Topics

[Another Wind Waker press release, this time with details of marketing in Europe.]

226

TalkBack / €5 Million European Marketing Campaign for Zelda

« on: April 15, 2003, 01:53:43 AM »

Another Wind Waker press release, this time with details of marketing in Europe.

THE LEGEND RETURNS…

THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: THE WIND WAKER launches on NINTENDO GAMECUBE with a  €5 Million European Marketing Campaign

Nintendo’s greatly anticipated release of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, exclusive to NINTENDO GAMECUBE, launches across Europe with the support of a €5 million marketing campaign.  

This latest title in the hugely successful Zelda series launches on 3 May 2003 with support from TV, print and online advertising, plus limited editions for retail.  

TV advertising will target kids with a 30 second execution via terrestrial and satellite channels including Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network, Fox Kids, GMTV & ITV.  The creative captures the epic nature of Link’s quest to save his sister and fuses live action and animation.  Print advertising will comprise of single page ‘coming soon’ executions followed by DPS ‘out now’ executions running over 2 months from April in specialist gaming publications and kids press.

The online campaign will run over 6 weeks and feature multiple creatives designed to appeal to both kids and avid gamers.  Executions will include banners, eye-blasters and a microsite at http://windwaker.nintendo.co.uk

Nintendo’s website at www.Nintendo-europe.com will carry updated news and reviews of the game and banners.  In addition a bespoke Flash mail-out will be distributed to over 250,000 subscribers to the site.  A specially built microsite will also carry a major online competition where entrants will be invited to be creative with Zelda.

At launch The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, will be sold as a limited edition 2 disk set, containing the game disk and an additional bonus disk.  The bonus disk contains two additional games available for the first time on the NINTENDO GAMECUBE: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Master Quest.

Nintendo are also releasing a limited edition Zelda Pak priced at around 199 Euros, available from launch day on 3 May. The Pak contains the limited edition The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker game (including the bonus disk), plus an exclusive platinum NINTENDO GAMECUBE and controller.   The platinum console has not previously been available in Europe and will only be available at launch as part of this Pak.  The Zelda Pak gives all gamers a chance to get their hands on what has already been hailed as a truly great game, along with a brand new, great looking NINTENDO GAMECUBE.

The PR campaign already underway focuses on the global phenomenon & heritage of the Zelda franchise, with editorial & competitions targeted to kids and specialist gaming press.  

David Gosen, Managing Director of Nintendo of Europe said,

“We’re extremely excited about the launch of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, especially following the incredible success in the US with over 1.1 million shipped.    

We also expect huge interest in the limited edition disk and the Zelda Pak containing the exclusive platinum NINTENDO GAMECUBE.  The Zelda Pak & the limited edition disk represent great value for money on one of the most hotly anticipated game releases of the year.“

The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker introduces a new look to the Zelda series as Link returns, this time on a new quest to rescue his sister from her evil captor.  The 9 games in the Zelda series prior to The Wind Waker have enjoyed staggering global sales, with over 36 million units sold since 1986, which have appeared across 6 of Nintendo’s consoles; the NES, SNES, N64, Game Boy, Game Boy Color and most recently the Game Boy Advance with The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past / Four Swords.  The Wind Waker is the first appearance of the Zelda franchise on NINTENDO GAMECUBE and as such has the gaming community almost breathless with anticipation.

Click onto http://windwaker.nintendo.co.uk for more information about The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker.

[Sega is starting to publish their own games in Europe for all platforms.]

227

TalkBack / Sega Europe to Begin Publishing

« on: March 28, 2003, 06:04:55 AM »

Sega is starting to publish their own games in Europe for all platforms.

Sega Europe Ltd Announces Software Publishing Division

Virtua FighterTM 4 Evolution (PS2®), Phantasy StarTM Online (XboxTM) and Sonic AdventureTM DX Director's Cut (GameCubeTM) confirmed as first self-published titles

LONDON, UK – March 28, 2003 – Sega Europe Ltd, today confirmed that it is in the process of instigating its own publishing operation to bring to market videogames for all viable gaming platforms. Sega Europe will be building up areas to look after all elements of sales, marketing and PR, to join its pre-existing development infrastructure, with the aim of maximising the sales potential of its popular gaming brands across all PAL-based territories. Previously, Sega Europe had a number of agreements with third-party publishers to bring SEGA-developed titles to market across these territories.

Sega Europe will initially consist of two offices across Europe. The European headquarters remains situated in Chiswick, London, and will operate as the central office for European (PAL) activity. In addition an office based in Paris, France will assist in direct publishing in the French territory. The company is in the process of negotiating distribution arrangements for remainder PAL territories, including Australia and New Zealand.

Naoya Tsurumi, President & COO of Sega Europe, commented, "Sega Europe is now in a position to get closer to the European games market, with its own publishing operation. The transition from hardware manufacturer to software publisher is now complete, and we see the next few years as an incredibly exciting time for growth for Sega Europe."

Sega Europe will be publishing games for all viable current and future hardware platforms, including PlayStation®2, the XboxTM video game system from Microsoft®, and both Nintendo GameCubeTM and Game Boy® AdvanceTM. The first games to be published by Sega Europe will be Sonic Adventure DX Director's Cut for GameCube, Phantasy Star Online for Xbox and Virtua Fighter 4 Evolution for PlayStation 2.

Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II • Xbox (Live) • May 2003
The award-winning Phantasy Star Online sparked a worldwide gaming phenomenon. Now, the world of PSO is coming to Xbox and Xbox Live. The first online role-playing game available on Xbox, Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II will feature all-new gaming modes and new content. For the first time ever, PSO gamers will be able to communicate online using the Xbox Communicator headset and with the new split-screen feature, four friends can adventure through the main quest, as well as the other game-play modes, on the same Xbox.

Episode I includes all of the content from the original PSO and Phantasy Star Online Ver. 2 (PSO Ver. 2), while Episode II brings a new, full-length adventure. The evolution of the original, revolutionary gaming experience continues.

Sonic Adventure DX Director's Cut • GameCube • June 2003
A special edition of the Dreamcast original, Sonic Adventure DX Director's Cut renovates Sonic's classic first 3D adventure for GameCube. Taking place on planet Earth, the evil Dr. Robotnik has returned and is eager to begin his plans for world domination by the destruction of Station Square where he plans to build his twisted Utopian vision of Robotnikland. He has a scheme to use the seven Chaos Emeralds to empower the Chaos monster, which grows each time it consumes one of these magical Emeralds. Sonic becomes entangled in this sinister plot as our Hero must enlist the help of his friends to foil Robotnik's every move and prevent the Chaos monster from becoming more powerful.

Virtua Fighter 4 Evolution • PlayStation 2 • June 2003
The series that started it all is back, and ready to stand triumphant. From the renowned team at SEGA-AM2, led by Virtua Fighter and Shenmue creator Yu Suzuki, comes the next sequel to the premier fighting franchise, Virtua Fighter 4 Evolution. The game features an eagerly anticipated 'Kumite' challenge mode that takes a player through virtual arcades based on real locations from Japan, playing against AI based on real 'VF.Net' fighting supremos. You'll also get your hands on 15 unique combatants – including 2 brand new characters for VF4Evo: Brad Burns and Goh. Each character has their own fighting style, all of which are based on real martial

[The handheld Vikings from Blizzard are on store shelves now.]

228

TalkBack / The Lost Vikings Ships for Game Boy Advance

« on: March 25, 2003, 10:15:46 AM »

The handheld Vikings from Blizzard are on store shelves now.

BLIZZARD ENTERTAINMENT(r) SHIPS  

THE LOST VIKINGS(tm) FOR THE GAME BOY(r) ADVANCE

IRVINE, California - March 25, 2003 - Blizzard EntertainmentÒ announced today that it has begun shipping The Lost Vikings(tm) for Game Boy(r) Advance - the company's first title under its recently formed Blizzard Classic Arcade(tm) label.

"The Lost Vikings was one of the first games that Blizzard developed, and we look forward to bringing the game to a new generation of players," stated Mike Morhaime, Blizzard Entertainment president and co-founder.  "We have fond memories of The Lost Vikings, and we felt that the 10-year anniversary was the ideal time to revisit this game.  Additionally, the style of gameplay translates well to the Game Boy Advance. "

            In The Lost Vikings, players must employ the skills of three unique Viking characters cooperatively to solve puzzles, conquer enemies, and navigate the Vikings' treacherous voyage back home.  The game provides hours of arcade-style action with over 35 levels, numerous enemies, and hundreds of mind-bending puzzles.

In order to advance through levels, players must learn to master the abilities of the powerful runner Erik the Swift, the burly defender Olaf the Stout, and the unyielding swordsman Baleog the Fierce.  As the adventure continues, players will encounter many different worlds to explore, including Prehistoria, Egypt, The Great Factory, and Wacky World.  

The Lost Vikings is available at retail chains nationwide for the Game Boy(r) Advance at a price of approximately $29.99.  The game is also offered directly through Blizzard at (800) 953-SNOW or www.blizzard.com.

[Another UK retailer cuts the price of a GameCube with a game.]

229

TalkBack / More GameCube Price Cuts in the UK

« on: March 24, 2003, 10:13:37 AM »

Another UK retailer cuts the price of a GameCube with a game.

Another retailer has made a significant reduction to the price of a GameCube console. Last Christmas Argos stores drew attention by cutting the price of all Playstation 2 games to £29.99 (usual price £40 - £45). A GameCube including a game is now available for £80 (around $126). This equates to a 30% decrease from the launch price.  

Other recent price drops have included the Dixons Group stores, with the GameCube and a game for £99, and all games reduced to £25. A decision to abandon GameCube sales followed depending on the outcome of the promotion.  

Sales of the console in Europe are over 1.5 million since the launch last May. Playstation 2 sales are still far ahead, but it is thought that the sales figures are very similar to those of Xbox in most European countries.  

[The futuristic racer developed by NDCUBE has been delayed until April.]

230

TalkBack / NEC Delays Tube Slider for GameCube

« on: March 19, 2003, 09:50:36 AM »

The futuristic racer developed by NDCUBE has been delayed until April.

NEC Interchannel, Ltd. Announces Tube Slider (Exclusive for Nintendo GameCube)

Fast and Furious Futuristic Racing Game First Release for Relaunched Game Publisher

SANTA CLARA, CA (March 19, 2003)¾NEC Interchannel, Ltd., a subsidiary of NEC Corporation, today announced Tube Slider(, a fast and furious racing game developed exclusively for the Nintendo GameCube(Tube Slider is developed by NDCUBE, creators of F-Zero: Maximum Overdrive for the Game Boy(r) Advance), and will ship in April 2003.

Tube Slider is a futuristic racing game in which players pilot sleek hovercraft around tubular tracks that twist and turn and test not only your speed, but also your ability to keep your craft in control. Choose between Grand Prix or Free Run modes as you race one of fifteen different tweaked-out vehicles around ten unique and highly detailed elevated courses. The game features an interactive Tutorial mode, and multiplayer mode for up to four players (split-screen). Grab the turbo boosts before your opponents and don't lose control!

NDCUBE Co., Ltd. is an official second-party developer to Nintendo, formed through a joint venture between the largest advertising company in Japan, Dentsu, and Nintendo. The company, now based out of Tokyo, was founded on March 1, 2000.

 "We're thrilled to be working with a developer that has the experience and pedigree of NDCUBE," said Clint Kurahashi, executive vice president of NEC Interchannel Ltd. "Tube Slider is an excellent first entry to what will be a great lineup from NEC."

[ITV are running a contest to find the greatest gamer in the UK. Trials begin this weekend!]

231

TalkBack / UK Gaming Contest

« on: March 19, 2003, 09:26:50 AM »

ITV are running a contest to find the greatest gamer in the UK. Trials begin this weekend!

Beginning this Saturday there is an ITV Game Stars tour to find the "Greatest gamer in the UK". Regional heats will take place in London, Bristol, Birmingham, Cardiff, Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle, Glasgow, and Belfast. These will involve playing three games at random from a selection of 11 on GameCube, PlayStation 2 and Xbox with times or scores recorded.  

The final will take place on the 15th of April in London. The contest will be televised at a later date.  

Registration and further details are available at the website . This event combines with a number of awards sponsored by many companies that can be voted for online at the website, as well as in GAME stores.  

[Gamester carry cases, bags and starter kits available will be available at the UK launch of the console.]

232

TalkBack / Radica Annouces New GBA SP Accessories

« on: March 05, 2003, 06:24:27 AM »

Gamester carry cases, bags and starter kits available will be available at the UK launch of the console.

RADICA LAUNCHES STYLISH GBA SP ACCESSORIES RANGE

March 2003: Radica - the company behind Gamester, the UK's leading video games accessories brand - have unveiled the first products in a brand new high quality range of accessories exclusively for Nintendo's Game Boy Advance SP.

The range includes a Kit Bag, the N-Case SP console case, the Game Case, a three-strong accessory Starter Kit and an Ultimate Essentials pack. All of these products will be released this month to coincide with the UK launch of the Game Boy Advance SP on March 28th.

"This initial range of products is aimed squarely at the hardware purchaser, providing essential products to make the GBA SP the ultimate portable gaming console and giving retailers the opportunity to increase margins and create attractive value added bundles at launch" commented John Doughty, managing director of Radica UK Ltd " since the launch of Game Boy Advance, Radica has dominated the VGA sector, supplying unique, high quality products backed up with excellent retailer and consumer support. Over the coming months we will be releasing further innovative products for GBA SP, enabling us maintain our position as the market leader across handheld formats."

The Gamester Kit Bag is a smart, heavy-duty bag with compartments for gamers' consoles, games and accessories. Featuring heavy padding and four separate internal sections, the Kit Bag provides all the protection and storage any GBA SP owner could possibly want.

The Gamester N-Case is a hard-wearing and durable carry case with a soft non-scratch interior designed to offer the best protection available for the console.

The Gamester Game Case also features a soft non-scratch interior and is a really stylish solution for carrying up to five GBA or GBA SP games while on the move. The Game Case also has a cool metal karabiner clip for ultimate portability.

The Gamester Starter Kit has three great SP accessories to kick-start any gamer's career: rubber console grips, a screen magnifier and a headphone multi-port, allowing simultaneous connection to power and sound.

The Ultimate Essentials pack is every SP gamer's dream, with a Kit Bag, console grips, screen magnifier, skins for customising their SP, a multi-link cable to link the SP to a Game Cube, a car adaptor for the epitome of portable gaming, a set of headphones and a headphone multiport,

The products will carry the following RRPs: # Kit Bag - £9.99 # N-Case SP - £7.99 # Game Case - £4.99 # Starter Kit - £4.99 # Ultimate Essentials - £29.99

[Design a fansite, and you could win a life size model of Samus.]

233

TalkBack / Metroid Prime Competition from Nintendo of Europe

« on: March 05, 2003, 06:11:33 AM »

Design a fansite, and you could win a life size model of Samus.

To celebrate the upcoming release of the game, Nintendo of Europe's website has announced a competition to design a fansite for Metroid Prime.  

The prizes are a life size model of Samus for the top three entrants, and Metroid Prime GameCubes for the next seven.  

The microsite for this contest provides artwork and details to help with your entry. The closing date is April 4th.  

[Details for the European version of the game and GameCube online hardware.]

234

TalkBack / Phantasy Star Online European Release

« on: February 18, 2003, 04:17:52 AM »

Details for the European version of the game and GameCube online hardware.

Phantasy Star Online is ready to deliver the biggest RPG experience for Nintendo ™ GameCube

The award-winning Phantasy Star Online sparked a worldwide gaming phenomenon.   Now the world of Phantasy Star Online (PSO) is coming to NINTENDO GAMECUBE. Phantasy Star™ Online Episode I & II will feature all-new game-play modes and new content. New character classes, formidable weapons, enemies and challenging quests are just a small part of the awesome new content waiting to be discovered. Episode 1 includes all the original PSO and PSO ver.2, while Episode II brings an exclusive new full-length adventure to the NINTENDO GAMECUBE.

Phantasy Star Online Episode 1&2 will be the first online game available on NINTENDO GAMECUBE. To play online you will need to purchase a NINTENDO GAMECUBE Broadband adapter or Modem adapter priced at around 45-50 Euros and acquire a ‘Hunters Licence’, which can be purchased for £5.99 (€8.95) for 30 days - The first 30 days are free!  

The new split-screen feature allows four friends to adventure together on the same NINTENDO GAMECUBE. Not only does PSO deliver the ultimate online gaming experience, but it also has one of the most addictive single player offline RPG experiences ever seen on a home console.  

Game features & Online details:

Impressive offline single player adventure with over 100 hours of unbelievable gameplay. New split-screen actions lets up to four gamer’s team up, or compete, on the same NINTENDO GAMECUBE. For never-ending adventures, up to four players can cooperate and compete online in normal gameplay modes or embark on exclusive downloadable quests. All of the content of PSO and PSO ver.2, plus an exclusive new adventure. Players can test their endurance with Challenge Mode, or reign as the supreme champion of player vs. player combat in Battle Mode. Real-time combat against new, more powerful monsters.

New dungeons and areas to explore, new rare items to find and new quests to complete. To play online you need to need to purchase a NINTENDO GAMECUBE Broadband Adapter or Modem Adapter priced at around 45 -50 Euros and acquire a ‘Hunters License’ which can be purchased for £5.99 (€8.95) for 30 days - The first 30 days are free!

[Nintendo of Europe speaks on the successful Japanese launch.]

235

TalkBack / NOE Comments on GBA SP Launch

« on: February 14, 2003, 11:08:27 AM »

Nintendo of Europe speaks on the successful Japanese launch.

A quote from David Gosen, and a reminder of the European release date for the console that everyone's after.  

GBA SP Launches in Japan

14th February 2003 - “The GBA SP launched today in Japan. Hundreds of gamers were seen lining the streets eager to buy their very own GBA SP – the latest addition to the Game Boy range. The new Game Boy Advance SP is available in silver, black and blue and following its high profile arrival in Japan is set to be a hit with style conscious European gamers. The console is due to launch in Europe on March 28th.”

David Gosen, Managing Director, Nintendo of Europe stated:  “As we anticipated, the reception the new GBA SP has received in Japan is fantastic. The stylish pocket-sized design, the front lit screen and rechargeable battery ensure the ultimate playing experience for gamers on the go.”

[From the 4th of April, the Player's Choice games will include Luigi's Mansion, Pikmin and Super Smash Bros. Melee at a reduced price.]

236

TalkBack / Player's Choice for GameCube in Europe

« on: February 06, 2003, 05:12:21 AM »

From the 4th of April, the Player's Choice games will include Luigi's Mansion, Pikmin and Super Smash Bros. Melee at a reduced price.

Quality Gaming for Less

Nintendo are celebrating the best games of 2002 by introducing the Player’s Choice range on 4th  April 2003. Nintendo has selected some of the best-selling NINTENDO GAMECUBE games of 2002 and is offering them to gamers at an estimated retail price of around 30 Euros.  

Games in the Player’s Choice range currently include some of Nintendo’s top classics Luigi’s Mansion, Super Smash Bros. Melee  and Pikmin as well as many more great games to be added in the near future.  

Remember Luigi’s Mansion? Now it is part of the Player’s Choice range and is ready to be enjoyed once more. Explore a frightening ghost-filled mansion with Luigi as he hunts for his brother, Mario. Whether it’s the spooky shadows or the lightening bolts illuminating the house, the creepy atmosphere will keep you alert from room to room and draw you straight into this game. With a host of appealing characters, great special effects and compelling gameplay, Luigi’s Mansion delivers the quality of entertainment for which Nintendo is famous.  

Also included in this choice collection is the legendary Super Smash Bros. Melee, the game that sold over half a million copies across Europe and that saw the likes of Mario, Pikachu, Link and Yoshi come to blows. Players can select to stage these fights in some of the most famous backdrops in video gaming history. Grab Pikachu and send him rocketing into the skies at Mushroom Kingdom or slap Link on the perilous F-Zero racing tracks.

Or enter the weirdly wonderful world of the Pikmin. Players take the role of Captain Olimar, an astronaut whose spacecraft is forced to crash-land onto a new planet. You have 30 short days to rebuild the broken ship before the life-support system runs out, and you have eager little plant-like creatures called Pikmin to help you do it. This multi-tasked army will search for your ship, build bridges, knock walls downs with their heads, carry equipment and fend off nasty giant enemies by the dozen. Allow the boundaries of your imagination to be pushed to the limit!

Gameplay with Nintendo guarantees great visuals, cool soundtracks and familiar faces. And now you can play the best games for around 30 Euros.

Since the launch of NINTENDO GAMECUBE in May 2002,  more than 1.5 million have been sold throughout Europe. The outstanding line up of over 80 games for 2003, starring the biggest names in interactive entertainment, guarantees continued success in the year to come.

The Player’s Choice range for the NINTENDO GAMECUBE launches on 4th  April, with games available for an estimated retail price of around 30 Euros.

 Click onto www.nintendo-europe.com for all of the most up to date official information on Nintendo.

 

[A new GameCube project from the creator of Tempest 2000 has emerged.]

237

TalkBack / "Unity" from Jeff Minter and Lionhead Studios

« on: January 22, 2003, 01:39:22 PM »

A new GameCube project from the creator of Tempest 2000 has emerged.

Jeff Minter is best known for forming Llamasoft and 80's games including Gridrunner, Return of the Mutant Camels and Tempest 2000.  

This month's Edge magazine contains a lengthy feature regarding his latest project, known as "Unity", for GameCube. It is primarily being developed by Jeff Minter along with the assistance of Lionhead Studios. The game is described as a "modern abstract", 3rd person shooter combined with light synthesiser effects. The levels are expected to be very unique with a lot of variety of gameplay styles, while keeping earlier levels simple and accessible to playing immediately. It can be played by with up to four players, each controlling different visual effects and it will used licensed music tracks.  

The game has currently been in development for three months and is expected to be released in 2004.  

[Cheerleaders and judges wanted by Midway for MLB Slugfest promotions.]

238

TalkBack / National Search for MLB Slugfest Cheerleaders

« on: January 14, 2003, 10:15:27 AM »

Cheerleaders and judges wanted by Midway for MLB Slugfest promotions.

MIDWAY CONDUCTS NATIONWIDE TRYOUTS TO FIND NEXT MIDWAY SPORTS™ MLB™ SLUGFEST® CHEERLEADERS  AND ALLOWS FANS TO BE A PART OF THE ACTION

CHICAGO - January 14, 2003 - Midway Sports, the sports brand of leading software industry publisher and developer Midway Games Inc. (NYSE: MWY), announced today the kickoff of a national search to find the next two MLB SlugFest cheerleaders. MLB SlugFest 20-04 is scheduled to launch in March of 2003 for release on the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox video game system from Microsoft, the Nintendo GameCube and Game Boy Advance. The MLB SlugFest franchise is the first and only aggressive-style baseball videogame franchise, delivering a proprietary blend of hardcore, lightning-fast, adrenaline-style gameplay combined with key baseball features that will please even the most diehard sports fans.  

   “MLB SlugFest has not only received praise for its original and incredible gameplay, but also for being the only baseball game to include cheerleaders,” said Helene Sheeler, vice president of marketing, Midway. “We thought we would turn the excitement up a notch by allowing women from around the country tryout to be a Midway Sports Cheerleader and let the many MLB SlugFest fans vote to decide who will be the next two cheerleaders.”  

The Midway Sports Cheerleader effort is multifaceted in order to allow everyone to be a part of the action:

Cheerleader Tryouts: From January 14 through March 11, Midway Sports will be accepting tryout videos from the first 15,000  women, ages 18 to 25, interested in becoming the next Midway Sports MLB SlugFest Cheerleaders. The final two selected cheerleaders will each receive $5,000 and the opportunity to travel to and participate in exclusive Midway Sports promotional events and activities such as a photo shoot for MLB SlugFest, in-game exposure and the Midway Sports Cheerleader Calendar. For complete requirements, rules and the official entry form visit www.MidwaySports.net.

Judge Sweepstakes: From January 14 through March 10, SlugFest fans can enter to win a trip to Spring Training in Florida to meet St. Louis Cardinals star and MLB SlugFest 20-04 cover athlete Jim Edmonds, and be an honorary judge in the selection of the five Midway Sports Cheerleader semifinalists. To enter visit www.MidwaySports.net.

Nationwide Consumer Vote: From March 21 through April 11, the five Midway Sports Cheerleader semifinalists will have their tryout video, bio and photo posted on www.MidwaySports.net, where fans from around the nation can cast their vote to determine who will be the next two Midway Sports MLB SlugFest Cheerleaders.

[The officially licensed baseball title is being developed for consoles including GameCube and Game Boy Advance.]

239

TalkBack / Midway Announce MLB SlugFest 20-04

« on: January 14, 2003, 10:08:54 AM »

The officially licensed baseball title is being developed for consoles including GameCube and Game Boy Advance.

MIDWAY SPORTS TOP-SELLING BASEBALL FRANCHISE  WINDS UP FOR ANOTHER SEASON WITH HARDCORE  BASEBALL VIDEOGAME MLB SLUGFEST® 20-04

St. Louis Cardinals® Star Jim Edmonds Brings His Adrenaline-Style  Play to the Game as MLB SlugFest 20-04 Cover Athlete

CHICAGO - January 13, 2002 - Midway Sports, the sports brand of software industry publisher and developer Midway Games Inc. (NYSE: MWY), announced today that MLB SlugFest 20-04 is currently in development for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox video game system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube and Game Boy Advance.  

Officially licensed by Major League Baseball Properties and MLBPA, MLB SlugFest 20-04 is the exclusive aggressive-style baseball videogame experience, delivering a proprietary blend of hardcore, lightning-fast, adrenaline-style gameplay combined with key baseball features that please even the most hardcore sports fan. MLB SlugFest 20-04 also features cover athlete Jim Edmonds, of the St. Louis Cardinals along with real MLB players, teams and stadiums.  “MLB SlugFest was the best-selling PlayStation 2 baseball franchise in 2002,” said Helene Sheeler, vice president of marketing, Midway. (NPD Funworld, July - December 2002) “In this year’s game, the new features are substantial, offering even more of what made SlugFest a best-seller the first year it was introduced.”  

MLB SlugFest 20-04 features enormous athletes with over-the-top abilities, including turbo-powered running, play-of-the-week caliber fielding and out-of-the-park hitting. In addition, all-new features add plenty of adrenaline to this year’s experience: new modes include Create-A-Team, which allows gamers to form their own All-Star team; Customizable Instant Replay, allowing gamers control of the camera and the ability to view their towering home runs and diving catches; and Home Run Derby, which pits gamers’ favorite MLB players against the most feared long ball hitters in the league.

   Graphically, MLB SlugFest 20-04 combines more than 1,500 animations combined with revolutionary player models, resulting in each player being mapped to his exact likeness. Stadiums are also rendered to perfection. Authentic batting stances and pitch motions also add to the realism of the game as players in the field look and swing, and batters and pitchers look and throw, like their MLB counterparts.

MLB SlugFest 20-04 also features music from hot bands along with original DVD content that includes the behind-the-scenes making of the game and Jim Edmonds highlight footage: A Day in the Life with Jim Edmonds.    

[The release schedule for Game Boy Advance.]

240

TalkBack / Game Boy Advance Release Dates Europe 2003

« on: January 07, 2003, 07:22:02 AM »

The release schedule for Game Boy Advance.

GBA Software Release Schedule 2003

January 2003
10th January Pinball of the Dead (Infogrames)
17th January Micromachines (Infogrames)    
17th January Titeuf (Infogrames)
    30th January Taxi 3 (Ubi Soft)   
Iron Man (Activision)   
ATARI Anniversary (Infogrames)   
ISS Advance (Konami)   

February 2003
    6th February Bratz Dolls (Ubi Soft)
    7th February Shining Soul (Infogrames)   
13th February Medal of Honour Underground Expo (Ubi Soft)
Disney Sports Skateboarding (Konami)
Frogger Adventure 2: The Lost Wand (Konami)
    Rayman 3 Hoodlum Havoc (Ubi Soft)

March  2003
13th March Super Cross 2002 (Ubi Soft)    
13th March Toca Touring (Ubi Soft)
13th March Formula One (Ubi Soft)
28th March The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (Nintendo)   
Super Monkey Ball (SEGA/Infogrames)
Sonic Advance 2 (SEGA/Infogrames)
    Phantasy Star Chronicles (SEGA/Infogrames)
    Disney Sports Basketball (Konami)
Disney Sports Snowboarding (Konami)
Muppets (TDK)

Q1
Road Rash Jailbreak (Ubi Soft)   
Disney Princesses (THQ)   
GT Advance 3 (THQ)   
F1 2002 (Zoo Digital Publishing)
Freekstyle (Zoo Digital Publishing)   
Medal of Honour Underground (Ubi Soft)    
Need for Speed Porsche Unleashed (Ubi Soft)
    Road Rash Jailbreak (Ubi Soft)    
Boulder Dash EX (Kemco)   
Kid Klown in Crazy Chase (Kemco)

April 2003
10th April 2003   NBA 2002 (Ubi Soft)
Kirby (Nintendo)
Pro Beach Soccer (Wanadoo)

May 2003       13th May Need for Speed (Ubi Soft)
Wario Ware (Nintendo)

June 2003
GALIDOR: Defenders of the Outer Dimension (Lego/Electronic Arts)   

Q2
Kirby (Nintendo)
Wario Ware (Nintendo)
X-Men Wolverine’s Revenge (Activision)

Q2/Q3 2003
Sim City 2000 (Zoo Digital Publishing)   

September 2003
BIONICLE: Mask of Light (Lego/Electronic Arts)
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Return of the Dark King (THQ)
The Simpsons Road Rage (THQ)

Q3
Golden Sun 2 (Nintendo)
Advance Wars 2 (Nintendo)
Pokemon Ruby & Sapphire (Nintendo)

October 2003
    Disney/Pixar Finding Nemo (THQ)   
Sphinx (THQ)

November 2003
Scooby Doo (THQ)

December 2003
Power Rangers Ninja Force (THQ)

Q4
    Final Fantasy Tactics (Nintendo)
Super Mario Advance 4 (Nintendo)
 

[The release schedule for GameCube.]

241

TalkBack / GameCube Release Dates Europe 2003

« on: January 07, 2003, 06:20:21 AM »

The release schedule for GameCube.

Nintendo GameCube Release Schedule 2003

January 2003
24th January Blood Omen 2 (Eidos)
30th  January VIP (Ubi Soft)
    Outlaw Golf (TDK)
       Robotech - Battlecry (TDK)
    Bounty Hunter (Lucas Arts)
    Evolution Skateboarding (Konami)
   

February
    6 February Evolution World/NEO (Ubi Soft)
20th  February Super Bust A Move All
Stars/3000 (Ubi Soft)
28th February Rolling (Rage)
28th February Paris Dakar 2 (Acclaim)
    Disney Sports Skateboarding (Konami)
    Pac Man World 2 (Namco/EA)   
    Super Monkey Ball 2  (Infogrames/SEGA)      
Rally Championship (Sales Curve)
       Darkened Skye (TDK)       
Jimmy Neutron Boy Genius (THQ)    
    Battle Bots (THQ)       
Summoner 2: The Prophecy (THQ)    
    Rugrats Royal Ransom (THQ)    
    Rayman 3 Hoodlum Havoc (Ubi Soft)
      

March
1st March Shaun Murray’s Pro Wakeboarder (Activision)
7th March Resident Evil 0 (Capcom)
7th March Phantasy Star Online  (Infogrames/SEGA)      
21st March Metroid Prime (Nintendo)    
27 March City Racer (Ubi Soft)
Zapper (Infogrames)
Batman - Dark Tomorrow  (Kemco/Kotobuki)
RTX Red Rock (Lucas Arts)
    Disney Sports Basketball (Konami)
MBWR (TDK)
Monsters Inc. Scream Arena (THQ)
    ET Search for Dragora (Ubi Soft)
Tom & Jerry (Ubi Soft)
Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon (Ubi Soft)
      

Q1
Celebrity Deathmatch (Gotham Games/Take 2)
    NFL 2K3 (Infogrames)
NHL 2K3 (Infogrames)
Skies of Arcadia (Infogrames)
Monopoly Party (Infogrames)
Racing Simulation 3 (Ubi Soft)
Freeky Flyers (Midway)

April
4th April Def Jam Vendetta (EA)
 Hitman 2: Silent Assassin (Eidos)
       Drome Racers (Lego/EA)
Island Xtreme Stunts (Lego/EA)
Conflict: Desert Storm (Sales Curve)
WWE Crush Hour (THQ)

May
3rd May The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker (Nintendo)
NBA Street Vol 2 (EA)
    Gladius (Lucas Arts)
Enter the Matrix  (Infogrames)
    Dragon’s Lair 3D  (THQ)
    Shrek Super Party (TDK)
   

June
Wario World (Nintendo)
GALIDOR: Defenders of the Outer Dimension (Lego/EA)

Q2 Castleween (Wanadoo)
X-Men Wolverine’s Revenge (Activision)
   NBA 2K3 (Infogrames)
Crashed (Rage)
Twin Caliber (Rage)
Futurama (Sales Curve)
The Great Escape (Sales Curve)
    Lost Kingdoms II (Activision)   
   

August
WWE Wrestlemania X9 (THQ)
   

September   
       BIONICLE: Mask of Light (Lego/EA)
      

Q3
    Tom Clancy’s Rainbow 6 - Raven Shield (Ubi Soft)
XIII (Ubi Soft)

Q3/Q4
F-Zero (Nintendo)
Mario Golf (Nintendo)
1080° Avalanche (Nintendo)   
Mario Kart (Nintendo)

October
Sphinx (THQ)
Disney/Pixar Finding Nemo (THQ)
   

November
       Scooby Doo (THQ)   
   

December   
       Power Rangers Ninja Force (THQ)       

Q4
Lamborghini (Rage)
    Golf (Studio 3)
The Last Ninja (Studio 3)
Scary Tales 2003 (Wanadoo)
   

2003
Pikmin 2 (Nintendo)
Tankers (Titus)
Rubu Tribe (Virgin)    

TBC
P.N.03
Viewtiful Joe
Dead Phoenix
Killer 7
 

[The highlights this year from Nintendo for Europe.]

242

TalkBack / Nintendo in Europe 2003

« on: January 07, 2003, 06:14:32 AM »

The highlights this year from Nintendo for Europe.

NINTENDO 2003

After an impressive 2002, NINTENDO turn up the heat in 2003

1. NINTENDO GAMECUBE is the number 2 console in Europe
2. New Game Boy Advance SP launches in Europe on 28th March 2003
3. First ever online game for NINTENDO GAMECUBE, Phantasy Star Online from Sega, launches on March 7th 2003
4. Over 80 new NINTENDO GAMECUBE games launching in 2003
5. Over 60 new Game Boy Advance games launching in 2003

2002 has been a fantastic year for NINTENDO, with NINTENDO GAMECUBE coming out of the key Christmas period in the number 2 position for home consoles across Europe.    

2003 sees NINTENDO shift up a gear with the launch of the latest addition to the Game Boy Advance range, along with a huge raft of software launches – over 80 additional titles for the NINTENDO GAMECUBE and over 60 titles for the Game Boy Advance.

For the Game Boy Advance Nintendo has given the console a completely new sleek design to appeal to the most style conscious consumers of handheld technology. The Game Boy Advance SP, the latest incarnation of the world famous Nintendo Game Boy, is a truly pocket-sized gadget. The console will be available in 3 premium metallic finishes, silver, black and blue and Nintendo has introduced further innovations to suit its new image, including a flip-top screen with an integrated front screen light, plus a rechargeable lithium battery similar to those found in mobile phones, offering gamers over 10 hours of continuous illuminated game-play.   When the front light is turned off, the continual play increases to approximately 18 hours.

All current and future Game Boy Advance games are compatible with the new system, not to mention the swathes of forthcoming new titles.  Games hitting the shelves in 2003 include Golden Sun 2, Advance Wars 2, Super Monkey Ball jr (Infogrames), Formula One, Need for Speed and Rayman 3 Hoodlum Havoc (Ubi Soft), all of which will find a perfect home on the Game Boy Advance SP.  Game Boy Advance SP will go on sale in Europe 28th March.

2003 also sees a range of awesome software releases for NINTENDO GAMECUBE, the first of which is the eagerly awaited Metroid Prime, which arrives in March.  Capcom’s Resident Evil series continues exclusively on NINTENDO GAMECUBE in the all-new Resident Evil 0.  

2003 will also see the much anticipated return of Link in the new The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and sports fans are looking forward to the latest in the 1080_ Snowboarding series, 1080_ Avalanche, the essential adrenalin game, plus two classic racing titles from Nintendo’s stable make their debut on NINTENDO GAMECUBE – F-Zero and Mario Kart.    

Sega continues its support for the console with a selection of top exclusive titles including the first ever online NINTENDO GAMECUBE game Phantasy Star Online which launches on 7th  March.

The cream of next year’s releases doesn’t end there as NINTENDO GAMECUBE blockbusters just keep coming.   Already the list includes Rayman 3 Hoodlum Havoc and Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon from Ubi Soft, Def Jam Vendetta from EA and True Crime, Lost Kingdoms II and Shaun Murry’s Pro Wakeboarder from Activision.  Gamers are also looking forward to Blood Omen 2 and Hitman 2: Silent Assassin, guaranteed to be hot releases from Eidos along with Enter The Matrix from Infogrames and RTX Red Rock from Lucas Arts.

David Gosen, Managing Director of Nintendo of Europe comments: “Nintendo will continue to be the games industry leader to watch in 2003. The new Game Boy Advance SP brings even more style, not to mention new features, to gaming on the go plus there will be a host of fantastic new software releases supporting the worlds favourite portable games console … and NINTENDO GAMECUBE sees over 80 new titles join an already impressive range, with a weighty range of blockbuster and exclusive titles.

We’re looking forward to offering gamers of all ages and all tastes the highest quality gaming experience that they’ve come to demand and expect from Nintendo.”

Click onto www.nintendo-europe.com for all of the most up to date official information on Nintendo.

[Photos from the launch of Zelda: Kaze no Takuto in Japan.]

243

TalkBack / Legend of Zelda released in Japan!

« on: December 13, 2002, 05:34:08 AM »

Photos from the launch of Zelda: Kaze no Takuto in Japan.

Today the Legend of Zelda: Kaze no Takuto went on sale in Japan. Here are some photos from a store launch.  

 

[Nintendo's marketing plans for Europe this Christmas and a release date for Metroid Prime!]

244

TalkBack / €20 million European Marketing this Christmas

« on: November 18, 2002, 09:31:46 AM »

Nintendo's marketing plans for Europe this Christmas and a release date for Metroid Prime!

Today a number of release dates were announced for high profile titles in 2003. Firstly, Metroid Prime and Resident Evil 0 will be available from March 3rd 2003. Here are a few quarter specific releases:

Quarter 1 2003 Phantasy Star Online     Super Monkeyball 2    Rayman 3 Hoodlum Havoc    Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon

Quarter 2 The Legend of Zelda       1080º Avalanche          Wario World Enter The Matrix Hitman 2: Silent Assassin

Quarter 2/3 True Crime

Quarter 4 Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles

Below is the press release detailing the marketing campaign this Christmas.  

Nintendo Announces €20 million European Marketing Campaign for Christmas 2002

15 November 2002 – This Christmas there will be over 100 fantastic titles available on the NINTENDO GAMECUBE, over 20 of them exclusive to the platform.  The NINTENDO GAMECUBE is still the lowest price next generation home console on the market.  These facts alone make NINTENDO GAMECUBE an essential purchase this Christmas for anyone serious about their video games.

Throughout December there will be a heavyweight marketing campaign supporting the 1st & 3rd party game titles available this Christmas and into 2003.  The titles featured in the campaign showcase the breadth and depth of games on NINTENDO GAMECUBE, and include Eternal Darkness, FIFA 2003, Starfox Adventures, Metroid Prime, Legend of Zelda, Resident Evil 0, Super Mario Sunshine, Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles & 1080 Avalanche.  

Range ads for both NINTENDO GAMECUBE & Game Boy Advance will be running on terrestrial & satellite television channels throughout December.

Individual tactical campaigns will run for key 1st party NINTENDO GAMECUBE titles Starfox Adventures, Mario Party 4 & Metroid Fusion, and also for Game Boy Advance.

The Starfox Adventures campaign is underpinned with the strapline, “A planet with fear needs a hero with none”.  There will be a 3 week terrestrial & satellite campaign targeting 15-34 year olds, plus a national 6-sheet poster campaign & extensive in-store activity with key retailers.

Mario Party 4 will be promoted on Cartoon Network, with bespoke online activity and a heavy in-store presence.

The release of Metroid Fusion on GBA will be supported by heavyweight television advertising set to break at the end of November across terrestrial & satellite channels.  In addition, a significant national outdoor campaign will run concurrently utilising transport media (bus sides, London Underground and trams in Croydon, Sheffield & the Midlands) in major urban centres.

The Game Boy Advance will be promoted using the “Entertainment on the go” message, communicated via a heavyweight 5 week outdoor campaign using similar outdoor transport media to Metroid Fusion across bus, tube & tram panels.

The above tactical campaigns will be bolstered by comprehensive PR support in the form of targeted reviews and editorial features across specialist and lifestyle media, in the press, TV & radio.

In store POS and trade advertising will be used to communicate the £129.99 solus price of the NINTENDO GAMECUBE.  The heavyweight in-store campaign will include windows, front of store POS, gondola ends, direct mail and training of store staff on the extensive range of games available for the format this Christmas.

This Christmas promises to be a very busy one for Nintendo, and is the first since the launch of NINTENDO GAMECUBE in the UK.

Click onto www.Nintendo-europe.com for all of the most up to date official information on Nintendo.  

[Take a look at an advertisement for the WaveBird's European welcome.]

245

TalkBack / WaveBird in Europe Next Friday

« on: November 15, 2002, 12:33:40 PM »

Take a look at an advertisement for the WaveBird's European welcome.

Next week the WaveBird controller is released across Europe. The advertisement below was seen in this week's edition of MCV, a trade title for the UK games market.  

Other releases next Friday include Star Fox Adventures, Ace Golf, Rocky and Ty the Tazmanian Tiger for GameCube as well as Castlevania: Harmony of Dissonance, Eggo Mania and Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4 for GBA.  

 

 

 

 

[We have some pictures of IBM's latest advertisement promoting Nintendo.]

246

TalkBack / IBM Advertisements Promote Business Partners

« on: November 08, 2002, 06:46:22 AM »

We have some pictures of IBM's latest advertisement promoting Nintendo.

IBM are running a series of advertisements promoting their business partners, including Nintendo. These pictures were taken at two London Underground stations.  

IBM were the developers of GameCube's "Gekko" processor, based on the PowerPC architecture and recently announced the shipment of the 10 millionth chip.  

Please note the servers mentioned in the ad are in regard to Nintendo of America's systems and not directly related to games.  

Thanks to Imran Yusuf for the pictures!

[Follow the clues in a hunt for the £10,000 prize on the Star Wars: Bounty Hunter website.]

247

TalkBack / Star Wars: Bounty Hunter Promotion in the UK

« on: November 04, 2002, 10:36:34 AM »

Follow the clues in a hunt for the £10,000 prize on the Star Wars: Bounty Hunter website.

Win £10,000 with Star Wars: Bounty HunterTM - The hunt begins in the biggest Star Wars give away ever!

LucasArts and Activision are challenging the nation to take on the role of Jango Fett, the star of Star Wars: Bounty HunterTM on PlayStation 2® and GameCube to search for bounty, including a first prize of £10,000 in cash.

'The Hunt Begins' on December 9, 2002. To register to play call 0906 3027 232 or log on to the official website: www.thehuntbegins.co.uk. The competition closes on the December 31, 2002.  

For a chance to win you must track down five clues, collect the correct answers and stake your claim on the bounty.

The winners will be announced on January 12, 2003 on the official website. One lucky bounty hunter will wipe away the New Year blues by walking away with the £10,000 cash prize. Hundred's more will win Star Wars merchandise and other galactic goodies. This is the biggest Star Wars bounty hunt ever, so don't miss your chance to be a winner and register today.

'The Hunt Begins' is backed by a nationwide marketing campaign including TV, print and online adverts and a dedicated consumer and specialist PR campaign.

Star Wars: Bounty HunterTM is due for release on PlayStation 2®, November 29 2002 and GameCube, January 2003. You play Jango Fett, the galaxy's most fearsome bounty hunter. Through 18 action-packed levels and across six diverse worlds you must face off against the galactic scum that stands between you and your prey - a deranged dark Jedi.  

[Flying planes with guns. The only GameCube game in which you can partake in flying combat, it says.]

248

TalkBack / Titus Ships Top Gun: Combat Zones

« on: November 01, 2002, 12:50:03 PM »

Flying planes with guns. The only GameCube game in which you can partake in flying combat, it says.

Top Gun ™-Combat Zones prepared for takeoff on the Nintendo GameCube™

CHATSWORTH, California, October 28, 2002 –You better throw on your flight suit and strap down your Nintendo GameCube™, because it is about to take flight. That’s right, Top Gun™ Combat Zones is reaching peak altitude on the Nintendo GameCube™ this Fall. Any wet behind the ears, crybaby rookies need not apply…Top Gun™ -Combat Zones will test your courage, your confidence and your stomach as you barrel roll away from enemy fire and prove that you are worth of being a Top Gun! Do you think you can handle the pressure? Well do ya!  

Titus VP of Sales & Marketing, Bob O’Connor is very enthusiastic about being the only flight-combat title available on the Nintendo GameCube™. Bob explains that, “Top Gun™ Combat Zones will take full advantage of the Nintendo GameCube’s™ capabilities.” The game has been redesigned to appeal to the core target audience, looking for a thrilling aerial adventure. All of the excitement of Top Gun™ Combat Zones, combined with the magnificent graphics of the Nintendo GameCube™ and easier gameplay controls make for a direct hit this fall!

Spanning 4 different locales and 3 different time eras, this title offers enough variety for even the most seasoned gaming pilot. Choose from 8 different planes including the F-14 Tomcat, F-18 Hornet and Osprey. The campaign editor allows for thousands of different mission variations and are all fully customizable. Whether you are training at Miramar or maneuvering through hostile war zones, Top Gun™-Combat Zones will keep you pinned against your seat.

If you think you’ve got what it takes to be Top Gun, get out to your favorite videogame retailer and pick up a copy today. Now available for $49.99--- And at least dropping this 50 won’t tire out your arms!

[The previously PC-only developer will be releasing a platformer in 2003.]

249

TalkBack / GMX Media Announces Kien for GBA

« on: October 30, 2002, 09:47:50 AM »

The previously PC-only developer will be releasing a platformer in 2003.

GMX Media Announces Kien

GMX Media announced its first console game today. The title, Kien, will be released for the Gameboy Advance Console early 2003. Kien is an action/platform game with RPG elements. The player's task is to complete an epic, non-linear quest in a fantasy-inspired world, helping the two young heroes in their challenge to defeat the Powers of Evil. The world of Kien is composed of 23 long, challenging levels, each boasting richly detailed and colourful 2D graphics, appealing features, well-animated characters as well as eye-pleasing environments and backgrounds.

"Kien is just about the best RPG title on the GBA, the response from play-testers has been very positive to say the least". Commented Barry Leonard COO of GMX Media. "We are quite certain that it will be one of the top GBA titles for 2003"

GMX Media plans to announce a PS1 title in the coming weeks. More titles are due to be announced as the year progresses covering the PS2, Xbox and PC Platforms. The company also plans to kick-off a 3-week TV campaign early 2003 to further re-enforce the brand.  

Kien is set for release in Q1 2003. More information and the in-game movie can be found at:

http://www.gmxmedia.net/kien

[The]

250

TalkBack / Nintendo Responds to European Commission Fine

« on: October 30, 2002, 09:36:13 AM »

The

The European Commission has fined Nintendo a total of €167.8 for breaking anti-trust laws and keeping prices artificially high in certain regions of Europe during 1991-1998. €149 of the fine is directed at Nintendo with the rest of the total charged to seven European distributors of Nintendo products. It is thought that prices have varied by up to 65% in different European countries, and aggressive attempts to prevent cross territory shipments.  

NINTENDO REPLIES FOLLOWING EUROPEAN COMMISSION DECISION

30th October 2002 - The European Commission has today levied a fine on Nintendo Co., Ltd. of Japan and Nintendo of Europe.  

The Commission has found that certain of Nintendo's distribution practices in Europe in the period up to 1998 did not comply with EU competition rules. In particular it has found that Nintendo restricted parallel trade within the EU.  

The decision relates to an investigation process that ended more than two years ago. Since then, the decision has been delayed by internal Commission procedures.  

Nintendo co-operated fully with the Commission's investigation and, following an internal review launched in late 1997, voluntarily provided much of the information relied on by the Commission in taking its decision.

Nintendo accepts the finding that, up to 1998, its distribution practices did not comply with EU competition rules. Nintendo has rectified the relevant aspects of its distribution in Europe and has instigated a thorough and far-reaching compliance programme that enables the free flow of product across Europe.

Nintendo has accounted for the decision in its previous planning, so that there will be no impact on its business and financial performance this financial year. However in view of the size of the fine, which Nintendo finds surprising Nintendo will lodge an appeal.