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[It plays the same games as your SP does, but now it's tiny.]

426

TalkBack / RE:Nintendo Announces Game Boy Micro

« on: May 17, 2005, 08:28:59 AM »

It plays the same games as your SP does, but now it's tiny.

NINTENDO’S GAME BOY MICRO  PROJECTS A DYNAMIC NEW IMAGE    

Best-Selling Video Game System Sports a Striking New Look    

LOS ANGELES, May 17, 2005 – The original Game Boy® Advance fits comfortably into the pocket of a backpack. The retooled Game Boy® Advance SP fits into a coat pocket. Now Nintendo takes aim at the pocket of your tightest jeans with the tiny Game Boy® Micro system, quite simply the smallest and sleekest Game Boy® product that Nintendo has ever created. It’s thinner than a cell phone, as chic as an MP3 player and as fun as a Game Boy. In an instant it attracts attention and positions the image-conscious player as someone on the cutting edge of cool.    

  The sporty, silver metal Game Boy Micro measures a mere 4 inches wide, 2 inches tall and 0.7 inches deep, allowing it to sit comfortably alongside today’s hippest technological gadgets. It weighs an astonishing 2.8 ounces, or about the weight of 80 paper clips. Yet Game Boy Micro has the same processing power and plays the same games as Game Boy Advance SP models, complete with standard face controls and gleaming shoulder and Start/Select buttons that literally shine.    

  With Game Boy Micro, everyone plays with style. A removable face plate gives owners the option to buy replacements to customize the look of their systems again and again with new colors and designs. Most notably, its 2-inch backlit screen shines with incredible power, rendering games in startling clarity with fantastic colors on the best Game Boy screen ever. For the first time, users can adjust the brightness of the screen to adapt to indoor lights or outdoor sunshine.  “We’re making the gorgeous Game Boy Micro for image-conscious folks who love video games, the ones who want the look of their system to be as cool as the games they play on it,” says George Harrison, Nintendo of America’s senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. “Because of its diminutive size and industrial-hip look, Game Boy Micro immediately identifies the person playing it as a trendsetter with discriminating style.”    

  Game Boy Micro represents the latest evolution in the image of the Game Boy Advance line, but it is not a successor to any current system. Game Boy Micro will be released this fall. The system comes with a built-in, rechargeable lithium-ion battery and supports standard headphones.    

  The Game Boy Advance line remains tied for the most popular video game system of this generation. More than 28 million units have sold in the United States, yet Game Boy Advance launched a full eight months after PlayStation 2. Video game fans clearly appreciate great game play and portability. Nearly 700 games are now available for Game Boy Advance.    

[Still no name but we have the details! Lots of features inside.]

427

TalkBack / Nintendo Reveals

« on: May 17, 2005, 08:21:09 AM »

Still no name but we have the details! Lots of features inside.

NINTENDO’S COMPACT CONSOLE WILL  TURN THE WORLD OF GAMING ON ITS SIDE    

New System will be Forward-Thinking, Yet Backward Compatible    

LOS ANGELES, May 17, 2005 – Each generation of video game consoles builds on the past to set new standards for the future. As the company with the strongest heritage of innovation, Nintendo redefines expectations for all next-gen systems by employing a wide-ranging strategy to attract more kinds of gamers to more kinds of games. When Nintendo’s new console, code-named Revolution, arrives in 2006, everyone will discover the meaning of All-Access Gaming.    

  “We will show the world what a next-gen system can be. Revolution marries the strongest heritage of innovation to the future of gaming,” says Nintendo President Satoru Iwata. “With backward compatibility and the ‘virtual console’ concept, the stylish, compact body provides maximum gaming power. It will not only take home entertainment into another dimension by expanding the definition of video games, but it also will give you access to the great history of gaming.”    

  Some of the system features that wowed the crowd at the Electronics Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles include:    

·   The cool look: The new console boasts high-quality materials and a smart, compact design, approximately the size of three standard DVD cases stacked together. A variety of prototype colors are being showcased during E3. It will come with a silver stand that makes the system a welcome, artistic component of any multimedia setup, whether it’s displayed vertically or horizontally.    

·   Backward compatibility: The new console plays all games from the current Nintendo GameCube™ generation. But there’s more…    

·   The secret weapon: The console also will have downloadable access to 20 years of fan-favorite titles originally released for Nintendo® 64, the Super Nintendo Entertainment System® (SNES) and even the Nintendo Entertainment System® (NES).    

·   Easy expansion: A bay for an SD memory card will let players expand the internal flash memory.    

·   Two disc formats, one slot: Instead of a tray, a single, innovative, self-loading media bay will play both 12-centimeter optical discs used for the new system as well as Nintendo GameCube discs. Owners will have the option of equipping a small, self-contained attachment to play movies and other DVD content.    

·   The specs: The system boasts 512 megabytes of internal flash memory, wireless controllers, two USB 2.0 ports and built-in Wi-Fi access. A worldwide network of Nintendo players can gather to compete in a comfortable, inviting environment. Revolution’s technological heart, a processing chip developed with IBM and code-named “Broadway,” and a graphics chip set from ATI code-named “Hollywood,” will deliver game experiences not previously possible.    

·   The stars: Introduction of a number of new franchise properties will add to the world’s richest stable of stars, including Mario, Zelda, Super Smash Bros., Donkey Kong and Metroid.    

·   Wireless freedom: A number of Wi-Fi-enabled launch titles are in development that will employ Nintendo’s newly announced wireless gaming service, Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection. A worldwide network of Nintendo players can gather to compete in a comfortable, inviting environment.    

·   Freedom of design: A dynamic development architecture equally accommodates both big-budget, high-profile game “masterpieces” as well as indie games conceived by individual developers equipped with only a big idea.    

“Our next console proves small in size but big on ideas,” says Reggie Fils-Aime, Nintendo of America’s executive vice president of sales & marketing. “We’re throwing open the doors of gaming to wider audiences, from casual players to hard-core gamers who live for the thrill of defeating an endless army of wireless opponents.”    

  Nintendo’s All-Access Gaming philosophy covers the spectrum. The next console fits anywhere. It brings together new games and old. It gives people worldwide access through wireless Wi-Fi connections. And it opens the world of video games – to everyone. Software for the new console will even attract people who don’t consider themselves players. Adults, kids, men and women around the world will have access to the most popular video game characters, the best game franchises and the most engaging experiences yet developed – only with Nintendo.    

 

[The first details and picture of the Revolution surface.]

428

TalkBack / Revolution Revealed!

« on: May 17, 2005, 04:11:55 AM »

The first details and picture of the Revolution surface.

USA Today has an article on the Nintendo Revolution (currently still a code-name), showing a picture of the console.    

The console has a front loading slot that can play games on full size DVDs as well as the smaller GameCube discs. It looks like a small flat box and has no visible controller ports as it will use only wireless controllers.      

It will be around 2-3 times more powerful than the GameCube is currently and offer broadband access to a player matching service and to what is said to be downloadable versions of nearly every Nintendo game. Games from the original Donkey Kong to Super Mario Sunshine are mentioned, but charges for the service have not yet been decided.    

One of the aims of the Revolution is for easier development than the other upcoming consoles as designers will not have to make major changes, but still have extra power to work with.    

We'll have more coming up soon as the Nintendo Conference will take place this morning.    

 

[Capcom comes up with an English version of the court room battle series from Japan.]

429

TalkBack / Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Announced for DS

« on: May 16, 2005, 03:23:48 PM »

Capcom comes up with an English version of the court room battle series from Japan.

   

 E3, LOS ANGELES May 18, 2005 — All rise!  Capcom® today presented Phoenix Wright:   Ace Attorney for Nintendo DS(TM), the first in the popular court room battle series from Japan to be   ®  released in PAL territories.  While the series’ previous three entries appeared on the Game Boy   Advance system in Japan, this marks its debut on the Nintendo DS.    

    Not everyone is innocent until proven guilty!  Players star as a defence attorney, who must prove   his seemingly guilty client’s innocence no matter how dire the circumstances may seem.  The   game presents twisting storylines and intriguing gameplay in a comical anime style.  Players must   collect evidence, weed through inconsistent testimonies, and overcome corrupt agendas to   ensure that justice prevails.  Capcom plans to release Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney across PAL   territories this autumn.      

  Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney includes the following features:      

• Play from the first person perspective through five intriguing cases    

• Two distinct gameplay segments:    

o Investigation phase – survey crime scenes, interview witnesses and gather evidence   that will be used in court    

o Court phase – present findings from the investigation to support your case, listen to   testimonies, examine witnesses, and determine what is fact from fiction so you can prove   your client’s innocence    

• Colourful cast of characters    

o Phoenix Wright – the game’s main character who is an accomplished defence lawyer   with a keen sense for discerning fact from truth    

o Maya Fey – a bright young girl that aids Phoenix in his trials; she is learning to harness    

her psychic powers which will prove useful in a pinch    

o Mia Fey – an ace attorney who taught Phoenix everything she knows about the courtroom   and continues to support him as a mentor    

o Miles Edgeworth – Phoenix’s arch rival, this slick prosecutor has never lost a case; his   intense hatred for criminal behaviour drives him to use any means to ensure a guilty   verdict    

[Even more Megaman for your GBA as Zero 4 makes it to PAL territories.]

430

TalkBack / Capcom Announces Mega Man Zero 4 for GBA

« on: May 16, 2005, 03:12:38 PM »

Even more Megaman for your GBA as Zero 4 makes it to PAL territories.

MENACING CHALLENGES AWAIT THE BLUE BOMBER AS CAPCOM ANNOUNCES MEGA MAN ZERO 4 FOR THE GAME BOY ADVANCE    

- New Gameplay System and Intense Action Enhances Latest Entry in ‘Zero’ Series -    

E3, LOS ANGELES, May 18, 2005— Capcom(C), a leading worldwide developer and publisher   of video games, today announced Megaman Zero 4 for the Game Boy® Advance video game   system.  Featuring new gameplay elements that elevate the handheld series to new heights,    

  Megaman Zero 4 maintains the tradition of delivering an exciting 2D action game that chronicles the dramatic ‘Zero’ saga. Megaman Zero 4 is scheduled for release throughout PAL territories   this autumn.        

After falling under the evil rule of Dr. Weil, Neo Arcadia has collapsed into a state of chaos and   confusion.  Zero discovers this disastrous turn of events when he and his friends come to the   rescue of a band of humans fleeing Neo Arcadia.  Now it’s up to our hero Zero to resolve this   terrible conflict between humans and reploids to restore peace and security to the land.  With new   systems to seize enemy weapons and create strengthening chips, plus new Cyber elf programs   to introduce new abilities, this is the most exhilarating action to ever coming to the Game Boy   Advance.        

Megaman Zero 4 boasts the following features:      

• Four Brand New Systems Implemented For Enhanced Gameplay:    

o New “Weapon Seizing” System – By skilfully defeating enemies, players can collect   various weaponry and parts from their opponents to use as sub-weapons      

o New “Weather Changing” System – As you progress through the game, players have   the ability to change the weather, concurrently altering the level of difficulty and maps.   When it snows, dangerous spikes are now covered, making it easier to proceed onward.   Hidden routes are revealed when the weather clears.    

o New “Item Recipe” System – By combining the parts that are taken away from defeated   enemy Reploids with items that are found throughout the game, you can create new chips   and equip them.    

o New “Elf Customizing” System –Customize your own Cyber elf to best suits your   unique fighting style. Utilize up to three types of elf abilities: ‘Nurse-type’ regenerates   Zero’s health; ‘Animal-type’ improves movement and provides back-up attacks; ‘Hacker-  type’ increases movement and fighting techniques.      

[As for the DS version? Both the GBA games and extras including wireless multiplayer battle.]

431

TalkBack / Megaman Battle Network 5 for DS too!

« on: May 16, 2005, 02:58:29 PM »

As for the DS version? Both the GBA games and extras including wireless multiplayer battle.

CAPCOM’S FAMOUS BLUE BOMBER BATTLES HIS WAY ONTO THE  NINTENDO DS IN MEGAMAN BATTLE NETWORK 5: DOUBLE TEAM      

 E3, LOS ANGELES  May 18, 2005— The handheld cyber battle wages on as Capcom® today   announced plans to release Megaman Battle Network 5®: Double Team for the Nintendo   DS™.  An adaptation of Megaman Battle Network 5: Team Protoman and Team Colonel for   the Game Boy® Advance video game system, Double Team has players assisting Megaman   and friends to once again liberate areas of the Internet taken over by an evil organization.   Building on the prior Megaman Battle Network games, Double Team will be enhanced with   interchangeable characters, an upgraded “Soul Unison” system and other exclusive features.    Megaman Battle Network 5: Double Team is scheduled to be unleashed throughout PAL   territories this autumn.    

   One month has passed since the battle ended with the Dark Chip Syndicate for the earth’s   existence. Now back under the new name "Nebula", this evil organization is attempting to take   complete control over the global internet. Now players must team up with other cyber heroes to   liberate the Nebula-controlled areas of the internet and stop this malevolent organization.          

In Megaman Battle Network 5: Double Team, players must partake in an extensive liberating   mission where they must defeat the evil organization that waits, while acquiring and using up to   six Navi allies to help progress through the adventure. Each Battle Network version has a set of   specialized cohorts that can be obtained including characters from Battle Network 4. Working as   a team will be crucial to liberate the Nebula-controlled areas.  Plug into flashbacks of stored   digital data and images which will uncover information that may help resolve unanswered   questions.        

The "Soul Unison" system returns, allowing players to utilize the special abilities from allies and   defeated enemies encountered in the game, enabling Megaman to use their powers during battle.   Furthermore, the tempting "Dark Chip" will re-emerge. Using the new “Chaos Union” system,   players can fuse this attractive chip with an ally’s ‘soul’ allowing them to control the power of the   darkness.         Megaman Battle Network 5: Double Team includes the following:      

o Contains the original Megaman Battle Network 5: Team Protoman and Team Colonel   editions plus all new features exclusive to the system:      

o Use your favourite Navis - When battling in liberation missions, players can transport   their favourite Navi into your current version from the other version and vice versa.  Now   Team Colonel and Team Protoman are completely interlinked!    

o Go Wireless – Battle tournament style with several participants!    

o Dual Screen Functionality – Players can access their Cyber Map and PET through the   dual screen.      

o Cheer on Megaman - Built in Mic support helps to power him up!    

o Carry over chip data from prior GBA games into the Dual Screen version!  

[Two versions of Megaman Battle Network 5 for Game Boy Advance.]

432

TalkBack / (No subject)

« on: May 16, 2005, 02:52:28 PM »

Two versions of Megaman Battle Network 5 for Game Boy Advance.

THE BATTLE WAGES ON AS CAPCOM® ANNOUNCES MEGAMAN BATTLE NETWORK 5 TEAM PROTOMAN AND TEAM COLONEL FOR THE GAME BOY ADVANCE    

 E3, LOS ANGELES May 18, 2005— The handheld cyber battle resumes as Capcom® today   confirmed plans to release Megaman Battle Network 5 in two versions - Team Protoman and   Team Colonel for the Game Boy® Advance video game system.  Emancipate the internet once   and for all from the cyber menaces that await Megaman, his pal Lan and friends as players   experience the most exciting ‘Battle Network’ adventure yet. Building on the prior Megaman   Battle Network games, the Protoman and Colonel versions will be distinctly enhanced with   different enemies, characters, souls and battle chips. Megaman Battle Network 5 Team   Protoman and Megaman Battle Network 5 Team Colonel are scheduled to be released in PAL   territories this June.      

Once month has passed since the battle ended with the Dark Chip Syndicate for the earth’s   existence. Now an evil organization called the “Nebula” is attempting to take complete control over the global internet. Now players must team up with other cyber heroes to liberate the Nebula-controlled areas of the internet and stop this malevolent organization.    

  In Megaman Battle Network 5, players must partake in an extensive liberating mission where   they must defeat the cyber enemies that wait, while acquiring and using up to six Navi allies to help progress through the adventure. Each Battle Network version will have a set of specialized cohorts that can be obtained including characters from previous instalments of the series.    

  Working as a team will be crucial if you want to liberate the Nebula-controlled areas.  Plug into flashbacks of stored digital data and images which will uncover information that may help resolve unanswered questions.        

The “Soul Unison” system returns, allowing players to utilize the special abilities from the opponents’ souls encountered in the game, enabling Megaman to transform and use these   powers during battle. Furthermore, the tempting “Dark Chip” will re-emerge in the “Chaos Unison” system.  This attractive chip permits players to control the power of the darkness but the more times these chips are used, the more Megaman’s Net-Navi’s maximum hit points will dwindle.          

Megaman Battle Network 5 includes the following:      

• Liberation Turf Battle Missions – The battle structure is based on freeing Nebula controlled   areas. By utilizing the abilities of each acquired ally to liberate each region, the field returns to   normal.      

• “Chaos Union” system – Allows players to control the power of the darkness by uniting with a   dark chip.    

• Flashback scenarios– Plug into the past to uncover useful information    

• Distinct features for Team Protoman and Team Colonel    

o Six distinct allies to befriend for a total of 12 Navi comrades    

o Separate storylines in each game    

o Six souls per game, for a total of 12 souls, that can be used in the “Soul Unison” system    

o Assorted battle chips for each version    

o Enemies that are unique to each title  

[A game based on the film, we still don't know which consoles it is for though.]

433

TalkBack / Dirty Harry Game to Next-Gen Consoles

« on: May 16, 2005, 06:34:54 AM »

A game based on the film, we still don't know which consoles it is for though.

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Selects the Collective for Development on Dirty Harry Video Game Franchise; First Dirty Harry Title Currently In Production For Next Generation Consoles    

 BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 16, 2005--Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment has selected The Collective to develop video games based on the Dirty Harry film franchise, which are being produced in partnership with Clint Eastwood's Malpaso and The Tehama Companies. The companies will bring the legendary character "Dirty Harry" Callahan to life on next generation consoles.    

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment is working with The Collective on the development of the first installment of the game franchise with an original Dirty Harry storyline. Academy Award(R) winning director, producer and actor Clint Eastwood will consult on key creative and design aspects of the game while lending his voice and likeness to his renowned role of police detective Harry Callahan.    

"Dirty Harry helped define a genre and introduced the world to a character who has since become a cultural icon, so bringing Clint Eastwood's authentic Dirty Harry character to this next generation of consoles provides exciting promise for game playing audiences everywhere," said Jason Hall, Senior Vice President of Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. "Our work with The Collective is aimed at culminating in a game with an all-new story that allows players to experience the action and suspense of the legendary franchise firsthand."    

"Working with Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and Clint Eastwood to create a compelling, state-of-the-art game that brings Dirty Harry Callahan to life on next generation consoles is very exciting," said Doug Hare, co-founder and Vice President of Production for The Collective. "We are focused on creating genre defining story-telling gameplay, along with next generation graphics depicting action-packed sequences that are consistent with the renowned films."  

[Ridge Racer comes to the DS on the 3rd of June.]

434

TalkBack / Nintendo Announces Ridge Racer DS for Europe

« on: May 16, 2005, 06:32:03 AM »

Ridge Racer comes to the DS on the 3rd of June.

PUT THE PEDAL TO THE METAL: RIDGE RACER™ DS WILL TAKE YOU TO THE REDLINE!    

 16 May 2005 – Experience the race of your life as Ridge Racer™ comes to Nintendo DS with all the fast-paced action of the original arcade legend. With the unprecedented control and responsiveness of Touch Screen steering, as well as the wireless multiplayer mode for 6 player competitions, Ridge Racer™ is set to be the must-have driving game for Nintendo DS when it launches on 3rd June 2005.    

Compete in the Grand Prix mode against 11 computer-controlled cars to unlock all 20 circuits and the Car Attack mode, where you go head-to-head against an opponent in order to win new cars. Ridge Racer™ also offers a Quick Play mode for instant racing and a Time Attack mode.    

There are 32 playable cars in total, all featuring the Ridge Racer™ series’ trademark drift handling. Each car has its own unique statistics (speed, acceleration, handling and grip), so players can pick the car best suited to their driving style. Most models are unlocked by competing in Car Attack mode, but certain secret vehicles can only be obtained by competing in wireless multiplayer with friends. Look out for the exclusive Nintendo and Namco character-themed cars!    

The wireless multiplayer mode allows for the ultimate racing challenge. Up to 6 players can join together to compete in Multi-Card Play, with access to all cars and circuits. In Single-Card Play you only need 1 copy of the game to enjoy multiplayer fun with all of your friends.    

The Nintendo DS launched across Europe on the 11th March 2005 at the estimated retail price of £99.99. Ridge Racer™ DS launches across Europe on 3rd June 2005 at the estimated retail price of around £30.  

[A special event at Virgin Megastores in London Oxford Street today starred "The Bear" from Channel 4 show "Bo Selecta".]

435

TalkBack / "The Bear" shows off Nintendo DS to London Crowds

« on: March 09, 2005, 06:02:53 AM »

A special event at Virgin Megastores in London Oxford Street today starred "The Bear" from Channel 4 show "Bo Selecta".

THE BEAR IS ANNOUNCED AS  THE FACE AND FUR OF NINTENDO DS

Wednesday 9 March 2005 – Today, Nintendo unveiled The Bear, of Channel 4’s Bo’Selecta!, as the face of the revolutionary new gaming console, Nintendo DS.  The Bear touched, rubbed and blew the crowd away, as he got to grips with the new handheld whilst sharing his sofa with four stunning female Nintendo fans.

The Bear was heard excitedly growling that: “This new machine is UNTOLD!!!”

With its dual screens, touch-screen technology, wireless gaming for up to 16 players, voice recognition and advanced full colour 3D graphics, fans across the UK are desperate to get their paws on it too.

Nintendo DS launches on Friday 11 March, however, five Virgin Megastores will be holding official midnight store openings on Thursday 10 March.  London, Birmingham, Cardiff, Glasgow and Liverpool, will all be reopening their stores to let true fans be the first to own a Nintendo DS.

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

 

[Virgin Megastores in five UK locations will open at midnight this Friday to begin DS sales.]

436

TalkBack / Midnight Launch for UK DS

« on: March 09, 2005, 05:58:23 AM »

Virgin Megastores in five UK locations will open at midnight this Friday to begin DS sales.

To celebrate the launch of the Nintendo DS five Virgin Megastores throughout the UK will be opening their doors hours early to sell Nintendo DS consoles. At precisely midnight the Oxford Street branch in London, the 235 Buchanan Street branch in Glasgow, the Pavillion Centre store in Birmingham, the Tops Plaza store in Liverpool and the Queens Street store in Cardiff will all open their doors to crowds of excited gamers, clamouring to be one of the first to touch the future of gaming.

The shopper who is lucky enough to be first through the door at each location will get one of five special Nintendo DS T-shirts indicating that they got a unit first. The next fifty people to purchase a Nintendo DS at each location will get an exclusive "I was TOUCHED by Nintendo DS" T-shirt to show off to all of their friends.

The first fifty customers at the Oxford Street branch will also receive a special Nintendo DS goody bag. Free games will also be given out at the Oxford Street Branch while stocks last.

One lucky attendee will also get to win a once in a lifetime, expenses paid trip to Nintendo's headquarters in Japan, where they will get to see where the magic happens and even meet the creator of Mario, Shigeru Miyamoto.

In both America and Japan the first 500,000 Nintendo DS units sold out in under a week, so can you afford to miss out on the hottest gadget of 2005? If not put on a warm coat and head down to your nearest Virgin Megastore in time to collect your very own Nintendo DS.

The Nintendo DS will revolutionise the hand-held gaming industry when it launches in Europe. It features dual screens, touch-screen, wireless gaming, voice recognition and advanced full colour 3D graphics similar to those seen on home consoles. It will launch in the UK on 11 March 2005 at the estimated retail price of around £99. Software will be available at selected retailers at the estimated retail price of around £29 and £19, depending on the specific title.  

The midnight store openings are at the following locations:

London ­ 14-19 Oxford Street

Birmingham ­ 41-43 The Pavillion Shopping Centre, 38 the Hight Street

Liverpool ­ 8-9 Tops Plaza, Clayton Square Shopping Centre

Glasgow ­ 235 Buchanan Street

Cardiff ­ 7-9 Capital Arcade, The Capital, Queens Street  

[We just got a message from Nintendo that says the Nintendo DS consoles and software for the European launch are ready and waiting to be transported to stores all over Europe. Photos inside!]

437

TalkBack / DS consoles and software ready for European Launch

« on: March 04, 2005, 01:24:57 AM »

We just got a message from Nintendo that says the Nintendo DS consoles and software for the European launch are ready and waiting to be transported to stores all over Europe. Photos inside!

The brand new production line at the DS factory has been very busy producing up to 144,000 units of software a day to be ready for the European launch date on 11th March. There are now 650,000 Nintendo DS consoles and over 2.5 million games that are ready for distribution.  

In the next few days the consoles and games will be taken by over 100 lorries to over 20 European countries where they will be placed on over 30,000 store shelves for the big day.

Here are some images straight from the Nintendo Factory!  

 

[From the 4th of February gamers across the UK will have a chance to try out the DS.]

438

TalkBack / Nintendo UK DS Tour Announced

« on: February 07, 2005, 02:47:55 AM »

From the 4th of February gamers across the UK will have a chance to try out the DS.

TOUCH ME HERE: NINTENDO DS HITS THE ROAD  

Nintendo handheld embarks on biggest ever consumer and trade sampling program in preparation for official UK launch

01 February 2005 – The Nintendo DS is taking to the road from 04 February in a massive consumer and trade sampling campaign.  It will give everyone across the UK the chance to discover what nearly three million gamers in the US and Japan have already discovered – the Nintendo DS is a great new way to play video games.

Kicking off with a national shopping mall tour throughout February, March and into April and taking in amongst the 40 day tour; Bluewater, Brent Cross, The Mall (Cribs Causeway) in the South and The Bullring, Trafford Centre and Meadow Hall in the North. Sampling will also take place at 24 ‘Lock In’ invite only nights at Topman stores nationwide including London, Manchester and Birmingham flagship stores. Gamers across the country will also be able to get their hands on the Nintendo DS at all 42 of the UK’s VUE cinemas between 11 and 12 March, 19 and 20 March and 26 and 27 March in addition to further nationwide sampling activity at Mega Bowl Bowling Alleys, Laser Quest Arenas and All Sports retail stores up to and beyond the launch period. Gamers can find out where and when the tour will arrive at a location near them by logging onto www.touchmehere.co.uk  Games on show will include Nintendo first party titles ‘Super Mario 64 DS’, ‘Wario Ware: Touched!’ puzzle game ‘Polarium’ and ‘Metroid Prime Hunters: First Hunt’. Third party titles include ‘Project Rub’ from Sega, ‘Tiger Woods PGA Tour Golf 2005’ from EA, ‘Asphalt Urban GT’ from Ubisoft and ‘Spiderman 2’ from Activision.  Dawn Paine, Head of Marketing, Nintendo UK, said: “All our research has shown that sampling will be key in getting people to understand and really enjoy Nintendo DS – once people get their hands on it they can’t put it down.”

In addition to this fully comprehensive consumer sampling campaign, Nintendo will also ensure trade and retail get their DS fix courtesy of the ‘DS – Dual Squads’ with over 25,000 in-store sampling hits between now and the launch for store staff. Retailer GAME will be hosting 15 regional superstore evenings where top loyalty card holders will be invited in-store to try out the DS and its great games.

Andy Yates, Head of Retail Development, Nintendo UK, said: “Whenever you make a quantum leap in technology like Nintendo have done with the DS, people inevitably ask lots of questions, however, getting the console into people’s hands immediately changes their perception and opens up their minds to a new way of playing games through touch. For this reason sampling will be pivotal to the success of our trade strategy.”   Nintendo is also placing a record number of free standing interactive Nintendo DS pods into trade from 01 February.  The new striking and eye-catching design will ensure good in-store standout. Nintendo estimate that over 500,000 people will have played the Nintendo DS by the time of launch.

The Nintendo DS will launch in the UK on 11 March 2005 at the estimated retail price of around £99. Nintendo DS software will launch in the UK on 11 March 2005 at the estimated retail price of around £29 and £19 depending on the title.

The Nintendo DS is the new touch screen, dual-screened handheld video game system that redefines how people play videogames. In addition to the touch screen, the system includes both voice input and multiplayer wireless communication. The sleek silver and black system will be a welcome addition to any game collection.  

Click onto www.touchmehere.co.uk for all of the most up to date official information on Nintendo DS sampling.

   

[If you have 1000 stars saved up you could own the DS early! Only if you're quick though.]

439

TalkBack / UK Nintendo VIP Members Special Offer

« on: January 27, 2005, 05:56:19 PM »

If you have 1000 stars saved up you could own the DS early! Only if you're quick though.

THANK YOUR LUCKY STARS!

Nintendo VIPs to experience Nintendo DS before official UK launch

27 January – Nintendo UK is rewarding its VIP stars members by offering them the chance to get their hands on a unique and very special package. Nintendo is giving three thousand UK gamers the chance to own a Nintendo DS and games over a month before the official UK launch date.

From today, VIPs with one thousand stars or more will have the opportunity to cash in their stars and, for £129.99 (€190 in Eire), get their hands on a Nintendo DS VIP Stars Pak. The Pak contains a Nintendo DS console with the Metroid Prime Hunters: First Hunt demo, Super Mario 64DS game, a special Wario Ware: Touched! game demo and a premium Nintendo DS t-shirt – but they’ll have to be quick as the paks are strictly limited to only three thousand.

When they redeem their stars, VIPs will be told to contact the Nintendo customer service centre 24 hours after redemption where they will be able to complete their purchase.

James Honeywell, Product Manager for Handheld Consoles, Nintendo UK, said: “We are very pleased to be able to reward our VIPs with this fantastic offer. It gives our most dedicated and committed fans the chance to experience the Nintendo DS and games well in advance of the official UK launch – it also means we’ll have three thousand people spreading the word about Nintendo DS and its great features in the run up to the 11 March.”

The Nintendo DS will launch in the UK on 11 March 2005 at the estimated retail price of around £99. Software will be available at selected retailers at the estimated retail price of £29 and £19, depending on the specific title.  

To keep up-to-date with the latest and official information on Nintendo visit www.nintendo.co.uk.        

[That's one sequel for GameCube and one for GBA, both allowing you to be a female farmer.]

440

TalkBack / Namco Announces Two New Harvest Moon Titles

« on: January 21, 2005, 08:21:15 PM »

That's one sequel for GameCube and one for GBA, both allowing you to be a female farmer.  

Natsume Inc. announces two Harvest Moon titles for 2005!

Burlingame, CALIFORNIA – January 24, 2004 – Natsume® Inc., a worldwide publisher specializing in unique video games, announced today the addition of two new Harvest Moon® titles to the popular franchise, Harvest Moon: Another Wonderful Life for the Nintendo GameCube™ and Harvest Moon: More Friends of Mineral Town for the Nintendo Game Boy Advance™.  Both titles are expected to ship June of 2005.

“The first Harvest Moon was introduced in 1997 on the Super Nintendo and since then the franchise has grown in popularity and fan base”, stated Hiro Maekawa, President  & CEO of Natsume Inc.  ”We are extremely happy to offer these two new titles to our dedicated and loyal fans”.

Harvest Moon: Another Wonderful Life returns you to the familiar setting of Forget-Me-Not Valley...this time through you play a lifetime on the farm as a female!  Cultivate friendships and raise a family among crops and livestock.  Make important choices as you marry, start a family, grow produce and guide your child through life’s most challenging chapters.

Just as with Harvest Moon: Another Wonderful Life, Harvest Moon: More Friends of Mineral Town lets you play as a female character.  It is up to you to successfully rejuvenate the farm and build a life for yourself with family and friends.  The best part is…you can do it anyway you want!  

The Nintendo Game Cube™ and Game Boy Advance™ versions will link up to connect the 2 towns featured in the games, it will also enable villagers to travel between the towns triggering new events and many surprises.  

[Launch day will see two additional games along with those that are part of the DS package.]

441

TalkBack / Australian DS Launch Titles

« on: January 20, 2005, 04:53:34 PM »

Launch day will see two additional games along with those that are part of the DS package.

Melbourne, Australia, 21st January 2005

With the excitement surrounding the launch date and price of Nintendo DS, Nintendo Australia confirm some of the amazing and innovative software titles that will be available within the initial launch period. The February 24th release date of Nintendo DS including embedded PictoChat and a Metroid Prime Hunters: First Hunt  demo will also see the day one launch of Super Mario 64 DS and WarioWare: Touched! for SRP$69.95.  

During the first couple of months Nintendo titles such as Project Rub by SEGA, Polarium and Pokemon Dash will launch nation-wide. The support from third party publishers witnessed with the overseas launch of Nintendo DS will be mirrored here with Spider-Man 2 from Activision, Asphalt Urban GT and Sprung from UbiSoft, Ping Pals from THQ and Zoo Keeper from QV Software all confirmed to be available for Australian consumers on launch. Upcoming titles for Nintendo DS include The URBZ: Sims in the City, Tiger Woods PGA TOUR® and Need for Speed Underground 2 from Electronic Arts, Rayman® DS  from UbiSoft, Retro Atari Classics from Atari and Robots from Vivendi Universal Games.    

[Metal Slug makes its way to European GBAs on December 17th.]

442

TalkBack / Metal Slug Advance Release Date For Europe

« on: December 06, 2004, 05:02:03 AM »

Metal Slug makes its way to European GBAs on December 17th.

Metal Slug Advances On European Stores

Date Set For The Newest Installment To SNK’s Smash Hit Series

Monday 6 December 2004/... Metal Slug fans worth their salt will rejoice at the news that Metal Slug Advance has a confirmed release date for the Nintendo GBA, as Ignition Entertainment confirm that it will be available in stores from December 17th, and have a S.R.P. of £29.99

With a game experience tailored for the handheld console, Metal Slug Advance features a unique take on the arcade smash hit series. The same thrilling pace of action and frantic bullet dodging that are hallmarks of the series are still in place, but now the game is structured so that players can pick it up for a quick blast as well as embark on a marathon of comedic destruction. The introduction of an energy bar and free-roaming environments are also new to European gamers, and a card-collecting system and gallery for hostages rescued add extra depth and re-playability.

"Metal Slug Advance is a new slant on one of SNK's most loved games," says Peter Rollinson, Product Manager, Ignition Entertainment. "We're delighted to be able to bring this original and brand new instalment to the European public for the first time."

Gameplay features -

# A completely new instalment to the Metal Slug series

# Collect over 100 different E-cards which enhance your character's ability

# Keep a record of all the POWs you rescue in the hostage file

# Five huge, gloriously detailed action-packed levels

# Four secret dungeons to unlock

 Ignition Entertainment will release SNK PLAYMORE's Metal Slug Advance on December 17th 2004 exclusively for the Gameboy Advance, and it will carry a S.R.P. of £29.99  

[If you find one of six golden tickets in the Zelda GBA SP bundle released today, you could get a very special prize.]

443

TalkBack / Gold Plated GBA SPs in the UK!

« on: November 12, 2004, 03:56:02 AM »

If you find one of six golden tickets in the Zelda GBA SP bundle released today, you could get a very special prize.

WILL YOUR QUEST LEAD YOU TO GOLD?

Gold fever hits the UK as the search for Nintendo’s Golden Tickets begins

09 November - To celebrate the launch of The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap on Game Boy Advance and the new Zelda Limited Edition Game Boy Advance SP, Nintendo has planted six golden tickets in Zelda Limited Edition Pak boxes across the UK. Those lucky enough to find one of the tickets will instantly win a strictly limited edition gold plated Game Boy Advance SP!   Nintendo is giving gamers everywhere the chance to instantly win one of these unique handhelds through any one of six UK high street retailers: Game, Gamestation, HMV, Virgin WH Smith and Toys R Us. The retailers will be advertising this exclusive promotion with extensive in store POS posters and leaflets in the run up to Christmas. Full details and terms and conditions can be found at www.nintendoterms.co.uk   Nintendo UK Head of Marketing Dawn Paine said: “Gold has always been closely associated with The Legend of Zelda franchise from the original Legend of Zelda NES game on a gold coloured cartridge to the mysterious golden Triforce that Link hunts down on his quests. Now Nintendo has gone one to step further to create what must be the ultimate jewel in any Zelda fan’s crown.”

The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap is the latest adventure in the long running The Legend of Zelda franchise. Released from the broken power of an ancient mystical sword, Vaati the wind mage is wreaking havoc on the Land of Hyrule. The only way to free the people from Vaati’s evil clutches is to restore the sword and seal the evil mage’s power once more. However, the knowledge to restore the sword is only kept by the tiny Minish people who live in a land invisible to adult eyes. Enter Link, a young boy who takes on the epic journey that will turn him into a hero of legend… By donning the Minish Cap Link can shrink to the size of the Minish who will help him to defeat Vaati and restore peace to Hyrule.

To coincide with the game’s launch, Nintendo has produced a special Legend of Zelda Limited Edition Pak. This Pak includes a Zelda-themed gold coloured Game Boy Advance SP, plus a copy of The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap. The stylish new Game Boy Advance SP features a ‘Triforce’ motif on the outside and the emblem of the Hyrulian Royal Family on the inside.  

The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap launches on Game Boy Advance in the UK on 12 November 2004 at the estimated retail price of around £30. The Zelda Limited Edition Pak launches in the UK on 12 November 2004 at the estimated retail price of around £89.

To keep up-to-date with the latest and official information on Nintendo visit www.nintendo.co.uk.     

[Some releases and dates from Nintendo for the first quarter of next year.]

444

TalkBack / European Nintendo Releases Q1 2005

« on: October 27, 2004, 12:21:25 AM »

Some releases and dates from Nintendo for the first quarter of next year.

NINTENDO UNVEILS GREAT GAME LINE UP FOR Q1 2005

Nintendo reveals an exciting and eagerly anticipated software line up for early 2005, with games such as Donkey Kong Jungle Beat for Nintendo GameCube and more NES Classics for the Game Boy Advance SP among some of the incredible games on the horizon.  Suddenly those long dark winter nights don’t seem so bad after all…

2005 will see Nintendo GameCube fans everywhere enjoying even more hours of fun and with the many excellent titles it looks set to be another very exciting year for gamers. Check out some of the games coming up:

Nintendo GameCube

The Legend of Zelda Four Swords Adventures          7th January 2005

In this classic action-packed adventure game up to four players can link their Game Boy Advance SPs to a Nintendo GameCube and explore the eight huge worlds of Hyrule. On this mystical journey to save Princess Zelda, players can keep secrets from friends by taking their game play onto their Game Boy Advance screen, or on other occasions all Links must join together on the big screen to solve puzzles together.  

Donkey Kong Jungle Beat                  4th February 2005

Grab your bongos once again as the legendary gorilla returns. The new jungle adventure for Nintendo GameCube allows players to use the DK Bongos to guide Donkey Kong through wild jungle scenery, complete with ravenous enemies and challenging obstacles. This outrageously fun game requires players to bang their bongos to make Donkey Kong run, jump, battle and swing from trees. After the success of Donkey Konga, this is going to be the must-have for fun-loving gamers.  

Mario Power Tennis                     25th February 2005

Join Mario and friends in this explosive tennis tournament like no other. Players can choose from a number of all-time classic characters such as Mario, Luigi, Donkey Kong or Bowser, then take to the courts for a crazy game of tennis. Up to four players can join in and compete against each other at one time, building up more and more skills as they go along. This is a great pick-up-and-play game that players of all ages will love.  

Mario Party 6                        18th March 2005

The next game in the popular Mario Party series takes game play to the next level, with over 80 all-new mini-games, six fresh game boards and even faster movement. Players can clash with friends in Party Mode, taking it in turns to travel around the game boards, competing with friends for coins and star  in a variety of mini-games. In single-player Story Mode, it is up to Mario and chums to settle the disagreement between sun and moon, restoring order to the cosmos.  As a completely new feature to the Mario Party series, this game comes with a Nintendo GameCube Microphone which means mini games now have a whole new level of fun as they can be controlled with the sound of your voice.

Resident Evil 4                        March 2005

This eagerly awaited game for Nintendo GameCube is the latest installment in Capcom’s massively popular franchise.  Players move through the game as Special Agent Leon S. Kennedy who is on a top secret mission.  His investigation into the abduction of the President's daughter has led him to a mysterious location in Europe.  Along with its faster pace, new camera system, new enemies, advanced AI, and interactive environments, this game makes full use of Nintendo GameCube’s technological powers to create truly astounding 3D graphics and effects.   Resident Evil 4’s mix of intense action, fear and intrigue is sure to be a must have game for Q1 2005.  

Game Boy Advance

Whether you own a Game Boy Advance or Game Boy Advance SP, Nintendo has even more treats in store in for all those that love gaming on go.

NES Classics                        7th January 2005

Following on from the success of the NES Classic games which launched in Europe in July this year, 4 more classic, era defining, NES games will be joining the range at the beginning of 2005.  Metroid, Zelda II The Adventure of Link, Dr. Mario and Castlevania will launch for the Game Boy Advance meaning gamers can see the return of the bounty hunter Samus Aran in Metroid plus the legendary Nintendo characters Link and Mario are also back to join the fun. The NES Classics series has something for everyone.  

Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories (Disney/Square Enix)      March 2005

This RPG adventure combines the well-known worlds of Disney and FINAL FANTASY to create a unique and individual gaming experience. The game begins where the original KINGDOM HEARTS left off: Sora, Donald and Goofy continue their exciting adventure in search of Sora’s friend Riku and the king of Disney Castle. Use the innovative card battle system to navigate through the game—but choose your moves wisely, as each unique card is linked to a particular attack or ability. By “stocking” multiple cards, players can amplify their power and unleash powerful combos, cast formidable magic, and create unique battle strategies. With beautiful graphics, an in-depth storyline and an intriguing cast, this is a must-have game for 2005.

This is just a selection of some the great games due out in the first quarter of 2005. In addition, fans of the Game Boy Advance can also look forward to games such as Smashing Drive from ZOO Digital and Advance Guardian Heroes from Ubisoft.  Nintendo GameCube fans can also look forward to a whole host of excellent third party games such as Tak 2: The Staff of Dreams from THQ and Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell Chaos Theory from Ubisoft and Viewtiful Joe 2 from Capcom.  

Watch this space!

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

Nintendo GameCube

 The Legend of Zelda Four Swords (Nintendo)         7th January 2005

Megaman X Command Mission (Capcom)            January 2005

Donkey Kong Jungle Beat (Nintendo)            4th February 2005

Mario Power Tennis (Nintendo)               25th February 2005

Jimmy Neutron Attack of the Twonkies (THQ)         February 2005

Spongebob Squarepants The Movie (THQ)            February 2005

TimeSplitters Future Perfect (EA)               11th March 2005

Mario Party 6 (Nintendo)                  18th March 2005  

Resident Evil 4 (Capcom)                  March 2005

Viewtiful Joe 2 (Capcom)                  March 2005

Fairly Odd Parents: Shadow Showdown (THQ)         March 2005

Tak 2: The Staff of Dreams (THQ)               March 2005

Killer 7 (Capcom)                     Early 2005

Disney’s Winnie the Pooh Rumbly Tumbly Adventure (Ubisoft)   Q1 2005

Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell Chaos Theory (Ubisoft)         Q1 2005

Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon 2 (Ubisoft)            Q1 2005

 Game Boy Advance SP

 NES Classics (Nintendo)                  7th January 2005

- Metroid

- Zelda II The Adventure of Link

- Dr. Mario

- Castlevania

Smashing Drive (ZOO Digital)               21st January 2005

It's Mr Pants (THQ)                     January 2005

Banjo Pilot (THQ)                     February 2005

Jimmy Neutron Attack of the Twonkies (THQ)         February 2005

Spongebob Squarepants The Movie (THQ)            February 2005

Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories (Disney/Square Enix)      March 2005

Bionicle 2 (THQ/LEGO)                  March 2005

Tak 2: The Staff of Dreams (THQ)               March 2005

Advance Guardian Heroes (Ubisoft)               Q1 2005

Disney’s Winnie the Pooh Rumbly Tumbly Adventure (Ubisoft)   Q1 2005  

[Extra special plans for the Pink GBA SP launching on the 29th October in Europe.]

445

TalkBack / UK Pearl Pink GBA SP Marketing

« on: October 25, 2004, 07:05:57 AM »

Extra special plans for the Pink GBA SP launching on the 29th October in Europe.

NINTENDO TARGETS FEMALE GAMERS WITH LAUNCH  OF GAME BOY ADVANCE SP LIMITED PINK EDITION!

25 October 2004 – The gaming industry is evolving and once again Nintendo is leading the way.  There’s a new wave of female gamers entering the market and to embrace this Nintendo is launching the Game Boy Advance SP Limited Pink Edition.

Nintendo is rolling out an extensive PR campaign and celebrity-seeding programme to promote the launch of the new Game Boy Advance SP Limited Pink Edition.  The gaming giant has targeted women’s consumer glossy media for all important peer endorsement, in addition, Nintendo has linked up with cutting edge fashion brand Diesel who has designed and produced an exclusive pink suede belt with two matching cases for carrying the Game Boy Advance SP and games.  The belt and Game Boy Advance SP Limited Pink Edition will be appearing across teen press throughout November.  

The Game Boy Advance SP Limited Pink Edition has also been seeded with influential female celebrities before its UK launch. As celebrity opinion formers have a significant impact on fashion trends for young women, Nintendo is hoping endorsement will help the Game Boy Advance SP Limited Pink Edition to take its place as the essential must have item for girls. A-list celebrities including Kate Moss, Rachel Stevens, Girls Aloud, Katy Hill, Holly Willoughby, Liberty X and Keira Knightly are already well-known fans of the sleek and stylish console.

Dawn Paine Head of Marketing for Nintendo UK said: “Gaming has traditionally been a male dominated market, but now the tides are turning. As the video game industry evolves, more and more women are plugging in and turning onto games. Nintendo prides itself on being an innovator in its field and is dedicated to embracing this change.”

Women are one of the keys to increasing the appeal of interactive software as mass market entertainment, according to a new White Paper recently published by industry body ELSPA (the Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association).  

Examining the role of women, both as producer and consumer, in the dynamic computer and video games sector, Chicks and Joysticks: An Exploration of Women and Gaming highlights the opportunities and challenges facing the industry in appealing to the female gamer. The full white paper can be downloaded at www.elspa.com

The Game Boy Advance SP Limited Pink Edition will be available in the UK from 29 October 2004 at the estimated retail price of £69.  The Game Boy Advance SP is now available in a range of stunning colours, including silver, black, blue, arctic blue, flame red, tribal edition, Classic NES edition and now pink.  

[Find out what promotions are happening for the Nintendo releases during rest of this year.]

446

TalkBack / Nintendo UK Christmas Marketing

« on: October 25, 2004, 06:56:24 AM »

Find out what promotions are happening for the Nintendo releases during rest of this year.

NINTENDO GOES CRACKERS THIS CHRISTMAS WITH  £5 MILLION MARKETING BLITZ!

25 October 2004 – Gamers everywhere are in for a festive treat this year as Nintendo celebrates Christmas with its strongest ever hardware and software line-ups along with some fantastic Nintendo bundles to drive hardware sales. So no matter what your taste, Nintendo has an ideal Christmas present for everyone this year.

Nintendo GameCube: This Christmas, the gaming giant is set to continue the success that Nintendo GameCube has enjoyed throughout 2004 with a 20% lift in year on year sales. A selection of exciting bundles will be launched this Christmas giving more people the excuse they have been longing for to buy a Nintendo GameCube.  

The Mario Kart: Double Dash!! Platinum Pak offers everyone the chance to get their hands on a platinum coloured Nintendo GameCube, platinum controller and a copy of the hugely successful Mario Kart: Double Dash!! The Mario Kart: Double Dash!! Platinum Pak launches in the UK on 5 November and is estimated to retail in the UK at around £79.

You’ll also get the chance to bash your bongos this Christmas too - the Donkey Konga Ultimate Bongo Bundle includes a Nintendo GameCube, controller, a copy of musical rhythm action game Donkey Konga and a set of DK bongo controllers for the estimated UK retail price of £89.  

Donkey Konga launched exclusively for the Nintendo GameCube on 15 October and is supported by a £750,000 marketing drive consisting of PR, TV, advertising and sponsorship as part of its ‘Nintendoism’ campaign.  Promotion for this game includes adverts on both Terrestrial and Satellite TV as well as sponsorship of Takeshi’s Castle on Challenge TV. The game is also being heavily sampled at over 300 retail outlets including Game, Gamestation, HMV, Virgin and Toy R Us.

Launching on 26 November, Metroid Prime 2: Echoes is the eagerly anticipated sequel to last year’s smash hit Metroid Prime. The marketing campaign kicks off with a targeted TV campaign supported heavily by a series of tease and reveal print adverts. PR support for this game will include a launch party as well as a postcard teaser campaign for press.

Nintendo GameCube also has some great third party titles for Christmas including Tony Hawk’s Underground 2 (Activision), GoldenEye: Rogue Agent (EA), Prince of Persia: Warrior Within (Ubisoft) and The URBZ Sims in The City (EA).

Game Boy Advance: The hugely popular Game Boy Advance has cemented its position as the world’s number one hand held console. Sales have trebled (pre price drop month vs. post price drop month) following a recent price drop in the UK to around £69 for the stand alone console.

On 29 October, Nintendo becomes the first publisher to actively target female gamers with the launch of the Game Boy Advance SP Limited Pink Edition. The pocket-sized gadget with the flip top lid and integrated front lit screen has already become the ‘must have’ gadget and now for the first time, Nintendo is encouraging girls to get involved. Already a hit with Kate Moss, Claudia Schiffer and Christina Aguilera, the Game Boy Advance SP Limited Pink Edition is small enough to slip into handbags everywhere and offers girls hours of entertainment - wherever they are! On the bus, on the tube, in the hairdressers – girls will be able to play their Game Boy Advance SP Limited Pink Edition whenever they need entertaining.  

Fans of The Legend of Zelda series are already eagerly awaiting the Zelda Limited Edition Pak, out on November 12th which includes a limited edition gold coloured Game Boy Advance SP and a copy of the game The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap and is estimated to retail in the UK for around £89. Link’s latest adventure is supported by a heavyweight print campaign in children’s media supported by multi-channel TV adverts.  

Mario returns to Game Boy Advance on November 19th in the Mario Limited Edition Pak - giving gamers the opportunity to buy a limited edition Mario themed Game Boy Advance SP complete with a copy of the great new puzzle platform game Mario VS. Donkey Kong.    Game Boy Advance owners are already able to get their hands on two great new Pokémon  titles - Pokémon FireRed and Pokémon LeafGreen. Both games come bundled with the new Game Boy Advance wireless adaptor that enables players to link up and chat, trade or battle without cables for the first time ever. The launch was supported by a £1 million marketing blitz consisting of over a month of TV and cinema advertising as well as print adverts.  In the run up to Christmas, a two week campaign on Satellite and Children’s TV in addition to further cinema activity during the winter’s big movie releases will serve to remind people about the game.  

On top of all of these fantastic first party titles available this Christmas, Game Boy Advance owners will be able to get their hands on fantastic third party games like Need for Speed Underground 2 (EA), Shark Tale (THQ), Finding Nemo: The Continuing Adventures (THQ), Tony Hawk’s Underground 2 (Activision) and WWE Survivor Series (THQ).

If that wasn’t enough Pikmin 2, Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door, Tales of Symphonia on Nintendo GameCube and Super Mario Ball and Final Fantasy I & II: Dawn of Souls on Game Boy Advance are also being launched in the run up to Christmas. These games will be supported by creative print advertising campaigns running several weeks before launch.  

[When does Link's talking bird hat reach European shores?]

447

TalkBack / Legend of Zelda: Minish Cap European Release Date

« on: September 01, 2004, 02:32:34 PM »

When does Link's talking bird hat reach European shores?

LINK SHRINKS HIMSELF INTO A GOLDEN ADVENTURE

1st September 2004.  Link returns to the Game Boy Advance when The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap launches across Europe on 12th November 2004.  Join Link in this brand new adventure as he sets out to reforge a legendary sword and bring peace back to the land of Hyrule.  

Released from the broken power of an ancient mystical sword, Vaati the wind mage is wreaking havoc on the Land of Hyrule. The only way to free the people from Vaati’s evil clutches is to restore the sword and seal the evil mage’s power once more. However, the knowledge to restore the sword is only kept by the tiny Minish people who live in a land unseeable by adult eyes. Enter Link, a young boy who takes on the epic journey that will turn him into a hero of legend…

On his adventure Link comes across an extraordinary hat called the “Minish Cap”. The Minish Cap has amazing powers: it can shrink Link down to minute size and even speak, offering Link invaluable advice. Using the powers of the ever-helpful and friendly Minish Cap, Link can explore two very different worlds: his own native land, and the tiny land of the Minish people. By changing his size between big and small, Link can solve brain-teasing puzzles and negotiate previously inaccessible areas.

Players can look forward to finding and using many new items, such as a suction device used to bring faraway objects close by, and kinstones. Kinstones collected in the game can be fused with other kinstones in order to make unexpected events occur and mysterious items appear.  

With a huge overland world complete with beautiful locations and unforgettable characters, as well as challenging, enemy-filled dungeons to explore, The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap will keep players of all ages glued to their GBA screen for many enjoyable hours.

The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap launches on Game Boy Advance across Europe on 12th November 2004 at the estimated retail price of around 40 Euros.

To keep up-to-date with the latest and official information on Nintendo visit www.nintendo-europe.com.      

[Final Fantasy I&II: Dawn of Souls will reach European GBAs on the 10th December.]

448

TalkBack / Final Fantasy I&II Announced for Europe

« on: September 01, 2004, 02:29:53 PM »

Final Fantasy I&II: Dawn of Souls will reach European GBAs on the 10th December.

RELIVE THE GREATEST ADVENTURE OF ALL TIME!

Final Fantasy I&II: Dawn of Souls coming to Game Boy Advance

01 September 2004 - The role playing genre has evolved phenomenally over the last twenty years and now Nintendo is bringing back the two games that started it all. Final Fantasy I&II: Dawn of Souls will be released on Game Boy Advance across Europe on 10 December 2004 on a single cartridge. The games will feature enhanced graphics and sound, as well as a multitude of new features.  

In Final Fantasy I, gamers must pick a team of four heroes, each an expert in one of six jobs, before setting off to battle the forces of Chaos and save the world. Square Enix has faithfully recreated the original game with the addition of new features such as the ability to save anywhere, so there is no chance of wasting your hard earned experience when you have to get off the train. New enemies and weapons are also on offer and fans of the original are guaranteed to be awestruck by the hugely improved visuals and audio.

One of the most exciting additions to Final Fantasy I is a new dungeon called Soul of Chaos featuring spine tingling bosses from Final Fantasy IV, V and VI, which can only be accessed after completing the game. This dungeon will keep even the most experienced players coming back for more.

Final Fantasy II features four orphans who are trying to save the world from a massive evil empire. Unlike Final Fantasy I and later titles, characters in Final Fantasy II do not level up with experience. Instead weapons and abilities increase in power the more they are used, a revolutionary style and concept which has since been employed in many other video games.

Players will again be impressed by how much this game has been improved for its new Game Boy Advance release, featuring enhanced visuals and changes to the enemies and weapons. Final Fantasy II also includes a new side-quest called Soul of Rebirth, which gives a deeper insight into the character’s stories and will have fans of the original jumping for joy.

Final Fantasy I&II: Dawn of Souls also benefits from an added ‘Bestiary’ mode which allows players to view images and stats of all the enemies that they have encountered in both games.

Final Fantasy I&II: Dawn of Souls will be on sale across Europe from December 10 2004 at an estimated retail price of 40 Euros.

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

[Real bongo drums, tattoos, duck fishing and jelly beans await you.]

449

TalkBack / Nintendo at Game Stars Live!

« on: September 01, 2004, 02:09:17 PM »

Real bongo drums, tattoos, duck fishing and jelly beans await you.

After some technical problems Nintendo Pier opened to visitors of Game Stars Live today. The seaside themed booth is decorated with painted boards dividing it into different areas. The first is the Nintendo Arcade with most of the games in the booth. Tales of Symphonia, Wario Ware, WWF Day of Reckoning, Fifa 2005, Mario Tennis, Lord of the Rings The Third Age and Pikmin 2 are among the GameCube games in this area. On Game Boy Advance the selection includes NES Classic games, Star Wars, Fifa 2005 and Final Fantasy I&II.  

Opposite to this is Paper Mario 2 and Super Mario Ball with Wario Ware thrown in for good measure. The “Haunted Castle” area houses Metroid Prime 2: Echoes and Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap. Often there was quite a wait to see these games.  

Continuing around the booth there is the Fortune Teller’s room where video of Miyamoto explaining the DS features and some upcoming DS and GameCube footage is shown, including the Legend of Zelda video from E3. In the corner opposite to this is a giant helter skelter slide to keep everything in line with the seaside theme.  

The main stage of course features Donkey Konga. The stage is used for demonstrations by a professional bongo drum player and you can play along on real bongo drums. At other times Donkey Konga can be played on the two wide screen TVs. There is also a line of GameCubes set up with Donkey Konga and headphones so everyone can have a turn playing their favourite song. The version of the game is the same as the one used on the Road Trip, with around 10 songs to choose from over 30 listed. Today the Donkey Konga Bongo Battle finals took place on stage, with ten contestants aiming to win the grand prize.  

On either side of the stage are Animal Crossing and Mario Golf. The Animal Crossing fishing stall has surrounded by a moat filled with rubber ducks around the screens and the Mario Golf room has golf balls and clubs in case you feel like trying to get a hole in one.  

For the Pink Edition of the GBA SP there is a pink sweet shop with enough sugar to make you feel sick. Game Boys are sitting on trays of marshmallows, gummy bears and jelly beans. If you’re passing by at the right time you may even find more sugar in the form of pink candy floss or seaside rock with “Nintendo Pier” embedded into it.  

Last of all right by the exit are Game Boy Advances with Pokemon Fire Red and Leaf Green. Again there are lots of consoles here so there shouldn’t be much of a wait if at all. Unless there are lots of parents sitting on the chairs while their children play!

Game Stars Live is the consumer show open to the public at ExCeL running from 1st – 5th September. Also running at the venue is the European Games Network for trade and European Developers’ Forum for developers.  

We’ll have more news and impressions from the show shortly.  

[If you live near Buckinghamshire and available on the 3rd of September, you could be chosen for the filming!]

450

TalkBack / Star in the Donkey Konga TV Ad in the UK!

« on: August 24, 2004, 05:49:56 AM »

If you live near Buckinghamshire and available on the 3rd of September, you could be chosen for the filming!

Nintendo is giving the chance for you to star in the television advertisment for Donkey Konga.  

Filming begins at the last stop of the Donkey Konga Beach Tour at Woburn Safari Park in Buckinghamshire. To apply in advance you need to send an e-mail to donkeykonga@leoburnett.co.uk with the following details:  

A photo
Your age
How close you are to Buckinghamshire
An assurance that you are available over the next two weeks to come to a casting session in London

So if you want to appear in the next Nintendo  TV ad or watch the filming, be there on the 3rd!