fun, approachable and innovative gameplay by unleashing the power of the Wii Remote through the all-new EA SPORTS Call Your Shots feature. Call Your Shots allows the player to create his or her own plays on the fly and direct receivers where they should run. Gamers of all skill levels can also enjoy an all-new fast paced 5-on-5 mode which has a reduced field length and big head NFL players. Experienced Madden players or rookies to the game can utilize the all-new play calling system. No matter the skill level, players can be competitive with three playbooks to choose from, ranging from Easy to Advanced.
Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 09 All-Play
Release Date: August 26, 2008
Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 09 All-Play features personalized coaching from Tiger Woods’ personal coach, Hank Haney and all types of gamers can pick up this game and have a fun and challenging experience. Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 09 All-Play features new graphics and user interface while also incorporating interactive and social mini-games. The standing swing control, the most “true to life” golf mechanic you can find in any videogame, truly takes advantage of the Wii console’s unique control scheme. The game will also feature online play for the first time with Simultaneous Online Play that allows up to four players the ability to play each hole at the same time.
NBA LIVE 09 All-Play
Release Date: October 7, 2008 (North America); October 14, 2008 (Worldwide)
Step onto the court and into the fun with a unique basketball experience designed exclusively for the Wii. NBA LIVE 09 All-Play offers more action, more often, with an over-the-top basketball experience designed with everyone in mind. Improved responsiveness and more control options make this game easier and more fun to play than ever before.
FIFA Soccer 09 All-Play
Release Date: October 14, 2008
Step onto the pitch and play a unique soccer experience exclusively for the Wii. Enjoy FIFA Soccer 09 All-Play one of two ways — a Wii-specific take on the classic ‘11 vs. 11’ simulation or over-the-top ‘8 vs. 8’ arcade action. Play with your Mii™ alongside your heroes Ronaldinho, Wayne Rooney and other soccer stars created as customized characters in an arcade version of the beautiful game. Steal the ball and make outrageous shots by simply waving your Wii Remote. You’ve never played soccer like this before! Plus, play Footii Party Games called Table Soccer and Boot It for more great fun with family and friends.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, June 26 2008 23:15 PM [Top]
Waner Bros. Sets a Guinness World Record...Game [ WB Interactive ]
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and TT Games are teaming up with Guinness World Records to bring Guinness World Records: The Videogame to Wii and Nintendo DS in fall 2008.
Guinness World Records: The Videogame, developed by TT Games and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, will offer players of all ages the opportunity not only to observe and marvel at the most remarkable activities in the world, but actually to participate in them. Guinness World Records: The Videogame is full of amazing world records, giving players the opportunity to become a real world record breaker! The game’s quick-fire action challenges can be played solo, in teams, or in competitive multi-player groups.
Accessible game mechanics enable anyone to grow the longest fingernails ever seen; to walk a tightrope across the Grand Canyon; or even eat a jumbo jet. But true skill and dedication will be required to compete at the highest level. The ultimate prize: you may see your name appear in the official Guinness World Records book!
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, June 26 2008 21:19 PM [Top]
Castlevania Wii Revealed...A 3D Fighter?!? [ Nintendo Power ]
The Castlevania franchise has always been one of the world's greatest platforming titles, with an effortless combination of action and horror. Konami's series has never strayed far from its action-platforming roots - that is, until now. The latest issue of Nintendo Power magazine reveals the first details on Castlevania Judgment, a 3D fighter being created exclusively for the Wii. The game will feature an all-star cast of Castlevania's greatest heroes and villains, including Simon Belmont, Alucard, Shanoa, Maria Renard, and of course, the legendary Dracula himself. The game will also feature equippable items taken from the series, including holy water, daggers, and magic attacks. The Nunchuk will control character movement, while the Wii Remote will be used for motion-controlled attacks. The game will also feature fully-destructable stages, as well as remixed versions of classic Castlevania tunes.
For more, check out the new issue of Nintendo Power. Expect much more on the game coming up at E3 08.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, June 26 2008 21:12 PM [Top]
Today Ubisoft announced Prince of Persia: The Fallen King, exclusively for the Nintendo DS system. Developed by Ubisoft’s Casablanca studio, Prince of Persia: The Fallen King complements the highly anticipated version of Prince of Persia coming out this holiday on consoles and PC. Expanding the saga with an independent storyline, Prince of Persia: the Fallen King utilizes the unique stylus controls of the Nintendo DS system to deliver the extraordinary acrobatic and combat action that fans have come to expect from the Prince of Persia franchise. Prince of Persia: The Fallen King will be available at retailers nationwide for the 2008 holiday season.
Facing imminent danger, the Prince flees to a deserted kingdom that seemingly offers sanctuary. Already touched by the evil Corruption, a dark substance that physically contaminates the land and the skies, the kingdom is filled with adventure, challenge and intrigue. As the Prince seeks a way to fight the spreading Corruption destroying the land, he encounters a partially infected creature that promises salvation. But is the creature truly an ally or merely an enemy in disguise? It seems this perilous alliance may be the only way for the Prince to face the forces of darkness and save the Persian kingdom from the Corruption once and for all.
• Unique visual style: Brand-new art design delivers incredible environments in over 50 maps. Explore deserted cities, dark labyrinths and forbidding jungles to battle the evil Corruption.
• Play as the all-new character: the Magus: Switch between the Prince and this mysterious new ally to fight, solve puzzles and utilize his magical powers to make your way through the corrupted land.
As if WiiWare could get any bigger, the latest issue of Nintendo Power has officially confirmed what could be the service's biggest game yet. After ten years of inactivity, Mega Man - the REAL Mega Man, will be returning to video games with Mega Man 9, the latest installment in one of gaming's premiere franchises. The game will have the graphics and styling of the original NES Mega Man games (1-6), as well as classic 8-bit music. The game will be controlled, as you might expect, by holding the Wii Remote on its side, just like an NES controller. The game will also feature the return of Dr. Wily as a villain, who frames Mega Man's creator, Dr. Light, for a series of robot attacks. Also, Rush, Mega Man's faithful mechanical canine, will make a return. And of course, the game will feature a rogue's gallery of eight new robot masters: Magma Man, Galaxy Man, Jewel Man, Concrete Man, Hornet Man, Plug Man, Tornado Man, and for the first time ever, a female robot master: Splash Woman.
For more on this huge announcement, check out the latest Nintendo Power, hitting shelves soon. We'll likely hear more about this enormous new game at E3 next month.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, June 26 2008 20:44 PM [Top]
Nintendo Announces, Dates New Games - Updated with Images [ Nintendo ]
While the game world awaits the E3 Media & Business Summit in Los Angeles next month, Nintendo isn't waiting to announce new titles for its mushrooming libraries for the Wii console and Nintendo DS. Classic Nintendo characters like bad-boy Wario and pink powerhouse Kirby will star in their own platform games. A new Mystery Case Files game brings the best-selling Big Fish Games franchise to Nintendo DS for the first time. These games join the recently announced Mario Super Sluggers baseball game for the Wii console.
Wario Land: Shake It!, a classic side-scroller for the Wii console launching Sept. 29, stars Wario, the smelly, bad-mannered alter ego of Mario. With the Wii Remote controller turned sideways like an old-school controller, veterans and newcomers alike can run, jump and smash their way through hectic side-scrolling stages. Players shake the Wii Remote to help Wario take down his enemies, empty bags of treasure or cause earthquakes. Best of all, there are numerous stages each offering multiple missions to keep players coming back again and again to unlock everything, collect more coins or just improve their best times.
Kirby Super Star Ultra for Nintendo DS, launching Sept. 29, re-imagines one of the most beloved Kirby games of all time. Kirby Super Star Ultra features new graphics and fully rendered animated cut scenes. With so many adventures waiting to be unlocked, there will never be a dull moment as Kirby runs, floats, copies enemies and uses Helpers to fight King Dedede and Meta Knight. New modes like Revenge of the King and Meta Knight Ultra await, along with classics like The Great Cave Offensive and Milky Way Wishes. On top of the main modes, there are also three new touch-screen-controlled mini-games that can be played with up to three friends via DS Download Play. Not only that, but players can go on Kirby adventures with a friend via local wireless as well.
Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir, launching Sept. 8, uses the unique Nintendo DS interface to expand upon the seek-and-solve game play of the popular series from Big Fish Games. Players seek out cleverly hidden items in a multitude of painted scenes. Players progress through an interactive detective story investigating a cast of characters and uncovering new evidence to find the rightful heir to a million-dollar fortune. This new portable installment is available only for Nintendo DS. With interactive logic puzzles that use both the touch-screen interface and built-in microphone and include the first ever multiplayer mode for a Mystery Case Files game, Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir presents a new generation of seek-and-solve games for casual gamers and franchise fans.
Mario Super Sluggers, launching Aug. 25 for the Wii console, stars the ever-lovable Mario and his crew of friends. It builds on the social-gaming fun and movements people learned in Wii Sports and turns them into a full-fledged baseball game that can be played by every member of the household. Players make a throwing motion with the Wii Remote controller to pitch the baseball and make a swinging motion to swing at the pitch. The game boasts more than 30 playable Nintendo characters and all the madness of a Mario sports game. Just like Mario Kart® Wii, it bridges the gap between experienced players and those new to the Wii console, with fun challenges and beautiful graphics.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, June 25 2008 14:30 PM [Top]
Call of Duty Becomes a World at War [ Activision ]
Leave your packs and bring extra ammo, Activision and Treyarch, announced today that they will be taking Call of Duty players deep into the South Pacific and European theaters this fall for Call of Duty: World at War, a gritty fight that will pit players against enemies that know no surrender and show no mercy. Utilizing the Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare engine, Call of Duty: World at War throws out the rulebook of war to transform WWII combat through a new enemy, new tactics and an uncensored experience of the climatic battles that gripped a generation. As U.S. Marines and Russian soldiers, players will employ new features like cooperative gameplay, and weapons such as the flamethrower in the most chaotic and cinematically intense experience to date.
Call of Duty: World at War introduces co-operative play, and Nintendo Wii will support a unique co-op mode for two players. For the first time ever players will experience harrowing single-player missions together for greater camaraderie and tactical execution. The co-op campaign allows players to rank up and unlock perks in competitive multiplayer by completing challenges and earning experience points, adding continuous re-playability and team-based gameplay. Whether playing competitively or cooperatively – if players are online with Call of Duty: World at War – they will always gain experience points. Based on a player’s experience rank and rank of the player’s friends, Call of Duty: World at War will scale dynamically to provide a deeper level of challenge.
Call of Duty: World at War is in development for the Nintendo Wii. The title is scheduled for release this fall and has not yet been rated.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Tuesday, June 24 2008 13:11 PM [Top]
Natsume announced today that Rune Factory 2: A Fantasy Harvest Moon will be released for the Nintendo DS later this fall. The company has also released the first screen shots of the game. The Rune Factory series is a unique blend of elements from the world of Harvest Moon and that of a fantasy RPG, offering Harvest Moon fans and traditional RPG players the best of both worlds.
Rune Factory 2 is set several years after the first game. The evil Sechs Empire has been defeated, and the Kingdom of Norad is once again at peace. Things may not stay that way for long, however, as dark premonitions foretell of dangers to come. It’s up to player to uncover the source of these premonitions and bring peace to the kingdom once more. Over the course of the story, players will build and develop a farm, befriend townspeople, raise monsters, take on quests, and find a wife. Rune Factory 2 offers innovative Touch Screen controls, easy-to-use menus, and an all-new compelling storyline.
In a first for the Rune Factory series, the story of Rune Factory 2 is multigenerational. Players begin the game as Kyle, a strange man who comes to Alvarna Village. Eventually, players will take on the role of Kyle’s child, opening up a whole new adventure. It’s an innovative feature that allows players to follow the story of their family and the townsfolk over two generations!
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Tuesday, June 24 2008 13:07 PM [Top]
One for WiiWare, Two for VC This Week [ Nintendo ]
WiiWare
Gyrostarr (High Voltage Software, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone-Mild Fantasy Violence, 700 Wii Points): Gyrostarr challenges you and up to three additional players to pilot your ships through a series of twisting, turning technoplasma tracks while battling a variety of deadly alien foes at ever-increasing speeds. While fighting and maneuvering, you must collect enough energy to activate the ancient warpgate at the end of each track. Succeed, and you can journey to the next, even deadlier track. Fail, and the gate will slam shut, destroying your ship. Enhance your ship with weapon pickups, coordinate attacks with your friends to fire powerful combined blasts and use your grapple to snag energy and pickups in the midst of combat. Control your ship with the Wii Remote controller, Nunchuk controller or Classic Controller, or use the "paired" control system that allows two players to use a connected Wii Remote and Nunchuk or Classic Controller at the same time. Offering 50 levels of intense action, powerful pickups, high-speed bonus levels and mayhem for up to four players, Gyrostarr is a killer arcade challenge.
Virtual Console
Alex Kidd in Miracle World (Sega Master System, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone-Comic Mischief, 500 Wii Points): In this platformer from the 1980s, you're Alex Kidd, looking for your lost brother Egle. In order to find your brother, you'll have to contend with the evil Janken the Great, who will send his henchmen and monsters at you to thwart your progress. One aspect of this adventure is that you'll have to play the classic game of "rock, paper, scissors" against the henchmen in order to defeat them. With 16 different levels to conquer in order to save Egle, this classic is sure to test your skills and your wits at the same time.
BURNING FIGHT (NEOGEO, 1-2 players, Rated E10 for Everyone 10 and Older-Mild Suggestive Themes, Violence, 900 Wii Points): Released in 1991 by SNK, BURNING FIGHT is a side-scrolling hand-to-hand-combat action game. In pursuit of Casterora, leader of a huge syndicate that has escaped from New York to Osaka, the protagonists are three detectives: Duke, Ryu and Billy. Each character fights using a combination of punches, kicks and jumps, plus his own particular special move, activated by simultaneously pressing the jump and attack buttons. These lethal techniques have enormous destructive force, but they also consume a great deal of energy. For this reason, players must use their special moves with skillful timing. Luckily for the detectives, new weapons and additional health can be found by breaking things like phone booths and street signs along the way. A boss, who must be defeated in order to continue the mission, awaits players at the end of each stage. You can also take on the gang with a friend, but beware-attacks by one player can damage the other, so keep an eye on where your partner is in the heat of the battle. End Casterora's reign of terror once and for all.
High Voltage Software today announced Gyrostarr, an exciting new sci-fi shooter scheduled for release via the WiiWare downloadable service on Monday June 23, 2008.
Gyrostarr features fast action gameplay across 50 intense levels as up to four players pilot ships on a futuristic track, shooting enemies, dodging obstacles, and collecting upgrades. The game takes advantage of the company’s proprietary Quantum 3 Game Engine technology, which provides advanced graphical capabilities. Gyrostarr’s controls were built from the ground up to utilize the motion-sensing capabilities of the Wii.
The latest computer animated film from Walt Disney Animation Studios, “Bolt” tells the story of a canine TV star that is inadvertently shipped from Hollywood to New York City, where he begins a cross-country adventure home and makes the surprising discovery that the super powers he thought he had don’t work in the real world. The Bolt video game, which is being developed by Avalanche Software, Disney’s Interactive Studios’ family games development studio, takes place in the world of the action-packed television show and offers the opportunity for Bolt and Penny to travel throughout five international locations, including Russia and Italy.
In the game, players take on the heroic personas of the TV star dog, Bolt, and his owner, Penny, from the high-action television series featured within the film. As Bolt, players can use his superpowers, including laser vision and his superbark, which sends out a sonic blast to devastate opponents, and as Penny, players utilize stealth, hacking skills and a wheelbar, inspired by her scooter seen in the movie, to outwit enemies.
The NDS version of the game will include competitive and co-op multiplayer, mini games as well as DGamer, Disney Interactive Studios’ innovative new technology that provides a fun, connected game community for Disney video game fans. With DGamer, players earn content, interact and chat with others on Nintendo DS through the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection or on a computer through the Disney.com website. The Nintendo DS game is being developed by Altron.
For super-dog Bolt (voice of John Travolta), every day is filled with adventure, danger and intrigue — at least until the cameras stop rolling. When the star of a hit TV show is accidentally shipped from his Hollywood soundstage to New York City, he begins his biggest adventure yet — a cross-country journey through the real world to get back to his owner and co-star, Penny (voice of Miley Cyrus). Armed only with the delusions that all his amazing feats and powers are real, and with the help of two unlikely traveling companions: a jaded, abandoned housecat named Mittens (voice of Susie Essman) and a TV-obsessed hamster in a plastic ball named Rhino, Bolt discovers he doesn’t need superpowers to be a hero.
Bolt is in development by Avalanche Software for DS and Wii and is currently scheduled for release in November 2008.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, June 19 2008 23:50 PM [Top]
Atlus Makes DS Master of the Monster Lair [ Atlus ]
Atlus today announced the dungeon-designing, monster-hunting RPG adventure Master of the Monster Lair for Nintendo DS. Dream it, design it, dig it… then explore it! In order to trap the freeloading monsters of South Arc, you must become the architect of a vast labyrinth, crafting intricate levels designed to lure and capture all manner of beasts. Level after level, every monster disposed of offers the promise of new weapons and items, allowing for more unique dungeon designs and more efficient means of ridding South Arc of the nasty baddies.
On September 2, shovel talks. You dig. Monsters die.
The quiet town of South Arc is about to have some monster trouble. Foul creatures with serious attitude problems have infested nearby forests and are now slowly moving into the village. The townsfolk, fearful for their safety, do not even dare to leave their homes. Calls for help have gone unanswered, likely because every other town in the Kingdom is similarly troubled.
As a young lad off in search of your calling, you stumble across a talking shovel. The verbose tool forcibly binds you to the task of digging a dungeon on the outskirts of South Arc, hoping to bait and trap the scrounging monsters. Looks like you found your calling, Master of the Monster Lair. Now start digging!
Check out the game's first trailer, via YouTube, below.
Video:
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, June 19 2008 23:21 PM [Top]
Majesco today announced Escape the Museum for Wii. Based on the popular online hunt and find game from Gogii Games, Escape the Museum is being developed by Majesco Studios and will be available in retail outlets this holiday for only $19.99.
In Escape the Museum, a devastating earthquake has rocked the foundations of the National Museum of History and players must help Susan Anderson, who was knocked unconscious by falling debris while searching the museum for survivors, escape from the crumbling building to the safety outside. Thwarted by doors blocked with rubble and tripped alarm systems, players wander through the museum’s maze of 12 different hunt and find areas and 25 action-packed adventure scenes, using the Wii Remote to uncover hidden exits and save priceless archaeological artifacts. Along the way, players will solve puzzles, consult a map and access hints to help them inch closer to freedom and a joyful reunion with Susan’s lost daughter, Caitlin.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, June 19 2008 18:49 PM [Top]
LucasArts today announced Star Wars: The Clone Wars will blast its way onto the Wii and Nintendo DS in Holiday 2008. Bringing an entirely new look and feel to the galaxy far, far away, Star Wars: The Clone Wars combines the cinematic qualities of the Star Wars movies with state-of-the-art computer-generated imagery from artists at Lucasfilm Animation.
Star Wars The Clone Wars: Lightsaber Duels, in development by Krome Studios exclusively for the Wii, delivers fun-filled Lightsaber battles for the entire family while it immerses players in the characters, locations, and epic duels from the all-new Star Wars animated TV series. Built from the ground-up for the Wii, Lightsaber Duels features an intuitive motion-controlled combat system that puts the Lightsaber weapon in your hand for non-stop fun.
Star Wars The Clone Wars: Jedi Alliance, developed exclusively for the Nintendo DS by the LucasArts Singapore team in conjunction with Lucasfilm Animation, lets gamers experience the awesome power when two Jedi join forces to fight as one. With an innovative stylus-based input, controlling the Jedi’s movement and engaging in Lightsaber combat has never felt more immersive.
The first official trailer for the game will debut on GameTrailers TV this Friday night at 1AM.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, June 19 2008 16:31 PM [Top]
There are many ways to catch a Pokémon, but for two special weekends in June, there's only one failsafe way for fans to get one of the most unique characters in the enthralling Pokémon universe on their Nintendo DS.
From June 20-22 and June 27-29, Pokémon players are invited to bring their Nintendo DS systems and Pokémon Diamond or Pokémon Pearl games to the nearest GameStop store where they can receive Deoxys, a legendary character with transformative powers and an impressive set of battle-ready moves.
With an imaginative roster of characters and richly interactive game play, the blockbuster Pokémon game series has attracted millions of fans worldwide. According to the independent NPD Group, Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl have sold more than 4.2 million combined in the United States alone, while Nintendo DS continues to be ranked as the nation's top-selling hand-held game system.
Puzzlers, Fishing, and Samurais on WiiWare/VC This Week [ Nintendo ]
WiiWare
Block Breaker Deluxe (Gameloft, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone-Mild Suggestive Themes, 800 Wii Points): Prepare for the frenzy of the coolest block-breaker game ever. Block Breaker Deluxe is a reinvention of the classic arcade brick-breaker game with a trendy graphical style, fun atmosphere and an exclusive multiplayer mode. Lively characters and amazing graphics provide distinctive settings of the jet-set nightlife, including a cool bar, dance club, casino and more. Special bricks, multiple bonuses, secret weapons, paddle size options and ball-speed variations make this fascinating game even more challenging. The Block Breaker Deluxe rage has arrived.
Cocoto Fishing Master (Neko Entertainment, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone, 700 Wii Points): Welcome to the adventures of Cocoto, Fishing Master. Get ready for a completely new experience on Wii. Play the role of Cocoto and travel the world to find five millennial fish. Only they can stop the magic cauldron from overflowing with lava and prevent the world from being destroyed. Thanks to Cocoto Fishing Master for Wii, fishing has never been such fun. Use the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers like a real fishing rod to catch more than 30 different fish. Discover five enchanted lakes in five different worlds from Cocoto's universe. Confront gigantic bosses to collect each fragment of the statuette that will allow you to wake the great god Geo from his slumber. Meet Cocoto's friends, sell your fish to Baggy and buy new fishing equipment from Neuro's shop.
Virtual Console
SAMURAI SHODOWN (NEOGEO, 1-2 players, Rated T for Teen-Animated Blood, Crude Humor, Violence, 900 Wii Points): This first entry in the extremely popular and revolutionary fighting-game series was released in 1993. Choose from 12 swordsmen with highly individualistic characteristics and fight furiously, ultimately confronting the evil Amakusa Shiro Tokisada. Each character wields his or her own specific weapon, but you must be careful not to lose it during the heat of battle. Some of the fighters also bring an animal companion into the fray, offering a unique aspect to the quick-paced action. Another significant feature of the game is the anger gauge, which indicates the level of anger felt by each of the combatants as they suffer repeated injuries. If the anger reaches its maximum level, the attacking ability of the character increases, leading to even more intense confrontations. Through it all, the refined camera system smoothly zooms in and out of the playing field, presenting the frenzy of the battle while showcasing the lively background (watch as the referee scores hits). Awaken the samurai spirit within and get ready for a new kind of fight.
SouthPeak Interactive announced today it will be co-publishing Igor The Game for the Wii and Nintendo DS. The game is based on the highly anticipated animated movie created by Exodus Film Group in cooperation with The Weinstein Company. MGM Studios is distributing the animated film in the United States, launching wide this September. Interactive Game Group (“I2G”) is financing and coordinating the game project on a worldwide basis. Co-published and developed by Legacy Interactive in the US, Igor lures players through Malaria, a world where mad scientists create dubious inventions to compete in the annual Evil Science Fair.
In the Wii version of the game, players have the ability to choose one of the main characters (Igor, Eva, Scamper or Brain) and play either simultaneously or cooperatively with up to four people. They’ll be challenged to play within locales from the film, fight enemies and achieve goals that advance them through the storyline.
The Nintendo DS version utilizes the stylus to perform movement combinations, combat enemies and solve puzzles. Players can custom build their own monsters to take on puzzle challenges and battle against other mad scientists.
Ignition Entertainment, a UTV Enterprise and worldwide publisher and developer of videogames, announced today that they have partnered with developer Success to bring Tornado to North America, exclusively for Nintendo DS.
Tornado lets players join forces with Toki and the other members of the Cosmic Cleaners as they set out to restore all of Earth’s buildings, vehicles, inhabitants and other obscure objects that have been stolen by the envious Prince using his mischievous “Black Hole Device.” Using a combination of stylus and microphone activated controls, players will travel across Planet 69 as they level up and max out their “Tornado Machines” to literally uproot everything in their paths in effort to take back what Prince has wrongfully stolen and return it to Earth.
Aside from featuring a fun-filled and action-packed Story Mode, Tornado also offers several other modes of gameplay including:
• Arcade Mode, where players can go back to levels that they have completed in Story Mode to wreak havoc and pickup item that were previously missed.
• Battle Mode, in which players can challenge a friend wirelessly and go head-to-head in a bout of mutual collecting.
• Bonus Mode, where players can view everything they’ve collected in Story and Arcade modes and listen to the soundtrack pieces they’ve collected.
Two Nintendo video games designed to appeal to both novice and expert gamers posted healthy numbers in the May sales charts, according to the independent NPD Group, which tracks sales of video game products in the United States. Mario Kart Wii and Wii Fit finished No. 2 and No. 3 for the month, demonstrating continued consumer response to new controls and experiences.
Other highlights from NPD's May U.S. sales report include:
* Wii (675,089 sold) and Nintendo DS (452,608 sold) again emerged as the two top-selling video game systems.
* Wii represented 63 percent of all current-generation consoles sold in May, while Nintendo DS had a 71 percent share of the portable market.
* Lifetime sales of Wii now stand at nearly 10.2 million.
* Lifetime sales of Nintendo DS are now at more than 20 million.
* Wii Play sold more than 295,000 in May, bringing its lifetime sales to more than 5.8 million.
* Of the top 30 best-selling games of May, 19 are made for Nintendo systems, including third-party hits like Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock from Activision, We Ski from Namco Bandai, Game Party from Midway and Boom Blox from Electronic Arts.
* Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Time and Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Darkness combined to sell more than 208,000 in May, with lifetime sales of more than 613,000.
XSEED Tells the Little King's Story This Winter [ XSEED Games ]
Marvelous Entertainment USA and XSEED Games jointly announced today that the second videogame title in their co-publishing partnership agreement will be the fantasy adventure RPG title formerly known as “Project O”, Little King’s Story. Designed and developed by some of the most respected names in the gaming industry, Little King’s Story will ship in the US market Winter of 2008, exclusively for Wii.
Little King’s Story begins with the story of young boy named Corobo. Shy, and without many friends, Corobo stumbles upon a mysterious, powerful crown while walking in the forest near his village. He soon discovers that the crown grants him the ability to charm any person, and make them follow his orders. Suddenly, Howzer, the bull-knight, appears, informing Corobo that he is now King of the village, and he must not take this responsibility lightly. Returning to his sleepy village, as a King instead of a shy little boy, Corobo begins a quest to turn his small hamlet into a noble, fantastic kingdom.
The storyline, visual look, and lyrical music of Little King’s Story, work in concert to transport players to an interactive, enchanting, fairy tale world. By combining gameplay elements from life-simulation, real-time strategy, and adventure genres, the many aspects of creating a vast kingdom come to life! As King, players will manage and involve their townspeople in the goals of creating this new territory; enlist them to dig for treasure, build new buildings and otherwise better their community. Of course, leadership is a two way street, so as King, players will try to conquer rival nations to create a single unified kingdom, as well as grant the requests of townspeople at whim. With the Wii Remote as a royal scepter, this Winter Little King’s Story allows players the chance to be the best king in the world!
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, June 12 2008 19:34 PM [Top]
New Balance Board Game from Trainer Jillian Michaels [ Majesco ]
Shed the extra weight while having fun! Majesco Entertainment Company, an innovative provider of video games for the mass market, is partnering with celebrity fitness trainer Jillian Michaels, the strength trainer and life coach on the popular television series “The Biggest Loser,” and Interactive Game Group to deliver the first Wii game that combines a celebrity fitness trainer and the motion-based Wii system and Wii Balance Board accessory-Jillian Michaels’ Fitness Ultimatum 2009. Integrating a tiered fitness regimen, expert advice and exercise techniques from the charismatic Jillian Michaels, the game delivers a focused workout that will help players reach their own personal fitness goals.
In Jillian Michaels’ Fitness Ultimatum 2009 players become new recruits in Jillian’s boot camp where they enroll in a unique training program composed of challenging fitness tests and an ever-changing series of workouts. Players choose their workout from four types-Weight Loss, Strength Training, Intervals and Hill Climb-and set the intensity to light, medium or hard for a duration between 10 and 60 minutes. By completing exciting Wii Remote and Wii Balance Board motion-based challenges that range from crossing monkeybars to climbing ladders and rowing, players can also unlock lifestyle and fitness video tips from Jillian. Players can even track their progress based on calories burned and workout intensity. In addition, a Competitive Party Mode lets two players race against each other through entertaining individual challenges or through the entire Physical Training course to earn the winning time.
Developed by 3G Studios, Jillian Michaels’ Fitness Ultimatum 2009 for Wii is expected to release this holiday season. For additional information about Majesco’s exciting line of products, please visit www.majescoentertainment.com.
DS Lite/Guitar Hero: On Tour Bundle Official [ Nintendo ]
Most musicians dream of one day reaching platinum success. A new Nintendo DS bundle lets aspiring axe shredders claim that coveted status right from day one. The new Silver/Black Nintendo DS branded with the Guitar Hero logo will be available exclusively as part of a limited-time bundle with Guitar Hero: On Tour. For the first time, this smash-hit franchise is playable on a portable video game system using the revolutionary Guitar Hero Guitar Grip peripheral and fully tapping into the distinctive abilities of the Nintendo DS hardware.
Available on June 22, 2008, at North American retailers nationwide, the bundle provides a cool combo package for grads about to head off to college as well as summertime, road-tripping rockers of all ages.
Using the revolutionary Guitar Hero Guitar Grip peripheral and a custom-designed Guitar Hero pick-stylus, Guitar Hero: On Tour leverages the unique abilities of Nintendo DS to bring a new dimension to hand-held gaming. Featuring a wide variety of music, including tracks from blink-182, No Doubt, Jet, Nirvana, Bloc Party and many others, players can rock out in career mode, join together in co-op or go head-to-head in a "Guitar Duel" using Battle Items unique to the DS platform.
Ok, so E3 sucks now, we know, but it's still a place where most of the major companies show off a lot of cool new stuff. Here's what we know so far for Nintendo systems (or unannounced systems), as brought to us by the ESA and E3 Business and Media Summit:
D3 Publisher
Bangai-O Spirits (DS)
Ben 10: Alien Force -- The Game (DS, PS2, PSP, Wii)
Naruto: Clash of The Ninja Revolution 2 (Wii)
Naruto: Path of the Ninja 2 (DS)
Puzzle Quest: Galactrix (DS, PC, X360)
Disney Interactive Studios
Spectrobes: Beyond The Portals (DS)
Electronic Arts
Skate It (Wii)
Midway Games
Game Party 2 (Wii)
TNA iMPACT! (PS2, PS3, Wii, X360)
Touchmaster 2 (DS)
Natsume
Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness (DS)
Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility (Wii)
SouthPeak Interactive
Big Bang Mini (DS)
Mister Slime (DS)
Ninjatown (DS)
2K Sports, the sports publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. today announced that the next iteration of the popular hockey franchise, NHL 2K9, will be coming to the Wii console from Nintendo this fall. As the first and only officially licensed NHL and NHLPA video game for Wii, NHL 2K9 will offer fans the fun opportunity to play like the pros using the Wii Remote controller as a hockey stick, and enjoy playing hockey in a wholly unique and entertaining experience like never before.
In celebration of NHL 2K9 for Wii, Nintendo’s most iconic video game character, Mario, will be walking down the red carpet during the 2008 NHL Awards tonight at the Elgin Theatre, 6:15 p.m. ET in Toronto. Fans in attendance will also have the special opportunity to meet and greet Mario and have their picture taken with him.
NHL 2K9, being developed by Visual Concepts, is not yet rated by the ESRB, and will be available this fall.
Okami Dev Jumps to Wii Exclusively? - UPDATED [ Ready at Dawn ]
Former major PSP backer Ready at Dawn studios (God of War: Chains of Olympus and Daxter) have put up an interesting note on their official site:
"With Chains of Olympus going Gold in Japan (やったー！！ビッチズ！), we’re now officially done with PSP development.
"So today we sent all our devkits back and seeing all these boxes ready to be picked up definitely marks the end of an era here at Ready At Dawn.
"Can’t wait to show you guys what we have in store…."
The developer, who is also known for the port of Okami to the Wii, has expressed interest in pursuing Wii development exclusively in the future, and this note that they've officially finished PSP development only goes to further that claim. We'll of course keep you posted on this story as more develops from this relatively small, but highly successful and respected, developer.
UPDATE - Looks like those hoping for Ready at Dawn to go Wii only will remain doing just that. According to an interview with Kombo (which you can read right here), the developer has not started on any Wii game development since the port of Okami. This doesn't mean Ready at Dawn will stop making games for Wii, it simply means that their next game won't be for the system. We'll have more as it breaks.
Pyroblazer is a futuristic combat racing game from Candella Systems Ltd and Eipix Entertainment.
Set amidst the awe-inspiring locations of New Apeiron, players get the opportunity to race through a multitude of environments using a wide selection of anti-gravity craft known as Blazers. In their quest for glory, players can blast their way through the scorched valleys of Gnosis, the deserted cities of Haedra or the densely populated Underdome of Evelads.
As the players fight their way through the championship, improved Blazers with better speed, handling and superior firepower become available. Players also have the ability to pick up weapon and ammo upgrades during the race, further enhancing their ability to land the killer blow.
In addition to the single player modes such as Quick Race and Championship, Pyroblazer will also offer players the ability to compete against each other in 6-player local and internet-based combat racing. Powered by Eipix’s proprietary Ultra Engine and Ageia’s PhysX middleware, the game offers racing and sci-fi fans an experience unlike any other in the genre.
IGN's gotten the first look at PyroBlazer running on the Wii, and considering the claim that the trailer is made entirely of in-game graphics, it looks pretty damn good. Think a strange mash-up of rail-shooter, racer, and roller coaster and you'll start to get the idea. Check out the trailer below.
High Voltage Software’s The Conduit is a stunning first-person action shooter that promises to provide some of the best visuals seen to date on Nintendo’s Wii gaming console.
Using their proprietary Quantum 3 Game Engine technology, the team at High Voltage Software is fusing fast and fluid gameplay with an advanced set of visuals intended to squarely establish the Wii as a true next-generation gaming platform. The first-person shooter boasts a competitive online multiplayer component and a thrilling single-player campaign. Advanced graphical features include dynamic environment mapping, interactive water with real-time reflection, and four-stage texture composition including gloss, diffuse, and bump mapping.
Featuring terrifying alien creatures, an advanced Artificial Intelligence System, and a rich, conspiracy-laden story, The Conduit has more than a pretty face. The Conduit’s control scheme was carefully designed from the ground up with the Wii in mind, as were each of the weapons in the extensive armory, providing gameplay not possible on other platforms. As Secret Service Agent Ford, you must learn to master each of these weapons as well as the special “All Seeing Eye” device to defeat enemies, solve puzzles, and unravel the game’s mysteries.
The game is still without a publisher officially, but the announcement of a release date lends credence to the theory that one has been found. We'll keep you posted on all the latest developments for one of the biggest upcoming games for the Wii.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, June 11 2008 12:34 PM [Top]
Monster Jam Crashes Into Wii and DS [ Activision ]
Activision announced today the upcoming release of Monster Jam: Urban Assault. The genre-defining monster truck action in the original hit Monster Jam has destroyed the stadium barriers and players will now be able to wreak havoc on city streets around the world. The game will be available on the Wii and Nintendo DS in fall 2008.
Taking Monster Jam monster trucks onto the streets and other urban settings and being rewarded for the scale of the damage and destruction is one of the new key features of Monster Jam: Urban Assault. Feel the crunch of twisting metal underneath as you drive legendary and world famous monster truck favorites like Grave Digger, Maximum Destruction, Monster Mutt, El Toro Loco, Captain’s Curse, and Blue Thunder, or select from newer stars on the Monster Jam tour like Stone Crusher, Backwards Bob and Spitfire Monster Truck. Your goal is to demolish every vehicle you see.
For purists, Monster Jam: Urban Assault will still offer stadium racing and stadium freestyle competitions with gameplay much improved over the original game. Mini games have also been added, including ones brand new to the franchise like Monster Jump, Truck Trickster, Skee Ball and Air Strike.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Tuesday, June 10 2008 15:07 PM [Top]
Gammick Entertainment and Enjoy Up present the new microsite of Little Red Riding Hood’s Zombie BBQ, along with new screenshots.
After finishing with a ferocious wolf, the story ended and the nightmare began. Little "Ready to Rock" Riding Hood and her friend Momotaro face the greatest threat that has ever besieged folk tales.
Go to Gammic Entertainment and discover why Granny has become a horrible green monster, why Pinoccio is now a blood thirsty cyborg, or how Prince Charming woke up Sleeping Beauty… along with her thirst for blood!
Can you save fairy tale land or will you let its creatures live an unhappily-ever-after-life? Check out screens, story details, and more at the game's official site.
UK gaming mag GamesTM has revealed the first official details on the latest Wii-bound installment in the most popular military shooter franchise on the planet, Call of Duty. Call of Duty 5, henceforth called Call of Duty 5: World at War, will, as rumored, be returning to the setting of World War II, as well as developer Treyarch, who previously produced Call of Duty 3. World at War, however, will be the first CoD game set in the Pacific Theater, which included such legendary battles at the Battle of Midway, the Battle of Okinawa, and of course, the infamous Japanese strike on Pearl Harbor that got the US into the war in the first place.
As far as new gameplay additions, Call of Duty 5 will be the first game in the series to feature co-op, likely both online and off. The Wii Zapper will be supported, and the magazine is reporting that Treyarch has been able to get the Call of Duty 4 engine running on Wii, making the game look almost as good as it's HD counterparts. Hopefully we'll have more details on one of 2008's most anticipated games as they become available.
Pokémon, Dig Dug, and a Japanese Import for WiiWare/VC [ Nintendo ]
WiiWare
My Pokémon Ranch (Nintendo, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone—Comic Mischief, 1,000 Wii Points): The Pokémon phenomenon debuts on WiiWare with My Pokémon Ranch, a game that lets you watch as Pokémon and Miis interact with each other for the first time. Enjoy the relaxing ranch life by viewing your ranch and its Pokémon, taking pictures and sending those pictures to your friends via the Wii Message Board. The more Pokémon and Miis you bring to your ranch, the more fun it becomes. My Pokémon Ranch can be linked with the Nintendo DS Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl Game Cards to deposit the Pokémon you’ve caught in these games in your ranch. You can deposit a maximum of 1,000 Pokémon from up to eight different game cards. Make your ranch livelier by playing with your friends and family.
Virtual Console
DIG DUG (NES, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone, 600 Wii Points): Become Dig Dug, the champion of love and justice, as you drill up, down, left and right, defeating any enemies in your path. Avoid the persistent Pooka and the deep-dwelling but whimsical Fygar as you defeat all the enemies in order to clear each stage. Defeat enemies by hitting them with the harpoon and pumping air into them, or by dropping rocks on them from above. Receive bonus points by getting the vegetables that appear in the middle of the stage. Receive high points for defeating deep-dwelling enemies or by defeating Fygars from the side with the harpoon. Pass through inflated enemies or defeat enemies in an adjacent passage for an even higher score. Lure multiple enemies and defeat them with a single rock from above in this thrilling action game.
BIO MIRACLE BOKUTTE UPA (NES, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone—Comic Mischief, 600 Wii Points): BIO MIRACLE BOKUTTE UPA is an action game released in 1988, but it was never available outside of Japan. Players take on the role of baby Upa, a prince of the Akuyo kingdom. Prince Upa must take on an adventure spanning seven different worlds in order to rescue the kingdom from the dangerous demon Zai. Upa must defeat the enemies he meets along the way by inflating them. Upa can then use these floating enemies to his advantage by bouncing off of or riding on top of them. The prince must also avoid deadly thorns and pits while keeping an eye out for helpful items such as milk (to restore health) and bells (for temporary invincibility) if he hopes to succeed. If you’re looking for a cute and solid platformer with a hero unlike those in most other games, then look no further than BIO MIRACLE BOKUTTE UPA.
First Tenchu IV Details and Trailer [ GoNintendo ]
Tenchu IV got a full blowout by Acquire Studios and From Software last night in Japan, and several details were revealed for the game. The main characters will be recurring heroes Rikimaru and Ayane, as the duo must saved a kidnapped princess. Considered by the developers to be the epitome of the Tenchu series, the stealth-action gameplay will feature new character designs and new stealth kill cutscenes. Players will be able to hide in various locations such as on ceilings, in water, and in the dark, and then hide bodies once they are killed. Players will have several new tools at their disposal, all controlled with motions on the Wii Remote and Nunchuk.
In addition, a US and European release has been announced for the game, with Ubisoft publishing. No word yet on when it will be released. Also, it was announced Acquire also plans to make Tenchu V and VI, but no platforms for those games were announced. Check out the trailer via YouTube below.
Activision Takes the Ferrari Challenge [ Activision ]
Activision announced today that it has signed a distribution deal with System 3 which will see the world's largest third-party publisher release the forthcoming Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli throughout North America. Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli will hit shelves late summer 2008 for Wii and Nintendo DS.
Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli is a visual powerhouse with a racing style that is fast and accessible, yet the feel is more "sim" than arcade. It includes over 15 international racing circuits along with multiple gameplay modes such as Ferrari Challenge Seasons, Time Trial, Quick Race, and Endurance. Racing can be taken online with up to 16 players in a variety of challenges including circuits, hill climbs, and more.
The game is still a ways off for North America, but Nintendo's Japanese office has just launched the first trailer for the hotly-anticipated new Mario baseball title, Mario Super Sluggers. The trailer below offers some insight on just how to use the Wii Remote controls, the new super plays, and some new items. Check out the trailer, via YouTube, below.
Sega's released a new trailer for their DS-exclusive RPG Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood. Not much gameplay to be found in the trailer, but it is overly dramatic and campy, even featuring the voice of the movie trailers voiceover guy (you know, the "In a world..." guy). The trailer is big, so you'll have to be patient and give it time to load. Here's Sega's description for the game:
Sonic and his friends band together to defeat a menacing new enemy in a distinctly new game that includes combat, skill, collectibles and puzzles, exclusively on the Nintendo DS. For Sonic's premier debut in the genre, leading RPG developer, BioWare (Mass Effect, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic) has created a slick blend of strategy and speed with fast-paced battles, character and party customization, and the ability to collect and trade items via DS wireless. Players will need to keep their wits about them at all times, as they will never know what will get them through the next challenge. With an engaging storyline, lightning fast attacks, high production values and impeccable visuals, Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood allows gamers to experience Sonic in a whole new way.
Famitsu has revealed that Natsume's DS-based fantasy spin-off to its popular Harvest Moon RPG series will be making an appearance on the Wii. Rune Factory Frontier will feature series star Laguna searching for a young girl, as well as a new island to cultivate and farm. The game will also have some sim elements, as Laguna can transform his single farm into a sprawling village with numerous inhabitants. Also, the game will be fully upgraded to take advantage of the Wii console, with 3D graphics and Wii Remote controls. The game will release in Japan this year, with a North American release likely to come soon. Check out the scans from the game below.
The latest issue of Famitsu magazine reveals that one of the most popular action franchises of all time is coming to Nintendo's newest console. Tenchu 4 will be made exclusively for the Wii console, and will make use of the system's motion controls for motion-sensitive knife and sword attacks. The game will be developed by Acquire, the series' original developer, as well as From Software, who previously worked on Tenchu Z for the Xbox 360. The game will be released in Japan on October 28th, and no US release has been announced.
D3Publisher today announced NARUTO: Clash of Ninja Revolution 2, a fighting game for Wii. As the first NARUTO Wii title designed specifically for the North American audience, Clash of Ninja Revolution 2 promises an impressive list of playable characters from the NARUTO universe, a polished and well-balanced fighting engine, and a deep, original storyline that expands upon episodes from VIZ Media's hit animated TV series NARUTO. NARUTO: Clash of Ninja Revolution 2 will support widescreen (16:9) and progressive scan at 480p when it hits stores this fall.
NARUTO: Clash of Ninja Revolution 2 will provide players with quality fighting game mechanics and a fast-paced gameplay experience on Wii. Set after Sasuke leaves the Leaf Village to gain more power from Orochimaru, the title offers a slew of playable characters, including those developed especially for the storyline. Clash of Ninja Revolution 2 features destructible stages and four-player multiplayer battles, along with gameplay modes and characters not yet seen on the Clash of Ninja series.
Video games publisher Lexicon Entertainment and talented Chinese games developer TF-H Co Ltd have announced a 2 year agreement which will see the two companies bring a number of new IP to Nintendo DS and Wii.
First on the horizon as part of this exciting partnership is the firms wholly owned IP ‘Matchman’ which will be released on Nintendo DS in Q1 2009 followed by Nintendo Wii in Q2.
‘Matchman’ is a side scrolling shooter involving extraordinary graphics, manipulation and creative features. The graphic style is consisted by black and white line drawing, and the script is based on a combination of some classical fairytales such as Grimm's and Anderson’s fairytales. In the script, there are many humorous factors. The black and white style will bring you the feel of an old school comic, which will attract audiences from different age groups.
One of the special features is the unconventional means to knock through some of scenario. In this case, you’re not going to kill bosses directly. For instance, conventionally you kill monsters by using weapons; but to kill an evil bird named “Baba Yaga”, you need to throw apples and feed it until its stomach bursts! Another feature is about manipulation. Within the game is a mode called Commuter, specially designed for people on public transport commuting to the office. These people can use a single hand to operate the console and the other to enjoy a soothing cuppa!
Capcom Announces Spyborgs Exclusively for Wii [ Capcom ]
Capcom Entertainment today announced Spyborgs, a new action game coming exclusively to the Wii. In Spyborgs, players take on the role of a diverse team of five bionic superspies in a fight to save the world from a group of dastardly villains. Wii gamers will be set to save the world when the game launches in 2009.
The first title developed by Bionic Games, a newly-formed development team comprised of former Insomniac Games and High Impact developers known for their work on hugely popular franchises Ratchet and Clank and Resistance: Fall of Man, Spyborgs is a unique action-adventure game set in a stylish world that resembles a Saturday morning cartoon. Engaging players in team-based challenges designed to utilize 2-player co-op play, Spyborgs takes the theme of “team” to a whole new level of fun. In Single-player mode the “team” theme continues as players jump from one member of the superspies’ team to the next, rapidly tackling different challenges designed around each character’s unique abilities. Fast, addictive gameplay, unique controls offered by the Wii Remote, and a storyline that refuses to take itself too seriously, Spyborgs will provide players with a dynamic and fresh gaming experience like no other.
Players jump between the identities of a team of five bionic superspies to combat a rogue squad of wacky, dysfunctional super villains. Each character has unique powers to match their super-spy skills, such as heavy firepower, martial arts, bladed weaponry, acrobatic skateboarding skills or pure robotic destruction. This cast of characters may make a misfit group individually, but by utilizing them as a team, the Spyborgs will have the power to save the world – if they don’t blow themselves up first! Spyborgs’ tongue-in-cheek action and compelling interactive cartoon theme keeps players engaged from the first episode to the last with one of the most fun and entertaining games to be developed for the Wii system.
Check out the debut trailer via our friends at GameTrailers, embedded below.
Capcom announced today a partnership to develop a new multi-platform puzzle adventure game, Neopets Puzzle Adventure (working title), for the Wii and Nintendo DS this holiday season. Based on the deep storylines of Neopets, Neopets Puzzle Adventure is a new puzzle game being developed by Capcom and Infinite Interactive, developers of Puzzle Quest.
Set to launch on the three systems this holiday season, Neopets Puzzle Adventure takes puzzle solving skills to new levels with a unique Neopets spin. Based on the classic board game, “Reversi”, Neopets Puzzle Adventure, is a robust and fully integrated Neopets experience as it includes 150 different quests across vast Neopian lands, a variety of the most popular customizable Neopets to choose from, and several fun mini-games to add depth and fun to the gameplay. As a bonus to Neopets fans, players will be able to earn codes throughout the game that connect back to the Neopets site by achieving certain goals throughout the DS or Wii game. These unique codes will allow players to unlock exclusive items back in their virtual world on neopets.com.
Neopets Puzzle Adventure is the only multi-platform puzzle adventure console game based on the popular virtual, global community. For the Neopets fan, Neopets Puzzle Adventure is a must-have game with its intuitive “pick up and play” game play pattern and new never-before-seen areas in the Neopets universe to explore. Neopets Puzzle Adventure will incorporate several different mini-games, 150 petpets, as well as more than 300 items to equip various Neopet characters, recipes, treasures, awards and more.
Protöthea (UbiSoft, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone-Fantasy Violence, 1,000 Wii Points): Protöthea is a top-down scrolling shooter game with free movement that puts players in complete control of a last-generation spaceship. The mission is to destroy the asteroid called Maqno 01 and finish with the plans of The Core. UbiSoft's Protöthea introduces new concepts to a beloved, classic game style while mixing genres and utilizing the full capabilities of the Wii console, from graphics to controls. Players of all ages and experience levels will enjoy taking command of their ship, blasting through four different worlds in 10 challenging missions. Use your weapons arsenal and the special bonus items to help you accomplish your mission, and don't forget to slow down time and take an edge over the enemy.
Toki Tori (Two Tribes, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone, 1,000 Wii Points): Toki Tori is his name, and collecting eggs is his game. In this puzzle/platform game, players use a variety of items such as the Telewarp, InstantRock and Slug Sucker. Clever use and combination of these items are needed to solve all the game's levels, of which there are more than 70. Levels range from easy to brain-teasingly hard, resulting in dozens of hours of puzzle play time. Toki Tori makes the most of what Wii has to offer. It uses the Wii Remote for a unique control scheme, which offers players a new and more relaxing play style. A second player can help you out by drawing hints while you are playing. The game even uses the Wii Message Board in a unique way.
Virtual Console
Ninja Combat (NEOGEO, 1-2 players, Rated E 10 for Everyone 10 and Older-Mild Suggestive Themes, Fantasy Violence, 900 Wii Points): Released in 1990, Ninja Combat is a side-scrolling combat-action game. Take control of the ninjas Joe (one player) and Hayabusa (two players), and enter into battle against a group of evil ninjas called the Kage Ichizoku. Make your way into their home fortress, Ninja Tower, which dominates a big city of the near future. Fight using normal attacks, jumps, special movements and ninja materials that deliver damaging blows to all enemies on the screen. In addition, you'll find weapons and items to aid you along the way. Even better, as you progress in the game, reliable allies such as Musashi, Kagerow and Gembu will emerge to fight alongside you, allowing you to choose a new character in each stage. Ninja Combat also supports simultaneous play with two players, so you can grab a friend and defeat the Kage Ichizoku together.
Rock Band 2 Confirmed [ 
