Today's Special Archives: August 2005

News Archives Index Prince of Persia 3 Developer Diary 2 [ Ubisoft ] The Prince of Persia makes his way home to Babylon, bearing with him Kaileena, the enigmatic Empress of Time, and unspeakable scars from the Island of Time. But instead of the peace he longs for, he finds his kingdom ravaged by war and Kaileena the target of a brutal plot. When she is kidnapped, the Prince tracks her to the Palace - only to see her murdered by a powerful enemy. Her death unleashes the Sands of Time, which strike the Prince and threaten to destroy everything he holds dear. Cast to the streets, hunted as a fugitive, the Prince soon discovers that the Sands have tainted him, too. They have given rise to a deadly Dark Prince, whose spirit gradually possesses him. Prince of Persia 3 will be released on December 5th. Hit the link to watch the video in any browser or right click and save it to your computer. Video: Prince of Persia 3 Developer Diary 2 (16.0 MB) Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, August 31 2005 8:30 AM [Top] Sony Executive Badmouths Nintendo DS Some More [ MCV ] Phil Harrison, Executive VP of Sony Computer Entertainment, has decided that it was once again time to open his mouth and verbally abuse Nintendo and the DS on the verge of the European launch of the Playstation Portable. "The idea of a handheld rivalry with Nintendo is an irrelevance. Those formats don’t appear in our planning. It's not a fair comparison; not fair on them, I should stress. That sounds arrogant, maybe, but it's the truth." He continued, "Nintendo knows its target audience, because it has really narrowed that down; and it's pretty much defined by a boy or girl's ability to admire Pokémon." So far there has only been one Pokémon game on the DS and it wasn't all that successful. Pokémon Dash sold well, but not nearly what Nintendo had expected it to. Mr Harrison also said that the Nintendo DS was mostly for people in their early teens and lower and that Nintendo was trying desperately to sell the system to people in their late teens. He said that the PSP is for a more mature audience of upwards of people in their thirties. "With the DS, it’s fair to say that Nintendo stepped out of the technical race and went for a feature differentiation with the touch screen. But I fear that it won't have a lasting impact beyond that of a gimmick; so the long-lasting appeal of the platform is at peril as a direct result of that." I really don't know where Mr. Harrison is getting his numbers, but the past two weeks the Nintendo DS has seen spikes of the Nintendo DS hardware in both North America and Japan with the release of Nintendogs in North America and Jump Superstars in Japan. This just goes to prove that with good software, the hardware will sell. It seems that Sony might have figured this out by now and put at least a few games on the PSP that the majority of the public wants. The Nintendo DS continues to pummel the PSP in all areas of the world and with the upcoming release of the system in Europe it won't be long before they are making excuses why it isn't selling there as well. The Nintendo DS has sold over 7 million units worldwide and the PSP has sold less than half of that. These feeble attempts to discredit the Nintendo DS are pathetic on the part of Sony. Perhaps if they focused on their own product and not on bashing the competition, they wouldn't be in the serious financial trouble that they currently are. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Tuesday, August 30 2005 17:31 PM [Top] Mario Superstar Baseball Released [ Nintendo ] Joe DiMaggio may be the greatest hitter of all time, but would he have been able to hit one of Bowser's somersaulting Bullet Bills? Even the greats from America's favorite pastime wouldn't have a glimmer of hope against a crew from the Mario universe – the true baseball champions. "Play ball" Aug. 29 with the launch of Mario Superstar Baseball for Nintendo GameCube. Players choose their captains from more than 20 beloved characters in the Mario universe, including Peach, Daisy, Yoshi, Birdo, Bowser, Bowser Jr., Wario and Waluigi, who all have a unique Star Skill that allows them to perform a special move while pitching or batting. Donkey Kong doesn't feel the need for a bat and simply uses his boxing glove to punch the ball out of the stadium. Watch out for Mario and Luigi's fireball pitches that light on fire or have Diddy Kong throw the almost unhittable, curving banana ball. "This easy-to-learn, hard-to-master ballgame features all your favorite characters in absurd rivalries," said George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "Even the playing fields offer a glimpse into the characters' personalities, perfectly blending Mario and his crew with the time-honored sport of baseball." The mechanics of the game are just like real baseball, but with a Nintendo twist. Spinning tornadoes may launch a fly ball into the cheap seats, and a floating item box might obstruct a shot to center. Power up to hit a bomb or be safe and hit the ball in play. Players also should watch out for rolling barrels in the field that will knock them over as they hunt down a ground ball. Play exhibition games for one or two players, or journey through the land to complete baseball-related missions in Challenge mode on the way to a showdown with Bowser. Players also can beat multiple skill levels and compete against up to three others in mini-games that unlock new characters, features and stadiums. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, August 29 2005 10:17 AM [Top] Mario Hits Slopes in SSX On Tour [ Nintendo ] Electronic Arts and Nintendo announced today a partnership that brings the Nintendo All-Stars – Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach – to the Nintendo GameCube version of SSX On Tour, scheduled to launch this fall under the EA SPORTS BIG brand. The game is being produced by Electronic Arts Canada, the studio that also is home to the industry-leading NBA LIVE and NBA Street hoops videogame franchises. This marks the second collaboration between EA and Nintendo to bring Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach to the EA SPORTS BIG lineup of titles, with NBA Street V3 being the first iteration of the partnership. Building on the critically acclaimed gameplay of the SSX franchise, SSX On Tour features all-new player customization that gives you the chance to join The Tour. SSX On Tour is packed with all-new highly detailed tracks, new stylish player customization options, new monster tricks, and enhanced multiplayer options. "When Electronic Arts put a basketball in Mario's hand, he did quite well," said Reggie Fils-Aime, executive vice president, sales and marketing, for Nintendo of America Inc. "Now Mario and crew are hitting the slopes thanks to a successful and creative partnership between Nintendo and EA. Mario has traveled in snow before, but never this fast. Let's hope his mustache doesn't freeze." SSX On Tour will be released on Cube on October 24th. Hit the links to check out the art work. Images: Mario in SSX On Tour Peach in SSX On Tour Luigi in SSX On Tour Matthew Silver -- Posted on Saturday, August 27 2005 9:23 AM [Top] Last Chance To Get E3 DVD [ GameCube Café ] We recently decided that we would sell off the last of the remaining copies of the E3 DVD on eBay. There have been a few problems with our storefront and not everyone who has wanted a copy has been able to get one. So if you had problems before and still want one, now is the chance to pick it up. Hitting the source link above will take you to the appropriate eBay page where you can buy the item. For everyone who already has bought the DVD we want to thank you and hope you enjoyed it! We also decided that we will be doing an E3 DVD next year as well. We have learned quite a bit from this year and believe that next year we can make it even better and even less expensive. Next year we will most likely sell the DVD exclusively through eBay to ensure that there will be no billing issues. You can't even begin to imagine how much Revolution footage will be on our DVD next year. Yes, begin drooling. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Saturday, August 27 2005 0:06 AM [Top] Nintendo Dates Revolution Controller Unveilling [ Nintendo ] Nintendo has announced that what we have all been waiting for since E3 will happen at the Tokyo Game Show on September 16th. Nintendo president, Satoru Iwata, will make the keynote speech for that date and unveil the controller for the Nintendo Revolution. Also during the speech he will be showing off the Revolution in full. What does that mean? A detailed outline of the hardware, the controller and how it will connect to the Revolution, and exactly how the system will work. After that, several games will be demonstrated on the machine, headlined by Mario 128. The other games are unknown at this time. But it is possible that the new Smash Brothers will be shown (as we know they are working on this game). You can bet that we will be covering the TGS this year extensively. The Café is where you want to be come September 16th. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Friday, August 26 2005 9:51 AM [Top] Metroid Prime Hunters Will Be Wi-Fi Ready! [ Nintendo ] Since the Nintendo DS first launched with demo versions of Metroid Prime Hunters, fans have been clamoring for the completed version of the game. Their patience has paid off. Metroid Prime Hunters will launch in the first quarter of 2006, complete with access to Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, Nintendo’s upcoming online gaming service. Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection will debut before the end of the year with a Mario Kart and an Animal Crossing game, and will let players connect wirelessly with one another as easily as if they were sitting in the same room. For the first time, fans can get their hands on a trial version of the new single-player mission of Metroid Prime Hunters this weekend at the Penny Arcade Expo in Bellevue, Wash. Attendees also can see three previously unreleased bounty hunter characters in the game. These include Sylux, a ruthless sharpshooter who harbors an intense hatred for Metroid heroine Samus Aran; Trace, a young outcast who seeks power and a planet to invade; and Weavel, a cyborg Space Pirate assassin. For more information and videos of the bounty hunters in action, visit the official Metroid Prime Hunters website. Well it looks like I was right the other day when I said the delay was to make sure that it was online. The delay now is definitely justified. I don't think anyone cares they have to wait a few months for it. Maybe this is the first step Nintendo is taking to realize gamers want to play games online. If only they could have realized this four freaking years ago. Nintendo also released some art work of the characters they described up above. Images: Metroid Prime Hunters Art Work 1 - Sylux Metroid Prime Hunters Art Work 2 - Trace Metroid Prime Hunters Art Work 3 - Weavel Matthew Silver -- Posted on Friday, August 26 2005 9:39 AM [Top] New GBA SP Colors [ Nintendo ] Nintendo has announced two new colors for the Game Boy Advance SP; graphite and pearl. There is no release date for the new colors but my best guess is that they will be released fairly soon; definitely in time for the Holiday season. Hit the links to check out the new colors. Images: Game Boy Advance SP Pearl Game Boy Advance SP Graphite Matthew Silver -- Posted on Friday, August 26 2005 9:34 AM [Top] Biohazard DS Japan Website Opens [ Capcom Japan ] Capcom Japan has opened up their website for the newly announced Biohazard: Deadly Silence. There really isn't much on the site, but this confirms the game one hundred percent now. The top screen on the game looks like it will be primarly used for your map and status screen. Not too much creativity there if that is the case. However it does allow to always know where you are in the game as well as change weapons very quickly. The map they show is the exact same map from the original Resident Evil that was on Playstation. It is not confirmed yet if it will be just a Playstation "port" or if the areas added for the 2002 GameCube update will be in the game as well. We will keep you posted on this in the future. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Friday, August 26 2005 5:35 AM [Top] Bandai Namco Logos [ Bandai Namco ] Two logos have recently been trademarked by the companies in preparation for their merger next month. While neither logo is the official logo, it is believed that one of them will most likely become the final logo for the new company. The merger was announced this past May and will see Bandai holding fifty seven percent of the company and Namco holding forty three percent. Hit the links to check out the potenial logos. Personally, I like the first one better. Images: Bandai Namco Logo 1 Bandai Namco Logo 2 Matthew Silver -- Posted on Friday, August 26 2005 2:33 AM [Top] True Crime: New York City Trailer [ GameCube Café ] The sequel to Activision's crime epic True Crime: Streets of LA, True Crime: New York City promises to be one of the biggest, baddest, best games to be released this year. The latest True Crime will feature a completely accurate overview of New York City so real, you can almost taste the street corner pizza. The game features a unique, ever evolving storyline where gamers must complete dozens of missions in order to make the city a better place. The game also looks to feature the best fighting, shooting, and driving gameplay around. Check out the latest trailer for this game below by right-clicking to save it to your hard drive. Video: True Crime: New York City Trailer (26.1 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, August 26 2005 0:37 AM [Top] New X-Men Legends II Trailer [ GameCube Café ] The sequel to one of the best multiplayer games of last year, X-Men Legends II: Rise of Apocalypse promises to exceed the expectations given upon it in every way. Playing as either one of the X-Men or, for the first time ever, as Magneto or one of his Brotherhood of Evil Mutants, battle in numerous exotic locals against the ultimate evil: Apocalypse. X-Men Legends II features fast-paced 4-player action and should be a massiv hit when it releases for the GameCube next month. For now, check out the latest trailer by clicking the link below to view it in your browser or right-click to save it to your hard drive. Video: X-Men Legends II Trailer (24.6 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, August 25 2005 23:29 PM [Top] More New Prince of Persia 3 Screens [ Ubisoft ] Ubisoft has released even more new screenshots of the upcoming Prince of Persia game. Don't worry, I won't annoy you with the same old plot summary again. Prince of Persia 3 will be released across all systems on December 5th. These new screens are exclusively about the Dark Prince, who has seen a bit of a makeover. He no longer sports white hair, but a fried looking black hair style. Check it out, hit the links below. Images: Dark Prince Artwork Dark Prince Screenshot 1 Dark Prince Screenshot 2 Dark Prince Screenshot 3 Dark Prince Screenshot 4 Matthew Silver -- Posted on Thursday, August 25 2005 22:48 PM [Top] New 007: From Russia With Love Screenshots [ Electronic Arts ] Step into the shoes of the legendary Sean Connery, the original James Bond. Drive the vintage cars, meet the beautiful women, and visit the exotic locales, all beautifully rendered in authentic '60s style. Fully integrated stealth and driving missions, non-linear level progression, the new zoom and focus aiming mechanic, and a deeply immersive living world add up to innovative, non-stop Bond action. Brand-New Multiplayer Mode—Third-person, split-screen deathmatch mode offers an engrossing social multiplayer experience. A new scoring and rewards system allows you to deeply customize the equipment, skills, and abilities you'll use in action as James Bond. Equip yourself with an array of classic weapons and gadgets updated with unique 21st century twists. Check out some new screens below of what's sure to be a huge holiday hit for the GameCube when it is released this fall. Images: 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 1 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 2 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 3 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 4 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 5 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 6 Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, August 25 2005 22:36 PM [Top] Tamagotchi DS Comes to US [ Bandai ] Bandai has announced officially that they will be bringing the upcoming Tamagotchi title for the Nintendo DS to the US.. The game, now titled Tamagotchi: Shop Simulation, is a spin-off of the ledgendary digital pet series that has players opening a series of shops in a wide variety of professions from bakeries to dentistries, and, by completeing various minigames, can then upgrade these businesses by customizing your shop with various trinkets, including ultra-cute Tamagotchi pets. Watch for Tamagotchi: Shop Simulation to hit stores this winter. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, August 25 2005 22:03 PM [Top] New King Kong Screenshots [ Ubisoft ] Not much is really known about this game. You run around as an oversize monkey (yeah yeah, ape) and kill things. Sounds like quite the fun game. A few weeks ago we had a trailer of the game up and Carl described it as "Prince of Persia with a big ape." While that was not my first impression, it does sort of fit the bill. Anyway, King Kong will be released on GameCube and Nintendo DS on November 22nd. Hit the links for the new screens. Images: King Kong Screenshot 1 King Kong Screenshot 2 King Kong Screenshot 3 King Kong Screenshot 4 King Kong Screenshot 5 King Kong Screenshot 6 King Kong Screenshot 7 King Kong Screenshot 8 King Kong Screenshot 9 Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, August 24 2005 11:30 AM [Top] Resident Evil For DS Official [ IGN DS ] IGN is reporting that, according to various sources in Japan and the upcoming issue of Famitsu, the legendary Resident Evil franchise from Capcom will indeed be making its way onto the Nintendo DS. In Japan, the game will be known as Biohazard: Deadly Silence (what's with all these companies using subtitles with DS as an acronym?). No other details or information about the game have been revealed at this time, but we hope to have more soon. Update!! We have now gotten our hands on a scan from the upcoming Famitsu magazine clearly showing that is the ORIGINAL Resident Evil game. Yeah, the one that was released on Playstation almost ten years ago. Why are you still reading? Hit the damn link already. Images: First Ever Resident Evil DS Screenshots Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 24 2005 10:22 AM [Top] Smash Brothers Melee Bundle Released [ Nintendo ] The most popular game in the Nintendo GameCube library is about to become part of an amazing deal. Starting the last week of August, Nintendo will release a special Super Smash Bros. Melee Nintendo GameCube bundle, at an MSRP of only $99.99. Saving $29.99, consumers nationwide get a great game and the system to play it on – all for one low price. Since its debut in late 2001, Super Smash Bros. Melee, Rated T for Teen, has sold more than 2.9 million copies in the United States alone, spawning competitive tournaments and clubs, from game shops to college campuses across the country. More than 20 characters, pulled from virtually every hit Nintendo game, meet up to battle in 30 arenas and nine different game modes. Control Donkey Kong in a face-off with Princess Zelda, or select Wario in a four-player showdown against three of your friends. The array of game-play options will make your head spin. Also, you may be wondering about the number of arenas listed. The Nintendo press release states there is thirty, but there is only twenty nine. Even more interesting is the fact that they mention Wario as a playable character, which have never been revealed. Unless there are some new codes they aren't telling us about (which is highly unlikely) they just made a mistake. We are checking up on this. Update!! We also just realize another mistake in the press release. It lists 9 game modes when there is in fact only 8. We have no idea what the heck is going on here but we will find out soon enough. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, August 24 2005 8:58 AM [Top] New From Russia With Love Trailer [ GameCube Café ] This is the third new trailer in as many weeks we have gotten for EA's new Bond game, From Russia With Love. Like the previous Bond games this generation it can be expected that we will get a new trailer for the game every week leading up to its release on November 1st. This latest trailer shows driving aspects of the game. Naturally you have access to some pretty cool weapons that Bond had in the movie, plus some things that he didn't. The driving looks to be very similar to the driving of Agent Under Fire and Everything or Nothing. Hit the link to check the trailer out. Video: From Russia With Love - Istanbul Driving (6.4 MB) Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, August 24 2005 2:07 AM [Top] Metroid Prime Hunters Officially Delayed [ Nintendo ] Nintendo has officially delayed the release of the sure to be smash hit, Metroid Prime Hunters, to quarter one of 2006. Yes, even now I can hear you all collectively groan and bitch out Nintendo for this move. However, the delay could be for a couple good reasons. Most likely they want the game to the best game that it can be and secondly, it is quite possible that Nintendo is trying to make this game compatible with the soon to be released Nintendo Wi-Fi. Nintendo Wi-Fi will be released with the release of Mario Kart DS, which is slated for November 14th. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, August 24 2005 1:54 AM [Top] Mario & Luigi 2 Subtitle Revealed [ Nintendo ] Nintendo today announced that the subtitle of Mario & Luigi 2 is "Partners in Time." This title of course makes perfect sense as both Baby Mario and Baby Luigi will exist in the same time period as their adult counterparts. Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time will be released for the Nintendo DS on November 28th. Below is a little bit about the game. And you thought their last adventure was insane? In this sequel to Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga, the brothers travel back in time to retrieve Princess Peach, only to come face to face with baby versions of themselves, the princess and Bowser. Teaming up with their young selves will soon send Mario and Luigi on a quest of lunatic proportions as players must control both the adult AND baby versions of the Mushroom Kingdom heroes. Players use the top screen to study the land, keep track of the pair of brothers not under their control or maximize combo moves in battle. With twice the Mario brothers and twice the laughs, this massive side-splitting adventure could only find a home on the dual screens of the Nintendo DS. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, August 24 2005 1:50 AM [Top] EA and Nintendo Team Up Again [ Cube-Europe ] Back in February, Electronic Arts released NBA Street V3 for the GameCube with Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach available in the game as exclusive playable characters. Now, it looks as if the two companies will team up again, this time for the latest EA Sports Big release: SSX: On Tour. Once again, it looks as though only the trio of Mario, Luigi, and Peach will be in the game, but this development certainly makes the GameCube version of the game a more appealing product than it would have been without them. Head on over to Cube-Europe's site by clicking the source link and check out an exclusive video of the Mushroom Kingdom trio shredding like pros, and watch for SSX: On Tour to hit stores for the GameCube this fall. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 24 2005 0:35 AM [Top] Tony Hawk's American Wasteland Boxart [ Gamestop ] In Tony Hawk's American Wasteland, the objective is simple: become the baddest, toughest, best skater in all of Los Angeles. Combining amazing graphics in a seamless, open-eneded world with no load times, gamers will create their own skater to take on missions from some of today's top pros. The game will also feature a cavalcade of music exclusive to the game, featuring many of today's top punk bands such as My Chemical Romance, Fall Out Boy, Thrice, Alkaline Trio, Saves The Day, Taking Back Sunday, and Thursday covering classic tunes by legendary punk acts from the beginnings of the LA skate scene like The Misfits, Black Flag, The Descendents, Minor Threat, and Bad Brains. Tony Hawk's American Wasteland will hit stores for the GameCube, GBA, and Nintendo DS this fall, and you can check out the boxart for the GCN version (albeit a small one) below. Images: Tony Hawk's American Wasteland Boxart Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 24 2005 0:08 AM [Top] New PoP3 Concept Art [ Ubisoft ] Ubisoft has finally released concept art for Farah, who was confirmed to be in the game back at E3. Also, Ubi has released a lot of information about the secondary characters that will be in the game. There is FAR too much info to put in this news post, but if you click the source link you can read all about Kaileena, Farah, and the Old Man. Prince of Persia 3 will be released on December 5th. Hit the links to check out the very awesome art work. Images: Prince of Persia 3 Farah Concept Art Prince of Persia 3 Kaileena Concept Art Prince of Persia 3 Old Man Concept Art 1 Prince of Persia 3 Old Man Concept Art 2 Prince of Persia 3 Prince Concept Art Matthew Silver -- Posted on Tuesday, August 23 2005 23:25 PM [Top] Prince of Persia 3 Voice Actors Announced [ JustGamers ] German site JustGamers has broken the news of who will be providing the voice of the Prince in Ubisoft's hotly anticipated upcoming title Prince of Persia 3. As confirmed, there are two actors doing the voice, one for the Light Prince and one for the Dark Prince. Their names are Yuri Lowenthal and Atkin Downes. Fans of the series may recognize these names, as Yuri provided the widely-loved voice of the light-hearted and whimsical Prince in Sands of Time, and were disappointed beyond words to learn that he was being replaced for Warrior Within. Not coincidentally, his replacement, who was hired for his ability to portray a dark and desperate character, was Mr. Downes. This pairing has been a dream for many PoP fans since the conception of the dual-Prince system at E3, including yours truly, and to see it actually happening is a testament to why so many fans appreciate Ubisoft so much. This game just keeps looking better and better. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, August 23 2005 23:25 PM [Top] New GUN Trailer [ GameCube Café ] Set in the untamed West of the late-1800s, GUN is a free-roaming action-adventure game that takes players to a world without laws where greed, lust and murder are rampant. As Colton White, a vengeful gunslinger, players must straddle the line between good and evil as they showdown against corrupt lawmen, a murderous preacher, renegade army psychopaths, merciless outlaws and unforgiving Native Americans, while waging war on horseback, collecting bounties, and commandeering trains. Players travel through an action-packed landscape of high mountain wilderness, deserts and bustling territorial towns in an epic story of betrayal, greed, and revenge. Check out the awesome new trailer for this game below by saving it to your hard drive or clicking to view in your browser, and watch for GUN to hit stores for the Nintendo GameCube in the fall Video: GUN Trailer (13.3 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 23 2005 23:20 PM [Top] New Sonic Rush Trailer [ GameCube Café ] Everyone's favorite blue dude with 'tude, Sonic the Hedgehog, blasts his way onto the Nintendo DS and takes high-speed action gaming to a whole new level … literally! Sonic pairs up with royalty - Queen, Blaze the Cat - from another dimension to save the universe from utter destruction. Sonic Rush takes full advantage of the dual screens on the Nintendo DS system to deliver a frenetic adventure with dizzying dives, near vertical curves, extreme jumps, brain-twisting loops and more! Check out the latest trailer for this game below by hitting the link to view it in your browser or right-click to save to your hard drvie. Sonic Rush will be released for the Nintendo DS this fall. Video: Sonic Rush Trailer (14.4 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 23 2005 14:20 PM [Top] Worms DS Screenshots [ THQ ] Recently, THQ announced they were bringing the popular Worms franchise to the Nintendo DS. Now, we have the first screenshots of this game below. Worms for the DS is a military arcade game where players use touch-screen aiming to blast their opponents on the ground and out of the sky. The game will hit stores sometime in 2006. Images: Worms DS Screenshot 1 Worms DS Screenshot 2 Worms DS Screenshot 3 Worms DS Screenshot 4 Worms DS Screenshot 5 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 23 2005 14:12 PM [Top] New Lost In Blue Trailer [ GameCube Café ] Lost in Blue is an innovative RPG takes players on a journey of survival, adventure and mystery. After a disastrous incident at sea, the hero of the game awakens to find himself on a seemingly uninhabited island. After meeting another survivor, a 17-year old girl who has also drifted ashore, the two must work together to survive. While planning their escape, the two will learn survival skills, such as hunting, searching and building while uncovering the island's many mysteries. Check out a trailer of the game below by downloading it to your hard drive. Video: Lost In Blue Trailer (14.6 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 23 2005 0:23 AM [Top] New Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshots [ Activision ] Take on the role of the world’s most famous Super Hero, Marvel’s Spider-Man, and one of his most menacing nemeses, Venom, in an original storyline written and illustrated by the creative team behind the best-selling “Ultimate Spider-Man” comic books. Set in a massive free-roaming New York City environment, including the new borough of Queens, the game delivers the most in-depth Spider-Man adventure to date with a variety of demanding missions, diverse gameplay and a new combat system that allows players to face off against the largest number of interactive characters from the Marvel universe ever assembled in a Spider-Man game. With gameplay that unfolds through interactive comic book panels and 3D Comic Inking Technology, players are seamlessly integrated into a virtual comic book experience via simultaneous multiple visual perspectives. Ultimate Spider-Man will hit stores for the GameCube, GBA, and DS next month and you can check out the latest screenshots below. Images: Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 1 Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 2 Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 3 Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 4 Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 5 Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 6 Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 7 Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 8 Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 9 Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 10 Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 11 Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 12 Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, August 22 2005 23:33 PM [Top] Greg Hastings Tournament Paintball MAX'D Screenshots [ Activision ] Earlier today in Nintendo's official GameCube release schedule for 2005, it was announced that Activision's upcoming paintball shooter Greg Hastings Tournament Paintball MAX'D will be coming to the system. Thus, we've seen fit to show you a bit of the game with some screenshots below. The paintball action will hit stores on October 18th. Images: Greg Hastings Tournament Paintball MAX'D Screenshot 1 Greg Hastings Tournament Paintball MAX'D Screenshot 2 Greg Hastings Tournament Paintball MAX'D Screenshot 3 Greg Hastings Tournament Paintball MAX'D Screenshot 4 Greg Hastings Tournament Paintball MAX'D Screenshot 5 Greg Hastings Tournament Paintball MAX'D Screenshot 6 Greg Hastings Tournament Paintball MAX'D Screenshot 7 Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, August 22 2005 23:00 PM [Top] New True Crime: New York City Screenshots [ Activision ] In True Crime: New York City, unprecedented environmental interaction allows players to access almost everything in the environment that will help them defeat enemies including stove top burners, ovens, industrial machinery, locking a suspect in a freezer and using broken chair legs as clubs. Gamers can race through the streets of Manhattan in shootouts, pulling off stunts on motorcycles or in a variety of vehicles such as customizable black market vehicles and police-issue cars. As a street-smart cop players are able to switch fighting styles– from street fighting to various types of martial arts – on the fly against opponents, opening up an array of moves and strategies designed to take down enemies. Check out the latest screens of this game before which give us our first look at the El Barrio neighborhood, take a look at some hot rides Marcus will make use of, and give us a look at lovely yet hard-nosed cop Deena Dixon Images: True Crime: New York City Screenshot 1 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 2 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 3 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 4 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 5 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 6 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 7 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 8 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 9 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 10 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 11 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 12 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 13 Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, August 22 2005 22:54 PM [Top] Prince of Persia 3 Screenshots [ Ubisoft ] The Prince of Persia makes his way home to Babylon, bearing with him Kaileena, the enigmatic Empress of Time, and unspeakable scars from the Island of Time. But instead of the peace he longs for, he finds his kingdom ravaged by war and Kaileena the target of a brutal plot. When she is kidnapped, the Prince tracks her to the Palace - only to see her murdered by a powerful enemy. Her death unleashes the Sands of Time, which strike the Prince and threaten to destroy everything he holds dear. Cast to the streets, hunted as a fugitive, the Prince soon discovers that the Sands have tainted him, too. They have given rise to a deadly Dark Prince, whose spirit gradually possesses him. Prince of Persia 3 will be released on December 5th. Hit the links to check out the new screens. Images: Prince of Persia 3 Screenshot 1 Prince of Persia 3 Screenshot 2 Prince of Persia 3 Screenshot 3 Prince of Persia 3 Screenshot 4 Prince of Persia 3 Screenshot 5 Matthew Silver -- Posted on Monday, August 22 2005 20:54 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces Play-Yan Micro [ Nintendo of Japan ] Nintendo has revealed that they will release a new versionof the Play-Yan, the media player made for use with the Game Boy Advance SP and Nintendo DS, for the launch of the new Game Boy Micro. The new Play-Yan Micro is exactly the same as the original system, except it features a brand-new user interface, new mini-games, and all compatible firmware updates, including one that gives it MPEG-4 movie functionality. The device will also be only available online, and will launch at two price points: alone for 5,000 yen, or bundled with Panasonic's MediaStage software for 6,000 yen. While no US release of the Play-Yan has been announced, rumors have placed one as a distinct possibility for the holiday season. Check out images of the Play-Yan Micro below Images: Play-Yan Micro Image 1 Play-Yan Micro Image 2 Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, August 22 2005 20:42 PM [Top] Nintendo Announces GBM Famicom Faceplate [ Nintendo of Japan ] Nintendo's Japanese fanclub, Club Nintendo, has announced a special bonus for its members: a Game Boy Micro faceplate based on the classic Famicom system, known, of course, as the NES here in the US. The faceplate can be obtained only by exchanging 200 points for it on the Club Nintendo website, and will be available starting September 13th. One has to wonder: could an NES-themed faceplate be on its way for American Nintendo.com members for their GBMs? We'll have to wait and see, but that seems like an inevitability at this point. Images: Game Boy Micro With Famicom Faceplate Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, August 22 2005 20:32 PM [Top] DS Rumble Pack Announced [ Nintendo ] Nintendo announced today that they will make available a Rumble Pack, the force feedback device originally developed for the N64, for use with the Nintendo DS and plugged into the system's GBA slot. This news comes as no surprise since the Rumble Pack was shown off for the DS at E3, used with Metroid Prime Pinball. Indeed, the Pack will be initially packed in with Prime Pinball, although an individual release of the periphrial could be announced later. Metroid Prime Pinball with the Rumble Pak will launch into action for the Nintendo DS on October 24th. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, August 22 2005 20:23 PM [Top] Screw Breaker Renamed [ Nintendo ] Nintendo has officially announced that Screw Breaker, the new GBA action game which made it's debut at E3, has received a new title. The game, now called Drill Dozer, is developed by Game Freak, the same company behind the Pokémon series. Drill Dozer has yet to receive a release date, but expect it to come sometime early next year. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, August 22 2005 20:15 PM [Top] GameCube Release Schedule [ Nintendo ] And now Nintendo's launch schedule for the GameCube for the rest of the year, as well as some for 2006. Worth a mention is the suspicious absence of Zelda: Twilight Princess, also due out early next year. Could this be a tell-tale sign that the game will indeed be a Revolution title, as has been long rumored? We can't say, but it's certainly interesting. Aug. 23: The Incredible Hulk 3: Ultimate Destruction from Vivendi Aug. 29: Mario Superstar Baseball from Nintendo Aug. 29: WWE Day of Reckoning 2 from THQ Aug. 30: Namco Museum 50th Anniversary from Namco Sept. 6: One Piece Grand Battle from Bandai Sept. 12: Scooby Doo! Unmasked from THQ Sept. 19: Battalion Wars from Nintendo Sept. 19: Tak: The Great Juju Challenge from THQ Sept. 26: NBA Live '06 from Electronic Arts Sept. 30: Cabela's Outdoor Adventures 2006 from Activision September: Marvel Nemesis: Rise of the Imperfects from Electronic Arts September: Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Lockdown from Ubisoft September: Ultimate Spider-Man from Activision Oct. 3: Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness from Nintendo Oct. 4: Bratz: Rock Angelz from THQ Oct. 17: Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance from Nintendo Oct. 18: Greg Hastings' Tournament Paintball MAX'D from Activision Oct. 18: TY 3 - The Tasmanian Tiger from Activision Oct. 19: SpongeBob SquarePants: Lights, Camera, PANTS! from THQ Oct. 24: Dance Dance Revolution: Mario Mix from Nintendo Oct. 26: Nicktoons Unite! from THQ October: Disney's Chicken Little from Buena Vista Games October: Zatch Bell from Bandai Nov. 1: Cabela's Dangerous Hunts from Activision Nov. 1: SeaWorld: Shamu's Big Adventure from Activision Nov. 1: The Incredibles: Rise of the Underminer from THQ Nov. 7: Mario Party 7 from Nintendo Nov. 8: American Chopper Full Throttle from Activision Nov. 8: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire from Electronic Arts November: Karaoke Revolution Party from Konami November: King Kong from Ubisoft November: Mega Man X Collection from Capcom November: Need for Speed: Most Wanted from Electronic Arts November: Pac-Man World 3 from Namco November: Shadow the Hedgehog from Sega November: The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe from Buena Vista Games November: Viewtiful Joe Red Hot Rumble from Capcom Dec. 5: Super Mario Strikers from Nintendo Fall: Call of Duty: Big Red One from Activision Fall: Frogger: Ancient Shadow from Konami Fall: James Bond: From Russia With Love from Electronic Arts Fall: Shrek SuperSlam from Activision Fall: Spartan: Total Warrior from Sega Fall: SSX On Tour from Electronic Arts Fall: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 3: Mutant Nightmare from Konami Fall: The Sims 2 from Electronic Arts Fall: Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2006 from Electronic Arts Fall: Tony Hawk's American Wasteland from Activision Fall: X-Men Legends II: Rise of the Apocalypse from Activision Q4: Ed, Edd and Eddy: The MisEdventures from Midway Q4: Midway Arcade Treasures 3 from Midway February: Teen Titans from Majesco TBD: True Crime: New Crime New City from Activision Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Monday, August 22 2005 18:33 PM [Top] Game Boy Advance Launch Schedule [ Nintendo ] Here's Nintendo's latest release schedule for the GBA, GBA SP, and GBM (launching September 19 at $99.99), through 2005. Aug. 29: Dynasty Warriors Advance from Nintendo Aug. 30: Namco Museum 50th Anniversary from Namco August: Gumby vs. the Astrobots from Namco August: Lizzie McGuire 3: Homecoming Havoc from Buena Vista Games August: Shaman King: Master of Spirits 2 from Konami Sept. 6: One Piece from Bandai Sept. 6: Power Rangers: Space Patrol Delta from THQ Sept. 6: Rebelstar Tactical Command from Namco Sept. 12: Scooby-Doo! Unmasked from THQ Sept. 13: Lego Bionicle: Maze of Shadows from THQ Sept. 19: DK: King of Swing from Nintendo Sept. 19: Tak: The Great Juju Challenge from THQ Sept. 22: Whac-A-Mole from Activision September: Disney's Cinderella: Magical Dreams from Buena Vista Games September: Rayman Classics from Ubisoft September: The Berenstain Bears and the Spooky Old Tree from Namco September: Ultimate Arcade Games from Telegames September: Ultimate Spider-Man from Activision Q3: Barbie and the Magic of Pegasus from Vivendi Q3: Barbie SuperPack from Vivendi Oct. 4: Bratz: Rock Angelz from THQ Oct. 4: everGirl…your way to play! from THQ Oct. 4: Ford Racing 3 from Destination Oct. 4: SRS: Street Racing Syndicate from Destination Oct. 17: Fairly OddParents: Clash with the Anti-World from THQ Oct. 18: Chicken Shoot 1 from Destination Oct. 18: Snood 2: On Vacation from Destination Oct. 18: TY 3 - The Tasmanian Tiger from Activision Oct. 26: Nicktoons Unite! from THQ October: Backyard Skateboarding 2006 from Atari October: Disney's Chicken Little from Buena Vista Games October: Driv3r from Atari October: Duel Masters: Shadow of the Code from Atari October: Gunstar Super Heroes from Sega October: Mega Man Zero 4 from Capcom October: Teen Titans from Majesco October: Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas: The Pumpkin King from Buena Vista Games October: Ultimate Puzzle Games from Telegames October: Zatch Bell! from Bandai Nov. 1: SeaWorld: Shamu's Big Adventure from Activision Nov. 1: The Incredibles: Rise of the Underminer from THQ Nov. 7: Donkey Kong Country 3 from Nintendo Nov. 8: Chicken Shoot 2 from Destination Nov. 8: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire from Electronic Arts November: Atomic Betty from Namco November: Disney's The Proud Family from Buena Vista Games November: King Kong from Ubisoft November: Need for Speed: Most Wanted from Electronic Arts November: The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe from Buena Vista Games November: Totally Spies from Atari November: Trollz: Hair Affair from Ubisoft Dec. 5: Dr. Mario / Puzzle League from Nintendo Dec. 5: Mario Tennis: Power Tour from Nintendo Fall: Shrek SuperSlam from Activision Fall: SpongeBob SquarePants: Lights, Camera, PANTS! from THQ Fall: The Sims 2 from Electronic Arts Fall: Tony Hawk (working title) from Activision Fall: Winx Club from Konami Holiday 2005: Backyard Football 2006 from Atari Q4: Ed, Edd and Eddy: The MisEdventures from Midway Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Monday, August 22 2005 18:32 PM [Top] Nintendo DS Launch Schedule [ Nintendo ] NIntendo has put up the latest list of upcoming DS releases through the end of this year and into early 2006. And here it is. Aug. 22: Advance Wars: Dual Strike from Nintendo Aug. 22: Nintendogs from Nintendo Aug. 23: Pac n' Roll from Namco August: Yu-Gi-Oh! Nightmare Troubadour from Konami Sept. 19: Tak: The Great Juju Challenge from THQ Sept. 26: Trace Memory from Nintendo September: Lunar Dragon Song from Ubisoft September: Ultimate Spider-Man from Activision Oct. 17: Scooby-Doo! Unmasked from THQ Oct. 24: Metroid Prime Pinball from Nintendo Oct. 24: Real Time Conflict: Shogun Empires from Namco October: Marvel Nemesis: Rise of the Imperfects from Electronic Arts October: Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney from Capcom October: Texas Hold 'Em from Majesco October: Trauma Center: Under the Knife from Atlus Nov. 1: SeaWorld: Shamu's Big Adventure from Activision Nov. 1: The Incredibles: Rise of the Underminer from THQ Nov. 7: SpongeBob SquarePants: The Yellow Avenger from THQ Nov. 9: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire from Electronic Arts Nov. 14: Mario Kart DS from Nintendo Nov. 28: Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time from Nintendo November: Disney's Kim Possible: Kimmunicator from Buena Vista Games November: Dragon Ball Z: Supersonic Warriors 2 from Atari November: King Kong from Ubisoft November: Mega Man Battle Network 5: Double Team from Capcom November: Need for Speed: Most Wanted from Electronic Arts November: Pac-Man World 3 from Namco November: SBK: Snowboard Kids DS from Atlus November: Sonic Rush from Sega November: The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe from Buena Vista Games November: Viewtiful Joe Double Trouble from Capcom Dec. 5: Animal Crossing from Nintendo December: Golden Nugget Casino from Majesco December: Ultimate Card Games from Telegames Fall: ATV: Quad Frenzy from Majesco Fall: Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow from Konami Fall: Dig Dug Digging Strike from Namco Fall: Dragon Booster from Konami Fall: Frogger: Helmet Chaos from Konami Fall: Shrek SuperSlam from Activision Fall: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 3: Mutant Nightmare from Konami Fall: The Sims 2 from Electronic Arts Fall: Tony Hawk (working title) from Activision Fall: Zoo Tycoon from THQ Q4: Blades of Thunder 2 from Summitsoft Q4: Mini RC Rally from Summitsoft Q4: Texas Hold 'Em Poker Pack from Summitsoft January: Age of Empires: The Age of Kings from Majesco January: Bust-A-Move from Majesco January: Guilty Gear Dust Strikers from Majesco Q1 2006: Dynasty Warriors (working title) from Koei Q1 2006: Metroid Prime Hunters from Nintendo Q1 2006: Ultimate Brain Games from Telegames Early 2006: Nicktoons Unite! from THQ Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Monday, August 22 2005 18:29 PM [Top] Nintendogs Ships Across America [ Nintendo ] Today's launch of Nintendogs marks the end of the summer doldrums and the beginning of the “dog days” of summer. The three versions of the cool puppy simulation, made exclusively for Nintendo DS, hit stores today and herald the beginning of a hit parade of games for all three of Nintendo's video game systems through the end of the year. "You can only let sleeping dogs lie for so long, and these Nintendogs are ready to play,"says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "Nintendo players will be howling with delight all the way through the holidays with Nintendogs and the depth and breadth of games available on all Nintendo systems." Look for your favorite Nintendogs pack to hit shelves tomorrow. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Monday, August 22 2005 18:27 PM [Top] Happy Birthday Eric! [ GameCube Café ] Happy Birthday Eric! Our newsman and my co-news-editor turns 22 today. It seems just like yesterday he was 21... But on a more serious note, all of us at GCC wish Eric a very happy birthday. Eric's a great news person, and he's a fantastic Senior News Editor. Go out and enjoy yourself today, you deserve it. As always, you drop by the chat and wish him well. Joe McCollum -- Posted on Sunday, August 21 2005 19:12 PM [Top] Details of Nintendo Wi-Fi Revealed [ Puissance-Nintendo ] Jim Merrick, head of marketing for Nintendo of Europe, revealed some of the details for the upcoming Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service and described how it will work with the Nintendo DS. First, he reiterated that the service will be completely free of charge for all Nintendo games, although 3rd party companies are free to charge for games if they want to. Merrick said the only way he could see companies do this is if the game is an MMORPG and requires servers for proper usage, which could incur fees that players may pay for: however, Nintendo will not take any percentage of these fees and leave all of the business to the third-parties. In reference with how matchmaking will work, Merrick said that players could compete with either people they know or face off against people they don't know of similar skill levels, or anyone entirely. The easier way to add a friend to a buddy list is to do so through a normal wireless connection to another DS, but there will be a way to do so over the Wi-Fi connection. Merrick stated that the interface with Wi-Fi connection will be completely simplified, with no need for a username or password. Players will simply make use of their DS name as their ID while online, and will be able to add people to the buddy list through a one-time number. Also, for players that want to use different names on different games, that ability will be allowed as well. Merrick also stated that Nintendo wants to make sure that the online experience is the same as the gaming experience, as every game will have its own online interface to make the connection seamless. Merrick then stated that the DS will make use of different profiles so gamers can log onto the service from different locations without difficulty. Some of these locations will include Nintendo proprietary hotspots the company plans to install in retail locations and shopping malls worldwide. Merrick also stated that these locations will make use of downloadable game demos and other items, so that gamers can try out titles before they purchase them. Merrick also stated that the company is looking into the DS Speak technology shown at E3 for use in games. He then stated that Mario Kart DS will be the first game to launch with the service, followed by Tony Hawk DS from Activision later in the year and Animal Crossing DS in 2006, with many more to come. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, August 19 2005 22:46 PM [Top] Fourth Nintendogs? [ IGN DS ] In the latest list of games given to the ESRB for a rating, a new and previously unknown title was given an "E" for Everyone. The title, added by NOA, is Nintendogs: Holiday Edition. So far no confirmation from Nintendo, but it looks like they're planning a Christmas edition of the doggy delight. The other three versions are scheduled to ship August 22. Joe McCollum -- Posted on Friday, August 19 2005 22:12 PM [Top] FIFA '06 Announced [ Electronic Arts ] EA has announced that its yearly soccer sensation, FIFA Soccer, will be hitting stores in the US this fall. As always, the title will feature numerous teams from all over the world, as well as tighter gameplay and improved graphics. The game will also feature a trio of cover athletes: Mexican standout Omar Bravo, Brazilian superstar Ronaldinho, and American wunderkind Freddy Adu. The game will also feature an electic array of licensed music from across the globe, featuring artist such as Oasis (UK), Jamiroquai (UK), Röyksopp (Norway), Carlinhos Brown (Brazil), Subsonica (Italy), Boy (Canada), Kinky (Mexico) and Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley (Jamaica) among others. Watch for FIFA '06 to dribble into stores for the GameCube, Game Boy Advance, and for the first time, the Nintendo DS. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, August 19 2005 21:45 PM [Top] Konami Confirms Lost in Blue for Europe [ Konami of Europe ] Konami of Europe will continue its support of the Nintendo DS with the release of the unique Lost in Blue this November. Lost in Blue makes full use of the Nintendo system's dual-screen and touch panel interface to create one of the most original and engrossing role-playing titles seen on any format. Assuming control of a young hero who finds himself awash on a seemingly uninhabited island after a disastrous sea incident, the player is charged with escaping from this apparently deserted paradise. Where Lost in Blue differs from most role-playing games is in its stunning use of the Nintendo DS's touch screen capabilities. Using the system's stylus, players have full control as they fish, hunt, dig and even milk goats in their hunt for food. These functions are shown as a series of mini-games designed to test the player's reflexes and deftness of touch, with each character offering particular skills which must be exploited. Lost in Blue will be released for Nintendo DS in November. Of course, our E3 DVD has some exclusive gameplay footage of Lost in Blue, so if you're interested in the title and want to see more, check out the DVD. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Thursday, August 18 2005 22:35 PM [Top] Game Boy Micro Japanese Launch Info [ Nintendo of Japan ] Nintendo has revealed more information about the Game Boy Micro, this time dealing with Nintendo's home nation of Japan. The launch of the GBM will take place in that country on September 13th, about a week before the North American launch, at a price of 12,000 yen. A release from Nintendo also revealed some pictures of the console, as well as revealing the first accessories. The system will feature a specialized link cable for GBM-to-GBM connection, as well as an adapter so the system can be used with the original GBA link cable. Lastly, there will be a specialized wireless adapter for the GBM for use with GBA games that use a wireless feature. Check out the images of these devices, as well as new shots of the GBM hardware by clicking the links below. Images: Game Boy Micro Front and Back View Game Boy Micro Top and Bottom View Game Boy Micro Right and Left View Game Boy Micro Wireless Adapter Game Boy Micro Link Cable Game Boy Micro GBA Link Cable Adapter Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, August 18 2005 22:31 PM [Top] New Metroid Prime Hunters Trailer [ GameCube Café ] One of the most hotly-anticipated games for the Nintendo DS console, Metroid Prime Hunters combines fast-paced multiplayer shooter action with one of Nintendo's most beloved franchises. Playing as one of numerous bounty hunters, including Samus herself, players will blast, bomb, and roll their way to victory in numerous multiplayer modes and arenas. The trailer below shows a little bit more about the game as well as introducing us to some of the bounty hunters Samus will be going up against. Check it out below by clicking on to view in you browser or right-clicking to save in your hard drive. Metroid Prime Hunters will hit stores this fall. Video: Metroid Prime Hunters Trailer (5.1 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, August 18 2005 22:16 PM [Top] New Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow Trailer [ GameCube Café ] The year is 2036, one year after the events of Castlevania®: Aria of Sorrow. Soma Cruz finds himself at the center of a mysterious cults plan to resurrect their evil lord and master Dracula. In order to save himself and protect the lives of those he loves, Soma must infiltrate the enemys home base, a towering replica of Dracula's castle that is teaming with monstrous creatures. Players will defeat foes with the Magic Seal system using the touch screen and can exchange souls with other players via the DS wireless connection. Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow features an incredible musical score, next-gen graphics & stunning special effects. Check out the latest trailer for this game below by clicking on it to view in your browser or right-clicking to save in your hard drive. Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow will hit stores for the Nintendo DS this October. Video: Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow Trailer (9.0 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, August 18 2005 22:12 PM [Top] New Call of Duty 2: Big Red One Screenshots [ Activision ] The hallmark cinematic intensity of Call of Duty returns with a more complete gameplay experience than ever before. Experience a wide variety of missions on land, sea and in the air, with the aid of more than three-dozen authentic American, Italian, French and German weapons. Charge into battle as Allied and Axis planes duel overhead, artillery explosions shake the ground and choke the air, and bullets and shrapnel streak past squadmates. Experience war-torn Europe and Africa, from the blistering desert expanses of Tunisia and Libya to the beautiful yet deadly countrysides of Italy, France, Belgium and Germany. Players are thrust into the role and story of a member of the U.S. Army’s famed Fighting 1st Infantry, the Big Red One, America’s most heroic and decorated infantry division. Experience the camaraderie of a single tight-knit squad, bound together through the chaos of battle. Call of Duty 2: Big Red One will hit stores for the GameCube this October, and you can check out the latest screens of this hotly anticipated military shooter below. UPDATED: It has now been announced that film composer Graeme Revell will write the score of this game. Revell is the composer of such films as Pitch Black and The Chronicles of Riddick, and this is his first video game project. Images: Call of Duty 2: Big Red One Screenshot 1 Call of Duty 2: Big Red One Screenshot 2 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 18:25 PM [Top] Super Mario Strikers European Release Date [ Nintendo of Europe ] Nintendo of Europe has announced the release date of the upcoming Super Mario Strikers: the soccer game featuring tons of Mario characters and insane (and we mean INSANE) action. The game will hit stores on November 18th, and will receive a name change as well. The game will be called Mario Smash Football in the continent, considering the sport of soccer is, of course, known as football in Europe. The game will also be available in a bundle with an exclusive pearl white GameCube this fall.Expect a US release of this hotly-anticipated title by the end of the year. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 17:15 PM [Top] Game Boy Micro European Launch Announced [ Nintendo of Europe ] Hours after Nintendo announced the launch date and price for North America of the Game Boy Micro, we now have gained word on the European release date and price. The Game Boy Micro will be released in Europe on November 4th, and will cost 69.99 GBP in Britain and 99.99 Euros in the rest of the continent. What is most interesting is that instead of launching in simply two colors, the GBM will hit Europe in four shades - Silver, Blue, Pink and Green. No word yet if these colors will be making their way to the US. Check out images of the European Game Boy Micro colors below. Images: European Game Boy Micros Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 17:08 PM [Top] DS Finds More Colors in Europe [ Nintendo of Europe ] Nintendo of Europe has announced that the Nintendo DS, which has seen record-settingsales in the region since its launch, will be joined by two new colors (or is it "colours"?) very soon. The normal silver DS will be joined by new models colored pink and blue, which will go on sale on October 7th. The blue DS is identical to the Electric Blue DS released in the US earlier in the year, while the new Pink DS seems to be a different color than the pink DS released in Japan. Check out the images of these two new DSes below. No word on if we will be receiving the Pink DS in the US as of yet. Images: Pink DS Image Blue DS Image Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 17:07 PM [Top] New 007: From Russia With Love Media [ Electronic Arts ] The year is 1963. Your name is Bond, James Bond. And your mission is to slip inside the dangerous and debonair world of the original 007 played by none other than Sean Connery. Travel to exotic destinations such as Istanbul and the Orient Express, connect with a beautiful Russian double agent, and immerse yourself into an authentic re-creation of the classic Bond world. In missions that combine driving and stealth, delve deeper into the plot of the legendary film in an experience that will leave you shaken... and stirred. Check out the latest screens from this game below, including some showing off the game's multiplayer mode for the first time. Also, there's a new video you can click onto view in your browser or right-click on to save to your hard drive. Images: 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 1 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 2 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 3 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 4 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 5 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 6 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 7 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 8 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 9 007: From Russia With Love Screenshot 10 Video: 007: From Russia With Love Trailer (5.9 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 16:41 PM [Top] First Confirmed Revolution Launch Title [ Ubisoft ] It has been up in the air as of late as to if Ubisoft will even be supporting the Revolution at all. Today, those worries can be put to rest as Ubisoft has announced that they will indeed be supporting Nintendo's next console (due for release late 2006). To show they mean business, Ubisoft has said that the next installment of the Splinter Cell series (currently without a subtitle) will be launching with the system. This is the first confirmed game for the launch of the Revolution. Hopefully it won't be a year before we hear what Nintendo plans to release with the system. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 16:14 PM [Top] Metroid Prime Hunters Screenshots [ Nintendo ] A mighty race, now extinct, has left behind relics of their once-powerful warrior culture. Now bounty hunters from across the galaxy are racing against each other to lay claim to these relics to harness their power for themselves. Players will compete in a series of action-packed arenas with at least three modes of play, with game-play features similar to Deathmatch and King of the Hill. Players can link wirelessly with up to three friends using only one game card. Metroid Prime Hunters features six new bounty hunters, including Noxus, Spire and Kanden, fight against Samus in both single-player and multiplayer modes. All hunters have their own unique back stories, weapons (from sniper beam to mortar to shotgun) and fighting styles (i.e. stealth, melee, sniper, etc.). Single-player details will be revealed at a later date. Check out the latest screens from this DS shooter below, and watch for Metroid Prime Hunters to hit stores this fall. Images: Metroid Prime Hunters Screenshot 1 Metroid Prime Hunters Screenshot 2 Metroid Prime Hunters Screenshot 3 Metroid Prime Hunters Screenshot 4 Metroid Prime Hunters Screenshot 5 Metroid Prime Hunters Screenshot 6 Metroid Prime Hunters Screenshot 7 Metroid Prime Hunters Screenshot 8 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 15:42 PM [Top] Donkey Kong Country 3 Screens and Art [ Nintendo ] One of Donkey Kong's most famous adventures is reborn on the Game Boy Advance with Donkey Kong Country 3. Developed by Rare Ltd, Donkey Kong Country 3 features ponytailed powerhouse Dixie Kong teaming up with the young, yet massive Kiddy Kong to save Donkey and Diddy from the evil clutches of King K.Rool and the Kremling horde. Players will battle numerous enemies using numerous attacks, various animal partners, and barrels of all shapes and sizes. Also, players will take part in numerous mini-games created exclusively for the GBA version of the game. Donkey Kong Country 3 for the GBA will hit stores in the fall, and you can take a look at some new screens below. Images: Donkey Kong Country 3 Screenshot 1 Donkey Kong Country 3 Screenshot 2 Donkey Kong Country 3 Screenshot 3 Donkey Kong Country 3 Screenshot 4 Donkey Kong Country 3 Screenshot 5 Donkey Kong Country 3 Screenshot 6 Donkey Kong Country 3 Screenshot 7 Donkey Kong Country 3 Screenshot 8 Donkey Kong Country 3 Character Art 1 Donkey Kong Country 3 Character Art 2 Donkey Kong Country 3 Character Art 3 Donkey Kong Country 3 Character Art 4 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 15:36 PM [Top] New Super Mario Bros. Screenshots [ Nintendo ] The first new 2-D Mario platformer since Super Mario World® has arrived. Boasting incredible 3-D graphics to accompany classic 2-D game play, this fast-paced adventure will have Mario fans cheering as they make their way over fields, under water, through castles and into the air. New and familiar enemies are everywhere, not to mention mind-blowing challenges made possible by the dual screens of the Nintendo DS. Not only that, but players can link wirelessly with a friend to play as Mario and Luigi in multiplayer mode. Check out the latest screens of this hotly anticipated DS title below. Images: New Super Mario Bros. Screenshot 1 New Super Mario Bros. Screenshot 2 New Super Mario Bros. Screenshot 3 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 15:24 PM [Top] Odama Screenshots and Art [ Nintendo ] The main character in Odama is Yamanouchi Kagetora, the general credited with creating the Way of Ninten, a philosophy that puts the greater good above the individual’s needs. With this philosophy to guide him, he finds that his individual soldiers can band together to create a force strong enough to defeat even the most powerful enemy. When his nemesis, a general named Kendare, kills his father, Kagetora exacts his revenge against a vast army with only 30 soldiers in his command. Kagetora has a secret weapon, however – a legendary weapon called the Odama. Odama does not have an official release date but will most likely be released later this year or early next year. Hit the links for the new screens and art. Images: Odama Screenshot 1 Odama Screenshot 2 Odama Screenshot 3 Odama Screenshot 4 Odama Screenshot 5 Odama Screenshot 6 Odama Screenshot 7 Odama Screenshot 8 Odama Screenshot 9 Odama Art 1 Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 15:23 PM [Top] Mario Kart DS Screens and Art [ Nintendo ] Time to race...no wires attached. The acclaimed Mario Kart series has gone wireless, letting players race and battle with up to eight karts at once, regardless of whether everyone has a game card. An all-star cast that includes Mario, Luigi, Peach, Yoshi, Donkey Kong, Wario, Bowser and Toad will round out a truly all-star lineup of more than 30 courses drawn from every Mario Kart game. That's right – players will tour courses from Super Mario Kart, Mario Kart 64, Mario Kart: Super Circuit and Mario Kart: Double Dash!!, not to mention brand-new tracks and arenas. With all the crazy items and frantic speed players have come to expect, this game is a Mario Kart fan's dream. The game has a new dimension of fun, since players can battle others around the world by connecting to Nintendo's new wireless gaming service, Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, via Wi-Fi. Check out the latest screens of what promises to be a massive hit for the DS below, and watch for Mario Kart DS when it races into stores this fall. Images: Mario Kart DS Screenshot 1 Mario Kart DS Screenshot 2 Mario Kart DS Screenshot 3 Mario Kart DS Screenshot 4 Mario Kart DS Screenshot 5 Mario Kart DS Screenshot 6 Mario Kart DS Screenshot 7 Mario Kart DS Screenshot 8 Mario Kart DS Character Art 1 Mario Kart DS Character Art 2 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 15:21 PM [Top] Battalion Wars Screenshots [ Nintendo ] Battalion Wars blazes onto Nintendo GameCube with a platoon of real-time strategy (RTS) action. Whether players are hoofing it across the plains as a lone infantryman or commanding an entire platoon from atop an armored tank, the challenge is real and the mission is critical. There has never been a real-time strategy title like this before. Battalion Wars contains more than 20 unique missions, each with a number of sub-quests and goals. Once in a mission, players can complete it any way they choose. Need to blow up a tank? Go the stealthy route and send a squad through the forest to ambush it from behind, or just hop into a tank and charge! Real-time strategy meets full-on action. Battalion Wars will be released on September 19th. Hit the links for the new screens. Images: Battalion Wars Screenshot 1 Battalion Wars Screenshot 2 Battalion Wars Screenshot 3 Battalion Wars Screenshot 4 Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 15:16 PM [Top] DDR: Mario Mix Screens and Art [ Nintendo ] Someone has stolen the Music Keys and released the music they held. Without the Music Keys, the unstable power of the music is wreaking havoc on the land. Mario must recover them before the chaos destroys the entire Mushroom Kingdom! Players shake their things to more than 25 dance-flavored songs, from classic Nintendo themes to familiar favorites. With five difficulty levels, dancers of all abilities will be able to get into the groove. Players control Dance Dance Revolution: Mario Mix by stepping on different arrows on the Action Pad. Players can finally experience the thrill of stomping Goombas and other enemies firsthand. As players clear songs, they will unlock more songs, minigames and difficulty levels. DDR: Mario Mix will be released on October 24th. Hit the links for the new screenshots and art work. Images: DDR: Mario Mix Screenshot 1 DDR: Mario Mix Screenshot 2 DDR: Mario Mix Screenshot 3 DDR: Mario Mix Art 1 DDR: Mario Mix Art 2 DDR: Mario Mix Art 3 DDR: Mario Mix Art 4 DDR: Mario Mix Art 5 DDR: Mario Mix Art 6 Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 15:09 PM [Top] Advance Wars: Dual Strike Screens and Art [ Nintendo ] Advance Wars, the award-winning turn-based strategy game, makes its debut on the Nintendo DS. Players lead their new Commanding Officers to fend off the Black Hole Army's latest invasion. With massive battles that sweep across both of the DS screens, Advance Wars: Dual Strike will change the face of war forever. On the heels of its last defeat, the nefarious Black Hole Army has fallen under the control of a deadly new commanding officer. He has sent its new COs to attack the nations of Wars World once again, and it's up to the allied armies of Orange Star, Blue Moon, Yellow Comet and Green Earth to put an end to Black Hole once and for all. Advance Wars: Dual Strike will hit stores for the Nintendo DS in the US next week on August 22nd, and you can check out a new batch of screens and character art from the game below. Images: Advance Wars: Dual Strike Screenshot 1 Advance Wars: Dual Strike Screenshot 2 Advance Wars: Dual Strike Screenshot 3 Advance Wars: Dual Strike Screenshot 4 Advance Wars: Dual Strike Screenshot 5 Advance Wars: Dual Strike Screenshot 6 Advance Wars: Dual Strike Screenshot 7 Advance Wars: Dual Strike Character Art 1 Advance Wars: Dual Strike Character Art 2 Advance Wars: Dual Strike Character Art 3 Advance Wars: Dual Strike Character Art 4 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 15:09 PM [Top] Mario Superstar Baseball Screens and Art [ Nintendo ] Continuing the tradition started by such games as Mario Power Tennis and Mario Golf: Toadstool Tour, Mario Superstar Baseball brings a new brand of fun to the world of baseball. The game combines an intuitive hitting system with easy-to-learn fielding and pitching controls – making it an arcade-like experience that will appeal to baseball novices and hard-core fans alike. Players can try their hands at Challenge Mode, where they must wander the land clearing baseball-related trials. Or they can sit down for a game in the Toy Field, where they hit balls at circles in the outfield to earn coins and other prizes. With multiplayer options for up to four players, wild, character-specific power moves, crazy mini-games and more than 50 characters from the Mario universe, Mario Superstar Baseball is sure to be the new favorite pastime. Mario Superstar Baseball will be released later this month, August 29th. Hit the links below to check out the awesome new screens and art. Images: Mario Superstar Baseball Art 1 Mario Superstar Baseball Art 2 Mario Superstar Baseball Art 3 Mario Superstar Baseball Art 4 Mario Superstar Baseball Art 5 Mario Superstar Baseball Art 6 Mario Superstar Baseball Art 7 Mario Superstar Baseball Art 8 Mario Superstar Baseball Screenshot 1 Mario Superstar Baseball Screenshot 2 Mario Superstar Baseball Screenshot 3 Mario Superstar Baseball Screenshot 4 Mario Superstar Baseball Screenshot 5 Mario Superstar Baseball Screenshot 6 Mario Superstar Baseball Screenshot 7 Mario Superstar Baseball Screenshot 8 Mario Superstar Baseball Screenshot 9 Mario Superstar Baseball Screenshot 10 Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 14:58 PM [Top] Super Mario Strikers Screens and Art [ Nintendo ] Nintendo's foray into sports titles continues with Super Mario Strikers, a new soccer game that's unlike anything ever to hit the pitch. Whether players are freezing their opponents with an ice-cold shell, unleashing a spiny shell on their hapless opponents or making entire teams flee in terror with a roving Chain Chomp, they're sure to see something new around every corner kick. Super Mario Strikers features all the favorite characters from the Nintendo universe, as well as four-person multiplayer action that will have players and their friends cheering all night long. Get ready for the world cup of gaming. Mario Super Strikers does not have a release date yet but it is likely to hit shelves sometime later this year. Images: Super Mario Strikers Screenshot 1 Super Mario Strikers Screenshot 2 Super Mario Strikers Screenshot 3 Super Mario Strikers Art 1 Super Mario Strikers Art 2 Super Mario Strikers Art 3 Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 14:49 PM [Top] Game Boy Micro Price Revealed [ Nintendo ] Fall's hippest new tech-cessory won't be found on a fashion runway, but it will turn every head just the same. Game Boy Micro starts shipping to stores nationally Sept. 19 at an MSRP of $99.99, and promises to be one of the most sought-after gotta-haves heading into fall and the holiday season. The edgy hardware will come in both silver and black versions, each with three removable, fun faceplates so users can personalize their Micro depending on their mood. "Game Boy goes anywhere, and now it fits anywhere," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "The incredibly small size of Game Boy Micro belies the powerful technology shrunk into a hip new casing with an intensely bright screen; and at under $100, it's a must-have." Game Boy Micro measures just 4 inches wide, 2 inches long and 0.7 inches thin. It weighs 2.8 ounces, about the weight of 80 paper clips. Yet it boasts the same power as previous Game Boy Advance models, complete with the ability to play all Game Boy Advance games, a library of more than 700 titles. Game Boy Micro features a 2-inch, crystal-clear screen, and Start/Select buttons that glow with the cool, neon-like blue found on many cell phones. Images: Game Boy Micro "Black" Faceplate Game Boy Micro "Ammonite" Faceplate Game Boy Micro "Camo" Faceplate Game Boy Micro "Flame" Faceplate Game Boy Micro "Ladybug" Faceplate Game Boy Micro "Silver" Faceplate Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 13:51 PM [Top] XBox 360 Pricing Announced [ Microsoft ] Confirming rumors that the price point of the XBox 360 would be revealed at today's Leipzig Games Convention in Germany, Microsoft did announce the price point of this system - or rather, price points. For a basic XBox 360 system with the console, a wired controller, faceplate, and XBox Live Silver membership, it will cost $299.99. However, an upgraded bundle can also be purchased for $399.99, featuring the console, wireless controller, faceplate, XBox Live Silver membership, 30 GB detachable hard drive, headset, HD video cables, and a remote. Still no word on a launch date for the system, however. Stick with us here at Café for more coverage of the Leipzig Gamers Convention, as Nintendo is scheduled to reveal more on the Revolution console. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 17 2005 13:45 PM [Top] Gunstar Super Heroes Trailer [ GameCube Café ] The long-awaited sequel to the Genesis classic, Gunstar Super Heroes promises to be a game that will send the GBA out on a high note. Developed by Treasure, the company behind the excellent Astro Boy: Omega Factor, Gunstar Super Heroes features turbo-driven shooting action, terrifying, gigantic enemies, and graphics that push the Game Boy Advance to their absolute limit. Playing as either Red or Blue, two futuristic soldiers, gamers strike against evil and towards absolute victory. Check out the awesome looking trailer for this game below by saving it to your hard drive, and for more information you can check out our own Will Szwagiel's preview here. Video: Gunstar Super Heroes Trailer (8.7 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 16 2005 23:55 PM [Top] New Feel The Magic 2 Screenshots [ Sega of Japan ] While we revealed the first screens of this game in scans from Famitsu that were posted on the site, here are some high-quality screens from the upcoming "Where Do Babies Come From?" the spiritual sequel to Feel the Magic: XX/XY, on the Nintendo DS. Once again, the path to love is a series of wild minigames as this time, the hero must face his love for one, while challenging the love of another. Expect more craziness, more insanity, and more catchy theme songs than ever before. Feel The Magic 2 will be released in Japan this October, with a US release soon to follow. Images: Feel The Magic 2 Screenshot 1 Feel The Magic 2 Screenshot 2 Feel The Magic 2 Screenshot 3 Feel The Magic 2 Screenshot 4 Feel The Magic 2 Screenshot 5 Feel The Magic 2 Screenshot 6 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 16 2005 22:39 PM [Top] Dig Dug: Digging Strike Confirmed for US [ Namco ] Namco has announced that the spiritual sequel to last year's Mr. Driller: Drill Spirits will be making it's way to US Nintendo DS systems. Dig Dug: Drilling Strike is a new game based on the classic arcade titles Dig Dug and Dig Dug II, combining the fast-paced puzzle gameplay of both titles to create a unique experience. The game will also feature wireless multiplayer capabilities. Watch for Dig Dug: Drilling Strike when it digs into stores in the fall. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 16 2005 22:07 PM [Top] Game Boy Micro Release Date Announced [ Nintendo ] While Nintendo has already made gamers happy (DS price drop) and sad (Zelda delayed) today, they've also unleashed one more piece of news gamers may feel indifferent on. The Game Boy Micro, the GBA SP's little brother and Nintendo's big surprise at E3, will be released next month on September 19th. No word yet on a launch price, but that should be coming soon. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 16 2005 21:49 PM [Top] From Russia With Love Boxart [ Electronic Arts ] The year is 1963. Your name is Bond, James Bond. And your mission is to slip inside the dangerous and debonair world of the original 007 played by none other than Sean Connery. Travel to exotic destinations such as Istanbul and the Orient Express, connect with a beautiful Russian double agent, and immerse yourself into an authentic re-creation of the classic Bond world. In missions that combine driving and stealth, delve deeper into the plot of the legendary film in an experience that will leave you shaken... and stirred. EA confirms that this boxart is 99% final, with the final 1% being no more than possible logo placement and color changes, and, of course, and ESRB rating. Images: From Russia With Love Boxart Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, August 16 2005 11:10 AM [Top] New Zelda Screens [ Nintendo ] As if an apology for the wholly disappointing, though not wholly unexpected, news that we wouldn't see Zelda until next year, Nintendo has graced us with seven new screenshots from Twilight Princess. I don't think I need to give you Nintendo's game summary for this one... Images: The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Screenshot 1 The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Screenshot 2 The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Screenshot 3 The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Screenshot 4 The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Screenshot 5 The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Screenshot 6 The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Screenshot 7 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Tuesday, August 16 2005 10:58 AM [Top] Zelda For 2006 [ IGN Cube ] Sad news coming out of IGN Cube today for Zelda fans. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess has been pushed into 2006. According to the press release IGN has obtained: "After much discussion, the Zelda development team has requested extra time to add new levels, more depth and even higher quality to Zelda: Twilight Princess," said Nintendo of America's vice president of corporate affairs, Perrin Kaplan. "Consequently, we're announcing a new global launch in 2006, after the conclusion of this fiscal year (March 31). We'll provide a specific date at a later point in time. While this may come as a disappointment to many eager fans, it will absolutely enrich the game and make it a multi-million seller." Not sure why only IGN got this, but Nintendo's press site does indeed list Zelda for "2006." We'll have more as it becomes available. Joe McCollum -- Posted on Tuesday, August 16 2005 9:42 AM [Top] DS Price Drop [ Nintendo ] Effective August 21, Nintendo is dropping the price of the DS for a retail price of $129.99. This comes just a day before the US launch of the Japanese hit, Nintendogs. "The new price and the arrival of a mega hit like Nintendogs give Nintendo DS a one-two punch that will thrill consumers," says Reggie Fils-Aime, Nintendo of America's executive vice president of sales & marketing. "Consumers know Nintendo offers the best in the hand-held video game industry, and this news should make them very happy." Certainly good news if anyone's been on the fence due to the price. Joe McCollum -- Posted on Tuesday, August 16 2005 9:36 AM [Top] New Chaos Field Screenshots [ O~3 Entertainment ] First released in the waning days of the Dreamcast and then ported to the Nintendo GameCube in Japan, Chaos Field is an exciting, high-action space shooter reminiscent of games like Ikaruga and Nanostray. Featuring beautiful 3D graphics, a pulse-pounding soundtrack, and some of the fastest twitch shooting action ever seen in a video game, this Sega-developed title promises to be a hit with shooter fans when it hits stores this fall. Check out some new screenshots of Chaos Field below. Images: Chaos Field Screenshot 1 Chaos Field Screenshot 2 Chaos Field Screenshot 3 Chaos Field Screenshot 4 Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, August 15 2005 17:20 PM [Top] Nintendo Sales Numbers [ Nintendo ] The following are sales numbers released by Nintendo and collected by both Nintendo and The NPD Group. U.S. DS Hardware: 1.89 million units DS Software: 3.38million units Worldwide DS Hardware: 6.65 million units DS Software: 15.82 million units U.S. GCN Hardware: 9.7 million units GCN Software: 74.6 million units Worldwide GCN Hardware: 18.76 million units GCN Software: 160.60 million units U.S. GBA/GBA SP Hardware: 29 million units GBA Software: 122 million units Worldwide GBA/GBA SP Hardware: 67.77 million units GBA Software: 280.03 million units Total Worldwide Total Hardware: more than 354 million units Total Software: more than 2 billion units Matthew Silver -- Posted on Monday, August 15 2005 14:40 PM [Top] Bubble Bobble Revolution Screens [ Rising Star Games ] The classic Taito arcade title Bubble Bobble will be the next videogaming legend to be updated for Rising Star's "Revolution" games brand on the Nintendo DS. Bubble Bobble Revolution will be released for the Nintendo DS in October 2005, bringing with it a range of amazing new features including a brand new multiplayer mode for up to four players. You can expect both classic and new gameplay mechanics featuring series mainstays Bub and Bob, along with at least one new character. Weapons include classic Water, Fire, and Lightning Bubbles, as well as a new Ghost Bubble, and voice-activated microphone techniques. As well as a four-player competitive mode, two-player co-op is available as well. By including so many new features, Bubble Bobble Revolution builds on its stellar legacy to push the franchise forward whilst exploiting the many benefits that arise from the unique features of the Nintendo DS hardware and is set to take its position as the rightful heir to Bubble Bobble's permanent entry in videogaming's hall of fame. Images: Bubble Bobble Revolution Screenshot 1 Bubble Bobble Revolution Screenshot 2 Bubble Bobble Revolution Screenshot 3 Bubble Bobble Revolution Screenshot 4 Bubble Bobble Revolution Screenshot 5 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Monday, August 15 2005 13:05 PM [Top] Geist Now Shipping Across North America [ Nintendo ] If you like games that let you blast your way from start to finish, then Geist is definitely NOT for you. The distinctive adventure, developed by n-Space and published by Nintendo, launches today exclusively for Nintendo GameCube. It's the thinking-player's first-person game, where players solve puzzles, overcome obstacles and use their ghostly possession abilities to advance the storyline. "Geist combines the best elements of an unnerving ghost story with an inventive new approach to game play," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "Gamers will be up all night playing, since it's unlikely they'll be able to sleep." Make no mistake: Geist, Rated M for Mature, is no campfire ghost story. It begins with a terrifying experiment that rips the spirit from a counterterrorism expert's body and leaves him an ethereal presence wandering the halls of the Volks Corporation. He must use his newfound powers to uncover the secret of the shadowy agency as he encounters other spirits like himself and tries to reclaim his human form. Expect to see Geist on store shelves starting tomorrow. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Monday, August 15 2005 10:34 AM [Top] Mega Man Battle Network 6 Announced [ Capcom of Japan ] Capcom has announced that, once again, they are at work at an installment in the Mega Man Battle Network series, called Rockman EXE in Japan. Mega Man Battle Network 6 will apparently be the final entry in the series, and as usual there will be plenty of new battle chips to choose from. The game will be for the Game Boy Advance, and more than likely split into two versions like previous games. No word if they will be fused into a DS version later, like MMBN5. Mega Man Battle Network 6 will hit stores for the GBA by the end of the year, with no US release date announced. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, August 11 2005 21:08 PM [Top] Robert Ludlum Re-Bourne in Games [ Vivendi Universal ] Vivendi Universal has announced that they have entered a "long-term" agreement with Ludlum Entertainment, which grants VU the exclusive writes to all of late author Robert Ludlum's works. Ludlum is most famous for his wildly successful Bourne trilogy, with the first two books recently made movies starring Matt Damon, with a third on the way. The deal also gives VU the rights to Ludlum's other novels, most notably his Covert One series. VU CEO Bruce Hack made it clear that the company intends to leverage the license to meet espionage titles like Splinter Cell head-on in the upcoming console generation. "The interest in Robert Ludlum's works is enormous, as evidenced by the worldwide popularity and commercial success of his books and movies. VU Games intends to aggressively establish Ludlum as a top tier games brand with high-quality franchises poised to go head-to-head with other major spy-action games in the industry," Hack said in a statement. It is not clear as to whether or not VU Games also has the rights to the Bourne movie franchise, so whether we see Matt Damon's likeness in the games is still up in the air. No console or release plans were announced, but with VU's history of multi-console support, there is a good possibility we'll see these games hitting Nintendo products. Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Thursday, August 11 2005 12:16 PM [Top] Midway Announces Rampage: Total Destruction [ Midway ] At Midway's press event in Chicago today, Midway had a big surprise up their sleeves: the return of the classic Rampage franchise. In the new game, entitled Rampage: Total Destruction, players will once again take on the roles of mutated humans George (an ape) and Lizzie (a lizard), as they wreck, and oftentimes eat, everything in sight. Developed by Pipeworks Software, the company behind Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee, Rampage: Total Destruction promises to be a classic beatdown of epic proportions when it hits stores for the GameCube in the Spring of 2006. Check out the first screens below. Images: Rampage: Total Destruction Screenshot 1 Rampage: Total Destruction Screenshot 2 Rampage: Total Destruction Screenshot 3 Rampage: Total Destruction Screenshot 4 Rampage: Total Destruction Screenshot 5 Rampage: Total Destruction Screenshot 6 Rampage: Total Destruction Screenshot 7 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 10 2005 23:40 PM [Top] New Prince of Persia 3 Screenshots & Artwork [ Ubisoft ] Ubisoft has seen fit to show us some fresh new screenshots from the upcoming Prince of Persia 3. These screens are all about one thing: Speed Kills, the Splinter Cell-esque way the Prince can kill enemies in an ultra-cool (and often ultra-violent) way. Below are some questions from a Q&A conducted with the PoP3 development team to learn a little more about the Speed Kill system. Q1: What is the Speed Kill System? The Speed Kill System is a whole new gameplay system we’re introducing in POP3. It allows you to perform very dramatic moves that take your enemy down in a single shot. Speed Kills require excellent timing and reflexes but are hugely rewarding. They really make the most of the Prince and Dark Prince’s athletic abilities in fast-paced action-packed sequences. Q2: Why did you develop this new Speed Kill System for POP3? In POP3, the Prince is back in Babylon and finds his city ravaged by war. He soon becomes a fugitive in his hometown, hunted by the numerous and relentless invading army. The Prince must adapt his fighting skills to this new situation and try to take the upper hand by developing new techniques, such as the Speed Kill System. Speed Kill will be a chance for the player to kill one or several enemies in a single shot before engaging in fierce sword combats. Nevertheless, the player will always have the choice between using the Speed Kill System or the expanded Free Form Fighting System that was originally developed for Warrior Within. Q3: What does this new system imply in terms of AI? Speed Kill is about killing your enemy BEFORE being detected. This new system made us rethink the whole AI of the enemies in the game, and the results so far are very impressive. Patrolling enemies will be able to detect the Prince, either by seeing him or by hearing him. If the Prince goes undetected, he will be able to trigger a series of Speed Kill attacks that lead to spectacular finishing moves. The Prince will often have to use his environment and his athletic skills to reach upper positions in order to take his enemies by surprise from above. If patrolling enemies detect the Prince, they will call for reinforcements and the Prince will not be able to trigger his Speed Kills anymore, he will have to fight his enemies heads-on. Q4: In POP3, there are two playable characters: the Prince and the Dark Prince. Will they both use the Speed Kill System? Yes, both the Dark Prince and the Prince will use the Speed Kill System. However, the gameplay mechanism to launch the Speed Kills will vary between the Prince and the Dark Prince as a reflection of their very different personalities. The Dark Prince is a corrupt version of the Prince -- he is ruthless, reckless, and only out for himself. This dark and sadistic personality particularly shines through the violent nature of his Speed Kills. The Dark Prince’s Speed Kills will be launched by a fast-paced combination of buttons, whereas the Prince’s Speed Kills will be based on specific button sequences and very precise timing during a window of opportunity. Also, their finishing moves will be very different as the Prince uses the Dagger of Time for his Speed Kills and the Dark Prince uses the Daggertail, a powerful mid range chain-like weapon. Check out the awesome (and bloody) new screens below, and also definitely check out our E3 DVD for some Prince of Persia 3 footage you won't find anywhere else, including footage of the Speed Kill system (complete with us gawking at it in the commentary track). Prince of Persia 3 will hit stores later this year for all consoles, including the Nintendo GameCube, and is practically assured of yet another M rating. Images: Prince of Persia 3 Screenshot 1 Prince of Persia 3 Screenshot 2 Prince of Persia 3 Screenshot 3 Prince of Persia 3 Screenshot 4 Prince of Persia 3 Screenshot 5 Prince of Persia 3 Speed Kill Artwork Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 10 2005 22:42 PM [Top] New True Crime: New York City Screenshots [ Activision ] Players wield the ultimate power as a rogue street cop in True Crime: New York City. Gamers assume the role of Marcus Reed, a former criminal turned cop, and use and abuse their authority to hunt down the murderer of Marcus’ mentor while also cleaning up Manhattan neighborhoods from Harlem to Chinatown. Undercover investigations weave players through a murderous web of gangs and deceit as they battle crooks, Marcus’ past and everything else the city throws at them. Players bust criminals, take down murderous gangs, extort, interrogate, search and seize and dispense justice however they choose – either by the book or by indulging in the temptations of the job. The player will navigate an expertly recreated Manhattan complete with subways, interiors, internationally recognized landmarks, GPS-accurate streets and real neighborhoods from Hell’s Kitchen to Times Square. The player’s “law enforcement” decisions affect Manhattan’s neighborhoods dynamically: if players let crime go unchecked, the crime rate will soar as the streets fill with trash, potholes and unsavory characters while buildings and foliage deteriorate. Alternately, if players clamp down on crime in a neighborhood, not only will crime rates fall, but visual improvements will indicate their progress as well. True Crime: New York City will be released for the Nintendo GameCube this fall. Check out a fresh batch of screens direct from the GameCube version of the game below. Images: True Crime: New York City Screenshot 1 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 2 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 3 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 4 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 5 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 6 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 7 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 8 True Crime: New York City Screenshot 9 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 10 2005 22:31 PM [Top] King Kong Gameplay Trailers [ GameCube Café ] Ubisoft has released three new King Kong gameplay trailers for the upcoming game, which will be released on November 15th. The trailers show some different aspects of the gameplay, most notably is the fight with the T-Rex. This should be the first anyone has seen of the game unless you happened to be at E3. We couldn't even get video of this at E3 because they wouldn't allow camera crews into their little theatre area where they were showing the trailer. Hit the links to watch the trailers in any browser or right click and save them to your computer. Video: King Kong Gameplay Trailer 1 (17.7 MB) King Kong Gameplay Trailer 2 (17.6 MB) King Kong Gameplay Trailer 3 (17.8 MB) Matthew Silver -- Posted on Wednesday, August 10 2005 13:24 PM [Top] New Pokémon Games Announced [ Gamespot ] Good news for Pokécritter fans...Nintendo has announced not one, not two, but 3 new games based on the Pokémon franchise, all of which will be released in the coming months. First is the long-rumored Pokémon Ranger: The Road to Diamond and Pearl, an upcoming action-RPG for the Nintendo DS based on the upcoming Pokémon Ranger film. The game will also link up to the upcoming Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl to unlock several bonuses. Pokémon Ranger will hit stores in 2006. The next game is Pokémon Torouze, which appears to be a Pokémon puzzle game once again on the DS. The game appears to be similar to another DS puzzler, Zoo Keeper, in that Pokémon puzzle pieces are dragged into rows or columns of four in order to delete them from the game board. Nintendo is also promising that 360 Pokémon will be used as game pieces. Pokémon Torouze will hit stores on October 20th. Last but not least, Pokémon will team up with the long-running Mysterious Dungeon franchsie for two new RPGs, Pokémon Mysterious Dungeon: Blue Rescue Force on DS and Pokémon Mysterious Dungeon: Red Rescue Force on GBA. Not much is know about these games, except they'll be coming out next year. No word on any of these games for a U.S. release, but we assume all would be hitting our shores shortly. There was also no news given on the upcoming Pokémon RPGs for DS, Diamond and Pearl. Hopefully we'll get info on those as well soon. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 9 2005 21:54 PM [Top] Frontier Stories to be Told on GBA [ Neverland Company ] Neverland Company, the developer behind the long-running Shining Force series of action-RPGs, has announced they are working on a brand new game for the Game Boy Advance for release this October. Called Frontier Stories, the game is a strategy RPG set in the world of Gate, as fourteen adventurers must escape this twisted world before the evil CIMA capture them. The game will be published by Marvelous Interactive in Japan, with no U.S. publisher or release date announced. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 9 2005 21:24 PM [Top] From Russia With Love Video [ GameCube Café ] The year is 1963. Your name is Bond, James Bond. And your mission is to slip inside the dangerous and debonair world of the original 007 played by none other than Sean Connery. Travel to exotic destinations such as Istanbul and the Orient Express, connect with a beautiful Russian double agent, and immerse yourself into an authentic re-creation of the classic Bond world. In missions that combine driving and stealth, delve deeper into the plot of the legendary film in an experience that will leave you shaken... and stirred. From Russia With Love will be released this November on all systems. Hit the link below to watch the new video featuring good old Q. Video: From Russia With Love - Q Branch Video (5.6 MB) Matthew Silver -- Posted on Tuesday, August 9 2005 17:23 PM [Top] True Crime: New York City Official Website Opens [ Activision ] Activision has opened the official website for the upcoming True Crime: New York City, hitting stores for the GameCube in the fall. The site features brand-new screenshots, trailers, as well as interviews and behind-the-scenes looks at the making of the game. Check out the site by clicking the source link above. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 9 2005 8:14 AM [Top] Ultimate Spider-Man Boxarts [ Activision ] In Ultimate Spider-Man, Gamers get to triumph over evil as the young Spider-Man and assume the role of his arch nemesis Venom to destroy everything in their path with Ultimate Spider-Man’s two diverse types of gameplay. The combat systems allow players to defeat enemies differently, using Spider-Man’s fluid, acrobatic moves or Venom’s brute force. With innovative 3D Comic Inking Technology, gamers experience unique animated comic book panels that move the story along through comprehensive environments and make it possible to sense danger from multiple perspectives. The new combat system lets players use their surroundings to pull off acrobatic moves in the expanded free-roaming New York City environment, including the borough of Queens. Ultimate Spider-Man also features more characters from the Marvel universe than any other previous Spider-Man game. Check out the boxarts for the GCN, GBA, and Nintendo DS versions of Ultimate Spider-Man below, and watch for the game to swing into stores this fall. Images: Ultimate Spider-Man GameCube Boxart Ultimate Spider-Man DS Boxart Ultimate Spider-Man GBA Boxart Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 9 2005 7:35 AM [Top] More New Call of Duty 2: Big Red One Screens [ Activision ] In Call of Duty 2: Big Red One, players experience the adrenaline rush and harsh realities of war as never before, get to know squadmates and fight alongside them through an epic story during the most harrowing moments of WWII. As a part of America’s most decorated and heroic fighting unit, The Big Red One, players work together with their squad to accomplish a variety of land, sea and air combat missions spanning North Africa, Italy and Nazi-occupied Western Europe. Through all-new A.I. and animation, allies and enemies take battle tactics to new heights. Squads will now make better use of environmental cover and tactical maneuvers, such as flanking, envelopment and fire-and-maneuver behaviors. Hear allies reacting to the events on the battlefield with contextually accurate battle chatter. Check out the latest screenshots for the game below, and watch for Call of Duty 2: Big Red One to hit stores this October. Images: Call of Duty 2: Big Red One Screenshot 1 Call of Duty 2: Big Red One Screenshot 2 Call of Duty 2: Big Red One Screenshot 3 Call of Duty 2: Big Red One Screenshot 4 Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 9 2005 7:31 AM [Top] DS Gets Bleached [ Sega of Japan ] Sega has announced that a video game based on the super-popular anime and manga series Bleach will be making its way on to the Nintendo DS this winter. The game will be a fighting game developed by Treasure, the amazing developer behind such games as Astro Boy: Omega Factor and the upcoming Gunstar Super Heroes. The game will feature four-player wireless multiplayer using both multi-card and single-card download play. The game, fully titled Bleach: Souten ni Kakeru Unmei, will hit stores in Japan this January, with no U.S. release announced as of yet. Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, August 8 2005 11:07 AM [Top] SBK: Snowboard Kids DS [ Previews ] Remember Snowboard Kids? That cute anime snowboarding game on N64? Well Atlus is making a sequel. Eric takes a look at the upcoming Snowboard Kids DS. Eric Jones -- Posted on Saturday, August 6 2005 3:06 AM [Top] New Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshots [ Activision ] Take on the role of the world’s most famous Super Hero, Marvel’s Spider-Man, and one of his most menacing nemeses, Venom, in an original storyline written and illustrated by the creative team behind the best-selling "Ultimate Spider-Man" comic books. Set in a massive free-roaming New York City environment, including the new borough of Queens, the game delivers the most in-depth Spider-Man adventure to date with a variety of demanding missions, diverse gameplay and a new combat system that allows players to face off against the largest number of interactive characters from the Marvel universe ever assembled in a Spider-Man game. With gameplay that unfolds through interactive comic book panels and 3D Comic Inking Technology, players are seamlessly integrated into a virtual comic book experience via simultaneous multiple visual perspectives. Ultimate Spider-Man will swing into stores for the Nintendo GameCube this fall and is rated T for Teen. Take a look at a brand new trio of screenshots for the game below. Images: Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 1 Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 2 Ultimate Spider-Man Screenshot 3 Eric Jones -- Posted on Saturday, August 6 2005 3:00 AM [Top] New X-Men Legends II Screenshots [ Activision ] The sequel to the best-selling X-Men title ever, X-Men Legends, X-Men Legends II: Rise of Apocalypse is an all new action-RPG that lets players create, customize and control teams of four mutants from 16 all-time favorite X-Men and classic Brotherhood villains from the Marvel Universe. With the X-Men and Brotherhood fighting side by side for the first time, players switch instantly between teammates wielding many more super powers and skills than X-Men Legends, as they overcome obstacles, solve puzzles and defeat more than 100 types of enemies including Lady Deathstrike and the notorious Four Horsemen of Apocalypse. Delivering significant gameplay enhancements over the first title, X-Men Legends II: Rise of Apocalypse challenges players to explore immense, destructible environments set in classic X-Men locations like Genosha and the Infinite Factory, and exotic worldly locales like Egypt and the Savage Lands in both single player and multiplayer modes. X-Men Legends II: Rise of Apocalypse is rated T for Teen and will hit stores for the Nintendo GameCube this fall. Check out the latest batch of screenshots below. Images: X-Men Legends II Screenshot 1 X-Men Legends II Screenshot 2 X-Men Legends II Screenshot 3 Eric Jones -- Posted on Saturday, August 6 2005 2:58 AM [Top] Nintendo Wi-Fi Trailer to Hit Theaters [ GameCube Café ] The action is on Nintendo DS. The reaction could happen anywhere a player has access to Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. Whether you're tossing a red koopa shell at your friend down the street or dropping a banana peel on your old pal from a different city, gaming knows no boundaries with Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. The theme of boundless entertainment is perfectly visualized in "The Tale of Bhuvan Ganguly," Nintendo's latest spot to hit the big screen. Nintendo's longtime advertising firm, Leo Burnett, created and produced the film. "The Tale of Bhuvan Ganguly" will be spotlighted in more than 5,000 theaters in the US through August 25th, and will be shown before such films as The Fantastic Four, The Dukes of Hazzard, Bad News Bears, Stealth, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and The Island. Video: Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection Trailer (7.9 MB) Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Friday, August 5 2005 19:57 PM [Top] Super Princess Peach Release Date Announced [ Nintendo of Japan ] After not hearing practically anything about the game since it was announced last year and a complete no-show at E3, Nintendo looks to have revived Super Princess Peach, the side-scroller for Nintendo DS starring everyone's favorite usually-captured Princess. Nintendo has announced that the game will hit stores in Japan on October 20th, with U.S. and European release dates soon to follow. Stay tuned for more on the game as it is revealed. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, August 5 2005 1:37 AM [Top] The Incredible Hulk: Ultimate Destruction [ Previews ] Eric likes to think he's the Hulk. Unfortunately when he tries to transform into him, he ends up crawling on the floor trying to rip off his shirt. It's quite sad, really. Anyway, Eric takes a look at the Hulk game coming out at the end of the month. Lou Ferrigno need not apply. Eric Jones -- Posted on Friday, August 5 2005 0:04 AM [Top] UK Pop Sensation in From Russia With Love [ Electronic Arts ] Electronic Arts has signed the UK pop sensation Natasha Bedingfield to make a cameo appearance in the highly anticipated From Russia With Love, due for worldwide release in Autumn 2005. This is EA's newest addition to the widely successful James Bond video game franchise. Bedingfield will lend her voice and likeness to the character Elizabeth Stark, daughter of England's Prime Minister. In the game Miss Stark is kidnapped and must be rescued by James Bond. Bedingfield will appear alongside Sir Sean Connery, who is reprising his role as the dapper secret agent 007 in the game. "I am thrilled to be featured alongside Sean Connery in the game version of one of my favorite Bond films," said Bedingfield. "It's not every day you get to become a Bond Girl so this is a great honour." Matthew Silver -- Posted on Thursday, August 4 2005 21:02 PM [Top] From Russia With Love Screenshots [ Electronic Arts ] The year is 1963. Your name is Bond, James Bond. And your mission is to slip inside the dangerous and debonair world of the original 007 played by none other than Sean Connery. Travel to exotic destinations such as Istanbul and the Orient Express, connect with a beautiful Russian double agent, and immerse yourself into an authentic re-creation of the classic Bond world. In missions that combine driving and stealth, delve deeper into the plot of the legendary film in an experience that will leave you shaken... and stirred. From Russia With Love will be released this November. Hit the links for the new screens. Images: From Russia With Love Screenshot 1 From Russia With Love Screenshot 2 From Russia With Love Screenshot 3 From Russia With Love Screenshot 4 Matthew Silver -- Posted on Thursday, August 4 2005 20:59 PM [Top] Amazing New PoP3 Concept Art [ Ubisoft ] Recently Ubisoft unveiled an exclusive new image to its official Prince of Persia 3 forum goers (click the source link to go directly there), and I thought it was so freakin' badass that you'd like to see it too. The image shows an unknown archer weilding a bow at ready. Who is it? Well... (WARNING!!! Do not read on if you do not like potential plot spoilers!) Clearly the figure is female, based on her physique. She bares a striking resemblance to Princess Farah from Sands of Time, who also favored a bow as her weapon of choice. If you saw the hidden extended ending for Warrior Within, after defeating the Dahaka you are given a glipse of Babylon in flames, and a woman, also very similar to Farah, bound and in shackles. It has been a growing belief that Farah will play an important role in the Prince's new adventure. Of course, this is all conjecture on my part, and I could be completely wrong. The archer could be anybody. We'll just have to wait and find out. (End spoilers) The image is below in three sizes: First, the original size presented by Ubisoft, and then two wallpaper sizes (800x600 and 1024x768), because I'm such a nice guy and thought you guys might appreciate it. You know you love us. Images: Prince of Persia 3 Concept Art Prince of Persia 3 Concept Art Wallpaper Size (800x600) Prince of Persia 3 Concept Art Wallpaper Size (1024x768) Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Thursday, August 4 2005 20:43 PM [Top] Sega to Support Revolution [ Nintendo ] In an interview with Nintendo Power magazine, Simon Jeffrey, Sega of America's President, confirms that Sega is fully on board with Nintendo in the next gen to release games for the Revolution console. Says Jeffrey: "We obviously haven’t made any announcements, but we, like other people, are talking with Nintendo about what Revolution will be, about potential opportunities on Revolution. With regard to GameCube itself...it’s interesting how something like Panzer Dragoon Orta would have done on GameCube if it had come out on that versus Xbox. That’s an interesting scenario. I’m not sure what would have happened there. We’re always really looking at what we can do that best exploits for us the classic IPs that we’ve got for a particular market. A GameCube player, like you say, is very, very different from an Xbox player." Jeffrey also confimrs the possibility of Nintendo and Sega teaming up for more collaborative efforts after the success of F-Zero GX, and is also looking into the possibilty of having Master System and Genesis games made available for download on Revolution. To read the entire interview, click the source link above. Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, August 4 2005 11:40 AM [Top] Pokémon XD Boxart [ Nintendo ] Return to Orre for a new role-playing game in an expansive setting with a sinister plot and characters the likes of which have never been met before. With Eevee as their companion, players seek to unravel the mystery of Shadow Lugia. The fate and welfare of Pokémon lies in their ability to Snag and Purify them before it's too late. Pokémon XD is due out on October 3. Images: Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness Boxart Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Thursday, August 4 2005 11:36 AM [Top] Nintendogs Training Video [ GameCube Café ] In Nintendogs, players care for and train their puppy by petting it, walking it and buying it supplies to play with. As a puppy competes in obedience and agility trials, owners can win money to purchase other puppy breeds. Puppies from the most popular dog breeds, like Chihuahuas, Labrador retrievers, beagles and German shepherds. There will be more than 15 breeds in all, including breeds not featured in the Japanese versions. The pups will vary in gender, coloration and personality. Nintendogs will release on August 22nd in the U.S. and will hit stores in Europe next month. Check out a special training video for the game below by right-clicking and saving it to your hard drive. Video: Nintendogs Training Video (18.4 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, August 4 2005 11:35 AM [Top] Donkey Kong: King of Swing Logo and Boxart [ Nintendo ] The normally quiet jungle is abuzz with excitement today, because it's time for the ceremony to choose the king of the jungle. Or at least it would be if King K. Rool™ hadn't stolen the special medallion meant for the winner. Donkey Kong and his friends must swing their way through the jungle to get the medallion back and, along the way, do battle with King K. Rool's minions. Using just the L and R buttons to grab with Donkey Kong's left and right hands, players spin on the pegs and let go to launch up into the air to reach another peg. The game features many elements that take advantage of this unique game mechanic: Spinning left or right on a crank opens or closes doors, and spinning on bolts slowly loosens them until they pop out, making Donkey Kong lose his grip. DK: King of Swing is set to hit North America on September 19. Images: Donkey Kong: King of Swing Logo Donkey Kong: King of Swing Boxart Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Thursday, August 4 2005 11:34 AM [Top] New Call of Duty 2: Big Red One Screenshot [ Activision ] The sequel to last year's critically-acclaimed shooter Call of Duty: Finest Hour, Call of Duty 2: Big Red One tells the story of the famed First Infantry: nicknamed the "Big Red One", and the battles they took part in during World War II. Players will have the opportunity to fight battles all over Europe: from striking against the Germans in England, to battling the Italians in North Africa and Sicily, to being the first to storm the beaches of Normandy. Developed as a collaborative effort between developers Treyarch and Grey Matter Studios, Call of Duty 2: Big Red One promises to be the most realistic, true-to-life World War II shooter to ever hit the market. Check out the latest screenshot below, and watch for Call of Duty 2: Big Red One when it deploys into stores on October 4th. Images: Call of Duty 2: Big Red One Screenshot Eric Jones -- Posted on Thursday, August 4 2005 3:47 AM [Top] Hulk Preorder Bonus Announced [ Vivendi Universal ] Vivendi Universal has announced that gamers who preorder The Incredible Hulk: Ultimate Destruction, the new game starring the big green machine from developer Radical Entertainment, will receive a limited-edition reprint of The Incredble Hulk #1, the 1962 comic book that introduced fans the world over to the superhero. The comic will not only feature an original storyline by Stan Lee and art by Jack Kirby, but will also feature one of three covers by Marvel artists James Palmiotti, Amanda Conner, and Paul Mounts. The Incredible Hulk: Ultimate Destruction will hit stores for all consoles, including the GameCube, on August 23rd. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 3 2005 18:18 PM [Top] The Incredibles Go Player's Choice [ THQ ] THQ has announced that The Incredibles, the video game based upon the Pixar cgi-animated mega-hit of last year, has been named a Player's Choice title on the Nintendo GameCube. Thusly, it has been slashed to the normal Player's Choice price of a mere $19.99. The game, loosely based on the film, has sold 4.5 million copies to this point and should receive a huge boost with the new price point. THQ isn't done with the Incredibles franchise yet, though - later this year will see the upcoming sequel The Incredibles: Rise of the Underminer, with versions announced for the GameCube, GBA, and Nintendo DS. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 3 2005 18:14 PM [Top] First Feel the Magic 2 Scans and Info [ Famitsu ] Famitsu has revealed the first screens and information about the upcoming Feel the Magic sequel, Akachan wa Dokokara Kuruno?, which translates to "Where Do Babies Come From". The game will once again be developed by Sega's Sonic Team, developers of the first game and, of course, Sega's legendary Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. The game will apparently not be a direct sequel from the first game, as predicted, however, as players must take on the role of a new guy as he, once again, needs to impress a girl. The twist to this game will be, however, another girl that will fight the other girl for his love, often with explosive results. Feel the Magic 2 will use the same visual style as its predecessor, and Sega is promising twice the minigames for the title as well. Feel the Magic 2 will hit stores in Japan this October, with a U.S. release undoubtably soon to follow Images: Feel The Magic 2 Famitsu Scan 1 Feel The Magic 2 Famitsu Scan 2 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 3 2005 18:07 PM [Top] First Tamagotchi DS Screenshots [ Bandai of Japan ] Bandai has revealed the first screens about its upcoming game for the Nintendo DS based on the toy that started the infamous digi-pet craze: Tamagotchi. Now entitled Tamagotchi: Little Little Shop in Japan, the game will once again charge players with taking care of various odd-looking pets, and will make use of such features as the touch screen and wireless multiplayer. Tamagotchi DS will hit stores in Japan in September, and a U.S. release date is yet to be announced. Images: Tamagotchi DS Screenshot 1 Tamagotchi DS Screenshot 2 Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 3 2005 17:58 PM [Top] Bond Finds Love in Russia [ Electronic Arts ] Electronic Arts has announced that Maria Menounos, an actress currently starring in Fantastic Four, as well as a former co-host of Entertainment Tonight, will play the role of the Bond girl in the upcoming 007: From Russia With Love. She will be playing the role of Eva, a character created exclusively for the game, and NOT the actual Bond girl from the original film, Tatiana Romanova (played in the movie by Daniela Bianchi). This means that the game could be an update or re-telling of the movie, and will only be based upon it loosely. Menounos joins the legendary Sir Sean Connery, reprising the Bond role for the first time since 1983, in this game. 007: From Russia With Love will hit stores later this year for all consoles, including the Nintendo GameCube. Eric Jones -- Posted on Wednesday, August 3 2005 17:52 PM [Top] Metroid Prime 3 Details Surface [ Nintendo ] Nintendo's official Metroid website, Luminoth Temple (click the source link to see it), has revealed some new info on Metroid Prime 3, the first game ever showcased for the Nintendo Revolution. First of all, we now know that this title will bring an end to the Prime storyline. "The plot of Prime 3 is about closure, told against the backdrop of an epic struggle," according to Retro Studios. What the struggle will entail was not said, but we can be sure that Samus will be up against one of the biggest, most dangerous forces she's ever had to deal with. Secondly, Retro confirmed that the game will take place in first-person, just as the other two games. Retro stated that so long as Metroid is in 3D, they have no plans of moving to a third-person camera. Additionally, the Phazon material that was such an integral part of the previous Prime games will again play a role, as well as, of course, Metroids and other new enemies. "We plan on taking advantage of a number of new features in the Revolution, including the controller," said one developer. We know that the Revolution controller is something special, but what this means could be anybody's guess. The game will push the amazing visuals of Retro's previous outings with Ms. Aran to new heights, with more detail in the environments, smoother gameplay, and intensely realistic graphics, using a revved-up version of the Prime 1 and 2 engine. Music production will be handled by Kenji Yamamoto, the man behind the scores for Prime and Echoes, and is expected to be both familiar and new. Look for Metroid Prime 3 to be a big hit when it launches for the Nintendo Revolution next year (hopefully). Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, August 3 2005 17:30 PM [Top] New Trauma Center Media [ Atlus ] Atlus sure has been nice to us today. Trauma Center: Under the Knife lets YOU play doctor, performing increasingly complex surgeries. At first it's just another day in the O.R., but when a mysterious outbreak sweeps the area, the patients' lives are in your hands--no pressure. The stylus will be your scalpel as you make incisions, anesthetize problem areas, remove tumors, monitor vital signs, apply bandages, and more! Of course, you'll also have to deal with human drama between appointments. Keep a cool head, or you'll be out on the street (and all those years of medical school for nothing). Images: Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 1 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 2 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 3 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 4 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 5 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 6 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 7 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 8 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 9 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 10 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 11 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 12 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 13 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 14 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 15 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 16 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 17 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 18 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 19 Trauma Center: Under the Knife Image 20 Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, August 3 2005 16:27 PM [Top] New Snowboard Kids DS Media Part 1 [ Atlus ] The Snowboard Kids are back and better than ever. Just when you thought it was safe to hit the slopes, these daring teens start tearing it up again in a series of fast and furious downhill events! SBK has all the elements you loved in Snowboard Kids 1 and 2, plus a slew of new features for a new generation of gamers. Featuring touch screen controls, wireless multiplayer competition, new weapons, new characters, and a souped-up sense of speed, this is the sequel you've been waiting for! Images: Snowboard Kids DS Image 1 Snowboard Kids DS Image 2 Snowboard Kids DS Image 3 Snowboard Kids DS Image 4 Snowboard Kids DS Image 5 Snowboard Kids DS Image 6 Snowboard Kids DS Image 7 Snowboard Kids DS Image 8 Snowboard Kids DS Image 9 Snowboard Kids DS Image 10 Video: Snowboard Kids DS Video 1 (4.11 MB) Snowboard Kids DS Video 2 (3.35 MB) Snowboard Kids DS Video 3 (5.02 MB) Snowboard Kids DS Video 4 (3.14 MB) Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, August 3 2005 15:55 PM [Top] New Snowboard Kids DS Media Part 2 [ Atlus ] The Snowboard Kids are back and better than ever. Just when you thought it was safe to hit the slopes, these daring teens start tearing it up again in a series of fast and furious downhill events! SBK has all the elements you loved in Snowboard Kids 1 and 2, plus a slew of new features for a new generation of gamers. Featuring touch screen controls, wireless multiplayer competition, new weapons, new characters, and a souped-up sense of speed, this is the sequel you've been waiting for! Images: Snowboard Kids DS Image 11 Snowboard Kids DS Image 12 Snowboard Kids DS Image 13 Snowboard Kids DS Image 14 Snowboard Kids DS Image 15 Snowboard Kids DS Image 16 Snowboard Kids DS Image 17 Snowboard Kids DS Image 18 Snowboard Kids DS Image 19 Snowboard Kids DS Image 20 Video: Snowboard Kids DS Video 5 (3.25 MB) Snowboard Kids DS Video 6 (3.08 MB) Snowboard Kids DS Video 7 (3.5 MB) Snowboard Kids DS Video 8 (3.7 MB) Carl DeNovio -- Posted on Wednesday, August 3 2005 15:55 PM [Top] Prince of Persia 3 [ Previews ] Will gives you the goods on Ubisoft's highly anticipated conclusion to its award-winning masterpiece trilogy. Will Szwagiel -- Posted on Tuesday, August 2 2005 22:39 PM [Top] New Shrek SuperSlam Trailer [ GameCube Café ] In Activision's upcoming brawler based on the wildly popular Shrek series of films from Dreamworks Animation, players will be able to choose one of numerous characters from the films, like Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, Prince Charming, The Gingerbread Man, Pinocchio, Puss n' Boots, and many others. By utilizing hordes of weapons and character-specific special attacks, unleash each character's power with support for up to four players making for the ultimate Shrek party experience. Shrek SuperSlam will be released this fall for all consoles, including versions for the GameCube, DS, and Game Boy Advance. Check out the latest trailer below by downloading it to your hard drive. Video: Shrek SuperSlam Trailer (15.9 MB) Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 2 2005 20:52 PM [Top] Prince of Persia 3 Developer Diary Video [ GameCube Café ] Ubisoft has announced that they will do a developer diary video series with Prince of Persia 3 just like they did with Warrior Within. We now have the first video in the series. The new video definitely is something to check out, as it gives new info and never before seen images from the game. Prince of Persia 3 is set to release this December. Hit the link below to watch the video in any browser or right click and save it to your computer. Video: Prince of Persia 3 Developer Diary Video (45.0 MB) Matthew Silver -- Posted on Tuesday, August 2 2005 18:10 PM [Top] Critters Flip Onto DS [ Zen Studios ] Hungarian Developer Zen Studios, the company formerly known as Rubik Interactive, has announced that they are working on a brand-new pinball title for the Nintendo DS. Called Flipper Critters, the game was actually once the ill-fated Super Pac-Man Pinball, before Namco dropped the game after the first Pac-Man Pinball for GBA. Now altering the engine and giving the game a new name, Flipper Critters, Zen Studios is hard at work looking for a publisher for the title. Hopefully they will, as the new title looks extremely promising. Check out their website by clicking the above link, and watch for Flipper Critters to hit stores sometime in the near future. Eric Jones -- Posted on Tuesday, August 2 2005 16:17 PM [Top] Fantastic 4 [ Reviews ] Mike reviewes a game based on a movie based on a comic. Also, no, Kevin, you do not have Mr. Fantastic's power in any specific areas of your body, so stop trying to impress us. Mike Twomey -- Posted on Tuesday, August 2 2005 1:58 AM [Top] Killer7 [ Reviews ] Is it brilliant or is it flashy trash? Will gives you his opinion on Capcom's mind-bending thriller. Will Szwagiel -- Posted on Tuesday, August 2 2005 1:57 AM [Top] Viewtiful Joe DS Renamed [ Capcom ] Last week, we reported that a Gamestop page revealed the name of the upcoming Viewtiful Joe brawler for the GameCube, Viewtiful Joe: Red Hot Rumble. Now, Capcom itself has confirmed the new name to the upcoming DS title starring Viewtiful Joe - Viewtiful Joe: Double Trouble. The game will see Joe once again doing battle with the forces of evil, making use of the touch screen to split the screen in order to solve puzzles. Capcom also confirms the game will hit stores in the US by the holiday season. We also have some exclusive footage of the game on GameCube Café's E3 2005 DVD, so be sure to check that out by ordering your copy today! Eric Jones -- Posted on Monday, August 1 2005 15:39 PM [Top] Aonuma Speaks with EGM [ Electronic Gaming Monthly ] The latest issue of EGM has an interview with the director of the new Legend of Zelda game, Eiji Aonuma, which will be released this holiday season. In the interview Aonuma speaks on the new day/night system that will be present in the game. The system is inspired by the system that was in Majora's Mask. Unlike Majora's Mask though, the system will not be in real-time. Link will have a new item that will allow him to somehow control time. Aonuma also states that when it is night during the game the player will have to rely on the lantern in order to progress because without it you will only be able to see a few feet in front of you. The day/night system will be present in both the Twilight realm and the regular realm. Aonuma also confirms that talking with animals will be a major part of the game, moreso than we originally anticipated. There are many parts in the game where progression will not be possible unless you comminicate with the surrounding animals. He also hinted that Link will even be able to communicate directly with Epona. How that will effect play though was not revealed. Lastly, Aonuma revealed that the new Legend of Zelda for the Nintendo DS (which does not have a release date but will most likely be summer or holiday 2006) will in fact be a brand new Zelda game and NOT follow the story of the Four Swords. Whether the game is 2D or 3D is unknown as of yet but will most likely be revealed before the end of the year. To see exclusive Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess footage not available anywhere on the internet buy our E3 2005 DVD. The DVD has an hour of Twilight Princess footage as well as three more hours covering all of Nintendo's products shown at E3. Matthew Silver -- Posted on Monday, August 1 2005 1:05 AM [Top]