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Today's Special Archives: July 2006
News Archives Index
Nibris Talks Sadness [ Nibris ]
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Nibris has put out a press release detailing some aspects of Sadness, both detailing development and how the game will eventually play out.
-Due to the scale of the project, Nibris invited some recognized development teams to cooperate. FRONTLINE Studios Inc. will be responsible for programming – a team of 30 people with large experience in Nintendo platforms. Digital Amigos will take care for the visual side of the game; it is a company specialised in graphics of games (e.g. Painkiller) and movies.
-Many psychologists and creators of horrors were invited to the making of the game.
-So far all the names of alleged publishers which appear on the internet are nothing but rumours. For the time being, no screens or playable demos are going to be published. The publisher will decide about the time of visual presentation of the game.
-"Sadness is a novelty on the video games market. Both the story and the presentation of the game is going to be a surprise for a player. You must forgive us the fact that we present so scarce information about Sadness, but we hope that once you play it you will understand our circumspection. We do not want to spoil the fun," says Adam Artur Antolski, one of the scriptwriters.
-Titles like Eternal Darkness, Silent Hill, Resident Evil, Planetscape: Torment, ICO, Phantasmagoria all had some influence in the development of the game
-Currently presented artworks show a number of monsters from Slavic legends; however, Nibris says we might not encounter all of them in the game – everything will depend on the way of playing and choices of the player. Creatures like Werewolves seem to play a major role in the game.
-There will be no Menu. "We aim at completely intuitive behaviour of the player – just as in life. Every choice a player makes is essential – if you experience traumatic events in your life, they are in you all the time. The same is going to be with Sadness. We want the player feel he participates in events, not only a game." The game will also have a saving system which is going to be invisible for a player.
-Operations by Wii controller are going to be completely intuitive.
More info as it breaks on this highly anticipated and extremely enticing Wii game, which will, sadly, not be out until Q4 of 2007.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Monday, July 31 2006 19:27 PM
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It's Not a Cancellation, It's an Evolution [ ESA ]
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ESA has made an official statement regarding the changes to E3. Rumors ran wild yesterday that the event would be cancelled outright, but ESA's official statement clarifies that the event is just evolving to fit the needs of the industry. The event will be much more intimate now; focusing on targeted, personalized meetings and activities.
“The world of interactive entertainment has changed since E3Expo was created 12 years ago. At that time we were focused on establishing the industry and securing orders for the holiday season,” said Douglas Lowenstein, President of the ESA, the trade association representing U.S. computer and video game publishers and the owner of E3Expo. “Over the years, it has become clear that we need a more intimate program, including higher quality, more personal dialogue with the worldwide media, developers, retailers and other key industry audiences.”
The new E3Expo will take shape over the next several months. As currently envisioned, it will still take place in Los Angeles, described by ESA as a “great and supportive partner helping to build E3.” It will focus on press events and small meetings with media, retail, development, and other key sectors. While there will be opportunities for game demonstrations, E3Expo 2007 will not feature the large trade show environment of previous years.
“E3Expo remains an important event for the industry and we want to keep that sense of excitement and interest, ensuring that the human and financial resources crucial to its success can be deployed productively to create an exciting new format to meet the needs of the industry. The new event ensures that there will be an effective and more efficient way for companies to get information to media, consumers, and others,” said Lowenstein.
Additional information about the new E3 will be released within the next several months.
Matthew Silver
-- Posted on Monday, July 31 2006 15:30 PM
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You heard right, ladies and gentleman. Tomorrow it is expected that the ESA may divulge details about drastic changes to the scale and format of the biggest gaming show on the planet. Insider sources have stated that many E3 publishers and the ESA have discussed the show's future and plan to drastically shrink E3 and move it from its normal Los Angeles Convention Center venue. Rather than fill the space of the LACC, exhibitors may opt to fill a smaller place with meeting-space sized rooms to show off their stuff to attendees. These attendees would number more likely in the hundreds instead of the thousands. A supposed reason for the downsize is due to the large cost to companies to put together their stuff for the show and assign staff for their booths. However, some smaller companies rely on E3 for the exposure it brings and hotels bring in over $50 million each E3.
More details should be surfacing tomorrow. Let's hope E3 won't become a shell of its former self.
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Sunday, July 30 2006 14:47 PM
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First Image of Nintendo DS Headset Microphone [ GoNintendo ]
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Our friends at GoNintendo have discovered the first image of the upcoming headset microphone for the Nintendo DS, set to launch on September 14th in Japan. The microphone looks to continue the same sleek standard set by Nintendo's DS Lite, with a simple full ear design, as well as a boom mic. It also looks like it will make use of the rectangular port, found next to the headphone jack on the DS and DS Lite, for input. The microphone is already confirmed to work with the upcoming Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, but it is unknown if it will work with any other previous or upcoming DS games with voice chat capability (such as Metroid Prime Hunters or Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam). Either way, it should be well worth it when the microphone is released for a mere $9 in Japan. No US release has been announced as of yet. Check out the (small) image of the mic below.
Images:
Nintendo DS Headset Microphone
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Saturday, July 29 2006 1:14 AM
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Electronic Arts today announced that the popular video game franchise, The Sims 2, is going to the dogs—and for that matter, to the cats, guinea pigs and birds too! The company is releasing The Sims 2 Pets on current generation console systems, handheld platforms and as a PC expansion pack. The Sims 2 Pets will build on the celebrated The Sims 2 experience that allows players to create and control digital characters throughout their lives while determining the outcome of their relationships and choosing their destiny. Each version will feature customized content tailored to the platform.
The addition of a new friend is guaranteed to enrich the daily lives of your Sims! Not only will players have the opportunity to choose from a variety of existing breeds, and hot designer mixes, but they’ll also be able to personally design their new friend with the Create-a-Pet feature. The ability to customize gives fans the opportunity to create their ideal pet by choosing their body shape, unique markings, even their pet’s personalities! With so many different animals to choose from, there’s no telling what unpredictable experiences could occur!
Players will also be able to teach their pet new tricks, take them for a romp in the park, outfit them with new pet accessories and even give them a job! As in real life, your Sims’ pet will require care and training. A neglected cat with an urge to scratch might claw up your new couch if you aren’t careful, and leaving your dog unattended near a freshly planted flower bed probably isn’t wise!
The Sims 2 Pets will be released on October 17th for the GameCube, GBA, and Nintendo DS.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, July 27 2006 22:26 PM
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Splinter Cell: Double Agent Delayed Again [ Ubisoft ]
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Ubisoft has officially announced that Sam Fisher's latest adventure, Splinter Cell: Double Agent, will be remaining in the shadows a tad longer. Previously set to release in September, the game will now launch in October on an unspecified date. Ubisoft representatives stated that the move was strategic, in order to better position the game in the upcoming holiday wars. The game will release for the Xbox 360, Xbox, PS2, and GameCube. No Wii or DS version has been confirmed as of yet.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, July 27 2006 22:13 PM
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Star Fox Command Boxart and Screenshots [ Nintendo ]
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Star Fox returns to its roots with a blistering space shooter on the Nintendo DS.
-Lylat needs help. Players hop into their Arwing fighter and fight through a unique branching storyline of missions, all rendered in gorgeous 3-D.
-Star Fox Command 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 from around the world on Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.
Star Fox Command flies onto your DS on August 28, 2006.
Images:
Star Fox Command Boxart
Star Fox Command Screenshot 1
Star Fox Command Screenshot 2
Star Fox Command Screenshot 3
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Thursday, July 27 2006 14:00 PM
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Pokémon Ranger takes the Pokémon franchise for a brand new spin when for the first time, you can capture Pokémon with not a Pokéball, but the Nintendo DS touch screen! As you roam through the world and encounter wild Pokémon, simply draw circles around them with the stylus in order to capture them! These Pokémon will then battle for you in an array of combat situations.
Pokémon Ranger will be released for the Nintendo DS on October 30th.
Images:
Pokémon Ranger Logo
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, July 27 2006 13:57 PM
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Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team Screenshots [ Nintendo ]
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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 while randomly generated dungeons make every mission unique. Players form a rescue team with a Pokémon friend, accept various missions and try to help Pokémon in trouble. They go into many dungeons and strategically make their way through many floors. The layout of the dungeons is randomly generated, so they present a different challenge every time. Strategy and thinking are the keys to clearing the dungeons and completing the missions.
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Red Rescue Team launches for the Game Boy Advance on September 18th.
Images:
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
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, July 27 2006 13:52 PM
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Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team Screenshots [ Nintendo ]
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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 while randomly generated dungeons make every mission unique. Players form a rescue team with a Pokémon friend, accept various missions and try to help Pokémon in trouble. They go into many dungeons and strategically make their way through many floors. The layout of the dungeons is randomly generated, so they present a different challenge every time. Strategy and thinking are the keys to clearing the dungeons and completing the missions.
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team launches for the Nintendo DS on September 18th.
Images:
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team Screenshot 1
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team Screenshot 2
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team Screenshot 3
Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Blue Rescue Team Screenshot 4
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, July 27 2006 13:47 PM
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Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2 Boxart [ Nintendo ]
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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.
Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2: March of the Mini Marios marches into stores September 25, 2006.
Images:
Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2 Boxart
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Thursday, July 27 2006 13:46 PM
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Baten Kaitos Origins Boxart and Logo [ Nintendo ]
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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.
Baten Kaitos Origins flies to the GameCube on September 25th.
Images:
Baten Kaitos Origins Boxart
Baten Kaitos Origins Logo
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, July 27 2006 13:44 PM
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Mario Hoops 3-on-3 Boxart and Character Art [ Nintendo ]
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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.
Mario Hoops 3-on-3 gets its game on on September 11, 2006
Images:
Mario Hoops 3-on-3 Boxart
Mario Hoops Character Art 1
Mario Hoops Character Art 2
Mario Hoops Character Art 3
Mario Hoops Character Art 4
Mario Hoops Character Art 5
Mario Hoops Character Art 6
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Thursday, July 27 2006 13:41 PM
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Magical Starsign Boxart and Logo [ Nintendo ]
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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.
Magical Starsign comes to a dual screen near you on October 23, 2006.
Images:
Magical Starsign Boxart
Magical Starsign Logo
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Thursday, July 27 2006 13:36 PM
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Children of Mana Boxart and Logo [ Nintendo ]
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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 hits the DS on October 30, 2006.
Images:
Children of Mana Boxart
Children of Mana Logo
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Thursday, July 27 2006 13:32 PM
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All of us here at GameCube Cafe would like to wish our favorite southern staff member, Joe McCollum, a very happy and wonderful 19th birthday.
Joe has been with us at GCC for many years and has proven himself an essential asset to the organization. As one of our leading news men and an excellent editorial writer, we look forward to everything Joe brings with him to the table.
Just think, two more years until you can get totally crunk with us at E3...legally, that is. Stop on by the chat or the forums to wish Joe a good one.
Kevin McGinnis
-- Posted on Wednesday, July 26 2006 11:26 AM
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New Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Media [ Activision ]
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Marvel: Ultimate Alliance is an all-new action/RPG where players create their Marvel dream team from the largest roster of Super Heroes ever in an epic quest that will determine the fate of Earth and the Marvel universe. For decades, Earth’s Super Heroes have opposed evil in their own cities, and on their own terms. But now, Dr. Doom and a newly reformed Masters of Evil – the greatest collection of Super Villains ever assembled – have plans for world domination, and the heroes must band together to defeat them. Playing as some of the most revered Marvel characters, gamers will embark on a dangerous journey across exotic terrain and well-known comic book locations like Atlantis, the Shield Heli-Carrier and the Skrull home world in an attempt to defy the world’s most notorious Super Villains. Created by Raven Software, Marvel: Ultimate Alliance lets players control the most powerful Super Hero alliance the world has ever known.
Check out some new screenshots of the game below, as well as four new trailers you can download to your hard drive to view. Marvel: Ultimate Alliance will be released this fall for the Nintendo DS, and will also be a launch title for the Nintendo Wii.
Images:
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Screenshot 1
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Screenshot 2
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Screenshot 3
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Screenshot 4
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Screenshot 5
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Screenshot 6
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Screenshot 7
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Screenshot 8
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Screenshot 9
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Screenshot 10
Video:
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Trailer (20.7 MB)
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Human Torch Gameplay Clip (8.9 MB)
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Iceman Gameplay Clip (9.0 MB)
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance Invisible Woman Gameplay Clip (8.5 MB)
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Tuesday, July 25 2006 18:49 PM
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Spider-Man: Battle for New York Info & Screens [ Activision ]
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Spider-Man: Battle for New York allows gamers to take on the role of their favorite Super Hero, Spider-Man, and one of his famed nemeses, Green Goblin, in an original storyline which builds upon their legendary comic book rivalry. For the first time in a handheld Spider-Man game, players can personalize their gaming experiences by choosing what abilities and powers to upgrade and when, such as Spider-Man’s web maneuvers or Green Goblin’s fire attacks, as they progress through the game. Playing as both good and evil, gamers will experience levels packed with frenzied action, in-depth combat and a host of unique super moves as they embark on the ultimate quest to save New York City from almost certain disaster.
Spider-Man: Battle for New York will be released for the GBA and Nintendo DS this fall. Check out the first screens of both versions of the game below.
Images:
Spider-Man: Battle for New York (DS) Screenshot 1
Spider-Man: Battle for New York (DS) Screenshot 2
Spider-Man: Battle for New York (DS) Screenshot 3
Spider-Man: Battle for New York (DS) Screenshot 4
Spider-Man: Battle for New York (DS) Screenshot 5
Spider-Man: Battle for New York (GBA) Screenshot 1
Spider-Man: Battle for New York (GBA) Screenshot 2
Spider-Man: Battle for New York (GBA) Screenshot 3
Spider-Man: Battle for New York (GBA) Screenshot 4
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Tuesday, July 25 2006 14:17 PM
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Atlus Opens Deep Labyrinth Website [ Atlus ]
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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 becomes the first 3D first-person RPG for the Nintendo DS, taking full advantage of the DS's dual screens and Touch Screen. 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.
Atlus today announced that the official English website for Deep Labyrinth is now live. The website, which was designed and localized by the Japanese developers of Deep Labyrinth, can be found here.
Visitors to the Deep Labyrinth website will find descriptions of the game's storyline and major characters, biographies of scenario designer Masato Kato and musical composer Yasunori Mitsuda, dual-screen videos that demonstrate the game's real-time action, promotional videos, and an exclusive high-resolution wallpaper. The site also features three musical selections from Mitsuda's sweeping score.
Deep Labyrinth was developed in Japan by Interactive Brains and ships to North American retailers on August 8, 2006. Deep Labyrinth is rated E10 by the ESRB for Mild Language, Suggestive Themes, and Violence, and is exclusively available for the Nintendo DS.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Tuesday, July 25 2006 12:41 PM
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Nintendo Dates Several Q4 Products (Not Wii) [ Nintendo ]
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The fourth quarter of 2006 will herald a new era for Nintendo with the launch of its remarkable new Wii home video game system. But that's not what this news item is about! How could that be, you ask? Perhaps the secret to the launch information for Wii is somehow encoded in the text of this news item. You might want to pore over it for a few hours before staying up all night to debate phraseology and comma placement with your friends online. Or maybe it's all just a scam to get you to read the other games we have launching this fall. One of the two.
As the weather cools down, the Nintendo portable game offerings heat up. Final Fantasy V Advance makes its way to Game Boy Advance SP on Nov. 6. As series go, Final Fantasy is to video games what James Bond is to movies. Final Fantasy loyalists will enjoy an opportunity to debate which installment was best.
Nintendo DS owners are the big winners. Every week or so, another huge DS title hits, from the Touch Generations title Clubhouse Games to fan favorites like Elite Beat Agents and Yoshi's Island 2. Clearly a gamer's idea of paradise, here is Nintendo's upcoming DS lineup:
Oct. 9: Clubhouse Games
Oct. 16: Nintendogs (Dalmatian)
Oct. 23: Magical Starsign
Oct. 30: Pokémon Ranger
Oct. 30: Children of Mana
Nov. 6: Elite Beat Agents
Nov. 13: Yoshi's Island 2
Dec. 4: Custom Robo Arena
Dec. 4: Kirby Squeak Squad
And, for Nintendo GameCube owners, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess will be available for you this fall. An enhanced version also will be a launch title for Wii. That will all happen on … Oh look, we're out of space.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Tuesday, July 25 2006 12:31 PM
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Nintendo DS Reaches 21 Million Sold [ Nintendo ]
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Nintendo delivers on its promise to bring video gaming to the masses. In less than two years since its Nov. 21, 2004 launch, Nintendo has sold more than 21 million Nintendo DS systems worldwide. By comparison, Apple shipped one million of its ever-popular iPod music players in its first 19 months. The rate of Nintendo DS units being sold equates to 23 systems per minute – that's nearly one every two seconds – non-stop since launch.
"We're thrilled to be announcing this milestone today," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications, "especially since Nintendo DS was North America's top-selling video game system of any type in June. We attribute this success to Nintendo's overall strategy of offering something for everyone – from five-year-olds caring for their Nintendogs to 65-year-olds tuning their mental agility with Brain Age: Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day."
Nintendo recently launched the new version of its popular portable system, DS Lite, featuring a smaller profile and more brilliant display. Beyond appealing attributes such as dual screens, a touch screen, a microphone and seamless Wi-Fi play, DS popularity also is being propelled by a unique mix of software that appeals equally to mainstream players and those new to the category.
To satiate the video gaming palates of the 21 million Nintendo DS owners worldwide, Nintendo continues to increase its software offerings with Star Fox Command, Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2: March of the Minis, Clubhouse Games and more games launching in the months ahead. Nintendo DS and DS Lite owners currently enjoy more than 130 Nintendo DS software titles – and 880 Game Boy Advance software titles in single play mode – all playable on their portable DS systems.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Monday, July 24 2006 13:28 PM
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Earlier this year, it was revealed that Suda 51, producer of such games as Killer7 and Contact, was hard at work at a brand-new title exclusively for the Nintendo Wii. At E3, it was revealed that the game was entitled "Heroes" and would be developed in conjunction with Japanese developers Spike and Marvelous Interactive. Now, thanks to our friends at The Wiire, the first trailer for the game has been released, and while it doesn't show too much in terms of gameplay or how the Wii's controller will be utilized, the game looks downright gorgeous, among the best titles the Wii has seen so far. It uses a comic-esque cel-shaded style similar to Killer7, and looks to feature tons of violence, tons of action, and tons of crazy characters - once again, much like Killer7. Head on over to the Wiire by clicking the source link and checking out the trailer for yourself. Heroes should be released for the Wii sometime next year.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Saturday, July 22 2006 3:02 AM
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LucasArts Confirms Wii Development [ IGN Wii ]
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At a panel held earlier today at the San Diego Comic-Con, representatives from LucasArts all but confirmed they plan to make games for the Nintendo Wii. Representative Steve Sansweet fielded a question during the panel about the possibility of LucasArts making Wii games, stating simply that LucasArts was devoted to developing for all three next-gen consoles. He did note, however, on the odd resemblance between the Wii controller and a lightsaber, thus possibly hinting at a Star Wars lightsaber fighting game for Nintendo's unique console. More as it breaks.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Saturday, July 22 2006 2:02 AM
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Nintendo Offers Free Repairs for DS Hinge Cracks [ GameCube Café ]
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Earlier this week, gaming blog Kotaku reported that Nintendo was offering free repairs for gamers whose left hinge on the DS Lite had cracked. Although Nintendo states it is an uncommon problem ocurring in less than 0.02 percent of DS Lites (meaning that if it hasn't happened to you yet, it probably never will), we can now confirm that Nintendo is offering free repairs for those with the hinge crack. Simply call Nintendo's customer service at 1-800-255-3700, tell them about the crack, and they will send out a UPS shipping label. Send out the DS, and it should return in 8-12 business days good as new. Good to see Nintendo standing behind their products, as they always do.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Friday, July 21 2006 19:19 PM
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More Wii Secrets from Miyamoto [ IGN Wii ]
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It's Nintendo Dream's 10th anniversary, and to celebrate the magazine's birthday, Miyamoto has divulged some new Wii information.
-Miyamoto begins by stating that they want a console that would be a desirable household item, and that he feels at one point this was almost true, but they lost it when game machines lost their appeal as pure entertainment devices.
-After development staffers and American staffers saw the nunchuck device, they called it that, simply because it looked like one. The name stuck and that became the development code name. Nintendo investigated the copyright status of "nunchuck" and found it was free to use.
-Nunchuck technically refers to any peripheral attached to the Core Unit (the Wiimote) like the analogue expansion, and Zapper Style refers to any device that is attached to the Core Unit like the Zapper Gun.
-There was much discussion on whether to include a mic and speaker in the remote, and the speaker almost didn't make it in. After how staff saw it used with Zelda and upon the insistence of third parties, Nintendo kept the speaker.
-One game Miyamoto is working on is one where the controller calls out the name of a player and the single remote is passed around.
-Another idea is for the controller to give secret information to each player quietly when their turn comes.
-Miyamoto mentioned games like F-Zero may work better with the Classic Controller.
-Miyamoto is left handed and holds the remote and nunchuck backwards, and expects many kids may actually do this too (although it doesn't matter how it's done with practice).
-Lastly, Miyamoto mentions he is working on "a lot" of titles for Wii, heavily on Zelda and Super Mario Galaxy. He also mentions he is working on the product called the "Remote Pointer Demo" from E3.
Lots of good stuff here, look for Wii news to really start picking up in the coming days.
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Friday, July 21 2006 18:04 PM
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More Special Edition DS Lites for Japan [ IGN DS ]
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It's looking very much like, like with the GBA SP, the DS Lite is going to have about a million special versions made of it in its long tenure as Japan's premier handheld. IGN has revealed that Nintendo will release a special edition DS Lite to go along with the release of the first Winning Eleven soccer title for the system, World Soccer Winning Eleven DS. The special edition system will be released in a bundle with the game, and will launch on September 21st. No images were given of the new console.
Also, it appears another new DS Lite is on the way, this one featuring the likeness of the world's most famous Pokémon, Pikachu. However, this one is a limited edition that will only be made available to winners of a contest being put on by Nintendo's Pokémon Daisuki (that means "love") Fan Club. Only 150 lucky winners will walk away with a special white DS with four Pikachu faces (each with a different expression) on the top. You can see an image of the new DS at Japanese gaming site Watch Impress.
No word yet on if either of these special edition DS Lites will be hitting our shores.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Friday, July 21 2006 15:39 PM
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Animals Cross Over to Toys R Us [ Nintendo ]
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Hundreds of thousands of Animal Crossing: Wild World fans are encouraged to hurry down to their local Toys "R" Us store with their Nintendo DS to download exclusive virtual gifts which are not available anywhere else in North America. Toys "R" Us has designated July 23 through July 29 "Free Download Week," offering Animal Crossing: Wild World fans the opportunity to download six exclusive virtual gifts via DS Download Stations. The exclusive items will be available for one week only and are free to all fans.
Nintendo DS Download Stations at all Toys "R" Us stores nationwide will allow fans to download exclusive Mario-themed items: 1-up mushroom, star, fire bar, goal flag, question box and pipe. The items are sure to add character to any Animal Crossing player's house and, more importantly, make all of their "guests" wildly jealous of their mushroom-chic design skills.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Thursday, July 20 2006 21:56 PM
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Pink DS Lite Launch Proves Nintendo Owns Japan [ Famitsu ]
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It's been no secret that the Nintendo DS has become nothing short of a phenomenon in Japan, with the console's recent redesign as the Nintendo DS Lite, not to mention the smash-hit Touch Generations series aiding in the handheld's takeover of Nintendo's home nation. The system has been not only more than a match for Sony's PSP, but it has reached Famicom-like levels of cultural fame. Evidence of this can be seen in yesterday's launch of the Noble Pink color of the Nintendo DS Lite, where, like with previous launches, Japanese gamers lined up in droves to obtain the system's newest color. You can see photos of this event by clicking the source link to head over to Famitsu.com.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, July 20 2006 19:04 PM
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Spider-Man Swings Back to DS and GBA [ Activision ]
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Activision has officially announced a new Spider-Man game exclusive for Nintendo handhelds. Spider-Man: Battle for New York allows gamers to take on the role of their favorite Super Hero, Spider-Man, and one of his famed nemeses, Green Goblin, in an original storyline which builds upon their legendary comic book rivalry. For the first time in a handheld Spider-Man game, players can personalize their gaming experiences by choosing what abilities and powers to upgrade and when, as they progress through the game. Playing as both good and evil, gamers will experience levels packed with frenzied action, in-depth combat and a host of unique super moves as they embark on the ultimate quest to save New York City from almost certain disaster.
Spider-Man: Battle for New York will be released for both the Nintendo DS and GBA this fall. Expect more on the game when Activision shows it off this weekend at the San Diego Comic-Con.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, July 19 2006 22:21 PM
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Hawthorne Heights Headlines 2006 Nintendo Fusion Tour [ Nintendo ]
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Music lovers and video game fans will converge in venues across the country this fall, as the fourth annual Nintendo Fusion Tour gets underway. The tour, headlined by emo-rock band Hawthorne Heights and produced by Live Nation, will visit some 40 cities nationwide between Sept. 27 and Nov. 11. In addition to live music, each venue will showcase the hot-selling Nintendo DS Lite and provide a sneak peek of Nintendo's upcoming console, Wii.
"Video games are as important to the pop culture landscape as music," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "The Nintendo Fusion Tour has become a launching pad for the best in entertainment, from the hottest new bands to the best upcoming Nintendo products."
Hawthorne Heights will lead the bill, which also includes Relient K, Emery, Plain White T's and The Sleeping. Many of the band members grew up playing Nintendo games, and the Nintendo Fusion Tour brings their two passions together.
"Nintendo always picks great rock bands, and we are happy to follow in that tradition this year," says Hawthorne Heights singer JT Woodruff. "But mainly, I am an old-school video game nerd. I still have my NES with over 500 games. I love everything Mario, and I accept no substitute. Bring on Wii!"
For ticket availability, the latest tour information and news about the Nintendo Fusion Tour, visit the tour's official site. The site will be updated as complete details about this year's tour become available.
Images:
Hawthorne Heights Plays With Their Wiis
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, July 19 2006 0:37 AM
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THQ Acquires Incinerator Games [ IGN Wii ]
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THQ has acquired Incinerator Games. If they don't sound too familiar, it is made up of veterans from Twisted Metal, NFL Game Day, and MLB: The Show from Sony's 989 studios and Midnight Club from Rockstar. Incinerator is focusing on next-generation development is currently working on Disney/Pixar's Cars for the Wii and Xbox 360. Hopefully we'll see some more good stuff coming out of THQ in the future.
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Tuesday, July 18 2006 15:57 PM
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New Wii Secrets Revealed [ IGN Wii ]
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IGN Wii has uncovered some new information on the Wii's controller. Here's some of what we didn't know:
-The pointer accepts two AA batteries.
-The batteries will last for 30 hours if precision pointing is being used for aiming. If only the accelerometer is being used, then 60 hours. No word on things such as the Classic Controller.
-The pointer features 6 KB of "non-volatile memory." This is used perhaps for the speaker or to remember certain settings.
-The SYNCHRO button under the front Wii flap allows for synchronization with controllers.
-All the buttons on the pointer and nunchuck are digital.
-The sensor bar, about 20 centimeters, must be placed above or below the TV.
-The rumble motor in the pointer can be turned on or off. Developers can vary its degree of intensity, but the user cannot.
-LEDs on the pointer show the number of players and indicate battery life when the system turns on (100%, 75%, 50%, and so on).
-Developers are expected to get Classic Controllers in September.
Nintendo had no official comment on the IGN article other than the usual "No comment" answer. We'll have more as Wii secrets continue to come to light.
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Friday, July 14 2006 21:03 PM
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Treyarch to Develop Activision's First Bond Game [ Activision ]
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In a job description at Activision's official site, it has been revealed that Activision-owned developer Treyarch is in need of a Gameplay Designer for their "upcoming Bond title". This confirms that it will be Treyarch, who previously developed games like Ultimate Spider-Man, Call of Duty 2: Big Red One, and the upcoming Call of Duty 3, developing 007's first adventure with Activision. Due to the fact that the game is yet to be in development, it's highly doubtful that said Bond game will be based off of the 21st James Bond film, Casino Royale. This might confirm earlier reports that Activision's first Bond game would be based off of Bond 22, however, Activision might be going the EA route and making non-movie-based Bond games like 007: Nightfire and Goldeneye: Rogue Agent. Stay tuned as more as revealed on the latest James Bond videogame adventure.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Friday, July 14 2006 19:46 PM
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Yesterday we reported that the DS rocked the game industry's boxers in June. Today Nintendo released several numbers to back up that claim, including specific game sales figures and WiFi Connection numbers.
The Nintendo DS became America's top-selling video game system of any type in June, according to independent sales numbers just released by the NPD Group. The introduction of the new DS Lite version, featuring a smaller profile and more brilliant display, boosted total sales to nearly 600,000 units, almost double that for any other game device, and alone represented more than a third of total industry system purchases for the month.
New Super Mario Bros. was the industry's top-selling game for the second month in a row, with purchases of more than 450,000 units, while groundbreaking titles Brain Age: Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day and Big Brain Academy combined to sell nearly 350,000 units. In addition, the unique Nintendogs titles combined to sell more than 100,000 units, 10 months after their introduction.
Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, a wireless gaming network exclusive to Nintendo DS, also now has achieved participation by 1.7 million discreet users worldwide in just eight months, an adoption rate far higher than any other game-play network to date. There's currently a variety of Wi-Fi games to choose from including Metroid Prime Hunters, Tetris DS, Animal Crossing: Wild World and Mario Kart DS, with Star Fox Command DS, Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2: March of the Minis and Clubhouse Games launching in the months ahead.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Friday, July 14 2006 19:35 PM
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Nibris Gets a Publisher, Releases New Sadness Artwork [ Nibris ]
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Polish developer Nibris has garnered a lot of buzz since announcing two projects exclusive for Nintendo platforms: Sadness for the Nintendo Wii, and Raid Over the River for both the Nintendo Wii and Nintendo DS. Now, it appears they've garnered the attention of major gaming companies as well, as the developer has announced they have found "one of the biggest publishers" to release both titles. The developer promises more news about the still-unknown publisher, as well as new info about both Sadness and Raid Over the River by the end of next week. For now, check out a newly-released piece of artwork from Sadness, showing off Licho, one of the horrific enemies players will face in the game.
Images:
Sadness Artwork
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Friday, July 14 2006 16:12 PM
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Looks like Square-Enix couldn't resist making a game with Nintendo without having some of their own characters make appearances. The Japanese official site for Mario Hoops 3-on-3 for the Nintendo DS, developed by Square-Enix, reveals that several characters from Square's own Final Fantasy series will be playable characters in the game. Ninja, White Mage, Black Mage, Moogle, and Cactuar (known in Japan as Sabotender) will all be hitting the paint and throwing down with the best Nintendo has to offer, including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Donkey Kong, Yoshi, and many more. To see the Final Fantasy superstars for yourself, click the source link. Mario Hoops 3-on-3 gets slam-dunked into stores on September 11th.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Friday, July 14 2006 15:17 PM
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New Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork [ Nintendo ]
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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.
Check out some brand-new artwork for perhaps the most-anticipated game of 2006 below. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess will hit stores this fall for both the GameCube and as a launch title for the Nintendo Wii.
Images:
Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork 1
Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork 2
Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork 3
Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork 4
Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork 5
Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork 6
Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork 7
Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork 8
Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork 9
Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork 10
Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Artwork 11
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, July 13 2006 21:57 PM
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UbiSoft Drives Away with a Piece of Atari [ IGN Wii ]
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Poor Atari, plagued with so many problems, appears to be selling some of its assets. UbiSoft is buying the Driver series from Atari for $24 million, which includes game rights, assets, and technology rights. Although UbiSoft is not acquiring the studio itself, the 80 employees of Reflections Interactive, the studio that worked on the Driver series, will become UbiSoft employees.
"We are thrilled with this acquisition which will allow us to add a prestigious title to our catalog and to enter into the driving games segment, one of the most important segments in the gaming industry," said Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot. "With more than 14 million units sold throughout the world, Driver is one of the most successful brands in the history of video games. We look forward to leveraging the unique knowledge of the Ubisoft studios to ensure that Driver will be one of the leading brands of the next generation of consoles."
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Thursday, July 13 2006 21:54 PM
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According to Next-Gen.biz, as well as the official monthly sales data from independant analyst firm NPD, the Nintendo DS was the king of the month of June with a drastic increase in sales. Over the month, the combined sales of the Nintendo DS and the new Nintendo DS Lite were 593,000, handily beating out all other consoles, including the PS2 (312,000 sold), Xbox 360 (277,000 sold), and PSP (221,000 sold). In all, game and hardware sales were up 25% over May.
On the software side, several titles for the DS exceeded sales of 100,000, including the still-popular New Super Mario Bros., and surprisingly, Brain Age: Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day! and Big Brain Academy, two "non-games" released as part of Nintendo's Touch Generations series. This bodes extremely well for the future of said series in North America, which has already reached to amazing sales success in Japan.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, July 13 2006 21:04 PM
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The only installment in the long-running Final Fantasy series never released in the US finally comes stateside in October with the long-awaited release of Final Fantasy III for the Nintendo DS. Combining an overhauled 3D graphics engine, new job classes and features, the timeless RPG Final Fantasy gameplay, and an expansive storyline, Final Fantasy III promises to be the best RPG for the console, bar none. Check out a new gameplay trailer below by saving it to your hard drive.
Video:
Final Fantasy III Gameplay Trailer (14.1 MB)
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, July 13 2006 18:22 PM
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Electronic Arts today revealed six new games that are in development for the upcoming Wii from Nintendo. EA’s dedicated Wii development team is crafting six custom-designed titles including new releases from the Madden NFL, Need for Speed, Harry Potter, Tiger Woods PGA TOUR, SSX and The Godfather franchises. Each title will remain true to the hallmarks of its franchise but is being designed to maximize the power of the Wii hardware and take full advantage of the uniqueness and innovation of its one-of-a-kind controller.
The Wii version of Madden NFL will be demonstrated for a group of elite critics and industry media later today at EA’s Studio Showcase 2006. Additional titles currently under development will be announced in the coming months.
“Once we started to experiment with Madden on Wii, there was an explosion of innovation. Everyone in the studio is energized by the creative opportunity afforded by both the hardware and controller. By reaching into our catalogue, we are able to bring a fresh and distinctive experience to some of EA’s most popular franchises. Creatively, the game play possibilities are staggering and endless,” said John Schappert, Senior Vice President and General Manager, EA.
“Nintendo is excited to see the broad array of signature franchises that EA’s talented development teams are designing for Wii,” says Reggie Fils-Aime, president and COO, Nintendo of America Inc. “The combination of sensational games with Wii’s unique play control will thrill players and breathe new life into video games.”
Kevin McGinnis
-- Posted on Thursday, July 13 2006 15:39 PM
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Tons of New Pokémon Diamond & Pearl Info and Scans [ Famitsu ]
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The latest issue of Famitsu magazine includes a feature article on two of the biggest DS games to hit Japan this year: Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl. Much more information was revealed about the game in the latest issue of Famitsu, and our friends at Serebii.net were kind enough to translate it.
- The release date is confirmed to be September 28th 2006.
- The Legendary Pokémon in thee game 3 are called Diaruga (For Diamond) & Parukia (For Pearl) respectively - Diaruga is the Time-Ruling Pokémon, Parukia is the Space-Ruling Pokémon.
- Three New Pokémon, Cherimu, Pachirissu and Dorapion.
- Cherimu is a Grass Type Pokémon. Classification of Sakura Pokémon. It has a brand new ability called Flower Head which powers itself and any teammates up when Sunny Day is in effect. It has an attack called Trouble Seed. This attack changes the foe's ability to Insomnia temporarily.
- Pachirisu is an Electric Type Pokémon. Classification of Electric Squirrel Pokémon. It has either Run Away or Pick Up for it's abilities. It knows Thunderbolt.
- Dorapion is a Poison/Dark Type Pokémon. Classification of Changeable Scorpion Pokémon. It has either Battle Armor or a new ability called Snipe which increases the base value of an attack during critical hit. It knows Poison Fang. It has an attack called Cross Poison. This attack has a high chance of Critical Hitting and Poisoning.
- Tamanta is a Water/Flying Type Pokémon. It's Abilities are Swift Swim and Water Absorb.
- Perappu is now a Normal/Flying Type Pokémon. It's abilities are Keen Eye & a new Ability called Unstable Gait which allows for evasion to increase when confused.
- Lucario's second ability is called Humble Heart which increases Lucario's speed when flinched. Lucario has a new attack called Wave Guiding Bomb. It's a Fighting Type Attack. Lucario also knows Detect & Quick Attack.
- Munchlax has an attack called Nature Spurt which used the berry Munchlax may be holding to change the strength and type of an attack.
- Weavile has an attack called Freeze. This attack disables the hold item that the opponent has.
- Buizeru has an attack called Aqua Jet. This attack always hits first.
- Evil Team is Team Galaxy who are stealing Pokémon everywhere and tried to befriend the professor.
- Seperate rival other than the other gender. He is your childhood rival and although he is sometimes rash, he helps you along the way.
- Bottom of Pokémon Center is for WiFi features which utilise Friend Codes. Both Online Battling and Trading have been confirmed.
- Bottom Screen during battles confirmed for Menus.
- In Battle, the bag is organised as thus: HP/PP Recovery, Pokéballs, Status Recovery, Battle Use.
Also, you can check out all of the scans for the game below. Pokémon Diamond & Pearl should be coming to the US sometime in 2007.
Images:
Pokémon Diamond & Pearl Famitsu Scan 1
Pokémon Diamond & Pearl Famitsu Scan 2
Pokémon Diamond & Pearl Famitsu Scan 3
Pokémon Diamond & Pearl Famitsu Scan 4
Pokémon Diamond & Pearl Famitsu Scan 5
Pokémon Diamond & Pearl Famitsu Scan 6
Pokémon Diamond & Pearl Famitsu Scan 7
Pokémon Diamond & Pearl Famitsu Scan 8
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Thursday, July 13 2006 2:13 AM
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New Call of Duty 3 Wii Screens and Trailers [ Activision ]
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The follow-up to the #1 next-generation game, Call of Duty 3 delivers the intensity of being closer than ever to the fury of combat during the Normandy Breakout, the historic campaign that made the liberation of Paris possible and brought the Allies a step closer to Berlin. Through a seamless narrative that delivers the rush of unrelenting battle and breathtaking action, players assume the roles of four ordinary Allied soldiers—American, British, Canadian and Polish—and are thrust onto an authentic, living battlefield for an unprecedented variety of combat, with advanced high-definition graphics, detailed character animations and explosive on-screen action, delivering the most immersive and cinematically intense war experience ever.
Key Features:
-The Power of Next-Gen – Built from the ground-up for next-gen consoles, Call of Duty 3 brings the battle to life with advanced graphics, a new physics engine, a procedural environment and detailed ensemble animations that deliver the most cinematic war experience ever.
-Battle Actions – An all-new close-quarters battle mechanic allows players to fight hand-to-hand, improvise explosive devices, disarm traps and execute a host of other battlefield situations that require cunning and rapid reflexes to survive.
-Branching Mission Paths – Next-generation level design provides multiple attack routes that let players decide how to confront the enemy – flank an opponent, or hit him head-on. Each unique mission path requires special tactics, from sniping and demolition to all-out head-on clashes.
-Nowhere to Hide – Environmental physics allow players to destroy enemy soft cover hideouts, forcing foes out in the open. But be wary, opponents can eliminate your protective cover as well.
-Team-based Multiplayer with Vehicles – Combined arms and team-based combat provides unprecedented depth and variety by allowing up to 24-players to battle it out online with the option of single or split-screen Internet play. Gamers have the choice to play as infantry or commandeer multiple-occupancy vehicles, including tanks, jeeps, and motorcycles with side-cars, leading to unique mobile combat roles for all-out, multiplayer mayhem. Call of Duty 3 also offers soldier classes, each with class specific abilities, and a ranking system for truly diversified squad combat.
Call of Duty 3 launches for Wii, PS2, PS3, Xbox, and Xbox 360 this fall.
Images:
Call of Duty 3 Wii Screenshot 1
Call of Duty 3 Wii Screenshot 2
Video:
Tank Ride (8.07 MB)
Chuch Tower (6.39 MB)
Close Quarters (8.05 MB)
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Wednesday, July 12 2006 16:22 PM
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New DS Lite Variations for Japan [ IGN DS ]
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It's nice to know that some things will never cease to be, and one of those things is a megaton of colors for Nintendo systems in the Land of the Rising Sun. Nintendo has announced two new systems to be arriving soon: Jet Black and Final Fantasy III Crystal White. Jet Black, set to arrive on September 2nd at the standard 16,800 yen price, seems to be the same black model that was present at the European launch. The Final Fantasy III Crystal White version is the same as Japan's white, just with Final Fantasy III characters and logos on top. The FFIII DS Lite will be bundled with a copy of the game and some artwork. The bundle will run our Japanese friends 22,780 yen (~$197), the exact cost of combining the game and system.
Head on by IGN and check out the pictures.
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Wednesday, July 12 2006 13:10 PM
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Our relentless quest to learn all we can about the bunnies doesn’t stop for mere national holidays…oh no. Over this past 4th of July weekend while folks of the nation were firing up their BBQ’s and celebrating their independence, we were working diligently to collect and record very valuable data on the mischievous, insane and completely out of control rabbids! We were able to catch one of these crazy hares trying to infiltrate a local celebration and discovered one very interesting fact…bunnies cannot play with fireworks! Could a simple roman candle by the answer to saving civilization as we know it? What actually IS their favorite color smoke bomb? What we do know is that when it comes to your average bottle rocket war, these bunnies aren’t the brightest sparklers in the pack. So many questions remain… and we will continue to dig deep and uncover what these devious bunnies are really all about. Pay attention, maybe even keep a list. These facts may prove very useful to Rayman as he fights to save his world from these raving rabbids!
Check out the latest trailer for the newest Rayman game below. The title will launch this fall for all consoles, including the Nintendo Wii.
Video:
Rayman: Raving Rabbids Trailer (6.0 MB)
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, July 12 2006 1:59 AM
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Nintendo Shoots Down September Wii Rumors [ Nintendo ]
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Nintendo released a small statement today regarding the launch of the Wii:
Speculation regarding Wii's launch date and launch lineup has appeared recently in a variety of publications. Nintendo has not yet announced a date, but remains committed to launch the remarkable Wii console in the fourth quarter of 2006.
So, all of those rumors we've heard about a possible September launch have been all but dispelled, as September is in the third quarter. The fourth quarter is October-December, so keep your fingers crossed for an October launch. Nintendo is expected to reveal full details, including price, launch lineup, and final date during their Keynote address at September's Tokyo Game Show, and as always we'll keep you up to date on any new developments.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Monday, July 10 2006 22:35 PM
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Gunpey Confirmed for North America [ IGN DS ]
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Following reports that the block-matching and music puzzle game Gunpey was coming from Q Entertainment, Namco Bandai has announced the game will be coming to North America. Q Entertainment has been responsible for games such as Meteos and Lumines, two of the most popular puzzles games on the DS and PSP respectively. Gunpey is a tribute to Gunpei Yokoi, father of the Game Boy. Gunpey will be coming to North America this holiday season for the DS and PSP.
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Monday, July 10 2006 20:58 PM
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Take-Two Interactive, one of the largest publishing firms in the world, and publishers as such titles as the Grand Theft Auto series (under their Rockstar Games brand), and the Major League Baseball 2K and Top Spin series (under their 2K Sports band) may be in some serious hot water. The company announced today that they are being investiganed by the Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding stock options created by the company for employee compensation. The inquiry is informal and no threat of legal action has been made by the SEC, but one can only fear what might happen to Take-Two if any illegal stock activity is found. Take-Two states, however, they will fully cooperate with the SEC. More as it breaks.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Monday, July 10 2006 13:13 PM
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Our very own Editor-in-Chief/PR Assistant Director Kevin McGinnis is going to be making a live appearance on Fearless Radio's gaming show, Play or Die, tonight, around 9:30 Eastern time. Listen for Kevin to talk about the Café, E3, our DVD, the Wii, and anything else that might come up. Kevin is a well-spoken and very funny individual, so you should enjoy listening to him talk about something he knows and loves. Make sure you tune in by hitting the link above.
Carl DeNovio
-- Posted on Friday, July 7 2006 19:48 PM
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Blizzard Hunts for Console Developers [ IGN Wii ]
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Senior Producer, you say? Someone that's recently released a AAA game in a producer role for PS2, PS3, GCN, Xbox, and Xbox 360? Well, Blizzard might just be after you, especially if you have experience with the PS3, 360, or Wii. The company is also looking for the following positions: Next-Gen Senior Engine Programmer, Next-Gen Engine Programmer, Next-Gen Tools Programmer, Audio Software Engineer, and a Level Designer for its so called "Blizzard Console" team. All of this comes as good news, especially since Blizzard recently announced they weren't intending on focusing on a single genre or platform only. Hopefully we'll see some games for Wii. Maybe they'll actually even finish StarCraft: Ghost one day. Maybe.
Joe McCollum
-- Posted on Thursday, July 6 2006 21:24 PM
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Nintendo has sent President Bush a Nintendo DS Lite and a copy of Brain Age: Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day for his 60th birthday. The corresponding letter they sent is below:
Dear President Bush:
Happy Birthday!
Don’t worry, turning 60 is an exciting milestone. As you know, you’ve joined millions of other baby boomers in an invigorating new decade of your life. And, like many boomers, you may be looking for ways to keep your mind sharp. That’s where we come in.
Please accept our gift of a new Nintendo DS Lite system and a copy of Brain Age: Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day. You now join millions of people around the world who have fun challenging themselves with Brain Age. If you have never played a video game before, don’t worry. Brain Age is part of our new Touch Generations brand, which includes games that are easy for people of any age - regardless of their video game experience - to pick up and start playing immediately.
It’s obvious you don’t have a lot of time to play games, which makes Brain Age such a great activity for you - just a few minutes a day with more than 15 daily training tests will help keep your mind sharp. Training tests include categories like math, reading and memorization. Try it for a few days and watch your score improve. Brain Age also comes with more than 100 sudoku puzzles - these could make your next long flight on Air Force One a bit more fun! (Perhaps copies of Brain Age for journalists joining you on your next flight would be a nice distraction!). Have fun exploring Brain Age with your Nintendo DS Lite and be sure to let us know your brain age!
Have a tremendous birthday!
Sincerely,
Your Friends at Nintendo
Matthew Silver
-- Posted on Wednesday, July 5 2006 21:25 PM
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New Puzzle Game for DS From Q? Entertainment [ Famitsu ]
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The latest issue of Famitsu reveals that Q? Entertainment, headed up by former HAL producer Tetsuya Mizuguchi, and developers of the popular DS puzzle game Meteos, is hard at work on a new music-based puzzle game for the dual-screened handheld. Entitled Oto o Kei Gou! Gunpey Reverse, the game is based off of the popular Gunpey puzzle game for the Bandai Wonderswan, named as a tribute to the console's creator (as well as the creator of the Game Boy) the late Gunpei Yokoi. The game will be similar to Meteos, involving dragging blocks with the touch screen to create combinations and chains. However, it will have more a basis in music, as completing chains will allow players to make their own music. The game is set to release in Japan later this year, with a North American release unknown, but possible.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, July 5 2006 14:47 PM
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According to the "Exhibitors" page on the official website for the Tokyo Game Show, Nintendo will, like always, not be exhibiting at the event. This comes as a surprise due to the major momentum the Wii is experiencing in the country, with Wii games beating out PS3 and 360 games in post-E3 interest polls, as well as the Wii itself beating out the PS3 in said polls. Such a move would certainly give Sony, who usually dominates TGS due to Nintendo's no-shows and Microsoft's irrelivance in the country, a good opportunity to show off the PS3 unopposed, and perhaps give them the necessary push for victory in the holiday wars.
However, this could also simply mean Nintendo could once again be dusting off their Spaceworld event, last seen in 2001 to promote the release of the GameCube, for a pre-launch event, although that is highly unlikely at this point. Nintendo could also be planning what they did last year: a pre-convention keynote speech by President Satoru Iwata, where the console's final secrets, as well as the final launch date, price, and titles, could be revealed. Still, it's hard to see Nintendo's logic in this situation.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, July 5 2006 14:05 PM
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Wii To Launch in October? [ CNN ]
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It's been heavily rumored that Nintendo plans to launch the Nintendo Wii before the PlayStation 3's launch on November 17th. Now, we may have a specific timeframe, as CNN's Chris Morris reports that the Big N is already producing final retail units of the console for an early launch, something Sony is yet to start. Analyst P.J. McNeely also states that October would be a reasonable timeframe, while industry insiders say the console could potentially launch as early as September. Stay tuned for more as it breaks.
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Wednesday, July 5 2006 13:38 PM
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Rayman: Raving Rabbids is the latest in Ubisoft's popular Rayman franchise, and Rayman: Raving Rabbids promises to be the biggest Rayman has ever been. Once again under the design of the legendary Michal Ancel, Rayman: Raving Rabbids is set as a launch title for the Nintendo Wii, and it will also hit current-gen consoles and handhelds this fall.. Check out a pair of new videos featuring the always-insane bunnies from hell below by saving them to your hard drive.
Video:
Rayman: Raving Rabbids Trailer 1 (3.8 MB)
Rayman: Raving Rabbids Trailer 2 (2.7 MB)
Eric Jones
-- Posted on Tuesday, July 4 2006 22:08 PM
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