Topics

[According to the NPD, American players spent over 15 billion dollars in gaming alone.]

26

TalkBack / Over $15.25 Billion Spent by US Gamers in 2009

« on: June 18, 2010, 05:34:27 PM »

According to the NPD, American players spent over 15 billion dollars in gaming alone.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23439

 According to new research conducted by the NPD,  United States consumers spent $15-$15.25 billion dollars on gaming. In that total, $4.5-$4.75 billion was generated by second hand games, rentals, subscriptions, digital content and mobile game apps.    

“Our expanded estimate of consumer spending reflects the growing number of options to purchase, acquire and interact with video games ranging from GameFly rentals to iPod Touch game apps,” said NPD analyst Anita Frazier. “Consumer spending on social network games like those offered by Facebook would push this estimate even higher.”

[Satoru Iwata reveals a possible new feature to Nikkei.]

27

TalkBack / Newspaper and Magazine Reader Possible for 3DS

« on: June 18, 2010, 04:02:42 AM »

Satoru Iwata reveals a possible new feature to Nikkei.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23436

 In a recent Nikkei interview, Satoru Iwata elaborated on the planned uses of the 3DS' ability to automatically connect to nearby wireless access points and download information.    

Similar to the newspaper subscriptions for Amazon's Kindle, one of the possible uses could be the automatic download of newspaper and magazine articles.    

The Nintendo DS is currently being used for all sorts of multipurpose applications in Japan, so this approach falls in line with what Nintendo is already doing with the 3DS' little brother.

[Nintendo and Monolith’s Wii-exclusive title sees a healthy debut, while Super Mario Galaxy 2 is still seeing good numbers.]

28

TalkBack / Xenoblade Leads Japan’s Latest Media Create Charts

« on: June 17, 2010, 02:01:56 PM »

Nintendo and Monolith’s Wii-exclusive title sees a healthy debut, while Super Mario Galaxy 2 is still seeing good numbers.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23432

 The Media Create sales chart for the week of June 7 through the 13 places Nintendo and Monolith Software's Wii RPG Xenoblade at the top of the charts. The RPG title sold 83,000 copies in its debut week. The previous chart topper, Super Mario Galaxy 2, experienced its first drop since its May 27 debut in Japan. The game sold 73,000 copies, pushing it to the half-million mark (519,000 copies have been sold since launch).    

In fourth place is Capcom’s Mega Man Zero Collection for the DS. It sold 22,000 copies for the week. Square Enix's Dragon Quest Monsters Joker 2 rounds out the top five with 20,000 copies sold for a grand total of 1,142,000 copies sold. The top ten closes with two more Nintendo titles. In ninth place is Friend Collection which sold 12,000 copies. Finally, New Super Mario Wii sold 12,000 copies.    

The full Media Create chart is as follows:    

1.   Xenoblade, Wii (83,000)
 2.   Super Mario Galaxy 2, Wii (73,000)
 3.   Grand Theft Auto Episodes from Liberty City, PlayStation 3 (64,000)
 4.   Mega Man Zero Collection, DS (22,000)
 5.   Dragon Quest Monster Joker 2, DS (20,000)
 6.   Just Cause 2, PlayStation 3 (19,000)
 7.   Fairy Tale Portable Guild, PlayStation Portable (14,000)
 8.   World Soccer Winning Eleven 2010, PlayStation 3 (13,000)
 9.   Friend Collection, DS (12,000)
 10.   New Super Mario Bros. Wii, Wii (12,000)

[Soccer and synthesizers feature prominently in the first games in the series.]

29

TalkBack / Arc System Works Launches DSiWare Series

« on: June 17, 2010, 11:21:03 AM »

Soccer and synthesizers feature prominently in the first games in the series.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23431

 In Japan, Arc System Works has launched the first in their upcoming series of DSiWare games called the Arc Style Series.    

   

The first title is Arc Style Soccer. Available in Japan for 500 DSi Points, Arc Style Soccer is an arcade soccer game that features four-player soccer teams and has eliminated soccer rules such as fouls and offside rules. The title will feature 32 teams as well as Exhibition and Tournament modes. The option of creating an original team is also available. Multiplayer modes include both wireless and download play.    

   

The second DSiWare game is Arc Style Rytmix. The title is a music app in which players can mix sounds up in order to create music. Rytmix features over 170 sound samples. Arc Style Rytmix will be released on June 23 and be sold for 800 DSi Points.

[The company's president is waiting for the adoption rate of 3D televisions to go up.]

30

TalkBack / Nintendo's Next Console May Employ 3D

« on: June 17, 2010, 11:26:07 AM »

The company's president is waiting for the adoption rate of 3D televisions to go up.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23417

 Nintendo President Satoru Iwata addressed his thoughts on 3D console gaming in an interview in today's Nihon Keizai Shimbun.    

When asked if the Wii would be made 3D compatible, he responded that it really isn't possible with Wii hardware. "If you display a 3D image, the image quality becomes extremely bad, so we'd probably do it with the next system. We're thinking that the timing should be once the 3D television adoption rate crosses the 30% mark. We're looking at the adoption trends."    

   

The newspaper asked if the 3DS represented Nintendo riding the wave of the 3D boom that seems to have invaded video gaming as of late. Iwata was quick to point out that Nintendo is not new to 3D, and that they had already been experimenting with immersive 3D gameplay fifteen years ago with their Virtual Boy system.  Admitting that the technology "was not ready" at that time, he stated that his company put 3D gaming on the back burner until approximately two years ago, when they realized that they finally had the technology to create "a satisfying product".    

Iwata said that the goal of implementing 3D is to give players the ability to sense their position in a game more easily. "In a game where the stages extend into the screen, it's surprisingly easier to control [compared to non-3D]. This is functionality for making games more pleasant to play, not just for show," he explained.    

He was also bullish on the future of 3D gaming, calling it "the mainstream of [future] gaming".

[Hone your tennis skills; you’ll need them to guide our bouncy hero.]

31

TalkBack / PREVIEWS: FlingSmash

« on: June 16, 2010, 01:58:13 PM »

Hone your tennis skills; you’ll need them to guide our bouncy hero.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/previewArt.cfm?artid=23380

 FlingSmash has an interesting story. The game was first revealed at Nintendo’s Fall Conference back in 2008, known back then as Span Smasher. The title was brought back once more at last year’s E3 under a new title, FlingSmash. Now, it’s scheduled to be released this holiday season.    

   

FlingSmash has a unique game concept. When his island home is invaded by the evil Omminus, round and bouncy hero Zip sets out on a journey to stop him once and for all. The gameplay mixes tennis and pinball, turning the Wii Remote into a racquet and using Zip as the ball.    

The stages are constantly scrolling horizontally or vertically. Players must hit Zip and help him navigate through the stages, hitting enemies while destroying barrels and other obstacles. In order to give the controls more accuracy, FlingSmash employs Wii MotionPlus so players have more control over the racquet and can send Zip flying more accurately. In the event that the player is left-handed, FlingSmash offers an option that changes the screen layout to accommodate these players.    

   

There are eight worlds, each one culminating with a boss battle. There are eight more levels hidden, as well as mini-games. FlingSmash also features a multiplayer mode; a second player can join in and play as Zip’s friend Pip.    

FlingSmash is being developed by Artoon, who has previously worked on other Nintendo titles such as Yoshi’s Island DS. The title is slated to be released this holiday season.

[Who knew that the Miis were such party animals?]

32

TalkBack / PREVIEWS: Wii Party

« on: June 16, 2010, 01:57:12 PM »

Who knew that the Miis were such party animals?
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/previewArt.cfm?artid=23379

 Wii Party is the seventh game in Nintendo's "Wii" game series. All the games in the series put very strong emphasis on gameplay that is easy to learn and inviting for all types of players, and Wii Party is no exception.    

   

The game is inspired by Nintendo’s own Mario Party series, only instead of Mario characters, Miis are the star of the show. Like in Mario Party, there are 13 different party modes that host over 70 mini-games. Many of these have unique player interactions. For example, in one game mode you are asked to pass the Wii Remote around without shaking it too wildly. If you do, the bomb with explode and the players is eliminated. In another game mode, players are asked to put their controllers on a table. Each controller will make a different sound, and players must then pick the right controller according to the image on the screen. Finally, one mode has the participants playing hide and seek with the Wii Remote. They hide the Wii Remote and try to find it by listening to the sounds that come out of the speakers.    

Board game mode plays similarly to Mario Party. Players participate on a board, rolling a pair of dice to move across it. Once all players have landed on a space they compete in a mini-game. Some of the mini-games are co-op affairs, with players helping each other out, while others are strictly competitive. One of the mini-games shown has Mii characters balancing on top of a ship. In another mini-game, the characters are riding on a rollercoaster, trying to shoot balloons with gifts on them.    

   

Up to four players can participate in the game. As is the norm with mini-game compilations on Wii, motion controls will play a big role in the control mechanics. Twisting the Wii Remote left and right helps the characters regain their balances, while basic point-and-shoot controls help them out during shooting stages.    

Wii Party is being developed by Nd CUBE CO. Ltd. and will be released in Fall 2010.

[The first game to support the headset will be Conduit 2.]

33

TalkBack / PDP Unveils Headset for Wii

« on: June 16, 2010, 05:58:28 PM »

The first game to support the headset will be Conduit 2.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23370

 Those that have used Wii Speak know that it is a less-than-optimal solution for voice chat during online gaming sessions.  PDP realized this and have created the Headbanger Headset, the first headset specifically for the Wii console.    

   

According to PDP, Sega's Conduit 2 will be "one of the first titles" to support the peripheral.  There's no word as to whether or not the headset will work with other prominent titles like Monster Hunter Tri or Animal Crossing, but NWR has contacted PDP for more details.    

Special thanks to DAaaman64 for the news tip!

[Pikachu goes theme park exploring and has a fun time doing it.]

34

TalkBack / PREVIEWS: PokéPark Wii: Pikachu's Adventure

« on: June 15, 2010, 06:28:08 PM »

Pikachu goes theme park exploring and has a fun time doing it.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/previewArt.cfm?artid=23351

 PokePark Wii: Pikachu's Adventure marks the first time a Pokemon adventure game has appeared on the Wii. Unlike past Pokemon titles, PokePark Wii is an adventure title with strong emphasis on playing mini-games. The story behind PokePark is that the rare Pokemon Mew has summoned Pikachu and friends to the PokePark in order to find the pieces of the Sky Prism. Once there, Pikachu can explore different zones and participate in different skill events.    

   

Pikachu can befriend other Pokemon characters by defeating them in mini-games called Tests of Strength. The battles happen in real time, while retaining some of the rules of the Pokemon handheld games. Certain attacks work better against different Pokemon types. Once defeated, they can be used as playable characters in order to complete specific mini-games. The mini-games can be replayed in order to get the highest score or the fastest time possible. Pikachu can also help other Pokemon by completing different quests; for example, Pikachu can help the beaver Pokemon Bidoof and Bibarel complete their dam at the base of a waterfall.    

   

The more tasks Pikachu completes, the more new areas and Pokemon begin to appear. PokePark Wii also employs a password system that can be used to unlock additional content, such as playable Pokemon characters. As a bonus, players can take pictures of their Pokemon and save them on an SD Card.    

When Pikachu is exploring each zone, traditional controls are employed. During these scenes players hold the Wii Remote on the side. When playing the mini-games, motion control is used.    

Matthew Blundon expressed his thoughts on the Japanese version of the game and gave it his approval. PokePark Wii: Pikachu’s Adventure is slated for a Holiday 2010 release in North America.

[The studio responsible for the Metroid Prime series is now behind Donkey Kong’s return to 2.5D gaming.]

35

TalkBack / PREVIEWS: Donkey Kong Country Returns

« on: June 15, 2010, 06:25:39 PM »

The studio responsible for the Metroid Prime series is now behind Donkey Kong’s return to 2.5D gaming.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/previewArt.cfm?artid=23350

 Despite being one of Nintendo’s most iconic characters, Donkey Kong hasn’t starred in a new game since 2005’s Donkey Kong Jungle Beat (later re-released as a Wii title in 2009). This is about to end thanks to the impending release of Donkey Kong Country Returns, developed by Retro Studios, best known for their work on the Metroid Prime series.    

   

Donkey Kong Country Returns, as the title implies, brings Donkey Kong back to his Super Nintendo platforming roots, retaining the gameplay and look that made the series one of the most popular of the 90s. The story goes that a group of evil tikis have taken control of the animals in the jungle and have stolen the bananas in Donkey Kong’s banana hoard, paying tribute to the original game’s story. No mention of series villain King K. Rool is made.    

Diddy Kong, first introduced in Donkey Kong Country, returns as Donkey Kong’s sidekick. He brings with him the abilities seen in Donkey Kong 64. His backpack includes a Jet Pack as well as Peanut Pop Guns. New to Donkey Kong Country Returns is the opportunity to control Diddy Kong via a special two-player mode. This allows for co-op play in which one player, as Donkey Kong, can help the other as Diddy Kong.    

The levels themselves are designed to resemble the classic stages seen in the original titles. Players can use rocket barrels to travel around the stages, swing on vines while collecting special coins and bananas, and even ride on mine carts. As seen in the E3 trailer, Donkey Kong can jump to the foreground and interact with the elements there, reminiscent of games like Super Paper Mario. The classic KONG puzzle pieces return as well; when all four pieces are collected, players are awarded with an extra life.    

   

Donkey Kong Country Returns uses the Wii Remote and Nunchuck. You move the characters with the Nunchuck, while performing Donkey Kong’s trademark ground slap requires a quick shake of the Wii Remote.    

The graphics in the original Donkey Kong Country were revolutionary in that they used pre-rendered sprites to give the game a 3D look. Donkey Kong Country Returns retains the high level of detail seen in the classic titles, while using the Wii’s graphic capabilities to further enhance the effects. One level takes place during a sunset, making the characters and several other elements appear in shadows while hues of orange and yellow adorn the rest of the scenery. Both Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong animate fluidly, while enemies stun in their size and design. Retro Studios is known for creating stunning game worlds in the Metroid Prime series, and Donkey Kong Country Returns appears to keep that tradition alive.    

Donkey Kong Country Returns invades the Wii this holiday season.

[Wii like to party, Wii like, Wii like to party!]

36

TalkBack / Wii Party E3 Trailer

« on: June 15, 2010, 06:18:02 PM »

Wii like to party, Wii like, Wii like to party!
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23349

 Wii Party is the latest in Nintendo's series of Wii games, keeping the franchise's of easy to learn and fun experiences for the whole family. The E3 trailer showcases some of the mini-games in the collection. One of these is a game in which players must pass around the Wii Remote while not shaking it. If they do, the bomb on-screen explodes, eliminating the player. Other mini-games include a hide a seek mode using the Wii Remote's speaker, a board game mode and over 70 mini-games.    

Here's the E3 trailer for your enjoyment:  

[See Pikachu and friends partake in fun theme park activities in this latest Pokemon game.]

37

TalkBack / PokePark: Pikachu's Adventure E3 Trailer

« on: June 15, 2010, 05:14:29 PM »

See Pikachu and friends partake in fun theme park activities in this latest Pokemon game.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23348

 Ever wonder what Pikachu does when he is not battling other Pokemon? He goes on a theme park adventure of course! PokePark Wii: Pikachi's Adventure is a mini-game collection featuring the electric mouse and his friends. The theme park attractions are mini-games. Pikachu can explore the overworld and meet other Pokemon.    

More can be seen in this trailer:  

[If you needed another reason to quest on your DS, this trailer should do it.]

38

TalkBack / Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies E3 Trailer

« on: June 15, 2010, 10:49:03 AM »

If you needed another reason to quest on your DS, this trailer should do it.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23336

 Dragon Quest IX is a mega hit in Japan, and Nintendo hopes that players in North America they dive into Dragon Quest IX's quests. The title will feature multiplayer and many quests.    

Here's the E3 trailer:    

[Retro's re-imagining of Donkey Kong's classic adventures looks fun and very pretty.]

39

TalkBack / Donkey Kong Country Returns E3 Trailer

« on: June 15, 2010, 09:57:05 AM »

Retro's re-imagining of Donkey Kong's classic adventures looks fun and very pretty.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23326

 Rumored a few days before E3 Nintendo unveiled Donkey Kong Country Returns, developed by Metroid Prime creators Retro Studios. The first Donkey Kong adventure game since 2005's Donkey Kong Jungle Beat, Donkey Kong Country Returns retains the classic 2D gameplay of the classic Super Nintendo titles. Diddy Kong accompanies DK once more as they battle baddies and travel together.    

Here's the trailer:  

[See Pit take flight once more in glorious 3D.]

40

TalkBack / Kid Icarus: Uprising E3 Trailer

« on: June 15, 2010, 09:41:36 AM »

See Pit take flight once more in glorious 3D.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23323

 Years in the making, the sequel to Pit's NES and Game Boy adventures finally lands on the Nintendo 3DS. Pit's design is exactly the one seen in Super Smash Bros. Brawl. Other classic characters such as Palutena and Egg Plant Wizard also return.    

Gameplay is a mix between Sin and Punishment and Star Fox. Pit flies around the screen defeating enemies at high speeds.    

The E3 trailer is as follows:  

[The latest trailer features even more intergalactic action.]

41

TalkBack / Metroid: Other M E3 Trailer

« on: June 15, 2010, 09:15:31 AM »

The latest trailer features even more intergalactic action.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23317

 The latest trailer for Metroid: Other M was released at Nintendo's E3 press conference. It features plenty of action scenes as well as scenes from the storyline. Metroid: Other M will be released on August 31.    

[See Mario play volleyball, hockey, dodgeball and even basketball in this new trailer.]

42

TalkBack / Mario Sports Mix E3 Trailer

« on: June 15, 2010, 09:08:22 AM »

See Mario play volleyball, hockey, dodgeball and even basketball in this new trailer.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23316

 Mario Sports Mix aims to feature four new sports games in one title. Mario Sports Mix features two sports Mario has never participated in before: volleyball and dodgeball. Mario had played basketball in Square Enix's Mario Hoops 3-on-3 for the Nintendo DS, while last year's Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games featured the hockey event.    

Gameplay is reminiscent of classic Mario Sports titles such as Mario Power Tennis, including special Mario inspired attacks.    

More can be seen in the trailer below:  

[Kirby enters a new world made out of yarn in his latest adventure for Wii.]

43

TalkBack / Kirby's Epic Yarn Trailer

« on: June 15, 2010, 09:02:37 AM »

Kirby enters a new world made out of yarn in his latest adventure for Wii.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23315

 Kirby's Epic Yarn is a brand new Kirby adventure in which he enters a world made entire out of yarn and other cloth materials. This allows Kirby to shape shift to attack enemies and reveal new places.    

More of the gameplay can be seen in this E3 trailer:  

[See Link battle giant enemies in this MotionPlus-enabled game.]

44

TalkBack / The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword Trailer

« on: June 15, 2010, 04:58:06 PM »

See Link battle giant enemies in this MotionPlus-enabled game.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23314

 Nintendo has released the trailer for The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword. As demonstrated by Miyamoto at Nintendo's press conference, Skyward Sword will feature 1:1 sword controls as well as enhanced aiming features. The trailer shows off the game's unique graphical style, which features Twilight Princess' design combined with Wind Waker's colors.    

More can be seen in the trailer:    

 

[Today's press conference reveals that the handheld has considerable industry backing right out of the gate.]

45

TalkBack / Nintendo Discusses 3DS Game Lineup

« on: June 15, 2010, 02:42:47 PM »

Today's press conference reveals that the handheld has considerable industry backing right out of the gate.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23282

 With today's official unveiling of the Nintendo 3DS, Satoru Iwata also touched on upcoming games for the system.  The handheld looks to have a little of something for everyone, hardcore gamers included.    

Nintendo's Kid Icarus Uprising is the mystery project handled by Masahiro Sakurai's Project Sora. Uprising places legendary character Pit in what appears to be a shooter in the vein of Space Harrier or Panzer Dragoon.  Many different types of mythological enemies are represented, and the graphics are gorgeous and look to be on par with Wii visuals. There will be a 3D trailer playing on the E3 show floor.      

It was also teased that Shigeru Miyamoto is working on a sequel to Nintendogs entitled Nintendogs+Cats.    

Third-party offerings were also discussed.  While many projects are still certainly in the planning stages, Square Enix is planning a Kingdom Hearts title, Capcom is bringing Resident Evil to the platform, and Konami is doing the same with Metal Gear Solid.  Activision is working on DJ Hero, and Harmonix is also working on a game of their own.  Ubisoft is making Assassin's Creed: Lost Legacy, and THQ will be creating a Saint's Row title.  EA will also be there with Madden NFL, and Namco will have an entry in the Ridge Racer series.    

We'll have more information on 3DS software - in particular what's being shown on the E3 show floor - as it becomes available.

[Step aside Samus, the big ape is the next delivery from Retro!]

46

TalkBack / Retro Studios Bringing Donkey Kong to Wii

« on: June 15, 2010, 01:54:12 PM »

Step aside Samus, the big ape is the next delivery from Retro!
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23279

 Nintendo's E3 Press Conference has revealed Donkey Kong Country Returns, a new Wii game from Retro Studios.    

The game is in the same style as the old Donkey Kong Country games, but on a much grander scale. Featuring beautiful visuals and interaction with both foreground and background objects, it is a side-scrolling platformer that truly takes the Donkey Kong concept to the next level.    

Donkey Kong Country Returns arrives this holiday season.

[The pink puffball is back in a BIG way!]

47

TalkBack / Nintendo Unveils Kirby's Epic Yarn for Wii

« on: June 15, 2010, 01:42:57 PM »

The pink puffball is back in a BIG way!
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23277

 Today's E3 Press Conference from Nintendo revealed Kirby's Epic Yarn, a new Kirby platformer for Wii.    

The game features Kirby running through colorful "yarn"-themed environments, pulling away strings from underneath objects and monsters in order to progress.    

Kirby's Epic Yarn will be released this fall.

[On the eve of Nintendo's E3 conference, nice new games are released today.]

48

TalkBack / This Week in Nintendo Downloads

« on: June 14, 2010, 12:57:53 PM »

On the eve of Nintendo's E3 conference, nice new games are released today.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23257

 This week, DSiWare sees the most releases with five new titles available for download, WiiWare gets three games, and Virtual Console once again receives just one title.    

The first DSiWare title is A Kappa’s Trail, published by Nintendo. A Kappa’s Trail has players guiding a creature called Kappa by drawing a trail on the touch screen, collecting coins and avoiding enemies in the process. A Kappa’s Trail can be downloaded for 500 DSi Points ($5.00).    

From Sanuk Games comes the second DSiWare title this week, Telegraph Crosswords. The object of the game is to complete various crossword puzzles. For 500 DSi Points ($5.00) players can complete over 500 puzzles.    

EA brings us the third DSiWare title, called Flips: Silent but Deadly. The story is that the students have noticed an odd behavioral pattern in their teacher and thus must solve this mystery. The title can be downloaded for 500 DSi Points ($5.00).    

The fourth DSiWare title comes from Abylight, and is entitled Music on: Electronic Keyboard. Players can create symphonies on various instruments. The music simulator can be downloaded for 200 DSi Points ($2.00).    

The last DSiWare title for the week is 16 Shot! SHOOTING WATCH, from Hudson. The app simulates the watch used to determine how many button presses players can get per second. The watch can be downloaded for 200 DSi Points ($2.00).    

From PopCap Games Inc. comes this week’s first WiiWare title, Bejeweled 2. Available for 1,000 Wii Points ($10.00), Bejeweled 2 retains the gameplay that made the first game popular with casual gamers while adding more levels and options.    

Arcade Sports is the second WiiWare title this week, coming from Icon Games Entertainment. At 800 Wii Points ($8.00), the title features four classic arcade games: Bowling, Air Hockey, Pool and Snooker.    

The final WiiWare title for the week is Yard Sale Hidden Treasures: Sunnyville from Konami.  The game is a hidden object title in which players must find hidden objects scattered throughout a yard sale. The title can be downloaded for 500 Wii Points ($5.00).    

The final title for this update is Shadow of the Ninja from Natsume. Originally released for the NES, Shadow of the Ninja features two ninjas protecting a city from evil. The classic title can be obtained for 500 Wii Points ($5.00).    

In addition to the Weekly Downloads, Nintendo has also updated their Wario Ware: D.I.Y games, featuring a new Big Name title from EnjoyUp Games. The micrograme is based on their title Chronos Twin.
   

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD: NO MORE TEACHERS, NO MORE BOOKS - GIVE THESE GREAT NEW GAMES A LOOK    

June 14, 2010    

School may be out, but there's no shortage of interesting subjects for you to learn about: Fascinating spirits, dazzling gems and stealthy ninjas are all ready to be discovered in this week's lineup of new game downloads for Nintendo® systems. Guide a mythical spirit through a series of puzzling trials as he attempts to make his way to the human world in A Kappa's Trail for the Nintendo DSiWareTM service. Experience a famous puzzle game on America's top-selling home console with Bejeweled® 2 for the WiiWareTM service. A total of nine new games are now available for download, but that's not the only big news this week. The annual E3 Expo kicks off in Los Angeles on June 15, and Nintendo is inviting fans with broadband Internet access to watch a live video stream of its E3 Expo presentation. Go to e3.nintendo.com at 9 a.m. Pacific time on Tuesday, June 15, and watch all of Nintendo's announcements as they happen.    

You're also invited to check out the latest addition to the "Big Name Games" section of the WarioWareTM: D.I.Y. series, which features downloadable microgames from some of the industry's most talented figures. This week, the team at EnjoyUp Games takes the spotlight with a new Chronos Twins microgame. New "Big Name Games" will be added every Monday through July 26, all available to download for zero Nintendo DSi PointsTM to anyone with broadband Internet access and a copy of either WarioWare: D.I.Y. for the Nintendo DSTM family of systems or WarioWare: D.I.Y. Showcase software for the WiiWare service. Visit the Nintendo Channel on your WiiTM system today to learn more about these games.    

Nintendo DSiWare
   

A Kappa's Trail
 Publisher: Nintendo
 Players: 1
 ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) – Comic Mischief
 Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
 Description: Step into the world of a kappa, a mythical river spirit famous in Japanese folklore, as he tries to make his way to the human world. In addition to the challenging main game, you'll find three different minigames to further improve your kappa-related skills. You'll start your journey in Kappa Cove, a good place to go exploring, practice getting around and munch on a few fish. The intuitive controls are all handled with the stylus (draw a trail and the kappa will follow it), but the helpful Chumfish is more than willing to teach you the basics. Once you begin your path down the Kappa Trail, you'll encounter coins to collect, boulders to shatter and various mini-kappas that can help you in specific ways. Just be sure to avoid the Devil Hand. If you need a break, you can collect paintings or cassettes from the Chumfish Shack, count plates at a sushi restaurant or test your mettle in the treacherous Trial of Tiles. With its cute graphics and charming story, your time with the kappa will certainly be memorable. Who knows what you'll find as you make your way through A Kappa's Trail?    

Telegraph Crosswords
 Publisher: Sanuk Games
 Players: 1
 ESRB Rating: T (Teen) – Drug Reference, Mild Language, Mild Suggestive Themes
 Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
 Description: Play crossword puzzles from the Telegraph like you've never played them before. Discover 500 puzzles of multiple types. You're in for many hours of game play. With its handy interface and intuitive controls, this game transfigures the classic pen-and-paper experience. Notable features include:  

 
• A huge selection of quick puzzles, cryptic puzzles and general-knowledge puzzles.
 
• Registration of best times in the Hall of Fame.
 
• Interactive hints to prevent you from getting stuck.
 
• Auto-save function so you can stop and resume a puzzle at any time.
 

 Flips: Silent But Deadly
 Publisher: Electronic Arts
 Players: 1
 Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
 Description: When Mr. Watts, the science teacher, turns up for class and tries to open his briefcase with his teeth, James, Alexander and Lenny realize he's not quite himself. The friends investigate and uncover a plot so dangerous that the life of every pupil and teacher is at risk. How will they foil the plot and restore Mr. Watts to normal? The new Flips range brings modern classics to the Nintendo DSiWare service. Readers can collect, solve, interact and learn as they progress through various stories and challenges.    

Music on: Electronic Keyboard
 Publisher: Abylight
 Players: 1
 ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
 Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
 Description: Get creative and spend relaxing moments transforming your Nintendo DSiTMsystem into a complete electronic keyboard with a great variety of instruments and rhythms. This is the perfect way to have fun and impress your friends with your musical creations. Whether you're already an expert or just taking your first steps, Electronic Keyboard will help you capture your inspiration wherever you are. Features include:  

 
• Automatic accompaniment function with chord recognition
 
• Up to eight user-definable chords
 
• Five different styles, each with four variations
 
• Independent drum, bass and chorus parts
 
• Six-octave keyboard (two visible)
 
• Pitch-bend function
 
• 16 instruments
 
• Integrated sequencer
 
• Metronome
 
• Recording and replay option
 

   

16 Shot! SHOOTING WATCH
 Publisher: Hudson Entertainment
 Players: 1
 ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
 Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
 Description: Back in the 8-bit glory days, Hudson's own "Master Higgins" (a.k.a. Takahashi Meijin) made a splash in the gaming world with his astonishing trigger-finger speed of 16 shots per second. Can you break the Master's record? A graph analysis feature breaks down your stats and indicates your weak spots. Use it effectively to improve your trigger-finger performance. If you get a high score, you can leave a customized signature using the touch screen. Get your family and friends to compete for some serious rapid-fire fun.    

WiiWare
   

Bejeweled 2
 Publisher: PopCap Games, Inc.
 Players: 1
 ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
 Price: 1,000 Wii PointsTM
 Description: Get set to play the world's No. 1 puzzle game, now available for the Wii console. Match sparkling gems three at a time to make them burst in showers of color and points. Match four or more to create flashy power gems that boost your score and your mood with brilliant cascades and combos. Soar to gem-matching heights in Classic mode, or speed through matches against the clock in Action mode. For even more dazzling fun, bump up your brain waves with multi-faceted Puzzles, or enter the Zen state of Endless play. Every match is high-carat fun!    

Arcade Sports
 Publisher: Icon Games Entertainment
 Players: 1-2
 ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
 Price: 800 Wii Points
 Description: Arcade Sports consists of a selection of four full-featured arcade sports games including Air Hockey, Bowling, Pool and Snooker. The following modes are available:  

 
• PRACTICE: This mode allows you to play a practice game and brush up on your skills.
 
• VERSUS MATCH: Play a one-on-one "friendly" match versus any of the game opponents in any game type.
 
• SEASON MODE: Season Mode is a series of linked tournaments with 10 tournaments of mixed game types. The objective is to make it to the top of the rankings. Play through each event in turn. After each one, you'll be awarded a world ranking position and achievement rewards.
 
• MULTIPLAYER: Arcade Sports allows up to two players to compete head-to-head in a versus match on one Wii console.
 

   

Yard Sale Hidden Treasures: Sunnyville
 Publisher: Konami Digital Entertainment
 Players: 1
 ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) – Alcohol and Tobacco Reference, Mild Blood, Mild Suggestive Themes
 Price: 500 Wii Points
 Description: Welcome to the town of Sunnyville! Search local yard sales on your mission to find hidden treasures and objects. Use your fantastic finds to decorate your dream home in a competition to win the illustrious "Superstar Homes Magazine Contest!" Beat the clock or play at your own pace, searching for hundreds of items hidden in fun locales. Enjoy nonstop challenges in this expansive seek-and-find game.    

Virtual Console
   

Shadow of the Ninja
 Original platform: NESTM
 Publisher: Natsume Inc.
 Players: 1-2
 ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) – Fantasy Violence
 Price: 500 Wii Points
 Description: Get ready for furious side-scrolling, platforming ninja action. The mad emperor, Garuda, has the city trapped in his diabolical claws. Only two brave ninja warriors dare to stand against him. They move as silently as shadows in the snow, swift and graceful as the wind, and strike with the explosive fury of razor-clawed tigers. Playing solo or cooperatively with a friend, you'll slice, bomb and shuriken your way through Garuda's army of vicious soldiers, agile ninjas and monstrous robots. Use your ninja skills to hang from moving platforms, leap over lethal pitfalls and dodge diabolical traps. Collect deadly power-ups to give yourself an edge against the overwhelming odds. It'll take all of your platforming prowess to navigate the game's 13 intense levels and bring some old-fashioned ninja justice to Garuda.    

Nintendo adds new titles to the Nintendo DSi Shop and the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time on Mondays. Users with broadband Internet access can redeem Wii Points or Nintendo DSi Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel. Nintendo DSi Points can be purchased in the Nintendo DSi Shop. A Nintendo Points CardTMcan be purchased at retail locations. All points from one Nintendo Points Card must be redeemed in either the Nintendo DSi Shop or the Wii Shop Channel. They are not transferable and cannot be divided between the two systems.    

Remember that both Wii and Nintendo DSi feature parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other features, visit Wii.com or NintendoDSi.com.

[In addition to the DSi version, Spirit Hunters Inc. will also receive a 3DS version.]

49

TalkBack / Nnooo Working on 3DS Version of Spirit Hunters Inc.

« on: June 04, 2010, 10:03:04 AM »

In addition to the DSi version, Spirit Hunters Inc. will also receive a 3DS version.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23196

 In an interview conducted by Cronogenesis, Nnooo has announced that their latest title, Spirit Hunters Inc., will be released on 3DS in the near future. In addition to the 3DS version, Spirit Hunters Inc. will also be making an appearance as DSiWare.    

Nic Watt stated the following in the interview:    

"We are indeed planning on bringing Spirit Hunters Inc to the 3DS as well as the DSi. Our aim with Spirit Hunters Inc is to have two DSi versions and two 3DS versions with the 3DS ones making specific use of the new hardware as well as hopefully containing some new gameplay features too!"    

Spirit Hunters Inc. is set to be released for DSiWare and 3DS in late 2010.    

Thanks to BlacknMild2k1 for the news tip!

[Two versions of the game will be released.]

50

TalkBack / Square Enix Announces New WiiWare Game

« on: June 04, 2010, 10:01:11 AM »

Two versions of the game will be released.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=23195

 Square Enix has announced a new WiiWare title called Kumanage. The game takes place in a fantasy world inside of a mysterious picture book hidden inside of an old mansion. Kumanage is described as being a puzzle game in which you "Paper Bears" with the Wii Remote in order to solve puzzles.    

There will be two versions of Kumanage, featuring different playable characters. Players will play as a boy named Kiina to protect the blue crystals in the title "Kumanage: The Blue Gem that Kiina Hates -- Battle Version", while "Kumanage: The Red Candy that Piina Likes -- Puzzle Version" will feature the little girl Piina collecting red candy.    

Kumanage will be released in Japan on June 8, and will be priced at 1000 Wii Points ($10.00). A teaser site for the game is live,  confirming that the game has received a ESRB rating (E for Everyone), indicating a future North America release.