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[Just in case the Wii version left you wanting more, here's Boogie for DS. And it's still in 3D. Update: Now with video trailer!]

26

TalkBack / EA Announces Boogie for DS

« on: September 05, 2007, 04:02:48 AM »

Just in case the Wii version left you wanting more, here's Boogie for DS. And it's still in 3D.  Update: Now with video trailer!
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14347

 EA'S BOOGIE SHAKES ITS WAY ONTO THE NINTENDO DS AND PLAYSTATION 2 THIS HOLIDAY SEASON    

Boogie on Nintendo DS Offers Players New Features Including 3D Gameplay    

Chertsey, UK – September 5, 2007 – Shake it. Sing it. Create it. Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced today that Boogie™, which shipped for the Wii™ in August, is taking its dancing act on the road with a unique Nintendo DS™ version that features the first 3D gameplay on the handheld system. All the new modes in the game can be experienced in full 3D using special glasses packed in to the retail box. Boogie is also shipping on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and brings both singing and dancing gameplay to one of the world’s most prevalent hardware systems. Both titles will ship to retail stores this holiday 2007    

Boogie on Nintendo DS introduces new gameplay modes and mini-games not found in the Wii version for easy gaming on the go. The game’s unique modes include DS Download Play and Multi-Card Play, three main dancing gamplay modes including Copycat, Freestyle and Choreography as well as more than 10 mini-games. Players can also dive into the career mode for a deeper experience as they embark on a quest to become the Boogie Master.    

Boogie on the PlayStation®2 showcases the game’s signature dancing and singing gameplay. Players can sing along to their favorite tunes or dance to the latest hit songs as well as catch their best dance moves, record their own voice and make music videos with the music video creator.    

Boogie features new versions of tracks made popular by hit bands such as The Jackson 5, Kool & The Gang, Black Eyed Peas and Britney Spears. An all-new intellectual property developed at EA Montreal, Boogie is the perfect party game for gamers of all ages. For more information on the game, please visit the website at http://www.boogie.electronicarts.co.uk    

[Apparently, no other console in history has done the same after just nine months on sale.]

27

TalkBack / Wii Sales Reach One Million in the UK

« on: August 29, 2007, 11:40:19 PM »

Apparently, no other console in history has done the same after just nine months on sale.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14311

 Nintendo's Wii Sells Over One Million Units In Just Nine Months To Become Fastest Ever Selling Home Console In UK History    

Landmark home console sales figure reached to further highlight Nintendo's resurgence in the UK video games market    

  30th August 2007 – Figures released today courtesy of the UK’s leading independent music, video and software performance and sales tracking company, Chart Track, show Nintendo’s home console ‘Wii’ is now being enjoyed by over one million people in the UK, becoming the fastest ever selling home console in UK videogame history to reach this milestone. Wii has passed the one million sales figure in just 38 weeks, some 11 weeks faster than the Playstation 2 which took 50 weeks to pass the million selling milestone and 22 weeks faster than Xbox 360 which took 60 weeks to reach one million UK sales.*    

Just like Nintendo DS, Wii has been selling irrespective of the traditional video game industry’s seasonality. As the customer bases for Nintendo DS and Wii expand, it is not only traditional gamers but also new and expanded audiences who do not care about seasonality or launch dates of new games who are buying DS and Wii. This unprecedented trend has been created by the disruptive and revolutionary nature of Nintendo DS and Wii. In addition, the range of software titles which are available for both systems are clearly appealing to both avid gamers and new gamers of all ages.    

Going into the crucial Christmas season, Nintendo’s momentum shows no signs of slowing down with a recent week’s UK console market shares for Wii and Nintendo DS Lite standing at 68% and 86% of the home and handheld console markets respectively – further highlighting Nintendo’s resurgence in the UK video games market.***    

Commenting on the performance of Wii in the UK, David Yarnton, General Manager, Nintendo UK said:    

"The non-stop demand for Wii even in the traditionally slow sales periods for video games in the UK is clearly behind this record breaking achievement. The performance of both systems appears to indicate that unprecedented interactive entertainment experiences, provided by a combination of the revolutionary nature of DS and Wii with the increasing number of unique software titles for the system from Nintendo and third parties, are being enjoyed by both avid and new gamers of all ages.    

With more great games such as Super Mario Galaxy, Metroid Prime 3 and Endless Ocean launching in 2007, Wii, together with Nintendo DS, will continue to be the main driving forces behind the expansion of the video game market this year."    

Nintendo’s Touch! Generations range, a selection of innovative software titles designed to appeal to people of all ages and gaming experience, even those who may have never even played before, features a raft of already hugely successful titles including Dr Kawashima’s Brain Training: How Old is Your Brain?, Big Brain Academy, 42 All-Time Classics, Nintendogs, Electroplankton, Sudoku Master, Actionloop and Tetris DS.    

Wii is available now at the estimated retail price of £179. Nintendo DS Lite is available now in black, white and pink priced at around £99. For all the latest information on Nintendo and Touch! Generation titles please visit www.touchgenerations.com

[We were allowed to play the game behind closed doors at GC and to shoot a little video too.]

28

TalkBack / IMPRESSIONS: Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games

« on: August 24, 2007, 12:14:33 PM »

We were allowed to play the game behind closed doors at GC and to shoot a little video too.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/impressionsArt.cfm?artid=14291

 Developed in collaboration with Nintendo, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games is undoubtedly the key title at Sega’s booth. Sometimes taking up more than half of the company’s floor space, the game also appears on a giant projector screen, gets played in huge competitions, and turns up in countless banner ads. These ads show a certain pair of characters standing on a red and blue background.    

Instead of fighting each other, they compete in various Olympic events. The game carries the official Beijing 2008 Olympics license, which enables authentic logos and stadiums to be included. However, this is where the realism ends.  Everything else is inspired by the bright and zany worlds of Nintendo and Sega’s most popular franchises.  The spectators constitute a giant mob from the Mushroom Kingdom, the physics behave in exaggerated ways (though still convincingly), and the screen display is almost entirely made up of primary colors. And in case you didn’t know, the playable characters aren't straight out of the real-world games, either.    

The two newest members, Yoshi and Amy, join the previous cast of Mario, Sonic, Luigi, Bowser, Knuckles, Peach, Dr. Eggman, and Tails. Each one has unique stats, measured in four areas; speed, acceleration, dash, and skill. Unsurprisingly, Sonic has maximum speed, the Mario Brothers are balanced, while Peach boasts high skill levels.  With the setup, Sega clearly intends to make the different characters excel at different events.    

This mechanic is particularly meaningful in the Circuit Mode, which was briefly explained. Up to four human players choose a character that they keep throughout multiple events, and, at the end, the overall scores are tallied and the winner is declared. The setup actually bears resemblance to the Grand Prix mode in the Mario Kart games, in which you control a character for multiple tracks, accumulating points in the process.    

Other modes were mentioned, including Single Mode, which throws you into a single event, Mission Mode, which sets you up against a series of competitors, and a more dedicated single-player mode, yet to be revealed.    

Sega demoed four of the five events present in the build and then handed over the controllers to people from the press to play the remaining one; the 110m hurdles. This event prompts you to hold down B, and then let it go when the gun goes off for a turbo start. To run, you furiously waggle the Wii remote and nunchuk up and down as quickly as possible, and to leap, you press B.  I found the controls to work rather well – especially for short term play. Not only do they provide a physical workout, they also demand that you get into a rhythm in order to get over the hurdles. Plus, it’s a blast to watch others play. For longer play sessions, the controls might get tiring, though. Hardcore gamers may also complain over a lack of depth, because - in terms of complexity and subtlety - the controls are definitely more in line with those found in Wii Sports than those in Camelot’s Mario sports titles, for example. A video of the event can be watched here:    

   

Among the other events were the 100m dash – just a simpler variation on the 110m hurdles – and the triple jump, which plays very differently. Before starting, you can opt to do a clapping motion with your Wii remote in order to get momentum with the crowd by your side. (Whether this action has any real effect was unclear.) Then you start doing the running motion until your speed suddenly locks halfway down the lane.  This gives you ample time to prepare for the hop, skip, and jump, performed by lifting the Wii remote, the nunchuk, and then the Wii remote again. Some practice is required, because if you lift the controllers too much, your jumps become too vertical. Not lifting them enough translates into a weak jump.    

The hammer throw is the only event that uses the Wii remote exclusively. Players swirl it akin to a hammer throw movement in real life. The B button throws the hammer – as long as you don’t step over the line.    

The archery has an equally intuitive control setup but feels more relaxing.  Drawing the arrow is simulated by first positioning the nunchuk in front of you and then holding both the A and B buttons. You then pull back the Wii remote, after which two cursors pop up. One of them is controlled by tilting the nunchuk, the other by aiming with the Wii remote. Preferably, they need to be aligned in the middle of the screen within thirty seconds. If that happens, you release the buttons for a perfect shot. The further the cursors are apart, the more inaccurate the shot becomes. The whole process gets even more complex once the need to compensate for the speed and direction of the wind comes into play.    

In addition to the aforementioned events, table tennis, judo, gymnastics, swimming, and other track and field based events are in development, but Sega couldn’t comment on those at all.    

The art style - reminiscent of Camelot’s games - is simple, colorful, and cartoony. Animations not only move remarkably fluidly, they also capture the personalities and movement traits of the characters very well. Everything from Mario’s flailing arms as he runs to Bowser’s extreme weight as he hits the ground after a long jump is beautifully depicted. The sheer amount of cheering spectators appearing on-screen is also noteworthy.    

I came away confident about Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games. It seems that Sega is making a visually attractive game with plenty of events that genuinely take advantage of the Wii remote in unique and varied ways.

[Say goodbye to World War II and hello to stylus-controlled modern warfare.]

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TalkBack / PREVIEWS: Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare

« on: August 24, 2007, 10:53:29 AM »

Say goodbye to World War II and hello to stylus-controlled modern warfare.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/previewArt.cfm?artid=14289

 An interview with Activision’s Vince Fennel revealed some interesting tidbits on Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare for the DS. Consisting of both multiplayer and single-player components, the game is set in modern times in various regions of the world, including the Middle East and Russia.    

As for the plot, Activision couldn’t disclose much apart from the fact that events run in parallel to those found in the console versions.  For example, when a captain and his squad are infiltrating a facility in the console version, you might provide the necessary helicopter support for that mission with your DS. The storylines intertwine.    

The single-player mode is split into eleven different missions. Viewed from a first person perspective, some take place on foot, while others are based on vehicle combat. In the latter type of missions, you’re usually operating a turret in a helicopter or gunship following a predefined path. As of yet, the mix is about 50/50, but the ground missions might end up as the most prominent part of the game.    

The build that Vince demoed features both types of gameplay. The first mission involves firing a gun from a helicopter. It very much feels like an on-rails shooter. The action is visible on the top screen while all the interface elements, including a compass, a map, and health supplies, occupy the bottom one. The L-trigger fires your weapon, while the touch screen takes care of aiming. The setup is deliberately simple:    

“We wanted to keep it accessible to everybody. That is important for the DS. A lot of the gamers on the DS aren’t really hardcore gamers, so we wanted to be able to have them play the game intuitively." (Vince Fennel)    

The first-person shooter portion that followed seems to require more attention and skill from the player. That is because N-Space, the developer, eagerly wants to find a way to convert all the actions you can perform on consoles to the DS control scheme. Their solution; to aim using the stylus like a mouse on a PC and move forward, backward, and strafe left and right with the control pad. With this control scheme, you can circle-strafe very easily. You can double-tap the touch screen to aim with the scope; crouching requires double-tapping down on the D-pad, and to sprint you double-tap up on the D-pad. The face buttons are never used. Even weapon-switching, grenade-wielding, and reloading are done via icons on the touch screen.    

In the first-person shooter mission demonstrated, the player is abruptly thrown into the heat of battle with squad members by your side. Enemies storm towards the player, but fortunately allies will do most of the work. Apparently a lot of work went into AI development:    

“We tried to simulate the AI by placing characters in different situations. The DS is very limited in this capacity, so we find ways to use shortcuts to make everything as clean and realistic as possible. Obviously we can’t have the same AI that we have on consoles, but we are trying to compensate as much as we can, and we are really happy with the results so far." (Vince Fennel)    

Your allies are very proficient at defeating your first batch of enemies. Later on, you encounter a gun embankment, which can be flanked by moving into a small alleyway. Here you can stand relatively safe with a clear view of the battlefield ahead. Unfortunately, the demo ended here.    

Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare appears to push the limits of the DS hardware. First of all, all the characters have voiceover, and lots of battle chatter can be heard during a mission. Squad members will tell you the whereabouts of nearby enemies or scream in agony when hit. Also, all the environments, geometry, and characters are fully modeled in 3d, and they blend convincingly with the giant explosions, smoke effects, dust clouds, and gunfire that fill up the screen. The game certainly looks like a promising addition to the limited library of first person shooters currently available on the DS – both from a technical standpoint and in terms of gameplay variety.

[An Xbox 360 demo at GC and an interview with a PR representative at Red Octane have revealed some new information on Guitar Hero 3 for Wii.]

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TalkBack / PREVIEWS: Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock

« on: August 23, 2007, 05:36:08 PM »

An Xbox 360 demo at GC and an interview with a PR representative at Red Octane have revealed some new information on Guitar Hero 3 for Wii.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/previewArt.cfm?artid=14282

 Bryan Lamb from publisher Red Octane was kind enough to sit down and talk about Guitar Hero 3 at GC. Before showing the Xbox 360 version, he confirmed that the Wii version would be very comparable to it – both in terms of graphics and gameplay. A lower resolution and a different guitar controller, which has an indentation for the Wii Remote, represent two differences, neither of which will alter the gameplay significantly.    

When asked about online multiplayer a more glaring difference came up, though. As opposed to the other versions, the Wii installment may come without online features. Wii gamers could be missing out on both downloadable content as well as online multiplayer. The reason given was that Nintendo doesn’t have their online structure ready, and no one really knows when to expect it. Red Octane has not ruled out the possibility of launching the game without online features and then add them post-release, when the service gets up and running.    

While the core gameplay remains largely untouched compared to its prequel, Guitar Hero 3 does promise some new features. Apart from new items, characters, and venues, you can partake in boss battles as explained in the earlier preview. Visually, you can now see all the band members play the instruments as they would it in real-life: they hit the right chords at the right time.    

The song list has obviously changed as well. At the show, new songs were announced, bringing the total amount to 44:  

 
• "3's and 7's" – Queens of the Stone Age
 
• "Avalancha" - Héroes del Silencio
 
• "Barracuda" – Heart
 
• "Black Magic Woman" – Santana
 
• "Cherub Rock" – Smashing Pumpkins
 
• "Closer" - Lacuna Coil
 
• "Cities on Flame with Rock and Roll" – Blue Öyster Cult
 
• "Cult of Personality" – Living Colour
 
• "Even Flow" – Pearl Jam
 
• "Generation Rock" – Revolverheld
 
• "Go That Far" – Bret Michaels Band
 
• "Hier Kommt Alex" - Die Toten Hosen
 
• "I'm in the Band" - The Hellacopters
 
• "In the Belly of a Shark" - Gallows
 
• "Knights of Cydonia" – Muse
 
• "La Grange" – ZZ Top
 
• "Lay Down" – Priestess
 
• "Mauvais Garçon" - NAAST
 
• "The Metal" – Tenacious D
 
• "Minus Celsius" - Backyard Babies
 
• "Miss Murder" – AFI
 
• "Mississippi Queen" – Mountain[31]
 
• "My Name Is Jonas" – Weezer
 
• "The Number of the Beast" – Iron Maiden
 
• "One" – Metallica
 
• "Paint It, Black" – The Rolling Stones
 
• "Paranoid" – Black Sabbath
 
• "Radio Song" - Superbus
 
• "Raining Blood" – Slayer
 
• "Reptilia" – The Strokes
 
• "Rock and Roll All Nite" – Kiss
 
• "Rock You Like a Hurricane" – Scorpions
 
• "Ruby" - Kaiser Chiefs
 
• "Sabotage" – Beastie Boys
 
• "School's Out" – Alice Cooper
 
• "She Bangs the Drums" – The Stone Roses
 
• "She Builds Quick Machines" – Velvet Revolver
 
• "Slow Ride" – Foghat
 
• "Suck My Kiss" – Red Hot Chili Peppers
 
• "Talk Dirty to Me" - Poison
 
• "Take This Life" - In Flames
 
• "Through the Fire and Flames" – DragonForce
 
• "Welcome to the Jungle" – Guns N' Roses
 
• "When You Were Young" – The Killers
 

   

More than 70 songs are planned for the final game.    

Regarding difficulty levels, Red Octane and developer Neversoft acknowledge the existence of the series’ hardcore fan base, which demands insane levels of challenge. Their wish will apparently be granted, while entirely new players will be able to instantly pick up and play the game, too.    

On a side note, Bryan mentioned that Red Octane doesn’t regard Rock Band as a threat to the sales of Guitar Hero 3. He believes the products are sufficiently different from each other. By focusing on the implementation of just one instrument, Neversoft and Red Octane believe that they’re in a very positive position because they can perfect the controls to an extent that would have been impossible had they wrestled with more instruments.

[Even when considering the absence of Brawl, Battalion Wars II, and Mario Kart Wii, you should click to get a tour of Nintendo's booth. UPDATED: Now with videos.]

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TalkBack / Nintendo's Booth at GC Detailed

« on: August 22, 2007, 10:19:02 AM »

Even when considering the absence of Brawl, Battalion Wars II, and Mario Kart Wii, you should click to get a tour of Nintendo's booth. UPDATED: Now with videos.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14269

 While Nintendo chose not to hold an actual press conference, they did invite members of the press for an extensive collective booth tour. Nothing groundbreaking was ever revealed, and no new games were shown. Instead, Nintendo faithfully relied on Super Mario Galaxy, Wii Fit, as well as a bunch of non-games for Nintendo DS to wow the crowd. Based on the general press reaction, they succeeded.    

When all was still quiet, the Nintendo booth looked like this:    

     

In German, Nintendo started off detailing their vision of bringing non-gamers and hardcore gamers together with gameplay experiences that cater to both groups. Yes, we’ve heard the story before. Among other titles, they mentioned Nintendogs, Brain Age, and Wii Sports as examples showing how successful their strategy is. Impressive sales graphs and demographical data supported their claims - Nintendo apparently holds a hardware market share of 65% in Germany, and more than half of all gamers are over the age of 40!    

Nintendo also demoed Super Mario Galaxy live. Clearly the highlight of the presentation, the demo started with Mario running at the foot of a big hill. Mario was controlled all the way to the top, using triple jumps, wall jumps, back flips, and butt stumps, after which he turned into a bee – just like at E3. Still, the demo continued to impress with its sharp visuals, smooth framerate, and multitude of objects to interact with. Watch the demo here:    

     

A video followed, showing footage from many titles already released in the States. Super Paper Mario, Pokémon Battle Revolution, English Training (for Germans), Metroid Prime 3: Corruption, Forever Blue, and Flash Focus, a game that “trains" your eyes, were among them. Watch it here:    

     

  The Big Brain Academy demo, which came next, proved less entertaining. After teaching everyone about how to actually improve one’s memory (don’t ask!), the woman demoing the game found a journalist willing to join her in a two-player versus battle. He lost, though.    

The Wii Fit demo didn’t come off as a surprise, considering the amount of floor space it occupied. However, a video appeared first:    

   

Like at E3, the game was demoed in a competitive context. One player would play the hula hoop mini-game, while another waited for her turn and eventually tried to get the high-score.  She failed, but, nonetheless, it was entertaining to watch.    

At the end, people were allowed to walk around freely, eat as many healthy free apples as possible, and try out some of the games. Super Mario Galaxy proved particularly popular, but also titles like Wii Fit and Phantom Hourglass drew a crowd.    

In the near future, look for more previews and impressions on Nintendo’s titles, including Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games, which was playable at the Sega booth.

[October just got even more expensive.]

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TalkBack / Phantom Hourglass Gets European Release Date

« on: August 22, 2007, 04:02:58 AM »

October just got even more expensive.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14268

 COMPLETE A NEW ZELDA ADVENTURE ON THE MOVE!    

Link makes his debut on the Nintendo DS and is fully touch screen controlled!    

22nd August 2007 - Get ready for an iconic debut as Link and the world famous Legend of Zelda series, makes its very first appearance on the Nintendo DS! Retaining the elements which have made the Zelda series such a worldwide hit, having sold over a staggering 52 million units globally, this latest full-scale adventure adds a new and exciting level of interaction by allowing players to intuitively control the entire game utilising the Nintendo DS touch screen controls. The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass hits the shelves across Europe on 19th October 2007.    

Taking the helm, in this direct sequel to the Nintendo GameCube hit, The Legend Of Zelda: Wind Waker, The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass picks up with our legendary hero Link, along with Tetra (also known as Princess Zelda from the fallen kingdom of Hyrule) and her crew of Pirates setting sail in search of new lands. On their journey they encounter a dense area of fog, home to a lone Ghost Ship, which Tetra boards to explore alone. However, evil awaits her and she is kidnapped! As the Ghost Ship and Tetra are whisked away to far off lands, it’s down to Link and his fairy companion Ciela to fill the Phantom Hourglass. This ancient artefact can help protect them from cursed dungeons and once again help them to save the day and the princess in this brand new adventure!    

Using the stylus, players can move, fight, sail, take notes and interact with other characters all with intuitive taps, lines and sweeping movements with their stylus. When controlling Link on discovered islands, tap the screen in front of him to move forward, similarly use the same motion to communicate and gain information from characters around. Whilst at sea, players will be able to sail with ease as they draw the path for Link’s ship and fire the onboard cannon at passing enemies by tapping the screen over them.    

Link’s iconic sword fighting skills have also received a touch screen makeover as players use the stylus to control our hero in combat, tapping and quickly drawing lines to vanquish enemies encountered. Players can carry out a lock-on attack by tapping on the enemy which will have Link automatically deliver them a blow or you can draw the line to perform a slide slash. Players can also activate a spin attack by drawing a circle around Link using the Stylus, making The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass intuitive and accessible for Zelda fans, old or new. Furthermore, players will find all items, such as Link’s bow, boomerang and bombs, are controllable with the stylus, adding a fresh new depth to controls and puzzle solving in the game. To use the boomerang for example, players must draw a path and their weapon will follow it.    

For the first time in a Zelda game, players can also flip their map to the bottom of the two screens to make all-important notes on an area or highlight danger areas to look out for. However, the touch screen is not the only Nintendo DS feature used in the game. The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass also makes use of the console’s microphone.    

But the fun doesn’t stop once players have completed their adventure to recover Tetra. For the first time in a Legend of Zelda series, The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass features an exciting multiplayer mode which allows two players to take on a battle of their own through either the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection or the Nintendo DS’s Wireless connection. One player assumes the role of Link, with the aim of gaining as many points as possible by carrying Force Gems back to their base, whilst their opponent controls the Phantoms trying to make Link drop his precious treasure!    

With over seven new dungeons to explore and a new and exciting way to control our hero, this latest adventure is for you, whether you are an experienced Zelda fan of old or this is your first adventure! The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass launches across Europe on 19th October for the Nintendo DS at an estimated retail price of around £30.

[Corruption sets in on 26th October.]

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TalkBack / Metroid Prime 3 Gets European Release Date

« on: August 22, 2007, 03:57:54 AM »

Corruption sets in on 26th October.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14267

 FINAL CORRUPTION: THE RETURN OF SAMUS ARAN!    

Complete The Trilogy As Metroid Prime 3: Corruption Debuts On Wii    

22nd August 2007, The final installment to the stellar Metroid Prime series is close on the horizon! Step into the shoes of the legendary bounty hunter, Samus Aran, this time with the most tactile and innovative controls the series has seen to date. Join the battle as Samus’ final epic adventure. Metroid Prime 3: Corruption hits shelves across Europe on 26th October 2007.    

Never before has a Metroid game allowed you to feel more in the heat of the action! When players take control of Samus in Metroid Prime 3: Corruption, they will experience a whole new style of gameplay through the Wii’s unique controls. Using the Wii Remote and Nunchuk attachment, players are able to intuitively aim their weapon by pointing the Wii Remote at the screen, whilst moving Samus around her various destinations with the analogue stick on the Nunchuk.    

With the Wii Remote, players will find they can shoot, jump and activate Samus’ visor select system with comfort. Players can even use the Visor to control Samus’ ship by remote control, helping them overcome obstacles. What’s more, players can upgrade and even take the helm and fly the ship for the first time. The Nunchuk‘s motion sensor also plays an important role as it activates the useful Grapple ability, which can be used to pull shields out of enemy hands, open hatches and move large objects and much more! You can also swing across huge gaps by using the Grapple beam.    

Set six months on from the events of Metroid Prime 2: Echoes on planet Aether, which saw the confrontation between Dark Samus, the Galactic Federation’s computer network has been hit by something which resembles a crippling virus, and only quick action will save the entire network from going down. Believing Space Pirates are behind the attack, The Galactic Federation calls upon Samus and a band of bounty hunters to jump into action. However, they soon discover the enemy at hand is greater than just the Space Pirates. The presumed-dead Dark Samus has returned with a sinister plan to corrupt the universe with the deadly Phazon! In their first face-off Dark Samus blasts the player and their allies with a blast of corrupted energy. What sort of effect will the Phazon have on them?    

As Samus travels from planet to planet, exploring different worlds to thwart this evil plan, players must seek upgrades for her and her ship, to help defeat Dark Samus and restore peace to the universe. A brand new upgrade named Phazon Enhancement Device outfitted by Galactic Federation is available for the first time in Metorid Prime 3: Corruption giving Samus extra strength to fight enemies in Hypermode. However super strength comes at a price – if players remain in Hypermode too long they will become corrupted by the Phazon and if they don’t vent their corruption in time it could mean death.    

In Metroid Prime 3 Corruption, players are able to adjust the sensitivity levels of the Wii Remote’s aim, allowing the amount of assist provided to vary. There is also another setting which enables even the most advanced player to enjoy Lock-on-Free Aiming, where they will have complete aim control of their weapon when the enemy is within their sights! The game features different control settings allowing players of all different skill levels to vary the assistance they receive.    

As an additional bonus, players will be rewarded throughout the game with Special Achievement Points, which can be used to unlock additional content. So, with plenty of hidden areas and secrets to uncover, Metroid Prime 3: Corruption will not disappoint as it launches only on Wii across Europe on 26th October 2007 for an estimated retail price of approximately £35.

[Promising to combine minigames and narrative, Dating Day is coming late next year.]

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TalkBack / Daedelic Announces Dating Day for the DS

« on: August 22, 2007, 03:42:26 AM »

Promising to combine minigames and narrative, Dating Day is coming late next year.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14264

 Daedalic unveils Dating Day for Nintendo DS    

Hamburg, Germany: August 23, 2007. German publisher and developer Daedalic Entertainment presents their new project exclusively at this year’s Leipzig Games Convention. Dating Day couples minigames with a strong narrative in a unique Nintendo DS game, developed by Daedalic’s internal development studio.    

Dating Day features an engaging storyline all about that crucial “first date". Players try to woo the boy of their dreams, by mastering a host of original minigames. Players can individually design their avatar, deck it out with fashionable accessories and style it in every way possible. Cute animations and teen-pop sound are sure to capture the hearts of young girls.    

„Story and characters have been developed to have maximum appeal to young girls. The relevant topic and age-appropriate presentation is tailored perfectly to girls aged 8-14. In the run-up to GC, we have already gathered a lot of positive feedback to the game and are currently pursuing these talks with great intensity," said Florian Groß, product manager at Daedalic Entertainment.    

In addition, Daedalic is showing several other titles, including first scenes from their adventure game project A New Beginning, to trade visitors at their GC stand G52 in hall 1.

[Konami's renowned series finally gets the Wii treatment... next year.]

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TalkBack / Pro Evolution Soccer Series Coming to Wii

« on: August 22, 2007, 03:23:21 AM »

Konami's renowned series finally gets the Wii treatment... next year.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14263

 Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH to bring best-selling Pro Evolution Soccer series to Wii    

Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH has announced it will be bringing its multi-million-selling Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) series to Nintendo Wii™, with a bespoke version of the game being developed for the system for release in 2008.    

Scheduled for a Q1 launch, the Wii version of PES will offer the same level of realism that has established the series as the definitive football title, but has been undergone a radical rethink to make the most of the Wii’s motion-sensitive control system. The game will make full use of the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers, offering total control over every aspect of the players and their movements both on and off the ball. The clever use of the Wii controllers will allow users to send players running into space, and to distribute the ball with ease.    

“We are extremely keen to introduce PES to as wide a selection of football fans as possible, and the Wii and its unique abilities are a perfect fit," commented Jon Murphy, Pro Evolution Soccer Team Leader for Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH. “The potential for PES on the format is enormous, and we look forward to a very exciting start to 2008."    

PES (Provisional Title) will be released for Nintendo Wii™ in Q1 2008.

[Expect coverage directly from the show floor throughout the week.]

36

TalkBack / Games Convention 2007 Officially Kicks Off

« on: August 21, 2007, 09:37:28 PM »

Expect coverage directly from the show floor throughout the week.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14258

 GC - Games Convention 2007 Opens with Record Figures:    

34 Percent more Exhibitors    

25 Percent more Surface Area    

200,000 Visitors Expected    

Approximately 2,800 Journalists from over 35 Countries    

Over 225 World, European and German Premieres:    

Starting signal for the GC - Games Convention 2007!    

Europe's leading fair for entertainment, infotainment, edutainment and hardware welcomes its visitors with record figures once again. 503 exhibitors from 31 countries (2005: 374 exhibitors from 24 countries) are presenting their latest products this year, on a total of 112,500 square metres (2006: 90,000 square metres). This represents an increase in size for the exhibition area of 25 percent over the previous year.    

"This year I am convinced that we will have up to 200,000 visitors at the GC", says Josef Rahmen, Managing Director of the Leipziger Messe. Last year saw a total of 183,000 visitors welcomed to the exhibition centre site. "The GC is continuing to build upon its position as the leading European fair. This year we are expecting over 9,000 trade visitors and some 2,800 journalists from over 35 countries."    

Particularly strong growth has been recorded for the GC Business Center (B2B), the international meeting point for commerce, developers, publishers, manufacturers and service providers from the computer and video game sector. Exhibitors from over 29 different countries are in attendance this year, including several communal stands from Germany, France, Canada and Singapore. "The GC Business Center offers ideal conditions for completing orders for the forthcoming Christmas business. This is underlined by the extremely high demand. International exhibitors in particular are increasingly being attracted to Leipzig", declares Peggy Schönbeck, GC Project Director. The GC Business Center comprises the Congress Center Leipzig (CCL) and complete Hall 1. With this, the GC Business Center boasts an exhibition surface area of 30,000 square metres (gross). Overall, exhibitors have announced over 225 world, European and German premieres for the GC 2007.    

GC Gala Opens the Fair  Games Music Concert Promises an Audio Treat    

This year the GC will be ceremonially opened with the GC Gala. Over 600 invited guests from the fields of business, politics, media and the exhibiting companies will be treated to an atmospheric evening in the Glass hall of the Leipziger Messe on 22 August. The opening speeches will be given by Wolfgang Tiefensee, Federal Minister of Transport, Building and Urban Affairs and Federal Government Commissioner for the New Federal States, Dr. Georg Milbradt, Prime Minister of the Free State of Saxony and the Mayor of the City of Leipzig, Burkhard Jung.    

At the same time, the traditional games music concert will be staged for the fifth time at the Gewandhaus concert hall in Leipzig. Fans of classical interpretations of games music can look forward to a musical masterpiece. For a total of two hours, the renowned FILMharmonic Orchestra Prague, conducted by Maestro Andy Brick, will play title melodies from popular computer and video games.    

In the presence of well-known games music composers such as Chris Hülsbeck and Takenobu Mitsuyoshi extracts will be played from Final Fantasy XI, StarCraft, New Super Mario Bros, Maniac Mansion: Day of the Tentacle, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater and a Commodore 64 medley and Commodore Amiga medley. Absolute highlights of the performance are the appearance of the Japanese star opera singer Izumi Masuda, the German singer Conny Kollet and world-class percussion artist Rony Barrak from the Lebanon. The programme is hosted by the well-known TV presenter Roman Knoblauch.    

GC Freestyle Extends Entertainment Spectrum    

The GC offers even more excitement this year. From 22 to 26 August the Leipziger Messe is staging an open-air summer festival for the first time, the GC Freestyle. After the GC has closed its doors for the day the Stadion des Friedens (Max-Liebermann-Straße) is the venue for exclusive live concerts, numerous sporting activities and its own open-air swimming pool. In addition, a campsite offers the option of overnight stays for visitors. "With the GC Freestyle we aim to provide younger GC visitors with a full-service package. People coming to Leipzig should be having fun and not have to worry about looking for accommodation", says Peggy Schönbeck, GC Project Director.    

Day tickets are available for 43 Euro, four-day tickets for 130 Euro. In addition to access to the GC freestyle site, the tickets are also valid for admittance to the GC and use of public transport. Those only wishing to attend the concerts pay 19.80 Euro plus advanced booking fee. The three concerts in the package can be attended for 50.00 Euro plus advanced booking fee. Tickets are available at www.gc-germany.com, at www.funtix.de, at sales counters in the Glass hall of the Leipziger Messe or on the doors.    

Fans of German rock music, in particular, are in for a treat. On Thursday evening four young German music groups will take to the stage at the GC Freestyle; Dante's Dream, Madsen, Revolverheld und Virginia Jetzt!. Bands from the music scene will also be playing into the night on the other evenings, with acts including the crossover band H-Blockx and Hamburg rapper Samy Deluxe. An up-and-coming new band is also present, in the form of Nevada Tan.    

GC family with Hall of Its Own    

This year's GC family is presented under the motto "Learning through play and learning to play". The specialised area for media skills in the family, learning and school software and child-friendly media provides information to parents, teachers and children on all questions regarding interactive play and learning. New this year: for the first time, the GC family will have its own hall (Hall 5). On a total of 7,500 square metres (2006: 5,000 square metres), developers of children's and family software, providers of educational and learning software, educational web portals and media institutions will present their wares.    

The GC family addresses two new topics this year, with the GC Educational Forum and the sub-section Training & Profession. Alongside this is the classic Family Entertainment area, which provides families with the opportunity to familiarise themselves with current learning and games software together.    

In the new Training & Profession section visitors can experience features such as a glass development studio. In co-operation with the Bundesverband für Interaktive Unterhaltungssoftware e.V. (BIU) and exDream Studios the Leipziger Messe provides a peek behind the scenes at a games development studio. The typical creation process of a casual game is illustrated in four stages. Visitors can look over the shoulders of programmers and obtain information about just what the job of games developer entails.    

One particular activity is organised by the GC family exhibitor Rabenstark Spielzeuge. All families that can prove that they travelled to this year's GC with the Deutsche Bahn are presented with a free copy of the computer game "Ich habe einen Freund, der ist Lokführer" (I have a friend that's a train driver).    

GC ART Draws in Visitors with Four Exhibitions on Digital Games    

Following the successful launch of the GC ART exhibition area last year, this year sees the GC (Games Convention) repeat its display of computer and console art once again. The exhibitions "public_play", "Telespiele 1972-2007", "Machinima" and "Digital Beauty – 3D Character Design" will be providing visitors with a look at different aspects of digital games in Hall 5. Numerous workshops provide interested visitors with the opportunity to create small works of art of their own.    

Fun-Sport, Casemodding, Animé Cinema and Games Figure Exhibition    

The GC also offers a number of attractions for those breaks between games. Numerous fun sport areas offer activities such as ice-skating (Hall 4), human bowling (Hall 2) and beach volleyball (open exhibition area). Those in search of relaxation can lounge on a comfortable GC beanbag in one of the three chill-out areas or take a look at the games figure exhibition in Hall 5. Here they can admire life-size figures of characters including Super Mario, Darth Vader and Lara Croft.    

Put a stop to boring PC cases! The Casemodding@GC exhibition shows GC visitors that a computer is not something that has to be concealed beneath a desk. More and more creative craftsmen from the computer scene are joining the trend in casemodding, with some of their most spectacular works of art presented at the GC. Casemodding is a kind of specialised tuning: optical refinements and unique functions turn the standard grey cases into radiant media centres. A unique competition, the GC CasemodMasters (GCCM), sees the best German casemodders compete against each other for the fourth time. The competition is organised by the Leipziger Messe and casemodding community experts casemodder.de.    

Attention all animé fans: In Hall 4 GC visitors can enjoy an animé cinema for the first time. Viewers can dive into the colourful world of animé on a surface area of 340 square metres. With seating for 100, the cinema offers an opportunity to take relaxing time out from the turbulence of the games area.    

GCDC 2007: The International Game Development Community Met In Leipzig Once Again    

The fifth GC Developers Conference (GCDC), Europes most important developer's conference, ended today with a record participation of more than 870 attendees, who came from over 35 countries. At GCDC 2007, they obtained information on the latest trends in the developer sector, focusing on Online Gaming, Outsourcing and Business Development. "We want to provide the perfect environment for knowledge transfer and networking amongst international game developers and industry veterans on the highest possible level. The basis of our work is to organize a conference 'from developers for developers'", says Frank Sliwka, project director of GCDC. Speakers included Julian Eggebrecht (Faktor 5), Michael Capps (President, Epic Games), Tim Schafer (Double Fine Productions), Bruce Shelley (Ensemble Studios) and Bob Wallace (Strategic Alternatives).    

GC 2006 Retrospective:    

The GC 2006 was attended by a total of 183,000 visitors (2005: 134,000), with 200 world, European and German premieres presented by 374 exhibitors from 24 countries (2005: 280 exhibitors from 15 countries). Over 2,610 journalists from 38 countries (2005: 2,000 journalists from 28 countries) reported on Europe's leading trade and interactive fair in the sector, the focus of which was upon interactive entertainment.

[Nintendo of Europe will distribute Zack & Wiki and Ace Attorney Apollo Justice in Europe.]

37

TalkBack / Nintendo of Europe and Capcom Ink Deal

« on: August 21, 2007, 09:30:23 PM »

Nintendo of Europe will distribute Zack & Wiki and Ace Attorney Apollo Justice in Europe.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14257

 NEW GEM ADDED TO WII'S CHRISTMAS TREASURE CHEST    

Nintendo of Europe to distribute Zack & WikiTM: Quest for Barbaros' Treasure for Wii    

21st August 2007 – Puzzle fans are in for a treat this Christmas with Zack & Wiki™: Quest for Barbaros’ Treasure, a quirky and innovative title that will challenge players to “Play Different" as they embark on a colourful journey across seven-themed stages on a quest to find a legendary ship and ultimately become the greatest pirate in the world! This puzzle adventure title is developed and published by Capcom and will be distributed by Nintendo of Europe.    

Zack & Wiki™: Quest for Barbaros’ Treasure allows players to truly interact with the world around them thanks to the innovative Wii Remote. Players can move and open objects, transform items and unlock new paths all with simple tactile movements of their remote. The Wii Remote will be used in a variety of ways including turning keys, rotating handles and even playing a piccolo as players strive to solve more and more difficult puzzles they encounter. In total there are over 80 different objects that can be manipulated in the game.    

The adventure features a range of locations for players to explore from lush jungle to barren frozen ice temples. With seven large stages and over 20 sub-stages to master, Zack & Wiki™: Quest for Barbaros’ Treasure is not for the faint hearted. There are more than 500 items to collect and 35 types of enemy to outwit, meaning this game will provide 30 - 40 hours of mind-bending puzzle solving adventure.    

There is a treat in store from Capcom for Nintendo DS owners as Ace Attorney; the franchise that has sold over 2 million copies worldwide, will see its latest installment on this popular handheld console. The exciting courtroom drama series, Ace Attorney Apollo Justice, which is the first title in the series to be developed specifically for the Nintendo DS, will see the introduction of a brand new lead character and a new chapter. Being developed and published by Capcom and distributed by Nintendo of Europe this is a title you’re just not going to be able to wait to play!    

Zack & Wiki™: Quest for Barbaros’ Treasure launches across Europe on the Wii on 7th December 2007, at the estimated retail price of around £35.    

Further information on Ace Attorney Apollo Justice for the Nintendo DS will be available in the near future.

[Another scoop for Midway?]

38

TalkBack / Midway to Publish Cocoto Kart Racer in Europe

« on: August 05, 2007, 10:55:06 PM »

Another scoop for Midway?
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14171

 Midway Hits The Track With Cocoto Kart Racer    

Neko Entertainment's Kart-Blast under starter's orders on NintendoTM DSTM    

London, 2007 - Midway Games Ltd., a subsidiary of Midway Games Inc. (NYSE: MWY), has signed the European publishing rights to the fast and fun-packed Cocoto Kart Racer™ from Paris-based developer and publisher, Neko Entertainment, on Nintendo™ DS™.    

DS owners will be able to choose from a mixture of 12 different good ‘n’ evil characters and their crazy karts. The game’s two modes of play feature a racing championship and a pick-up-and-play race across 15 mind-boggling tracks. Devastating attacks crank the action up a gear – especially when playing across the Wifi multiplayer network.    

Leonie Manshanden, European Marketing Director, Midway Games Ltd, said, “Neko Entertainment’s Cocoto Kart Racer is the perfect game for DS owners of all ages, and we’re delighted to be working closely with Neko on this release."

[Midway just couldn't say no to a Myst remake with touch screen controls.]

39

TalkBack / Midway to Publish Myst in Europe

« on: August 05, 2007, 10:32:00 PM »

Midway just couldn't say no to a Myst remake with touch screen controls.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14169

 Midway Goes For A Double With MystTM On Nintendo DSTM    

Cyan Worlds' timeless adventure pocketed for Nintendo's handheld    

  London – 6 August, 2007 - Midway Games Ltd., a subsidiary of Midway Games Inc. (NYSE: MWY), today announced a European publishing agreement (excluding South Africa, Australia & New Zealand) for Myst™ on Nintendo DS.    

Myst made the successful transition to a handheld format last year, releasing on Sony PlayStation® Portable (PSP®) and demonstrating the timeless, engaging experience that’s unique to the series. The DS development of the original game will embrace many of the hardware features only available on this format. Control elements like the touch screen will allow players to interact on a level that’s never been possible before.    

There are no instructions and the player begins a voyage of exploration without encountering a single living soul. Alone on a mysterious island, you set out to explore its grandeur and mystery. Here a chilling tale of intrigue and injustice, defying all boundaries of space and time, is being told. Quickly, though, it becomes clear every action can somehow help unfortunate individuals trapped somewhere in a parallel dimension. The Myst adventure is like no other, tantalizing with its unique combination of lavish environments, puzzles, mazes, and a sizzling underlying drama which steadily unfolds to reward the player further still. More details about the game and release information will be made available shortly.    

Leonie Manshanden, European Marketing Director, Midway Games Ltd, said, “Myst lends itself well to portable formats, as we saw from the PSP release. The DS will add an extra dimension using the touch screen, and the game matches this handheld’s expanding demographic perfectly."

[Revenues increase so losses decrease.]

40

TalkBack / Midway Announces Q2 Financial Results

« on: August 03, 2007, 09:19:54 AM »

Revenues increase so losses decrease.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14165

 Midway Reports 2007 Q2 Results    

Chicago, Illinois, August 2, 2007 - Midway Games Inc. (NYSE: MWY) today announced results of operations for the three month period ended June 30, 2007. The Company also confirmed its prior full year guidance and provided revenue and earnings guidance for the third quarter ending September 30, 2007.    

Second quarter results    

Net revenues for the 2007 second quarter were $31.8 million, compared to the 2006 second quarter net revenues of $25.9 million and ahead of prior guidance of approximately $29 million. The 2007 second quarter net loss was $14.3 million, or a loss of $0.16 per basic and diluted share, compared with a 2006 second quarter net loss of $31.0 million, or a loss of $0.34 per basic and diluted share.    

On a non-GAAP basis, excluding the impact of stock-option expenses and certain non-cash items, the 2007 second quarter loss was $11.0 million or a loss of $0.12 per basic and diluted share, compared to the Company’s previous non-GAAP guidance of a loss of approximately $0.14 per basic and diluted share. For the 2006 second quarter, on a non-GAAP basis, the Company had a loss of $29.9 million, or a loss of $0.33 per basic and diluted share. A reconciliation of non-GAAP results to GAAP results is provided at the end of this press release.    

Other recent operating highlights include:    

Midway launched in North America The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar for PC, and worldwide Mortal Kombat: Armageddon for the Wii, Hour of Victory for the Xbox 360, Hot Brain for the PSP, and Touchmaster for the Nintendo DS.  Several of Midway’s games shown at this year’s E3 Media & Business Summit received awards and critical praise including Stranglehold with first runner up for IGN’s “Best Action Game," Unreal Tournament 3 with runner up for IGN’s “Best Graphics Technology" and “PS3 Best First Person Shooter," and finalist for GameSpot’s “Best Shooter," as well as multiple other accolades and nominations.  Midway, in conjunction with developer Epic Games, Inc., and Sony Computer Entertainment America, announced that the highly anticipated and award-winning Unreal Tournament 3 will be exclusive to the PlayStation 3 and PC in 2007. Unreal Tournament 3 will also be the first console game to feature robust user generated content including multiplayer maps, custom game modes and much more.  Midway also announced upcoming Nintendo exclusives including Cruis'n and Game Party for Wii; and Ultimate Mortal Kombat, The Bee Game, and Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends for Nintendo DS.    

David F. Zucker, president and chief executive officer, commented, “In addition to successful second quarter launches including The Lord of the Rings Online and Mortal Kombat: Armageddon for the Wii, we continued to extend our casual games business. Along with Touchmaster brought to the Nintendo DS and Hot Brain for the PSP, we released six of our classic titles on the PlayStation Online Store, and we have become one of the top sellers of classic arcade games on Microsoft’s Xbox Live Arcade." >    

Outlook    

During the third quarter, the Company expects to release worldwide Stranglehold for the PS3, Xbox 360, and PC, and Hour of Victory for PC; MYST for the Nintendo DS in Europe; and Big Buck Hunter for the PC in North America. For the third quarter ending September 30, 2007, Midway expects the following:    

Net revenues of approximately $50 million, with a net loss of approximately $0.23 per basic and diluted share.  On a non-GAAP basis, Midway expects a third quarter loss of approximately $0.17 per basic and diluted share, which excludes approximately:  * $0.01 of stock option expense and deferred income tax expense related to goodwill, and  * $0.05 of non-cash convertible debt interest expense.    

For the year ending December 31, 2007, Midway’s full year outlook remains unchanged:    

Net revenues are expected to grow approximately 36% to $225 million with a net loss of approximately $0.44 per basic and diluted share.  On a non-GAAP basis, Midway expects a loss of approximately $0.27 per basic and diluted share, which excludes approximately:  * $0.02 of stock option expense,  * $0.13 of non-cash convertible debt interest expense, and  * $0.02 of deferred income tax expense related to goodwill.    

Mr. Zucker concluded, “The response to our 2007 line-up at E3 was overwhelmingly positive, and we believe this sets the stage for our upcoming releases of Stranglehold, BlackSite: Area 51, and Unreal Tournament 3, as well as our other titles for the remainder of this year. We are at the culmination of the first part of our next generation strategy, and we are very excited to show the market the fruits of our labors starting with Stranglehold."

[A bunch of movie tie-ins as well as Guitar Hero II made Activision very happy.]

41

TalkBack / Activision Announces Q1 Financial Results

« on: August 03, 2007, 09:09:41 AM »

A bunch of movie tie-ins as well as Guitar Hero II made Activision very happy.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14164

 Activision Announces Record First Quarter 2008 Results    

First Quarter Net Revenues Increase 163% and EPS Hits All Time Q1 High - - Company Increases Fiscal 2008 Net Revenue and EPS Outlook - - Company Expects To Deliver Record Fiscal Year Operating Margin    

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Aug 02, 2007 - Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq:ATVI) today announced record financial results for the first fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2007.    

Net revenues were $495.5 million, a 163% increase, as compared to net revenues of $188.1 million reported for the first quarter last fiscal year. Net income for the first fiscal quarter was $27.8 million, or $0.09 earnings per diluted share, as compared to a net loss of $18.3 million, or a loss per share of $0.07 reported for the previous first quarter. Excluding the impact of expenses related to equity-based compensation, the company reported net income of $32.8 million and earnings per diluted share of $0.11 for the first quarter. This compares to a net loss of $14.7 million and loss per share of $0.05, excluding the impact of expenses related to equity-based compensation for the first quarter of last fiscal year.    

Robert Kotick, Chairman and CEO of Activision, stated, "During the quarter, we shipped more than eight million units of new game releases worldwide and for the first six months of the calendar year, Activision was the #1 third-party U.S. publisher on the console and handheld platforms. As a result of our strong performance, we are raising our fiscal year 2008 net revenue and earnings outlook and are increasing our fiscal year operating margin outlook to a company record"    

Kotick continued, "Our focus on growing our strong franchises and next- generation console leadership position is yielding superb results. We intend to continue expanding our franchise portfolio, strengthening our development capabilities and improving our operating efficiency over the balance of the fiscal year. We believe this strategy will create strengths and capabilities that should enable us to continue growing our revenues, operating margin and earnings per share, as well as increase our return on invested capital."    

 Business Highlights    

Activision's record first quarter performance was driven by strong consumer response to its proven franchises, Guitar Hero IITM, Spider-Man 3TM and Shrek The ThirdTM, as well as its new intellectual property TRANSFORMERS: The Game, which was released in the U.S. during the quarter.    

According to The NPD Group, during the quarter, Activision was the #1 U.S. publisher on both the Xbox 360TM video game and entertainment system and the PlayStation® 2 computer entertainment system. The company also ranked as the #1 third-party publisher on the PLAYSTATION® 3 computer entertainment system and the Nintendo platforms in the U.S. Activision grew its U.S. console and hand-held market share to 16.9%, as compared with 8.5% over the same period last year.    

Other quarterly business highlights are as follows:    

- Guitar Hero II and Spider-Man 3 were two of the top-three best-selling titles for the quarter in the U.S., according to The NPD Group. Guitar Hero II was the #1 best-selling U.S. console game overall, and Spider-Man 3 was the #3 best-selling U.S. console and handheld game.    

- Shrek The Third was the #1 kid's movie-based title in the U.S. for the months of May and June combined, according to The NPD Group.    

- In the U.S., Activision was the #1 third-party handheld publisher, according to The NPD Group.    

- Activision's international publishing revenues grew 240% year over year.    

- In Europe, Spider-Man 3 was the #1 best-selling console and handheld game for the quarter in the U.K., Germany and France, according to Charttrack and Gfk.    

- On May 11, 2007, Activision completed its acquisition of DemonWare, the leading provider of network middleware technologies for console and PC games headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.    

For the second quarter, Activision has already shipped TRANSFORMERS: The Game internationally in connection with the film's theatrical release and Guitar HeroTM Encore: Rocks The 80sTM for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system. Activision also expects to ship Enemy TerritoryTM: Quake Wars on the PC.    

Company Outlook    

Today, Activision increased its fiscal year 2008 net revenue and earnings per share outlook. For the full fiscal year, the company expects net revenues of $1.87 billion and earnings per diluted share of $0.51, including the impact of equity-based compensation expense, compared to the company's previous fiscal year outlook of $1.8 billion in net revenues and earnings per diluted share of $0.45. Excluding the impact of equity-based compensation expense, the company expects earnings per diluted share of $0.61.    

For the second quarter, the company expects net revenues of $250 million and a loss per share of $0.04, including the impact of equity-based compensation expense. Excluding the impact of equity-based compensation expense, the company expects a loss per share of $0.03.

[The popularity of the Power Pro series is huge in Japan, and now 2K Sports and Konami are bringing the series to the States with MLB Power Pros for the Wii.]

42

TalkBack / Power Pro Baseball Series Coming to the US

« on: August 03, 2007, 08:40:47 AM »

The popularity of the Power Pro series is huge in Japan, and now 2K Sports and Konami are bringing the series to the States with MLB Power Pros for the Wii.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14163

 2K Sports and Konami Announce MLB® Power Pros    

  New York, NY and El Segundo, CA - August 3, 2007 - 2K Sports, the sports publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), and Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. announced today a new and exciting Major League Baseball® title - MLB® Power Pros. Developed by Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc., and based on the best selling "Power Pro" baseball series in Japan, MLB Power Pros will be published by 2K Sports in North America and will be available in Fall 2007.    

"For years, Konami's Power Pro Baseball has been Japan's No. 1 baseball game, in sales and fan ratings," said Kazumi Kitaue, Chairman and CEO of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. "Now, in an excellent partnership with 2K Sports, it is with great pleasure that we bring Power Pro Baseball to the North American market as MLB Power Pros, where this great sport was born."    

MLB Power Pros delivers an original visual style to America's favorite pastime. Every MLB® player will be represented in the "Power Pro" character style - a miniature toy-like figurine model. Gamers will recognize their favorite baseball stars through comic usage of facial expressions, facial hair, and hair styles. Every MLB ballpark has been faithfully replicated with their respective famous landmarks, bringing astounding authenticity to every game. This visual combination is certain to delight baseball fans of all ages.    

Solid gameplay features and responsive controls provide an exciting baseball experience in MLB Power Pros. The easy pick-up-and-play mechanics in both pitching and batting allow for instant fun. Amazing animations will be seen in the field with incredible double plays, diving catches, and even home-run-robbing wall catches.    

Featuring over a dozen different game modes, MLB Power Pros offers great long-term playability highlighted by the detailed Season Mode and popular Success Mode. With Season Mode, players become an MLB team general manager with the goal of winning the World Series™ by controlling all aspects of the team including training players, purchasing better equipment, making trades, and much more. Success Mode combines traditional role-playing elements with baseball scenarios to create one of the most unique and compelling game modes in any sports title. This story-based mode puts the user in the role of a college baseball player with the goal of becoming a Major League player - gamers will train the player in numerous games while dealing with real-world situations of academics, part-time jobs, and other social situations.    

MLB® Power Pros will be available on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and the Wii™ home video game system from Nintendo in Fall 2007.

[The localisation team is almost done, as the game releases on 14th September.]

43

TalkBack / Super Paper Mario Gets European Release Date

« on: July 31, 2007, 12:53:21 AM »

The localisation team is almost done, as the game releases on 14th September.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14124

 Taking Mario To The Next Dimension    

Fold effortlessly from 2D to 3D in Super Paper Mario only on Wii    

31st July, 2007- It’s time to brush up on your origami skills as everyone’s favourite plumber embarks upon an all-new quest that is truly out of this dimension in Super Paper Mario on Wii! With the power to flip between 2D and 3D, Mario must embark on a thrilling adventure to reunite his lost friends and save the world. Super Paper Mario launches across Europe for Wii on 14th September 2007.    

As with the previous two games in the Paper Mario series, all characters are as flat as a sheet of paper. However, our hero Mario can manipulate the environment around him to his benefit, opening up new paths and possibilities with the ability to ‘flip’ from 2D to 3D at will. This ability comes in handy throughout the game and is crucial to the progress of the player in his rescue mission. Seemingly impassable barriers are only as thin as a piece of paper when viewed in 3D allowing our hero to walk past with ease and fearsome 2D enemies expose their weak spots in 3D.    

The adventure begins when the mysterious Count Bleck, a mad genius who is determined to fulfil an ancient prophecy, kidnaps Princess Peach, Bowser and Luigi. Bleck forces Peach to marry Bowser so that he can unite good and evil and create a Chaos Heart that will destroy the universe. Only Mario escapes his clutches and now it is up to him to rescue his friends from the evil Count and save the world!    

Players start out controlling Mario, but later on can unlock and control Princess Peach, Bowser and Luigi as well. Each character has their own unique ability allowing them to overcome different puzzles and obstacles. Also lending a helping hand are small sidekicks called Pixls, which Mario will encounter during his journey. Each of these Pixls has a different ability, which can be used to aid the player on their journey. These range from Tippi, who will give information on enemies and items pointed at with the Wii Remote, Carrie who will lift Mario over impassable gaps, and Dottie who can shrink a character to miniscule proportions.    

The majority of on-screen action is controlled simply by holding the Wii Remote sideways using only the Control Pad and two buttons. However, the motion sensing abilities of the Wii Remote also add a dynamic edge to the gameplay. Unique special moves and abilities can be activated by shaking and moving the controller; so that players can not only set up chains and earn bonus points when defeating enemies, but also use abilities like fire, thunder and ice attacks.    

Super Paper Mario mixes the role-playing game-style adventure of its predecessors with the platform action of classic Mario games from yesteryear, bringing players a deep, entertaining quest that is truly the best of both worlds.    

So make sure your platform gaming skills are honed as Super Paper Mario bends, twists and flips its way into stores. Super Paper Mario launches across Europe for Wii on 14th September 2007 at an estimated retail price of around £35.

[The whole continent goes Poké-crazy again this friday, except for a place in London where the madness begins a day early.]

44

TalkBack / Pokémon Diamond and Pearl Hit Europe

« on: July 25, 2007, 01:51:05 AM »

The whole continent goes Poké-crazy again this friday, except for a place in London where the madness begins a day early.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14092

 The Dawn Of A Brand New Pokémon Adventure!    

Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl launch across Europe this Friday    

25th July 2007- The time is here! Following the most successful launch of any Pokémon title in Japan ever and with over one million games flying off the shelves in the first week of launch in the US, the ultimate Pokémon adventure, Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl, arrives in Europe this week. With brand new features never seen before in a Pokémon game, players can expect to meet over 100 new Pokémon and battle prized Pokémon with friends online, as well as having the opportunity to chat with them anywhere in the world through the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service.    

Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl is a brand new and exciting Pokémon adventure crafted to specifically utilise the features of the Nintendo DS, including its unique touch screen, online capabilities and microphone – enabling Voice-Chat capabilities for the first time. Played using a combination of buttons and stylus, this allows players to quickly and accurately control their battling Pokémon. The games are also fully compatible with the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service allowing players to battle, trade and chat with friends from across the globe! If that was not enough, using the Nintendo DS’s local wireless connection, players can also compete in numerous alternative gameplay opportunities ranging from cooking ‘Poffin’ with up to three other friends, or why not explore a huge network of underground tunnels with up to seven friends?    

In this epic adventure, players assume the role of a Pokémon Trainer on the beautiful region of Sinnoh where they soon encounter the Pokémon obsessed Professor Rowan. His mission is to document all the species of Pokémon using his special Pokédex and he needs all the help he can get, so enlists players to lend a hand. This means leaving their home in Twinleaf Town and travelling around Sinnoh, however while doing this, players must also work towards their ultimate goal of becoming Pokémon League Champion. This prestigious honour is only bestowed upon players who have battled and defeated all eight Pokémon Gym Leaders as well as the Elite Four and the current Champion!    

Collecting and battling Pokémon is a crucial part of the game and with over 100 new Pokémon to catch it’s essential to hone your training skills. Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl also allows previously captured Pokémon from all the most recent Pokémon series on the Game Boy Advance (Pokemon Ruby & Sapphire versions, FireRed & LeafGreen versions and Pokemon Emerald version) to be imported, meaning a true Pokémon fanatic can capture well over 400 Pokémon in the game!    

Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl also see the addition of a new exclusive Pokémon to capture! Pokémon Trainers who have completed the Manaphy Egg mission in Pokémon Ranger on Nintendo DS will now be able to transfer the Manaphy Egg to Pokémon Diamond or Pokémon Pearl. Here it will hatch into Manaphy, an extremely rare Pokémon who can’t be captured any other way, so make sure you don’t miss out! Check out www.manaphy.eu ; for details.    

An all-new exciting element for all Pokémon fans is the opportunity to visit the Pokémon Centre Wi-Fi Club within the game. By swapping Friend Codes, here for the first time in a Pokémon adventure players will be able to engage in Voice-Chat with friends while battling and trading Pokémon! There’s also the all new Global Trade Station where you can trade Pokémon safely and anonymously with any other player from around the world. And if you can make it to the Battle Tower you’ll have the chance to pit your wits against other Trainers from anywhere in the world, by downloading their Pokémon data via the Nintendo WiFi Connection service.    

Great online opportunities are not all Pokémon Diamond and Pearl has to offer. Using the local wireless network, link up with friends close by in the Pokémon Wireless Club Union Room to not only battle and trade, but also send messages and draw. Something else friends can do is visit the Pokémon Contest Hall in Hearthome City to take part in the Pokémon Super Contest, where trainers can enter their Pokémon into a talent contest. Going head to head in this contest with up to three other people makes this the ultimate Pokémon competition!    

If setting out on an adventure of this scale seems a little overwhelming, don’t worry. The official Pokémon scenario guide is out on the same day to help you navigate your way through Sinnoh without missing a single elusive Pokémon! With detailed maps of every region of the game, this book is a must-have if you want to complete your Pokédex.    

The UK sees an exclusive launch event at Hamleys, London on Thursday 26th July. For 200 lucky fans in the UK, not only will they be able to get hold of the game one day early, but chart topping sensation McFly will also be making a special appearance. To avoid disappointment and to gain entry to this limited pre-sale event, fans will need to pre-order their copy of Pokémon Diamond or Pokémon Pearl now at GAME in Hamleys (02072875486) or GAME Oxford Street (02076377911.) *    

So get ready to catch Pokémon Diamond and Pokémon Pearl as they land in store across Europe on Nintendo DS this Friday 27th July 2007 at an estimated retail price of around £24.99.    

For further information please contact the Nintendo Press Office on 020 73073103    

*The first 200 customers to pre order the either Pokémon Diamond or Pokémon Pearl in GAME Hamleys or GAME Oxford Street will be allowed access to the signing. This 200 will be made up of 100 Diamond pre-orders and 100 Pearl. Tickets are only available while stocks last.

[The next game in the Pro Evolution Soccer series (known as Winning Eleven in the States) will have the famous striker on its cover alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.]

45

TalkBack / Konami and Michael Owen Ink Deal for PES 2008

« on: July 21, 2007, 01:09:22 AM »

The next game in the Pro Evolution Soccer series (known as Winning Eleven in the States) will have the famous striker on its cover alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=14076

 PES 2008 nets Michael Owen    

   Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH's announces Newcastle and England striker as the UK face of its new Pro Evolution Soccer title    

  Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH has announced that Michael Owen, the Newcastle and England striker, is to feature on the UK packaging and promotional materials of PES 2008 – the latest incarnation of the multi-million-selling Pro Evolution Soccer series.    

Michael Owen is one of the most exciting and prolific strikers in the English game, and will join Cristiano Ronaldo on the UK packshots of PES 2008. Since making his first team debut in 1997, Owen has built a reputation for pace and skill, netting over 178 league goals, and 37 for England. His reputation spans the globe, making Michael the perfect compliment to Cristiano Ronaldo’s status on the world stage, and creating an enviable pairing for the new game.    

The striker will feature alongside Ronaldo on packaging and point-of-sale materials for UK versions of PES 2008, which will launch on PLAYSTATION®3, Xbox 360, PC-DVD, PlayStation®2, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) and Nintendo DS in the Autumn. As befits a game endorsed by two of the leading talents of the modern game, PES 2008 represents a massive step forward for the Pro Evolution Soccer series and includes the advent of the new Teamvision AI system.    

Teamvision actively monitors the player’s onscreen movements and adapts its response, forcing the player to constantly revise and alter their strategy during the course of a match. PES 2008 also boasts stunning attention to visual detail with the faces of players animated and shirts creasing during a match. The new game also includes extensive Edit modes in all Next Generation versions, and closer control than ever before.    

“Securing Michael Owen is a real coup for Konami," commented Jon Murphy, Pro Evolution Soccer Team Leader for Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH. “Since he burst on to the scene, he has proven himself an incredible goal-scorer, netting at every level both domestic and international. We are delighted to be working alongside such a talent on PES 2008."    

“PES 2008 is a fantastic game, and the only choice for pro players," added Michael Owen. “It enjoys a brilliant reputation within many, many players and manages to be a true simulation of football while also being a real laugh to play. I look forward to working closely with Konami in the run up to launch, and being a key part of its development."    

PES 2008 will be released for PLAYSTATION®3, Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable), PC-DVD and Nintendo DS in Autumn.

[It's friday and two new virtual console games came out in Europe.]

46

TalkBack / Today's European Virtual Console Releases

« on: June 28, 2007, 10:59:24 PM »

It's friday and two new virtual console games came out in Europe.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=13727

 KIRBY ADDS HIS UNIQUE TWIST TO ONE OF THE WORLD'S BEST KNOWN SPORTS    

29th June, 2007- This week Virtual Console has gone a little pink as iconic Nintendo hero Kirby pops onto Wii in the quirky golf title Kirby’s Dream Course™. Gone are the peaceful greens that golf fans normally know; in their place are devious obstacles, traps and enemies. In this 1995 Super Nintendo classic, Kirby assumes the role of the ball, soaring through the air and rolling across the courses. Players must use our pink hero and his special powers to smash enemies out of the way around 64 colourful courses before sinking himself to complete each hole. Kirby’s Dream Course ™ is available now for 800 Wii Points.    

Also available this week is the 1990 Turbografx action title Bloody Wolf™. Players assume the role of a special-forces commando as they go deep behind enemy lines to rescue the kidnapped President. With eight scenes to overcome, including one not featured in the arcade game each with its own challenging boss, this title will really put your skills to the test. Bloody Wolf™ is available now for 600 Wii Points.    

These great games join the list of over 103 classic titles already available for the Virtual Console in Europe.

[The bubble burst.]

47

TalkBack / REVIEWS: Bust-A-Move Bash!

« on: June 28, 2007, 10:33:20 PM »

The bubble burst.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/reviewArt.cfm?artid=13726

 The original Bust-a-Move came out in 1994. Bust-a-Move Bash is a remake of that game without any new worthwhile features except for a new control scheme that makes use of the Wii remote.  This implementation, while successful, isn’t enough to warrant a forty-dollar price tag.    

The shortcomings would have been easier to tolerate, had Bust-a-Move been a fantastic puzzle game to begin with. Sadly, the basic gameplay mechanics are starting to show their age. As always, you must shoot bubbles from the bottom of the screen to similarly colored bubbles at the top. Once three or more bubbles with the same color are grouped, they burst, and once all bubbles disappear, you proceed to the next level. If a bubble reaches the bottom of the playing field, you lose. Those are the basic rules. As with any puzzle game, this high degree of simplicity is a double-edged sword. The fact that the game is so easy to understand and only requires very basic perception, reaction, and aiming skills means that even inexperienced gamers can immediately jump into the game. On the other hand, Bust-a-Move isn’t nearly as deep or strategically demanding as, say, Tetris, Tetris Attack, or Lumines, and, as a result, it doesn’t come close to matching the longevity and satisfaction levels provided by those games. Boredom ensues more quickly in Bust-a-Move.    

In Bash, a bunch of interesting new content would have helped, but there’s little to find. Apart from the standard Puzzle and Endless modes, you just get Shooting and Versus, both of which contain serious flaws.    

Shooting doesn’t really have anything to do with the core concept of Bust-a-Move. Akin to Duck Hunt, you use the Wii remote as a gun in order to shoot down bubbles. As a twist, you have to switch the color of your reticule so that it matches the color of the bubble you want to shoot. Still, this mode is extremely simple and doesn’t do anything creative with either the Wii remote or the core Bust-a-Move gameplay mechanics.    

The Versus mode sounds great on paper, as it supports up to eight players simultaneously. Four of them can use the Wii remote, and the other four use either classic or nunchuk controllers attached to the other players’ Wii remotes. Furthermore, bots can be used to replace human players if needed. The whole setup is both unique and commendable. Unfortunately, Bash lends itself very poorly to matches with more than three players. The onscreen action then develops into a confusing mess, in which crazy power-up-carrying UFO’s zoom by, bubble-shattering bomb-bubbles get triggered incessantly, and entirely new bubbles suddenly appear without warning. It’s like watching a colorful firework of shiny bubbles constantly exploding and spawning. You’ll often notice that, from the moment you launch your bubble to the moment it reaches its destination, the playing field has been altered so dramatically and unpredictably, that you might as well rely on quick accidental shots instead. Any sense of skill goes largely unrewarded, while mindlessly shooting out as many bubbles as possible is bound to set off something that is point-generating. There is no serious punishment for employing this cheap tactic, as you can’t die from not hitting your targets.    

What prevents Bash from complete failure are the controls, which make great use of the Wii remote. You can choose to hold it upright – baton-style – and then tilt it to aim. However, this method is neither precise nor quick enough in intense situations. Instead, aiming your Wii remote like a gun is preferable. You get a reticule that moves fully in line with your movements, and it’s fast and responsive, making you feel completely in control. This fact becomes particularly apparent when comparing these aiming controls to the classic or nunchuk controls. While the classic controller works predictably decently, the nunchuk only supports the inferior baton style. Support for these two controllers is only available in multiplayer, where they provide a slightly unfair disadvantage to the players wielding them.    

All in all, the $40 price point of Bust-a-Move Bash boggles the mind. Based on a thirteen-year-old puzzle game, Bash lacks depth, has very little content, and presents a seriously flawed multiplayer mode. When adding to that a bland presentation and extremely repetitive music, you get a package certainly not worth investing in. Not even great controls can save the game. They can only soften its fall.

Pros:
       

Precise Wii remote controls

 

Eight-player support

       Cons:
       

Imprecise nunchuk controls

 

Overly chaotic multiplayer

 

Very little content

 

Boring presentation

 

Monotonous music

               Graphics:  4.0
       The developers clearly strived for a functional graphical presentation with Bash, and they succeeded. The game also retains the series’ simple and colorful art style, which isn’t aesthetically pleasing but gets the job done.

               Sound:  3.0
       Like most puzzle games, the tunes, of which there are very few, sound cute and cheery. Unfortunately, they are so short that they have to loop far too often, thus becoming irritating within minutes.

               Control:  7.5
       The Wii remote controls really do enhance the experience. Launching bubbles becomes easier, quicker, and more precise. In multiplayer, some players may be forced to use either the classic controller, which works decently, or the nunchuk, which works considerably worse.

                      Gameplay:  3.0
       The basic gameplay idea, though still respectable, is starting to show its age. Even the enhanced Wii remote controls can’t disguise that fact. The other modes are significantly less compelling. Multiplayer develops into a chaotic mess, and the Shooting mode makes even the mini-games in Wii Play look sophisticated by comparison.

 

       Lastability:  2.5
       Apart from the standard modes, Bash has very little content. When the game actually tries to do something new and fresh, it fails miserably.

 

       Final:  3.5
       Despite all the evidence of low production values, Bash costs forty dollars. Don’t buy it!      

[Play as weirdly named creatures such as Gumpers, Dinko, and Swanky on 14th September.]

48

TalkBack / Pet Alien Comes to Europe

« on: June 28, 2007, 07:30:21 AM »

Play as weirdly named creatures such as Gumpers, Dinko, and Swanky on 14th September.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=13722

 RESCUE TOMMY IN THE CRAZIEST ALIEN ADVENTURE THIS YEAR    

Pet Alien - Nick Toons' sensational CGI animated comedy lands on Nintendo DS from 14th September    

Chertsey, United Kingdom – June 28 2007: Prepare yourselves for an alien invasion! The Game Factory today announce that Pet Alien - exclusive to Nintendo DS - will be taking over shelves across the UK from 14th September 2007.    

Featuring both a humorous storyline and addictive puzzle gameplay, Pet Alien is based on the hit CGI-animated children’s comedy series currently airing weekdays at 4pm on NickToons. Fans already tuning in and chuckling out will be pleased to hear they can now take part in their favourite inter-galactic gang’s latest adventures on the Nintendo DS.    

Just like the show the game chronicles a pre-adolescent Earthling named Tommy Cadle, whose life is turned upside down after the arrival of his new alien friends, Gumpers, Dinko, Swanky, Flip and Scruffy. When Tommy is kidnapped by the evil Robotix, Gumpers and friends have to battle through space using their unique alien agility, brains, brawn and speed to rescue their human friend.    

In a global publishing deal between The Game Factory, Taffy Entertainment and games studio SHIN’EN, the creators have developed a new 3D Nintendo DS technology to meticulously bring to life Pet Alien’s uniquely combined look of ‘squash and stretch’ 3D CGI and 2D animated aesthetics – all in the palm of your hand.    

The Pet Alien game will see fans:    

  • Playing 5 aliens in over 80 levels set inside a giant robotic spaceship    

• Using the unique abilities of all five Pet Aliens to fight and puzzle to win Tommy’s rescue!    

  • Exploring in four different themed environments on the gigantic robotic spaceship: Commando Bridge, Hangar, Laboratory and Engine Room.    

• Enjoying fully 3D, tilted top-down gaming    

• Conquering five challenging bosses: A frantic frog, a buggy bug, a farting turtle, an aimless spider and finally a Spanish fly on wheels.    

• Taking on 5 stylus-driven mini-games    

• Playing in adventure and Bonus modes containing an unlockable Jukebox and Photo Gallery    

  “We’re excited to add Pet Alien, an out-of-this-world property, to our gaming product line" said Henrik Mathiasen, President for The Game Factory. “Just as we have done with all our global properties we look forward to adapting the series’ signature style and humour into a multi-layered game that will entertain players of all ages"    

“The Game Factory is the perfect partner for an irreverent show like ‘Pet Alien’, explains Cynthia Money, President, Worldwide Consumer Products and Marketing for Taffy Entertainment. “Their incredible creativity and sense of fun will translate into a video game that engages both fans of the show and gamers of all ages with exciting new worlds and interactions with Tommy and his alien friends."    

Created by Jeff Muncy of John Doze Studios, the “Pet Alien" animated series is produced by Mike Young Productions LLC, in conjunction with Moonscoop, Telegael, KI.KA, ARD and Europool Germany.    

Pet Alien is published by The Game Factory and is available exclusively on Nintendo DS in the UK from 14th September 2007.

[A comedy show and a lot of Wii multiplayer gaming are planned for this event, which takes place in Santa Monica this Friday.]

49

TalkBack / Overtime and Nintendo Throw Wii Party

« on: June 20, 2007, 02:53:42 AM »

A comedy show and a lot of Wii multiplayer gaming are planned for this event, which takes place in Santa Monica this Friday.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=13666

 Internet Comedy Group Teams With Popular Game Blog For Awesome Wii Party    

SANTA MONICA, CA – Overtime (http://www.overtimecomedy.com), the comedy troupe behind the hit video series "Mario In MySpace," and Siliconera (http://www.siliconera.com), the blog with the latest and greatest info on Japanese import games, are teaming up to throw a Nintendo Wii party and comedy show at the Westside Eclectic Theater in Santa Monica this Friday (June 22nd).    

First at 9 pm, Overtime will perform a half-hour comedy show featuring Nintendo cartoons and world-premiere video shorts. Then at 9:30, they're turning the Eclectic's big screen into a Wii-lover's paradise, where party-goers can play awesome American Wii games, retro games, and Japanese import games making their USA debuts! There will also be free food and plenty of fun.    

“Combining things often leads to trouble," says Geoffrey Golden, Overtime writer and co-founder. “However, we're taking a chance and combining a comedy show with a gigantic party where anyone can play Nintendo Wii on a humongous screen. Then we're gonna combine that with free food. It's a gamble, but no one thought peanut butter and jelly would work out, and I ate that kind of sandwich this afternoon."    

Overtime is updating their website with hilarious viral shorts, like "Lack Of Social Awareness Mega Man" and "The Legend of Zelda’s Relationships," every Monday morning. The troupe is bringing brand new videos to this half-hour sketch comedy show, which they'll follow with a video game party! Games will include Wii Sports, Super Monkey Ball, Street Fighter II, Mario Kart 64, and rare Japanese Wii games courtesy of Siliconera, including Bleach Wii: Hakujin Kirameku Rondo, Naruto Shippuden: Geiktou Ninja Taisen EX, and more!    

Tickets are $5. The Westside Eclectic is located at 1323-A 3rd St. Promenade, in the alley between 3rd and 4th St one block north of Santa Monica Blvd.    

Overtime is an internet comedy troupe that produces videos and a daily blog themed around the 80’s and 90’s. Their videos have been viewed millions of times across the world, and they’ve been given glowing write-ups on popular blogs like Kotaku and Best Week Ever.    

Siliconera is a premiere blog for the latest information on video games, both American and Japanese, as well as anime news and video sneak peaks at the most anticipated new games.

[And the winner is... Good Vs. Wiivil.]

50

TalkBack / Wiiner of Nintendo Film Festival Announced

« on: June 20, 2007, 01:02:19 AM »

And the winner is... Good Vs. Wiivil.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=13665

 Good Vs. Wiivil Wins Inaugural Nintendo Film Festival    

New York Filmmaker Wins $10,000 Prize, Festival Screening at Top of the Rock at the Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center    

REDMOND, Wash., June 19, 2007 - A film depicting Wii™ at the center of a cosmic battle between benevolent and malevolent forces earned top honors at the inaugural Nintendo Short Cuts Showcase. The open-call competition invited aspiring filmmakers to flex their creative skills by creating a three-to-five-minute Nintendo-themed video or film. New York-based filmmaker Jack Paccione Jr. wowed festival judges with his short featuring a hapless ice cream shop worker whose actions are controlled by dueling Wii Remotes™.    

The 10 finalists can be viewed at www.nintendoshortcuts.com, where visitors continue to vote for their favorites. Each of the nearly 200 Nintendo Short Cuts entries from across the nation was judged on its originality, creativity and uniqueness. Filmmakers were required only to make their entries Nintendo-themed in some way. Clips included everything from mockumentaries and love stories to animated tributes and wild live-action parodies.    

"The enthusiastic response to the Short Cuts Showcase proves that users' love for Nintendo characters and culture extends far beyond their game systems," says Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime, who served as a contest judge. "Fostering creativity has always been a huge part of the Nintendo experience. Nintendo fans are some of the most passionate and imaginative people on the planet, so it was no surprise to see such a wealth of inspired submissions."    

Additional judges included David Kwok, senior program director for the Tribeca Film Festival, and Lew Harris, editorial director of Movies.com.    

"There was a great pool of finalists," Kwok says. "It's amazing to see people be so creative in such a short period of time. It shows in the work that the filmmakers had a fun time making them as well and I'm sure visitors to the Tribeca Drive-In Short Film Series at Top of the Rock will enjoy them as much as I did."    

"I was impressed not just by the quality of the films but also by the different ways the participants chose to represent the games themselves, from film noir to Zelda re-created with humans," Harris said. "A tremendous amount of originality."    

As the best of the bunch, Good vs. Wiivil will be screened along with the second- and third-place winners as part of the Tribeca Drive-In™ Short Film Series at Top of the Rock™, at the Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center. Director Paccione also will receive a $10,000 cash prize toward his next film, a Wii system, a Nintendo DS™ Lite and Nintendo games. Paccione also receives a "power lunch" with Tribeca Film Festival co-founder Craig Hatkoff.    

Runners-up in the competition included Second Prize winner Marc Duddleson of Monroe, N.C., whose animated Koopa Force short sets the stage for an epic Mario™-based battle in the form of a movie trailer. Christopher Preksta of Pittsburgh took Third Prize for The Nintendo Office, incorporating a host of classic Nintendo characters into what life might be like at Nintendo HQ. Both Duddleson and Preksta will be awarded a Wii and a Wii game. Seven additional finalists will receive a Nintendo DS Lite and a DS game. They are:    

      * The Blue Light Zone: Eye of the Mii-holder by Will D'Angelo of Las Vegas    

      * The Legend of Zelda: The Missing Link by Eric Esteb of Seattle    

      * The Killing of a No Good Goomba by Cole Evans of Austin, Texas    

      * Pretendo by Joshua Mills of Jamestown, N.C.    

      * All My Systems by Lee Terwilliger of Lackawanna, N.Y.    

      * Nintendo News Network by Adam Stackhouse of Williamsburg, Va.    

      * The Last Wii by Sean Schleifer of Sterling, Va.