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[Nintendo finally advertises Metal Gear Solid: The Twin Snakes and other upcoming games!]

601

TalkBack / New Nintendo TV Spots

« on: April 21, 2004, 02:26:04 PM »

Nintendo finally advertises Metal Gear Solid: The Twin Snakes and other upcoming games!

Did You Know? - Nintendo Launches New Ads for Game Boy Advance and Nintendo GameCube

April 21, 2004 - Nintendo continues the evolution of the "Who Are You?" campaign with new advertising created by Leo Burnett USA for Nintendo GameCube and Game Boy Advance, two of the hottest systems in the video game industry.

"Interviewer," which launches this week and showcases Nintendo GameCube software, features a guy in a therapist's office that appears to be living out the personalities and experiences of characters within Nintendo GameCube games. He is transformed by each game's experience and "becomes" the characters he plays. The campaign is a continuation of the "Who Are You?" theme launched in September, 2003.  Two 30-second and four 15-second versions of the spot feature game footage from titles including EA Sports’ MVP Baseball™ 2004, Custom Robo™, Konami’s Metal Gear Solid®: The Twin Snakes™ and The Legend of Zelda®: Four Swords Adventures.

Also launching this week is a new campaign for Game Boy Advance, entitled "Freeboy."  Set to the beat of U.K. dance act Goldfrapp's "Strict Machine" from the album Black Cherry (recently achieved Gold sales status in Britain), the first of several spots in development visually illustrates how Game Boy Advance has untethered a generation from their gaming consoles and has "freed" them to enjoy Nintendo games anywhere and everywhere. The portable interactive entertainment system allows gamers to explore themselves by changing the world around them. Game Boy Advance can transform ordinary life into an exciting experience. This new campaign is a collision of reality and fantasy.  With the help of groundbreaking effects, the ads give viewers a peek into the mind of someone playing Game Boy Advance, illustrating how a player's perspective on the "real" world changes as they play.  The "Freeboy" work will also carry the "Who Are You?" theme.

These new spots will run on network, cable and in syndication and will be included during such programs as UPN's "One on One," "Rock Me Baby" and "I'm Still Alive;" WB's "Angel," "The Jaime Kennedy Experiment," and "Smallville," Fox's "The Ortegas," ABC's "Married to the Kelly's" and "America's Funniest Home Videos," MTV's "ET on MTV" and "Real World" and BET's "106th and Park."

The Game Boy Advance print campaign will break 4/28 in ESPN Magazine.  The rest of the print ads run in the June and July issues of music, men's and alternative publications such as Rolling Stone, Stuff, Maxim, Spin, Blender, DC, Marvel and Transworld Surf.  The print campaign mirrors the television look and feel, featuring a collage of real-life and game-world elements.

The effects in "Freeboy" were created by Asylum Visual Effects, a special effects company touted for its work on films including "Minority Report" and "Moulin Rouge" and was nominated for a special effects Academy Award for "Master & Commander."  The company's visual effects will be featured in three additional Game Boy Advance spots promoting Mario vs. Donkey Kong™, the Classic NES® Series for Game Boy Advance and Mario Golf ™: Advance Tour breaking now through mid-June.  

The "Who Are You?" campaign unifies Nintendo products under a single theme and encourages gamers to unleash what is inside them. It showcases the ability of Nintendo games to let players explore a wide range of emotions, experiences and personalities through Nintendo's stable of the most popular and diverse video game characters in the world, such as Mario™, Donkey Kong®, Link and Samus.  The initial spot, "School's Out," was voted #1 on the first annual GameSpot TV commercial awards in December last year.

To view the new Nintendo television ads, please visit http://www.leoburnett.com/breaking/nintendo.

[Atlus ships Sega's Shining Soul II for the Game Boy Advance to retailers.]

602

TalkBack / A Second Soul Shines on the GBA

« on: April 20, 2004, 11:11:50 AM »

Atlus ships Sega's Shining Soul II for the Game Boy Advance to retailers.

ATLUS U.S.A., INC. SHIPS "SHINING SOUL II" ON THE NINTENDO GAME BOY® ADVANCE TO RETAILERS NATIONWIDE

 

Irvine, CA, April 20, 2004 - Atlus U.S.A., Inc., a leading publisher of console RPG’s, announced today that it has shipped the sequel to the multiplayer action role-playing game "Shining Soul" for the Game Boy® Advance to retailers nationwide.  The official Shining Soul 2 website has also gone live at http://www.atlus.com/ss2 and features game information, as well as exclusive downloads such as movies and wallpaper for your desktop.

 

Story:

Long ago, the warriors of Light defeated Darkness, but in time, the story became just an old legend. For many years, the world was at peace, but eventually, disaster slowly drew near. Thick, mysterious clouds formed overhead, blocking out the sun, but not releasing a drop of rain. The people were tormented by drought for years. Then, monsters began to appear, and people's hearts filled with despair. King Marcel, the ruler of Klantol, feared for his people's welfare. And so, he announced a grand tournament at the colosseum to find a mighty hero that could protect the country and vanquish the wandering monsters.  "...Heroes who have inherited the power of Light, save this world from being engulfed in Darkness!"

 

"If you thought the original 'Shining Soul' was a blast, you ain't seen nothin' yet! 'Shining Soul II' uses the same formula as its predecessor, but improves on it in every way!  Better graphics, a deeper story, more characters, more stages, and more secrets to unlock!," said Bill Alexander, Project Lead, Atlus U.S.A., Inc. "Alone or with friends, this game is one adventure you won't want to miss!!"

 

Features:

 

·         4 new character classes for a total of 8!  Become a Priestess, Dark Wizard, Ninja, or mighty Brawler.

 

·         Know your role!  Each character has certain strengths and weaknesses that can mean the difference between victory and defeat in the exciting co-op multiplayer mode.  

·         Enter the Royal Colosseum and challenge the computer or your friends in a battle for special items and glory!  

·         Equip and combine your party’s Force Links and create the Shining Force, a powerful weapon capable of decimating the enemy forces!  

·         Collect and trade valuable weapons and armor with your friends!  

·         New side quests allow you to build your character and discover rare items.

 

Shining Soul II has been rated “E” for Everyone by the ESRB. For more information, visit the official Shining Soul II website at www.atlus.com/ss2.

[Game 1: Mega Man (GB)]

603

Podcast Discussion / Radio Trivia Results for 04/16/2004

« on: April 16, 2004, 08:00:42 PM »

Game 1: Mega Man (GB)

<ulanshad> Mega Man: Dr. Wily's Revenge

Q: Which Mega Man 1 bosses are in Mega Man (1) on the Game Boy? (SPELLING COUNTS)
<ulanshad> Fire Man, ice Man, Elec man, cut man,


Game 2: F-Zero GX

Mikemn, NikJam, bario, Vicious

Q: Which driver shares a name with the villain from StarTropics?
<Mikemn> zoda


Game 3: Snake, Rattle & Roll (NES)

Points to: Carlos_, AV-Cables

Q: What device opens the exit to each level?
<Mikemn> scale


Game 4: Super Return of the Jedi (Super Star Wars is not good enough) (SNES)

Points to: AV-Cables, carlos_, Shaun, ulanshad

Q: What is going on with the environment that makes Emperor Palpatine so difficult?
<carlos_> its breaking (the floor)


Game 5: Undercover Cops (SNES)

Q: Which popular, long-lasting space shooter is the developer of Undercover Cops well-known for?
<Sir_Pinch-a-Loaf> r-type


Tie-breaker among Ulanshad, Mikemn and Carlos

TB1: Kirby Air Ride (GC)

TB2: Final Fantasy Adventure

TB3: <carlos_> Kirby's dream course


-----RESULTS-----

Carlos_: 3 + Tie-breaker

Ulanshad: 3

Mikemn: 3

AV-Cables: 2

NikJam: 1

Barrio: 1

Vicious: 1

Shaun: 1

Sir_Pinch-a-Loaf: 1

[The Japanese game rating system will now include more than just a suggested age.]

604

TalkBack / CERO Adds Content Descriptors To Ratings

« on: April 16, 2004, 05:13:42 PM »

The Japanese game rating system will now include more than just a suggested age.

The ESRB’s Japanese counterpart, the Computer Entertainment Rating Organization (CERO), is adding icons representing potentially-offensive content to its game rating system.  Potentially-offensive ratings (12+, 15+, and 18+) will now be accompanied by the following content ratings:

Adult situations
Sex
Violence
Horror
Gambling
Crime
Smoking & drinking
Drugs
Explicit language

Packaging with CERO’s new content rating system will pop up in Japanese stores beginning in June.

[Take-Two ships ships Serious Sam for the GameCube and Game Boy Advance.]

605

TalkBack / Sam Gets Serious

« on: April 15, 2004, 12:22:46 PM »

Take-Two ships ships Serious Sam for the GameCube and Game Boy Advance.

GLOBALSTAR SHIPS SERIOUS SAM: NEXT ENCOUNTER FOR THE PLAYSTATION®2 AND NINTENDO GAMECUBE

Serious Sam Advance Also Set To Ship For Game Boy Advance

 New York ­ April 15, 2004 ­ Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO) announced today that its Global Star publishing label has shipped Serious Sam: Next Encounter for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and Nintendo GameCube to North American retailers and is expected to be released in Europe and Australia on April 30, 2004. Developed by Climax, the newest addition to the popular first-person shooter franchise features online play for up to eight players and two-player split screen action on the PlayStation 2, a four-player deathmatch option on the Nintendo GameCube, and two-player cooperative mode for both platforms. Serious Sam: Next Encounter is rated M for Mature and is available for the suggested retail price of $19.99.

Serious Sam: Next Encounter finds Sam gearing up once again to defend the Earth from Mental and his limitless extra-terrestrial hordes. Sam is launched back in time to rid the alien scum from more than 40 levels spread throughout three beautifully rendered, massive new time periods ­ Ancient Rome, Feudal China and legendary Atlantis. For the first time ever, Sam will have access to vehicles to help him mow down the enemies, and of course he¹ll be armed to the teeth with an arsenal that contains old favorites and some high-powered new additions. Throughout it all, Serious Sam: Next Encounter maintains the same hilarious and high speed shoot-Oem-up action that fans have come to love, while introducing tons of new features that will keep the fingers of experts and newcomers alike wrapped around their trigger buttons.

In addition, Global Star has also shipped Serious Sam Advance for the Nintendo ® Game Boy Advance, the first Serious Sam title for the system. Serious Sam Advance retails for $19.99.

[Wizards of the Coast and Atari team up to bring Duel Masters to American gamers.]

606

TalkBack / Atari Duels Masters on the GBA

« on: April 15, 2004, 07:46:36 AM »

Wizards of the Coast and Atari team up to bring Duel Masters to American gamers.

Atari to Bring Trading Card Game Phenomenon Duel Masters to Game Boy Advance; Atari Announces Duel Masters: Sempai Legends

  With More Than 120 Million Booster Packs Sold in Japan, Duel Masters Prepares for U.S. Invasion

BEVERLY, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 15, 2004-- Atari, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATAR) and Wizards of the Coast, a subsidiary of Hasbro Inc., today announced that Duel Masters(TM) -- the number one toy in Japan according to Weekly Toy News -- will be released for Nintendo's Game Boy(R) Advance in June 2004. Already an incredibly successful trading card game, television series and comic book in Japan, Atari's Duel Masters(TM): Sempai Legends, which was developed under license from Hasbro, will launch hot on the heels of the newest round of the Duel Masters trading card game from Wizards of the Coast. With more than 120 million booster packs sold in Japan, Duel Masters is preparing to invade the U.S.

"Duel Masters: Sempai Legends incorporates an engaging combination of strategy, humor and mystery that we believe will translate into an exciting interactive entertainment offering," said Nancy MacIntyre, vice president of Marketing and Public Relations, Atari's Beverly studio. "We are pleased to work with Wizards of the Coast to bring this entertainment phenomenon from Japan to the U.S. and the Game Boy Advance."

"Atari has successfully demonstrated its expertise in bringing anime properties and trading card franchises to the interactive entertainment sector, and we are excited to be working with them on Duel Masters," said James Szubski, Duel Masters brand manager, Wizards of the Coast. "Duel Masters has already demonstrated its ability to span a variety of entertainment genres, and Atari's Game Boy Advance offering combined with our trading card game delivers the perfect vehicle with which to introduce this universe to North America."

Duel Masters' Accomplishments in Japan

 The Trading Card Game launched in Japan in May of 2002  

More than 4,000,000 Duel Masters decks sold  

More than 120,000,000 Duel Masters booster packs sold  

The Trading Card Game has been the #1 toy in Japan for the last 11 consecutive months  

There are more than 600 Duel Masters play events per month  

26 episodes of the Duel Masters TV show have been produced; 26 additional episodes are currently in production  

 U.S. Launch Highlights

 Times Square Launch Event on March 5, 2004  

U.S. Launch supported by 15-city Wizards of the Coast Mall Tour  

Animated Duel Masters cartoon on Cartoon Network  

Duel Masters Organized Leagues and Tournaments  

Trading Card, Video Game and Anime Enthusiast convention presence throughout 2004 and beyond

About Duel Masters: Sempai Legends for Game Boy Advance  

Duel Masters: Sempai Legends offers a story-driven experience, in which the lead character inherits a valuable Duel Masters card from his grandfather, but before he can add it to his deck, it is stolen by a mysterious man. As a result, the lead character must travel through a dangerous world inhabited by rival duelists in the hopes of regaining his stolen property. Along the way, he enters tournaments and gains the experience to someday become a Kaijudo Master.

For more information, please visit www.atari.com. Hasbro, Inc.

[Factor 5 announces it will no longer support the GameCube, turning its attention to next generation consoles and handhelds.]

607

TalkBack / Factor 5 Focuses on Next Generation

« on: April 14, 2004, 07:13:28 PM »

Factor 5 announces it will no longer support the GameCube, turning its attention to next generation consoles and handhelds.

Numerous sources reported today that Factor 5 has officially dropped support for Nintendo’s GameCube.  Many have taken this to be another blow to Nintendo’s third party support, right after the recent Silicon Knights announcement.  However, this news should not be taken too gravely.

Factor 5 isn’t just dropping support for the GameCube, it is dropping its support of all current generation systems.  As Factor 5 president Julian Eggebrecht reminded GameSpot, Factor 5 has “never been a Nintendo shop.”  They simply chose to develop the Rogue Squadron series on Nintendo’s console, and have a long history with Nintendo on its MusyX audio tools.

As a middleware developer, Factor 5 already announced its affiliation with Sony on its PSP and Microsoft on its XNA standardization movement at GDC.  Factor 5 was also involved with DivX tools for non-Nintendo consoles.  Factor 5 insists that it still has close ties with Nintendo and is excited about both the Nintendo DS and GCNext.  The company is likely withholding its next-generation Nintendo plans until the first party discloses its own.

Eggebrecht also hinted at the possibility of a new game announcement in the near future, though which future platform(s) it will run on are shrouded in mystery.

[Game Informer Magazine provides a first glimpse into Metroid Prime 2's new features, including multiplayer]

608

TalkBack / Metroid Prime 2 Preview

« on: April 14, 2004, 06:12:25 PM »

Game Informer Magazine provides a first glimpse into Metroid Prime 2's new features, including multiplayer

The latest issue of Game Informer Magazine contains the first published screens of Metroid Prime 2 for the Nintendo GameCube. While Nintendo did not provide Game Informer with any information, an analysis of the screens reveals some juicy details and spurs speculation.

First, Metroid Prime 2 will feature the four-player split-screen gameplay previously rumored. One screenshot displays four differently-colored Samuses (or Samus look-alikes) in what appears to be a death match mode. The multiplayer mode retains many of Metroid Prime's features, including multiple visors, missiles, and morph ball capabilities. A large number can be found in the inner corner of each player's screen, though its meaning is not apparent from the screenshot, which does include health meters.

Also of note are the changes in HUD design for Metroid Prime 2. Although the basic layout has remained the same, aspects have been altered to accommodate new information. Metroid Prime 2 still features a map in the upper-right corner of the screen and radar in the upper-left corner.  However, the map is not present in multiplayer, and the radar is still displayed when using the morph ball.  Retro Studios has also reinvented its missile gauge, replacing the single sliding bar with a 2x5 grid of boxes. Only the bottom two boxes are filled, suggesting either that each box holds about 20 missiles or that Metroid Prime may feature multiple types of missiles. The energy gauge has also been modified: the single-player screen sports six vertical bars, two of which are grayed out, almost certainly representing energy tanks. The amount of energy left in the current energy tank is displayed in a two-digit counter, as dictated by Metroid tradition. Retro has redone the visor and beam icons in color, though the interface remains the same.

The game features graphics enhanced with even more visual flair. In the same single-player screen, an enemy, likely a Space Pirate, features detailed textures and impressive modeling. Another screen, likely taken from a cut-scene, is centered on what looks like a giant three-headed worm. Yet another screen in the magazine shows Samus floating in mid-air, surrounded by a bubble reflecting her image. The bubble is contained within a metal ring, suggesting it is either some sort of teleportation or power-up device.

Finally, one screenshot introduces a new character wearing a grey suit strangely similar to Samus's own and shooting downward toward the camera. Have the pirates finally cracked the secret of Samus's power suit? It looks quite possible!

Official details on Metroid Prime 2 will be revealed during Nintendo's pre-E3 press conference.  

[Square Enix announces the first details on Final Fantasy I & II Advance for the Game Boy Advance on its teaser site.]

609

TalkBack / Final Fantasy I & II Advance Details Revealed

« on: April 12, 2004, 12:29:36 PM »

Square Enix announces the first details on Final Fantasy I & II Advance for the Game Boy Advance on its teaser site.

Square Enix has published the beginnings of its Japanese Final Fantasy I & II Advance website, and with it come the first concrete details on the collection’s enhancements to the originals.

Much like Enix’s Dragon Warrior I & II for Game Boy Color, Final Fantasy I & II on the GBA features updated graphics and tweaked gameplay mechanics.  The remake supplements the originals’ magic stocks with a more modern magic point system and includes a convenient save-anywhere feature.

The two-in-one cart also boasts completely new content.  [Highlight to read spoilers.] Square Enix has added a new dungeon, named the “Soul of Chaos,” to Final Fantasy I, which holds shiny new treasures, like the Ultima Weapon, and classic bosses from multiple Final Fantasy games.  Final Fantasy II will contain a new plotline called the “Soul of Rebirth,” where players control NPC’s Ming-Wu, Scott, Joseph, and Richard, who all die in the main story.

Final Fantasy I & II is scheduled for a July release in Japan.  Plans for an international release have not been announced, but are expected to surface at E3 next month.

[Brush up on your gaming history while checking out its future.]

610

TalkBack / History of Video Games at E3

« on: April 07, 2004, 02:37:40 PM »

Brush up on your gaming history while checking out its future.

From Astrosmash to Halo and Beyond! Intellivision Announces E3-Electronic Entertainment Expo's First Ever ``History of Video Games'' Museum  

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 7, 2004--To commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), Intellivision Productions has joined forces with the organizers of the Classic Gaming Expo (CGE) in creating a multimedia, interactive museum called "The History of Video Games." Located in Kentia Hall, the museum is open to all E3 attendees during the expo, May 12-14. Intellivision's own original game programmers, the Blue Sky Rangers, creators of such classic games as Astrosmash, Space Armada, and Night Stalker will be on hand to speak about the early days of the video game industry and their involvement in the video game revolution.  

Encompassing more than 2,000-square ft., the "History of Video Games" museum will delve into the rich annals of video gaming history, starting with the Magnavox Odyssey, the first-ever home video game system. The museum will also feature the early 1980s consoles such as the Atari 2600, the Intellivision and Colecovision and move on to today's multi-faceted home gaming systems. Nearly every video game console, as well as their respective game collections and stories behind how they were created, will be on hand for attendees to play. Attendees will even experience a "time warp" into a classic 1980s-style living room, experiencing the full effect of playing these classic home video games for themselves.  

"Intellivision is extremely excited and proud to be the sponsor of the 'History of Video Games' museum," said Keith Robinson, president/co-founder of Intellivision Productions, Inc. and an original game programmer for Intellivision. "The guys at the Classic Gaming Expo have a deep affection for the history and the games that started it all and have always been a strong supporter of Intellivision Productions. We are thrilled to give attendees the opportunity to learn how this whole video game craziness started, as well as give them the opportunity to play the original games that are now the forefathers to the ones they play on today's consoles."  

In addition to the home gaming consoles, the "History of Video Games" museum will feature more than 30 classic stand-up arcade games, all available for attendees to play. These stand-up arcade games are the original arcade machines found in every pizza place, liquor store and shopping mall during the arcade "hey day" of the 1980s. Attendees will have a chance to relive their high scoring days on such games as Donkey Kong, Ms. Pac-Man, and Tempest. One unique display will feature the first home computer systems, such as the Apple II and Commodore 64. Attendees will be able to view and play these precursors to today's popular PC gaming systems. With the blocky graphics and beeping sound effects, attendees will be quick to realize that times certainly have changed!  

The "History of Video Games" museum is located in Kentia Hall and will be open all three days of the E3 Expo, May 12-14.

[Road Trip: Shifting Gears follows its GameCube counter-part to stores.]

611

TalkBack / Conspiracy GBA Racer Released

« on: April 07, 2004, 02:16:16 PM »

Road Trip: Shifting Gears follows its GameCube counter-part to stores.

Conspiracy Entertainment's 'Road Trip: Shifting Gears' Zooming in on the Nintendo Game Boy Advance

SANTA MONICA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 6, 2004--Conspiracy Entertainment (OTCBB:CPYE) today announced the release of the Game Boy Advance multiplayer racing adventure game, Road Trip: Shifting Gears.

A Game Boy Advance continuation of the successful Road Trip series, this new title is a racing adventure with all the same white-knuckle thrills and features more of everything gamers loved in the console originals, including new cars, power-ups, and journeys. The game also has the ability to link to the Road Trip: Arcade Edition on GameCube (see below) for even more surprises. It comes with a suggested retail price of $19.99.

"Road Trip: Shifting Gears is a smart gaming investment that will return hours and hours of gaming fun and excitement," says Conspiracy CEO Sirus Ahmadi. "Any gamer, seasoned vet or first-timer, will get right into the adventure. Plus, all the detailed vehicle customizations that are possible makes the price point even more appealing."

In Road Trip: Shifting Gears, players have full control over car customization, down to the most minute detail with a state-of-the-art body paint shop, over 100 different parts, and numerous fantasy attachments. The Road Trip experience gets even deeper as players compete in 150 racing events, minigames, and over 64 awesome courses. 1-4 player racing action enables rowdy simultaneous group races and limitless action.

Road Trip: The Arcade Edition (on GameCube and already in distribution), offers gamers a true adventure on wheels, with some of the most intense arcade-style racing. Players can customize over 100 different vehicles and choose from 100 different racing venues. Additionally, this GameCube version offers a bevy of new features, including cars, courses, power-ups AND the ability to link to its Game Boy(R) Advance counterpart, Road Trip: Shifting Gears.

Both Road Trip: Shifting Gears and Road Trip: Arcade Edition were developed by Japanese developer Takara.

[carlos_]

612

Podcast Discussion / Radio Trivia Results for 04/02/2004

« on: April 03, 2004, 08:46:17 PM »

After three tie-breaker songs and two tie-breaker questions, TYP declared Friday’s Radio Trivia a draw between carlos_ and AV-Cables!  Check out all the details, including an inside joke for Radio Trivia regulars!


Game 1: Super Mario Land 2 (GB)

Points to: SimBen, TKnHappyNess, Arrow, AV-Cables, carlos_

Q: Who composed the songs you just heard?
<NikJam> Kazumi Totaka


Game 2: Super Castlevania 4 (SNES)

Points to: carlos_, NikJam, AV-Cables, Arrow, FFantasyFX

Q: What is the name of the knight boss with an axe?
<SS4Gogita> Sir Grakul


Game 3: Dragon Quest/Warrior II (NES)

Point to: FFantasyFX

Q: Where and from whom might you get a Golden Key?
<MrPanda> dog in zahan


-----HALFTIME-----
Fraggle Rock Theme Song
-----HALFTIME-----


Game 4: Mario Golf (GBC)

Points to: carlos_, AV-Cables

Q: According to the in-game dictionary, what is a common nickname for a 4 Wood?
<Arrow> baffy


Game 5: Speedy Gonzales-Los Gatos Bandidos (SNES)

Points to: MrPanda, SimBen

Q: Who voiced Speedy Gonzales in the classic Warner Bros. cartoons?
<NikJam> mel blanc


4-Way tie-between NikJam, Arrow, AV-Cables, carlos_

Tie-breaker 1: Fire Emblem (GBA)
(All guesses correct)

Tie-breaker 2: Secret of Mana (SNES)
Correct: carlos_ AV-Cables

Tie-breaker 3: The Legend of Zelda: The Four Swords (GBA)
(Both Correct)


Tie-breaker Q 1: What does Wario hypnotize you with in his Wairo Land (1) Commercial?
A: Watch (Neither correct)

Tie-breaker Q 2: In Paper Mario, which badge prevents dizziness and paralysis?
A: Feelin’ Fine (Neither correct)

Tie between carlos_, AV-Cables


-----RESULTS-----

AV-Cables: 3 + Tie-breaker

carlos_: 3 + Tie-breaker

Arrow: 3

NikJam: 3

SimBen: 2

MrPanda: 2

FFinalFantasyFX: 2

TKnHappyNess: 1

SS4Gogita: 1

[Capcom announces plans for a promising new development studio.]

613

TalkBack / Capcom Founds Clover Studio

« on: March 31, 2004, 02:00:24 PM »

Capcom announces plans for a promising new development studio.

Much of Capcom’s talent will have a new home when a new Osaka-based development studio opens shop on July 1st.  Capcom has invested 90 million yen into a new fully-owned subsidiary named Clover Studios.

Managerial roles will be filled by key Capcom personalities, most importantly Viewtiful Joe producer Atsushi Inaba as president and CEO.  Other high positions will be filled by  Kenzo Tsujimoto (president and chairman of Capcom Co., Ltd.), Yoshifumi Yamashita (Director - Zelda: Oracle of Ages/Seasons), Haruhiro Tsujimoto (Senior Managing Directors and COO of Capcom Co., Ltd.), Tamio Oda (Managing Director of Capcom Co., Ltd)., Shinji Utsunomiya (Designer – Resident Evil), and Ryuta Takahashi (Software Engineer - Resident Evil).  Clover Studio will consist of sixty-four people in total.

Capcom has made no announcements as to what types of games Clover Studio will pursue.  However, with so many key employees having worked on Nintendo systems in the recent past, development for one of Nintendo’s current or upcoming platforms is a distinct possibility.

[The Game Initiative announces a day-long workshop on how to join the gaming industry, held days before E3 2004 in Los Angeles.]

614

TalkBack / Gaming Resume/Job Workshop Announced

« on: March 29, 2004, 10:30:22 AM »

The Game Initiative announces a day-long workshop on how to join the gaming industry, held days before E3 2004 in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles How To Break Into Video Game Industry: Conference and Resume Workshop to Take Place May 8th (right before E3)

An event for artists, programmers, writers, musicians, designers and others seeking to get into the computer and video game industry.

AUSTIN, Texas, March 29, 2004 – The Game Initiative today announced its “Los Angeles How To Break Into Video Game Industry: Conference and Resume Workshop” will take place in Los Angeles May 8, 2004 at Mount St. Mary’s College just days before the annual Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) show. The event is designed for artists, programmers, writers, musicians, designers and others looking to get into the computer and video game business. Attendees will have the opportunity to speak with industry insiders, including top recruiter Mary-Margaret.com, hiring managers from local game companies as well as network and meet with industry veterans.

“The game industry generates more revenue annually than Hollywood’s movie industry and many are asking how to get into the business,” said Christopher Sherman, Game Initiative Executive Director. “This comprehensive program will identify trends and requirements as well as the qualifications and skill-sets that are in demand in the game industry. The casual nature of this event allows attendees an unprecedented opportunity to interact with industry veterans, ask questions, gain valuable contacts and understand the business.”

Professional and creative talent looking to move into the business from other industries will learn how their experience and transferable skills can gain rapid entry into the Game industry. Students will learn how to build an early professional road map to a career in the game industry. The event will also provide a great opportunity for local game companies to meet potential new talent. New to this event is the Demo Reel Showcase, where attendees will be able to bring their laptops to showcase their demo reels to industry insiders for direct feedback and job opportunities.  

How To Break Into Video Game Industry – Los Angeles - Agenda

8:30am - 9:00am Registration and Networking  
9:00am - 9:45am Industry Overview
10:00am - 10:45am Getting in at the Ground Floor
11:00am - 12:00pm Applying Transferable Skill Sets
12:00pm - 1:30pm Networking
1:30pm - 3:00pm Resume Workshop  

The cost is $60 in advance or $75 at the door. The event takes place at Mount St. Mary’s College in Los Angeles in the Little Theater on the Chalon Campus. Registration is available online at http://www.thegameinitiative.com/labreakin/index.html  The event is sponsored in part by the University of Advancing Technology.

How To Break Into Video Game Industry attendees will:

• Find out what employers are looking for now and in the future
• Learn how the game development pipeline works
• Receive an overview of the industry and where it’s headed
• Understand the core competencies required in art, programming and design
• Meet and network with professionals in the industry
• Participate in a resume workshop designed to gain them critical interviews with hiring managers.

[Australians can get a free Player's Choice game AND a copy of the Zelda Bonus Disc when they buy a GameCube from now until the end of April.]

615

TalkBack / Free Player's Choice Title with GC in Australia

« on: March 26, 2004, 03:21:28 PM »

Australians can get a free Player's Choice game AND a copy of the Zelda Bonus Disc when they buy a GameCube from now until the end of April.

BONUS PLAYER’S CHOICE GAME OFFER  

Melbourne, Australia, March 26th 2004 – Nintendo Australia is pleased to announce that when a consumer purchases one Nintendo GameCube Hardware unit they can choose from one of the Player’s Choice games (listed below) as a bonus:

Metroid™ Prime  Super Smash Bros.™ Melee  Star Fox Adventures™  Super Mario Sunshine™  Luigi’s Mansion™  Pikmin™ *offer closes Friday, 30th April 2004

THE LEGEND OF ZELDA COLLECTOR’S EDITION DISC

...but it doesn't stop there... as an added bonus, when consumers purchase one Nintendo GameCube Hardware unit, they will receive, packed in with the hardware, The Legend of Zelda Collector’s Edition Disc. This includes 4 x Classic Zelda games as well as a playable demo of The Legend of Zelda®: The Wind Waker™.

Classic Zelda games included:  

The Legend of Zelda®, Zelda® II  The Adventure of Link®  The Legend of Zelda®: Ocarina of Time®  The Legend of Zelda®: Majora’s Mask®. 'MEMBER EXCLUSIVE' INTERNET OFFER - Current and new members of the nintendo.com.au website are also eligible to receive The Legend of Zelda Collector’s Edition disc as a gift. For further details click here.

[The NPD Group reports increased sales of online-capable console games.]

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TalkBack / NPD Reports on Online-Capable Game Sales

« on: March 25, 2004, 10:37:42 PM »

The NPD Group reports increased sales of online-capable console games.

THE NPD GROUP REPORTS SIGNIFICANT GROWTH OF ONLINE-CAPABLE VIDEO GAME SALES FOR CONSOLES

2003 Sales of Online-Capable Console Games Exceed $1 Billion

PORT WASHINGTON, NY, March 24, 2004 - According to leading marketing information provider, The NPD Group, U.S. retail sales of online-capable console video games exceeded $1 billion in 2003, a 167 percent increase over 2002. The number of units sold in 2003 exceeded 23 million, a 182 percent increase over the previous year. Since the category's introduction in 2000, online-capable console video games have sold over 33 million units, bringing in over $1.5 billion.

Almost all of the growth in the online-capable console game category has occurred in the past two years. Sales of these games, which include titles for Sony Corp.'s Playstation 2, Microsoft Corp.'s X-Box and Nintendo Co. Ltd.'s GameCube, have seen the majority of sales in the shooter and sport games super genres, with sport games leading the charge. In 2002, sport games commanded 69 percent of the online-capable video games market, while the shooter genre captured 22 percent. In 2003, sport games claimed 51 percent of the market, while shooter games remained at 22 percent. However, other genres began forming the online-capable video games landscape in 2003 with racing games taking 15 percent and role playing games taking 4 percent.

With every new year comes renewed hope from developers working to bring their online worlds into the homes of console gamers. And though a lot of money goes into the development of online video games, most software developers are careful to offer both online and offline gameplay options with every title, which in turn gives the consumer the final word on how the game is to be played.

"It's important to note that the increase in sales for online-capable games does not mean that the masses are moving to online gameplay," said Richard Ow, senior industry analyst, The NPD Group. "In some cases, consumers aren't necessarily aware they're buying games with online capabilities, but whether they're aware or they aren't, the onus falls in the laps of the software developers to provide games with multiple playability features."

Most online-capable video games offer two methods of play: the player can choose to play the game offline; or, with the proper Internet connection and/or subscription service, the player can go online and play with hundreds or thousands of game players in real-time.

"The challenge to the console gaming industry can be more attributed to the expanding demographic," explains Ow. "According to The NPD Group's Consumer Panel, more than half of the console gamers are 17 years old and younger, which means these gamers, who do not have access to credit cards, must rely on their parents to fund their online gaming habits. This is one of the reasons why most development teams tread cautiously in the world of online gaming. However, by providing first-rate titles with rich graphics, compelling content and online as well as offline capabilities, gamers of all ages and income levels can take advantage of these games."

[Pikmin 2’s boxart may hint at a previously undisclosed feature…]

617

TalkBack / Pikmin 2 to Support the e-Card Reader?

« on: March 18, 2004, 07:51:10 AM »

Pikmin 2’s boxart may hint at a previously undisclosed feature…

A rather interesting logo can be seen on Pikmin 2’s Japanese boxart on the bottom right:

The logo resembles a GBA with an e-Reader attached to a GameCube.  Nintendo has yet to comment on the game’s e-Reader support, but potential uses range from unlocking or uploading special items to new game maps.  (Pikmin 2 featured a random game map generator at E3 2003 in cooperative mode.)  Nintendo will most likely disclose details on Pikmin 2 and its e-Reader cards during E3 2004 in May.

[To celebrate its popularity last year, THQ’s Finding Nemo is now only $20 on the Xbox and GameCube.]

618

TalkBack / Finding Nemo Joins Players Choice Collection

« on: March 16, 2004, 07:18:13 AM »

To celebrate its popularity last year, THQ’s Finding Nemo is now only $20 on the Xbox and GameCube.

Best-Selling "Finding Nemo" Videogame Added to "Family Platinum Series" for Xbox and "Players Choice" For Nintendo GameCube  

CALABASAS HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 16, 2004--

"Finding Nemo" Videogames Finish 2003 as the Best-Selling Family Game of the Year

THQ Inc. (Nasdaq: THQI) and Disney Interactive today announced that the videogames based on the Walt Disney Pictures presentation of a Pixar Animation Studios film "Finding Nemo" will be added to both the Nintendo GameCube(TM) "Players Choice" collection and "Family Platinum Series" for the Xbox(TM) videogame system from Microsoft. "Finding Nemo" is one of the first third-party titles based on a family license to be recognized on Xbox as a top seller. "Finding Nemo" for Xbox and Nintendo GameCube is now available at retail outlets across North America for the suggested retail price of $19.99.

"The `Finding Nemo' videogames have been a tremendous hit for THQ at retail with worldwide sales of 4 million units across multiple platforms and in more than 40 international territories," said Peter Dille, senior vice president, worldwide marketing, THQ. "We are thrilled the game will be included in both the Xbox `Family Platinum Series' and the Nintendo GameCube `Players Choice' collection, extending the experience to a new segment of the game buying audience."

"We are pleased with the continued achievements of `Finding Nemo' and we would like to congratulate the entire team at THQ, Pixar, and Disney Interactive for making the games such a success," said Graham Hopper, senior vice president and General Manager, Buena Vista Games.

The "Finding Nemo" videogames follow the adventures of Nemo and his marine-life friends. The games are set in a 3-D underwater environment and allow players to play key movie characters, Nemo, Marlin and Dory, each with varied abilities. Gamers will explore several levels, including mini games and bonus levels.

THQ will also publish a second "Finding Nemo" game for Game Boy(R) Advance scheduled to release this fall.

About "Finding Nemo"

The Academy Award(R)-winning creators of "Toy Story," "A Bug's Life" and "Monsters, Inc." take the art and technology of computer animation to a whole new level in this stunning underwater adventure with memorable characters, humor and heartfelt emotion. "Finding Nemo" follows the comedic and eventful journeys of two fish -- Marlin and his son Nemo -- who become separated in the Great Barrier Reef. Buoyed by the companionship of a friendly-but-forgetful fish named Dory, the overly cautious father embarks on a dangerous trek and finds himself the unlikely hero of an epic journey to rescue his son -- who hatches a few daring plans of his own to return safely home.

[Ubisoft's next stealth-action game will reach stores soon...but not the GameCube version.]

619

TalkBack / Splinter Cell Pandora Tomorrow for GBA Ships

« on: March 15, 2004, 10:21:40 AM »

Ubisoft's next stealth-action game will reach stores soon...but not the GameCube version.

Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell® Pandora Tomorrow(tm) Goes Gold

Revolutionary Stealth-Action Phenomenon Expected to Hit Store Shelves Soon  

San Francisco, CA - March 15, 2004 - Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, announced today that Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Pandora Tomorrow has reached gold master status for the PC, Xbox, and Game Boy® Advance and is expected to arrive on store shelves March 27th.  Developed by Ubisoft's Shanghai studio, Splinter Cell Pandora Tomorrow tells the conspiracy-ridden story of black ops agent Sam Fisher as he explores the shadowy world of international espionage.

 

With an offline story as compelling as the original Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell® and a revolutionary online component for the Xbox and PC, Splinter Cell Pandora Tomorrow is one of the most anticipated games of 2004. On Xbox(tm) Live or over the Internet on the PC, gamers will experience a revolution in online gameplay: for the first time in gaming, players can play from a third-person perspective against others playing in first person. In third-person perspective, play as a SHADOWNET spy achieving Third Echelon's objectives as you infiltrate hostile ground. From a first-person point of view, play as an ARGUS mercenary, tracking and eliminating the intruding SHADOWNET spies. This innovation in perspectives allows the online game to create an incredible tension totally new to gaming.  

 About Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Pandora Tomorrow
Inspired by the world of Tom Clancy, Splinter Cell Pandora Tomorrow centers around the story of Sam Fisher, a lone operative waging a one-man war against an Indonesian terrorist network. Empowered with the Fifth Freedom - the right to spy, steal, destroy and assassinate to protect his country - Fisher embarks on a mission that will take him to the farthest corners of the globe and into the shadowy world of international espionage, where he encounters numerous threats and faces the question, "Whom can you trust?"  

Product Facts
 Product Name: Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Pandora Tomorrow
Format: Xbox, PC, Game Boy Advance
 Launch Date: March '04
Retail price: $49.99
Publisher: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Shanghai Studios
 Category: Third-person, stealth action
 # of Players: One offline: TBA online
ESRB Rating: T for TEEN with Blood, Drug Reference and Violence
 Website: http://www.splintercell.com, http://www.pandoratomorrow.com  

[Kodak's new Stereoscopic Imaging Display would be ideal for a new Virtual Boy...]

620

TalkBack / Kodak Demonstrates new 3-D Display at GDC

« on: March 15, 2004, 10:10:24 AM »

Kodak's new Stereoscopic Imaging Display would be ideal for a new Virtual Boy...

Kodak Demonstrates Revolutionary 3-D Display System; Ideal System for Gaming, Entertainment and Other Intensive Visualization Tasks  

Exhibitor Show 2004  Game Developers Conference

ROCHESTER, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 15, 2004--Eastman Kodak Company today showcased a significant innovation that allows video-game players, earth scientists and a host of others to experience three-dimensional images without glasses or headgear of any type - creating the sensation of actually being a part of the image.  

 Kodak will introduce a commercial prototype of its Stereoscopic Imaging Display system at the Exhibitor Show 2004 in Las Vegas, Nevada, March 15-17, in Booth #1514 at the Mandalay Bay Exhibition Center. Kodak also plans to demonstrate the Stereoscopic Imaging Display system at the upcoming Game Developers Conference in San Jose, California, March 24-26, in Booth #944 at the San Jose Convention Center.  

The Stereoscopic Imaging Display system produces a wide field of view, three-dimensional (3D) stereo image. The superior quality of the Kodak system provides an ideal display for intensive visualization tasks, such as oil and gas exploration, molecular and chemical modeling, computer-aided design, entertainment and gaming, and many other applications.  

The system represents the first initiative from Kodak's New Business Ventures Group, which is responsible for commercializing break-through technology developed by the company's Research & Development organization.  

"Unlike other 3D imaging systems, which rely on a barrier screen placed over an existing monitor, the Kodak display is an entirely new concept," said Lawrence Henderson, vice president and director, new business ventures, Eastman Kodak Company. "Kodak's Stereoscopic Imaging Display system maintains full image resolution and creates a very wide field of view. The display brings a new level of realism to the 3D visual experience, capitalizing on Kodak's extensive research and development."  

Kodak is currently seeking partners and early-stage customers for the system, and will provide licenses to the technology for integration into third-party products and systems.  

How it Works  

The user sits in front of a system that creates a virtual image of two high-resolution LCD displays, one for each eye. The user looks into two "floating balls of light" that provide each eye a view of a magnified image of a display. The combination of the wide field of view and virtual image eliminates the sources of eyestrain found in other autostereoscopic systems. Kodak's Stereoscopic Imaging Display system also has a unique viewing zone, which makes it easy to see the "sweet spot" of an image while maintaining image quality across the entire viewing zone.  

The desktop display has a field of view that measures 45 degrees by 36 degrees, and a resolution of 1280 x 1024 pixels. The user peers through a large, 32 mm viewing pupils that gives the viewer the feeling of floating in a movie theater about 1.5 screen heights away from the screen. Kodak can adjust the scale of this system to increase or reduce the display resolution to meet various applications.  

The Kodak autostereoscopic display breaks new technical ground in the field of stereo imaging. The unique Ball Lens Technology behind the display is summarized in a paper presented at the 2003 Stereoscopic Displays and Applications conference. This paper is available upon request.  

[AIAS and partners will host a computer and videogame art contest "Into the Pixel" to celebrate the show's tenth anniversary!]

621

TalkBack / Art and Gaming Join Hands at E3

« on: March 11, 2004, 05:26:41 PM »

AIAS and partners will host a computer and videogame art contest "Into the Pixel" to celebrate the show's tenth anniversary!

E3EXPO, A.I.A.S. AND L.A. COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART'S GRAPHIC ARTS COUNCIL ANNOUNCE CALL FOR ENTRIES FOR NEW "INTO THE PIXEL" DIGITAL GAME ART EXHIBITION

Juried Exhibition at E3Expo 2004 Will Showcase How Digital and Traditional Art Worlds Increasingly Intersect

LOS ANGELES - March 11, 2004 - In celebration of its tenth anniversary, the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3Expo) today announced a call for entries for "Into the Pixel," a juried exhibition of computer and video game art to premiere at this year's E3Expo, May 12-14, at the Los Angeles Convention Center (LACC). "Into the Pixel" is a celebration of video game art curated by interactive entertainment industry art veterans and experts from the traditional art field.

Computer and video games are an extremely influential aspect of pop-culture and entertainment which impacts perspectives on a wide range of areas of our culture, including art, cinematography, literature and even fashion. "Into the Pixel" seeks to explore the artistic achievements of today's computer and video game artists and the place their work holds in the realm of art as it is traditionally defined.

"Into the Pixel" is a joint project of E3Expo, The Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences, and The Graphic Arts Council of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The show will take place at the LACC and be accessible to the general public as well as to the more than 60,000 interactive entertainment industry executives, designers, developers, animators, journalists and retailers who attend E3Expo.

Eligibility/Deadline: Art submissions must be taken from published, or soon to be published, computer and video games. Entry for "Into the Pixel" is open to Academy members and E3Expo exhibiting companies. Artists may submit up to three original works. Deadline is April 5, 2004. Artists may contact pixelquestions@e3expo.com for more information.

Jury members include:

Matt Gleason, COAGULA Art Journal Mat Gleason founded Coagula Art Journal in 1992 and continues as its editor and publisher today. The New York Times described him as a famously provocative Los Angeles art critic, while the L.A. Weekly once referred to him as a cranky, self-exiled gossipmonger. Along with John Baldessari, Dave Hickey and Agnes Martin, Gleason starred in the 1998 art world documentary "Art City: Simplicity."

Jim Heimann, Editor in Charge, TASCHEN - World of Pop Culture Jim Heimann is a graphic designer, writer, historian and instructor at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. He is the author of numerous books on architecture, popular culture, and Hollywood history and serves as a consultant to the entertainment industry. He continues to write on popular culture, regional history and architecture for numerous publications including TASCHEN, the Los Angeles Times and Rolling Stone.

David Perry, Shiny Entertainment David Perry, the president and founder of Shiny Entertainment, has been a gaming industry visionary for the past 20 years. Shiny's most recent project was "Enter the Matrix," based on the sequel to the blockbuster action thriller "The Matrix" from Warner Bros and directors Larry and Andy Wachowski.

Jason Rubin, Executive Juror, Naughty Dog Jason Rubin, co-founder of Naughty Dog, has developed games since 1985. Rubin, partner Andy Gavin and the Naughty Dog team are responsible for the creation and development of the first four "Crash Bandicoot" titles.

Billy Shire, La Luz de Jesus Gallery Native Los Angeleno Billy Shire is best known as the prodigious owner of the Soap Plant, Wacko stores and La Luz de Jesus Gallery. Shire's gallery, La Luz de Jesus, is one of the most important, groundbreaking galleries in Los Angeles and has garnered a considerable reputation with collectors, galleries and artists around the world.

[NCL’s free JoySpot service for the GBA Wireless Adapter begins on March 25th. Is this the future of handheld networked gaming?]

622

TalkBack / NCL Prepares Wireless GBA Network

« on: March 11, 2004, 09:40:27 AM »

NCL’s free JoySpot service for the GBA Wireless Adapter begins on March 25th.  Is this the future of handheld networked gaming?

Nintendo announced today that its previously announced JoySpot service goes live in less than two weeks.  Consisting of wireless base stations—also known as hot spots—at retail locations around the country, JoySpot acts as a miniature server and hub for GBA games supporting the wireless adapter.

Pokémon Fire Red & Leaf Green is currently the only game on the market supporting the wireless adapter, bundled with every copy of Fire/Green.  Players can download news from the JoySpot station in Pokémon Fire/Leaf via the virtual JoySpot kiosks in most of the game’s stores (though it requires a four-word password).  Players can also take part in special JoySpot challenge battles among other gamers within the station’s range by talking to them in the union room.  Screenshots and details of how to connect can be found on Nintendo’s official Japanese Pokémon site.  Mario Golf: Advance Tour, scheduled for an April 22nd release in Japan, will be the second compatible Game Boy Advance game.

Nintendo’s current JoySpot service could be the beginning of a bigger plan—at least for Japan.  Upcoming wireless technology may drastically increase the range of Nintendo’s JoySpot stations, making it possible to connect without leaving one’s house.  This would create, in essence, an online gaming network independent of a household’s Internet access!  Such an alternative to traditional network connections would be unlikely outside of Japan’s densely populated locales; NOA and NOE would have to create equivalent internet-based alternatives for their respective territories.

[Hearings continue on whether Nintendo of America must change its policies on preventing seizures.]

623

TalkBack / Nintendo Sued, Settles Seizure Case

« on: March 08, 2004, 07:55:13 PM »

Hearings continue on whether Nintendo of America must change its policies on preventing seizures.

Last July St. Martinville Mayor Eric Martin brought Nintendo of America to federal court after his son had a seizure, which he claims was triggered by a Nintendo game.  According to the family’s claims, Nintendo’s current labels do not adequately warn consumers of the potential dangers of playing their games.

Hearings on the law suit continued last month, until Nintendo settled for an undisclosed amount after the third day in front of a jury.  During the hearing Nintendo acknowledged that certain patterns of light can cause epileptic seizures in a small percentage of the population, and pointed out its investment into the study of epilepsy, both internally and through the funding of independent studies.  Nintendo also pointed out that it follows voluntary guidelines instituted in 1999 that have effectively reduced seizures, including the frequency and intensity of lights in its games.  The company also stated its opinion that epileptic seizures are caused by a pre-existing susceptibility, not a videogame.

Although the bulk of the trial ended Thursday, another professional witness on epilepsy will give his testimony later this month.  Following the final transcript’s completion, Judge Richard Haik will give Nintendo and Martin’s lawyers 45 days to complete and file their arguments based on the evidence and Federal law.

The judge will then determine whether Nintendo can be held accountable for the uncommon videogame-related seizure.  The biggest question of debate is whether Nintendo’s precautions and preventative steps are enough, according to law, to make the company legally irresponsible for the rare videogame-induced epileptic seizure.

If Judge Haik finds Nintendo guilty of not providing reasonable warning to its consumers, the videogame giant may have to change one or more of its policies.  The plaintiff has submitted some very significant demands to the judge, including warnings in-game, reformatting all games to reduce risk, a seizure-threat ranking system, and a trade-back/refund system for those who don’t want their highly-rated games anymore.

[carlos_]

624

Podcast Discussion / Prize Radio Trivia Results for 3/5/2004

« on: March 05, 2004, 06:49:21 PM »

Points were a rarity tonight, but carlos_ managed three of them for the gold and his very own copy of Super Mario Bros. on DVD!


Game 1: Crystalis (NES)

Point to: carlos_

Q: Name four Nintendo Software Technology games that have been released in North America. (SPELLING COUNTS!)
<Mikemn> wave race: blue storm, ridge racer 64, pokemon puzzle league, 1080 avalanche


Game 2: Raiden Trad (SNES)

Point to: Squiggles

Q: The “H” Powerup gives you what, again?
<Serenity_Now> Homing Missle


Game 3: HAL’s Hole-in-One Golf (SNES)

(No Points Awarded)

Q: Name two other SNES games published by Hal of America?  (English names only, Spelling counts!)
<ulanshad> Hyperzone Arcana


-----HALFTIME-----
Mystical Ninja Starring Goemon - I am Impact! (Arranged version)
Donkey Kong Country Strolling The Mines OC ReMix (Rapture)
-----HALFTIME-----


Game 4: Wario Land 3 (GBC)

Points to: Chiphead, bario, carlos_, berto2K, Minty

Q: What is peculiar about the game save messages in Wario Land 3?  (North American version)
<MrPanda> Japanese under English


Game 5: Top Gun (NES)

Point to: carlos_

Q: What is the full name of the airplane you pilot in this game?
<NikJam> F-14 Tomcat



-----RESULTS-----

carlos_: 3

Mikemn: 1

Serenity_Now: 1

Ulanshad: 1

Chiphead: 1

Bario: 1

berto2K: 1

Minty: 1

MrPanda: 1

NikJam: 1

Squiggles: 1

[As they say, the third time's the charm!]

625

TalkBack / Skies of Arcadia Legends Re-release in Japan

« on: March 05, 2004, 12:39:06 PM »

As they say, the third time's the charm!

In the year 2000, Overworks and Sega released Skies of Arcadia, a critically acclaimed traditional RPG, for the Dreamcast.  The title sold less than expected on Sega’s faltering system, and, confident in the game’s quality, the companies brought an extended version of the game to the GameCube early last year.  Unfortunately, Skies of Arcadia Legends (known as Eternal Arcadia Legends in Japan) suffered from the same lackluster performance in stores as its older Dreamcast brother and remained largely unappreciated.

In spite of poor sales around the world, Sega and Overworks (now part of Sega Wow) refuse to give up.  Sega is releasing an “inexpensive version” of their cult classic in Japan for the low, low price of 2,800 yen (around $25 USD) on May 20.

The development team has previously expressed interest in continuing the Skies of Arcadia saga, citing poor sales as their only major deterrant.  A successful re-release of the GameCube title could be the green light Sega Wow has been waiting for.