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Topics - Jonnyboy117

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1101
TalkBack / Hobbit PC Demo Available
« on: October 15, 2003, 08:59:53 AM »
Try out the upcoming Hobbit game on your PC before deciding whether to buy it on GameCube.

Vivendi Universal Games and Sierra are hosting the PC demo of their upcoming game based on J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit.  You can download it at the link above.  The file is 169MB, so you probably don't want to attempt it unless you've got a broadband connection.  The download page also has system requirements for the demo.


Originally announced as an exclusive GameCube title, The Hobbit has been delayed several times so that it could be expanded to all the major platforms.  Barring anymore delays, it will be released in November on GameCube, PS2, Xbox, PC, and Game Boy Advance.


1102
TalkBack / "Who Are You?" Theater Trailer
« on: October 13, 2003, 03:20:00 PM »
Check out the commercial Nintendo will be airing in movie theaters all over America this fall.

Nintendo's official website has posted its upcoming theatrical trailer for the new "Who Are You?" advertising campaign.  You can download the sixty-second trailer in three formats by going to the link above.


The ad takes place entirely in Japan and shows schoolchildren rushing out of class after a long day at school.  They all seem to be racing somewhere, and some students exhibit powers like flight and enhanced agility.  Finally, everyone congregates in front of a store that has just begun selling Nintendo games.  An employee posting the sign turns to look at the crowd, whose heads have now been replaced with the heads of various Nintendo characters.


Nintendo also has a new website devoted to the marketing campaign, which you can view at http://www.nintendo.com/whoareyou.


Thanks to SuperLink666 for the tip!


1103
TalkBack / Nintendo Sued by Wizards of the Coast
« on: October 13, 2003, 02:19:39 PM »
The creators of the Pokemon trading card game are suing Nintendo of America and Pokemon USA.

According to a weekend article in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Wizards of the Coast has filed a suit against Nintendo of America, Pokemon USA, The Pokemon Company, and two executives.  Wizards created the Pokemon trading card game and oversaw the product for years until Pokemon USA recently absorbed those operations.  Wizards of the Coast produces several other card games, including Magic: The Gathering.


The lawsuit alleges that Pokemon USA and Nintendo undermined their relationship with Wizards of the Coast, apparently so that the once-lucrative Pokemon card business could be transferred and rebuilt under Nintendo's umbrella.  The suit also makes accusations of patent infringement and mishandling of trade secrets.


At the heart of the matter are two executives who once worked at Wizards but eventually were hired by Pokemon USA.  The lawsuit basically says that these people went to Nintendo and gave away various information that they were bound to keep secret by non-disclosure agreements with Wizards.


Nintendo of America has denied any wrongdoing.  The various companies involved are currently discussing a settlement.  You can read more about the case at the link above.


1104
TalkBack / Konami Creates US Studio
« on: October 13, 2003, 01:17:58 PM »
Konami Digital Entertainment will make its home in Los Angeles.

KONAMI ESTABLISHES NEW COMPUTER & VIDEOGAMES OPERATION BASED IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA


Konami Strengthens its Global Content Business


 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


LOS ANGELES, CA - October 13, 2003 - Konami Corporation has established a strong foundation in the global computer and video games industry. To further increase its global market share, Konami Corporation (NYSE: KNM) will strengthen its content planning and production by expanding its operations to Los Angeles, California, which will become the base for Konami's global Computer & Video Games Business. Under the new name of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. (KDE), the Los Angeles operation will be led by the Executive Corporate Officer of Konami's Computer & Video Games Business, Kazumi Kitaue, who will serve as the Chief Executive Officer. KDE will focus on the areas of global product brand growth strategies, business development and licensing activities.


The company will also rename its Redwood City, California-based North American sales, marketing, and operations subsidiary, Konami of America, Inc., to Konami Digital Entertainment America (KDEA), a Division of Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc.


Regarding the expansion, Kitaue said, "Los Angeles is known as the center for worldwide entertainment.  We believe that Los Angeles is the ideal location for strengthening Konami's content business strategy.  This move will provide us with the proximity to the partners that will allow us to maintain and expand Konami's position as a front runner in the digital entertainment industry, and lead to further growth in Konami's global business."


To learn more about Konami and its worldwide offices, please visit: http://www.konami.com


1105
TalkBack / Crouch and Hide on GBA
« on: October 09, 2003, 09:02:11 AM »
UbiSoft ships Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon for Game Boy Advance.

Ubisoft Ships Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon(tm) Video Game to Stores Nationwide      


Highly Anticipated Adventure Captures Martial Arts Magic of Academy Award ®-Winning Movie          


San Francisco, CA - October 9, 2003 - Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, today announced that the Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon action/adventure game is now available on the  PlayStationÒ2 computer entertainment system for a suggest retail price of $39.99, and on the Nintendo Game BoyÒ Advance for a suggest retail price of $29.99. Developed by Genki Co., Ltd. under license from Sony Pictures Consumer Products and based on Sony Pictures Classics' Academy Award-winning movie, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is rated "T-Teen."    


     


"Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is one of the most innovative and exciting movies in recent years, and we've dedicated ourselves to capturing the incredible look and feel that made the film such an amazing hit," said Tony Kee, vice president of marketing for Ubisoft.  "With compelling characters, action-packed fighting sequences and stunning environments, the game will feature the martial arts magic of this classic film."    


     


About Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon    


Set in 19th Century China, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a martial arts fighting game based on the classic teachings and techniques of the Wudan style.  Combining adventure and intense, dynamic combat with the ability to explore lush, interactive environments, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon suspends the laws of space, gravity and the human body.  Players represent one of four characters: Li Mu Bai, Yu Shu Lien, Jen Yu or Lo.    


     


Each character possesses specific moves, talents, and deadly weapons; players must work to improve their fighting skills as they compete against intelligent foes and seek revenge against the sinister Jade Fox (killer of Li Mu Bai's master and Yu Shu Lien's fiancé).  The gameplay experience effectively captures the martial arts magic and fluidity of movement that made the film a worldwide success.    


     


Game features include:    


     


·         Fully Licensed: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is the only videogame featuring the characters, story and locations from the Academy Award-winning film.    


·         Woo-Ping Yuen-Inspired Choreography: Faithfully recreates the grace and style of Woo-Ping's fight choreography (action choreographer for Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, The Matrix, Kill Bill).    


·         Superhuman Martial Arts: Master all the whirling acrobatics, dizzying combos, impossible dodges and kung-fu fury from the film.    


·         Relive the Adventures: Embark on the personal quests of Li Mu Bai, Yu Shu Lien, Jen Yu and "Dark Cloud" Lo.    


·         Exclusive Moves: Each playable character has his/her own unique style of combat and special abilities for action-packed brawls, chases and duels.    


·         Award Winning Soundtrack: Features the Academy and Grammy Award winning music composed by Tan Dun with solos by internationally acclaimed cellist Yo-Yo Ma.    


·         Bonuses: Special stages, new game modes, extra costumes and other secrets to unlock.


1106
TalkBack / Atlus Ships DemiKids Light & Dark
« on: October 07, 2003, 11:44:42 AM »
The demons are coming!

ATLUS U.S.A., INC. SHIPS "DemiKids: LIGHT AND DARK VERSIONS" FOR THE GAME BOY® ADVANCE


“Defeat an army of demons...? No one said 6th grade would be easy!"


Irvine, CA, October 7, 2003 – Atlus U.S.A., Inc., a leading publisher of console RPG’s, announced today that "DemiKids: Light and Dark Versions" for the Game Boy® Advance, an offshoot of the insanely popular Shin Megami Tensei series in Japan has shipped to retailers nationwide..


Synopsis


The year is 200X.  Jin (main character of Light Version), Akira (main character of Dark Version), and Lena are 6th grade friends who have grown up together.  They are also members of the “Mystery Club” which searches for interesting and mysterious things.


 


While snooping around the school’s library, they happen upon a mysterious book containing various spells and incantations.  Curiosity overwhelms the group as they decide to carry out a summoning ritual, unprepared for the consequences... To their surprise, an evil demon appears and their only hope comes from a peculiar new student, Amy, who gives Jin and Akira the power to capture and summon demons by way of the gun-like Demolyzer. They are also joined by Rand and Gale, guardian demons sent to protect them.


 


Meanwhile, a time rift appears outside the school, and a strange phenomenon occurs. The flow of time has been disrupted, and the events in their world are locked in a recurring loop.  Every time the main character tries to leave school, time reverts back to when school was dismissed.  However, Jin, Akira, Lena, and Amy are the only ones who recognize the bizarre circumstances.  The other students go about their business as if nothing's happened.


 


Trapped in a time loop, the main characters begin to wonder what will become of the future.  Unexpectedly, Amy reveals that she has come from another dimension, Valhalla, to find a savior from this world.  She insists that this mysterious phenomenon signifies a terrible turn of events in Valhalla.


 


Jin, Lena, and Amy go through the “Door of Time” to the world of Valhalla.


In this world, demons and angels brandish their powers under the emperor while humans are oppressed.  Jin, Lena, and Amy team up with the DemiKids of Valhalla to fight as rebels against the emperor’s army.


DemiKids: Light and Dark Versions: Facts & Features


Role-Playing/Trading/Collecting, 1-2 Players ·         Collect over 350 demons by using the special fusion system!  Unlock stronger ones by trading with a different version!  ·         Demon fusion system allow for hundreds of possible combinations to create new demons or make existing demons stronger! ·         Avoid battles and even gain new allies by negotiating with the demonic denizens of Valhalla.  


Differences Between the Light Version and Dark Version


 


·         Scenario  


Although the story in both versions occurs during the same time frame, the scenarios differ depending on which protagonist you are playing with.  Jin, the protagonist of the Light Version, goes from the real world to Valhalla with Lena and Amy.  They join the rebels at the request of Amy, and try to overthrow the emperor of Valhalla and his army.


 


On the other hand, Akira, the protagonist of the Dark Version, makes a stop in the Demon World before heading to Valhalla to catch up with Jin and friends.  During his adventures in the Demon World, Akira meets Mephius, the king of all demons, and learns more about the source of the time distortion.


 


Like Jin, Akira eventually challenges the emperor of Valhalla and his army, but there are significant differences in the storyline leading up to that event.


 


·         The Fusion System


Each version of DemiKids uses a unique fusion system.  Special fusions known as Relic Fusions and Skill Fusions can be performed in either version.  While in the Dark Version you will be able to increase the parameters of all party members, in the Light Version you will only be able to increase those of your Partner, the guardian demon that accompanies you.


 


·         Demon Appearances


While some of the demons available in each title will overlap, certain ones will be unique to either the Light or Dark Version.  Furthermore, the circumstances under which the demons are encountered may also vary.


 


For gamers who wish to use the demon-recruiting aspect of the game to its fullest capacity, linking systems will be an exciting way to enhance their assortment of demon allies.


 


“DemiKids raises the bar in the monster collecting genre by introducing the sophisticated demon-recruiting system, an innovation sure to entice young and seasoned gamers alike," said Akibo Shieh, Project Lead, Atlus U.S.A., Inc.  "This stylish RPG brings the most popular aspects of the hit Japanese Shin Megami Tensei series to the handheld market, and is sure to be an instant classic!"


 


For more information, please visit the Atlus website at http://www.atlus.com.


 


"DemiKids: Light and Dark Versions" are compatible only with the Game Boy® Advance and have a suggested retail price of US $29.99.  


The independent Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has not yet rated "DemiKids: Light and Dark Versions". For more information about the ESRB visit www.esrb.org.


1107
TalkBack / Gladius Goes Gold
« on: October 06, 2003, 12:07:10 PM »
The strategy-RPG from LucasArts is complete and headed for manufacturing.

LucasArts announced today that Gladius, their gladiator-themed strategy-RPG for all three consoles, has completed development and is now being printed to disc for retail.  The game was originally scheduled for release in spring 2003, but it was delayed several times.  The current release date is October 28th.


Hit the link above to see the official Gladius website, or use our Related Links on the right to check out the game's profile on PGC, where you can easily access our preview, impressions, and media.


1108
TalkBack / Editorial: Desperation Mode?
« on: October 04, 2003, 09:23:10 AM »
This thread is for discussion of the editorial, "Desperation Mode?"  Please feel free to leave your comments and questions about the article and to discuss it with others.

1109
TalkBack / GBA SP Ranks with Top Toys
« on: October 02, 2003, 05:01:46 PM »
Discerning kids say it's one of the top ten things they want for the holidays.

According to Yahoo News (courtesy of Reuters), Game Boy Advance SP is set to be one of the hottest gifts for kids this holiday season.


The annual test, administered by FamilyFun magazine, began with a pool of over 470 toy submissions.  The list was whittled down to 66 finalists, which were given to the hands-on testing department...a room of kids going nuts with all the toys.  The kids are later surveyed to find out which products they liked the best.


Game Boy Advance SP, though actually intended to appeal more to older gamers, still made a big splash with the little ones.  It lands on the Top Ten list at #7.


1110
TalkBack / I-Ninja Website Launches
« on: October 02, 2003, 01:27:02 PM »
Namco's upcoming action title for all three consoles gets its own website.

Namco Hometek Inc. Unveils Official I-Ninja Web Site


Pint-Sized Warrior Makes His Online Debut


 Leading video games publisher Namco Hometek Inc. announced today the launch of the official Web site for I-Ninja, the popular new action adventure game scheduled for release on PlayStation®2, Xbox® and Nintendo GameCube in Q4 2003.  The Web site, http://www.ininjagame.com, provides a wealth of information, including the latest news, detailed game information, screenshots and a short movie of game play footage.  The diehard I-Ninja follower will feast on the latest online toys, including wallpaper designs, instant message icons, message board avatars and a soon-unveiled desktop communicator.  Additionally, an online message board allows I-Ninja fans to discuss the upcoming release and participate in “Sensei’s Dojo,” a forum dedicated to the creation of new Ninja principles.  By registering on the site, members can access the I-Ninja forums, receive e-mail updates and immerse themselves in the I-Ninja community.


I-Ninja delivers an adrenaline-charged action adventure experience in beautifully detailed environments, each uniquely designed to challenge young I-Ninja and his abilities.  With a small, earthlike planet called “The World” as his stage, I-Ninja travels from island to island, obtaining new Ninja belts, recovering lost relics and facing his ultimate nemesis.  Along the way, he fights fearsome enemies and overcomes obstacles as he attempts to outwit guardians, masters, mini bosses and evil army members.  In a game play style challenging the powers of gravity, I-Ninja shreds rails, covers long distances with sword copter spins, utilizes chains and grapple hooks, runs on walls and displays specialized ninja moves to navigate through any challenging situation.


1111
TalkBack / Bomberman Jetters Heads to U.S.
« on: October 02, 2003, 12:55:41 PM »
Majesco will publish the latest GameCube title in the series this fall, weird name intact.

'BOMBERMAN JETTERS' BLASTS ITS WAY TO AMERICA AS MAJESCO INTRODUCES LATEST EDITION OF TOP-SELLING FRANCHISE


EDISON, NJ, October XX, 2003 - One of the most explosive franchises for the Nintendo GameCubeTM returns as Majesco, one of the fastest growing publishers of interactive entertainment software, today announced Bomberman Jetters, the Japanese smash-hit and newest installment to the 'Bomberman' series.  The sequel to the widely-popular Bomberman Generations, Bomberman Jetters is scheduled to ship in time for the holidays, at a suggested retail price of $19.99.


 


"Bomberman Jetters is already a huge success in Japan, and we are very excited to be publishing it here in the U.S.," said Ken Gold, Vice President of Marketing for Majesco.  "We believe that Bomberman Jetters not only appeals to the large, established pool of Bomberman devotees, but will attract new fans to the franchise."


 


In Bomberman Jetters, the Hige Hige Bandits are at it again as they hatch a plan to crash the artificial comet, Dark Star into the unsuspecting Planet Bomber.  As Bomberman, players must destroy the four powerful engines of Dark Star before it is too late and Planet Bomber is obliterated.


 


Bomberman Jetters features a variety of gaming options, including the stylish and adventurous single-player campaign and the franchise's trademark multi-player mode.  The latest multi-player offering aspect will allows up to four players to compete in five new battle stages and through a ton of mini-games, creating endless replay potential.    


 


Developed by Hudson Soft, Bomberman Jetters is scheduled for release in November.  For more information on Bomberman Jetters or to view the complete catalog of Majesco games please visit www.MajescoGames.com.


1112
TalkBack / Mission: Impossible Website Live
« on: October 01, 2003, 03:45:15 PM »
Atari has a new website set up for Mission: Impossible - Operation Surma.

Atari announced today that its official website for Mission: Impossible - Operation Surma is now up.  The site features screenshots, videos, message boards, and more.


M:I - Operation Surma is set for release before the holidays on Game Boy Advance, while the GameCube version is arriving a little bit later, in 2004.


1113
TalkBack / GameShark SP Ships Out
« on: October 01, 2003, 03:34:01 PM »
The GameShark line of cheating devices, now in the hands of Mad Catz, expands to Game Boy Advance SP.

MAD CATZ SHIPS GAMESHARK FOR  GAME BOY® ADVANCE SP!


- GameShark SP Loaded With More Than 15,000 Codes -


San Diego, California, October 1, 2003—Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. (AMEX/TSE: MCZ), the world’s leading third party video game enhancement and accessory manufacturer, announced today shipments of the first GameShark® product designed specifically for the Game Boy® Advance SP.  Simply the hottest product with the most codes and game saves on the market, the GameShark SP packs in over 15 thousand codes for over 200 Game Boy Advance games.  Shipping to retail outlets this week, the GameShark SP will be available for an MSRP of $29.99 U.S.


GameShark SP offers more codes from all of the latest and greatest Game Boy Advance titles including Pokemon: Ruby and Sapphire, Advance Wars 2, MegaMan Battle Network 3: Blue and White and Wario Ware, Inc.  Players can also get codes for Japanese and European import games.  Not only do you get more than 15,000 preloaded codes, but GameShark SP also allows you to add new cheats for new games or customize your code library.  The included PC software communicates to an online database that contains all the latest codes and to gameshark.com each day to give the GameShark SP the most codes available.  


"We are dedicated to expanding the GameShark product offerings for the large and still growing community of loyal GameShark and Game Boy Advance users," said Darren Richardson, President and Chief Operating Officer for Mad Catz, Inc. "Acquiring the GameShark brand earlier this year was a pivotal and strategic move for Mad Catz.  It merged the leading accessory brand with the leading game enhancement software brand, creating the only ‘one-stop-shop’ and further solidifying Mad Catz’ leadership position."


1114
TalkBack / New Donkey Konga Info
« on: October 01, 2003, 07:07:32 AM »
Details are finally surfacing on Nintendo's first Bemani game.

Japanese gaming site Quiter (link above) is reporting that the new issue of Dorimaga magazine has a load of information on Nintendo's upcoming music game, Donkey Konga.


Apparently, up to four players can participate in the game's selection of 32 songs, which range from kids' songs to pop, latin, and dance music.  There is also a game mode like Donkey Kong Junior; perhaps you control the younger gorilla by keeping up with the beat.   A music game like this demands its own crazy controller, and Donkey Konga will be no exception.  The controller is called Barrel Konga and is 30 cm (one foot) wide.  It is made up of two side-by-side conga drums that you play with your hands.  We assume that you have to take turns to play the four-player modes, but the controller does have the ability to recognize handclaps from bystanders, so everyone can join in and participate in the game
 


1115
TalkBack / Twin Snakes Delay?
« on: September 26, 2003, 09:56:19 PM »
Nintendo's official website says so.

Nintendo of America's official website now lists a Q1 2004 release date for Metal Gear Solid: The Twin Snakes.  The game was previously expected to come out before the end of the year in North America.


Nintendo.com does occasionally contain errors, though we doubt it's the case here.  However, PGC will be checking up on this story with Konami and Silicon Knights for confirmation and further information.


Props to Gumby at the GA Forums for spotting this one.


Update: PGC reader General Oniram pointed us to further confirmation of this report.  At Konami's official Twin Snakes website, the Staff page says "Early 2004" at the bottom.


1116
NWR Feedback / PGC Back in the Hizzouse
« on: September 26, 2003, 09:40:56 PM »
Everything should be back to normal and working properly now.  Let us know if you still have any unusual trouble accessing the site.

1117
TalkBack / Viewtiful TV Ad Campaign
« on: September 26, 2003, 11:32:09 AM »
Capcom's upcoming GameCube action game is set to receive a big marketing push.

Capcom launches a ‘viewtiful’ MEDIA campaign to support the release of  


Viewtiful Joe™ for Nintendo GameCube™  


   


National Television Advertising to Broaden Overall Marketing Program for Quirky Action Superhero  


   


SUNNYVALE , Calif .  ¾ September 25, 2003 ¾ Capcom Entertainment, a leading worldwide developer and publisher of video games , today announced a national television advertising program to support the upcoming release of Viewtiful Joe for the Nintendo GameCube ™ .  The television marketing campaign, which begins on September 29 and runs for several weeks, will generate over 75 million consumer impressions.  The new TV ads will support the overall extensive marketing initiative, which includes print and online advertising, an online street team, as well as promotional and retail partnerships.  


   


An all-new concept in video games, Viewtiful Joe blends the latest cel-shaded graphic advancements with classic side-scrolling gameplay to introduce the world’s quirkiest million dollar action superhero, Joe!  Viewtiful Joe redefines the action genre by mixing innovative “viewpoint” fighting into an amazing stunt filled movie universe. Combining a true comic book look with innovative stylized action will set Viewtiful Joe apart from all other games on the market when the game is released on October 7.


   


“In support of the most innovative title to be released this year, we pulled out all the stops for Viewtiful Joe ,” said Todd Thorson , director of marketing, Capcom Entertainment.  “A national marketing campaign spanning all types of media, starting this month, will let everyone know what a ‘viewtiful’ world it is.”  


   


The :30 and :15 second television spots are aimed at the teen and adult markets, ages 12 to 34 years old, and will appear on network primetime, syndicated and cable programming in the U.S. and Canada including  “Smallville,” Smackdown,” “Adult Swim,” and “Paradise Hotel”.  The print campaign includes single-page and spread ads that will be featured in leading video game magazines and dedicated men’s publications including Maxim, DC Comics, Mad Magazine, Nintendo Power, Electronic Gaming Monthly and Game Informer, just to name a few.  Online efforts include web site advertising as well as an 800+ member online street team whose goal is to evangelize the “viewtiful” new game.  National retail support will consist of pre-order and point of sale purchase campaigns at major retail outlets and a  promotional sweepstakes will be conducted giving away a customized Viewtiful Joe Vespa scooter.  


   


Viewtiful Joe begins as Joe and his girlfriend, Silvia, are at the movies watching his favorite superhero, Captain Blue.  Somehow, Silvia is warped into the motion picture realm and it is up to Joe to fight the on-screen bad guys and rescue her.  In the effort of saving his damsel in distress, Joe becomes more than just any ordinary dude.  He gains new visual effects powers to perform special fighting techniques that can be utilized to affect time and initiate a variety of devastating combos on foes.  Joe’s special powers can also be used to solve various inventive puzzles.  


   


Players will progress through various quasi 2D/3D cel-shaded environments implementing Joe’s visual effect abilities to bash enemies with beautiful style.  It is up to gamers to activate the correct view mode, such as “Slow,” a technique for instantaneously slowing down the action to inflict damage reminiscent of today’s films, or “Mach Speed” to destroy enemies using a lighting-fast approach.  Viewtiful Joe carries a “T” rating for teen audiences from the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board).


1118
TalkBack / Nintendo Touts Handheld RPG Lineup
« on: September 25, 2003, 06:46:41 PM »
No less than four first-party RPG titles for Game Boy Advance to be released this fall.

NINTENDO MEETS PLAYERS' DEMAND FOR DEEPER STORYLINES


Four New Titles Immerse Players in Fantasy Worlds


REDMOND, Wash., Sept. 25, 2003 – Emphasizing substance and involving storyline, Nintendo introduces four new games for the Game Boy® Advance to satisfy adventure and role-playing fans, while also meeting the current demand for all things magical and fantastic. Role-playing games are not just for hard-core gamers, but are one of the most popular gaming genres, accounting for approximately 20 percent of U.S. game sales.*


The new titles – Final Fantasy Tactics® Advance, Fire Emblem™, Mario & Luigi™: Superstar Saga, and Sword of Mana™ – continue Nintendo's pursuit of developing deep, dynamic storylines and character-development opportunities for players. Quests in these games parallel the popularity of supernatural hits like the Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter movies. Unlike films, these new role-playing games allow players to immerse themselves in entertainment as an interactive player versus a passive viewer.


"These games feature out-of-this-world scenarios, engrossing players as their characters succeed," says George Harrison, senior vice president, marketing and corporate communications, Nintendo of America. "As the stories take dozens of hours to resolve, we provide a unique opportunity for role-playing fans to continue the game whenever and wherever they want in a portable manner."


The following games offer a new level of depth and breadth to role-playing game enthusiasts:


 Final Fantasy Tactics Advance, selling more than 150,000 copies in the U.S. in its first two weeks of availability, marks the popular franchise's debut on the Game Boy Advance. Marche, the main character, leads a squad of fighters in a quest to restore his peaceful hometown, which has been transformed into a kingdom of sorcery. With multiple levels, side quests and dozens of jobs and abilities, this game offers many hours of diverse game play. Multiplayer modes allow gamers to challenge one another to determine whose army is stronger – and who is the better strategist. Players who want to go deeper into the storyline can call 866-PLY-2WIN (866-759-2946) to hear game characters tell their story in more detail. Final Fantasy Tactics Advance is available now, at an MSRP of $39.99.


 Fire Emblem combines military strategy with mages, berserkers and knights. Help a young noble named Eliwood hone his battle skills as he searches for his missing father. This epic game also includes a multiplayer game mode for battle with friends. Fire Emblem will be released Nov. 3, at an MSRP of $34.99.


 Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga follows the adventures of the Mario Bros. in a massive new land as they search for a villain who stole Princess Peach's voice. Blending reflex-testing battles with jumping challenges and brain-bending puzzles, this action-packed role-playing game will leave thumbs (and funny bones) sore. Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga will be released Nov. 17, at an MSRP of $34.99.


 Sword of Mana, the prequel to the famous Mana series, puts players in control of either a hero or heroine in the quest to save the Mana Tree from destruction, but each character experiences the story from a different perspective. The direction of the story changes based on which character the player selects. Sword of Mana will be released Dec. 1, at an MSRP of $34.99. Between the four new titles, players can endow their characters with hundreds of different occupations and abilities. With the touch of a button, players can change characters, companions and even personalities, and begin an entirely new adventure. With these games set to be available for the 2003 holiday season, there's a title for gamers of every skill level.


The worldwide leader and innovator in the creation of interactive entertainment, Nintendo Co., Ltd., of Kyoto, Japan, manufactures and markets hardware and software for its popular home and portable video game systems. Each year, hundreds of all-new titles for the best-selling Game Boy Advance and Nintendo GameCube™ systems extend Nintendo's vast game library and continue the tradition of delivering a rich, diverse mix of quality video games for players of all ages. Since the release of its first home video game system in 1983, Nintendo has sold more than 1.8 billion video games globally, creating enduring industry icons such as Mario™ and Donkey Kong® and launching popular culture franchise phenomena such as Metroid™, Zelda™ and Pokémon®. A wholly owned subsidiary, Nintendo of America Inc., based in Redmond, Wash., serves as headquarters for Nintendo's operations in the Western Hemisphere.


For more information about Nintendo, please visit www.nintendo.com.


*Source: NPD Funworld, NPD Techworld, Wedbush Morgan Securities estimates.


1119
TalkBack / Mega Man X RPG Announced for GameCube, PS2
« on: September 25, 2003, 05:38:36 PM »
One of Capcom's surprise TGS announcements is a new Mega Man RPG...this one starring Mega Man X and pals, and it's not for GBA.

Famitsu.com has a single screenshot and details on one of Capcom's big TGS announcements.  Rock Man: Mission Command is an RPG for GameCube and PlayStation 2, to be released sometime in 2004 in Japan.


The game features RPG gameplay for the first time in the Mega Man X sub-series.  Battles allow you to control a party of Mega Man X, Zero, and Axl, the new character from Mega Man X7 on PS2.  According to Famitsu.com, battles will retain some action elements, including letting you press time your button presses for extra damage a la Super Mario RPG and its offspring.


We'll have more coverage of Rock Man: Mission Command in the very near future.


Bakudan Yoshinoya contributed to this article.


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TalkBack / Pokemon Fire & Leaf Website is Live
« on: September 20, 2003, 07:35:20 AM »
Nintendo releases official info about the upcoming GBA remakes of the original Pokemon games.

Nintendo Company Ltd. now has an official website (really just one webpage) for their newly announced Game Boy Advance Pokemon remakes.  The site contains a new screenshot of the overworld, plus some information about the game (in Japanese, of course).  There should be plenty more info and media available there in the coming weeks.


Thanks to maxrecycleking for the tip!


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Podcast Discussion / Radio Trivia Results for 9/19/2003
« on: September 19, 2003, 08:25:38 PM »
It was a high-scoring night for some people, but the final game was a total stumper.  Lenny admits to having blindly guessed...but he guessed correctly and cemented the win.

Yoshi’s Island (SNES) – FFantasyFX, Lenny, Magus-, NikJam, Doerr, Gorillaz87, Chiphead, ulanshad

Q: What was the only third-party SNES game released in America to employ the Super FX chip?
A: Doom  <Gorillaz87> doom

Donkey Kong Jr. (NES) - Lenny, Carlos_, Magus-, ulanshad, Chiphead

Q: The imprisoned DK of this game later took on what name?
A: Cranky Kong  <NikJam> cranky kong

Paper Mario (N64) - NikJam, Lenny, FFantasyFX, Gorillaz87, cell84, Chiphead

Q: What has happened to Peach in the sequel to Paper Mario?
A: Her voice has been replaced with explosives.  <NikJam> her voice was replaced with explosives

Half-time:
HBT – “GCN (People’s Choice)”
Super Mario Sunshine – “Warp Zone” (a capella)

Battletoads (NES) - Lenny, NikJam, Chiphead, TheViper

Q: Name all three!
A: Rash, Zitz, Pimple  <Lenny> Rash Pimple Zitz

Smartball (SNES) - Lenny

Q: How does Smartball carry items?
A: Absorbed into his body  <BobbyRobby> absorbs them into himslef

Scoreboard:

Lenny – 6
NikJam – 5
Chiphead – 4
Gorillaz87 – 3
FFantasyFX – 2
Magus- - 2
ulanshad - 2
Doerr – 1
Carlos_ - 1
cell84 – 1
TheViper – 1
BobbyRobby - 1

Lenny named all five games correctly, in addition to one of the bonus questions, for a grand total of six points (out of ten possible)!  This is an incredible score by Radio Trivia standards, as fully half of the possible points (the ones given for bonus Qs) can only be earned by one person.  NikJam and Chiphead also posted very impressive scores that would have brought them victory in most cases.

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TalkBack / Message from the Director
« on: September 19, 2003, 05:18:25 PM »
What's going on with the site?

Hi everyone, glad you could get to this page.  Please share this message with any of your friends who aren't having any luck viewing the site.


You've probably noticed that PGC has been having technical problems for the past week or so.  The server is currently operating under temporary fixes, which is why it is not very stable.  We are working on implementing a permanent solution to the problem.


In the meantime, PGC should be live pretty much all the time...it's just a pain to load.  If any page on the site fails to load, wait a few seconds and refresh.  Usually this will make the page successfully load after one or two tries.


We know it's annoying to you, because it's definitely annoying to us.  In fact, the same problem that makes it hard for you to read the site also makes it hard for us to update the site, which is the reason we haven't really been pumping out the proper amount of coverage this week.  Media is particularly hard for us to upload right now, so you may not see a lot of screenshots until we get things straightened out.


I hope you now have a better understanding of what's going on here.  Please bear with us and try not to get too frustrated.  We'll keep updating the site as long as you keep reading it, and no technical difficulties are going to stop that relationship in the long run.


Jonathan Metts
Director, PlanetGameCube.com


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TalkBack / Zelda Bonus Disc ver. 2.0
« on: September 10, 2003, 08:30:28 AM »
You won't even have to wait for the Wind Waker sequel to get it.

According to Game Informer Online, Nintendo of America will release a second Legend of Zelda bonus disc this holiday season.  It will be included with the purchase of a new GameCube system and may also be available through other offers.


The tentative contents include ports of The Legend of Zelda (NES), Zelda II: The Adventure of Link (NES), The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (N64), and The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask (N64).  It is currently unknown whether the Master Quest of Ocarina of Time will be included again, or whether any of the other games will be enhanced as was Ocarina on the first bonus disc.  The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past is presumably not being offered on the disc because it is available on Game Boy Advance.


PGC can confirm that this disc will not include the GameCube version of Four Swords; it is still unclear how that game will be released, whether by itself or as part of a similar compilation disc.


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TalkBack / Game Informer Online Launches
« on: September 08, 2003, 01:46:45 PM »
It's the return of you-know-who...

Although normally we wouldn't be encouraging you to go check out our competitors, it just wouldn't feel right to ignore a special event like this.  Today marks the launch of Game Informer Online, headed up by PGC founder and former Director, Billy Berghammer.


The site covers all three console platforms, plus GBA and PC gaming.  There are interviews, reviews, movies, etc. available completely free.  If you're a subscriber to Game Informer magazine, you can also access a special area with even more content.


So go check it out, tell 'em PGC sent you, and please feel free to depend on them for your non-Nintendo gaming coverage needs.  ;-)


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TalkBack / Tales of Symphonia Sells Swiftly in Japan
« on: September 03, 2003, 06:34:26 PM »
And it's actually selling GameCubes!

According to Japanese gaming site Quiter, the new Media-Create sales rankings show both Tales of Symphonia and GameCube at the top of Japanese sales charts during the week of August 25 through 31.


Namco's newest Tales RPG, and the first game in the series to take place in 3D, debuted with an impressive 193,500 copies sold in Japan during its first week in stores.  Namco has said that it hopes to sell half a million copies of the game in total.  Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles and Kirby Air Ride are also both in the top ten for the week, along with several GBA titles.


The heavy-hitting launch of Tales of Symphonia has managed to make GameCube the top-selling console for last week, edging out PlayStation 2 for once.  Probably a good portion of the new GameCubes being sold are the special mint-colored edition created in honor of the Tales of Symphonia release.  Game Boy Advance SP handily beat out all of the big systems.


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