Today's Special Archives: July 2008

News Archives Index Wii Heads to Cursed Mountain [ Deep Silver ] Global video game developer and publisher Deep Silver today revealed the first details of Cursed Mountain, a survival horror game produced exclusively for Wii by their internal development studio and its partners. Set in the late 1980s, gamers will take on the role of a fearless mountaineer as he climbs into the Himalayas on a quest to find his lost brother. As he ascends the mountain, he encounters an ancient curse: the souls of the people who died in that region are stuck in limbo, caught in the Shadow World. Villagers, pilgrims, mountaineers and Buddhist monks – dead but not yet reincarnated – are all that is left on the mountain. Terrible visions will disorient him, and ghosts and demons block his path. But the question remains – is his brother still alive? Designed exclusively for Wii, Cursed Mountain features rich visuals and breathtaking views – set on the roof of the world in the life threatening death zone, the entire game world is visible from every level. The gesture-based combat system takes full advantage of the Wii motion sensitivity. Players will use the Wii Remote to look around, sense the environment, climb and fight enemies. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, July 31 2008 18:01 PM [Top] Today's WiiWare/VC Games [ Nintendo ] WiiWare Pong Toss—Frat Party Games (JV Games, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone—Mild Language, 800 Wii Points): Pony up—it’s Pong Toss time. Compete against your friends or the computer in this ultimate party-game favorite. Play on a regulation table with up to four players. Make consecutive shots for the Fireball bonuses and Roll-Backs as you or your team try to dominate the table and reign as Pong Toss champs. In Speed Pong, up to three challengers can compete at the same time. Speed and strategy are the keys to this fast-paced game. Jack up your opponents by using a slew of power-ups that will slow them down. The first one who sinks the last cup wins it all. Be fast. Be furious. Be victorious. Virtual Console Chase H.Q. (TurboGrafx16, 1 player, Rated E10 for Everyone 10 and Older—Drug Reference, Mild Violence, 600 Wii Points): This is a different style of racing game in which you attempt to catch criminals by chasing them and ramming their cars off the road. Playing as two cops from the NYPD special “CHASE H.Q.” unit, the first half of each stage involves you maneuvering your unmarked car in a heated chase, followed by an action sequence in the latter half. Once you reach the target vehicle, you flip on your lights and siren, and then try to stop the culprits by repeatedly colliding with them. Use your different gears wisely as you make your way through streets and around corners, and be careful not to hit objects or other cars, or you’ll lose speed. Also at your disposal are turbo units for temporary extra speed and ramming power. ART OF FIGHTING 2 (NEOGEO, 1-2 players, Rated T for Teen—Alcohol and Tobacco Reference, Violence, 900 Wii Points): Released in 1994 by SNK, ART OF FIGHTING 2 sees 12 characters compete for the title in the toughest fighting contest of them all: King of Fighters. Each character has a range of deadly techniques in his or her arsenal, and players must use these lethal techniques to fight their opponents. As in the original ART OF FIGHTING, however, using a deadly technique lowers a character’s mental-energy gauge. For this reason, players must use these techniques carefully. Meanwhile, players can taunt an opponent to exhaust his or her mental energy, and even suppress their opponent’s techniques if successful. This type of mental-energy offense and defense gives ART OF FIGHTING 2 a uniquely enjoyable spin on the fighting-game genre. Further adding to the strategy required to win, an attack will become stronger or weaker depending on exactly when the button is pressed. And even if a player is thrown, defensive action is possible with the timely press of a button. All of this adds up to an intense and nail-biting fighting-game experience not found anywhere else. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 28 2008 12:55 PM [Top] Capcom Confirms Dead Rising Wii for North America [ Capcom ] Capcom today announced that Dead Rising: Chop Till You Drop is in development for the Wii home video game system. Based on the critically acclaimed Dead Rising, which has sold in excess of one million units since its release in 2006, Dead Rising: Chop Till You Drop is scheduled to hit store shelves this Winter. Taking advantage of the same proven technology that brought Resident Evil 4 so successfully to Wii, Dead Rising: Chop Till You Drop delivers a more immersive, intuitive and interactive experience as players use the Wii Remote to shoot, slash and bludgeon their way through a zombie infested shopping mall, fighting for survival. Dead Rising: Chop Till You Drop follows the harrowing tale of Frank West, an overly zealous freelance journalist on a hunt for the scoop of a lifetime. In pursuit of a juicy lead, he makes his way to the small suburban town of Willamette only to find that it has become overrun by zombies. Frank escapes to the local shopping mall, thinking it will be a bastion of safety but it turns out to be anything but. It will be a true struggle to survive the endless stream of enemies, but players will have full reign of a realistic shopping centre and its varied stores offering an endless supply of real and makeshift weapons to fight off the flesh-hungry mob. If Frank is running low on health he can pay a visit to one of the many restaurants or cafes for a meal in order to restore his energy and continue the fight. The game is split into a series of individual cases, all of which Frank must complete in order to gain vital information that will allow him to piece together the truth behind the horrendous epidemic. In addition to the cases, players will be faced with the dilemma of deciding the rescue priority of the residents of Wilamette who also sought sanctuary in the mall. Depending on the player’s skill, some may not be so fortunate as each rescue needs to be undertaken in a set time period, therefore players may need to delay completion of a case in order to save a fellow human. Dead Rising: Chop Till You Drop’s infectious humor delivers some welcome relief from the incessant tide of zombies with players able to dress Frank up in a variety of comedic costumes and take on the undead hordes with a selection of improvised and sometimes highly ineffective weapons such as a toy sword or a football. Images: Dead Rising: Chop Till You Drop Screenshot 1 Dead Rising: Chop Till You Drop Screenshot 2 Dead Rising: Chop Till You Drop Screenshot 3 Dead Rising: Chop Till You Drop Screenshot 4 Dead Rising: Chop Till You Drop Screenshot 5 Dead Rising: Chop Till You Drop Logo Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 21 2008 19:34 PM [Top] This Week's WiiWare/VC Games [ Nintendo ] WiiWare Pirates: The Key of Dreams (Oxygen Games, 1-4 players, Rated E for Everyone-Mild Violence, 1,000 Wii Points): Pirates: The Key of Dreams is a frantic nautical shoot-'em-up. Sail your way across the Caribbean, cannons blazing, looting booty, running blockades and ultimately battling Blackbeard himself. The player takes control of a navy captain sent deep undercover as a ruthless pirate in order to seek out and retrieve the Key of Dreams, a valuable and dangerous cursed artifact. Rescue castaways to bolster your ship's crew, gaining performance increases to your navigation, weaponry, structural integrity and cartography skills. Collect increasingly powerful weaponry including rockets, mines, chain shot, saw blades and a flamethrower to hurl destruction into the path of your enemies. Play against three of your scurvy friends or A.I. opponents in pitched multiplayer battles over 35 levels, set in seven themed environments. Choose from different ship types that reflect your play style. Play in turbo mode if you're pirate enough. Virtual Console Super Fantasy Zone (Sega Genesis, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone-Mild Cartoon Violence, 900 Wii Points): The last entry in the Fantasy Zone series, this side-scrolling shooter puts you in the shoes of main character Opa-Opa, who is on a mission to avenge the death of his father. To do so, you'll have to battle a variety of Enemy Generators to clear out the various levels and finish off the Menon Guardian at the end of the level. Eliminating your enemies will let you rack up some gold, which you can use to buy even better weapons, upgrades and other equipment. Spend your gold wisely, as each different boss you need to defeat presents a unique challenge. Gley Lancer (Sega Genesis, 1 player, Rated E10 for Everyone 10 and Older-Mild Suggestive Themes, Mild Fantasy Violence, 900 Wii Points): In the year 2025, a war breaks out between humans and a hostile alien race, and 16-year-old Lucia and the rest of the starfighter pilots in the Earth Federation must join the battle. When Lucia's father is kidnapped by the aliens, she decides to take action and hijacks a brand new prototype starfighter, the Gley Lancer, in order to try to save him. In this side-scrolling shooter, step into the cockpit of the Gley Lancer as Lucia, rescue your father and destroy the evil aliens that are bent on destroying the human race. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 21 2008 18:32 PM [Top] E3 2008: Dragon Quest IV Assets [ Square Enix ] For the first time, a full-fledged DRAGON QUEST adventure arrives on Nintendo DS with DRAGON QUEST IV: Chapters of the Chosen. The brainchild of series creator Yuji Horii, the DRAGON QUEST series has continued to excite and enchant players with its engaging storylines, charming characters designed by world-famous manga artist Akira Toriyama and imaginative worlds complemented by the memorable scores of renowned composer Koichi Sugiyama. Experience an adventure of epic proportions, presented through a unique portrayal of multiple character perspectives. While retaining the classic look and feel of the original release, this remake breathes new life into a much-loved entry in the DRAGON QUEST series with 3D graphics, dual screen presentation and newly animated monsters. Images: Dragon Quest IV Screenshot 1 Dragon Quest IV Screenshot 2 Dragon Quest IV Screenshot 3 Dragon Quest IV Screenshot 4 Dragon Quest IV Screenshot 5 Dragon Quest IV Boxart Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 21 2008 15:05 PM [Top] E3 2008: Final Fantasy IV Assets [ Square Enix ] Widely considered to be one of the greatest RPGs of all time, Final Fantasy IV comes to the Nintendo DS with newly-designed 3D graphics, voice acting, and epic cutscenes, plus new touch screen-based controls. The game releases this week, so check out some new screens, artwork, and the game's official boxart below. Images: Final Fantasy IV Screenshot 1 Final Fantasy IV Screenshot 2 Final Fantasy IV Screenshot 3 Final Fantasy IV Screenshot 4 Final Fantasy IV Screenshot 5 Final Fantasy IV Artwork 1 Final Fantasy IV Artwork 2 Final Fantasy IV Artwork 3 Final Fantasy IV Boxart Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 21 2008 13:54 PM [Top] New Sonic Announced for Wii [ Sega ] SEGA today announced Sonic and the Black Knight, an all-new Wii-exclusive adventure. Part of the storybook series of games that began with Sonic and the Secret Rings, this new title brings Sonic into the world of Arthurian legend and offers the worlds most infamous blue hedgehog the chance to become a knight. Using the unique Wii control system, this exciting game will take advantage of both the Wii Remote and the Nunchuk to offer an interactive experience that any Sonic fans will love. Created by Sonic Team in Japan, this innovative game takes Sonic into a medieval world and arms him with a sword to aid in his effort to save the day. Sonic and the Black Knight will provide Sonic fans with an irresistible cast of characters and teach them all what it takes to be a true hero and the ultimate knight. With a series of missions taking place in stunning Arthurian-inspired locations, Sonic and the Black Knight promises to offer a fast-paced adventure that gamers of all ages will enjoy. Sonic and the Black Knight, exclusively for the Wii, will be out in Spring 2009. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 21 2008 12:27 PM [Top] E3 2008: Sam & Max Season One Assets [ Dreamcatcher ] Sam is a six-foot dog in a baggy suit, sporting a trombone-sized .44 hand-cannon. Max is a three foot “rabbity thing” with a saw blade grin and the impulsive nature of the average piranha. Together, they patrol the sticky streets of a fantastical New York City, righting wrongs, pummeling perps, and ridding the urban landscape of the shifty legions of “self-propelled gutter trash” that litter their neighborhood. With similarities to a TV sitcom, Sam & Max Season One for Wii is well suited for group gameplay and the “living room experience.” The humor, gameplay, and intuitive “point and click” interface appeal to a mainstream audience. The franchise has a strong fanbase, whose emails and enthusiasm helped drive the Sam & Max series to the Wii. Images: Sam & Max Season One Screenshot 1 Sam & Max Season One Screenshot 2 Sam & Max Season One Screenshot 3 Sam & Max Season One Screenshot 4 Sam & Max Season One Screenshot 5 Sam & Max Season One Boxart Video: Sam & Max Season One Trailer (66.3 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 21 2008 11:09 AM [Top] E3 2008: Star Wars: The Clone Wars Wii Assets [ LucasArts ] 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 featured film. 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. Images: Star Wars The Clone Wars: Lightsaber Duels Screenshot 1 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Lightsaber Duels Screenshot 2 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Lightsaber Duels Screenshot 3 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Lightsaber Duels Screenshot 4 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Lightsaber Duels Screenshot 5 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Lightsaber Duels Artwork Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 21 2008 10:01 AM [Top] E3 2008: Star Wars The Clone Wars DS Assets [ LucasArts ] 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. Images: Star Wars The Clone Wars: Jedi Alliance Screenshot 1 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Jedi Alliance Screenshot 2 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Jedi Alliance Screenshot 3 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Jedi Alliance Screenshot 4 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Jedi Alliance Screenshot 5 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Jedi Alliance Artwork 1 Star Wars The Clone Wars: Jedi Alliance Artwork 2 Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 21 2008 2:53 AM [Top] E3 2008: Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Assets [ LucasArts ] Star Wars: The Force Unleashed will be released on September 16, 2008 in the United States, September 17 in Southeast Asia and Australia, and September 19 in Europe. An entirely new chapter in the Star Wars Saga, Star Wars: The Force Unleashed casts players as Darth Vader's "Secret Apprentice" and promises to unveil new revelations about the Star Wars galaxy. The game's expansive story is set during the largely unexplored era between Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith and Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope. In it, players will assist Vader in his quest to rid the universe of Jedi - and face decisions that could change the course of their destiny. Images: Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Wii Screenshot 1 Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Wii Screenshot 2 Star Wars: The Force Unleashed DS Screenshot 1 Star Wars: The Force Unleashed DS Screenshot 2 Star Wars: The Force Unleashed DS Screenshot 3 Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Artwork 1 Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Artwork 2 Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Artwork 3 Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Artwork 4 Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Artwork 5 Eric Jones -- Posted on Sunday, July 20 2008 23:33 PM [Top] E3 2008: Lego Batman Screenshots [ Warner Bros. Interactive ] LEGO Batman: The Videogame is the latest game from the award-winning team behind the LEGO Star Wars series of games. With trademark LEGO fun and charm, the game takes you into the world of the ultimate crime-fighting hero. LEGO Batman: The Videogame brings the one-and-only Caped Crusader to life in a completely original storyline. Players will take control of the Dynamic Duo, Batman and Robin, to fight Gotham City’s most notorious criminals including The Joker, The Penguin, Catwoman, Scarecrow, Killer Croc and many more. The criminals have broken out of Arkham Asylum and are set to wreak havoc on the city. Players will also be able to explore their wicked side and fight their way through the game as the villains, experiencing the game from a completely different point of view with all-new criminal objectives! With a collection of high-tech suits, gadgets and cutting-edge vehicles on hand, players will be able to step into the unique LEGO Batman universe to bring super villains to justice – or, as the villains, to run amok in Gotham City! Images: Lego Batman Screenshot 1 Lego Batman Screenshot 2 Lego Batman Screenshot 3 Lego Batman Screenshot 4 Lego Batman Screenshot 5 Lego Batman Screenshot 6 Eric Jones -- Posted on Sunday, July 20 2008 22:53 PM [Top] Dead Rising Hits Japan this Winter [ Capcom ] Capcom has added a Japanese page for their upcoming remake/re-imagining of survival horror zombiefest Dead Rising for the Wii. The site is pretty bare right now, but it does confirm that the game will be releasing this winter in Japan, so a US release is likely not far behind. There are a bunch of new screens in the flash intro to the site, so be sure to check it out; the game looks like it could be one of the best looking third-party titles for the Wii seen yet. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Friday, July 18 2008 13:40 PM [Top] E3 2008: Rayman Raving Rabbids TV Party Assets [ Ubisoft ] The Rabbids have taken over almost every channel you can imagine, from music to movies – even TV ads! Help the Rabbids destroy all our daily viewing and drive Rayman crazy. In Story Mode, play through a week of television, with each day bringing new wacky challenges of skill and insane movements in a compilation of mini-games. With up to eight players in turn-based mode and four players simultaneously, get ready for you and all your friends to go insane! Key Features •Unique use of the Wii Balance Board. Play loads of exciting new games with the new Wii Balance Board and experience the first game in the world that you can play with your rear end! •New wacky games. 65 brand-new games that spoof popular culture, from TV series to TV classics, not to mention insane ads! •All-new party mode. Play co-op or battle your friends simultaneously with up to four players, or go crazy with up to eight players in party mode! You can even sabotage your friends while they are playing! •Unique use of the Wii Remote. Discover new and innovative ways to play with eight types of gameplay, including shaking, precision, dexterity and balance. •Shake that Rabbid. Use the Wii Remote and Wii Balance Board to dance and wiggle your booty. •Customize your bunny. Pimp your bunny out, take his photo and send it to your friends online. Images: Rayman: Raving Rabbids TV Party Screenshot 1 Rayman: Raving Rabbids TV Party Screenshot 2 Rayman: Raving Rabbids TV Party Screenshot 3 Rayman: Raving Rabbids TV Party Screenshot 4 Rayman: Raving Rabbids TV Party Screenshot 5 Rayman: Raving Rabbids TV Party Artwork 1 Rayman: Raving Rabbids TV Party Artwork 2 Rayman: Raving Rabbids TV Party Artwork 3 Rayman: Raving Rabbids TV Party Logo Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 18 2008 13:25 PM [Top] Nintendo Officially #1 in North America [ Nintendo ] Equaling its status on a worldwide basis, Wii has become the best-selling video game console in the United States. According to independent sales tracking information from the NPD Group, more than 666,000 Wii consoles sold for the month of June, and nearly 10.9 million Wii consoles have been sold in the United States in the 20 months following its November 2006 launch. The system is credited with breaking down the psychological barriers between gamers and non-gamers. The portable Nintendo DS finished as the top-selling U.S. video game system in June, with more than 783,000 units sold. To date, more than 20.8 million Nintendo DS has been sold in the United States. The report also shows that six out of the top 10 best-selling games for June are made for Nintendo systems, including Guitar Hero On Tour (No. 2), Wii Fit (No. 4), Wii Play? (No. 5), Mario Kart Wii (No. 6), LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures for Wii (No. 7) and LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures for Nintendo DS (No. 9). Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 18 2008 12:07 PM [Top] E3 2008: Bangai-O Spirits Assets [ D3Publisher ] A remake of a classic Dreamcast shooter, Bangai-O Spirits brings giant robot insanity to the Nintendo DS. Developed by Treasure, arguably the best shooter developer in the industry, the game features anime-inspired graphics and spot-on controls, not to mention tons of high-speed shooting action. Check out the game's screens below. Images: Bangai-O Spirits Screenshot 1 Bangai-O Spirits Screenshot 2 Bangai-O Spirits Screenshot 3 Bangai-O Spirits Screenshot 4 Bangai-O Spirits Screenshot 5 Bangai-O Spirits Screenshot 6 Bangai-O Spirits Screenshot 7 Bangai-O Spirits Screenshot 8 Bangai-O Spirits Logo Bangai-O Spirits Artwork 1 Bangai-O Spirits Artwork 2 Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 18 2008 1:06 AM [Top] E3 2008: Madagascar 2 Trailer [ Activision ] The crazy animals from the first Madagascar are back for an entirely new adventure this fall, this time on both Wii and Nintendo DS. Activision's Madagascar Escape 2 Africa continues the company's relationship with Dreamworks Animation Studios, which has yielded such titles as Over the Hedge and Shrek the Third. Check out the game's debut trailer below. Video: Madagascar Escape 2 Africa Teaser Trailer (46.2 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, July 17 2008 12:29 PM [Top] E3 2008: Quantum of Solace Details and Screens [ Activision ] Bond Is Back. Blending first-person shooting and third-person action, Quantum of Solace: The Game puts you in control of Bond’s greatest weapon – his mind. Based on both the Quantum of Solace and Casino Royale films, Quantum of Solace: The Game puts you in the ruthless world of international espionage and intrigue. NDS Innovative Touch Screen Control – Streamlined controls have you navigating the world and engaging in combat using only one button and the stylus. Cinematic Appeal – The story puts you in the high-stakes world of both Quantum of Solace and Casino Royale, as you control James Bond through in-game conversations with multiple narrative options. Choose wisely – you may unlock new abilities and uncover bonus items! Wii Innovative Wii Controls – Take control of Bond’s skills with two distinct control schemes designed specifically for Wii. Whether you wield the Wii Remote and Nunchuk or take aim with the Wii Zapper, you’ll be fully immersed into the Bond universe. Unparalleled Bond Multiplayer Experience – Take the battle online or challenge four friends in splitscreen local multiplayer – an exclusive Wii mode! Images: Quantum of Solace (DS) Screenshot 1 Quantum of Solace (DS) Screenshot 2 Quantum of Solace (DS) Screenshot 3 Quantum of Solace (DS) Screenshot 4 Quantum of Solace (DS) Screenshot 5 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, July 17 2008 11:56 AM [Top] E3 2008: Miyamoto Confirms Pikmin 3 [ Joystiq ] With yesterday's casual-centric Nintendo conference, hardcore gamers were hoping the company would throw a bone...any bone their way. Tonight, speaking at a small developer's conference, Nintendo's legendary producer Shigeru Miyamoto finally spilled the beans on Nintendo's future plans, announcing that a third Pikmin game will be coming to the Wii in the near future. When will it come? We'll just have to wait and see to find out. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 16 2008 23:26 PM [Top] E3 2008: New Call of Duty: World at War Screens/Trailer [ Activision ] One of gaming's premiere shooter franchise returns to the Wii in 2008 with Activision's Call of Duty: World at War. As the first Wii installment in almost two years, World at War returns the franchise to World War II, concentrating on the Pacific battles of the conflict. The game will feature new weapons, new vehicles, and in a first for Call of Duty, co-op. In addition, the game has been fully customized to make use of the Wii Zapper for the ultimate in FPS control. Check out screens for both the Wii and DS versions, the game's logo, and the first trailer below. Images: Call of Duty: World at War (Wii) Screenshot 1 Call of Duty: World at War (Wii) Screenshot 2 Call of Duty: World at War (DS) Screenshot 1 Call of Duty: World at War (DS) Screenshot 2 Call of Duty: World at War Logo Video: Call of Duty: World at War Trailer (81.2 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 16 2008 22:56 PM [Top] Dead Rising Comes Back to Life on Wii [ Famitsu ] After yesterday's Nintendo press conference didn't exactly give us a good feeling about the Wii's future as a hardcore-oriented platform, we've been waiting with baited breath to see if any company would step up and fill the void that Nintendo has graciously left for providing quality core gamer content on their own console. Thanks to Capcom, we didn't have to wait long. The latest issue of Famitsu reveals that Dead Rising, the kill-all-the-zombies survival horrorfest Xbox 360 smash hit from 2006 is coming back to life just like the very zombies it stars. The game is essentially a remake, as players control photojournalist Frank West as he is trapped in a shopping mall with hundreds of zombies and must use every weapon and tool at his disposal (which, being that it is a shopping mall, is a lot) to make the undead dead again. Don't expect just a straight port though - Capcom has changed the camera angle and controls to make the game less like a third-person action title and more like one of the company's most storied titles, Resident Evil 4. The game will feature Wii Remote aiming, as well as waggle-based context-sensitive actions when Frank is trapped or in order to finish off a hapless zombie. What's even more surprising is that based upon the screenshots from the scans (which you can see below), the game doesn't look all that much different from its 360 cousin, with some of the best graphics seen yet from Wii. Dead Rising for Wii has no apparent release date, but we probably won't be seeing it until next year. Images: Dead Rising Wii Famitsu Scan 1 Dead Rising Wii Famitsu Scan 2 Dead Rising Wii Famitsu Scan 3 Dead Rising Wii Famitsu Scan 4 Dead Rising Wii Famitsu Scan 5 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 16 2008 19:31 PM [Top] E3 2008: Wario Land Shake It! Assets [ Nintendo ] Wario, Nintendo’s greedy, uncouth and rude anti-hero, returns to his roots. The Wario Land series is where Wario first appeared, and it’s back in all its side-scrolling, platform-jumping glory. • With the Wii Remote controller turned sideways, veterans and newcomers alike can run, jump and smash their way through hectic side-scrolling stages. By shaking the Wii Remote, you can shake down your enemies, free coins from treasure bags and even cause earthquakes. • Each stage is a masterfully crafted side-scrolling obstacle course of puzzles, enemies and assorted hazards. Every stage holds numerous secrets and treasures to discover (and steal). And each stage has multiple “missions” to keep you coming back again and again to unlock everything, collect more coins or just improve your best time. • Wario returns to form, with all the jumping, power-dashing and butt-stomping we’ve come to expect. This is surly Wario at his finest. Game storyline: Wario receives an antique globe and telescope that allow him to travel to the once-idyllic Shake Dimension, now conquered by the tyrannical pirate, the Shake King. With the assistance of his longtime rival, Captain Syrup, he must rescue the Merfles, denizens of the Shake Dimension imprisoned by the Shake King. Only by defeating the bosses of all five continents of this strange world can Wario find and confront the Shake King, rescue Queen Merelda, queen of the Merfles, and, most importantly, claim the Bottomless Coin Sack, a never-ending supply of gold. How to progress through the game: Each stage has Wario navigating an obstacle course of dangers and traps to find an imprisoned Merfle. Once he frees the little fellow, the countdown begins and he must find his way back to the starting gate before time runs out. Wario must also defeat a boss in each continent, and then buy a map of the next continent from Captain Syrup. Once all five continents’ bosses have been defeated, Wario takes on the Shake King himself. Characters: Wario, our “hero.” Captain Syrup, a female pirate (and rival from previous games) who aids Wario on his quest. The Merfles, helpless natives of the Shake Dimension, and their queen, Queen Merelda. The Shake King, leader of a ruthless pirate band who has conquered the Shake Dimension. Special powers/weapons/moves/features: Wario can jump and dash, as per previous Wario Land games. New to this game is the ability to shake the Wii Remote for various effects. By default, a shake of the Wii Remote makes Wario punch the ground, causing a small earthquake and dazing enemies. Wario can then pick up dazed enemies and, with another shake of the Wii Remote, shake them for rejuvenating garlic and occasionally gold. Enemies can also be thrown, and you aim by tilting the Wii Remote. Wario also takes control of three different vehicles during the course of the game, all of which are piloted in part by tilting the Wii Remote. The controls are standard for a Wii Remote held sideways (D-pad, buttons), but with an important twist: most of Wario’s special moves are accomplished by shaking or tilting the Wii Remote. This allows great versatility but without forcing the player to remember complicated button combinations. Images: Wario Land Shake It! Screenshot 1 Wario Land Shake It! Screenshot 2 Wario Land Shake It! Screenshot 3 Wario Land Shake It! Screenshot 4 Wario Land Shake It! Screenshot 5 Wario Land Shake It! Screenshot 6 Wario Land Shake It! Screenshot 7 Wario Land Shake It! Screenshot 8 Wario Land Shake It! Screenshot 9 Wario Land Shake It! Screenshot 10 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 1 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 2 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 3 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 4 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 5 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 6 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 7 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 8 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 9 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 10 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 11 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 12 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 13 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 14 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 15 Wario Land Shake It! Artwork 16 Wario Land Shake It! Logo Wario Land Shake It! Boxart Video: Wario Land Shake It! Trailer (4.6 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 16 2008 0:29 AM [Top] Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Assets [ Nintendo ] Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Format: Nintendo DS Launch Date: Sept. 8, 2008 ESRB: E (Everyone) – Violent References Game Type: Seek and Solve Players: 1-4 using multiple game cards Developer: Big Fish Games / Griptonite Games KEY INFORMATION Spot hidden clues to find the rightful heir. It takes a keen set of “private eyes” to identify the heir in this interactive detective story. Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir presents a new generation of seek-and-solve games for a new generation of Nintendo DS owners. Whether you like to play for minutes at a time or hours a day, Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir has your game experience covered. • Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir showcases a multitude of beautiful, intricately detailed painted scenes in which players seek out cleverly hidden items to progress through an interactive detective story. There are 12 potential heirs to examine, 30 detailed scenes to peruse and more than 1,000 hidden objects to find. • With the game’s intuitive touch-screen control, fans can quickly delve into the world of Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir and begin their investigation. Players use special analytical tools and interact with on-screen objects simply by using the Nintendo DS stylus. • Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir is the only Mystery Case Files game to include multiplayer options. In multiplayer modes, players can search for clues together or compete head-to-head. Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir also includes game-sharing with DS Download Play so friends and family can share the experience. Game storyline: Shortly after returning from six months on his ultra-plush yacht visiting the far reaches of the globe, eccentric millionaire Phil T. Rich mysteriously disappears from his mansion and is presumed dead. Hired by Mr. Rich’s estate, a highly skilled Master Detective is brought in to solve the case and find the rightful heir to his fortune. How to progress through the game: Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir takes a bold step into Touch Generations with a new game in the accomplished Mystery Case Files series from Big Fish Games. Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir is a seek-and-solve game in which players assume the role of a detective who investigates a set of unique characters by finding cleverly hidden items in their environments. The objects are displayed in plain sight but are seamlessly interwoven into the illustration, making them challenging to find. Once a player finds enough hidden objects in a certain area, the character and area will be considered investigated. The player will then be prompted to move to the next potential clue. Characters: Phil T. Rich and a rich cast of possible heirs. Mini-games: Finding hidden objects is not the only activity in Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir. Between investigations, players are presented with entertaining brain teasers that must be solved in order to progress. These mini-games add to the depth of the experience by including game-play mechanics that reach beyond the core searching elements. All of the mini-games use the Nintendo DS stylus in ways that provide a true Touch Generations experience. Images: Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Screenshot 1 Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Screenshot 2 Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Screenshot 3 Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Screenshot 4 Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Screenshot 5 Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Screenshot 6 Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Screenshot 7 Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Screenshot 8 Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Screenshot 9 Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Screenshot 10 Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Screenshot 11 Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Screenshot 12 Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Screenshot 13 Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Screenshot 14 Video: Mystery Case Files: MillionHeir Trailer (7.17 MB) Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, July 16 2008 0:11 AM [Top] Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Assets [ Nintendo ] Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Format: Nintendo DS Launch Date: Nov. 10, 2008 ESRB: E (Everyone) – Comic Mischief and Mild Cartoon Violence Game Type: Action Adventure Players: 1 Developer: Creatures KEY INFORMATION Become a Pokémon Ranger and protect nature, rescue people and help Pokémon in need. • Pokémon Ranger is a unique action-adventure series that features a fun, different way to capture Pokémon with the Nintendo DS stylus, which controls an item called the Capture Styler in the game. Players circle the Pokémon they want to catch by drawing circles around them on the touch screen. When you complete certain Quests, the Ranger Union awards you with power-ups, which add new upgrades and functions to your Capture Styler, allowing you to advance as you work to eventually become a Top Ranger (the most revered Ranger of all). • Now you can partner with a variety of different Pokémon of each type to complete Missions—giving you many options on how to approach different challenges. Every Pokémon is different, and capturing a Pokémon allows you to use its abilities to overcome various obstacles and challenges you will face along the way. The job of a Pokémon Ranger is never done: your duties will include fighting wildfires, rescuing people or even delivering an important package. • Your journey to become a Top Ranger takes you to the new region of Almia. This game has a larger world, more Missions, more adventure and more to do than the previous Pokémon Ranger game. It has a storyline full of adventure and the ability to travel to and explore many exciting new areas in Almia, including oceans, forests, deserts and more with the help of your Partner Pokémon. • This is the first game in the Pokémon Ranger series to feature Pokémon from Pokémon® Diamond and Pokémon® Pearl. Game storyline: In Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia, you once again play as a Pokémon Ranger, working to help people, Pokémon and nature in a new area called the Almia Region. Starting out as a Student Ranger, you quickly earn the title of a full-fledged Pokémon Ranger. As you succeed in more and more missions, you will aspire to – more – become the highest Ranger rank: Top Ranger. Along the way you meet and capture all kinds of different Pokémon. How to progress through the game: Capture wild Pokémon and create a team to clear obstacles and puzzles encountered along the way. After using a Pokémon’s ability, it will leave your team; however, you will have a Partner Pokémon that will always stay by your side. As you progress through Missions and Quests, your Capture Styler becomes more powerful, giving your Styler more Energy and eventually advancing you to the level of Top Ranger. Characters: Hundreds of Pokémon. Players can choose to be a boy or girl Pokémon Ranger. Special powers/weapons/moves/features: Use the Capture Styler to capture wild Pokémon. Once they are captured, wild Pokémon will follow the player around until their powers are used (either in a Poké Assist or a Field Move). • A Poké Assist is when the player uses an already captured Pokémon to help capture another wild Pokémon. • A Field Move is when the player uses a captured Pokémon’s power to clear an obstacle in the way or perform another helpful function. Images: Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Logo Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Boxart Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Screenshot 1 Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Screenshot 2 Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Screenshot 3 Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Screenshot 4 Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Screenshot 5 Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Screenshot 6 Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Screenshot 7 Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Screenshot 8 Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Screenshot 9 Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Screenshot 10 Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Screenshot 11 Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Screenshot 12 Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Screenshot 13 Video: Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia Trailer (20.4 MB) Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, July 16 2008 0:06 AM [Top] Cooking Guide Assets [ Nintendo ] Cooking Guide: Can’t Decide What to Eat? (working title) Format: Nintendo DS Launch Date: Nov. 24, 2008 ESRB: RP (Rating Pending) Game Type: Cooking Training Players: 1 Developer: indies zero KEY INFORMATION Cooking Guide turns your Nintendo DS into an interactive cookbook, complete with recipes and video demos. • Cooking Guide includes more than 200 recipes from around the world. So no matter what you’re in the mood for, you can find something new and tasty to make for dinner. Users can search a map by country to find regional dishes or select options for low-calorie foods, specific ingredients or short cooking times. • Each recipe contains step-by-step directions and photos to make it possible to prepare dishes you’ve never tried before. Use the stylus or simple voice commands to “turn the page.” A tap of the touch screen lets you adjust the serving size automatically, and users can write and save cooking notes, just as they would in a paper recipe book. • The Cooking Guide chef talks you through the entire cooking process. Recipes include photos of the dish as well as instructional videos on how to perform different cooking techniques, such as how to chop an onion or clean a fish. Users can access a handy reference function to explain unfamiliar terms and cooking techniques when they appear. • The software includes a timer and calculator, as well as a search function to help you find what you’re looking for. Cooking Guide also includes an ingredient checklist to use as a shopping list – just put a mark next to the items you need and bring your Nintendo DS to the grocery store. Images: Cooking Guide: Can’t Decide What to Eat? Screenshot 1 Cooking Guide: Can’t Decide What to Eat? Screenshot 2 Cooking Guide: Can’t Decide What to Eat? Screenshot 3 Cooking Guide: Can’t Decide What to Eat? Screenshot 4 Cooking Guide: Can’t Decide What to Eat? Screenshot 5 Cooking Guide: Can’t Decide What to Eat? Screenshot 6 Cooking Guide: Can’t Decide What to Eat? Screenshot 7 Video: Cooking Guide: Can’t Decide What to Eat? Trailer Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, July 15 2008 23:58 PM [Top] Kirby Super Star Ultra Assets [ Nintendo ] Kirby Super Star Ultra Format: Nintendo DS Launch Date: Sept. 22, 2008 ESRB: E (Everyone) – Mild Cartoon Violence Game Type: Action/Platformer Players: 1-4 (2 using multiple game cards, up to 4 using DS Download Play) Developer: HAL Laboratory, Inc. KEY INFORMATION • With so many adventures waiting to be unlocked, there’ll never be a dull moment as you run, float, copy enemies and use Helpers to fight the likes of King Dedede and Meta Knight. • On top of a slew of new adventures, the original modes found in the beloved Super NES game, Kirby Super Star, are all here with updated graphics and fully rendered movie scenes. • There are also three new touch-screen-controlled mini-games that you can play with up to three friends via DS Download Play—Kirby Card Swipe, Kirby on the Draw and Snack Tracks. Game storyline: There are different plots for each of the games, ranging from Kirby’s fight to stop King Dedede from stealing all the food in Dream Land to Meta Knight’s quest to train for the ultimate battle. While most of the modes are traditional adventures, several of them, like Megaton Punch and Samurai Kirby, are quick mini-games. How to progress through the game: Run, float and fight your way through the adventure games as Kirby, gobbling up enemies as you go. Kirby can inhale enemies and spit them out as stars, but the main game play comes from swallowing foes and copying their abilities, then using the abilities to defeat other foes and advance past obstacles. In other games, you race King Dedede for food, compete in a punching contest or even adventure as Meta Knight. Characters: Kirby, King Dedede, Meta Knight and many enemies, both new and old. Special powers/weapons/moves/features: Besides his usual method of copying the abilities of foes, Kirby can also create Helpers out of Copy Abilities—these guys will fight alongside you and be controlled by the CPU or another player. Images: Kirby Super Star Ultra Logo Kirby Super Star Ultra Boxart Kirby Super Star Ultra Screenshot 1 Kirby Super Star Ultra Screenshot 2 Kirby Super Star Ultra Screenshot 3 Kirby Super Star Ultra Screenshot 4 Kirby Super Star Ultra Screenshot 5 Kirby Super Star Ultra Screenshot 6 Kirby Super Star Ultra Screenshot 7 Kirby Super Star Ultra Screenshot 8 Kirby Super Star Ultra Screenshot 9 Kirby Super Star Ultra Screenshot 10 Kirby Super Star Ultra Screenshot 11 Kirby Super Star Ultra Screenshot 12 Video: Kirby Super Star Ultra Trailer (9.55 MB) Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, July 15 2008 23:54 PM [Top] Rhythm Heaven Assets [ Nintendo ] Rhythm Heaven Format: Nintendo DS Launch Date: TBA ESRB: RP (Rating Pending) Game Type: Rhythm Players: 1 Developer: Nintendo KEY INFORMATION Rhythm Heaven is a simple and infectious rhythm game that anyone can play. If you can tap your finger in time to music, you’ll get the hang of Rhythm Heaven in no time! • Players hold the Nintendo DS system sideways like a book and tap their stylus on the touch screen to the rhythm of the music. Players tap, slide or flick the stylus to hit the right beat. • Rhythm Heaven features catchy tunes, charming characters and a wide variety of rhythm games. • Well-known Japanese music producer TSUNKU♂ helped direct Rhythm Heaven and composed the music for it. Images: Rhythm Heaven Logo Rhythm Heaven Artwork 1 Rhythm Heaven Artwork 2 Rhythm Heaven Artwork 3 Rhythm Heaven Artwork 4 Rhythm Heaven Artwork 5 Rhythm Heaven Artwork 6 Rhythm Heaven Artwork 7 Rhythm Heaven Artwork 8 Rhythm Heaven Artwork 9 Rhythm Heaven Artwork 10 Rhythm Heaven Artwork 11 Rhythm Heaven Screenshot 1 Rhythm Heaven Screenshot 2 Rhythm Heaven Screenshot 3 Video: Rhythm Heaven Trailer (6.08 MB) Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, July 15 2008 23:47 PM [Top] E3 2008: Mario Super Sluggers Assets [ Nintendo ] Let the Wii Remote controller be your bat as you join Mario, Luigi, Peach and the rest of the gang in a rocking, socking baseball extravaganza. • Newcomers to gaming or sports titles will be up and running on Mario Super Sluggers in no time. Simply swing the Wii Remote to smack a home run, or use a pitching motion to toss the ball over the plate. • Two, three or four players can pick up Wii Remote controllers and challenge one another to a full baseball game or compete in a host of baseball-themed mini-games. There’s even a home run hitting contest. • Mario Super Sluggers boasts more than 40 playable characters, all Nintendo favorites. The single-player adventure mode allows the player to explore Baseball Kingdom, tackle dozens of fun baseball challenges and unlock new characters that can be used in any mode. You can also play with your Mii characters in Exhibition, Toy Field and Minigame modes. Modes: Whether by yourself or surrounded by friends, there’s a Mario Super Sluggers game for every occasion. • Challenge: Trek across Baseball Kingdom in this single-player mode. Defeat characters in a variety of baseball-related challenges to persuade them to join your team. Once you’ve assembled an all-star team for the ages, throw down with the baddest baseballer in town: Bowser™! The single-player Challenge Mode is a sports fan’s dream. o Explore the rich and varied landscape of Baseball Kingdom as you gather teammates for your fight against Bowser. From lush tropical jungles to modern urban landscapes, each area of the kingdom is a new experience. o Like high-powered free agents, the characters in Mario Super Sluggers won’t join just any old team—they want to play for a winner. When you find a new character, he or she will test your skills on the field. Only by besting them in hitting, pitching and fielding contests can you get them to join your side. o In Challenge Mode, you can control one of five captains, each with personal special powers. Yoshi can jump through manholes, Wario has the power of magnetism and Donkey Kong can climb vines and shatter barrels. • Exhibition: Hit the field and try your luck with a team of your choice. You can play against either the computer or up to three other players. • Minigame: Challenge yourself or take on up to three other players in nine mini-games. From home run contests to pitching duels, you’ll have more fun than a rookie at his first spring training. • Toy Field: Battle against three other players in a hitting and fielding extravaganza. You can set your turn limit and the skill level of your computer opponents, or just play against friends. • Training: Learn the ropes in an extensive tutorial mode. Characters: More than 40 characters from the Mario universe come together in Mario Super Sluggers. Special powers/items/moves/features: This isn’t your typical baseball game. From special moves to obstacle-filled stadiums, there’s always something new around the corner. • Special Moves: All of the captains have unique Star Skills that allow them to perform special moves while pitching or batting. Mario can turn his fastball into a fireball, Daisy™ can create a flower garden in the outfield and Luigi can turn infield hits into a raging tornado. Non-captains can also use Star Skills to put a little extra mustard on hits or pitches. • Chemistry: Just as in real sports, certain characters in Mario Super Sluggers have a special connection on the field. Known as chemistry, this connection allows players to make spectacular leaping catches, gun down speedy base runners and use items to interfere with fielders. • Stadiums: There are nine unique stadiums in the game, everything from an ice-filled castle to an urban cityscape. Many stadiums can be accessed at both day and night, allowing you to play a doubleheader under the lights. • Nunchuk: Experienced gamers can also attach the Nunchuk controller for a more advanced gaming experience. Images: Mario Super Sluggers Screenshot 1 Mario Super Sluggers Screenshot 2 Mario Super Sluggers Screenshot 3 Mario Super Sluggers Screenshot 4 Mario Super Sluggers Screenshot 5 Mario Super Sluggers Screenshot 6 Mario Super Sluggers Screenshot 7 Mario Super Sluggers Screenshot 8 Mario Super Sluggers Screenshot 9 Mario Super Sluggers Screenshot 10 Mario Super Sluggers Screenshot 11 Mario Super Sluggers Screenshot 12 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 1 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 2 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 3 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 4 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 5 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 6 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 7 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 8 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 9 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 10 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 11 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 12 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 13 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 14 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 15 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 16 Mario Super Sluggers Artwork 1 Mario Super Sluggers Logo Mario Super Sluggers Boxart Video: Mario Super Sluggers Trailer (4.5 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, July 15 2008 23:29 PM [Top] E3 2008: Wii Sports Resort Assets [ Nintendo ] Wii Sports Resort is a new collection of fun sports games that anyone can pick up and play. • This sequel to the popular Wii Sports makes use of the Wii MotionPlus accessory, which gives players the most responsive and realistic experience possible. The Wii MotionPlus accessory, which is included with Wii Sports Resort, plugs into the base of the Wii Remote controller and, combined with the accelerometer and sensor bar, provides an experience that gives players an even greater sense of immersion. • Just as with Wii Sports, people will love competing against friends and family. As the competition heats up, Wii Sports Resort is as much fun to watch as it is to play. First-time players will find it easy to pick up a Wii Remote and jump into the action. • Wii Sports Resort takes place on a tropical island. A wide range of activities will keep players coming back for one more round. Some sample activities include Sword Play, Power Cruising (racing a water scooter) and Disc Dog, which involves accurately tossing a disc to a cute, Mii-like dog. Images: Wii Sports Resort Screenshot 1 Wii Sports Resort Screenshot 2 Wii Sports Resort Screenshot 3 Wii Sports Resort Screenshot 4 Wii Sports Resort Screenshot 5 Wii Sports Resort Screenshot 6 Wii Sports Resort Screenshot 7 Wii Sports Resort Screenshot 8 Wii Sports Resort Screenshot 9 Wii Sports Resort Screenshot 10 Wii Sports Resort Screenshot 11 Wii Sports Resort Logo Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, July 15 2008 22:37 PM [Top] E3 2008: Wii Music Assets [ Nintendo ] Create a musical masterpiece with up to four players. Anyone can play the huge selection of instruments in Wii Music with simple motions—like strumming and drumming. • It’s easy to play improv jams. Musicians in your band jam by simply playing their instruments to the beat of a song or by improvising to their heart’s content. Play faster. Play slower. Skip a beat, or throw in 10 more. No matter what you do, Wii Music automatically transforms your improv stylings into great music. There are no mistakes—just playing for the pure joy of playing. • Wii controls immerse you in the music. You can play most of the 60-plus instruments in Wii Music using simple motions with the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers. Strum to play guitar, banjo and sitar. Drum to play jazz drums, congas and marching drums. Hammer away to play piano, vibraphone and marimba. Unlike most music games, Wii Music doesn’t make you use complex buttons. You only need to imitate playing the instrument. • Wii Music offers virtually endless ways to make music. You choose the song and instruments and decide whether to blaze through a rock take on classical songs, put a jazzy spin on folk tunes or transform Nintendo classics like the Super Mario Bros. theme into Latin-flavored numbers. The song list is only a takeoff point—it’s how you improvise with the songs that matters. • Send your band-jam recordings to Wii Friends who have Wii Music. They’ll see your Mii band members, your players’ improv styles and your instrument selections. They can watch your recordings, or play over parts of your song, then send their modified recording back to you. Improv jams can be sent back and forth over WiiConnect24 and changed again and again. Wii Music includes many other modes besides the main band jams, including several musical games and an enhanced video playback mode for recorded jams. • Play it again: Use the playback mode to see your jam recordings brought to life with dramatic camera angles. • Pick up the baton: Command an orchestra in the conducting game where you’ll wave the Wii Remote controller like a conductor’s baton to lead a Mii orchestra through orchestrated music. Make them play quickly, slowly, strongly or gently. • Ring a bell? Play a handbells game where you’ll swing your Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers to play your two handbells as part of a larger ensemble. Everyone on the team has a job to do: Play one of your notes only when the tune demands it. • An ear for music: Take a tone quiz that tests your musical ear by giving you challenges, like putting note-playing Miis in order from lowest to highest pitch. • Bang the drum: Play a virtual drum set in the drumming mode, the one mode in Wii Music that also uses the Wii Balance Board accessory (sold with Wii Fit). You’ll use the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers as drumsticks, and place both feet on the Wii Balance Board—which work as virtual pedals for the bass drum and hi-hat cymbal. Images: Wii Music Screenshot 1 Wii Music Screenshot 2 Wii Music Screenshot 3 Wii Music Screenshot 4 Wii Music Screenshot 5 Wii Music Screenshot 6 Wii Music Screenshot 7 Wii Music Screenshot 8 Wii Music Screenshot 9 Wii Music Screenshot 10 Wii Music Screenshot 11 Wii Music Screenshot 12 Wii Music Screenshot 13 Wii Music Logo Video: Wii Music Trailer (72.8 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, July 15 2008 22:18 PM [Top] E3 2008: Animal Crossing: City Folk Assets [ Nintendo ] If life were an endless vacation, what would you do? Go fishing, collect shells or watch fireworks with friends? Build a snowman, exchange presents with family or decorate your house for the holidays? Take a trip to the city, go on a shopping spree or visit friends from all over the globe? In Animal Crossing: City Folk, life moves at a relaxed pace, but the world brims with endless possibilities. • There’s always something new to do. In the living, breathing world of Animal Crossing: City Folk, days and seasons pass in real time, so there’s always something to discover. Catch fireflies in the summer, go trick-or-treating on Halloween or hunt for eggs on Bunny Day. If you’re in the mood for something a little faster paced, take a bus to a new urban city area that’s unique to Animal Crossing: City Folk. There you can catch a show at the theater or check out the sales at Gracie’s boutique. But if you don’t show your face back home for too long, your neighbors will miss you. • Up to four people from your household can live and work together to build the perfect town. Design clothes and patterns, write letters and post messages on the bulletin board for each other, or invite up to three friends to visit your town using Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. With the new WiiSpeak microphone, it’s like you’re all in the same room. The microphone sits atop the sensor bar and picks up the conversation of everyone in the room to encourage a more inclusive experience. • Get to know your neighbors. The heart of Animal Crossing: City Folk is building relationships with the animals in your town as well as with other players. Befriend your animal neighbors by exchanging letters, gifts and favors. Animals can also move from town to town, bringing their memories and stories from their old towns with them. And since animals are notoriously loose-lipped, they spill all the juicy details. • Express your personal style. Customize your town, your house and yourself by collecting bugs, fish, fossils, art, furniture, clothes and accessories. You can also go to the salon in the city to change your hairstyle and get a Mii™ makeover. Plus, if you design clothes in the tailor’s shop, animals will wear them and maybe even bring them to other towns. Images: Animal Crossing: City Folk Screenshot 1 Animal Crossing: City Folk Screenshot 2 Animal Crossing: City Folk Screenshot 3 Animal Crossing: City Folk Screenshot 4 Animal Crossing: City Folk Screenshot 5 Animal Crossing: City Folk Screenshot 6 Animal Crossing: City Folk Screenshot 7 Animal Crossing: City Folk Screenshot 8 Animal Crossing: City Folk Screenshot 9 Animal Crossing: City Folk Screenshot 10 Animal Crossing: City Folk Screenshot 11 Animal Crossing: City Folk Screenshot 12 Animal Crossing: City Folk Character Art 1 Animal Crossing: City Folk Character Art 2 Animal Crossing: City Folk Character Art 3 Animal Crossing: City Folk Character Art 4 Animal Crossing: City Folk Character Art 5 Animal Crossing: City Folk Character Art 6 Animal Crossing: City Folk Character Art 7 Animal Crossing: City Folk Character Art 8 Animal Crossing: City Folk Logo WiiSpeak Image 1 WiiSpeak Image 2 Video: Animal Crossing: City Folk Trailer (69.2 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, July 15 2008 22:04 PM [Top] E3 2008: Nintendo Redefines Control, Community [ Nintendo ] At the E3 Media & Business Summit today, Nintendo unveiled an enhancement for its iconic Wii Remote controller and new games that promise to further enrich and engage players around the world. These offerings build on Nintendo’s ongoing efforts to remove the barriers between expert and novice video game players, an approach that has been instrumental in creating a paradigm shift for the industry since the advent of the Nintendo DS portable system and the Wii home console. Wii Sports Resort is not just a simple sequel to one of the world’s most popular console games, Wii Sports. It is the first title to make use of another Nintendo advance, the Wii MotionPlus accessory, which plugs into the base of the Wii Remote controller to provide an incredibly realistic motion experience. Scheduled for release in spring 2009, Wii Sports Resort includes new game experiences such as Sword Play, Power Cruising on a water scooter and Disc Dog, along with the new Wii MotionPlus accessory and Wii Remote Jacket at no additional cost. The Wii MotionPlus enhances precision and player immersion for the Nintendo-pioneered motion-controlled gaming trend that has drawn millions of new people to the world of video games. This holiday season, Animal Crossing: City Folk lets players move into a fun community populated by quirky animals. Players can improve their community, chat with the locals or just spend the day fishing and collecting fossils. There is also the opportunity to catch a bus into the new urban city area. Though you’ll never see other players in the city, you can connect with them in new ways using WiiConnect24, such as bidding on your friends’ items at the auction house or visiting the Happy Room Academy headquarters to see the top-rated player house. Another new feature in Animal Crossing: City Folk is the ability to visit friends’ towns and chat with one another using the new WiiSpeak microphone. The WiiSpeak microphone is sold separately at an MSRP of $29.99 and allows Internet voice chat among Wii Friends – not just from person to person but from room to room. Wii Music makes it easy for people to jam to tunes, even if they don’t know anything about music. Wii Music transforms the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers into more than 60 different instruments, including a violin, steel drums, electric guitar – even a cowbell. Players strum, shake, tap and drum along to the music in a pressure-free musical playground where there are no mistakes. They can improvise on their arrangements by skipping a note – or adding 10. The music always sounds great, but it’s up to players to come up with creative arrangements that they can then send to friends and family who have Wii Music. Those Wii Friends can then put their own spin on the arrangement and send it back and forth over WiiConnect24. Wii Music will be available in the United States for the holidays. In the portable category, Nintendo DS remains on top. Nintendo DS has sold more than 20 million units in the United States and more than 70 million worldwide. Third-party publishers continue to take advantage of that installed base. Coming this winter exclusively to the Nintendo DS is Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars, a new entry in Rockstar Games’ award-winning and hugely successful Grand Theft Auto franchise. Activision’s exclusive Guitar Hero On Tour: Decades makes its anticipated debut this fall, as does a collection of wild and wonderful critters from Electronic Arts’ Spore Creatures. To view a video of Nintendo’s E3 2008 media briefing, please visit e3.nintendo.com. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, July 15 2008 14:01 PM [Top] E3 2008: Nintendo Media Briefing Liveblog [ Wii Café ] The conference starts with a video montage of smiling people enjoying Nintendo products. Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo's VP of Sales and Marketing, takes the stage. She goes on about how she's a mother, and her kids now love how she's a part of Nintendo. She says she's a cool mom, and tried snowboarding last year. This brings out snowboarder Shaun White, who demos Shaun White Snowboarding for the Wii using the Balance Board. Cammie tries it as well. It will launch for Wii at the end of the Year. Satoru Iwata now takes the stage. He says a paradigm shift is occurring within gaming. He says games that were previously selling for short times are selling longer, and games are becoming more casual. However, new Mario and Zelda titles are in the works for core gamers, as well as new games for the casual base. The goal is to destroy psychological barriers to gaming, and find more ways for people to get into gaming. Nintendo will be the pioneer. Now, a video with Katsuya Eguchi, creator of Animal Crossing. He explains how the game has pioneered the idea of an interactive world. He now shows off the Wii version of the game. It will use Miis and has a huge city to explore. It will have online co-op and...VOICE CHAT? Reggie now takes the stage. Animal Crossing for Wii will be out at the end of the year, with WiiSpeak voice chat. He says Wii has sold 10 million in America, but there's still millions more to sell. The Nintendo DS is the biggest-selling system worldwide, and at the end of the fiscal year, DS will sell more than 100 million. Software sales will go above 29% over next year. Nintendo is targeting females with DS, and games like Brain Age, Nintendogs, and New Super Mario Bros. have doubled. Wii sales have been consistent, and has actually increased, and Wii will become the best-selling console in America with the June NPD data. Wii software sales have been the same, as they have remained consistent throughout the console's lifetime. Nintendo has used both their standard stars, as well as new games such as Wii Sports and Wii Fit. 3rd parties are finding success as well, and 19 different third party games have sold more than 400,000 units, with 11 different publishers. Reggie says that the library will include established franchises, new core games, and new casual titles. The preview will show off three new games, each of which show off what the Wii can do. First off, Star Wars: The Clone Wars. The game features head-to-head lightsaber duels with the Wii Remote as the saber. It launches Holiday 08. Next is Rayman Raving Rabbids TV Party. It includes new minigames using the Wii Remote, Nunchuk, and Balance Board. It comes out fall '08. Last is Call of Duty: World at War. It uses the Wii Zapper and looks VERY good for the Wii Cammie now retakes the stage to talk about DS games. Female gamers have now make up almost half of DS owners...the DS appeal is universal. Guitar Hero: On Tour sold over 300,000 copies in its first week. A new version called Guitar Hero: On Tour Decades is on the way. Spore will be exclusive for DS this year for handhelds as well. Vicarious Visions presents Guitar Hero: On Tour Decades. The game will feature song-sharing, which allows players to share songs between Decades and the original On Tour. Spore: Creatures will be exclusive for DS, where you can create your own creatures. It allows for more player creativity. You can also share creatures with friends and create your own zoo. Cammie now reveals the new Pokémon Ranger, Shadows of Alnea. It comes out November 10th. GRAND THEFT AUTO IS COMING TO DS. Chinatown Wars comes out this winter! DS and air travel are coming together with airline companies. Also, Seattle Mariners games now feature the DS for ordering, trivia contests, and other aspects. The DS will be getting Cooking Navi, a portable cookbook, this November to help in the kitchen. The DS is becoming a natural companion for everyone. Reggie returns to show off Wii MotionPlus. It will enhance the Wii Remote to provide better advances. It is shown off with the Wii Sports sequel, Wii Sports Resort. The Wii MotionPlus will be packed in with Wii Sports Resort, and it will feature summer-based games. Cammie and Bill Trinen come out to demo three games. First to be demoed is Disc Dog, and the Wii MotionPlus exactly mimics Cammie's moves. Now, Reggie demos a Jet Ski game. It uses the Wii Remote and Nunchuk, and controls very well with the attachment. Last, Bill shows off a new lumberjack game. It uses a sword, and works very well. Now, players can joust each other with foam swords. Cammie wins. We have seen the birth of the Cammienator!!! Wii Sports Resort will be out next spring. Now, one more demo. Wii Music. We see a drumming demo first. It will be out this year and uses the standard Wii Remote and Nunchuk. Now, Miyamoto is out, using the Wii Remote as a saxophone. Players appear to be able to use the Wii Remotes together as a full band. Wii Music is a new experience, and it will not require buttons to play. It allows people who cannot read music or play instruments to enjoy playing music. You don't need to follow guides to play the songs, just hold the Wii Remote and plays the note based on Wii Remote and body movement. Players will be able to play over 50 different instruments just by moving their body. The left and right hand adjust the note and volume of the note. There's guitars, violins, and even taiko drums to use. The game will also have a complete drum simulator mode using the Balance Board. Robby Drums, a professional drummer demos it. Much like Miyamoto conducted an orchestra two years ago, you can do that in Wii Music as well. Also, you can conduct a choir and play note-matching games. You can also record videos and create your own music videos. Now, Miyamoto plays a song. You can play with up to four players simultaneously. Denise Kagler will play marimba, and several Treehouse members will play horns. Bill takes MOAR COWBELL. They play the Mario theme. Reggie retakes the stage. Gamers will become more enriched in their possibilities that the Wii will offer. Nintendo will bring more smiles to more faces. The Wii and the DS are not fads - it's inevitable that with paradigm shifts, imitation is right around the corner. It's time to create new advantages. Nintendo is creating the next evolution, and we will be shown the next steps. The conference ends. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, July 15 2008 10:13 AM [Top] Guitar Hero: On Tour [ Reviews ] Kevin discusses "all the small things" about the first handheld incarnation of the classic rhythm series. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Monday, July 14 2008 18:30 PM [Top] Apogee Brings Duke Nukem to Handhelds [ Apogee Software ] Apogee Software is back to re-establish itself as an innovative leader in interactive entertainment. Apogee is reviving some of its legacy catalogue of 30 releases as well as publishing all-new properties in collaboration with diverse creators and developers. Apogee is bringing the King of Action himself, Duke Nukem, to the handheld console market with three new missions, together called the Duke Nukem Trilogy. Apogee Software is producing the Trilogy under an exclusive license agreement with 3D Realms and MachineWorks Northwest LLC. The Trilogy is comprised of three episodes: Critical Mass, Chain Reaction, and Proving Grounds. Apogee pioneered the shareware game revolution in 1987 by inventing the concept of game demos, distributed online, which advertised the remaining episodes in a series. Before this time, game demos and episodic releases were unheard of. These concepts created by Apogee have become mainstream today. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 14 2008 12:52 PM [Top] E3 2008: Nintendo Unveils MotionPlus for Wii Remote [ Nintendo ] Nintendo's upcoming Wii MotionPlus accessory for the revolutionary Wii Remote controller again redefines game control, by more quickly and accurately reflecting motions in a 3-D space. The Wii MotionPlus accessory attaches to the end of the Wii Remote and, combined with the accelerometer and the sensor bar, allows for more comprehensive tracking of a player's arm position and orientation, providing players with an unmatched level of precision and immersion. Every slight movement players make with their wrist or arm is rendered identically in real time on the screen, providing a true 1:1 response in their game play. The Wii MotionPlus accessory reconfirms Nintendo's commitment to making games intuitive and accessible for everyone. Nintendo will reveal more details about the Wii MotionPlus accessory and other topics Tuesday morning at its E3 media briefing. Images: Wii MotionPlus Accessory Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 14 2008 12:29 PM [Top] Food, Ninjas, and Monkeys For WiiWare/VC E3 Week [ Nintendo ] WiiWare Major League Eating: The Game (Mastiff, 1-2 players, Rated E10 for Everyone 10 and Older-Crude Humor, 1,000 Wii Points): The ultimate chomp-off is about to begin. Grab your Wii Remote controller and dig into 12 different foods as you compete against the greatest major-league eaters in the world. This isn't just a race to stuff your face-you'll need strategy to master a smorgasbord of digestive attacks, defenses and counters. These include the Mega Burp, Gas Attack, Antacid and more. And don't forget to keep an eye on your Barf-O-Meter, because if the food hits the plate twice, you're out. Unlock more than 10 characters in single-player career mode, go gut-to-gut against your friends in versus mode, or compete online using Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. Online play supports friend codes, random matchmaking and leader boards. Virtual Console Donkey Kong 3 (NES, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points): Based on the third game in the enormously popular arcade series, Donkey Kong 3 introduces an exterminator named Stanley as he desperately tries to protect the flowers in his greenhouse from Donkey Kong. Armed only with a can of bug spray, Stanley must force Donkey Kong higher and higher into the greenhouse rafters until Donkey Kong is off the screen and the next stage is reached. Not surprisingly, Donkey Kong isn't going to move without a fight, so he sends wave after wave of bugs, bees and other creatures toward Stanley. Not only must Stanley repel the insects in order to save the flowers, but he'll also have to keep an eye out for projectiles thrown by Donkey Kong himself. If Stanley is good enough, he'll be able to grab a can of more powerful bug spray and really get Donkey Kong moving. It all adds up to frantic fun that anyone can enjoy. NINJA COMMANDO (NEOGEO, 1-2 players, Rated E10 for Everyone 10 and Older-Mild Language, Fantasy Violence, 900 Wii Points): NINJA COMMANDO is a vertically scrolling action game released by ADK in 1992. Players choose from among three ninjas-Joe, descended from the Koga ninja; Rayar, a woman who has learned the ways of the Iga ninja; and Ryu, descendant of the famous ninja Fuma Kotaro-as they pursue the merchant of death known as Spider, who plans to use a time machine to bring havoc to the world. The battle spans seven time periods, including the Stone Age, the Egyptian era and the Japanese Civil War era. Each hero features a variety of attack options in addition to their own normal attacks, including a deadly attack that inflicts damage upon all enemies on the screen, special ninja-arts attacks performed by inputting specific commands, and a powerful attack unleashed by taking on the "shape of the beast" when three scrolls have been collected. The game also supports two-player cooperative play, so you're welcome to bring a friend and enjoy taking on the evil Spider together. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 14 2008 12:15 PM [Top] Get Your Eat On this Monday [ Mastiff Games ] Video game publisher Mastiff announced today that the first videogame based on the exciting world of competitive eating will launch exclusively for WiiWare on July 14th, 2008. Major League Eating: The Game features the world's greatest gurgitory athletes competing across a variety of foods and venues. As featured on ESPN during the Nathan's Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest, NY, MLE: The Game is built much like a classic fighting simulation, with offensive attacks and defensive counter moves, MLE: The Game requires players to master a smorgasbord of weapons including bites, burps, belches, mustard gas and jalapeño flames while cramming and chewing food at a world-class pace. It's not for the faint of heart, the slow of reflex, or those with an overly strong aversion to a Technicolor reversal of fortune. Major League Eating: The Game uses the Wii Remote to simulate a variety of eating techniques including the cram, toss, and 'typewriter.' Burp-offs and Hot Potato challenges during the contests keep the competition intense and eaters on their toes. Major League Eating: The Game is for one or two players, offers online play and a leader board. MLE: The Game also features eleven of the best-known professional eaters in the world including Takeru Kobayashi, the Japanese eating phenomenon, and American Joey Chestnut, current champion of the world together with eaters such as Tim 'Eater X' Janus, Patrick 'Deep Dish' Bertoletti, Crazy Legs Conti, Sonya 'The Black Widow' Thomas, and 'The Lovely' Juliet Lee. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Friday, July 11 2008 19:51 PM [Top] The Sims Walks With The Animals, Talks With The Animals [ NGamer ] NGamer has produced a major world exclusive, as it has been revealed that Electronic Arts is set to debut another Nintendo-exclusive installment in its popular Sim franchise. Sim Animals is EA's take on Microsoft's own popular Viva Pinata series, where players have control over an entire ecosystem, caring for the plants and animals within. Players will be charged with controlling the land's pollution levels, providing enough food and vegetation, and gaining the trust of the animals within. In time, players can build relations between animals so they can start families. There will be over 25 animal and 50 plant specimens, and the game will also feature four-player multiplayer. Sim Animals will release for both Wii and Nintendo DS in 2009. Expect the first details at E3 2009. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 11 2008 16:03 PM [Top] Marvelous and XSEED Announce E3 Lineup [ XSEED Games ] Marvelous Entertainment USA and XSEED Games today announced its E3 plans which include a stellar line up of games for both Nintendo platforms, the Nintendo DS and Wii. Both companies will display their portfolio of upcoming titles at E3 2008 which will be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center from July 15th – 17th. Games being shown under the Marvelous and XSEED Games partnership are: Avalon Code DS From the creative minds behind Rune Factory and Harvest Moon with the development studio responsible for the Final Fantasy III and Final Fantasy IV DS remakes comes Avalon Code, an action RPG boasting incredible graphics, a deep and engrossing story, and innovative game play mechanics. Using the main character’s ‘Book of Prophecy’, players can modify the rules of engagement during battle as well as weapon and monster attributes. The player even has control over the story as it changes depending on which gender the player chooses to play as, enhancing the ability to immerse themselves into the story. Avalon Code DS is scheduled for release Q1 2009. The game will be published in Europe by Rising Star Games, a subsidiary of Marvelous Entertainment. Rune Factory: Frontier Wii From the creators of Harvest Moon and Rune Factory for the DS comes the first installment of Rune Factory for a home console. Developed exclusively for Wii, Rune Factory: Frontier features stunning graphics and takes full advantage of the Wii’s unique controls to fully immerse players in the Rune Factory universe. Rune Factory: Frontier incorporates an open-ended structure that allows players to choose the type of game they wish to experience. Whether it’s growing crops, expanding the town, fighting (or befriending) monsters or even falling in love, the experience is unique to each player. Rune Factory: Frontier Wii is scheduled for release Q1 2009. The game will be published in Europe by Rising Star Games, a subsidiary of Marvelous Entertainment. LITTLE KING’S STORY Wii Little King’s Story has an art style that is very ‘story-book’ in look and a magical fairy tale quality that will intrigue and delight gamers. 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; enlisting 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, while also granting the requests of townspeople at whim. The game transforms the Wii Remote to a royal scepter and offers players the chance to be the best king in the world! Little King’s Story Wii is scheduled for release Winter 2008. The game will be published in Europe by Rising Star Games, a subsidiary of Marvelous Entertainment. Separately, XSEED Games will unveil the company’s first official support of the Nintendo DS with three titles: Populous DS Based on the original Populous PC classic from Electronic Arts, Populous DS brings a re-imagination of the classic game, which pioneered the God simulation genre. Featuring touch-screen controls that utilize the dual-screens, players manipulate 5 elementally-imbued gods, each with their own unique miracles, within an extensive single-player campaign. Within the multiplayer wireless mode, up to 4 players can unleash earthquakes, tidal waves and raging volcanoes onto rival players’ lands. Populous DS is scheduled for release Fall 2008. The game will be published in Europe by Rising Star Games*, a subsidiary of Marvelous Entertainment. KORG DS-10 Designed after the famous KORG MS-10 music synthesizer, KORG DS-10 is a music-creation program for professional and aspiring musicians alike. The sound sources in the KORG DS-10 come from KORG, one of the world’s top musical instrument producers, and no effort was spared in the replication of creating high-quality sounds. The Nintendo DS’s touch-screen controls are utilized to the fullest to provide an authentic feel and operability across a dual-screen layout that is unsurpassed in portable music creation. A 6-track/16-step sequencer enables precise control and provides a wide range of musical possibilities, and up to eight DS units can be linked via wireless connection to play together or to exchange sounds and songs. KORG DS-10 is scheduled for release Fall 2008. Retro Game Challenge An original game based on the popular Japanese GAME CENTER CX TV series, Retro Game Challenge reinvents how classic games are played. Featuring a story-driven progression, players complete short challenges in a wide-variety of fictional retro-games. Specific challenges in shooting, racing, action and even an epic role-playing game are integrated into the story, while the in-game magazines offer cheat codes as well as fake 80’s news stories paying tribute to the rich history of the gaming industry. Released to raving reviews as Game Center CX: Arino’s Challenge in Japan, the game received a Gold Award from Famitsu with a 33/40 review score. Retro Game Challenge is scheduled for release Winter 2008. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 11 2008 15:55 PM [Top] Buffy Slays Again on DS [ 505 Games ] 505 Games today announced a deal with Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising to unleash an official new game based on the world-famous Buffy the Vampire Slayer franchise, exclusively for the Nintendo DS. Currently under development by Romanian studio Beast, Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Sacrifice combines third-person and first-person gameplay to create an experience like nothing else on Nintendo DS. The stakes are high for players as they take on the role of Buffy to seal the re-opened Hellmouth in an original story penned by Rob Deshotel, a writer from the TV series. This action-packed 3D survival horror game sees Buffy using a range of special weapons, powerful spells and martial arts to take out vicious vampires and demons. In addition to these enemies, players also come across recognisable characters from the show, including Spike, Angel, the Master, the First Evil, Caleb and, of course, the Scooby Gang. Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Sacrifice will be available exclusively throughout Europe on Nintendo DS November 2008. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 11 2008 15:50 PM [Top] Report: Punch Out!! Wii To Be Revealed at E3 [ NGamer ] European gaming mag NGamer reportedly has acquired some huge news in regards to the biggest mystery in gaming right now: What the hell Nintendo plans to unveil at E3. The magazine reports that a revival of the classic NES franchise Punch-Out!! is on the way for Wii, and will use both the Wii Remote and Nunchuk (for punching) and the Wii Balance Board (for ducking and dodging). In addition, the mag reveals more details on what is perhaps the one sure thing about Nintendo's E3 press conference, the debut of Animal Crossing for Wii. The game will apparently not have Massively Multiplayer aspects (as has been rumored), but will make heavy use of Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection for online meetups and trading. In addition, NGamer reports several other games will be at the event, including a possible localization of Daigasso! Band Brothers DX for DS and the long-awaited return of Disaster: Day of Crisis. To see if this holds true, stay tuned for Wii Café's coverage of E3 2008, starting with Nintendo's press conference next Tuesday. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 11 2008 15:47 PM [Top] First Fact Sheet for James Bond: Quantum of Solace [ Activision ] James Bond is back to settle the score in Quantum of Solace: The Game. Introducing a more lethal and cunningly efficient Bond, the game blends intense first-person action with a unique third-person cover combat system that allows players to truly feel what it is like to be the ultimate secret agent as they use their stealth, precision shooting and lethal combat skills to progress through missions. Seamlessly blending the heart-pounding action and excitement of the upcoming “Quantum of Solace” feature film with the “Casino Royale” movie, the title propels players into the cinematic experience of international espionage. Based on the renowned Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare game engine that has been specifically engineered to immerse players in the Bond universe, Quantum of Solace: The Game delivers superior high-definition graphics, reactive AI and visually stunning locations inspired by locales portrayed in the films. • Be the New Bond – Quantum of Solace: The Game marks the first time players can become the dangerous and cunning Bond as portrayed by Daniel Craig in “Quantum of Solace” and “Casino Royale.” • Combat Variety – From silent take downs and sneaking through confined spaces, to one-on-one shoot outs and large scale battles, players experience a variety of gameplay that challenges them to think through situations and choose how they progress, whether it’s through covert means or confronting enemies in full force. • Advanced combat and Realistic AI – Players engage in both first-person and third-person gameplay that allows gamers to be Bond in unscripted battles against the world’s most evil villains and mercenaries. • Cinematic Appeal – Filled with armed combat, massive explosions and vertigo-inducing chases, gamers are immersed in an authentic Bond universe and drawn into epic movie moments with theatrical camera angles, split screen effects, picture-in-picture sequences, and amazing environments inspired by real world locations such as Montenegro, Venice, Bolivia and Austria. • Unparalleled Bond Multiplayer Experience – Bringing James Bond to next-gen consoles for the first time, gamers now have the ability to battle online in a variety of modes. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 11 2008 9:14 AM [Top] Ubisoft Opens Hell's Kitchen [ Ubisoft ] Today Ubisoft announced that it will publish Hell’s Kitchen: The Video Game, for Wii and Nintendo DS. Developed by Ludia, Hell’s Kitchen: The Video Game is based on the U.S. hit FOX television program from Granada America featuring world-renowned Chef Gordon Ramsay. The game will allow players to experience the show’s high-pressure kitchen and dining room challenges as a faithfully rendered 3D Chef Ramsay watches their every move. After executing the three phases of an order – preparation, cooking and service – Chef Gordon Ramsay will score each meal. As they progress through the game, players will be rewarded with access to recipes from Chef Ramsay’s own repertoire. Hell’s Kitchen: The Video Game will be released worldwide September 2008. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 11 2008 1:52 AM [Top] D3Publisher Announces E3 Lineup [ D3Publisher ] D3Publisher will showcase titles for gamers of all ages at this year’s E3 Media & Business Summit, taking place at the Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, California from July 15-17, 2008. D3Publisher’s Game Line-Up Includes: Onechanbara: Bikini Zombie Slayers – Onechanbara is the ultimate evolution in a third-person blood-splattering hack-and-slash videogame. Players take on the role of the beautiful but deadly Aya or her little sister Saki, both of whom will need to put their legendary samurai skills to the test in order to battle legions of zombies terrorizing their city. Every person met and enemy battled gets the sisters closer to understanding who or what is behind the zombie outbreak and putting an end to it. Onechanbara: Bikini Zombie Slayers is anticipated for release in Q1 2009 on Wii. NARUTO: Clash of Ninja Revolution 2 – TOMY Corporation and D3Publisher’s highly anticipated NARUTO: Clash of Ninja Revolution 2 offers an all-new original storyline created for the North American audience and features the largest character roster yet for the Clash of Ninja series. The latest iteration of the hit fighting game represents a huge progression from the previous game, including never-before-seen modes, improved visual presentation, and polished gameplay mechanics. The only four-player NARUTO fighting game series available, NARUTO: Clash of Ninja Revolution 2 for the Wii home video game console is anticipated for release this fall 2008. Puzzle Quest: Galactrix – A rich new addition to the beloved Puzzle Quest universe, Puzzle Quest: Galactrix incorporates a powerful blend of puzzle, strategy and RPG gameplay elements, into an all-new futuristic, science-fiction setting. Offering an innovative new hexagonal puzzle board for a wide range of strategic depth, a rich storyline and fresh gameplay elements, Puzzle Quest: Galactrix is a captivating new adventure to explore and conquer in Q1 2009 on Nintendo DS. BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE The Game – Based on Cartoon Network’s hit series, BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE The Game is the only console videogame allowing players to command and experience the adventures of the ALIEN FORCE team. Gamers will help Ben take the DNA-scrambling Omnitrix out of retirement and become the hero as they transform into eight different playable characters—including cousin Gwen, enemy-turned-ally Kevin and five of Ben’s brand new alien forms to utilize their all-new super powers and defeat the intergalactic invaders! BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE The Game is a fast-paced, 3D, action adventure offering an unlimited combo system and engaging puzzles and challenges, coming to Wii and Nintendo DS this fall 2008. NARUTO: Path of the Ninja 2 – TOMY Corporation and D3Publisher’s NARUTO: Path of the Ninja 2 is the latest in the popular RPG videogame series offering a completely original storyline, expanded character roster featuring 30 playable characters and improvements to the battle system that will give players more options than ever before as they make use of the newly-added Squad Leader and Ninja Tag systems. For those who want to test their mettle against fellow ninja across North America, NARUTO: Path of the Ninja 2 will also provide the opportunity to earn points and special ninja cards as players prove their strength over Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. NARUTO: Path of the Ninja 2 is anticipated for release on Nintendo DS this September 2008. Bangai-O Spirits – Created by revered Japanese developer TREASURE, Bangai-O Spirits is a re-imagination of their hit 90s DreamCast game Bangai-O. The twitch-fest shooter gameplay includes more than 160 levels, punishing supermoves, exclusive content for the Western version, and a sensory overload of fireworks onscreen. Bangai-O Spirits boasts a powerful level editor tool, local wireless multiplayer for up to four players and the pioneering new Sound Load technology. Bangai-O Spirits blasts into retail stores August 12, 2008 exclusively for Nintendo DS. Shaun the Sheep – The only handheld videogame based on the award-winning TV show from Aardman Animation, Shaun the Sheep allows players to assume the role of the lovable sheep, Shaun, as he tries to find the rest of the flock before the Farmer arrives home. Designed exclusively for the Nintendo DS, Shaun the Sheep will feature the fan-favorite characters, items, and locations from the popular stop-motion animated series on the Disney Channel, as well as original content for all new experiences with Shaun. Shaun the Sheep flocks to retail stores on September 23, 2008. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 11 2008 1:45 AM [Top] First Mega Man 9 Trailer [ IGN Wii ] IGN has posted the very first trailer to the most eagerly-anticipated WiiWare title of them all, Capcom's upcoming Mega Man 9. Along with the trailer come new details that Capcom will be releasing the first two games in the lucrative franchise onto the Wii's Virtual Console service "soon". However, with the announcement comes some bad news, as it has been confirmed that Mega Man 9 will be coming to not only WiiWare, but Sony's PlayStation Network and Microsoft's Xbox Live Arcade as well. Still, despite the lack of exclusivity, you better believe this game will be no less hyped. Check out the stunning trailer below. Video: Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 11 2008 1:07 AM [Top] SouthPeak Games E3 Lineup [ SouthPeak Games ] SouthPeak today announced its lineup for the upcoming E3 Media & Business Summit in Los Angeles July 15-17, 2008. Located at Booth 426, SouthPeak will showcase its Fall titles with extensive hands-on and producer-led demos, including presentations by Ninjatown creator Shawn Smith. The following is a list of titles that will be at the show: Big Bang Mini (Nintendo DS – January 2009) This addictive fast paced shoot’em up puts a flashy new spin on classic arcade gameplay. Players are challenged to navigate their ship through a brilliant array of highly stylized levels as they launch a bevy of fireworks at waves of dynamic enemies. Players will use the stylus to create their own fireworks displays and combo attacks in order to defeat waves of challenging enemies. Versus play, online rankings, and other gameplay modes only add to the chaos that ensues. Brave: A Warriors Tale (Wii – Fall 2008) Set many, many moons after Shaman’s Challenge, the game plays as a series of flashbacks in which a now elderly Brave describes the events of his life. Between the warrior’s tales of his youth, the player takes control of Courage, a young boy who takes lessons from his elder’s experiences to stop the current threat to their village. The game provides players expansive exploration and in-game interactivity on their quest to defeat the sources of evil, continuously offering a significant challenge to players as they advance through a world of untamed wilderness. Brave is able to transform into various animals, track prey, and battle enemies that stand in his way with bows and arrows, tomahawks and a variety of ancient powers. Brave: Shaman’s Challenge (Nintendo DS – September 2008) Taking place in Native American lands of long ago, Brave: Shaman’s Challenge follows a young boy named Brave in his quest to protect everything he holds dear. He alone stands against a group of evil Shaman dead set on reviving their old master; the Wendigo. Brave: Shaman’s Challenge features a cast of intriguing characters, a diverse set of amazing magic spells, a richly developed game world, and more puzzles than you can shake a shaman’s stick at! Igor The Game (Wii & Nintendo DS – September 2008) The game is based on the highly anticipated animated movie created by Exodus Film Group in cooperation with The Weinstein Company. 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. 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. Ninjatown (Nintendo DS – October 2008) A diverse group of fun-loving Ninjas populate the vibrant yet peaceful place known as Ninjatown. However, after the eruption of a nearby volcano, Ninjatown is attacked by hordes of sinister enemies lead by Mr. Demon, who, for reasons unknown, is bent on destruction. The game is played from the top down, where the player uses the stylus to strategically place Ninjas to defend each area. The action is non-stop! Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 11 2008 0:59 AM [Top] Tecmo Announces E3 Linuep - SPRay Revealed [ Tecmo ] TECMO BOWL: KICKOFF (Nintendo DS / September 2008) Based on the most popular Tecmo Super Bowl, Tecmo Bowl: Kickoff will deliver to long time fans and newcomers easy to employ controls, fun, huge plays and exciting cut-scenes. The classic, over-the-top, all-American football game enables players of all levels to engage in a fun filled, fast paced, arcade style of football. ROBOCALYPSE (Nintendo DS / October 2008) Developed by Vogster Entertainment, Robocalypse is an innovative, new, real-time strategy game for the Nintendo DS. Featuring robotic armies equipped with unique weaponry, Robocalypse offers deep strategic warfare and a twist of humor. A technological breakthrough for the Nintendo DS, Robocalypse features over 50 A.I. driven units with advanced distributed path-finding, dynamic music and stunning 3D particle effects. Supporting these advancements is a hilarious storyline penned by Jay Lender, a writer and director for the acclaimed cartoon series SpongeBob Squarepants, and Micah Wright, known for his writing contributions across multiple mediums. SPRAY™ (Wii / Holiday 2008) Tecmo has signed an agreement with Eko Software for the exclusive North American publishing rights to SPRay, an action-adventure game developed for the Wii that features a unique gameplay mechanic involving the use of several liquids that are sprayed onto the game universe. Players will soak in the action in SPRay by playing a spirited Prince named Ray who must save his village from a banished evil Queen who’s returned to capture and enslave the villagers. After donning a magic crown which summons two liquid spraying spirits, he sets out to defeat the evil Queen and her army of anti-matter soldiers. Skillfully use the “angelic” and “wicked” spirits to spray water, oil, goo, and other liquids on enemies and surfaces to solve puzzles and wipe out evil! Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 11 2008 0:51 AM [Top] Luminous Arc II Announced [ Atlus ] Atlus sent us this e-mail, announcing that Luminous Arc II will be out for DS later this year. Check it out below. "Luminous Arc 2 will be out for Nintendo DS™ this holiday season! We know, we know… We’re on a roll. Sporting a more refined interface, rebalanced strategy features, responsive touch controls, and many more improvements, Luminous Arc 2 provides a gaming experience that builds upon the success of the original in every way. Also, every single copy of the game will include a soundtrack CD, all packaged together in a lovely (slightly) oversized box." Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 11 2008 0:41 AM [Top] Wii Gets Brave [ SouthPeak Games ] SouthPeak Games announced today it is working in conjunction with Evolved Games to publish and distribute Brave: A Warrior’s Tale for Wii worldwide this autumn. Developed by Collision Games, Brave: A Warrior’s Tale, is an expanded reinvention of the original PlayStation 2 computer and entertainment system game Brave. Brave: A Warrior’s Tale brings players expansive exploration and in-game interactivity on their quest to protect their tribe from the sources of evil, continuously offering a significant challenge to players as they advance through a world of untamed wilderness. Embracing his inner spirit, Brave is able to communicate as well as embody various animals and battle enemies that stand in his way. Brave: A Warrior’s Tale is loaded with updated features and unlockable content which can be earned throughout the game. The game has been revamped visually and mechanically and features an exciting storyline that will grab hold of players and never let go. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, July 10 2008 22:56 PM [Top] Midway Announces E3 2008 Lineup [ Midway ] Here's the games Midway will be showing off for the Wii and Nintendo DS coming up at E3: TNA iMPACT! (Wii, September 2008) - TNA iMPACT! is the exclusive Total Nonstop Action wrestling game based on the top-rated weekly television show, "TNA Impact!" Choose the wrestling style, custom move set and clothing to construct the ultimate champion. TNA drenches the player in moves and match types that allow amazing acrobatic and aerial feats along with the bone-jarring crush of hard-hitting impacts. The game also features top wrestling talent such as Kurt Angle, Jeff Jarrett, Rhino, Samoa Joe, AJ Styles, Sting, Christian Cage, Abyss and more to deliver all of the excitement and action of the television show! Game Party 2 (Wii, November 2008) -- With 11 games in all, Game Party 2 for the Nintendo Wii includes fun to play games that will provide hours of enjoyment with friends and family. Game Party 2 features new games like Bean Bag Toss, Horseshoes, Lawn Darts, Puck Bowling and more. Each game, including classics like Skill Ball, Darts and Hoop Shoot has exciting new features like four player mode, customizable characters and tournament play, making Game Party 2 the ultimate party game for all ages and skill levels. Touchmaster 2 (Nintendo DS, September 2008) -- TouchMaster 2 returns with a collection of 20 new exciting card, action, strategy and puzzle games with some of your favorite classic games from back in the day. For the gamer and non-gamer alike, TouchMaster 2 offers pick up and play, addictively fun, mini-games that everyone will enjoy. Kill some time by playing a quick round to beat your high-score or find some real competition against other players. TouchMaster 2, the personal arcade that fits snug in the palm of your hands. Mechanic Master (Nintendo DS, September 2008) -- With over 100 levels! Mechanic Master uses the stylus as a weapon to rid the Earth of alien invaders that have scattered across the planet. Become the ultimate Master of Mechanics by creating crazy contraptions to free humans, keep the mechanics in motion and defeat those pesky foes. Test your skills. Creative-thinking is key to clearing the level. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, July 10 2008 8:48 AM [Top] This Week's Famitsu News [ Famitsu ] The latest issue of Famitsu has brought several new games to light, all set for Nintendo consoles. First off, Square-Enix continues their strong Nintendo support, with two new games in their Chocobo's Dungeon series. Final Fantasy Fables: Chocobo Tales: The Witch, the Girl and the Five Heroes for Wii and Final Fantasy Fables: Chocobo’s Dungeon DS for Nintendo DS should both be released for the console later this year. Next up comes a game actually from Nintendo itself. Captain Rainbow comes from Skip, the developers of the GameCube cult classic Chibi-Robo, and features a young man, Nick, who washes upon the shore of an island wearing a mysterious belt. Using the belt, he can transform into the Power Rangers-esque hero Captain Rainbow, fighting enemies with a heavy comic book-style. In all, the game looks heavily reminiscent of 2003's Viewtiful Joe, with a similar visual style. In addition, several Nintendo characters will make appearances, such as Birdo, the unnamed player character from NES Open Tournament Golf, and Hikari from the Japan-only adventure game Shin Onigashima. Finally, Konami has unveiled a new RPG for the Nintendo DS entitled Tongariboushi and the 365 Days of Magic. The game looks very similar to Nintendo's own Animal Crossing franchise, with a similar town-based premise and character designs. In addition, the magazine features new screens for both Chrono Trigger DS and Tales of Hearts. Check out all the scans below. Images: Captain Rainbow Famitsu Scan Tongariboushi and the 365 Days of Magic Famitsu Scan Tales of Hearts Famitsu Scan Chrono Trigger DS Famitsu Scan 1 Chrono Trigger DS Famitsu Scan 2 Chrono Trigger DS Famitsu Scan 3 Chrono Trigger DS Famitsu Scan 4 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, July 10 2008 1:22 AM [Top] Majesco Announces E3 Lineup - Entirely Nintendo Exclusives! [ Majesco ] Third party developer Majesco today revealed their lineup of E3 software, and amazingly, it consists entirely of games made exclusively for Nintendo systems, Wii and DS. Check it out: Major Minor's Majestic March Release date: Holiday 2008 Platform: Wii Designed exclusively for Wii, Major Minor's Majestic March marks the return of the creative team behind the renowned PaRappa the Rapper franchise-legendary game designer and multimedia musician Masaya Matsuura and famed New York artist Rodney Alan Greenblat. This innovative rhythm-based music game turns the Wii Remote into a "magic" baton that bandleader Major Minor uses to keep tempo, recruit new band members and pick up valuable items. Players can add up to 15 different instruments to their dynamic procession-including brass, woodwinds, and percussion-to alter its composition and resulting performance. Cooking Mama World Kitchen Release Date: Holiday 2008 Platform: Wii The best-selling, award-winning cooking franchise returns! In Cooking Mama World Kitchen, Mama brings a lot more to the table, including all new 3D graphics, all new recipes from parfait to shrimp au gratin, comedic kitchen mini-games, new gameplay modes and much more. Cook with Mama and her friends by using the Wii Remote as your universal cooking utensil in this fun, family-friendly sequel to last year's Cooking Mama Cook Off. Our House Release Date: Q1 2009 Platform: Wii Our House is the only game that lets players build and remodel their homes into their own unique customized creations. Players use their Wii Remote to hammer, saw, paint, tile and much more as they assemble and upgrade their family dwelling. Compete with friends in this fast-paced, four-player, house-building game and then share creations with others via a WiiConnect24 community-building feature. If you dream it, you can build it! Zoo Hospital Release Date: September 2008 Platform: Wii Zoo Hospital is the first game of its kind on Wii that lets players experience a veterinarian's job. Players use the Wii Remote in surgical procedures to eliminate parasitic pests, perform dentistry, and remove foreign bodies like gallstones to restore the health of 48 ailing zoo mammals, reptiles and birds. Soothing and feeding each animal while following up on post surgical patients in their enclosures is as important as precise operations, since happy, healthy animals increase the Zoo Rating which in turn affects the number of visitors patronizing the zoo. AWAY Shuffle Dungeon Release Date: Fall 2008 Platform: Nintendo DS Featuring creative contributions from RPG creator Hironobu Sakaguchi, character designer Naoto Oshima and composer Nobuo Uematsu, AWAY Shuffle Dungeon for Nintendo DS is a groundbreaking role playing saga co-developed by Mistwalker and AQ Interactive. Players take control of the young hero "Sword," the sole resident left of the once booming Webb Village, who must rescue as many kidnapped townsfolk as possible from a mysterious unknown that has trapped them within underground dungeons. Saved villagers will lend assistance to Sword's quest, as will the magical 'Fupongs' and dungeon treasure he finds that lets him shop in the village specialty stores for armor, weapons, health, medical aid and more. Wonder World Amusement Park Release Date: Holiday 2008 Platform: Nintendo DS In Wonder World Amusement Park, players experience the thrill of a day at the park anytime and anywhere! Using the Touch Screen, players will toss, drive, shoot, whack, fish and spin in 30 different mini-games scattered throughout six themed zones: Carnival, Spookyville, Prehistoric, Pirate, Fairy Tale and Space. Players can also unlock six interactive rides through gameplay or challenge a friend via local Wi-Fi multiplayer. Babysitting Mania Release Date: September 2008 Platform: DS Based on the hit online simulation, Babysitting Mania lets players progress through more than 100 levels of fast-paced, overlapping challenges as they feed, entertain and clean up after unruly kids in 20 chaotic houses. Players use the Touch Screen to manage every aspect of the household with speed and precision, from strategically employing "timeouts" to overseeing bonus birthday party levels that add neighborhood party guests to the mania. Marker Man Adventures Release Date: November 2008 Platform: DS Guide loveable stick figure, Marker Man, through hundreds of physics-based puzzles using the stylus as a creative tool to draw simple machines that help him safely bring Doodle Dog home. Players will collect power-ups, discover hidden areas and use logic to progress through a scrolling world of various themes. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, July 9 2008 20:04 PM [Top] Square Enix Announces E3 2008 Lineup [ Square Enix ] Square Enix Ltd., the publisher of Square Enix interactive entertainment products in Europe and other PAL territories, and Square Enix, Inc. the publisher of Square Enix interactive entertainment products in North America, announced their extensive line-up for the E3 Media & Business Summit today, confirming an impressive array of games ranging from re-mastered classics to brand-new IP’s CHRONO TRIGGER Genre: RPG PAL Release: TBC Re-mastered exclusively for Nintendo DS, CHRONO TRIGGER is a true classic that has set the benchmark for the RPG genre. This all-new edition of the game contains all the classic essence of the original release while introducing the portability, dual-screen presentation and Touch-Screen functionality of Nintendo DS, taking players back in time to re-experience the epic RPG that started it all. DRAGON QUEST: Chapters of the Chosen Genre: RPG PAL Release Date: September 2008 For the first time, a fully-fledged DRAGON QUEST adventure arrives on Nintendo DS with DRAGON QUEST: The Chapters of the Chosen. Experience an adventure of epic proportions, presented through multiple character perspectives. While retaining the classic look and feel of the original release, this remake breathes new life into a much-loved entry in the DRAGON QUEST series with 3D graphics, dual screen presentation and newly animated monsters. FINAL FANTASY IV Genre: RPG PAL Release Date: TBA The latest entry in the franchise that has shipped 85 million copies worldwide*, FINAL FANTASY IV for Nintendo DS features beautiful, fully 3D cut-scenes with voiceovers, capturing the emotional drama that first touched the hearts of fans over fifteen years ago. The new ability system and added DS functionality introduce a fresh experience to both new and returning FINAL FANTASY IV fans. With a storyline that sets the stage for all subsequent FINAL FANTASY titles, FINAL FANTASY IV is a must-play for those looking to jump into the best-selling RPG franchise in the world. EXIT DS Genre: Action Puzzle PAL Release: TBC The stylish and inventive action puzzle game comes to Nintendo DS! As professional escape artist Mr.Esc, players must manoeuvre through burning buildings and sinking ships as they dodge disaster and save survivors along the way. EXIT DS makes a smooth return to the portable scene with all-new Touch-Screen functionality and over 100 stages to solve. The Legend of Kage 2 Genre: Action PAL Release: TBC The hit arcade game is back! The thrilling ninja action of The Legend of Kage 2 takes over both Nintendo DS screens, fully utilizing the dual-screen presentation and scrolling to draw players into a dynamic world filled with exhilarating midair combat. With rich, elaborate stages and a compelling story that follows the tale of two protagonists, The Legend of Kage 2 breathes renewed excitement into the classic action adventure experience. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 9 2008 17:11 PM [Top] Activison Announces New Brand for Wii [ Activision ] Activision today unveiled a new consumer initiative to expand the company’s Wii portfolio this Fall. Dubbed “Wee 1ST”, the brand highlights the company’s games that were developed specifically with the Wii in mind. With the Wii on track to be the leading platform by Christmas, the company’s move to expand its offering has been in the works for more than a year. The first titles under the “Wee 1ST” brand include Little League World Series 2008, Rapala Fishing Frenzy and Dancing with the Stars: Get Your Dance On. More games will be announced in the upcoming weeks, all of which will hit shelves this holiday season. The “Wee 1ST” brand is supported by a national television and print advertising campaign scheduled to kick off this fall. New branding is featured on the front of all boxes and at retail locations nationwide. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 9 2008 17:02 PM [Top] Rock Band 2 Official [ Electronic Arts ] Start A Band, Rock The World! Developed by Harmonix, the world’s premier music videogame company, and published by MTV Games, Rock Band 2 is the next evolution of the groundbreaking music platform that forever changed the face of music videogames. Rock Band 2 builds upon the original, challenging players to put together a band and tour for fame and fortune while learning to master lead/bass guitar, drums and vocals, and raises the bar to include an entirely new level of depth, connectivity, authenticity and exhilarating features. Rock Band 2 will feature more than 80 tracks on disc – but it doesn’t stop there. Players will have access to all DLC tracks, packs and albums released to date as well as future DLC releases; that’s more than 200 song choices and counting. The music in Rock Band 2 features all master recordings and spans all genres of rock from punk, metal and alternative to classic and southern rock. Rock Band 2 will be released on the Nintendo Wii system later this year. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 9 2008 16:38 PM [Top] New Castlevania Judgment Details and Screens [ Konami ] Konami is to bring its world-famous Castlevania series to Nintendo Wii in the form of Castlevania Judgment, an all-new action title featuring a wealth of characters from the series’ 22-year history. Created by series creator Koji ‘IGA’ Igarashi, Castlevania Judgment is a roving fighting game utilising heroes and villains from the Castlevania universe. The fighting game has been designed specifically for the Wii, and uses the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers to offer a stunning level of control over the central heroes. Taking centre stage within a series of 3D locations inspired by previous Castlevania games, the controllers are used to slash, stab and employ a series of attacks against the assorted minions of Dracula. Each of the beautifully-realised stages are fully interactive, and as the player battles their way through, various elements can be picked up, thrown, or used against the forces of evil – players can even make use of monsters on the field, while traps can also be set by specific characters. Castlevania Judgment also makes use of the Wii’s Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing players to fight with online friends in one-on-one settings, while the game also enjoys connectivity with Igarashi’s forthcoming Nintendo DS title Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia, allowing users to unlock a very surprising bonus. Featuring visuals from acclaimed artist Takeshi Obata, Castlevania Judgment sees the series’ famed Belmont clan enter fresh territory as their fighting skills are extended for this all-new challenge. With a huge cast of well-known monsters and undead adversaries, Castlevania Judgment marks a new chapter in the story of one of gaming’s most enduring series. Images: Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 1 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 2 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 3 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 4 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 5 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 6 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 7 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 8 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 9 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 10 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 11 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 12 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 13 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 14 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 15 Castlevania Judgment Screenshot 16 Castlevania Judgment Character Art 1 Castlevania Judgment Character Art 2 Castlevania Judgment Character Art 3 Castlevania Judgment Character Art 4 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 9 2008 15:32 PM [Top] Star Wars Battlefront III Heading to Wii and DS? [ Amazon ] Online shopping giant Amazon.com has added listings (which have since been pulled down) for the previously unannounced Star Wars Battlefront III, which will be apparently heading to more platforms than ever before in the extremely popular franchise's history. While Battlefront I and II only saw release on Sony and Microsoft systems, Battlefront III will bring the war to both the Wii and Nintendo DS for the very first time, continuing LucasArts' strong support of both consoles this generation. The listings revealed that the game has a release of March 15th of next year, so we'll hope that it holds true. If the game is revealed soon, a perfect place would be at E3 next week, so stay tuned. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 9 2008 1:28 AM [Top] Midway Announces Two Nintendo Sequels [ Midway ] Midway today announced sequels to two of the company’s top-selling casual games for Wii and Nintendo DS. Game Party for Wii, the sequel to Midway’s top-selling Game Party which has shipped more than one million units worldwide to date, includes returning favorites from the original and five all-new fun filled family games. TouchMaster 2, for the Nintendo DS, offers a collection of 20 new addictively fun and exciting card, action, strategy, puzzle and picture games. Game Party 2 and TouchMaster 2 are both scheduled to be available this Fall. About Game Party 2 With 11 games in all, Game Party 2 for the Nintendo Wii includes fun to play games that will provide hours of enjoyment with friends and family. Game Party 2 features new games like Bean Bags, Horseshoes, Lawn Darts, Puck Bowling and more. Each game, including classics like Skill Ball, Darts and Hoop Shoot has exciting new features like four player mode, customizable characters and tournament play, making Game Party 2 the ultimate party game for all ages and skill levels. About TouchMaster 2 The wide variety of highly interactive mini-games that made Midway’s TouchMaster a favorite in bars and arcades across the country returns again with TouchMaster 2 for the Nintendo DS. With 20 new games, including exciting twists on some familiar classics, with new spins on Mahki®, Poker and Solitaire, TouchMaster 2 offers addictive fun for gamers of all ages. TouchMaster 2’s new collection includes extremely fun and exciting card, action, strategy, puzzle and picture games. Play a quick round to beat your high-score or find some real competition playing head-to-head against other players. TouchMaster 2, the personal arcade that fits snug in the palm of your hands! Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, July 8 2008 23:42 PM [Top] Animal Crossing Confirmed for E3 [ Official Nintendo Magazine ] The UK's Official Nintendo Magazine has, in a short blurb, confirmed that we will in fact see Animal Crossing for Wii appear at E3 later this month. Not a huge surprise, but nice to know it's coming. Check the source link for the full story, though there's not much there. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, July 8 2008 22:55 PM [Top] Shuffle Dungeon AWAY!!! [ Majesco ] Majesco today announced premier RPG AWAY Shuffle Dungeon for Nintendo DS. Players take control of the young hero “Sword,” the sole resident left of the once booming Webb Village, who must rescue as many kidnapped townsfolk as possible from a mysterious unknown that has been slowly “spiriting them away.” AWAY Shuffle Dungeon includes creative contributions from renowned industry visionaries: RPG creator Hironobu Sakaguchi, character designer Naoto Oshima and composer Nobuo Uematsu. In AWAY Shuffle Dungeon, an unknown force has stripped Webb Village of its residents, and now the sole heroic survivor, Sword, must rescue the stolen villagers from the ominous dungeons as he strives to expose and defeat the mysterious thief. Sword must first collect and use various objects including musical instruments to reveal the secret dungeons where prisoners are being held. But successfully saving them is another challenge altogether given a unique timed “shuffle” mechanic that reconfigures the dungeon prisons and hurts Sword and any survivors still caught within when the time runs out. Saved villagers will lend assistance to Sword’s quest, as will the magical ‘Fupongs’ and dungeon treasure he finds that lets him shop in the village specialty stores for armor, weapons, health, medical aid and more. AWAY Shuffle Dungeon allows players to navigate in both the 2D Shuffle Dungeons and the 3D Webb Village, and features voice-over cinematics that breathe life into the characters in this extraordinary mystery. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 7 2008 14:38 PM [Top] Two New Harvest Moons Announced [ Natsume ] Natsume, a worldwide developer and publisher of family-oriented video games, announced today that the company is celebrating the ten-year anniversary of its popular Harvest Moon franchise this summer. In commemoration of the anniversary, Natsume is launching two new Harvest Moon titles later this quarter and offering a host of retail promotions surrounding the launches. Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness for the Nintendo DS and Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility for the Nintendo Wii will both be available at retail later this summer, and will be branded with special packaging marking the 10th anniversary. In addition, a line of collectible plush toys featuring the cute and friendly animal characters from the games will also be available as a pre-order bonus/gift with purchase at select retailers. In the largest portable Harvest Moon experience ever, Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness for the Nintendo DS tasks players with building their own paradise as they find themselves shipwrecked on a deserted island. In Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility for the Nintendo Wii, you find yourself in a troubled island town which once prospered with life and energy, but is now in serious trouble. The mystical Mother Tree that once watched over the island has disappeared, and the Harvest Goddess is nowhere to be found! The island has lost its connection with nature and the inhabitants don’t know what to do – it’s up to you to save the island! Two new Harvest Moon games? Party at Mike Twomey's house! Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 7 2008 14:07 PM [Top] Aksys Games Unravels Therasia [ Aksys Games ] Aksys Games announced an adventure horror title, Theresia, exclusively for Nintendo DS. In this game developed by WorkJam, players will take on the roles of two different characters trying to understand out their past, present, and intertwined destiny. Will you be able to discover the true meaning of Theresia? * Escape the Maze Alive! Hone your survival skills by carefully exploring the corridors of your captors while uncovering clues that bring you closer to a shocking revelation. * Items for the Win! Collect countless items and combine them in order to survive and uncover the depths of the maze. * Two Stories of Twisted Love and Despair! What is the true meaning behind Theresia? Follow the two tales of Emile and Martel. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 7 2008 13:54 PM [Top] Chrono Trigger DS Site Open [ Square Enix ] The countdown has ended, and as expected, the official website for the upcoming DS remake of Chrono Trigger is open to the public. There's not much there right now, but you can view an announcement teaser with a smidge of gameplay footage. We'll have more on the title, hopefully at E3, so stay tuned. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 7 2008 13:40 PM [Top] One for WiiWare, One for VC for July 7th [ Nintendo ] WiiWare SPOGS Racing (D2C Games, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone-Mild Cartoon Violence, 1,000 Wii Points): Coming at you full throttle is SPOGS Racing, an all-new racer from D2C Games featuring classic arcade racing, pick-up-and-play controls, all-new racing vehicles and Crash N' Grab instant upgrades. Jump in, gear up and modify your ride on the fly as you compete head-to-head for a totally outrageous arcade racing experience on your Wii console. Whether you're a casual gamer or hardcore racer, SPOGS Racing features fun for all and is a must-have download for your WiiWare digital game library. Virtual Console KING OF THE MONSTERS (NEOGEO, 1-2 players, Rated E10 for Everyone 10 and Older-Fantasy Violence, 900 Wii Points): Released by SNK in 1991, KING OF THE MONSTERS is an action/fighting game that features city-destroying battles between huge monsters. Choose one of six monsters and travel around Japan, stopping to fight in various famous cities with the aim of becoming the ultimate winner. In addition to punches, kicks and other regular moves, each character has the ability to use more devastating maneuvers, like throwing flames and shooting laser beams, to defeat opponents. Wrestling elements are also incorporated, as you must completely exhaust your opponent and get a three-count to pin him and be victorious. Along with the player-versus-computer game, multiplayer options allow you and a friend to enjoy one-on-one matches and two-on-two tag-team matches against the computer. Take on the challenge and claim the title of King of the Monsters. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, July 7 2008 8:47 AM [Top] Elebits Sequel Coming to DS [ Konami ] Lo and behold, Konami's Elebits will be getting a sequel. However, it won't be coming to the Wii, but rather to the Nintendo DS. The European press release (where the series is known as "Eledees") is below, but expect a US announcement very soon. Konami has announced the return of its popular Eledees characters, as the cute energy creatures head to DS in an all-new title Eledees: The Adventures of Kai and Zero heading to Europe this Winter. Eledees was an original title designed for the Wii and starred the titular creatures who have the ability to supply electricity when gathered together. As such, players were charged with locating and collecting the tiny Eledees creatures needed to power their home, and this basic concept has been retained for Eledees: The Adventures of Kai and Zero, but within a touch-screen adventure created specifically for the Nintendo handheld. Eledees: The Adventures of Kai and Zero acts as a direct sequel to the Wii game, and adds a mystical slant to the story. The two titular heroes find themselves transported into a mysterious realm by a magical bus created by Kai’s inventor Father. As they get used to their surroundings, the pair must use all their skills to gather the Eledees they will need to assist their progression, with Kai making good use of his special capture gun, which is used to grab the evasive Eledees, and lift, manipulate and move any objects in his path. In addition to locating the various Eledees to power devices, players are also challenged with locating a new species of ‘Omega’ Eledees, who boast a wider range of abilities and act as side-kicks who accompany Kai through the vast stages. As the game progresses, ‘Omega’ Eledees capable of locating hidden areas, freezing water, and illuminating dark areas must be found and put to good use to progress to later stages. The DS game also extends the multi-player elements of the Wii title, with the Nintendo DS Wi-Fi service allowing players to compete head-to-head, or in four-player battles to round up the errant power sources. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 4 2008 20:23 PM [Top] Wario Land: Shake It! Website Launches [ Nintendo ] The official Japanese site for the upcoming Wii platformer Wario Land: Shake It! has opened, including brand-new screens and the very first videos from the game. You'll find both a gameplay video and the game's intro on the site, both showing off the title's unique anime style. The site is entirely in Japanese, but you should be able to find your way around. Click the source link for the site. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, July 4 2008 20:16 PM [Top] Sadness Trailer Coming Soon? [ Nibris ] Nibris has (finally) updated the website for their highly anticipated, if mysterious, Wii game Sadness. On the site, they state that there will soon be a trailer released, maybe as soon as "this vacation," whatever that means (July 4th weekend?). There are also three incredibly small screens that you can see, along with confirming an appearance at Leipzig. Here's the summary of Sadness from the site: The study of fear and the borders of human imagination... A trip to the darkest corners of consciousness, in all of us... A trip to the hell of the subconscious and not necessarily to return... This gothic horror (atmosphere) is not the game of the action. If you're counting on shooting, litres of blood and piles of dead bodies then unfortunately you won't find this here. We are preparing for a mood which will not leave you till the very end of the game. An irregular scenario decides on such issues as schizophrenia or narcolepsy. Apart from an extremely complex and rich-in-the-shocking-factor scenario, the power of our production is innovative use of the Wii controller. Sadness is black and white psychological horror game in which you control Maria - Victorian age aristocrat trying to protect her 8 year old, blind son from monsters trying to get him. Action is set on the verge of XIX and XX century, in ruins in woods of Russian Empire. Entire game focus on psychological aspects of fear and player interactions with Alexander. Here's hoping this game....well, exists. Check out the site with the source link. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Thursday, July 3 2008 22:29 PM [Top] Guitar Hero: On Tour Sets Sales Records [ Activision ] Activision today announced Guitar Hero: On Tour has sold in excess of 300,000 units in North America in the first seven days since its launch, making it the largest North American launch for the Nintendo DS in the company’s history by more than a factor of eight. In addition, Guitar Hero: On Tour’s performance ranks it as one of Activision’s top 5 best-selling launches of any title on any platform in the company’s history. Guitar Hero: On Tour brings the popular Guitar Hero franchise to the handheld platforms for the first time delivering a unique gaming experience and challenging handheld gamers to prove their skills on the most diverse set list of master tracks ever offered in a Guitar Hero game. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, July 3 2008 18:15 PM [Top] Mega Man 9 Dated for Japan [ Famitsu ] The latest issue of Famitsu has revealed more details on one of the WiiWare service's biggest upcoming titles, Mega Man 9. The issue reveals that the Blue Bomber's first excursion in over 11 years will be released in Japan this September, meaning a US release likely won't be too far off. In addition, a screenshot reveals a new black-colored Mega Man will make an appearance, although it is unknown if the character is friend or foe. Stay tuned for more as it breaks. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, July 3 2008 17:47 PM [Top] Majesco Makes Marker Man for DS [ Majesco ] Majesco today announced Marker Man Adventures for Nintendo DS. Developed by Glyphic Entertainment, this unique game based on drawing and physics challenges players to maneuver the charming stick figure, Marker Man, through 150 scrolling world puzzles in his attempt to find his best friend, Doodle Dog. Players use the Touch Screen and stylus to draw geometric shapes-including lines, circles, boxes, triangles and pivot points-to create simple machines that help Marker Man advance through levels from point A to point B. Gamers use logic and can collect power-ups to help solve intricate themed puzzles set in underwater, outer space and ice environments, among others. Three difficulty modes and hidden areas within each level present unique surprises throughout Marker Man's quest to reunite with Doodle Dog. Marker Man Adventures for Nintendo DS is expected to release this holiday. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 2 2008 17:59 PM [Top] Namco Confirms Happy Dance Collection for Wii [ Famitsu ] The latest issue of Famitsu has revealed yet another dance game coming to the Wii, this time from Namco Bandai Games. The very Japanese-titled Happy Dance Collection appears to be a spinoff of the company's popular IDOLM@STER dating sim series, featuring scantily-clad anime pop idols dancing for your enjoyment. Players move the Wii Remote and Nunchuk in conjunction with the movements on screen in order to proceed through the game. The title will also a feature a song list with a variety of Japanese pop songs, as well as songs taken from the IDOLM@STER series itself. No release date for the game has been announced. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 2 2008 17:55 PM [Top] Tecmo Gets Nostalgic for DS [ Famitsu ] It's been an RPG-heavy day for the Nintendo DS already, and wouldn't you know it, the latest issue of Famitsu magazine has confirmed yet another for the company's hallowed handheld. This time, it's from Tecmo, as the magazine confirms Wind of Nostalgia, an RPG (presumably) about sky pirates, with a very similar look to SEGA's highly-lauded RPG Skies of Arcadia. The game is being developed by Matrix Software, best known for the previous DS remake of Final Fantasy III, as well as the upcoming remake of Final Fantasy IV. No release date for the game has been announced. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 2 2008 17:45 PM [Top] Animal Crossing Wii Revealed Soon? [ Official Nintendo Magazine UK ] The latest issue of Official Nintendo Magazine UK gives a tantalizing hint in the "Next Month" section of its latest issue, with a screenshot from the GameCube classic Animal Crossing featuring the caption: "Its Been a while! It’s time to revisit an old friend. How’s your village doing these days?". Unless we're being completely daft here, this is pretty much a confirmation that the long-rumored Animal Crossing Wii is set to make its debut at E3 2008 in two weeks, as has been assumed for quite some time. The magazine also hints at another huge game being detailed within its pages (Kid Icarus?) which would certainly make for a massive E3 from the Big N if it comes to pass. And that's not even counting all of the other shockers the oft-quiet company is sure to showcase in Los Angeles. Stay tuned to Wii Café for all of the details as they happen at E3. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 2 2008 17:29 PM [Top] Chrono Trigger DS to North America This Holiday [ Square Enix ] Square Enix announced today that it will release CHRONO TRIGGER in North America this Holiday season. Remastered exclusively for Nintendo DS, this marks the first time that the groundbreaking RPG will be available on a handheld console. Originally released in 1995 on Super NES and shipping more than 2.5 million copies worldwide, CHRONO TRIGGER has been hailed as one of the greatest games of all time by critics and fans alike. With a unique and multifaceted storyline, the game revolutionized the world of RPGs withnever-before-seen features, including an unprecedented soundtrack and multiple endings determined by side quests and the player's actions. With artwork by famed manga artist Akira Toriyama and an unprecedented and inspiring musical score created by Yasunori Mitsuda, CHRONO TRIGGER represents the best-in-class of the video game world. This newly revamped edition maintains all of the game's original elements and spirit while introducing the portability, dual-screen presentation and Touch-Screen functionality of Nintendo DS. Players will soon be able to rediscover the exhilarating RPG experience, breathtaking storyline and innovative gameplay in the palm of their hands. When a newly developed teleportation device malfunctions at the Millennial Fair, young Crono must travel through time to rescue his misfortunate companion from an intricate web of past and present perils. The swashbuckling adventure that ensues soon unveils an evil force set to destroy the world, triggering Crono's race against time to change the course of history and bring about a brighter future. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 2 2008 12:45 PM [Top] New Tales Game Confirmed For DS [ Jump Magazine ] The latest issue of Jump Magazine in Japan has revealed the third installment in Namco Bandai's extremely popular Tales RPG series heading for the Nintendo DS. Entitled Tales of Hearts, little else is known about the game, but it will feature the series' traditions of starring both a lead hero and lead heroine, likely with its trademark action-RPG combat system. It is currently unknown if the game will receive a US release, unlike previous DS installments Tales of Innocence and Tales of the Tempest, but we'll have to wait and see for more details. Stay tuned. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 2 2008 1:30 AM [Top] Chrono Trigger Remake Confirmed for DS [ Square-Enix ] Square-Enix has long been one of the Nintendo DS's biggest third-party publishers, with a multitude of high-quality remakes and original titles being made for the handheld. However, in the four years of the platform's existance, the company has just announced what could be their biggest game yet - a remake of what is considered by many to be the greatest RPG ever made, Chrono Trigger for the SNES. The confirmation comes in the form of a countdown website (which you can view via the source link) which features the Nintendo DS logo and a clock, as well as the trademark "ticking" sound effect from the game's intro. Word is the game is fully detailed in the latest issue of Jump Magazine, so as soon as we obtain scans we'll post them for you. Stay tuned for more on this huge news as it becomes available. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, July 2 2008 0:36 AM [Top] Castlevania Judgment Official [ Konami ] Konami today announced that Castlevania Judgment, the first Castlevania title in the fighting game genre, is currently in development exclusively for Wii. Developed by legendary Castlevania series producer Koji “Iga” Igarashi, Castlevania Judgment bridges the past with the present as it pits several generations of the Belmont clan against a host of characters that span the franchise’s 22-year history. With 3D environments rendered on Wii, players can choose sides in an epic battle of good versus evil using iconic Castlevania characters designed by famed manga artist Takeshi Obata. Using the motion-sensing controls of the Nunchuk and Wii Remote, players can slash, stab and whip their way across a variety of stages and environmental elements with various surrounding objects as weapons. Select characters can also set traps and make use of monsters on the field to achieve victory in a clash of epic proportions. As an added bonus, players are also able to compete head-to-head using the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection and connect with Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia on the Nintendo DS to unlock bonus gameplay content. Castlevania Judgment will be released in North America Fall 2008 on Wii. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, July 1 2008 20:25 PM [Top] Cooking Mama Cooks Up a Wii Sequel [ Majesco ] Preheat the oven, grease the baking pan and get out the spatula as Majesco today announced additional details of Cooking Mama World Kitchen for Wii. Developed by Cooking Mama Limited, the latest installment in the celebrated franchise includes an all new 3D graphic presentation along with new recipes, modes and comedic mini-game surprises. In Cooking Mama World Kitchen, Mama and friends have a whole new look given the game's upgrade to full 3D graphics. By utilizing the Wii Remote as a universal kitchen utensil, players can simulate actual cooking by chopping, grating, slicing, stirring and rolling their way through all new recipes that range from parfait to shrimp au gratin. Best of all, kitchen mistakes during meal preparation result in comedic mini-game surprises; for example, if you flip a burger too high, you can control Mama as she rushes in to save the day by catching it in her apron. Finally, a new game play mechanic integrates traditional Wii Remote utensil play with additional rhythm and motion that makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Cooking Mama World Kitchen for Wii is expected to release this holiday. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, July 1 2008 11:33 AM [Top] Atlus Teams With NIS For Two New DS Games [ Atlus ] Atlus today announced it will serve as exclusive North American distributor for two highly-anticipated DS titles from publisher NIS America. On September 23, 2008, both Disgaea DS and Rhapsody: A Musical Adventure will launch simultaneously on Nintendo DS, each with MSRP of $29.99. About Disgaea DS Completely remade to take advantage of Nintendo DS, Disgaea DS offers a deep strategy RPG experience with an exceptional story, a fantastic script, and a host of loveable characters and settings. An all-new story focus means a completely different experience for the player, not to mention a brand new ending. Geo Cubes add special effects to the battlefield, completely shifting the balance in the blink of an eye. Using local wireless multiplayer support, take your friends on in grand battles of strategy and wit – or try different modes like Defeat the Leader and Capture the Flag. With support for touch screen control and excellent of use of the two Nintendo DS screens, Disgaea has never played better. About Rhapsody: A Musical Adventure Enter the world of Rhapsody, where music and action combine to create a charming adventure! A beautiful remake of the PlayStation original, Rhapsody: A Musical Adventure for Nintendo DS delivers stunning high-resolution 2D sprites, innovative music-based RPG gameplay, and more features than ever before. New features exclusive to the DS version include dual screen navigation and unlockable characters not previously available. Experience a wonderful symphony of RPG fun! Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, July 1 2008 11:29 AM [Top]