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[Taito fans will be happy to hear that many of the company's most popular franchises, including Rainbow Islands, Space Invaders, Bust-A-Move, and Arkanoid, are heading to DS and WiWare with brand new features and stages.]

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TalkBack / Taito Announces Five Games for North America

« on: May 28, 2009, 02:05:51 PM »

Taito fans will be happy to hear that many of the company's most popular franchises, including Rainbow Islands, Space Invaders, Bust-A-Move, and Arkanoid, are heading to DS and WiWare with brand new features and stages.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18571

 Yesterday, Taito announced that Arkanoid Plus!, Bust-A-Move Plus!, and Rainbow Islands: Towering Adventure! are heading to WiiWare. In addition, the company finally announced that the DS games, Space Bust-A-Move and Space Invaders Extreme 2, will be released in North America.    

Arkanoid Plus! is the newest entry in the classic brick-breaking series. Players will need to use the paddle at the bottom of the screen to bounce a ball at the colored rectangles above. A slew of power-ups, such as lasers, can be used to help eliminate both the blocks and the evil Moai-shaped boss, DOH. A new twist on the classic Arkanoid formula is the existence of an Energy Ball that sits amongst the blocks and must not be allowed to drop. There will also be a multiplayer mode available when the game is released this summer.    

Rainbow Islands: Towering Adventure! is an all-new sequel to the original arcade Rainbow Islands, which itself was a sequel to Bubble Bobble. The new game will continue the adventures of Bubby and Bobby as they try to make Holly's Comet bring their dreams to reality. Players will harness the protagonist's rainbow-producing magic to help them scale platforms and defeat enemies. The game is scheduled to be released on June 15.    

Puzzle game fanatics will find a lot to their liking in Bust-A-Move Plus! for WiiWare and Space Bust-A-Move for the DS. Both feature the bubble-popping action that the series is known for. Shooting colored bubbles with the trusty cannon is the main way to complete stages. Space Bust-A-Move features enhanced graphics, customization options, local wireless play, mini-games, and battles with space-faring bosses. On the other hand, Bust-A-Move Plus! will include 135 brand new levels and have over 270 levels from previous entries in the series available for download. The release date for Space Bust-A-Move is July 28 and Bust-A-Move Plus! arrives this summer.    

Last but not least is Space Invaders Extreme 2, which features even more of the frantic shooting action that made the original so popular. Just like in the arcade original, players must shoot every alien ship on the screen if they wish to keep playing. The sequel will have an overhauled battle system, a time attack mode, and online play.  Expect Space Invaders Extreme 2 to be in stores this fall.    

From BUBBLE BOBBLE to Space Invaders Extreme 2, Six Classic TAITO Titles Announced for Nintendo Platforms    

TAITO Delivers Fan-Favorites to Nintendo DS and WiiWare This Summer and Beyond    

LOS ANGELES, May 27 /PRNewswire/ -- TAITO Corporation (TAITO(R)), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd., announced today that it is bringing six addictively fun, classic titles to Nintendo's WiiWare(TM) service and Nintendo DS(TM) in the coming months. These all-new sequels and revamps of fan-favorites will provide endless fun for the entire family this summer and beyond.    

Launching first is BUBBLE BOBBLE Plus! for WiiWare, now available for download. The hit arcade game BUBBLE BOBBLE(R) has been adapted for home and handheld consoles alike since its 1986 release, but now for the first time the game offers a four-person multiplayer mode and a global ranking system with BUBBLE BOBBLE Plus!.    

In addition, TAITO will be releasing BUST-A-MOVE(R) Plus!, Rainbow Islands(TM): Towering Adventure!(TM) and ARKANOID(R) Plus! for WiiWare. With a total of 135 all-new stages and a two-person multiplayer mode, BUST-A-MOVE Plus! provides non-stop bubble-popping entertainment, while Rainbow Islands: Towering Adventure! invites players to continue the adventures of Bubby and Bobby as they use Rainbow Magic to climb the tower through exciting new vertical stages. ARKANOID Plus! is the newest addition to the ARKANOID legacy and more addictive than ever before. An old-school classic with a new and colorful twist, players can even test their ARKANOID Plus! mastery against others via the two-player battle and co-op modes.    

TAITO will also be offering two new releases for Nintendo DS: SPACE BUST-A-MOVE and Space Invaders Extreme(TM) 2. SPACE BUST-A-MOVE is a new adventure for iconic heroes Bub and Bob, who battle intergalactic bosses in order to save the galaxy. The game offers improved graphics, customization options, intense multiplayer competition and mini-games for an exhilarating puzzle-solving experience. Also set in outer space, Space Invaders Extreme 2 is a follow-up to the hugely popular SPACE INVADERS EXTREME released last year. A must-have follow-up for arcade fans everywhere, Space Invaders Extreme 2 offers an enhanced battle system, a challenging new time attack mode and an expanded gameplay progression that goes beyond Fever Time to SUPER FEVER TIME!    

Please see below for product details:    

WiiWare Releases    

    BUBBLE BOBBLE Plus!    

    Platform: Wii(TM)      Genre: Action      ESRB: E (Everyone)      Launch Date: Available Now    

Twin Bubble Dragons Bub and Bob reunite to journey through the Cave of Monsters to rescue their girlfriends. Push and burst bubbles while avoiding enemies in order to solve the mystery hidden in each round and defeat the final boss!    

The official website can be found at http://na.square-enix.com/bbp/.    

    BUST-A-MOVE Plus!    

    Platform: Wii      Genre: Puzzle      ESRB: E (Everyone)      Launch Date: Summer 2009    

Enjoy brilliant graphics and dazzling animations in BUST-A-MOVE Plus! Play in either Puzzle Mode or Battle Mode and experience the exhilaration of shooting and eliminating shimmering bubbles through 135 all-new levels that span six distinctly different planetary environments. Download a total of 270 additional levels from BUST-A-MOVE 2, Super BUST-A-MOVE and BUST-A-MOVE 3.    

    Rainbow Islands: Towering Adventure!    

    Platform: Wii      Genre: Action/Adventure      ESRB: E (Everyone)      Launch Date: June 15, 2009    

A sequel to the instant classic from the 80s, Rainbow Islands: Towering Adventure! is a much-awaited update for the 21st century. Help brothers Bubby and Bobby use their Rainbow Magic to scale the tower and have Holly's Comet grant their wishes!    

The official website can be found at http://www.rainbowislandsadventure.com/    

    ARKANOID Plus!    

    Platform: Wii      Genre: Arcade Puzzle      ESRB: Not Yet Rated      Launch Date: Summer 2009    

A simple game that's anything but boring, players must use the VAUS to break all the walls on each level while preventing the Energy Ball from falling. Clearing all the levels without missing the Energy Ball is easier said than done! Now with single and multiplayer modes, ARKANOID Plus! offers hours of engrossing gameplay.  Nintendo DS Releases    

    SPACE BUST-A-MOVE    

    Platform: Nintendo DS      Genre: Puzzle      ESRB: E (Everyone)      Ship Date: July 28, 2009    

The smash-hit classic arcade game goes where no bubble has gone before in SPACE BUST-A-MOVE. Journey alongside twin brothers Bub and Bob, travelling to distant planets collecting Cosmo Bubbles in order to stop the evil Devilin from taking over the galaxy.    

The official website can be found at http://www.spacebustamove.com/    

      SPACE INVADERS EXTREME 2    

    Platform: Nintendo DS      Genre: Arcade Shooter      ESRB: Not Yet Rated      Ship Date: Fall 2009    

Shoot, attack and stave off the assault by defeating all the Invaders on the screen. After annihilating a battalion of Invaders and defeating the Boss, players move on to the next stage. But it's "Game Over" if players lose all of their stock cannons!

[A ton of new information about Guitar Hero 5 was recently unveiled including the release date, names of many of the musicians providing songs, and the ability to play a single song with four different drum sets simultaneously.]

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TalkBack / Guitar Hero 5 Arrives in September

« on: May 28, 2009, 01:45:58 PM »

A ton of new information about Guitar Hero 5 was recently unveiled including the release date, names of many of the musicians providing songs, and the ability to play a single song with four different drum sets simultaneously.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18570

 Activision revealed on the Guitar Hero 5 official website that the upcoming rhythm game is debuting on September 1, which is about a week before MTV Games and Harmonix's The Beatles: Rock Band. The site also provided new information on the gameplay and some of the 85 bands participating.    

One of the cool new features in the upcoming game is that players can use any possible combination of instruments when playing songs. That means if multiple people want to sing or play the drums at the same time, they have that option. In addition, if the bass guitarist has to leave abrutly, they can easily drop out of the game without stopping the action.    

Here is a list of the known songs and musicians in the upcoming Guitar Hero sequel compiled from Shacknews, Yahoo Music, IGN, and Gamespot:    

 
• Johnny Cash - "Ring of Fire"
 
• Stevie Wonder - "Superstition"
 
• Kings of Leon - "Sex on Fire"
 
• Bob Dylan - "All Along the Watchtower"
 
• Santana - "No One To Depend On (Live)"
 
• The Rolling Stones - "Sympathy for the Devil"
 
• The White Stripes - "Blue Orchid"
 
• Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers - "Runnin' Down a Dream"
 
• Vampire Weekend - "A-Punk"
 
• Beastie Boys
 
• Coldplay
 
• Bush
 
• Smashing Pumpkins
 
• David Bowie
 
• Mötley Crüe
 
• Attack! Attack!
 
• Dire Straits
 
• The Derek Trucks Band
 
• Sublime
 
• Darkest Hour
 
• Iron Maiden
 
• KISS
 
• Wild Cherry
 
• Muse
 
• Band of Horses
 
• The Raconteurs
 
• Blink-182
 
• Blur
 
• Duran Duran
 
• Gorillaz
 
• Jimmy Eat World
 

[Sonic and friends return to the racing genre in a new game that features online play, and special power-ups and weapons.]

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TalkBack / Sega Announces Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing

« on: May 28, 2009, 01:33:22 PM »

Sonic and friends return to the racing genre in a new game that features online play, and special power-ups and weapons.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18569

 Sonic the Hedgehog is no stranger to racing games, having appeared in Sonic R on the Saturn and the Sonic Riders series. Today, Sega revealed that Sonic is ready to race again in the new game, Sonic & SEGA All-Star Racing, which is slated to appear on all major platforms including Wii and DS.      

A lot of familiar faces will be appearing in the title, including Amigo, Super Monkey Ball's AiAi, Tails, and Dr. Robotnik. Each selectable character will have a custom vehicle that can be anything from a banana mobile to an airplane. Players will need to look out for hidden shortcuts, and carefully use weapons and power-ups to be the first across the finish line.    

To help players who are trailing far behind, the game will feature All-Star Moves like Banana Blitz, Tails Tornado, and Super Sonic. In addition, multiplayer action can be had in either the eight player online mode or at home with four player split-screen mayhem.    

It is currently unknown if the game is being developed internally at Sega, or by a company like Sumo Digital, who worked on Sega Superstars Tennis and the home ports of the OutRun series.    

Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing is scheduled for release in 2010. A new trailer is embedded below:  

   

   

Announcing Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing    

EVERYBODY’S Super Sonic Racing… or they soon will be.  We’ve just announced a new title coming to PS3, 360, Wii and DS in 2010 - Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing.    

In a frantic battle to the chequered flag, Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing sees Sonic and friends speed around tracks set in mediaeval castle ramparts, lush rainforests and bustling cities, all taken from the visually rich and varied universes of Sonic and SEGA. Fan favourites such as Dr. Eggman, Tails, AiAi, Amigo and many more will join Sonic in their custom built vehicles, revving their engines and jostling to stay ahead of the pack. Each character will race around the track in cars, planes, motorbikes, and in AiAi’s case - a banana mobile! Secret short cuts, swift handling and avoiding strategically placed obstacles are certainly the best way to get to the top of the podium.    

"Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing is no ordinary racing game. Its huge variety of characters and vehicles, plus the ability to play both online and off set it apart from other games of this type" commented Gary Knight European Marketing Director, SEGA Europe Ltd. "The team have pushed the boundaries on what you would normally expect and created a different and unique party racing title whereby you really can’t take anything for granted!"    

And winning is only part of the fun in Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing! Each character has a specific All Star move such as Super Sonic, Banana Blitz and Tails Tornado, allowing a quick way for competitors to get back into the race! Power ups and weapons can also be collected around the tracks and used against the opposition to ensure they don’t become a threat to that number one position… Players can battle it out in single or multiplayer mode, allowing up to four friends to race in frantic split-screen action, or up to eight players to compete online in the ultimate racing showdown.

[The Conduit developers are working on a Left 4 Dead and horror film-inspired online cooperative first person shooter.]

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TalkBack / High Voltage Software Announces The Grinder for Wii

« on: May 27, 2009, 12:02:19 PM »

The Conduit developers are working on a Left 4 Dead and horror film-inspired online cooperative first person shooter.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18553

 Earlier this week, High Voltage Software unveiled a brutal fighting game called http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18534> Gladiator A.D. Last night, they revealed their other major Wii project, The Grinder.    

The Grinder is a cooperative first person shooter where a team of four people fight hordes of enemies, similar to the popular game Left 4 Dead. Instead of solely zombies, The Grinder will feature several different types of monsters, most notably, vampires, werewolves, undead, and slashers. Because the origin of these creatures is unknown, players will be tasked with determining what caused this major outbreak of monsters.    

Like Left 4 Dead, there are four different characters with diverse backgrounds. Doc is an underground doctor that is interested in how the monsters function. Hector is a greedy and arrogant bounty hunter. AJ is an urban explorer looking for revenge after surviving a slasher attack. The final character, Miko, is a Japanese assassin. After encountering and killing a werewolf, she seeks more thrill and danger; something her assassin job was no longer providing.    

The Grinder is intended to be a very violent game featuring a variety of weapons. More traditional guns will be present, such as the .45, an SMG, the AK-47, as well as the pump-action, 12-gauge shotgun. Other more non-traditional weapons will be present, but those have yet to be revealed.    

Movies such as From Dusk Till Dawn and John Carpenter's Vampires inspired High Voltage's weapon choices. Dead Alive and Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2 apparently also had an impact on the title. According to High Voltage, the blood and gore level sits somewhere between the two.     Industrial bands such as Skinny Puppy and Coil have helped inspire some of the ambient music for the game. According to High Voltage, the music helps create a tense and ominous mood. Upon arrival of a wave of enemies, more frenzied high-paced music will be featured.    

As mentioned earlier, the game's centerpiece is its online cooperative mode, which will be shown at E3. High Voltage intends on including Wii Speak functionality, leaderboards, and their own version of an achievement system. For those without online access, the game will feature local split-screen co-op. The game can also be played through by a single player. The rest of your team will be controlled by AI, with the ability for human players to enter or leave the game at any time.    

The game will feature multiple branching paths in each of the stages, giving the game a unique feel with each different path taken. Like in Left 4 Dead, the game will also have a scaling AI system that adjusts according to player performance. The game can control which enemies will spawn, the number of each enemy type, and each location they will spawn from.    

Like The Conduit, The Grinder will also feature fully customizable controls. High Voltage also intends to gauge players' typical set up in order to provide the best possible standard control scheme.    

In the testing phases of the game, High Voltage boasted that they were able to instance 65 highly detailed enemies on the screen without adverse effects on the framerate. This is accomplished through use of the Quantum3 Engine and another new technology. the Imposter and Instancing system.    

According to HVS, with the Imposter and Instancing system, "[they] are able to take a single enemy and replicate him over and over again." Furthermore, "[they] can also scale, color, and otherwise modify each instance … allow[ing] [them] to get an unprecedented number of unique enemies on screen at once at a fraction of the cost to do it otherwise."    

The Grinder is currently slated for a holiday 2010 release, but still has no publisher.

[A crazy new platformer that features five distinct worlds, music from the composer of Earthworm Jim, and world-rotating high jinks.]

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TalkBack / Majesco Unveils Flip's Twisted World

« on: May 27, 2009, 03:48:16 AM »

A crazy new platformer that features five distinct worlds, music from the composer of Earthworm Jim, and world-rotating high jinks.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18551

 Majesco recently announcedFlip's Twisted World, a new platformer developed by Canada's Frozen North Productions. In the game, players will need to rotate the game environment in order to solve puzzles and open up new pathways.    

The game stars Flip, a wizard's apprentice who mistakenly transports himself to a strange cubed world. Players will traverse through five unique puzzle lands littered with castles and lava as they try to keep the universe from imploding. A single twist of the Wii Remote will rotate an entire environment by 90 degrees, making previously insurmountable areas easily accessible.    

Over the course of the adventure, Flip will discover five magical tools to aid him as well as encounter a variety of other characters that may bear gifts or lead him astray. Alongside the main game, there will also be side quests filled with unlockable treats.    

Majesco Vice President Gui Karyo enthusiastically states that "Flip's Twisted World offers a truly innovative take on the traditional platform game by sidestepping conventional design in favor of a three-dimensional, perspective-altering approach."    

The game also features music from Tommy Tallarico, the well-known composer of games like MDK and Advent Rising and co-creator of Video Games Live.    

Flip's Twisted World is scheduled to be released in January 2010 and will be at E3 next week. A trailer for the game is embedded below.      

   

   

Majesco Entertainment Announces 'Flip's Twisted World' Exclusively for Wii    

New Puzzle Platformer Traps Players In A World Where Nothing Is As It Seems    

EDISON, N.J., May 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Majesco Entertainment Company (NASDAQ: COOL) , an innovative provider of video games for the mass market, today announced Flip's Twisted World exclusively for Wii(TM). This unique puzzle platformer places the world literally in the palm of players' hands as they navigate topsy-turvy worlds where up and down, and left and right are only a matter of perspective. Developed by Frozen North Productions, Flip's Twisted World is expected to launch in January 2010.    

"Flip's Twisted World offers a truly innovative take on the traditional platform game by sidestepping conventional design in favor of a three-dimensional, perspective-altering approach," said Gui Karyo, Executive Vice President of Operations for Majesco. "With a charismatic main character, fantastic puzzle landscapes and a unique gameplay mechanic, Flip's gives platform game fans something to look forward to in the new year."    

In Flip's Twisted World, Master Fulcrum's curious apprentice Flip messes with the wrong magic artifact and gets sucked into a crazy cubed universe. To escape his cube prison, Flip must turn the entire world to reveal new paths and endless possibilities. Adventuring through five bizarre puzzle worlds, Flip must stop the destruction of the universe and restore The Master's home to normal before he returns!    

Players help Flip navigate his world by rotating the environment 90 degrees in any direction with a simple twist of the Wii Remote(TM). Pits become passages and obstacles transform into openings once players change their point of view. As Flip progresses through the game he'll meet many unique characters - some helpful, others hurtful - and collect five magic tools to aid his journey home. Optional side quests let players unlock bonus goodies and alternate costumes, while finding pieces of the Master's lost journal reveals secrets of the magic universe's past.    

Flip's Twisted World features original music from prolific video game composer Tommy Tallarico, who has scored over 250 games and won numerous international awards for his work.    

Flip's Twisted World is expected to release in January 2010. A playable demo will be available in Majesco's meeting room #514 at the E3 2009 Expo at the LA Convention Center from June 2nd through 4th. To watch the trailer and find out more, please visit www.FlipsTwistedWorld.com.

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TalkBack / Is 5th Cell still working on the new Drawn to Life games?

« on: May 27, 2009, 01:42:58 AM »

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/blogArt.cfm?artid=18549

  Earlier today, THQ announced new games in the Drawn to Life series on both Wii & DS, but strangely made no mention of the developers working on them.    

Interestingly, a poster on the NeoGaf forums named Jackson claims that he works for 5th Cell and that they are the developing the DS version of Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter. In addition, he claims that Planet Moon Studios, the developer of Giants: Citizen Kabuto and Battle of the Bands is working on the Wii version. Here is his posting:    

"DTL2 [Drawn to Life 2] DS is a completely new game from the ground up, trust me. It's pretty awesome. It's very different from the original we did. Tomorrow more news will drop on it.    

Planet Moon is making the Wii version."    

Either Jackson works for 5th Cell or he really likes pretending he does because there are posts from over six months ago where he writes what is supposedly insider knowledge.    

For example here is a quote from December 5th where he discusses one of the myriad of possibilities in Scribblenauts:    

"No adjectives. Just Objects. (minus copyright and vulgarity)    

Bear? Yes. Giant Flaming Bear? No.    

If you want to set a bear on fire, by writing torch and setting him on fire (assuming he doesn't eat you first), then yes."    

While there is far from conclusive evidence showing that 5th Cell is working on the DS version of the game, as long as Mr. Jackson isn't lying, the truth will be revealed very soon.

[While this will be the first game in the series on Wii, both versions of Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter will share the same colorful universe and the new Action Drawing tool that can be used to create useful objects out of thin air.]

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TalkBack / The Drawn to Life Adventure Continues on Wii & DS

« on: May 27, 2009, 01:29:55 AM »

While this will be the first game in the series on Wii, both versions of Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter will share the same colorful universe and the new Action Drawing tool that can be used to create useful objects out of thin air.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18548

 In February, THQ CEO Brian Farrell stated that the company wished to "extend [the Drawn to Life] brand to Wii in the future" because of the robust sales demonstrated by the original game.    

This dream became a reality today when THQ revealed that Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter will be released this fall on the Wii and DS. Players will once again be able to design their own hero and control them as they solve puzzles and conquer the forces of evil.    

A useful new item called the Action Drawing tool will let gamers use either the Wii Remote or the stylus to draw different objects to help complete their quest. Choosing the correct color to draw an object with will be important in the DS version because each color of the rainbow has different properties.    

The goal of the Wii version is to find the fabled Artifacts of Power and destroy an unknown enemy who has taken control of the Raposa village. There will be over 100 possible items to draw including many weapons and vehicles. The drawing tools will even be available while playing the multiplayer mini-games, which include basketball, soccer, and football.    

Likewise, the DS version will find the player's doodled hero on a quest to help bring color back to the Raposa people and defeat a bad guy named Wilfre. The collection of coins and color drops will unlock new challenges, quests, and abilities. In addition, it is possible to transform into things like a blob or a spider, which can drastically change the gameplay. Those interested in trading the unusual characters they've created with friends will be able to transfer them using the DS's local wireless capabilities.    

Both versions will be available this fall.    

Draw the Ultimate Hero with a Wii Remote Wave or a Swipe of the Stylus in Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter    

Popular Franchise Makes Its Wii Video Game Console Debut    

AGOURA HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) today announced the next addition to its incredibly successful Drawn to Life® franchise, Drawn to Life®: The Next Chapter is currently in development exclusively for Wii™ and Nintendo DS™. Featuring an innovative new action drawing feature and enhanced drawing tools, Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter will give players new creative tools and immerse them into new worlds they create and explore. The game is scheduled for release in fall 2009.    

"Drawn to Life continues to be tremendously successful because it delivers a creative experience unlike any other game out there. Gamers of all ages love drawing their hero and seeing all of their creations come to life in the game, making it their own unique experience," said Randy Shoemaker, vice president, global brand management. "Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter raises the creative bar with a totally new experience for both Wii and Nintendo DS fans alike."    

About Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter    

In Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter for Wii, players will draw their own heroes using the Wii Remote™ to find the Artifacts of Power and rid the Raposa village of an evil, shadowy figure that has taken over the land. Throughout the game, players will draw more than 100 unique items from robust drawing tools, such as vehicles, weapons and tools, to conquer their enemies. The all-new Action Drawing tool allows for objects to be drawn directly into the game to help navigate through several environments, including a sky world, a jungle and a shadow city. In addition, the game’s multi-player feature will allow players to draw their team members and equipment to compete against others in a variety of mini-games, such as soccer, hockey and basketball.    

In Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter for Nintendo DS, players will be able to draw their own heroes, be it humans, animals or multi-limbed creatures, and will embark on a brand new adventure aboard a Turtle Ship to defeat the evil Wilfre and restore color to the Raposa civilization. Players will have the ability to morph their hero into a blob or a spider, adding more gameplay and allowing for players to play each level a variety of different ways. The game’s Action Drawing Tool gives each color special properties when drawing objects into the game to help solve puzzles and progression through the game. Along the way, they will collect coins and color drops to unlock a variety of content, including challenges and quests, customization options and hero abilities. In addition, the game’s multi-player aspect allows players to trade heroes, weapons, items and accessories with friends.    

For more information, visit www.drawntolife.com.

[Last September's musical WiiWare title is getting a full-blown retail disc release with new features and content. There will also be an iPhone version.]

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TalkBack / Groovin' Blocks is going from WiiWare to Retail

« on: May 22, 2009, 06:41:23 PM »

Last September's musical WiiWare title is getting a full-blown retail disc release with new features and content. There will also be an iPhone version.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18495

 Zoo Publishing recently announced that Groovin' Blocks, a rhythm puzzle game that originally debuted on WiiWare, will be available for purchase in stores, later this year, in both Europe and North America. To entice owners of the WiiWare version, the retail release is slated to include all new levels and music.    

As in many popular puzzle titles, blocks will drop from the top of the screen and must be arranged in groups of the same color to be obliterated. The unique hook of Groovin’ Blocks is that bonus points and special items are awarded for dropping blocks in time with the musical beat. The publisher's CEO Mark Serement said, "Pounding rhythms beat out the tempo of each puzzle—like a pulse to each level—bringing whole new life to casual gaming." One can also expect the head-to-head and co-op modes of the original to make a return.    

All New Editions Of Groovin’ Blocks Keep The Beat    

Zoo Publishing, Inc. & Empty Clip Studios Partner on New Rhythmic Puzzle Games    

May 21, 2009 – New York, NY—This Summer you’ll be nodding your head to the next big thing in casual gaming as Zoo Publishing, Inc. and Empty Clip Studios combine music and rhythm with traditional puzzle gameplay in Groovin’ Blocks.  The successful WiiWare game is getting beefed up for an enhanced experience on Wii with all new levels, brand new songs, and more hours of puzzling play.  And for the first time, you’ll be able to take Groovin’ Blocks on-the-go with a whole new iPhone edition.    

Groovin’ Blocks brings a new twist to classic puzzle gameplay.  Players maneuver colorful blocks and drop them in like-colored clusters to clear the board.  But an original soundtrack with all new beats really drives the gameplay in Groovin’ Blocks.  Drop the blocks on the beats and play to the rhythm of the music for higher scores and bonuses—and really let the music take over!  It’s this simple addition—seamlessly integrating head-bobbing beats into each puzzle—that truly makes Groovin’ Blocks an addictive guilty pleasure.      

“Groovin’ Blocks really stands out as an entirely unique puzzle playing experience.  The way Empty Clip made music essential to the classic gameplay grabbed me right away, and we knew this would be a great fit for other gaming platforms,” says Mark Seremet, CEO of Zoo Publishing, Inc.  “Pounding rhythms beat out the tempo of each puzzle—like a pulse to each level—bringing whole new life to casual gaming.”    

“We are very excited to partner with Zoo to bring the extended versions of the unique musical game Groovin’ Blocks to different platforms,” says Matt Shores, Managing Partner at Empty Clip Studios.  “North America will get to see more music and levels on Wii while the European market will have access to the game for the first time.  And introducing it to the booming iPhone™ market will really give that audience a whole new puzzle experience.”    

Check out zoogamesinc.com for more information and screen shots, and get in the game!

[Sega's safari-themed arcade game returns in updated form.]

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TalkBack / Sega Unveils Jambo! Safari for Wii and DS

« on: May 20, 2009, 03:04:46 PM »

Sega's safari-themed arcade game returns in updated form.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18475

 Today, Sega announced that Jambo! Safari Animal Rescue will be arriving on the Wii and DS late this year. In 1999, Jambo! Safari was first released as an arcade title powered by the NAOMI arcade board, which is based on Dreamcast technology. Players will once again find themselves in the role of a safari park ranger who must rescue and care for animals, except this time with updated graphics and more depth than its arcade predecessor.    

Taking place in the lush African Plains, Jambo! Safari will throw players into a free-roaming world filled with missions to tackle such as helping animals, taking photographs, and traveling in hot air balloons. Customization options will be available for the four selectable park rangers and the vehicles, such as the Land Rover Defender.    

Each version of the game is being designed to harness the unique features of their respective system. Instead of using a lever to capture animals like in the arcade version, Wii owners will be able to lasso them by swinging the Wii Remote. The DS version will let players use the stylus to diagnose and treat the animals.    

In addition, there will be multiplayer modes in the Wii version where friends can work together to complete missions or race ostriches.    

In Europe, the game will be titled Ranger Adventure.    

  JOIN SEGA ON A JAMBO! SAFARI     SAN FRANCISCO & LONDON (May 20th, 2009) -- SEGA of America, Inc., and SEGA Europe Ltd., today announced Jambo! Safari Animal Rescue, an action packed African adventure exclusively for the Wii and Nintendo DS system.  Hitting stores late in 2009, Jambo! Safari Animal Rescue takes the fun and excitement of the classic 1990's arcade title and reinvents it with modern graphics and deeper gameplay.        

As with the original, the new Jambo! Safari allows you to play as one of four safari park rangers, but this time they are fully customizable.  With the ultimate goal of becoming a fully qualified ranger, players must take on high speed challenges and exciting rescue missions across the rich and varied free-roaming landscapes of the African Plains.  Using one of the four customizable vehicles, including the licensed Land Rover Defender 90 and 110, rangers will need to drive around and ensure the animals in their park are healthy and happy. Jambo! Safari Animal Rescue missions include rescuing animals in need, diagnosing and treating them before releasing them back to the wild, wildlife photography, sight seeing adventures and even hot air balloon rides!        

In the Wii version of game, Jambo! Safari Animal Rescue (known as Ranger Adventure in Europe), players will immerse themselves in a true safari experience by swinging the Wii Remote like a lasso and using the Wii Remote and Nunchuk to drive through the beautiful plains of Africa. Jambo! Safari Animal Rescue for Nintendo DS has been adapted to make full use of the stylus and dual screens while interacting and caring for the animals of the African Plains.      

"Jambo! Safari Animal Rescue lends itself perfectly to the Nintendo platforms with motion sensitive controls and touch screen capabilities that translate all the action from the arcade into an expanded game universe", commented Sean Ratcliffe, V.P. of Marketing SEGA of America. "Jambo! Safari Animal Rescue is the perfect combination of education and fun as players collect animal fact informational cards during the course of the game which can teach children all about their favourite animals."      

Alongside the single player adventure to become a ranger, Jambo! Safari Animal Rescue for Wii will also contain a co-op mode enabling players to share certain missions with a friend. Party games are also included which can be enjoyed by up to four people with a series of mini-games which include Ostrich Racing and Meerkat Madness among others.        

Jambo! Safari Animal Rescue will be released for the Wii and the Nintendo DS system late in 2009.

[Nintendo rates highly in survey which ranks how beloved companies are by the public.]

85

TalkBack / Consumers Rate Nintendo as One of the 'Most Reputable' Companies

« on: May 10, 2009, 12:09:15 AM »

Nintendo rates highly in survey which ranks how beloved companies are by the public.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18402

 Nintendo has long been respected and admired by its fans, but it appears that the public at large is beginning to hold the company in high esteem as well. During the months of January and February, the Reputation Institute conducted their Global Reputation Pulse 2009 survey, which placed Nintendo as the sixth most reputable company in the world.    

Not only did Nintendo rank higher on the list than its competitors like Sony (126th) and Microsoft (30th), the company was also listed well above PepsiCo (46th), Walt Disney (21st), Sunoco, and Caterpillar (25th). Ferrero SpA, the Italian firm well-known for their delectable chocolate, held the number one spot on the list.    

The survey's results were tabulated by conducting online interviews with over 70,000 people in 32 different countries. A corporation's place on the list was greatly determined by how much a consumer trusted and respected them.  Each company was ranked "based on perceptions in their home countries."

[Square Enix is bringing the newest games in two popular Taito franchises to Europe and Australia.]

86

TalkBack / Space Invaders Extreme 2 & Puzzle Bobble Galaxy Head to Europe

« on: May 09, 2009, 11:52:57 PM »

Square Enix is bringing the newest games in two popular Taito franchises to Europe and Australia.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18401

 Earlier this week Square Enix announced two DS games by Taito for release in PAL territories.    

Puzzle Bobble Galaxy (known as Bust-a-Move in North America) will feature more of the signature gameplay that the series is known for. Using the cannon at the bottom of the screen, players must shoot at the bubbles above and destroy them. The story will find the game's stars, Bub and Bob, on a crazy quest that sends them to alternate dimensions where they will meet up with old friends. New features include a shop to purchase items from, a mode where a stage must be completed with a single bubble, and 2-4 player online as well as local wireless play. Puzzle Bobble Galaxy will be available in PAL territories this summer.    

Space Invaders Extreme 2, the sequel to  last year's popular update to the classic arcade game is said to feature everything people loved from the first game along with more stages and power-ups. In addition, players can compete with a friend online, or try to get a high score in the new time attack mode. The sequel will arrive in Europe and Australia sometime this fall.    

Neither game has been announced for release in North America, though both have already seen release in Japan.    

TWO BRAND NEW ADVENTURES OUT OF THIS WORLD    

London (8th May 2009)– Square Enix Ltd., the publisher of Square Enix interactive entertainment products in Europe and other PAL territories, today announces two brand new releases from TAITO based on classic video game franchises. PUZZLE BOBBLE GALAXY will be released on Nintendo DS™ this summer, and SPACE INVADERS EXTREME 2 will be available on Nintendo DS in the autumn.    

PUZZLE BOBBLE GALAXY is a match-three arcade puzzle game starring the loveable Bub and Bob dinosaur brothers from the hugely popular Bubble Bobble game. Players will embark on a magnificent adventure set in space as they help battle against powerful enemies who are trying to rule the entire universe. True to the original classic, players will shoot balls from the cannon located at the bottom of the screen, matching colours with the gaggle of bubbles at the top. Patience and perseverance not included but, the rewards will be generous!    

SPACE INVADERS EXTREME 2 follows in the footsteps of last year’s critically acclaimed SPACE INVADERS EXTREME, which was regarded by many as the best remake of the original classic. This year the iconic Invaders are back again and this time the action is even more extreme! The game combines the essence of the original game with a stunning alliance of futuristic graphic design and cutting-edge audio, overhauled gameplay details, and a whole new range of amazing power-ups.    

PUZZLE BOBBLE GALAXY– the story    

An unmanned spaceship suddenly descends from the skies. Just for the fun of it, the brothers Bub and Bob board the ship and begin pushing buttons at random... Before they know it, the ship moves into action! Just then, a transmission comes over the ship's Comm. line --- A voice crying, "Help!"    

Unknown to Bub and Bob, several planets have“doors” in their vicinity that lead to an alternate dimension. These doors have been opening, releasing a flood of bubbles that turn into hazardous space-debris; causing problems for the planets’ inhabitants. Because Bub and Bob's planet is the only one that doesn't have debris, it was decided that a small spacecraft would be sent there to call for help. Bub and Bob learn that to close the doors leading to alternate dimensions, they have to use Cosmo Bubbles: high-energy concentrations that float around outer space. So they set off to an area where Debris Bubbles drift, for within their numbers…the Cosmo Bubbles lie hidden out of sight!    

The brothers get their hands on a Cosmo Bubble and arrive at a door that’s releasing Debris Bubbles… but lying in wait is a giant Boss protecting the passageway!    

PUZZLE BOBBLE GALAXY– key features    

   




• Enhanced Presentation - Even flashier Item Effects than the typical Puzzle Bobble that covers the screen as you enjoy gameplay without hindrance.
   




• Shops - Accumulate points in various modes, and use them to buy merchandise. Merchandise includes extra modes, sound test, staff roll bubbles&arrows
   




• Mini-games
   

   

Factory: A new mode you have to clear using a limited number of bubbles.    

Pressure: A new mode in which you only have one bubble to clear the stage.    

Puzzle: An addition to the normal puzzle.    

   




• World View Construction - Following the 20+ year history of Bub’s world, this release has cameos from familiar characters
 
• Wireless Battles - Heat things up with 2-4 player multi-play through Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection&DS Wireless Play connectivity.
 
• New Versus&Communications rules - Destroy and acquire special bubbles that appear in the top screen, then use them to torment your opponents with various Effects and give yourself the advantage!
   

   

SPACE INVADERS EXTREME 2– product overview and key features    

By combining the essence of the original game with a stunning alliance of futuristic graphic design and cutting-edge audio, overhauled gameplay details and a whole new range of amazing power-ups, the basic concept of the iconic SPACE INVADERS shooter from TAITO has transformed into a whole new way to take the fight to the alien invasion and get your name up in lights on the high score table!    

The differences between Space Invaders Extreme 2 and the previous release are:    

 
• New Additional Stages
 
• Higher Stage Volume
 
• Enhanced Games System
 
• Enhanced Battle Play
 
• New Beginners Course
 
• New Time Attack Mode
 

 Additional features include:    

 
• Futuristic, techno-inspired graphic design takes SPACE INVADERS to new heights of presentation
 
• Interactive, totally immersive sound scheme where sound effects are synchronised to match the beats of the music
 
• Wide range of amazing new power-ups
 
• Background movies
 
• Ranking registration
 
• Play a friend with Nintendo DS Wireless Play and DS Download Play and Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection
 

[Nintendo console owners in PAL territories will have to wait until later this year to enjoy the new Ghostbusters videogame.]

87

TalkBack / Wii and DS Versions of Ghostbusters Delayed in Europe and Australia

« on: May 06, 2009, 06:02:52 PM »

Nintendo console owners in PAL territories will have to wait until later this year to enjoy the new Ghostbusters videogame.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18375

 It was revealed today that Sony Computer Entertainment Europe will have exclusive rights to publish Ghostbusters: The Video Game on its original release date of June 19 in Europe and Australia. MCV confirmed that Atari stills plans on publishing the Wii and DS iterations of Ghostbusters in the PAL regions, but that they will unfortunately not arrive until a later, yet to be announced, date.    

The release of Ghostbusters in North America has been unaffected. On June 16, Wii and DS owners will have the opportunity to pick up the Atari-published game.      

ATARI ANNOUNCES WORLDWIDE LAUNCH PLANS FOR 'GHOSTBUSTERS: THE VIDEO GAME'    

Published by Atari Inc. in North America and Coming to Xbox 360, Wii, PLAYSTATION 3 system, PlayStation 2 system, PC and Nintendo DS on June 16th, 2009    

Coming Exclusively to PLAYSTATION 3 system and PlayStation 2 system in Europe and PAL Regions on June 19th 2009 Published by Sony Computer Entertainment Europe    

PSP(PlayStation Portable) Version Coming Worldwide Autumn 2009    

NEW YORK, NY - May 6, 2009 - Atari, one of the world's most recognized video game publishers, today confirmed the worldwide launch plans for the highly anticipated Ghostbusters: The Video Game.          

The title will launch on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Windows PC, PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, Wii and Nintendo DS in North America on June 16th 2009 and will be published by Atari Inc.        

In an exclusive deal for Europe and the PAL regions, the PLAYSTATION 3 system and PlayStation 2 system versions will launch on June 19th 2009 published by Sony Computer Entertainment Europe.  The launch coincides with the 25th anniversary of the original film's theatrical release and the launch of the Blu-Ray of the classic first movie, benefiting from a worldwide launch and licensing campaign by Sony Pictures Consumer Products.      

"Ghostbusters: The Video Game is one of our most significant worldwide releases this summer. Through Atari's North America publishing business and alongside our partners at Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, we have a strategically diversified approach to maximize a title of this magnitude on a global basis," said Jim Wilson, CEO, Atari, Inc.      

He continued: "As excitement in the marketplace continues to accelerate around this title and the 25th anniversary of the movie's release, Ghostbusters' large and loyal fan base and gamers across North America can play Ghostbusters: The Video Game across all major platforms on June 16."      

A PSP™ (PlayStation Portable) version of the game is scheduled for worldwide launch in autumn 2009 and will be published in Europe by Sony Computer Entertainment Europe.        

Ghostbusters: The Video Game, based on the smash hit motion picture franchise, is penned by original Ghostbusters writers and stars Harold Ramis and Dan Aykroyd and reunites many of the original cast members to recapture the unique blend of humour and fright that established Ghostbusters as a pop culture sensation.  The game's launch on 16 June 2009 coincides with Sony Pictures Home Entertainment's worldwide debut of the original motion picture on Blu-ray Disc.      

In addition to Aykroyd and Ramis, original Ghostbusters Bill Murray, and Ernie Hudson lend their voices and in-game likenesses to the original story set two years after Ghostbusters II, with Manhattan once again overrun by ghosts and supernatural forces.  The player joins up as a new recruit with the original team, testing a variety of unique equipment and gadgets, to track, wrangle and trap this wide range of awe-inspiring phantasms in an all new funny and frightening battle to save New York City from its latest paranormal plague.      

For more information about Ghostbusters: The Video Game please visit ghostbustersgame.com.

[Electronic Arts has moved up the release dates of Grand Slam Tennis and Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10 a week so that they will be available on the same day as Wii MotionPlus.]

88

TalkBack / EA's First MotionPlus Titles Will Hit Stores a Bit Sooner Than Expected

« on: May 05, 2009, 12:59:30 AM »

Electronic Arts has moved up the release dates of Grand Slam Tennis and Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10 a week so that they will be available on the same day as Wii MotionPlus.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18367

 Electronic Arts revealed that their first two MotionPlus compatible games, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10 and EA Sports Grand Slam Tennis, will now debut on June 8, as opposed to June 15.    

EA's Vice President of Global Marketing Todd Sitrin explained that it was "important" to the company to have the releases of Grand Slam Tennis and Tiger Woods coincide with the launch of Wii MotionPlus on June 8. As confirmed earlier, Tiger Woods will be available for purchase in a bundled package with Wii MotionPlus for an additional $10 over their regular retail price of $49.99.    

In Europe, Grand Slam Tennis, both with and without MotionPlus, will be available for purchase on June 12, but those anxious to play Tiger Woods will have to wait until July 3.    

Read more about Grand Slam Tennis and Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10 in their recently posted previews.    

EA’s Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 and Grand Slam Tennis to Hit Retail One Week Early    

New Wii MotionPlus Compatible Products Now Ship June 8    

REDWOOD CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--EA SPORTS, a label of Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS), today announced that both Tiger Woods PGA TOUR® 10 and EA SPORTS Grand Slam® Tennis will ship to stores June 8 in North America, one week earlier than originally announced. EA SPORTS recently announced that the Wii version of Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 will be available packaged with the Wii MotionPlus accessory in both North America and Europe. In Europe only, EA SPORTS Grand Slam Tennis will be available with Wii MotionPlus at launch.    

"This was important for us to bring in our ship dates for Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 and EA SPORTS Grand Slam Tennis to hit right at the launch of the new Wii MotionPlus accessory in North America," said Todd Sitrin, Group Vice President Global Marketing, EA SPORTS. "Fans deserve great games that use the new accessory, and now they’ll have two that deliver authentic sports motion as soon as the Wii MotionPlus hits stores."    

Both Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 and EA SPORTS Grand Slam Tennis have been rated "E" by the ESRB. Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 10 has an MSRP of $59.99 when bundled with the Wii MotionPlus. Both products will be available for $49.99 without the accessory.

[EA reveals a mid-May release for the game and launches its website.]

89

TalkBack / Boom Blox Bash Party Website Goes Live

« on: April 30, 2009, 07:25:46 PM »

EA reveals a mid-May release for the game and launches its website.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18345

 EA announced that the highly-anticipated sequel to Boom Blox will appear in stores on May 19.    

In addition to revealing the release date, EA also unveiled the games website. Visitors to the site can watch short videos displaying some of the different modes, and read descriptions of some of the crazy new blox, such as the push blox that will send objects flying away in a pre-determined direction. It appears that the site may eventually be a great place for players to learn about the most popular user-created levels.    

Read more about Boom Blox Bash Party in the recently posted preview. A short trailer for the game is embedded below.    

 

     

[Strong sales from Rayman and Shaun White helped Ubisoft increase their bottom line.]

90

TalkBack / Ubisoft's Profits Rise Thanks to Wii

« on: April 30, 2009, 03:04:31 PM »

Strong sales from Rayman and Shaun White helped Ubisoft increase their bottom line.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18342

 Ubisoft has been a strong supporter of the Wii since its launch. Evidently, this support paid off this past fiscal year when robust sales of the company's Wii titles helped to boost full-year profits by 14 percent to 1.06 billion euros ($1.5 billion dollars).    

While earnings were down a little over 5 percent in the fourth quarter of 2008-09 compared to the previous year, Ubisoft still managed to rake in 206 million euros ($292.52 million dollars) thanks to the sales success of Wii games like Shaun White Snowboarding: Road Trip, Rayman Raving Rabbids: TV Party, and My Fitness Coach. The million-selling Petz and Imagine franchises were also cited as strong performers in the fourth quarter. In fact, Ubisoft's casual game business grew by over 40 percent.    

During Ubisoft's financial call yesterday, CEO Yves Guillemot implied that a sequel to Shaun White Snowboarding is in the works. Last November and December, Shaun White Snowboarding: Road Trip sold over 470,000 copies on the Wii in North America. In addition, sales of the Rayman Raving Rabbids franchise jumped over 50 percent.    

Guillemot also noted that that Ubisoft's strategy for success has been altered. The company is aiming to deliver "bigger games with higher quality." He explained that even though the initial investment is larger, "in the end it will reduce risk and increase each game's potential."    

Games slated for release by Ubisoft during the 2009-2010 fiscal year include Rabbids Go Home, Red Steel 2, and a plethora of new titles in the Petz, Imagine, and My Coach franchises.

[Nintendo President Satoru Iwata reveals a July release date for Wii Sports Resort, robust sales for the DSi in Europe and North America, and a desire to refrain from price cuts for the Wii.]

91

TalkBack / Iwata Talks About Wii Sports Resort, DSi, and Not Slashing Prices

« on: April 09, 2009, 02:37:38 AM »

Nintendo President Satoru Iwata reveals a July release date for Wii Sports Resort, robust sales for the DSi in Europe and North America, and a desire to refrain from price cuts for the Wii.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=18158

 Nintendo President Satoru Iwata and Shigeru Miyamoto discussed Nintendo's upcoming strategy while speaking at the Foreign Correspondents' Club of Japan in Tokyo yesterday.    

After months of speculation, Iwata officially announced the release window for Wii Sports Resort. The game and Wii Motion Plus will debut first in Japan this June followed by an overseas release in July. In recent months, demand for the Wii has dropped in Japan and Iwata hopes that games like Wii Sports Resort will drive up interest in the console.    

Regardless of the small slip in sales, Nintendo does not anticipate a price cut anytime in the near future for the Wii. "A price cut in a difficult economy cannot really excite the market and drive up sales," http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/technology/04/09/09/nintendo-says-wii-losing-luster-no-price-cut">claims Iwata. Instead, he believes "it is more effective to work on ... [becoming] No. 1 on the wish list." According to Iwata, consumers are always willing to buy products that top their wishlist.    

Iwata also touched upon the sales success of the DSi in Western markets. He said that Nintendo had sold 300,000 DSi systems in both Europe and North America during the system's first two days of availability. Late last month Nintendo sold their 2 millionth DSi in Japan and is now rapidly approaching a worldwide installed base of 3 million units.    

Shigeru Miyamoto spoke about some of non-gaming applications Nintendo has in development for the DS. Nintendo is preparing ways for DS units to receive maps, coupons, and aural directions at different locations such as a shopping plaza. In addition, Nintendo is developing programming tools for Japanese schools that may make it possible for students to throw away their No.2 pencils and instead take a test on their DS. "Convenience in life will be enhanced by having a DS," stated Miyamoto.

[The latest music game from Harmonix will feature a diverse selection of tunes from The Beatles back catalogue and will launch simultaneously in Europe, North America, New Zealand, and Australia.]

92

TalkBack / The Beatles: Rock Band Debuts Worldwide on 9/9/09

« on: March 05, 2009, 02:08:54 PM »

The latest music game from Harmonix will feature a diverse selection of tunes from The Beatles back catalogue and will launch simultaneously in Europe, North America, New Zealand, and Australia.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=17882

 MTV Games and Harmonix have revealed that The Beatles: Rock Band will be available for Wii on September 9 2009 in Europe, North America, New Zealand, and Australia. Players will be able to perform music from throughout The Beatles career using guitar, microphone, and drum peripherals.    

Harmonix, who have demonstrated their ability to make a music game that is more than a simple progression of songs, are hoping to create a title that will take "players on a journey through the legacy and evolution of [The Beatles'] legendary career." The surviving members of the band, Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney, are backing the game. "The project is a fun idea which broadens the appeal of The Beatles and their music," said McCartney.    

Like earlier Rock Band titles, consumers will have the option of purchasing the game by itself (for $59.99), or in a bundle (for $249.99). Interestingly, the standalone game would be the first Wii title, without a peripheral, to retail above the $49.99 price ceiling of new Wii software.  Peripherals based on the instruments used by The Beatles will also be produced, including guitars, which will retail for $99.99. The Beatles: Rock Band will be playable with past Rock Band controllers as well as with peripherals made for other music games.    

Apple Corps Ltd., MTV and Harmonix Announce 'The Beatles: Rock Band,' Worldwide Release Set for 9/9/09    

 NEW YORK, March 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Apple Corps, Ltd., Harmonix and MTV Games, a part of Viacom's MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), today announced the 9/9/09 worldwide release of The Beatles: Rock Band (http://www.thebeatlesrockband.com). The music-based video game, an unprecedented, experiential progression through and celebration of the music and artistry of The Beatles, will be available simultaneously worldwide in North America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and other territories for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and Wii™ home videogame console from Nintendo.    

The Beatles: Rock Band will allow fans to pick up the guitar, bass, mic or drums and experience The Beatles extraordinary catalogue of music through gameplay that takes players on a journey through the legacy and evolution of the band's legendary career. In addition, The Beatles: Rock Band will offer a limited number of new hardware offerings modeled after instruments used by John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr throughout their career.    

The Beatles: Rock Band will be offered as standalone software and hardware as well as a limited edition bundle. The game will be compatible with all Rock Band instrument controllers and other current music-based video game peripherals.    

Available on 9/9/09:    

 
• The Beatles: Rock Band Software -- Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3, Wii: $59.99 MSRP
 
• The Beatles: Rock Band Standalone Guitars -- Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3, Wii: $99.99 MSRP
 
• The Beatles: Rock Band Limited Edition Premium Bundle: Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3, Wii: $249.99 MSRP
 

   

Please note: Pricing outside of the US to be announced at a later date.    

The Beatles: Rock Band marks the first time that Apple Corps, along with EMI Music, Harrisongs Ltd, and Sony/ATV Music Publishing, has agreed to present The Beatles music in an interactive video game format. The Beatles: Rock Band will be published by MTV Games and developed by Harmonix, the world's premier music video game company and creators of the best-selling Rock Band(R). Electronic Arts will serve as distribution partner for the game. In addition, Giles Martin, co-producer of The Beatles innovative LOVE album project, is providing his expertise and serving as Music Producer for this groundbreaking Beatles project.    

Exclusive content created by Apple Corps, MTV Games and Harmonix will be made available to fans over the next few months who participate in a pre-order campaign through major retailers. More details on The Beatles: Rock Band game and pre-order will be revealed in the coming months.    

Please visit http://www.thebeatlesrockband.com.

[The classic NES title is being reimagined for Wii by WayForward Technologies.]

93

TalkBack / A Boy and His Blob Are Back

« on: March 03, 2009, 08:36:46 PM »

The classic NES title is being reimagined for Wii by WayForward Technologies.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/17864

Amongst the pages of April's Nintendo Power are details on a new title in the A Boy and His Blob series. Developer WayFoward Technologies, who got their feet wet on Wii development while making the recently released WiiWare title LIT, are creating the new A Boy and His Blob, which will be a full-featured Wii retail release this fall.

The NES A Boy and His Blob was the brainchild of David Crane who is famous for programming Pitfall and Pitfall II: Lost Caverns for the Atari 2600. While the game received one sequel on the Game Boy called A Boy and His Blob in The Rescue of Princess Blobette, a more recent attempt at a revival on the DS by Majesco did not come to fruition.

The new game will have a lot in common with its forebearer. Players will once again take on the role of a boy who is on a quest to defeat an evil emperor with his jelly-bean-loving blob friend. Upon eating jelly beans, the blob (named Blobert in the NES title) can morph into a number of useful forms like a rocket, an anvil, a parachute, a trampoline, and even a humanoid-like appearance. Unlike the original title, many of the blob's new transformations will be used for more offensive means such as, in a possible nod to Lode Runner, punching holes in the ground for enemies to fall into. In addition, the game also sports a beautiful hand drawn 2D art style.

WayFoward may be well suited for the new A Boy and His Blob having developed the well received platformer Shantae, which saw release during the twilight of the Game Boy Color. The first artwork of A Boy and His Blob's new look can be seen at Nintendo Power's website.

[The acclaimed Virtua Tennis series debuts on Wii with numerous tennis stars, over 40 court environments, and online play.]

94

TalkBack / Sega Unveils Virtua Tennis 2009

« on: February 14, 2009, 10:12:01 PM »

The acclaimed Virtua Tennis series debuts on Wii with numerous tennis stars, over 40 court environments, and online play.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=17763

 Sega recently announced the development of Virtua Tennis 2009 for Wii. Not only will this be the first Virtua Tennis game for a Nintendo home console, but it also has the distinction of being the first tennis game on Wii with online play. Players will also be able to enjoy a single player mode that includes the series' signature Court games, which are a variety of sometimes silly - but fun - tennis mini-games.    

Just like the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 versions, the game will have tennis greats such as Rafael Nadal, Maria Sharapova, Roger Federer, and many others. In addition, the game is slated to include five new Court games along with many classic ones from earlier titles. Virtua Tennis 2009 will also feature over forty different court variants and a World Tour Mode.    

The developer of the game has yet to be announced, but it’s highly possible that it is British studio Sumo Digital who created the Xbox 360 port of Virtua Tennis 3 and all versions of Sega Superstars Tennis. Interestingly, Sumo Digital revealed in an interview with Kikizo that Sega Superstars Tennis was originally envisioned as a Virtua Tennis game for Wii.    

Virtua Tennis 2009 will hit stores shelves this May.    

  SEGA'S NUMBER ONE TENNIS GAME SMASHES ON TO Wii    

Virtua Tennis™ 2009 is confirmed for Wii release.    

   LONDON & SAN FRANCISCO (February 13th 2009) – SEGA Europe Ltd. and SEGA of America, Inc. today announced that the Virtua Tennis™ series will, for the very first time, be released on the Wii™ system and will hit stores in May 2009.        

Wii owners will finally be able to take to the courts in the fan's number one tennis game, boasting all the features and arcade action that has made Virtua Tennis the most critically acclaimed and best selling tennis series available.  Virtua Tennis 2009 for Wii includes the same impressive player roster as Virtua Tennis 2009 on other platforms, meaning top stars such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Maria Sharapova and Venus Williams will all be in the game, as well as players new to the series such as Andy Murray and Ana Ivanovic.  Over 40 vibrant court environments will be playable within single player, multiplayer and online modes giving Virtua Tennis 2009 an impressive online and offline depth for a Wii title.      

"The Virtua Tennis series is perfect for the Wii platform," said Sean Ratcliffe, Vice President of Marketing, SEGA of America, Inc., "SEGA is excited to be able to bring this uniquely interactive experience to Wii. The multiplayer Court Games in particular will be a feature that family and friends can enjoy together."    

The list of Court Games has also been updated for Virtua Tennis 2009, meaning the return of old Virtua Tennis favorites, some revamped classics, and five new games. Virtua Tennis 2009 for the Wii will also include the official Davis Cup® license and the World Tour Mode, which will allow Wii owners to experience Virtua Tennis online.      

In addition to the Wii version, Virtua Tennis 2009 is due for release on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system, the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and the PC in May 2009.  Further information relating to the content of the game will be available over the coming months from the official website of the game – www.virtuatennis2009.com.

[Former rival mascots, Mario and Sonic, will reunite as they compete in a variety of winter sports on the Wii and DS in late 2009.]

95

TalkBack / Sega Announces Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games

« on: February 13, 2009, 08:05:42 AM »

Former rival mascots, Mario and Sonic, will reunite as they compete in a variety of winter sports on the Wii and DS in late 2009.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=17754

 In late 2007, Yoshi and Miles "Tails" Prower faced off against one another for the first time in Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games, which has sold over 10 million units across the globe. Today, Nintendo and Sega announced Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games for Wii and DS. Once again, players will be able to partake in a number of Olympic events as their favorite Sonic and Mario characters.    

Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games is being developed internally at Sega of Japan, and Donkey Kong creator Shigeru Miyamoto is overseeing the project. Both versions of the title are being designed to take advantage of their hardware's unique control input. Some of the events featured in the game include Speed Skating and Alpine Skiing. The Wii version will support the Balance Board for select events.    

President of Nintendo of America Reggie Fils-Aime said, "SEGA has been a valued publishing partner of Nintendo for many years and Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games is the ultimate representation of that relationship." Furthermore, Mr. Fils-Aime said, "We look for this game to continue the tradition its predecessor started by bringing new events, new characters, and new gameplay experiences to fans worldwide."    

Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winters Games will appear on store shelves all around the world in late 2009. A new trailer for the game is embedded below.    

 

     

   

Mario and Sonic Head to the Slopes in Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games    

TOKYO (February 12, 2009) – SEGA® Corporation and Nintendo Co., Ltd today announced that two of the biggest video game heroes, Mario™ and Sonic™, will be coming together again, this time taking their rivalry to the snow and ice in another officially licensed Olympic-themed smash hit Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games™. Heading to stores late in 2009 on the Wii™ home video game system and Nintendo DS™, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games will take players to Vancouver, Canada, host city of the official 2010 Olympic Winter Games. This gaming experience invites players of all ages and skill sets to face-off in some of the most intense winter competitions available for the Nintendo platforms.    

Developed by SEGA of Japan, under the guidance of Shigeru Miyamoto, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games will take players to lifelike Olympic venues where they can choose from a legendary cast of playable characters, including new faces to the series to be revealed later this year. Following the phenomenal worldwide popularity of Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games, which has sold over 10 million copies worldwide, this fresh gaming experience will feature completely new Olympic Winter Games events from the official competition schedule including Alpine Skiing and Speed Skating with more events announced throughout the year.    

Tailored to the specific system controls, Nintendo DS and Wii gamers will enjoy completely unique experiences thanks to each platform having its own specific gameplay features and modes. Players of all skill levels will enjoy the intuitive controls of both the Wii and Nintendo DS systems, in both single and multiplayer gaming modes. The Wii game will offer an even richer multiplayer experience offering co-op and competitive gameplay where the Nintendo DS brings an intense competitive element using the Nintendo DS wireless capabilities. Additionally, one of the new features to be found in Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games is the inclusion of the Wii Balance Board™ which can be used in some events featured in the Wii version, allowing for a more interactive and realistic gaming experience.    

Published by SEGA® across Europe and North America, and published by Nintendo in the Japanese market, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games is again licensed through a worldwide partnership with International Sports Multimedia (ISM), the exclusive interactive entertainment software licensee of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).    

"We are extremely happy to again team up with Nintendo and ISM on what promises to be another global success." says Naoya Tsurumi, CEO, SEGA of America and SEGA Europe. "Sonic will partner with Mario once more beneath the spotlight of the legendary Olympic Games. Together they will face new athletic challenges that will provide gamers with more of the exciting experiences unique to this series."    

"SEGA has been a valued publishing partner of Nintendo for many years and Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games is the ultimate representation of that relationship," said Reggie Fils-Aime, president and COO, Nintendo of America. "We look for this game to continue the tradition its predecessor started by bringing new events, new characters, and new gameplay experiences to fans worldwide."    

"To once again have Mario and Sonic and friends compete in Olympic sports and events in a winter setting is tremendously exciting for the Olympic Movement and the millions of gamers worldwide who enjoyed the characters' previous match up", says Raymond Goldsmith, Chairman & CEO of ISM.    

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games will be in stores late 2009. For more information about the game, please visit www.sega.com or http://www.olympicvideogames.com">www.olympicvideogames.com.

[Will Wright's Spore franchise debuts on Wii with the brand new adventure game Spore Hero. The DS will receive Spore Hero Arena, giving the custom 3D creatures a chance to duke it out.]

96

TalkBack / EA Unveils New Spore Titles for Wii and DS

« on: January 22, 2009, 05:50:33 PM »

Will Wright's Spore franchise debuts on Wii with the brand new adventure game Spore Hero. The DS will receive Spore Hero Arena, giving the custom 3D creatures a chance to duke it out.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=17592

 Electronic Arts announced today that Spore Hero for Wii and Spore Hero Arena for DS will hit stores shelves this fall.    

Will Wright, the creator of SimCity 2000, The Sims, and Spore, has long supported Nintendo with his games appearing on everything from the SNES to the 64DD. Since 2007, Wright has stated that a version of Spore was in development for the Wii, but it was not officially unveiled until earlier today. Spore Hero is an adventure game that will transport players to a colorful world. The game's control scheme is being specially designed to take advantage of the Wii.    

Likewise, Spore Hero Arena for the DS is a successor to last year's Spore Creatures. Players will be able to create a variety of 3D creatures and have them face off with creatures from all over.    

Both games are expected to place a stronger emphasis on story compared to the PC version of Spore.    

Create, Play and Share With Spore Franchise as EA Unveils Diverse Software Line-up for 2009    

Four Unique Launches Prove That Possibilities in Spore are as Infinite as the Cosmos    

EMERYVILLE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Spore franchise is evolving! With more than 65 million pieces of user-created content shared online, fans from around the globe have gravitated to the game's powerful creativity-centered experience and massively single-player content sharing site. This year, the award-winning Spore franchise continues to evolve as Maxis, an Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:ERTS) studio announces four new titles, each designed to deliver a unique experience to a specific audience; Spore™ Galactic Adventures, Spore™ Creature Keeper*, Spore™ Hero* and Spore™ Hero Arena*. This roster offers unique gameplay for space hunters, creature creators and action adventurers, proving that Spore has something for everyone – gamers, kids and Nintendo fans alike.    

"Last year was a very exciting year for Maxis with the release of Spore. We were overwhelmed by the massive response to the game from the millions of people that created, shared and played in the Spore universe," said General Manager of Maxis, Lucy Bradshaw. "This year we're going to experiment with new experiences that extend the powerful creativity tools of Spore to all-new audiences. With the universe as our backdrop, the only limit in the Spore universe is your own imagination."    

The next big bang for Spore on PC comes this spring with the deeply immersive and customizable expansion pack, Spore Galactic Adventures. Spore Galactic Adventures adds a tremendous amount of variety and depth to the original "space game" in Spore, allowing players to beam down to planets, play mission-based adventures and even create their own customized adventures for the first time. Each adventure has a unique reward to upgrade a space creature with special accessories – from an Energy Blade and Stunning Charm to a Jump Jet and more. Players can fight their way to victory as a Warrior, dance with new friends as a Bard, and much more. With an almost unlimited number of user created adventures, there's more to play than ever before. The "adventure creator" in Spore Galactic Adventures gives gamers the tools to make their own missions and share them with friends via http://www.spore.com.    

Younger Spore fans will have a blast with the Spore Creature Keeper, a stand-alone PC game that has players nurturing, training and playing with their own personally-created creature. With lots of toys, clothes and gizmos to play with, players can pamper their pets to perfection! With Spore Creature Keeper, fans can play with their creation alone or have a play-date online for endless creature fun. Spore Creature Keeper brings all the fun of creature creation to a new level by adding nurturing, teaching and social components to the experience.    

Spore will make its highly-anticipated debut on the Nintendo Wii with Spore Hero, an all-new adventure game focusing on creativity and evolution that was built from the ground up for the unique controls for Wii™. Spore Hero takes players on an exciting adventure through a beautiful, colorful world. Spore Hero Arena for Nintendo DS™ builds on the success of 2008's hit Spore™ Creatures and allows players to create fully-3D Spore creatures and take them into battle with an array of other creatures across the galaxy. Spore Hero and Spore Hero Arena offer two all-new Spore experiences available exclusively for Nintendo platforms this fall.    

To learn more about Spore, to download a free trial of the Spore Creature Creator, or to visit the more than 65 million player-created creations to date, please visit http://www.spore.com. For screen shots or press materials about Spore, please visit our press web site at http://info.ea.com

[Capcom's Japanese fighting game Tatsunoko Vs. Capcom: Cross Generation of Heroes is powered by hardware that bears a striking resemblance to the innards of the Wii.]

97

TalkBack / Arcade Version of Tatsunoko Vs. Capcom Uses Wii Technology

« on: January 14, 2009, 12:06:44 AM »

Capcom's Japanese fighting game Tatsunoko Vs. Capcom: Cross Generation of Heroes is powered by hardware that bears a striking resemblance to the innards of the Wii.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=17527

 Photos taken by The Stinger Report reveal that the motherboard inside Tatsunoko Vs. Capcom is stamped with Nintendo's name. In addition, the hardware that runs Capcom's fighter lacks an Ethernet adapter and has a WiFi device just like the Wii. It is currently unknown if any other games will use the Wii based arcade system board.    

Since the mid-1990s, it has become very common for arcade games to run on hardware that is based on a popular home console. For example, Namco games such as Tekken 2 and Soul Edge utilized the Namco System 11 arcade system board which is little more than an enhanced Sony Playstation. Another example occurred last generation when Nintendo teamed up with Sega and Namco to create an arcade board based on the Gamecube called the Triforce. According to the coin-op centric website Arcade Heroes, Tatsunoko Vs. Capcom: Cross Generation of Heroes is the first known case of an arcade game that uses technology based on the Wii.    

In Japan, a port of Tatsunoko Vs. Capcom was released for the Wii this past December. While Capcom has said the fighter may see release in North America, there are a number of license issues that would have to be resolved with the rights owners of the Tatsunoko animation characters.

[Satoru Iwata talks about selling the DS and Wii in new markets, the economic recession, and his belief that the market for the DS is not saturated.]

98

TalkBack / Iwata Believes Nintendo Must 'Monitor the Market Very Carefully'

« on: January 12, 2009, 02:14:06 PM »

Satoru Iwata talks about selling the DS and Wii in new markets, the economic recession, and his belief that the market for the DS is not saturated.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=17522

 Since replacing Hiroshi Yamauchi as president of Nintendo in 2002, Satoru Iwata has led the company to great success. The popular Japanese newspaper, The Yomiuri Shimbun, recently had the opportunity to speak with Satoru Iwata. In the interview, Iwata discussed the DSi, the recession, and Nintendo's future.    

According to Iwata, the DS market has not become saturated. He pointed out that Nintendo has successfully sold over 23 million DS units in a country with only 127 million people. "Sales of the [DS] could grow further in foreign countries," Iwata said, citing the high populations of the European Union and the United States. He also mentioned that Nintendo is interested in selling their video games systems in "emerging markets such as Russia and India."      

Iwata explained that owners of the DSi will be able to personalize their console by downloading programs off the internet.  Nintendo aspires to "create a trend in which each family member will have his or her own DSi with their favorite software installed."    

In addition, Iwata feels that the video game industry will continue to be strong in 2009. "It seems more and more people are enjoying games instead of traveling or eating out to save money," said Iwata. However, he realizes that the current recession is a rare occurrence and stated that Nintendo is closely watching the market. "Nintendo workers who know only the good times of the company are increasing," Iwata admitted, "I hope to give them a sense of the potential critical nature [of the economic situation]."

[The game has gone through several PC versions since 2005, but the "huge break" for the small development team was becoming an officially licensed WiiWare developer.]

99

TalkBack / Eduardo the Samurai Toaster Goes from Indie to WiiWare

« on: January 06, 2009, 03:09:49 PM »

The game has gone through several PC versions since 2005, but the "huge break" for the small development team was becoming an officially licensed WiiWare developer.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=17490

 Developers like 2D Boy, creators of World of Goo, have demonstrated that small independent studios can accomplish amazing things on WiiWare.  The latest independent team trying their hand at WiWare development is Semnat Studios, who on Monday announced their 2D shooter: Eduardo the Samurai Toaster.      

In early 2005, Daniel Coleman and Robert Demaria formed Colorado based Semnat Studios. Coleman explained in an interview with Gamasutra that the idea for their game originated when Demaria, "jokingly suggested that [they] work on a platformer where you play as a toaster that fights magical fairies." After working on multiple iterations of Eduardo the Samurai Toaster for the PC, they decided to contact Nintendo and Sony about publishing the game on their digital services. While they never reached Sony, Nintendo of America quickly got back to them. Coleman told IGN  that it was a "huge break" when Semnat Studios became an officially licensed WiiWare developer. Coleman also said that Eduardo the Samurai Toaster has only four people on its development team.    

During a conversation with WiiWare World, Coleman compared Eduardo the Samurai Toaster to classic shooters like Metal Slug and Gunstar Heroes. Up to four players will find themselves battling as anthropomorphic toasters that must complete thirteen levels filled with evil fruits, veggies, and pastries. Coleman explained that the team is trying to include the best elements of the action shooter genre while taking out "everything we thought wasn't necessary." For example, there will not be a score system. One aspect of Gunstar Heroes that the team is including is the ability to grab and throw objects. "You can throw any enemy, teammate, or projectile in the game," said Coleman. Also, just like in classic arcade titles such as TMNT: Turtles in Times, additional players will be able to join a game already in progress. The game is designed to be played with the Wii Remote held NES style or with a Classic Controller.    

One of the game's most interesting features is the unique visual style. Coleman created the art for the game using a variety of tools such as charcoal and acrylic paint. When asked what inspired the innovative and experimental artistic style featured in the game, Coleman said, "I'm a huge fan of foreign cinema and especially 50's and 60's Japanese movies, so I wanted to create areas in the game that would look like they came out of an old samurai flick." Other influences on the visuals include Chinese ink paintings and games like Shadow of the Colossus and Okami.      

Currently, Eduardo the Samurai Toaster is only scheduled for a North American release because Semnat Studios simply can't afford to release it elsewhere. Coleman hopes that the game will be available on WiiWare before April and for a low price, but Nintendo has the final say on both matters.    

  Colorado, USA - January 5th, 2009 – Indie developer Semnat Studios is excited to finally announce the upcoming Wii™ release of Eduardo the Samurai Toaster, an incredibly fast and frenetic sidescrolling, run'n'gun 2D shooter. The game will be released exclusively for WiiWare™ this winter, developed and published by Semnat Studios.    

With visuals drawn and scanned in from several different art mediums such as pen & ink, acrylic paint and charcoal, Eduardo sports an untraditional aesthetic design for a videogame. Jump, shoot, whip, drive, fly and throw your way through hordes of Peking Opera pastries, spear toting carrots, robotic mangos, and more. Play with friends as you learn to cooperate effectively, or be annoying by throwing each other around the screen and attacking one another.    

FEATURES    

 
• Drop in co-op play for up to four players.
 
• Ride scooters equipped with laser-blasters and fly around in rocket packs in single player or co-op.
 
• Use 5 different pastry pickups to upgrade your firepower.
 
• Battle enemies through 13 unique levels.
 
• Several different difficulty options to choose from, allowing players to pick their desired level of challenge.
 

   

Eduardo the Samurai Toaster has been Rated E for everyone by the ESRB.

[In addition to Monster Hunter 3, Wii owners will soon be able to experience a port of the original chapter in the Monster Hunter saga.]

100

TalkBack / Monster Hunter G Being Ported to Wii

« on: December 30, 2008, 01:20:51 PM »

In addition to Monster Hunter 3, Wii owners will soon be able to experience a port of the original chapter in the Monster Hunter saga.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=17467

 According to the popular weekly Japanese gaming magazine Famitsu, a port of Monster Hunter G is being developed for the Wii and is slated to see a spring release in Japan with no current plans for a Western release. Originally released on the Playstation 2 in early 2005, Monster Hunter G is an enhanced port of the first title in the Monster Hunter series. Changes made in Monster Hunter G include new variations of the dragon-like wyvern monsters, a higher chance of acquiring rare items, and a pet pig that bestows luck.    

In addition to keeping all the content of the Playstation 2 version, this port of Monster Hunter G will have some new features. For example, players will be able to immediately send newly acquired items to their item box. However, the game does not appear to take advantage of the Wii Remote and Capcom recommends gamers use the Classic Controller to play.    

Monster Hunter G will feature an online mode for up to four players. While players of the PS2 iteration needed to pay a monthly fee to battle monsters online, it is currently unknown if Wii owners will have to do the same.