Topics

126

Nintendo Gaming / NFRIT 1st Round: Viewtiful Joe (1) v The World Ends With You (8)

« on: March 21, 2014, 09:48:56 PM »

The nominations have been made, and now it's time for you to decide the most underrated game in the 15 year history of Nintendo World Report! Votes will be open for 3 days, so cast your vote and make your voice heard in the comments.

In the Hollywood region, it's #1 overall seed Viewtiful Joe v #8 seed The World Ends With You.

Viewtiful Joe: This flashy member of the legendary Capcom Five, Viewtiful Joe's amazingly detailed art style and character action made it stand out even from the platformer-loving Gamecube crowd on its 2003 release. Hideki Kamiya's first game as director, the lessons learned here are still seen with modern classics such as Wonderful 101.

vs
 The World Ends With You: If nothing else, this game's Mingle Mode would later go on to become one of the 3DS's defining features (Streetpass). But The World Ends With You also offers intense combat that uses every DS function, immense amounts of customization, a soundtrack among the best ever, and a hero who you actually want to see unthaw.

127

Nintendo Gaming / The NFRIT - For the games NWR left out of March Madness

« on: March 11, 2014, 11:21:34 PM »

So if you're familiar with March Madness, you also know about the National Invitational Tournament (or NIT), which allows quality teams to enjoy postseason success even if they don't make the big dance.

In talking with local management (Neal, the conversation is on Connectivity 125), I found a grip of games that were quite frankly, shocking omissions from the tourney field. As such, I'd like to give those games a chance to shine.

The four play-in runners up will get automatically in, but I'd like to get this to 32 games if possible. So let's see your selections. One per person, make a case, and make it a good one.

Check for your game on this sheet before nominating. The only other rule is that the game has to come out in 1999 or later to be eligible, as a celebration of the site's 15th anniversary.

128

General Chat / Nintendo Free Radio 31: Oui Are Ghost

« on: February 25, 2014, 09:09:07 PM »

There was a feature here. It's gone now. Please understand.
Download
Into every life a little podcast must fall - for certain definitions of little. Nintendo Free Radio is back with a brisk jaunt through the world of games, starting New Business with Donald's first non-douche early impressions of Tales of Xillia. After that, come along to the Pokemon Bank and marvel at the service's eerie similarities to (insert crap bank of choice here) before skating away at extreme speeds in OlliOlli. Austen keeps the handheld train rolling with Everyday Shooter, then transitions into Vita puzzler Surge Deluxe and cross-platform psychoanalysis program Doki Doki Universe, before taking aim at villianry in episode 2 of Telltale's Wolf Among Us. Stephen, not to be outdone, takes another crack at Walking Dead and finds the rarest specimen of all: A platform where Walking Dead exists WITHOUT game-breaking bugs.

We always think Whatcha' Watchin is going to be short, then the recording happens. Donald has brief impressions on perennial NFR favourite Steins;Gate, Austen follows up on Clannad with the postscript Clannad:Love Story and finds out that Justice League: War is good for absolutely nothing before finding something decent to watch in Kokoro Connect. Speaking of decency, Stephen continues to make the tragic mistake of leaving his selections up to the horndog Netflix algorithim, as his contribution is the "life" laden Sekirei.

We swear, this time around the Feature Discussion was going to blow your mind, make you change your pants and lead to Mother 3 on Virtual Console. Unfortunately, Iwata chose to cash in the Please Understand contract right after recording, so the crew gathered immediately following the February 13 Nintendo Direct for a round of off-the-cuff impressions. Find out how much Donald spent that day (a lot), if Stephen's on the X bandwagon (maybe?) and if Nintendo going free-to-play is sinking to new depths. Finally, the Mushrooms have a farewell to podcasts, a call to action, and a tribute to... high speed network cable. Yeah, it's been that kind of week.

Next time 'round we're going to be emptying out the listener mailbag, so be sure to get your questions in to nintendofreeradio@gmail.com - or leave them below. Until next time, consider this... can love bloom on a baseball diamond?

This podcast was edited by Donald Theriault. All music is used under fair use protection. Mrgrgr.

129

Reader Reviews / Pokemon Bank/Transporter review

« on: February 17, 2014, 09:47:58 PM »

Much like a Surfing Rhydon, Nintendo's first cloud service does the job but could be so much more useful.

After multiple delays, largely centered around the fact that the original version of the app was so server-intensive that it helped take the entire eShop offline for a few days, Pokemon Bank has finally arrived to give Western players the opportunity to like Mudkips once again. Unfortunately, the delay did not allow for some serious user interface errors to be corrected, especially when it comes time to bring in your old friends.

Upon first boot, you are greeted by the server admin named Bridgette, who gives a quick introduction to the service and brings you to a menu while reminding you that yes, in 30 days you have to start paying for this. Until then, you can download the separate PokeTransporter app for moving your Pokemon from the DS games so long as they have “Black” or “White” in the title, or start reading the save file of the card in the slot or download and strip-mining it for all it's worth.

Bank does provide little bonuses for your use of the service – a bonus Pokemon valid through the end of September 2014 of high rarity, and a mild form of interest where you earn one of two varieties of points. You can earn PokeMiles, which can be used in the main X and Y games or on the Pokemon Global Link to buy items, or Battle Points, which unlock rare items and moves in the post-game. Sadly, the interest rate on the former is far higher, and you only get large quantities of either from storing a lot of Pokemon. The Bank tracks everything via Nintendo Network ID, so you can use multiple games on the same ID to add to your balance and even use it as an option to restart the game if you want to play through the story again.

The application does have a great deal of user interface errors to contend with, and no option to manage it except from the 3DS itself. Since the Bank's boxes – all 101 of them – are on the top screen, you can't use the stylus to choose the selection modes as can be done in the games. Instead, this option is placed on Start and Select, which is both redundant and a marked change from what veteran players are used to. The Transporter app is even more limited, as for some reason it's a separate app that requires switching games on the 3DS home screen if you're among the majority who went retail. And it can only pull from Box 1 of the Black/White game you have inserted, which makes moving large groups of Pokemon an incredibly time consuming and frustrating procedure. Moving a large quantity of Pokemon involves the following steps:

• Place all the Pokemon into Box 1 in a Black/White game
• Insert Black/White game into the system
• Run PokeTransporter app, which dumps the Pokemon into a “Transport Box” (Box 101) in Bank
• Insert X/Y card (if applicable) and run Bank
• Move Pokemon from the Transport Box into a Bank Box or your game
• Repeat 1-5 until all Pokemon are moved or you're ready to say “screw it” to the entire process

One of the major promises of the process was that it would weed out illegitimate Pokemon from the service and strand them in old games where they can do less damage. In testing, although it caught the clearly illegitimate Pokemon and a Pokemon from an unreleased event, it allowed almost a full box of Pokemon modified to have “legal” stats through. As well, there have been reports of rarer event Pokemon from older games being blocked, though it appears that the server is being updated to allow them as they are reported.

For a first attempt at a cloud service, Pokemon Bank can be usable once you're used to its many quirks. And since the other major promise is that the service will be used for future generations of Pokemon, fans will have to get used to it. Hopefully, there will be some major usability improvements going into future games, as 1.0 almost makes you long for the days of Pokemon Store-exclusive storage and moving 6 Pokemon per cart per day. Almost.

4.5

Pros:
+Majorly enhances the replay value of Pokemon X and Y
+Finally, Pokemon transfer that doesn't involve a lame minigame or time restrictions

Cons
-No support for direct transport from Pokemon Platinum and other inferior 4^th generation Pokemon games
-PokeTransporter limitations seem designed to make people with physical versions of X and Y miserable
-Not yet revealed how long you have to clear out if you don't pay the yearly fee

130

Nintendo Gaming / Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate - 3DS - "early" 2015

« on: January 26, 2014, 10:38:02 AM »

NO U

Localized version of 4G, which comes out this fall in Japan because Capcom has to make more mobile games.

131

Nintendo Gaming / NOA climbs back to the top of the yarnball: Now selling extended Gamepad battery

« on: December 20, 2013, 11:41:35 PM »

$32 US for roughly 8 hours of battery life depending on your settings. Perfect for those long sessions of caterwauling in 3D World.

132

General Chat / Nintendo Free Radio 27: Imagine Greatness

« on: November 21, 2013, 09:49:46 PM »

Despite the best efforts of Microsoft and prominent ISP *redacted*, it's obsessive PS4 detail time!

U R NOT (red)E for this much Playstation discussion in this episode of Nintendo Free Radio! But first, New Business goes heavy casual as Stephen tackles the combination of Nintendo HD upgrades, Wii Sports Club and Wii Fit U for the low, low cost of NOTHING. Donald keeps the casual theme going with his own free-but-for-his-time game in Doberman of Duty (note; we're retiring the dog puns) and reps the platforming with Sonic Lost World. Austen finishes out the PS3 with the last great platformer Ratchet and Clank: Into the Nexus, and a cavalcade of brief mentions with a little heavy detail on Batman: Arkham Origins.

After the (un)wanted return of Now Posted... we scrapped Whatcha Watchin' because Austen and Stephen spent most of their time watching firmware updates and downloads on their brand new PS4s. Everything from the purchase experience, including Austen breaking the speed of light itself, to the UI and launch lineup is covered in minute detail (while Donald sits back with a mai tai and curses the editing).

There was still time left for the Mushrooms, but there's a heavy poison theme as bricked PS4s, medical drama, the ability of *redacted* to hook up quality internet and the Jacksonville Jaguars bring a dark cloud to the proceedings. You won't believe who has the only 1up, nor what it goes to, but you'll also understand why the editor went off his meds during the editing.

On November 23, we're doing it live (for the kids) but not without your help! Nintendo Free Radio has been asked to contribute to a 3DS report card, but you have to earn it - so get over to the page at NintendoWorldReport and boost the total so we can go live on November 23rd! Also, next time around, it's Virtual Insanity as they're talking Earthbound - so send your thoughts in before Thanksgiving!

This podcast was edited by Donald Theriault. All music is used for discussion purposes under fair use. *redacted*, once someone finds a new job, you have my permission to die.

Time: 3'13"53
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133

General Chat / Nintendo Free Radio 26: He Stole My Humpty

« on: November 05, 2013, 11:59:28 PM »

Recovered from 25 yet? Too bad, here comes another one.

Direct Link

In the last episode of Nintendo Free Radio before the next-gen stragglers drag their systems smoking to the finish line, we offer warnings and advice for the future. A largely handheld-focused New Business is led off by the vanguard of the handheld master race, as Donald opens with the explorative platforming of Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate. Beware of homicidal renegades and - if you're like Austen and playing the Vita version, game-ending bugs. Donald follows up with the cathartic handheld murder simulator, Hotline Miami (PS Vita version), which may help him clean his fridge for Soul Sacrifice in a most unusual fashion. We hope you don't have any objections to the brief mention of Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney: Duel Destinies, since it came out a short time before recording. Stephen picks up Donald's Poke-torch as the best way to handle demonic swords in Pokemon Y is discussed, before Austen surprises everyone with a look at Donkey Kong Country Returns (IN 3D~). Finally, Austen brings it home with future Vita (and some mobile phone platform nobody cares about) adventure game, The Wolf Among Us. Is there a chance Telltale could get Austen's GOTY 2 years in a row?

Whatcha Watchin... how would we describe that? Well, let's just hit the content: Stephen has more food reality with The Next Great Baker and oddball sci-fi with Iron Sky, Austen has Sakura Wars: The Movie and Last Exile: Fam The Silver Wing, and Donald's watched more Looney Tunes than should be allowed by law.

There's two parts to the Feature this week, as our first frequent contributer Pete asks about who should go indie, and we debate briefly just what the hell that means. In part 2, we pull SquareEnix out of the Mushrooms with a look at their Final Fantasy Committee, whether the series needs saving, and what they can do to try and stop bleeding money. Think we're crazy? Email us and tell us! (nintendofreeradio@gmail.com) Finally, it's another round of Mushrooms with a construction update, laments over game delays... and an unexpected guest appearance that will blow your mind.

The next time we talk, the PS4 will be out, and there might be some actual journalism on that episode. We know, we're shocked too. Also, it's coming up on that magical time of year when Nintendo World Report does it live for Child's Play, and we are going to be involved... so once the page goes up, get to donating. It's for the kids, y'see.

This podcast was edited by Donald Theriault. All music and clips are used for discussion and clarification purposes under Fair Use provision. The cold lasted over a week.

134

Nintendo Gaming / Nintendo kills Spotpass for Swapnote. Alt: This is why we can't have nice things

« on: October 31, 2013, 10:52:45 PM »

Thank you for your support.

Nintendo has learned that some consumers, including minors, have been exchanging their friend codes on Internet bulletin boards and then using Swapnote (known as Nintendo Letter Box in other regions) to exchange offensive material. Nintendo has been investigating ways of preventing this and determined it is best to stop the SpotPass feature of Swapnote because it allows direct exchange of photos and was actively misused.

Nintendo always wants to provide a positive experience for all consumers and limit the risk of any inappropriate activity or misuse of a service. We feel it is important on this occasion to take the action.

We are very sorry for any inconvenience to the many consumers who have been using this service responsibly; however this decision was made considering the point that many minors also use this feature of Swapnote. Thank you for your understanding.

Nintendo will continue to work to ensure more consumers are aware of our Parental Control features, which allow parents to manage their children's experience on our systems. For more information, please visit here or select the Internet browser button below:

http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/info/en_na/parents.jsp

• Service stop date: Thursday, Oct. 31, 2013, 7 p.m. PT
• Service being stopped: Nintendo 3DS software Swapnote - Sending and receiving notes using SpotPass
• Affected regions: All regions where the service was offered
• Special Notes services are also stopped

- Nintendo
(clickable link for 3DS browser access to above)

Thanks, Internet.

We probably could have seen this coming as soon as, well, PictoChat was invented. Adding online play meant that yes, sexting was going to be in play. I was a pretty frequent user of the service if only as a main form of communication for the StreetPass group I'm with (hi Halipass followers) and this really blows.

135

General Chat / Nintendo Free Radio 24: A Wonderful 190

« on: September 29, 2013, 08:38:53 PM »

Including the best possible treatment of KIRBY'S EPIC YARN
Download

Not even Reggie's body is ready for the amount of game discussion on this week's show. New Business opens with Stephen's extended, indepth impressions of the biggest game to come out the week of September 17... The Wonderful 101. Austen loves him some Puppeteer and Killzone Mercenary, but if you're looking for crime from him, how about a little GATV available in Saints Row 4? Donald brings the representation from the handheld side with the indie Vita (and PS3, but we don't talk about that) RPG Dragon Fantasy Book II and wraps back around to an early 3DS contender for Game of the Year, Fire Emblem Awakening.

In Whatcha Watchin, the updates continue as Stephen finishes off MasterChef, and Austen delivers on a promise from last episode with The Legend of Korra while checking on a recent Ghibli import, From Up On Poppy Hill. Donald goes to the extremes of anime with the mysterious Paranoia Agent and the... how does one describe Gurren Lagann?

The Feature discussion is a series of topics featuring one theme: Chaos in the land of the rising sun. Subjects touched on include the passing of Hiroshi Yamauchi, the Sony announcements including Vita TV and Vita2000, Sega x Atlus and, uh, Tetris and Puyo Puyo being a good combo? The Mushrooms bring it home with our general love/hate relationship with SquareEnix and social interaction in general - and stay tuned after the outro for quick Steam Controller impressions.

Until next time... UNITE UP!!

This podcast was edited by Donald Theriault. All music and clips used under fair use and for discussion purposes only. Female vocals provided by Jessica (Stephen's wife).

136

General Chat / Nintendo Free Radio 23: The 0.1 Percent

« on: September 15, 2013, 08:47:34 PM »

STILL not as delayed as Rayman Legends was!
Download
There are three metaphysical certainties in gaming: Nintendo is doomed, a certain open-world game will get 10s undeservedly and... NFR will eventually release. This time around in New Business, Stephen doubles back to current AGOTY (Austen Game of the Year) Tomb Raider, and may not be as generous in his ranking of the game at the end of the year. Austen tries his hand at solo co-op in Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons before turning his attention to a couple of under-the-radar platformers, Castle of Illusion HD (PS3 version) and Rayman Legends (Vita). Donald can indeed dig it sucka, as he proves with the 3DS's newest indie megahit SteamWorld Dig, but saves his effusive praise for a somewhat larger purchase... and apparently triggered Sony to go completely insane the night after the recording. (We'll talk about those announcements on the next show. Also, you're welcome.)

Now Posted has updates on the unnecessary search for forum replacements, followed by the shortest Whatcha Watchin' in quite a while. Stephen revisits the dead-before-its-time Alphas, Donald continues the theme of underground hits with Gurren Lagann, and Austen sticks around for the final act of Inuyasha. Yeah, that's it.

Since Nintendo decided to announce a bunch of stuff right after 22 recorded, we had to cover it - and unlike other outlets, we don't bury the lede. The Feature discussion covers the WiiU price drop in somewhat heavy detail, with a side of 2DS and some PS4/Xbone chasers. Finally, the Mushrooms have the very rare Double Mushroom, the trouble with Kickstarters and A NEW CAR~!

Have any mail for us, hate or otherwise? Send it to nintendofreeradio@gmail.com - and until next time, BUY RETRO/GRADE. We need to cure some depression.

This podcast was edited by Donald Theriault and Austen Parkin. All music is used under fair use protection. Row row fight the power.

137

General Chat / Nintendo Free Radio 22: Extra-Large Double Double

« on: September 02, 2013, 01:42:34 PM »

We're playing Nintendo games and 4chan hates us, woo-hoo!
Download: Show time 2'39"55
Round out your Labor Day long weekend with the results of our own labor, as Nintendo Free Radio 22 is on the air! New Business opens with largely Stephen-ran but group-aided impressions of Pikmin 3, as you find out who is too stupid and/or lazy to use Wii controls (hint: today's loser is editing it). Donald dipped his toes into the Wonderful 101 demo, but saved most of his love for WayForward's love letter to our collective childhoods, Ducktales Remastered, Austen is glad that a demo actually made him buy Mario and Luigi Dream Team, but finds The Bureau: XCOM Declassified perhaps a little too nutty for its own good.

Mind the mess in Now Posted as we kiss a longtime piece of flamebait goodbye, then settle down for another highly animated Whatcha Watchin'. And we mean highly animated: Stephen has Wild Kratts and enough Funimation anime to choke a horse - Ouran High School Host Club, Fairy Tail, Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood, Baka and Test and Soul Eater. Not to be undone, Austen brings his own wacky brand of anime with the incredibly psychotic Penguindrum and gets ultra-violent with Black Lagoon, while Donald attempts to ground things in reality with Wargames: WCW's Most Dangerous Matches (you call THAT reality? - Ed) and Breaking Bad. Yes, Breaking Bad.

Certain incidents have caused us to evaluate the nature of the internet and the people who post on it, mostly the racists, misogynists and Anonymous in a Feature with the working title "The Internet Is For Jerks" (note: present company excluded in all examples). Finally, the Mushrooms feature much-needed takedowns of plagiarists, car salesman and the ridiculous demo limits on the eShops.

Have any rebuttals for our ways of fixing the conversation on the internet? Have we missed a game that we should talk about? No matter what, send your feedback to nintendofreeradio@gmail.com or post it below.

This podcast was edited by Donald Theriault. Music and trailers used under Fair Use protection. Please ignore this subliminalDRINKPEPSI message.

138

General Chat / Nintendo Free Radio 21: Exciting Jazz Hands

« on: August 18, 2013, 12:01:57 AM »

Already proven wrong about Layton x Wright, what else will be awesome in 2013?
Download
Despite the games only coming out AFTER recording, NFR has managed another full round of discussion. This time in New Business, Donald takes an appetizer in Attack of the Friday Monsters before digging into the full meal deal of RPGs in Shin Megami Tensei IV. Austen rolled through Borderlands 2 quickly enough that he took a +1 to DLC with  Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon's Keep, while Stephen inflicts whiplash on his co-hosts with Cut the Rope on the Leap Motion and a PC-bundled Shark Dash and the incredibly hardcore Anno 2070.

After a fabulous Now Posted segment, Whatcha Watchin' starts with a round of everything made up and irrelevant points as Donald celebrates the return of Whose Line Is It Anyway?. Austen brings some sci-fi goodness with a full recap of Warehouse 13 before a rash of superheroism with Justice League's "Flashpoint Paradox". Stephen keeps the superheroing alive with Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes, Superman Apocalypse and Planet Hulk, with a side of prison comedy with Netflix's original Orange Is The New Black and sci-fi (Generator Rex).

We asked - repeatedly - and you came through with a Feature Discussion centered around a preview of the fall, including our Games We're Most Excited For - and some of the answers are already outdated, while others will probably stun you. The Mushrooms put a bow on things with appreciation of well-used system features and... fruit, but also contains a fierce rebuke of recent gaming news.

This podcast was edited by Donald Theriault, Austen Parkin and Stephen Shook. All music is used under Fair Use provisions. For the love of Goddish, don't sue us.

139

General Chat / Nintendo Free Radio E3 2013 Main Event

« on: June 19, 2013, 11:12:09 PM »

Is there any hope left for the gaming industry? Only the #PS4NoDRM knows.
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When we last left our intrepid heroes, Donald was ready to ragequit the entire industry... could Nintendo or Sony save the day? After a recap of post-E3 Microsoft hilarity (most of which is now  invalid thanks to 8:1 preorder ratios and the United States armed forces), the crew dives into the Sony press event. Needless to say, one five minute period saved everything, but did another five minute period cost Sony some PS4 controller sales? And how many press conferences contain Tesla coil shotguns AND Octodad?

Before moving onto Nintendo, you'll hear from Nintendo World Report community manager JP Corboran on his E3 thoughts. Much money will be spent, and many copies of FIFA will be purchased. Also, if you don't like Mario 3D World, you're a communist and a fascist.

Finally, it comes to Nintendo, in a segment plagued with as many technical issues as the Nintendo Direct itself was. Megatons are discussed, tears are shed over Retro's choice to take another run at Donkey Kong instead of lowering themselves to Metroid (That's enough - Ed) and everyone loses their mind over X, except Stephen who, you can probably tell, was crazy by this section anyway. Nintendo couldn't win E3, but did they at least try for the silver?

The team will reconvene in a few days to get over their own E3 hangovers, and are looking forward to your comments - send them by email to nintendofreeradio@gmail.com or leave them here. Until next time, #DealWithIt.

This episode was edited by Austen Parken, Stephen Shook and Donald Theriault. All music contained in this episode is used in accordance with fair use provisions.

140

General Chat / Nintendo Free Radio Episode 17: Jumping the Cyber Shark and Wotnot

« on: May 31, 2013, 09:31:13 PM »

 We Hope to Make You Understand the Value of Those Sharks. Please Understand.

Download

Once again, it's 80s Night here at Nintendo Free Radio (settle in, folks...we're old. We're contractually obligated to do this every once in a while), and we're back to bring you the latest outdated gaming coverage in the industry.  Donald kicks off New Business with Atlus' latest foray into Digital Devil madness with Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner: Soul Hackers, a 3DS port of an obscure Sega Saturn game...AND IT'S OUT RIGHT NOW!  After conquering Mario's latest 3D Land, the group briefly discusses their impressions of Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon. (Let us pause for a moment of silence in honor of the Twinkies analogy Hostess' demise now denies us.) Afterwards, reinforcements have arrived, as Stephen fires up the Ion Canon and spins-up an old 1st person shooter classic (?):  Command & Conquer: Renegade. Meanwhile, Austen readies his laser bow and 20-sided die for a neon-lit journey through Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon. Does it have The Touch, or would you Dare to Be Stupid for playing it? Finally, Austen asks "What DO you do with a Druken Whaler?" with his Dishonored replay (+ Knife of Dunwall DLC), with perhaps a Kameo from his Xbox 360 as well.

After the latest sojourn into the 7th & 8th Circles of the NWR Forums with Now Posted, Whatcha Watchin' returns with a look at Donald's financial problems in Trading Places. Afterwards, Stephen decides to also kick-it old school with Naked Gun 33 1/3, as well as a round of the best game show Austen's never heard of: Let's Ask America. Finally, Austen closes the feature out with a look at Siffy's (SyFy to those of you who don't care about spelling) new Science Fiction drama Defiance.  After beholding the horror that is Teen Titans Go, we then initiate the Ghost Protocol (Mission Impossible 4).

Once again, the Feature Discussion doesn't have a full subject, but the Lightning Round seemed to get a charge out of you last time, so we figured we'd Electrify your Boogaloo. Topics for discussion include the Fate of E3, the Fall of LucasArts, our New Japanese Overlord, and hilariously inaccurate (in retrospect) predictions for the Microsoft Xbox One Unveiling 2 weeks ago. As always, the show wraps-up with The Mushrooms, featuring Canada's Public Enemy #1; Multiplayer Woes; and A Crack in the Tradition of Terrible Video Game Movies.

We'd love to hear some feedback (even if you apparently don't), so don't be afraid to send us an email at nintendofreeradio@gmail.com or leave a comment on the Talkback!

This podcast was edited by Donald Theriault. All music use is covered under Fair Use provisions. Quality not guaranteed: I have only done this once before. - D

141

NWR Forums Discord / Apple thread

« on: April 15, 2013, 09:42:31 PM »

vs.



Go.

142

General Chat / Nintendo Free Radio 14: Whatever Floats Your Hubba Tester

« on: April 07, 2013, 01:49:45 AM »

Donald hates Majora, Stephen hates editing, Austen hates pronouncing "Lara", and we all hate YOU*.
Download

Sit right back as we take you on a three hour tour through the world of video games and other foo-fa-rah. Stephen takes the lead on New Business as the whole group dove into Fire Emblem: Awakening to certain extents (mostly to get the DLC) and they talk about the good, bad and Lunatic+ of the unexpectedly hot-selling strategy RPG. After that, Stephen and Austen provide updates on their Ni no Kuni experience with that darn Mr. Drippy. Donald follows up with a very controversial "trip down the hill of quality" starting with Persona 4 (PS2 version), following up with Final Fantasy VIII (PS1 classic) and finishing with... MAJORA'S MASK? After resisting the urge to strangle his co-host, Austen discusses the two major early March releases - the colon-cancer causing Castlevania: Lords of Shadow: Mirror of Fate and the Lara (or Laura) protection game Tomb Raider.

After a rambunctious Now Posted segment, the TV talk goes intergalactic with Stephen's update on Star Trek, ending Next Generation, starting the original series and hitting... the ANIMATED series? Donald brings back the mid-90s animation with The Critic, and Austen has the triple header of Wreck-It Ralph, Reboot and Tiger and Bunny.

The Feature promises to be controversial as at least two of the hosts take aim at annoying fanbases (guess who plays Switzerland and win the NFR No-Prize). What makes you want to slap members of a fanbase? Find out that, as well as the franchise that killed Sega, and if you want to take umbrage with any of the comments, send an email to nintendofreeradio@gmail.com and we'll address them on a future show. Finally, the Mushrooms take aim at gaming media both good and bad, as well as a little medical drama.

This podcast was edited by Stephen Shook. All music used in this episode is under Fair Use protection.

*some exclusions may apply**

**Well I don't hate you

143

Nintendo Gaming / The 2013 3DS presents JRPG beastmode

« on: April 04, 2013, 10:57:24 PM »

So I don't know if anyone realized this, but the 3DS has suddenly become a powerhouse for JRPGs and their ilk in the west (or East, for our Aussie friends). Here's what we know so far... and a few possibilities.

Released
Fire Emblem: Awakening - Nintendo/Intelligent Systems

NA: Out
PAL: April 19
The game whose shortage caused many people to break their eShop retail celibacy vows... and it's still getting DLC support, in case you've beaten it already. Take heart Europe, you're getting an XL bundle instead of a taco version. Chrom x Female Avatar forever.

Etrian Odyssey IV - Atlus

NA: Out
PAL: Summer 2013. Published by NIS America because of reasons.
Atlus's fantasy dungeon crawler has a lot of things - map making, evil FOEs, and enough character customization to choke a horse. And as a special bonus, it comes with a complimentary visit from the To Catch a Predator guy. (Seriously, what is *with* the female character models in this game?)

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate - Capcom

NA/PAL: Out
Japan's leading non-mecha cultural phenomenon hits a Nintendo portable for the first time, and you know it's doing well when Shibata has to apologize for shortages in Europe. Now, if only the online wasn't a pain in the tush to set up...

And then there's the future.

Soul Hackers - Atlus

NA: April 16
PAL: lol
For those of you who prefer your dungeon crawlers with less loli and more demon negotiation, Atlus has your back with the second longest game name on the system behind Devil Survivor Overclocked. Kimberly did a way better job of summing this game up, so go read it.

Shin Megami Tensei IV - Atlus

NA: July 16? (Source)
EU: lol
The series what brought you Persona has its first fully recognized sequel in a decade, and North America's getting it two months after Japan? Who cares, right? Well, it's the #1 bestseller on Amazon (Canada) for video games right now. Not bad for a premium priced 3DS game.

Project X Zone - Namco

NA: June 25
EU: Summer 2013
How this massively-multiplayer crossover between Namco/Bandai, Capcom and Sega got localized is a miracle on the order of Tatsunoko v. Capcom. But it's the only way you're going to play with Valkyria Chronicles 3 characters in English. Also, Monolith was involved. And I mean the good (Xenoblade) Monolith. Do I have your attention yet?

Rune Factory IV - XSEED/Marvelous

NA: Summer 2013
EU: No clue
For the Harvest Moon fans in the crowd, it's a futuristic Harvest Moon with extended dating, friends with benefits, and chatting with dragons. If you believe Wikipedia, they also drew inspiration from Pikmin.

Mario and Luigi: Dream Team - Nintendo/AlphaDream

NA: Summer 2013
EU: Same
Ladies and gentlemen, the year of Weegee continues. Not much is known about the game - just what Iwata revealed back in the February Nintendo Direct - but if we're going into Luigi's dreams, this may be the most messed Nintendo RPG since Earthbound.

Pokemon X/Y - Nintendo/Pokemon Company Int'l

NA: October 2013
EU: Same
AKA "the game that will save Satoru Iwata's job when it makes half a billion in its opening weekend".

And then there's the potential for Bravely Default (Siliconera and others saying it was done at GDC, but who knows what's happening with SquareEnix now), Fantasy Life (appears on the infamous Nintendo of Spain software release slide and some trademarks, but Level 5 are known trolls), and even an outside shot of Dragon Quest VII coming over.

This is my money. Shut up and take it.

144

Nintendo Gaming / Pokemon Rumble U to have NFC functionality

« on: March 13, 2013, 08:50:12 AM »

200 yen pieces, so it's down to a high-end PC instead of a new car to catch 'em all (appropriate for a download game). However, there will be three special figures made available:


Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3

145

Nintendo Gaming / 3rd Party 3DS Nintendo Direct 2000 JST/6am EST 21 February

« on: February 20, 2013, 10:16:27 PM »

So given that it's Japan only and 3rd party, any last minute predictions?


I'll go with:
- Confirmation of SMTIV release date
- Bravely Default 2 announcement
- Something Love Plus
- "And one more thing..." Persona 5

146

General Chat / Nintendo Free Radio Episode 12: Summon Your Short Cat

« on: February 10, 2013, 06:07:06 PM »

For an extra $0.00 per episode, you too can have a podcast under 2 hours long (some exclusions may apply)
Download
*Scene: A plain white room. Satoru Iwata enters*

Good evening, and welcome to this Chotto Nintendo Free Radio. This week, we would like to begin by apologizing for the absurd length of the previous episode, and can assure you that steps have been taken to ensure this never occurs again. Please look forward to it.

*bows*

In the New Business, games such as Rhythm Thief and the Emperor's Treasure, Crimson Shroud, MechWarrior Online, The Walking Dead, dmc and Zone of the Enders HD will be discussed. In addition, there will be discussion of the demos available on various eShops for Fire Emblem: Awakening and Sly Cooper: Thieves In Time.

The Whatcha Watchin' will feature such shows as Serial Experiments Lain, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Level E and Persona 4: The Animation. Also, there is a discussion of Canada's national winter sport: ice hockey.

The feature discussion in this episode is the recent Nintendo Direct I hosted. Among the points of discussion are the recent announcements for the WiiU Virtual Console, the remake of Wind Waker, and the trailer for our new game from Monolith Software.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=KHYtvOP8AMY

*After the trailer, cut to Iwata holding a mushroom... and a grapefruit.*

Finally, the Mushrooms will discuss issues with customer service both good and bad, as well as our recent Pokemon Direct. We hope you enjoy the show and look forward to the end of the rhythm game combo very soon.

147

General Chat / Nintendo Free Radio Episode 8: Everybunny Votes

« on: November 13, 2012, 07:25:28 PM »

The Number 9 Portal has been opened. Forty five minutes until the Wii closes.

Direct download

Wait, wait, don't tell me - Stephen, Donald and Austen have returned with another round of gaming misadventure. Donald leads off New Business with an appropriately quick round of the PSP Warioware-style RPG Half-Minute Hero, in which the Time Goddess is a firm believer in the power of capitalism. His main event, however, is his 2012 Most Anticipated Game - Zero Escape: Virtue's Last Reward. Donald and Austen tag-team the two platforms of this visual novel/adventure game while trying to avoid kicking dogs and harebrained puns. Austen follows up with a Vita triple play: the indie puzzle platformer with unique artstyle (tm Player One Podcast) Dokuro and the Assassin's Creed game you're not hearing about, Assassin's Creed Liberation. He completes the set with the rhythm game/RPG hybrid Orgarhythm, where you fight gods with the power... of DANCE! Stephen rounds out the games with the PC/PS3 tower defense game Dungeon Defenders, which has some trouble with teaching you how to build towers (but is free on PS+ as of post time), and a comparison of the console and handheld versions of Skylanders: Giants. Is the Activison money-printing machine as strong as ever?

(If you're confused about the gameplay in Orgarhythm and Dokuro, we recommend these gameplay videos: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EPtiUbpQr00 for Orgarhythm, and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLiGj6TS84A for Dokuro)

After a peek into the psyche of the NWR forums with Now Posted, Whatcha Been Watching covers Stephen's continuing Deep Space Nine exploits and the Alvin and the Chipmunks Halloween special, Donald goes for the crab juice in The City of New York v. Homer Simpson (instantly putting him over certain GameTrailers hosts), and Austen picks and rolls through TMNT 2012, various Nickelodeon game shows and the start of the NBA season.

With only a few days left before November 18, the panel decides to look back at the Wii era (error?) in the feature discussion. Wanting to avoid a five-hour podcast, the focus is on the games - including more Sonic and the Secret Rings discussion than any podcast ever - and what the legacy of the Wii could mean for the WiiU. As usual, the show ends with some healthy Mushrooms, including another call for decorum in online gaming, a much-needed retirement, and the ruining of a host's New Year's Day plans.

By the time you hear this, the NWR Live Telethon For Child's Play will have come and gone - and you witnessed the Super Smash Brothers of podcasting. Lee! Shoemaker! 8-4! Player One! Red Velvet! And Taking it OVER $6000! (For the kids.) But we couldn't have done it without your help, thank you!  If you haven't donated or missed the telethon you can still donate and listen to segments of the show as they become available. (http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/sitenews/32097) Don't forget to send us questions for listener mail at nintendofreeradio@gmail.com, which we will answer on future episodes of the show!

This podcast was edited by Stephen Shook. All music appears in this podcast under fair use protection.

Half Minute Hero 0:50
Virtue's Last Reward 7:20
Brief Mentions 20:00
Dokuro 21:50
Assassin's Creed Liberation 27:05
Orgarhythm 36:30
Dungeon Defenders 41:35
Skylanders Giants 47:40
End New Business 1:00:45

148

Nintendo Gaming / Popular JRPG with 7 in the title being remade for 3DS? (Dragon Quest)

« on: October 30, 2012, 09:45:15 AM »

Apparent leak in this week's Famitsu.

Legit-looking scan

Releasing in February. All 3DS production in Q1 2013 being diverted to Japan.

149

Nintendo Gaming / Standalone WiiU Gamepad Price/Release Date Guessing Game

« on: September 16, 2012, 04:02:07 PM »

Similar to the WiiU Price and Release Date Guess Thread (here) but for standalone WiiU pads as per BlackNMild's suggestion here.

Price is Right rules apply, closest guess on both price and date without going over wins the Official NWR Forum No-Prize (tm) and a podcast shoutout.

My guess is November 17, 2013 and $99.99, to coincide with Nintendo's first game that necessitates it.

150

General Chat / Nintendo Free Radio Episode 4.5: Not Quite A Bullet Train

« on: September 15, 2012, 10:27:56 AM »

Team NFR reacts to the WiiU launch revelations!

When your last episode gets steamrolled by an oncoming train of WiiU hype, there's only one thing to do - record a quickie episode in reaction. How do Austen, Stephen and Donald feel about the launch details? Why did someone have to revoke a Poison Mushroom this week, and why is Kamiya getting death threats? (Spoilers: The Internet.) Will any of the hosts care about TVii, Skylanders or CoDBlops? And who will end up having to pay $400 for a Premium system? All this and some other things in our shortest episode ever. Don't get used to it.

Time: 1'08"34
Downloads: mp3 | AAC