Messages

[In retaliation for Nintendo announcing a front-lit GBA, the pioneers cut the price on the AfterBurner ...]

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TalkBack / AfterBurner Price Drop

« on: January 09, 2003, 01:13:38 PM »

In retaliation for Nintendo announcing a front-lit GBA, the pioneers cut the price on the AfterBurner ...

Triton Labs has posted a message on their website, in addition to e-mailing customers, informing them of a $10 price drop on the AfterBurner.  Below are the relevant points.

"As of January 9, 2003, we are proud to announce that the price of the Afterburner kit has been lowered to $25. We intend to remain competitive with our flagship product despite the recent weather change in the portable gaming industry. Indeed at this new price point the Afterburner's value for current GBA owners is even more impressive than before.

Keep an eye out for two new product releases (neither light related) in the next three months. We are expecting to roll out our newest creation by the end of January. And the subsequent product is of epic proportions.  

To all of our customers: we will never forget your support and we hope you enjoy your Afterburners for years to come."

[Billy just phoned in from CES. Here's the skinny on the newest in the Game Boy line!]

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TalkBack / GBA SP Hands-On Details

« on: January 09, 2003, 08:18:34 AM »

Billy just phoned in from CES.  Here's the skinny on the newest in the Game Boy line!

Billy's had a very busy day in Las Vegas today, but he made sure to take a few minutes to phone in and give you guys the scoop on Game Boy Advance SP.  He'll be back later with more detailed impressions, photos, and maybe video, but for now, here's a little snack:

• The original Name for the Game Boy Advance SP was "Game Boy Advance DX".
• The "SP" stands for "Special".
• The GBA SP has been in development since the standard Game Boy Advance was released.
• All accessories work with it, everything.  Including the e-Reader.
• The GBA SP's internals are the same as the standard GBA, just modified to fit the form factor.
• Screen is the same size as the standard GBA.
• "I think it feels better than the original Game Boy Advance." - Billy
• The Japanese market is getting Indigo (Purple), Black, and Platinum, while the US is getting Cobalt (metallic blue), and Platinum.  Cobalt and Indigo are DIFFERENT colors.
• Kirby's Tilt and Tumble (and other Tilt Pak games) will NOT work, due to the orientation of the cartridge slot and the unit.  Pokemon Pinball and other Rumble Pak games WILL work.
• Lid is held closed by friction only, no latch or magnet.
• Screen is very solid, will only move on its own under extreme movement.  There should be no problem with jiggling the unit while playing and having the screen move.
• LED will still turn red when battery is running low, just like the standard Advance.
• Light has a simple on/off button near the hinge, visible in all the screenshots
• SP is cased in plastic, painted for the metallic colors.
• Headphone adapter is indeed sold separately, no pricing yet.
• There is a screw on the bottom that can be used to access the battery, but it's currently unknown if battery will be user replaceable.
• The GBA SP CAN be used while on AC Power.
• Screen is lit from the sides, just like the Afterburner, but the GBA SP is lit from ALL sides, not just the top down like the AfterBurner.
• GBA SP looks better than the Afterburner, with no blue tint.
• The single mono speaker was kept for size reasons, and consistency with previous units.
• The GBA will continue to be manufactured, no word yet on a price drop for the GBA.
• GBA SP is NOT a replacement for the GBA, meant to address a different market segment.  It's an expansion of the series, not a redesign.
• Targetted towards older gamers and adults.
• Shoulder buttons feel great.  Not too small, feel better than the original.  No finger fatigue was noted, although longer play times will tell for sure.

That's it for now.  Stay tuned, Billy will be back later with more!

[Fresh from the mouth of the foremost videogame journalist comes the details about Nintendo's update to the popular handheld ...]

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TalkBack / Game Boy Advance SP Details!

« on: January 06, 2003, 07:01:18 PM »

Fresh from the mouth of the foremost videogame journalist comes the details about Nintendo's update to the popular handheld ...

Skimming the article, here are the details.  We'll have more info when the official announcement comes tomorrow.

• Self-contained LCD screen light, Flip-Up Screen
• Initially available in 3 metallic colors:  Indigo, Black, and Silver
• Light is able to be turned off
• Built in rechargeable lithium ion battery pack, 10 hours with the light on, 18 with the light off
• Up to 32,000 simultaneous colours
• Display Size 40.8mm x 61.2mm
• Resolution 240 x 160 dot
• 32 - bit CPU with embedded memory
• Separate adapters for link cables, and headphones
• Clamshell design, folds into a 3-inch square, an inch thick
• Dimensions are 3.33 x 3.23 x .95 (82mmW x 84.6mmH x 24.3mmD) and it weighs approximately 143g
• Compatible with virtually all existing Game Boy & Game Boy Advance games
• $99 Price Tag
• Japanese release date: Feb. 14, 2003, priced at around 12,500 yen
• European release date: March 28, 2003, priced at around €129 - €139  

More details coming soon.

[It's in the same city, in the same venue, but it ain't E3. But it might be as close as you're going to get.]

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TalkBack / Get ready for E3 ... Part 2!

« on: December 10, 2002, 07:00:24 PM »

It's in the same city, in the same venue, but it ain't E3.  But it might be as close as you're going to get.

E3 happens in May at the LA Convention Center, you can almost set your calendar by it.  But the only problem with this major industry event is that YOU CAN'T GO.  E3 is for the industry professionals only, so all that early gaming goodness is off-limits to Joe Gamer.  At least, it was.  Get ready for the Ultimate Gamers Expo, August 15-17.

The UGE aspires to be the E3 that the public can attend.  Started by Wayne Pepper and Joe Hubbard, the plan is to get you access to the same sorts of workshops and exhibits that we see in May, and all for a $20 fee.  Well, that, and the airfare, lodging, etc.

There's no word yet on the companies that will be attending, and it's probably not unreasonable to assume that some companies will take a "wait and see" attitude before deciding if they want to spend the money to have an exhibit.  But with a projected attendance of over a hundred thousand, that might be enough to convince the PR folks that it's worth the risk.

[The very tough reviewers at Famitsu have taken on "The Wind Waker" and have a verdict. Read on to find out what it is.]

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TalkBack / Zelda: Kaze no Takuto reviewed in Famitsu

« on: December 10, 2002, 06:23:11 PM »

The very tough reviewers at Famitsu have taken on "The Wind Waker" and have a verdict.  Read on to find out what it is.

We're still waiting for our Japanese correspondent to get us his translation of the review, but the next Zelda game has already made history.

Zelda no Densetsu: Kaze no Takuto is only the third game in Famitsu history to receive a 10/10/10/10 ...  a PERFECT score.  The other two were Vagrant Story (yes, you read that right), and the Dreamcast masterpiece that was Soul Calibur.

Anyone who had any doubts about this game and it's graphical style should proceed to choke on their tongues now, as it appears to be the one thing that has managed to catch the attention of the reviewers and not let go.

We'll have some translated comments as soon as we can.

[In an interview with Japan's weekly Playboy magazine, Miyamoto drops a couple bombs.]

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TalkBack / Miyamoto confirms two sequels

« on: December 10, 2002, 05:01:23 AM »

In an interview with Japan's weekly Playboy magazine, Miyamoto drops a couple bombs.

Sometimes, big news happens in strange places.  Miyamoto told Japan's weekly version of Playboy about a couple of games in development.

Miyamoto refers to Super Mario Sunshine as a deluxe version of Mario 64, and acknowledges that there wasn't enough new and different enough to garner the sales Nintendo was expecting.  "When you start thinking that you have to raise the number of consoles (in homes), you realize that having a lot of brand names is important. ...But I still want to make new things."

When asked what is planned for after Zelda, Miyamoto replied, "We're developing Pikmin 2 and the Mario 128 that we showed to everyone at a press announcement earlier. You will feel something new in this game that wasn't in Mario Sunshine."

[Now you're playing with 2.4GHz power ...]

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TalkBack / Mitsubishi to supply 2.4GHz WaveBird chip

« on: December 09, 2002, 05:20:16 PM »

Now you're playing with 2.4GHz power ...

Mitsubishi Materials announced today that Nintendo will be using it's 2.4GHz ceramic wireless antenna in a chip in it's WaveBird wireless controller for the GameCube.

This is a bit of a surprise, as the current WaveBirds use 900MHz technology, similar to the technology used in analog cordless phones.  The 2.4GHZ technology could be used to extend range as well as battery life.  However, it's possible that 2.4GHz frequencies could interfere with many popular computer peripherals around the home, such as Bluetooth and WiFi networks, or 2.4GHz digital portable phones.

We'll have more on this story soon.

[Kids Rally to Break Records; Honor Pink Hero by Blowing, Slurping and Chewing All Things Pink]

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TalkBack / Nintendo's Kirby '"Blow Out" in Kirby, Texas

« on: December 07, 2002, 07:41:12 AM »

Kids Rally to Break Records; Honor Pink Hero by Blowing, Slurping and Chewing All Things Pink

KIRBY, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 7, 2002--It's not every day residents of Kirby, Texas, celebrate the arrival of a real-life hero. And when he's round, pink and his name also happens to be Kirby, it calls for one "Big Blow Out!"

Kirby, one of the most widely recognized video game characters in the world and the sworn protector of the wondrous star-shaped planet, Dream Land, celebrates the debut of his new game, Kirby(TM): Nightmare in Dream Land on Nintendo's Game Boy(R) Advance with a tournament style series of contests at Kirby Junior High School. The citizens of Kirby turned out this morning to watch kids put their Kirby-like skills to the test.

His royal pinkness himself, famous for inhaling and blowing out objects, and copying enemies powers to do battle, cheered contestants on as they blew the world's largest pink bubble gum bubble ("World's Largest Bubble"), ate the most pink pie in record time ("World's Fastest Pink Pie Plunge") and blew up three-foot pink balloons (World's Strongest Lungs").

To determine a grand-prize winner, finalists went head-to-head in the "World's Biggest Blow Out" competition requiring them to fill their mouths with three pieces of gum and then blow out the gum as far as possible. Juan Ceh, 13, from Kirby, Texas took home the coveted title, blowing his wad a total distance of 15 feet.

Kirby recently hit television superstardom on Fox Network's Fox Box with his nationally broadcast cartoon, "Kirby: Right Back at Ya!" and has always been a top-selling franchise character for Nintendo, but to Kirby, nothing is more exciting than celebrating a first appearance on a new Nintendo game system in Kirby, Texas.

More than 20 million Kirby games have sold worldwide. Nintendo is spending more than $10 million over the next two years to support Kirby in his "superstardom" through licensed products, cartoons and video games.

"We're proud of Kirby's accomplishments as he continues to transcend his past success to become the star of his own hit TV show and his first Game Boy Advance video game," says Gail Tilden, vice president, brand management, Nintendo of America, Inc. "We know this will be a day the residents of Kirby, Texas, and Kirby himself, will never forget."

Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land is available for $34.95 and rated E for everyone. Game Boy Advance is available for $79.95.

As the worldwide leader and innovator in the creation of interactive entertainment, Nintendo Co. Ltd., of Kyoto, Japan, manufactures and markets hardware and software for its popular home video game systems. The systems include Game Boy(R), Nintendo(R) 64, Game Boy Advance and Nintendo GameCube(TM). Since the release of its first home video game system in 1983, Nintendo has sold more than 1.6 billion video games worldwide, creating enduring industry icons such as Mario(TM) and Donkey Kong(R) and launching such franchises as Zelda(TM) and Pokemon(R). As a wholly owned subsidiary, Nintendo of America Inc., based in Redmond, Wash., serves as headquarters for Nintendo's operations in the Western Hemisphere.

For more information about Nintendo product visit the company's websites, www.nintendo.com or www.kirbykirbykirby.com.

[Nintendo is offering coupon discounts, read on to find out how much you can save!]

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TalkBack / Save money with Nintendo Dec. 8-14

« on: December 05, 2002, 06:37:03 AM »

Nintendo is offering coupon discounts, read on to find out how much you can save!

Nintendo is offering a one-week coupon discount to help lower costs this holiday season.  One coupon will save you $25 on a GameCube system.  The other coupon will save you $5 per title up to a $25 maximum.  That's a possible $50 in savings!

It should be noted that there is a limited selection of games (including the Wave Bird) that you can use to get your discount.  Also, this is not an INSTANT discount, but more of a mail-in rebate program.  The rebate can only be redeemed for purchases made between the 8th and 14th of December, so if you've already made your purchases, it might be wise to return them and repurchase next week.

Below is the list of titles you can save on.

• Nintendo Wave Bird Wireless Controller
• Metroid Prime
• Resident Evil 0
• TimeSplitters 2
• Die Hard Vendetta
• 007 Nightfire
• Tony Hawk Pro Skater 4
• Super Smash Bros. Melee
• Star Wars: Bounty Hunter
• Mortal Kombat Deadly Alliance
• Madden 2003
• Need for Speed Hot Pursuit 2
• Godzilla Destroy All Monsters Melee
• The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
• Sonic Mega Collection
• Eternal Darkness
• Beach Spikers
• Resident Evil
• Virtual Striker 2002
• Capcom vs. SNK 2 EO
• Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
• StarFox Adventures
• Super Monkey Ball 2
• Star Wars: Jedi Outcast
• Evolution Worlds
• Super Mario Sunshine
• WWE Wrestlemania X8
• Swingerz Golf

[Turn your GBA into a digital camera, for under $40.]

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TalkBack / Nyko ships the WormCam for GBA

« on: December 02, 2002, 03:33:10 PM »

Turn your GBA into a digital camera, for under $40.

Nyko Technologies Announces Availability of WormCam, the First Color Digital Camera for Nintendo Game Boy Advance

Free Downloadable Software Upgrade for WormCam Now Available on Nyko's Web Site

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 2, 2002-- Whether you're traveling by sleigh or by car this holiday season, Nyko® Technologies(TM) introduces a great way to capture the fun and play video games on the road. Available at most major retailers, the WormCam(TM) is the first color digital camera for Nintendo Game Boy Advance. From the creators of the innovative WormLight(TM), which spawned the portable lighting category, the WormCam attaches easily to the top of the Game Boy Advance allowing users to take, view and edit color pictures directly on the screen.

Appealing to the international spy in everyone, Nyko's WormCam is affordably priced at under $40 and also features a unique SpyCam mode that allows pictures to be taken while the camera is unattended. Photos can be taken in two modes, either by motion detection or time-lapse photography. The WormCam can store up to 22 pictures, which can then be edited on the Game Boy Advance screen or uploaded to a computer for editing and emailing. The WormCam comes complete with a PC computer link cable and image editing software. In addition, an internal battery allows the images to be saved until ready to be deleted.

Best of all, there's no need for a separate, more cumbersome digital camera on road trips with the lightweight WormCam. Measuring only 3" x 3.5" x 1.5", the digital camera attaches by utilizing the port located at the top of the Game Boy Advance. Once attached, the system becomes a working digital camera boasting a 10-bit RGB 356x292-pixel resolution. Equipped with a lens that rotates 180 degrees from front to back, it's perfect for self-portraits.

Nyko is also offering a free downloadable software upgrade for WormCam on its Web site at www.Nyko.com. The new WormLink software provides users with the following features:

• Faster download speeds to the computer
• Control of the SpyCam feature directly from the computer
• Enhancement of pictures by changing sharpness, brightness, contrast and color balance
• Creation of folders in a personal directory for easier access of saved pictures

To download the WormCam upgrade, simply visit Nyko's Web site and click on the "New PC WormLink" icon located at the top of the Home page.

[The man responsible for Metal Gear Solid 2 is incorporating an intersting feature with a GBA cart ...]

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TalkBack / Kojima making innovative GBA game

« on: November 27, 2002, 07:12:52 PM »

The man responsible for Metal Gear Solid 2 is incorporating an intersting feature with a GBA cart ...

Hideo Kojima, the lead man on the Metal Gear Solid 2 project is working on a new game for Game Boy Advance, simply titled "My Sun".

In what has to be one of the most novel ideas for a game, the cartridge contains a small light sensor, which in conjunction with the game software, can alter parameters based on the amount of light in the room.

The idea is simple, certain puzzles and situations would require certain amounts of "sunlight" in order to proceed.  If you need to sneak through an area, you'll need darkness.  To vanquish a vampire, you need bright sunlight.

No word on a release date yet, or even if this title will make it to the States, but we'll be keeping our eye on it.

[Our resident dragon translates the press release for anyone who doesn't trust Babelfish.]

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TalkBack / Game Boy Player Press Release Translated

« on: November 19, 2002, 05:02:53 AM »

Our resident dragon translates the press release for anyone who doesn't trust Babelfish.

NCL president Satoru Iwata has announced plans to put the “NINTENDO GAMECUBE GAME BOY PLAYER” on the market, which allows players to play Game Boy Advance software on a television screen, available next spring..

By equipping the “GAME BOY PLAYER” to the base of the GAMECUBE, one will be able to play software from all GAME BOY platforms: Game Boy, Game  Boy Colour and Game Boy advance. (As of March 31 there are over 1400 titles spanning all platforms and over 170 million games sold in domestic markets.) Players will utilize the NINTENDO GAMECUBE controller to play the games, though there will also be the option of playing with a GBA by using the GameCube Game Boy Advance Link Cable.  

Beginning with The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords, and Pocket Monsters Ruby and Sapphire, it will let players build up their characters on the television screen and then transfer them to the Game Boy Advance for multiplayer use. This will help the competitive play style be born.   The “GAME BOY PLAYER” will debut in Japan around March 2003, while the American release is scheduled for May...Europe and Australia will be announced sometime in the future.

*Note: Some Game Boy titles are incompatible with the unit.

Name: NINTENDO GAMECUBE GAME BOY PLAYER

Release Date: MARCH 2003

MSRP: 5000 yen

Dimensions: 150 X 57.3 X 155.1 mm

Weight: Approx 370 grammes

Power Use: N/A. Draws Power from the GAMECUBE at 0.8 W

Other: Includes GAME BOY PLAYER boot disc.

Special thanks to Shouta for translation aid.

[GBA add-on for GameCube to be launched March 2003 in Japan.]

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TalkBack / Nintendo Announces GBA add-on for GameCube

« on: November 18, 2002, 08:33:58 PM »

GBA add-on for GameCube to be launched March 2003 in Japan.

Details are still a little sketchy right now, but here's what we can tell you about this "Super Game Boy Advance" (not the official name):

• Releasing Spring 2003 (March)
• Approximately 5000 Yen (around $49.99 USD)
• Sits under the GameCube and plugs into the High Speed Parallel Port
• Available in all four Japanese GameCube colors.
• Powered from the GameCube, no external power supply needed
• Bundled with a "Game Boy Startup Disc"

We'll have more information soon.  Stay tuned.

[Today is the official release date of Metroid Prime, and some stores have recieved shipments ...]

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TalkBack / IT'S PRIME TIME!

« on: November 18, 2002, 08:47:44 AM »

Today is the official release date of Metroid Prime, and some stores have recieved shipments ...

Don't shoot the messengers if your particular store still doesn't have it, but several of the Electronics Boutique and GameStop chain stores have managed to snag their shipment of Metroid Prime.  Several more stores are reporting getting their shipments later tonight.  The rest will have the game Tuesday.

If you have pre-ordered the game, you should be getting a call telling you when you can pick up the game.  Otherwise, you'd be wise to call ahead and ASK if they've received Metroid Prime.  Just remember, be respectful, and no matter what they say, THANK THEM and hang up.  Do NOT keep calling repeatedly.  The people that run these stores are going to be very busy for the next month and a half, and they don't need you making their lives harder.  

Most major chains don't get their shipments sent directly to them, they come from a central warehouse, so these stores are likely not going to have the game until Wednesday.  Stores like Target, Best Buy, Circuit City, etc. would be good places to check on Wednesday if the "mall stores" are out of stock.

If you're still on the fence about whether or not to get Metroid Prime, we'll have more impressions tonight, and a review tomorrow.  And of course, there are existing impressions for you to read right now.

Not to be forgotten in all the hullabaloo over Prime, Metroid Fusion is out today as well.  It's one of the best GBA games you can get, so make sure to give it a good look as well!

[Announcement coming at 4:30PM JAPAN time. That's 1:30AM for us in the Central Time Zone ...]

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TalkBack / Nintendo to announce new GameCube add-on

« on: November 18, 2002, 06:41:46 AM »

Announcement coming at 4:30PM JAPAN time.  That's 1:30AM for us in the Central Time Zone ...

Reuters is reporting this morning that Nintendo is holding an announcement tomorrow in Japan regarding "peripherals for it's GameCube home videogame console".

While we don't know what the announcement is set to encompass yet, we do know that Nintendo is dealing with falling profits due to various economic concerns.  It's expected that this announcement will help spur sales of it's flagship game console.  Nintendo has already announced the new Platinum colored GameCube and WaveBird wireless controller for the Japan market, in addition to an Emerald colored standard controller.

As soon as the announcement is made, PGC will be here to break it all down for you.  Stay Tuned!

[Metroid Prime releases tomorrow. Let us do your hunting, and get yours for less!]

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TalkBack / Discounted GameCube bundles? You Bet!

« on: November 17, 2002, 05:12:16 AM »

Metroid Prime releases tomorrow.  Let us do your hunting, and get yours for less!

Sunday's ad circulars came with a load of surprises, namely several stores offering money off of Metroid Prime when purchased with a GameCube system.  Here's a rundown of where you can get these deals, for how much, and WHEN.

(Note: Prices below do NOT include local sales tax.  Please factor that into the purchase price.  Also, the release dates are estimates.  You should probably call ahead.)

Toys 'R' Us is offering a $20 discount when you purchase Metroid Prime (normally $49.99) with a GameCube (normally $149.99).  Total Cost: $179.98  Toys 'R' Us is listing the "expected in-store" date as 11/20.

Best Buy is offering a $20 savings when Metroid Prime is purchased with a GameCube system.  Total Cost: $179.98

Target is offering Metroid Prime for $19.99 when purchased with a GameCube.  Total Cost: $169.98.  Target will have the game on 11/20.

Circuit City stores are offering an instant $25 gift card with the purchase of a GameCube system at $149.99.  Additionally, Metroid Prime has a $20 off savings when purchased with the system.  Total cost: $179.98 + $25 Gift Card.  A suggestion ... Metroid Fusion is only $25.99, getting Metroid Fusion for 99 cents isn't a half bad prospect.  Again, Circuit City will have the game on 11/20.

This is most certainly not a complete rundown of what stores might have a bundle deal, nor does it take into account any regional or "mom 'n' pop" deals that you might encounter.  But if you haven't pre-ordered and can't find the game on Monday, you could do yourself a lot worse than saving yourself some cash.

[Our favorite game designer turns 50 today!]

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TalkBack / Happy Birthday Shigeru Miyamoto!

« on: November 16, 2002, 01:11:02 PM »

Our favorite game designer turns 50 today!

That tan sport coat wearing wild man, Shigeru Miyamoto turns 50 years old today.  In celebration of the event, we've compiled a little information for you about his amazing individual.

Miyamoto was born in raised in a small town outside Kyoto, Japan called Sonebe.  His natural zeal for exploring his surroundings coupled with an unparalelled imagination, resulted in the man we know today, the creator of characters like Link, Mario, Donkey Kong ... a veritable lexicon of gaming history.

Miyamoto studied Industrial Design at the Kanazawa Minici College of Industrial Arts and Crafts in 1970, taking five years to complete his course load.  Upon graduation, Miyamoto had his father get in touch with al old friend (none other than Hiroshi Yamauchi) who ran a toy company named simply, Nintendo.  Yamauchi hired Miyamoto as a staff artist, the first in the company.  It was 1977, and Miyamoto was only 24.

If this has piqued your interest, head over to the Miyamoto Shrine and read more about Nintendo's resident genius and role model to kids everywhere.

Happy Birthday, Shiggy!

[Ask and ye shall recieve, sort of.]

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TalkBack / New controller colors for Japan!

« on: November 08, 2002, 05:45:18 PM »

Ask and ye shall recieve, sort of.

Nintendo announced new controller colors for the Japanese market today.  In addition to the Platinum GameCube releasing on December 1st, there is more to come.

December 5th marks the overseas release of the Platinum WAVE BIRD, as well as new Emerald and Platinum colors for the standard GameCube controller.

No dates or plans are known for the release of either the Platinum Wave Bird or the Emerald GameCube controller for the US or other markets, however, the Platinum standard controller is already out in the States.

Looks like good things do come to those who wait ...

[If you managed to grab yourself an elusive copy of PSO and an online adapter, read this!]

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TalkBack / It's Phantasy Star Online Weekend!

« on: November 02, 2002, 07:25:21 AM »

If you managed to grab yourself an elusive copy of PSO and an online adapter, read this!

PGC is pretty pumped up about Phantasy Star Online, the first online RPG for the GameCube.  To celebrate, PGC is taking over Deneb-04 as the official PGC block.

Feel free to drop by and chat with other PGC readers, and you might even run into some of your favorite PGC Staffers ... maybe Louie The Cat will drop by!  Anything can happen on PSO Weekend!

All you need to do is choose DENEB as your ship, and BLOCK 04.

We'll see you all ONLINE!  

[Eternal Darkness is now out in Europe and Japan, and Armchair Empire pumped Denis for information about it ...]

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TalkBack / Armchair Empire interviews Denis Dyack

« on: November 01, 2002, 02:36:20 PM »

Eternal Darkness is now out in Europe and Japan, and Armchair Empire pumped Denis for information about it ...

Armchair Empire talked to Denis Dyack, head of Silicon Knights, about the recent release of Eternal Darkness.  Here's a bit of what Denis had to say ...

How much research was done for the various elements of Eternal Darkness, like the weapons, the clothing, the nature of Good and Evil?

There was a tremendous amount of research that went into the game.  Just on an historical level, we tried to make each weapon accurate.  We tried to make the gameplay at least resemble what the weapons would be like and how it would play.  Obviously, we had to make some modifications.  In real life, for example, it takes two minutes to load a musket – we didn’t want people waiting around for two minutes to load a musket.  And if you look at Eternal Darkness, there is a tremendous amount of historical facts that are left as lingering details that if people want to explore, they can.  As an example, every period or every chapter in ED a very significant event occurs for mankind.  The death of Charlemagne as an example.  It was really considered to be the beginning of the Dark Ages [in Europe].  He was bringing on the start of a renaissance thing and mysteriously died and the movement was over.  Another thing, people ask, “What were those pillars of flesh?” that were in the Forbidden City areas.  Have you ever heard of a conqueror named Tamburlaine?  

Yes.

That’s what he did.  He used to go through, conquer cities, and build pillars of flesh.  So we took those historical facts and made our own stories up with them and really hoped that people would learn things through osmosis.  

And when it comes down to Good and Evil, that’s a very difficult question or theme to tackle if done properly.  Certainly, Eternal Darkness was not black and white.  By the time you finish, you really have to wonder if Pious was really a pawn or was he in control, what choices did he really have?  We did what we could to make the player think about it and leave a dramatic impact once they finished the game.  Hopefully, when you played the game, you really thought this game did something different than most games.

Be sure to head over to Armchair Empire and read the rest of the interview!

[Too damned lazy to read the words of NOA's head honcho? We've got a recap for you, with some pretty candid stuff!]

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TalkBack / MacDougall Speech Highlights

« on: October 31, 2002, 06:04:59 PM »

Too damned lazy to read the words of NOA's head honcho?  We've got a recap for you, with some pretty candid stuff!

The following are some quick quotes and highlights of Peter MacDougall's speech at the Gerard Klauer Mattison Conference on Oct. 30, 2002.

The video game industry is being looked at in a new light, "... an industry which a few years ago was called 'obsolete' and the same industry which today they say is virtually recession-proof."

A mere handful of "top sellers" dominate the industry.  The Top 10 games tend to account for nearly 50% of the total revenue for the top thirty games.  "So far this year, the proportion is running at historic highs; through September, the top 10 games represented 56 percent of the top 30 total."

"Among all game sales, the percentage of units carrying mature ratings has gone from about six percent two years ago to over 12 percent last year. Thus far in 2002, among only the top 30 sellers, the number is almost 25 percent."

The cost of developing a top video game is well in excess of several million now, with at least one costing more than $10 Million.  Game development companies are dying or getting absorbed by larger companies, and "many are looking for a life preserver … something to rescue them from the burden of money-losing hardware or the hundreds of games that are released and then quickly forgotten. Today’s popular life preserver is called online gaming."  

Nintendo on "Online" ...

"Serious money is required to maintain the technology of a networked game, not to mention the regular infusion of new content to refresh player interest. Our master game designer, Shigeru Miyamoto, says that if he truly applied himself to an online project, it would significantly reduce the number of games he develops – because its design would never end. Beyond creative and maintenance resources, we also have to find out just where online gamers will come from.

If online play grows our market in real numbers, that’s wonderful. If, however, it merely cannibalizes existing hardcore players, the payoff may disappoint. Now, we at Nintendo don’t want to be seen as naysayers. After all, Nintendo GameCube is fully adaptable to handle both broadband and modem-enabled network games. In fact, our first such product, Sega’s excellent Phantasy Star Online just went on sale. But bottom line, if you look at online games today … promise? Yes. Life preserver? Not yet."

"We’ve created a joint venture with both Sega and Namco called “Triforce” to migrate the Nintendo GameCube technology to arcades. Not only is Nintendo GameCube’s combination of high power and low cost ideal for cutting-edge, site-based applications but there’s a game payoff for Nintendo as well.  

In the same time period that many of those new thrillers hit the arcades, Nintendo GameCube versions will be released for play at home. The first of such projects - the high-speed racer F-Zero - arrives in the front half of next year."

Metroid Prime is the talk of the internet when it comes to mature titles, and Nintendo is backing that release with "our largest, game-specific budget in over three years. As just one example, beginning November 1st, moviegoers in 6,000 theatres nationwide will start “getting primed”’ with a one-minute spot on the big screen; at the same time, TV viewers will be seeing the same one-minute spot on their not-quite-so-big screens at home."

In addition to the release of the Platinum GameCube, Cube Clubs, DVD teaser discs, Nintendo is also sponsorign the U.S.S.A. Snowboarding Grand Prix (likely in conjunction with 1080: Avalanche), partnering with Heineken, and other outside the home programs.  Nintendo is aggressively targeting the mature gamer, in light of that 25% of the top sellers being mature titles.  They liken themselves to Disney, who can still be a family-friendly company with Mario, Pokemon, etc., while still appealing to the older gamer.

Metroid isn't the only game getting the theater trailer treatment.  "Look for new software launches that include our exclusive snowboarder 1080: Avalanche for Nintendo GameCube, and dozens of titles from our third party partners, most notably, the Nintendo GameCube debut of The Legend of Zelda. Theater goers will begin seeing game trailers in the month of December, providing yet another reason to request the Nintendo GameCube system this holiday season."

Nintendo is in the software business - to stay. Nintendo is in the handheld business - to stay. And Nintendo is most certainly in the home console business - to stay. Work is well underway on the successor technology to both Game Boy Advance and Nintendo GameCube.

[If you've been on the fence because you're waiting for the Platinum GameCube and Metroid Prime ... you just ran out of excuses.]

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TalkBack / Metroid Prime,Platinum GameCube Bundle? You Bet!

« on: October 28, 2002, 08:22:09 AM »

If you've been on the fence because you're waiting for the Platinum GameCube and Metroid Prime ... you just ran out of excuses.

While we're not sure if this is an official Nintendo bundle or not, Amazon.com (In conjunction with Toys 'R' Us) is currently selling a Platinum GameCube with TWO Platinum controllers, along with Metroid Prime for $224.99.

This price does NOT reflect any sort of discount on any of the items, so it's likely that this is a Toys 'R' Us bundle and not an official Nintendo package (like the Mario Sunshine bundle).  Still, it's a golden opportunity for people who've been holding out for the best looking machine and the leading candidate for Game of the Year to pick up everything they need all at once.

Of course, if the Wave Bird isn't your thing, and you're jonsing for a Platinum Controller, Amazon has them for $24.99 as well.

Please note that these items are NOT in stock yet, and have a shipping time of 3-5 weeks.   This is to be expected, since Metroid Prime doesn't ship for another three weeks.

[Nintendo had finally given us all the details of how Metroid Fusion and Metroid Prime will link up ...]

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TalkBack / Nintendo reveals the Metroid connection ...

« on: October 25, 2002, 06:16:24 AM »

Nintendo had finally given us all the details of how Metroid Fusion and Metroid Prime will link up ...

Nintendo has finally confirmed the information Louie told you last week.  Metroid Fusion and Metroid Prime do indeed have link-up capabilities.  Here's the skinny.

If you have completed Metroid Fusion, linking the two games will unlock the ability to play the original NES Metroid in Metroid Prime.  Saving is done directly to your GameCube Memory Card.

If you have completed Metroid Prime, you can wear Samus' Fusion suit from Metroid Fusion in Metroid Prime.

All of the information was already in our Metroid Prime preview, but we're re-posting it in case you missed it.  And of course, it's 100% confirmed now.

[You can tell the holiday season is approaching when games sneak onto shelves early rather than late ...]

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TalkBack / Surprise! Tony Hawk Pro Skater 4 is in stores!

« on: October 24, 2002, 08:32:06 PM »

You can tell the holiday season is approaching when games sneak onto shelves early rather than late ...

There are a lot of games coming out next week.  In fact, over TWENTY in the past two weeks.  Sometimes, you need to be a little more aggressive to make sure your games gets seen, and not the competitor.  After all, there's nothing better than someone walking into a store intent on getting another game, and walks out with YOURS.

This is likely the reason that if you wait until next week for your copy of Tony Hawk Pro Skater 4, you're probably not going to find it.  Activision shipped the title a week early, and it's on shelves RIGHT NOW.

EB and GameStop stores on the west coast have it for sure, with other stores likely to be receiving it tomorrow.  Stores like Target and Best Buy tend to hang on for another day or two, so it may be Monday before you can get the title from those outlets.

You'd best hurry, as the game is probably going to be selling through quite strongly.

[Miss out on the Mario Sunshine bundle? You're going to get a second chance ...]

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TalkBack / Prime Time Bundle Pak

« on: October 22, 2002, 04:47:33 PM »

Miss out on the Mario Sunshine bundle?  You're going to get a second chance ...

Following on the heels of the Super Mario Sunshine Bundle, Nintendo is now offering a bundle for the upcoming Metroid Prime.

Included in the bundle is a 12-month subscription to Nintendo Power magazine, a Metroid Prime Official Strategy Guide, a Memory Card 59, and a $10 off coupon for a Wave Bird wireless controller.

The bundles will begin shipping on November 18th, and may take a few days to arrive.  If you just can't stand the wait, you can simply simply order a Nintendo Power subscription and get a Metroid Prime strategy guide for free.

Nintendo calls it a $95 value for $70, which points to the fact that all you're really getting for free is a Memory Card 59 ... the $10 off coupon is only helpful if you actually BUY a Wave Bird..  Still, it's a good deal, and will ensure your copy of what is likely going to be a major Game of the Year candidate.