Topics

[Are we only going to see Wii kiosks at one location come November? Also, what’s this about Commodore 64 games on Nintendo’s retro service?]

126

TalkBack / RUMORS: Wii Demos GameStop-Exclusive at Launch and C64 Games on Virtual Console?

« on: October 02, 2006, 08:19:24 PM »

Are we only going to see Wii kiosks at one location come November? Also, what’s this about Commodore 64 games on Nintendo’s retro service?

GameStop Corp., the largest gaming specialty store in the United States, recently held their annual sales conference where, according to The Dallas Morning News, a rather peculiar statement was made by CEO Steve Morgan. According to him, Wii demo kiosks will only be available at GameStops at the console’s launch this November.    

Since Nintendo’s aiming at a much broader audience, specifically those outside of the hardcore circle, this seems like an odd choice. PGC contacted Nintendo of America, who declined to comment on the rumor, but I’m thinking we should all take this with a large grain of salt.    

The only reason Nintendo would go with such a narrow field of demo penetration would be if they wanted a very specific experience to accompany the kiosk, such as an employee walking the player through a level, or someone keeping an eye on the station to make sure Wii remotes aren’t stolen.    

Even so, it would be a huge mistake to forego including such massive retail chains like Wal-Mart, Best Buy, and Target, who house the vast majority of the consumers Nintendo’s aiming for. Furthermore, if Nintendo truly wants to break the mold, they’ll have to get Wiis in the hands of as many people as possible, and if demo stations are limited to GameStops, that just isn’t going to happen at launch. I’d bet that this is a misunderstanding between two of the parties involved (Nintendo, GameStop, or the Dallas Morning News).    

There are less than seven weeks left before Wii launches across North America, but we’re still in the dark concerning demo kiosks, pre-orders, and other retail details – keep your browser on Planet GameCube as more on this story is revealed.    

In other Wii news, the Internet has been hissing about like Thundercats lately with the rumor that Commodore 64 titles are making their way to the Virtual Console. It all stems from the latest issue of Nintendo Power, which states that C64 software like Impossible Mission and California Games are coming to the DS, with Wii versions also in the works. The writer also makes the offhand comment that they’d possibly be coming to the Virtual Console as well, and that’s where the rumor stems from.    

Epyx, the developer of the games that publisher System 3 is now releasing onto the DS and Wii in the future, was not directly linked to CBM (Commodore Business Machines), and as such, games released from said developer on Virtual Console, while proving that C64 emulation would exist on the VC, wouldn’t necessarily equate to the kind of support Sega and Hudson are providing.    

At the end of the day, what appeared in Nintendo Power was speculation, and whether or not it’s based on inside information or a mere guess will be revealed as more on the Virtual Console is made public.

127

General Chat / Heroes

« on: October 02, 2006, 04:50:13 PM »

Has anyone else been watching this show on NBC? I'm not one of those "OMG Lost" people, but I couldn't help but get locked into watching. The second episode's almost over, and I already can't wait for next Monday.

I think I'm hooked.

[As a fellow pirate, I'm offended.]

128

TalkBack / REVIEWS: One Piece: Pirates' Carnival

« on: October 01, 2006, 06:02:56 PM »

As a fellow pirate, I'm offended.

One Piece, an anime about a quirky kid in charge of a pirate vessel in search of mystical treasure, has quickly been picking up momentum in the United States since the dubbed version hit Cartoon Network last year, and as such, licensed games are a given. When Pirates’ Carnival showed up on my doorstep, I figured it’d be a simple party game with a few laughs between repetitive mini-games.    

Well, I got one thing right – can you guess which one?    

I can forgive One Piece for its annoying voice-overs and characters – this game is licensed from a children’s cartoon, after all – but I can’t understand what possessed the game’s developers to take the kind of missteps present here. Essentially a Mario Party clone, the game allows up to four players to fight for the tiles that make up a board – each tile contains a card and a cash prize. Certain tiles will have mini-games, where everyone will vie for first place in events like seeing who can dig up the most sand or who can stay on stilts the longest. Can you feel the fun yet?    

Other tiles contain Captain cards, where the person who chose the tile will take on that Captain’s persona, and will defend his base/ship from the other three players. For example, a certain Captain will attack the other three characters, but he’ll exhaust himself after a while, and if someone depletes his health meter, he loses that tile to said player. Once every tile has been chosen, the character with the most cash wins the game, and is allowed to keep his or her cards (which can be seen later in the Extras gallery).    

There’s not much incentive to replay the game (or play it at all, really), since every character is exactly the same. I’m not exaggerating at all – it says that in the manual. The first play-through takes around 25 minutes if you’re taking it easy, and after that, you’ll feel like you’ve had enough. As you might be able to guess, the game supports up to four players, but if you care for your friends at all, you’ll pop something else into your Cube.    

On top of its generic gameplay, One Piece’s controls are extremely floaty, with little on-screen feedback that you’re doing anything right. It’s not like you can do much wrong, though – most mini-games only use the analog stick and the A Button. And, as I mentioned before, since there’s no difference at all between characters, you won’t have to adapt to different avatars.    

One of the only aspects that Pirates’ Carnival gets right is the graphics. Colorful, cel-shaded environments and characters are scattered throughout, and they generally look good, if a little simplistic. There aren’t many effects to be seen here (which I found odd, considering the source material), so don’t expect anything too flashy.    

One Piece: Pirates’ Carnival feels like another “phone-it-in" anime game. The mini-games are boring, the Captain events feel tired and generic, and there’s no replay value to be found. Avoid it and save your money.

Pros:
       

Passable cel-shaded graphics

       Cons:
       

Boring gameplay  

Terrible voice-overs  

No replay value

               Graphics:  7.0
       It’s what we’ve come to expect from a game derived from an animated series: colorful and vibrant, but there’s nothing to write home about.

               Sound:  3.5
       I honestly don’t know how 4Kids sleeps at night employing the voice actors that are used here and in the show. The music is generic, but at least it’s easy to ignore.

               Control:  3.0
       I wasn’t aware it was possible for one-button mini-games to be unintuitive, but here we are…

                      Gameplay:  3.0
       What’s here isn’t necessarily done wrong, it’s just done totally devoid of thought and creativity. I’m not sure what’s worse.

 

       Lastability:  2.0
       Only a masochist would want to play this game for more than 10 minutes. I think that says it all.

 

       Final:  3.0
       Even in the realm of party games, and even in the realm of anime party games, this one title to leave alone at all costs.      

129

TalkBack / FEATURE: The GameCube's Lost Gems

« on: September 25, 2006, 02:59:08 PM »

Use this thread to discuss PGC's latest special on great games that have been passed by on the good ol' GameCube.  

http://www.planetgamecube.com/specialArt.cfm?artid=12003

[Metal Slug 6 completes the seven-game set.]

130

TalkBack / SNK Adds Another Metal Slug to Wii Collection

« on: September 22, 2006, 08:24:01 AM »

Metal Slug 6 completes the seven-game set.

SNK Adds Metal Slug 6 to Metal Slug Anthology To Complete Collection   Seven Great Metal Slug Games, One Low Price    

Wall, New Jersey Sep 22, 2006 SNK PLAYMORE USA CORPORATION, the US   publishing arm of the SNK PLAYMORE CORPORATION, announced today that   they will add the latest game in the series, METAL SLUG 6, to METAL SLUG   ANTHOLOGY for the Wii(tm) and the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system.    

METAL SLUG ANTHOLOGY will now feature seven great METAL SLUG titles.   Included in the collection will be METAL SLUG, METAL SLUG 2, METAL SLUG   X, METAL SLUG 3, METAL SLUG 4, METAL SLUG 5, and METAL SLUG 6.    

METAL SLUG 6 was released in the arcades earlier this year and expands   the cast of playable characters by two. In addition to the METAL SLUG   regulars – Marco Rossi, Tarma Roving, Eri Kasamoto, and Fio Germi, METAL   SLUG 6 includes Ralf Jones and Clark Steel of IKARI WARRIORS. The METAL   SLUG 6 storyline returns to the Rebel-Martian alliance featured in Metal   Slugs 2, X, and 3, but now players have to team up with the Rebels and   Martians to defeat an even greater threat.    

METAL SLUG ANTHOLOGY will ship in November 2006.

131

NWR Forums Discord / Stan and I are Defecting from PGC

« on: September 19, 2006, 08:01:40 PM »

Because there is not nearly enough Pirate Action on Radio Free Nintendo (I don't care how you church it up, Burchfield - that's the Sin Inn and you know it), Stan and I are quitting Planet GameCube. It's the truth, for real, even if I haven't told him yet. Anyway, here's why: we found this awesome site called God's Favorite Blog (http://godsfavoriteblog.blogspot.com) There's this great podcast, too, called God's Favorite Podcast (I came up with the name, ahem). So check out our shenanigans, because I'm allowed to make shameless plugs as often as I please.      

[Phantom War is now available at your local retailer.]

132

TalkBack / MechAssault Comes to DS

« on: September 13, 2006, 04:35:49 PM »

Phantom War is now available at your local retailer.

Majesco's 'MechAssault: Phantom War' Assaults the Nintendo DS    

Popular 'Mech Series Goes Handheld With Touch Screen Functionality    

  EDISON, N.J., Sept. 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Majesco Entertainment   Company (Nasdaq: COOL - News), an innovative provider of digital   entertainment products and content, today announced that MechAssault®:   Phantom War has shipped to retail. The very first handheld version of the   critically acclaimed action series that's sold more than 1.5 million units,   MechAssault: Phantom War offers a new level of control for the franchise by   integrating Nintendo DS Touch Screen mechanics.   "Capturing the look and feel of this extraordinary franchise for the   handheld audience was an impressive technical achievement," said Ken Gold,   vice president of Marketing, Majesco Entertainment. "We're very proud the   Backbone team was able to translate this series into a compelling DS   experience that introduces new characters, planets, missions and Touch   Screen gameplay, all within the familiar 'Mech universe. We think fans of   the series will be very pleased with the result."    

Developed by Backbone Entertainment, a division of Foundation 9   Entertainment, MechAssault: Phantom War is a third-person futuristic shooter   where players assume the role of a MechWarrior, an elite fighter trained to   control the ultimate war machine of the 32nd century...the BattleMech.   Gamers experience fast-action, 3D 'Mech combat on the top screen, while the   lower Touch Screen positions them inside the cockpit at the controls.    

      Additional feature highlights include:       * Use the Touch Screen to sneak into enemy territory, hijack enemy   'Mechs         and wield the most secret weapon in the Inner Sphere;       * More than 20 types of vehicles, including 'Mechs, Tanks, Turrets and         BattleArmor;       * Wireless multiplayer combat for up to four players simultaneously;       * 24 single player campaigns and five exciting multiplayer game types;       * Wreak havoc on the enemy and environment with an arsenal of powerful,         fully upgradeable weapons;    

Joining the previously released Age of Empires®: The Age of Kings®,   MechAssault: Phantom War is the second Microsoft property Majesco has   published for the Nintendo DS audience and is now available for a suggested   retail price of $29.99. Included free inside every game is a coupon worth   25% off the MechAssault: Phantom War Battleforce Set available September 24   from WizKids Games.

[The popular anime series is up for a handheld adaptation.]

133

TalkBack / Fullmetal Alchemist Comes to DS

« on: September 12, 2006, 01:02:58 PM »

The popular anime series is up for a handheld adaptation.

Destineer Announces New Anime Title 'Fullmetal Alchemist(TM): Dual Sympathy'   for Nintendo DS      

  MINNEAPOLIS, September 12 /CNW/ - One of the top-rated anime programs on   Adult Swim comes to the Nintendo DS(TM) for the first time as Destineer   today announced Fullmetal Alchemist(TM): Dual Sympathy. As part of the   popular Fullmetal Alchemist universe which includes a hit television   program, popular DVD series and a recently released movie, Destineer's   Fullmetal Alchemist: Dual Sympathy game is slated for release this fall.    

  "With Fullmetal Alchemist, our goal is to deliver a thrilling interactive   experience that is authentic to the TV show by incorporating the character   voices and cinematic scenes, as well the uniquely compelling use of   alchemy," said Paul Rinde, Chief Executive Officer of Destineer. "There is   certainly a groundswell of anticipation already brewing and we are excited   to be kicking off the first in a series of Fullmetal Alchemist games with a   wonderfully creative Nintendo DS offering."    

Based on one of the hottest anime series ever introduced, Fullmetal   Alchemist: Dual Sympathy is a side-scrolling action/adventure game that puts   players in the role of Edward Elric, the Fullmetal Alchemist on a quest to   defeat the evil Homunculi and acquire the fabled Philosopher's Stone.    

Fullmetal Alchemist: Dual Sympathy integrates an innovative twist via the   use of alchemy - which is the ability to transform objects from one form   into another - and its strategic impact on the game. Whether repelling   defenders, removing obstacles or engaged in battle, all six characters have   unique and devastating alchemy attacks, which range in scope from bolts of   fire and stone spikes, to monstrous cannons and gigantic fists. By holding   down the alchemy button on the Nintendo DS touch screen, players can   transform their initial alchemy creation into a mega-weapon of tremendous   proportions and impact.    

Covering the entire Fullmetal Alchemist storyline, Fullmetal Alchemist: Dual   Sympathy has two modes of play: Story Mode, which follows the saga of the   Elric brothers and includes cinematics and battle sequences from the TV   series; and Character Mode which allows players to assume the role of one of   the six characters. Upon finishing the game with a particular character,   players are rewarded with a special character cinematic from the TV show.    

Additional exciting features of Fullmetal Alchemist: Dual Sympathy include:    

  Ability to play as one of six characters: Edward or Alphonse Elric,   Roy Mustang, Alex Louis Armstrong, Izumi or Scar; as well as acquire the   special moves of the other characters;    

    --  Voice-over from the stars of the Cartoon Network series;    

    --  A host of unlock-able content, including talking character alarm   clocks, character galleries, video and sound libraries, and more;    

    --  More than 10 touch screen mini-games, including   "Whack-A-Homunculus"   and "Fullmetal vs. Flame" all add exciting new challenges between battles.    

    Developed by Bandai, Destineer's Fullmetal Alchemist: Dual Sympathy is   scheduled to ship this fall. More information can be found online at   www.fullmetal-alchemistgame.com.

[In this WarioWare-esque title, you'll prepare dishes under the supervision of your wise elder.]

134

TalkBack / Cooking Mama Ships Today

« on: September 12, 2006, 12:55:12 PM »

In this WarioWare-esque title, you'll prepare dishes under the supervision of your wise elder.

MAJESCO'S AWARD-WINNING  'COOKING MAMA'    

NOW AVAILABLE FOR NINTENDO DS(tm)      

Have Fun While Learning How to Cook    

   

EDISON, NJ, September 12, 2006 - Hungry gamers everywhere are now   satiated as Majesco Entertainment Company (NASDAQ: COOL), an innovative   provider of digital entertainment products and content, ships Cooking   Mama for the Nintendo DS(tm).  Developed by Taito and rated 'E' for   Everyone, Majesco's new Cooking Mama video game is now available at   retailers nationwide for a suggested retail price of $19.99.      

   

Already acclaimed by video game pundits, Cooking Mama has received   several industry honors including "Most Innovative DS Design of E3   2006," from leading video game website IGN; and GameDaily's "Nod Award"   which called Cooking Mama "a fun DS game that uses the stylus to near   perfection."  In addition, Nintendo will be featuring a Cooking Mama   playable demo this November in approximately 10,000 retail kiosks at   GameStop, EB Games, Target, Game Crazy, Fry's, Best Buy, Toys 'R Us,   Circuit City and Wal-Mart.    

   

"With its innovative gameplay and universal theme, Cooking Mama will   appeal to gamers and non-gamers of any age or gender," said Ken Gold,   vice president of Marketing, Majesco Entertainment.  "We believe this   unique concept coupled with an attractive $19.99 price point is a recipe   for success."    

   

In Majesco's Cooking Mama, players assume the role of an up-and-coming   chef who must earn Mama's approval in the kitchen. Using the stylus as a   master kitchen tool, players will chop, slice, grate, peel, pan fry,   knead and much more as they prepare, cook and present meals to Mama for   evaluation. In all, Cooking Mama includes more than 200 individual Touch   Screen mini-games across 76 real recipes. Players have the added ability   to share recipes with friends via the DS wireless link.  

[Check out the Blue Bomber's latest game on the DS.]

135

TalkBack / Mega Man ZX Released

« on: September 12, 2006, 12:51:37 PM »

Check out the Blue Bomber's latest game on the DS.

CAPCOM(r) RELEASES MEGA MAN(r) ZX FOR THE NINTENDO DS*    

   

  -New Action Game Joins Blue Bomber Franchise With Fresh Gameplay Twists,   New Characters and More-    

   

SUNNYVALE, Calif. * Sept. 12, 2006 - A world of transformations awaits   as Capcom today released Mega Man(r) ZX for the Nintendo DS*, an   original new action game that joins the Mega Man universe.  A dynamic   Biometal system plays the central role, offering players the ability to   transform into different Model types, each with their own unique   abilities and advantages.  Utilizing new Models presents a variety of   gameplay experiences, allowing players access to different powers and   the ability to expand the game field, opening new and hidden areas for   exploration.  In addition, there is an option to play as either a male   character or, for the first time ever in the Mega Man series, a female   main character.  Mega Man ZX is now available at retailers across North   America and is rated "E" for everyone by the ESRB (Entertainment   Software Rating Board).    

   

In Mega Man ZX, hundreds of years have passed since the battles between   humans and Reploids (robots).  After fierce wars between the two sides,   peace was finally restored and the two groups were able to establish   various cooperative nations within the "Inner" area of the universe.   However, danger zones remained in the undeveloped "Outer" section where   independently evolved robots called "Mavericks" began wreaking havoc.  A   group called the Serpent Company scours the Outer universe to provide   energy created from otherwise unattainable items to the Inner population   and also serves to protect these peaceful nations from Maverick attacks   over the years.  On an excursion to the Outer region, they discover   relics of ancient technologies in the ruins.  These relics, called   Biometals, are living, conscious materials, with records of information   and weapon data from history housed within.      

   

Players assume the role of either a human male character named Vent or   his female counterpart, Aile, who are employees of the Girouette   Express, a courier service that takes jobs transporting anything to   anywhere.  On a job accompanying their boss, Girouette, to transport a   package containing Model X and Model Z Biometals, they are attacked by a   mysterious group of Mavericks who seeks to take the material for   themselves.  During the scuffle, the Model X Biometal is absorbed into   the main character, causing a transformation into Model X form while the   Model Z Biometal fuses with Girouette.  Facing innumerable enemies,   Girouette lends his newfound power to his employee and the two   substances combine to form Model ZX.  With powerful abilities at their   disposal, they must discover who the menacing enemies are and what they   are ultimately after.    

   

In Mega Man ZX, players traverse an open map structure as they face   various foes in order to acquire Biometals.  The crystallized Biometal   data collects at the weak points of bosses, so only by defeating them   will players acquire the necessary substances to transform into   different Models.  The specific powers of each type will help access   previously inaccessible areas and progress through the game.  Each Model   type offers distinct abilities including the ability to break walls,   burn enemies with fire, dash through water and more.      

Mega Man ZX includes the following features:    

*         Two playable characters - play as either a male character   named Vent, or as a female named Aile    

o        This is the first time ever in the Mega Man series where a   female is the main playable character    

o        Vent is bigger and more powerful while Aile is smaller and more   agile    

o        Each character has their own specific cut scenes    

*         Biometal is the key - in order to gain the best transformation   possible, strategically attack bosses without damaging its Biometals,   otherwise its effects may become downgraded and must be repaired to   regain its full potential    

*         Transformations offer a range of different abilities    

*   In human form, speak with townspeople and perform basic   movements like walking and jumping   *   Model X form features a long range buster shot, basic actions,   dashing and wall kicks   *   Model ZX form also includes short range attacks in addition to   the Model X abilities   *   Biometal allows transformation into additional Model X types   with distinct abilities - Model HX, Model LX and more    

*         Expanding environment - unlock additional areas of the map by   using different Model X forms' powers    

*         Real time info system - engages both screens of the DS system    

*   Not only do different Model X types offer powerful abilities for   players as they battle on the top screen's "real world," they can also   trigger helpful Cyber Elves that display useful information on the   bottom "Biometal screen" counterpart utilizing special abilities of   Biometals    

*   While the main action happens on top, beneficial data ranging   from an enemy's weak point, locations of hidden items and more are   displayed on the bottom   *   The type of data displayed is different with each Model type    

*         Overdrive invoke system - utilizing the Biometal Gauge, power   up for a limited time to unleash devastating attacks; however once   depleted, players revert to human form    

*         Regenerating bosses - based on certain conditions, a boss that   had been defeated will reappear again, allowing multiple opportunities   to gain items from the repeated battles    

*         Missions and Quests- progress the story by completing main   missions while optional quests scattered throughout the map offer   valuable information and items

[There are too many Star Wars jokes, so just choose your favorite.]

136

TalkBack / Lego Star Wars II Ships Today

« on: September 12, 2006, 11:30:38 AM »

There are too many Star Wars jokes, so just choose your favorite.

Darth Vader in a Bikini? LucasArts and TT Games Ship LEGO(R) Star Wars(R) II: The Original Trilogy, One of the Most Anticipated Family Entertainment Titles of 2006    

   Build and battle your way through a tongue-in-cheek Star Wars galaxy in LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy. (Photo: Business Wire)  SAN FRANCISCO --(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 12, 2006--LucasArts and TT Games today announced that it has shipped its hotly anticipated videogame, LEGO(R) Star Wars(R) II: The Original Trilogy, to retailers worldwide. Presale data, retailers and wide-ranging rave media reviews of the game all point to its broad appeal.    

LEGO Star Wars II combines the fun and endless customization of LEGO play with a hilarious, tongue-in-cheek take on the epic story, characters and action from the classic Star Wars: Episodes IV, V and VI films. In order to provide immediate fun and accessibility for all families, LEGO Star Wars II is available on eight platforms, including the PlayStation(R) 2 computer entertainment system, Xbox 360 and Xbox(R) video game systems from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube(TM), Nintendo DS(TM), Nintendo Game Boy(R) Advance, PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable system) and Windows.    

Families Can Mix and Match Their Favorite Star Wars Heroes    

One of LEGO Star Wars II's most amusing new features is the Character Customizer. More than 60 playable characters, and their assorted heads, torsos, midsections and legs, can be unlocked throughout the course of the game. These parts can then be mixed and matched like actual LEGO minifigures to create the likes of Darth Threepio, Stormbacca or Ewok Organa -- there are literally millions of possibilities!    

Based on presale information from major retailers, LucasArts expects extremely high consumer anticipation for LEGO Star Wars II's arrival on store shelves and has created special programs at retailers across the country, including Toys "R" Us, Wal-Mart, Target, Best Buy, GameStop and Circuit City.    

"LEGO Star Wars II offers fans a brand new way to experience the classic trilogy and is a terrific addition to the largest selection of Star Wars toys and games already available at Toys "R" Us stores nationwide," said Ron Boire, President, Toys "R" Us, U.S. "The first LEGO Star Wars was a fan favorite, and we believe families will be excited by the chance to step into the roles of their favorite, original Star Wars characters in LEGO Star Wars II. To celebrate the launch, Toys "R" Us will offer an exclusive promotion for customers who purchase LEGO Star Wars II during the week of the game's release."    

LEGO Star Wars II Has Wide-Ranging Appeal That Showcases the Breadth of Family-Gaming Fun Available Today    

"Star Wars is a cultural icon that is adored by fans of all ages and demographics, and as the industry evolves, games like LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy help us expand beyond the traditional hardcore gaming audience," said Jeff Bell, Corporate Vice President of Global Marketing, Interactive Entertainment Business, Microsoft. "As the first of many family-oriented titles for Xbox 360, LEGO Star Wars II leads the charge in broadening the range of consumers who will enjoy all of the system's high-definition, next-generation content."    

Also shipping today are the individual two-disc DVD sets of the original Star Wars film trilogy, Episode IV A New Hope, Episode V The Empire Strikes Back(TM) and Episode VI Return of the Jedi(TM).    

More Information About LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy    

With a unique tongue-in-cheek take on the original trilogy, LEGO Star Wars II lets gamers build and battle their way through their favorite film moments. From Darth Vader's pursuit of Princess Leia aboard her Blockade Runner to Luke's final confrontation with Emperor Palpatine, the game includes even more of the family-friendly LEGO action, puzzles and humor that helped the original LEGO Star Wars sell over 2.5 million copies worldwide (according to NPD Funworld).    

In LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy, for the first time ever, characters can get in and out of vehicles, as well as ride creatures. Because of its LEGO brick style, players also can mix and match the body parts of more than 50 playable characters to create one of millions of possible LEGO Star Wars heroes. And on PlayStation 2, Xbox and Windows platforms, a game save from the first LEGO Star Wars can unlock another 50-plus additional characters for Free Play mode; that's more than 100 total characters! Other exciting additions include free-roaming vehicle levels, the ability to switch ships at will in Free Play mode, cool new character-specific attacks and maneuvers, playable mini-kit vehicles, an adaptive difficulty option and more.    

LEGO Star Wars II was developed by Traveller's Tales for the Xbox 360 and Xbox video game systems from Microsoft, PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, PSP system, Nintendo GameCube and Windows, and by Amaze Entertainment for Nintendo DS and Nintendo Game Boy Advance.

[Another 3-Staffer Extravaganza!]

137

TalkBack / Radio Free Nintendo - Episode 16

« on: September 06, 2006, 10:46:09 AM »

Another 3-Staffer Extravaganza!

I want a Jet Black DS so that I can sell it for $50,000 used in Japan.    

   

Are you ready for another Stan-Karl Power Hour? Well too bad, sucker, 'cause this one's closer to a half hour. Also, it's not limited to Stan and myself - Steven "WindyMan" Rodriguez makes his podcast debut this week. How did he do? Well, there's good and there's bad and there's his performance. I'm not going to say much more than that... because it pains me to recall how terrible it was.    

Episode 16: Talkin' 'Bout My bit Generations    

AAC Format    

  MP3 Format    

You can also listen to the podcast on Odeo.    

powered by ODEO    

This week on Radio Free Nintendo (sorry, Nintendo Pirate Radio is taking the week off - I know, I know), Stan, Steven, and I talk about how the Jet Black DS Lite is selling like gangbusters in Japan, and briefly speculate on how it'll do when it arrives in the States. The main course has to do with bit Generations, however. Windy picked up a copy online recently, and he's been enamored with it ever since. Check out why this collection of simple-yet-complex GBA games will own your soul (and $40).    

Finally, on a more somber note, we say goodbye to Steve Irwin, also known as The Crocodile Hunter, who died in a tragic accident this past weekend. We're all going to miss his hijinks, and our condolences to his fans, his family, and Aussies everywhere.    

If you've got any comments on the show or have a question you'd like to hear answered on-air, send it to    

   

Also feel free to bring yourself into the Talkback forum to discuss this week's topics.

[If lead designer Kazuma Kaneko has anything to say about it, there's a good possibility.]

138

TalkBack / Shin Megami Tensei Coming to Wii?

« on: September 01, 2006, 03:14:53 PM »

If lead designer Kazuma Kaneko has anything to say about it, there's a good possibility.

Without a doubt, the Shin Megami Tensei series is one of the strangest RPG franchises out there, where it's not uncommon at all for occult and demonic manifestations to show up for a cup of tea. And while it's been featured primarily on the PS2 lately, that doesn't mean that Wii gamers will be out of luck if they're looking to get their weird on.    

In a recent interview with Hardcore Gamer Monthly, the games' lead designer, Kazuma Kaneko talked all about the latest entry, Devil Summoner. When the subject of future entries came up, the following dialogue took place:    

 HGM: So with Devil Summoner coming out this year and   Persona 3 on the way, what's next for the MegaTen series?    

  Kaneko: Probably the next Devil Summoner title.    

  HGM: What systems can fans expect to see MegaTen games on   in the future?    

  Kaneko: Probably the PS3 and Wii. I would really love to bring   MegaTen to Wii.    

  HGM: What would a Wii MegaTen game be like?    

  Kaneko: Well, if you play Nocturne or Digital Devil   Saga, they're typical modern RPGs. You see your characters act from   a third-person view. But as you and your readers probably know, the   original MegaTen games used a completely different first-person   viewpoint. I would love to go back to basics with MegaTen on the   Wii and bring back the first-person perspective, while using the   controller to let players experience their environments directly.    

That's straight from the horse's mouth, folks. Time will tell if anything will come out of it, so keep your browsers tuned to PGC for the latest happenings in this story.

[With the Wii almost here, we’ve got to know: is the Wiimote actually better than a regular controller?]

139

TalkBack / EDITORIALS: Controller Conundrum

« on: August 30, 2006, 07:54:55 PM »

With the Wii almost here, we’ve got to know: is the Wiimote actually better than a regular controller?

In a recent interview with Nintendo Dream, Shigeru Miyamoto revealed that GameCube games may be getting facelifts for the Wii. While the question of how extensive the improvements would be still hasn’t been answered, it brings up an interesting question: is the Wii remote so powerful an asset that its mere inclusion can drastically improve a game?    

This has already been brought up with a more high-profile game that’s actually launching with the Wii. With Twilight Princess, the Nintendo faithful seem to be split up into two camps: those who want to play it with a GameCube controller and those willing to take the plunge with the remote. I haven’t played it with either, so I’m not qualified to comment on either method’s positives or negatives, but the general consensus has become pretty vocal about wanting the option to play both on the same disk, just in case. Having played TP on both the GameCube in 2005 and on the Wii in 2006, PGC Director Jonathan Metts had this to say:    

“Zelda on GameCube felt like a very direct sequel to Ocarina of Time or Wind Waker with different graphics.  Due to the brevity of the demo, it was hard to tell how the game would set itself apart in terms of gameplay.  Zelda on Wii feels dramatically different for the series, but at least in the E3 demo, not necessarily better."    

For more on this issue, read Evan Burchfield's open letter to Nintendo.    

It’s that insecurity that makes the whole transition somewhat nervous for yours truly. Nintendo’s taking a big gamble on the Wii, and if the remote can’t “wow" someone with their first impression, trouble is afoot. It all boils down to whether Twilight Princess plays better on the GameCube, or on its big-brother Wii.    

This question ties into whether or not the controller can play a “normal game" more intuitively than its predecessor. At this point, it’s hard to say. While RTS, hack-and-slashes, and FPS titles seem custom-fit for Nintendo’s new method of control, would a game like Super Smash Bros. really benefit from it? Probably not. It mostly has to do with how clumsy people are in real life, and that the exact movement readily available by pushing buttons isn’t easily replicated by actual movement.    

This obviously won’t be a problem with games belonging to the Touch Generation brand or something like Trauma Center, where the objective is based around responding your hand’s movement, and with WarioWare, it’s a match made in heaven. Will Prince of Persia Wii be better than Two Thrones, though? Time will tell, and that, more than anything else, is what’s bothering me.    

It sure wasn’t this stressful last time. When the analog stick debuted on the N64, it ushered in a new age of 3D manipulation, but did anyone decide to switch up the control scheme and repackage their game as new? Did anyone see analog control as so great an innovation that it fundamentally changed the experience, and acted upon it immediately?    

The truth of the matter was, it was a great addition to the controller, and it succeeded the D-Pad as the predominant method to play games. It didn’t annihilate it, however - we still see the D-Pad on every major gamepad - and in truth, I actually prefer the latter for certain genres (chiefly fighting games).    

The Wii remote is different, though. Whereas the D-Pad-to-analog transition just put your thumb in a different spot and made it rotate instead of jump, the Wii is a kinetic force - it removes another boundary between you and the digital world, and will fundamentally change the experience. We just don’t know if that’s for the better yet.    

So will these "enhanced titles" be good games? Probably. Better than the first ones? Maybe. Better specifically because of the control scheme?    

As much as I hate to say it, time will have to tell.

[For this week's second podcast, Stan and Karl join the venerable Mike Sklens to talk about the gaming apocalypse.]

140

TalkBack / Radio Free Nintendo - Episode 15

« on: August 30, 2006, 05:42:43 PM »

For this week's second podcast, Stan and Karl join the venerable Mike Sklens to talk about the gaming apocalypse.

ET: Extra Terrible    

   

It's been a long-held theory that Nintendo Pirate Radio and Radio Free Nintendo   can't get along. The fiery-eyed tension of the episode Evan and I did a couple   weeks ago is proof of this, so I was reluctant to try a merger again. However, when   Mike "StrikerObi" Sklens returned from his recent time off, offering up copious   amounts of alcohol, Stan and I opened up our arms... to his liquor cabinet. What   follows is...    

Episode 15: Come Ride My Dark Horseman    

AAC Format    

MP3 Format    

You can also listen to the podcast on Odeo.    

powered by ODEO    

Get your mind out of the gutter! Ever since the video game crash of the mid-  eighties, gamers have been predicting when the sequel will arrive. With the next   generation of consoles spurring these theories on even further, we thought it'd be   a  good idea to address the most popular ones. Come listen as Stan, Mike and I   discuss the Four Horsemen of the Gaming Apocalypse.    

Also discussed tonight are the various reasons I'm not qualified to work here: I   didn't like the original Zelda, I use strategy guides (even for easy games!), and I'm   a total shill for corporations. So, tell me why I should be fired at our email address.   And if you've got something nice to say, well, what podcast were you listening to?    

   

Also, bring your lazy asses into the Talkback section. Otherwise, I'm gonna kill a   puppy, and it'll be all your fault.

[Stan and Karl return to talk about the cinematic aspects of the gaming industry.]

141

TalkBack / Radio Free Nintendo - Episode 14

« on: August 28, 2006, 06:55:19 PM »

Stan and Karl return to talk about the cinematic aspects of the gaming industry.

Akira Toriyama rules!    

   

Unfortunately, technical issues prevented us from getting this podcast out on time last week, but you're in for a treat: this week will have two episodes. Tonight, Stan roundhouse kicks Evan off the mic to claim the Pirate Throne. I kept telling him that, much like Highlander, only ONE can hold that spot (and it's already taken by yours truly), but he simply laughed that off and proceeded to choke me... through my own screen!. Afterwards, I tried to keep up with a very sore throat.    

Episode 14: Arthouse Pirate Theater 3000    

AAC Format    

MP3 Format    

You can also listen to the podcast on Odeo.    

powered by ODEO    

  This week, Stan and I discuss the various artistic merits of the game industry, from character art to animation, and there's even some commentary on voice acting. Also discussed (in a totally off-topic manner), is my lack of skills in Resident Evil 4 when fighting Regenerators and why Dragon Ball Z is an important moment in social history.    

If you're like me, you love to be heard via podcast nerds over the internet, so if you've got any comments on why Stan and I need to be arrested (we're already wanted in several states, including Burchfield's own Oregon), send it to our email address. You may end up on-air!    

   

If you just want to congratulate me for once again gracing your speakers, though, feel free to hit the Talkback thread. I might just acknowledge you!

142

NWR Forums Discord / I Got Drunk on Lemonade and Reviewed Penny Arcade

« on: August 27, 2006, 02:05:11 PM »

No, seriously.

homepage.mac.com/karlcastaneda/comiclife

[If you answered "yes," you might find yourself on a Spike TV reality show.]

143

TalkBack / Will You Answer the Call?

« on: August 21, 2006, 03:31:56 PM »

If you answered "yes," you might find yourself on a Spike TV reality show.

ACTIVISION, SPIKE TV AND BEST BUY TEAM UP FOR  “GAME HEAD: CALL OF DUTY ® 3 : CHALLENGE“  

 Casting Call for Gamers to Battle it Out Boot Camp Style On  Reality Television Show  

 SANTA MONICA – August 21, 2006 – Gamers, get ready for your close-up!   Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) is teaming up with Spike TV and Best Buy to deliver the “ Game Head Call of Duty® 3 : Challenge," a boot camp-style competition of survival and gaming that will telecast as a television special on Spike TV’s “Game Head" on November 10, 2006 timed to the fall release of the   Call of Duty 3 video game.   Activision is hosting an online casting call at www.gamespot.com to find 16 recruits with personality, perseverance and gaming skills to compete for a Grand Prize package that includes VIP access to Spike TV’s “Video Game Awards," a Home Entertainment system from Best Buy and a trip for two to Normandy, France .    

 Gamers can apply by creating a personal movie up to five minutes in length that explains why they should be chosen and submit their pitch to the “ Game Head: Call of Duty 3 : Challenge" at http://www.gamespot.com/contests/spiketvcod3/ .    Activision will select 16 individuals to participate in the challenge.   All videos and applications must be received by 11:59 pm/PDT on September 4, 2006 to be considered.  

 Finalists will be flown to a top secret military location where they will hit the virtual battlefields in Call of Duty 3 and complete real-life boot camp challenges.   The intense competition will be filmed on location from September 20 - 22, 2006 for the television event that will telecast on Spike TV.   Additionally, the winner will be awarded a Grand Prize package.    

 “The Game Head Call of Duty 3: Challenge combines the in-your-face action that the best-selling video game franchise is known for with the intense physical and mental challenges associated with a military boot camp," said Will Kassoy, senior vice president, global brand management, Activision, Inc.   “The result will be a reality TV event that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. "  

 “Game Head covers the biggest titles released in the video games industry today," says Jaimee Kosanke, Producer of Spike TV’s “Game Head."   “The action-packed first-person play of Call of Duty 3: Challenge aims directly at Spike’s mantra of ‘Get More Action.’ With this special, we’ll take the viewers off the couch and drop them right into the warzone - Spike style."    

 For complete registration information, along with rules and regulations, go to www.gamespot.com .    

 Spike TV’s “Game Head" is a weekly half-hour series dedicated to everything that is happening in the world of video games. From the latest reviews, cheat codes, rumor reports, the hottest game of the week and more, “Game Head" gives viewers an inside look into the hard core culture of video games.    

 Call of Duty 3 is scheduled for release this fall for the Xbox 360™ and Xbox® video game and entertainment systems from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and the upcoming Wii™ from Nintendo.   The title is the follow up to Call of Duty 2 , which was the No. 1 Xbox 360 launch title, and as of Aug. 7, remains the No. 1 played Xbox 360 multiplayer title on Xbox Live ® online entertainment network based on a count of worldwide unique users (courtesy Microsoft). Call of Duty 3 features an epic and cinematic single player mode and multiplayer action for up to 24 players.   The title is not yet rated by the ESRB.

[Over the Hedge and a new Spider-Man are heading to Nintendo systems.]

144

TalkBack / Activision Reveals Fall Handheld Line-Up

« on: August 21, 2006, 03:26:12 PM »

Over the Hedge and a new Spider-Man are heading to Nintendo systems.

ACTIVISION REVEALS DIVERSE FALL HANDHELD LINEUP

    Santa Monica, CA – August 21, 2006 – Activision, Inc. is delivering big-time fun to the palm of gamers’ hands this fall with a diverse line-up of titles for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Nintendo DS™ and Game Boy® Advance platforms.   Players will experience the untamed West in GUN™ Showdown , gear up for high jinx and hilarity in Over the Hedge™: Hammy Goes Nuts! , swing into action in Marvel’s Spider-Man™: Battle for New York , and relive classic console gaming in Activision® Hits Remixed , the ultimate compilation of Atari 2600 games.

    “Today, handheld gaming is more popular than ever before and our fall line-up is reflective of gamers’ unique tastes and interests," said Will Kassoy, senior vice president of global brand management.  “Whether they want to experience new adventures with popular Super Hero and movie characters or relive their earliest memories of gaming, we’re delivering top quality entertainment experiences."

    In Gun Showdown for the PSP system, players shoot, knife and dynamite their way through a free-roaming action adventure set against the backdrop of the old West.  As a gunslinger working both sides of the law, gamers will dole out vengeance and showdown against corrupt lawmen, a murderous preacher, a renegade army psychopath, and merciless outlaws.  The handheld experience includes new wireless multiplayer and quick-play modes, PSP system exclusive missions, and gameplay features.  Gun Showdown is rated “M" (“Mature" – Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Sexual Themes, Strong Language and Use of Alcohol) by the ESRB.

    Spider-Man: Battle for New York allows players to take on the role of their favorite Marvel Super Hero, Spider-Man, and one of his famed nemeses, Green Goblin, in an original storyline which builds upon their legendary comic book rivalry.  For the first time in a handheld Spider-Man game, Nintendo DS and Game Boy Advance players can personalize their experiences by choosing what abilities and powers to upgrade and when, such as Spider-Man’s web maneuvers or Green Goblin’s fire attacks, as they progress through the game.  Playing as both good and evil, gamers will experience levels packed with frenzied action, in-depth combat and a host of unique super moves as they embark on the ultimate quest to save New York City from almost certain disaster.  Spider-Man: Battle for New York is rated “E10+" (“Everyone 10+" - Cartoon Violence) by the ESRB.
    Over the Hedge™: Hammy Goes Nuts! is an all-new adventure based on the woodland creatures from DreamWorks Animation’s hit film “Over the Hedge." Fan favorite Hammy the squirrel leads RJ the raccoon, Verne the turtle and all-new forest friends on another daring trip into the ‘burbs. When Hammy’s beloved cable TV goes out, his buddies have to scramble through the neighborhood to restore the signal—and Hammy’s happiness.  Over the Hedge: Hammy Goes Nuts! for the Nintendo DS is rated “E" (“Everyone" – Comic Mischief) by the ESRB, and the GBA version is rated “E" (“Everyone") by the ESRB. The PSP version is not yet rated.

    Activision Hits Remixed lets PSP system gamers relive the dawn of home console gaming while on the go by delivering over 40 of the biggest Atari 2600 titles, such as Pitfall , Kaboom !, Chopper Command , Stampede , Keystone Kapers , to the PSP (PlayStation Portable) system.  With the game’s multi-player supported classics, players can choose whether they want to game together utilizing a “Game Share" feature that allows two friends to play together using only one copy of the game or take turns on one PSP system or play via the game’s wireless functionality.  Activision Hits Remixed also features a rockin’ 80’s themed soundtrack, modernized front-end graphics, classic game manuals which include tips and photographs, and a host of retro unlockables.  The game has not yet been rated by the ESRB.

[Prepare dishes with speed and effectiveness or be disowned by a middle-aged woman who shoots fire out of her eyes.]

145

TalkBack / REVIEWS: Cooking Mama

« on: August 10, 2006, 08:33:14 PM »

Prepare dishes with speed and effectiveness or be disowned by a middle-aged woman who shoots fire out of her eyes.

In the real world, I’m a terrible chef. I’m probably the only person in the world who can burn water, and if a recipe calls for anything more advanced than bread, meat, and condiments, I’ll usually leave it to someone else. But in Cooking Mama, I’m an all-star cook, since the game’s not much more than WarioWare with a food angle.    

Keep in mind this is a review of the Japanese version, and while the game can be figured out with enough trial and error, you might want to wait for the localized version, as Majesco’s planning to release it in North America later this year. If you can’t wait to get your fix, though, head on over to our friends at Lik-Sang and order a copy.    

The premise for Cooking Mama is simple enough: under the direction of a middle-aged woman (“Mama," presumably), you’ll prepare a variety of Japanese-themed dishes. I really have to stress the Japanese part, as many recipes call for oddities like tomato slices and thick coats of mayonnaise on microwavable pizza. The most Americanized mission you’ll have will be to pour some instant coffee into a paper cup.    

But how does it work? The main game will show you a few rows of meals, and after picking one, you’ll have the option of practicing it first or heading right into the challenge. I’d recommend practicing dishes for your first few hours of play, until you get used to things. After that, you probably won’t see anything new, so jumping straight into challenges later on is fine.    

Actually making the dish is split up into multiple mini-games, all of which are very WarioWare-ish in nature. Using only the stylus, you’re required to complete tasks like cracking an egg over a bowl, stirring a pot, or moving the temperature slide on a stove to prevent your meal from over-heating.  Almost all of these will have a time limit, and based on your performance, you’ll get a Gold, Silver, or Bronze Medal. Anything lower than Silver warrants a fire-eyed scold from Mama, however, and it’ll affect your final score. If you can muster up a high percentage, a new dish will open up, eventually resulting in dozens of recipes to try out.    

Other modes of play include practicing mini-games you’ve already unlocked and another where you’ll be able to combine dishes to make something a little more grand in scope. While they’re a nice addition, most of your play-through will likely be spent on the main campaign.    

My main complaint about Cooking Mama is that, while the mini-games are fun at first, they’re used pretty frequently, and sometimes it’ll seem like you’re just making a different meal in a jumbled order. Also, there are some control issues where the touch screen won’t be as sensitive as it should be, often resulting in a Bronze simply because it wasn’t registering your actions properly.    

Cooking Mama’s presentation isn’t much to write home about, either. Although certainly sharp and colorful, it doesn’t look like anything the GBA couldn’t handle, and the limited animation just makes that all the more obvious. As far as the audio, it can be summed up in a few words: the same song is played throughout the entire game. The same song. Entire game.    

Cooking Mama was fun for a while, but after the novelty wore off, the repetition of the mini-games and the janky stylus controls just became a bigger and more noticeable defect, and while I’d love to praise the game for trying something different, I have to fault it for not having much depth. Nintendo’s recently-announced Cooking Navi sounds like it might be the true successor to the Cooking Simulation throne.

Pros:
       

For a while, it’s like WarioWare with food.  

Mama’s scolds are pretty hilarious.

       Cons:
       

Stylus controls are a bit wonky  

Mini-games get repetitive  

Mediocre graphics and sound  

Mayonnaise on pizza

               Graphics:  5.0
       While colorful and sharp, the DS is capable of a lot more, and considering that the top screen isn’t used as much more than a canvas for Mama’s character sprite, a lot more could’ve been done.

               Sound:  2.0
       The same song plays throughout the entire game. It’s not a particularly bad song, but the fact that there’s only one is a bit ridiculous.

               Control:  6.5
       For simple mini-games that only involved dragging or stirring, Cooking Mama controls pretty easily. Anything complex (like skinning a carrot or potato) results in a total waste of time.

                      Gameplay:  6.5
       Cooking Mama is fun at first, but when the novelty wears off, there’s not much depth to be seen. It’s a gimmick title, and not much else.

 

       Lastability:  7.5
       There are actually quite a few dishes to prepare, so if you’re willing to put the time in, you can enjoy a pretty lengthy experience. Chances are you’ll get tired of it before finishing, however.

 

       Final:  6.5
       I can only recommend this game if you’re a hardcore collector of niche games or if you really want to know how weird Japanese eating habits are. For anyone else, you’d be better off waiting for Cooking Navi.      

[A new SRPG, published by Marvelous.]

146

TalkBack / Luminous Arc Revealed for DS

« on: August 10, 2006, 05:47:24 PM »

A new SRPG, published by Marvelous.

In addition to showing off the new Harvest Moons, the latest issue of Famitsu also showed off a brand new Strategy-RPG for the Nintendo DS. Entitled Luminous Arc, the game will be developed by Image Epoch and will offer stylus-based control.    

What makes this announcement most interesting, though, is that Yasunori Mitsuda will contribute music to the game. Having worked on the excellent scores featured in games like Chrono Trigger, Chrono Cross, Xenogears, and Xenosaga, the soundtrack promises to be quite the treat.    

Keep your eye on PGC as more on this game develops.    

Thanks to duckroll at The GAF for the heads up.

[Get ready to milk cows on your DS and Wii.]

147

TalkBack / Two Harvest Moons On the Way

« on: August 10, 2006, 09:00:08 AM »

Get ready to milk cows on your DS and Wii.

According to the latest issue of Famitsu, Marvelous Entertainment is bringing two new Harvest Moon games to Nintendo systems. The first is Harvest Moon: Kimi to Sodatsu Shima, coming soon to the DS, which takes place on an island (the title actually translates to "The Island I Grew Up On"), and promises full stylus control.    

The second game will release on the Wii, and Marvelous plans on taking full advantage of the controller, allowing you to tilt the controller to water plants, pick up vegetables, etc. This game also takes place on an island, and it's been hinted at that the two may have some sort of connectivity.    

Stay tuned to PGC as more info on these games are released.    

Thanks to Jonnyram at the GAF for the heads up!

[After some confusion, we now know that the Prince is headed for Nintendo's next-gen console.]

148

TalkBack / Prince of Persia Confirmed for Wii

« on: August 08, 2006, 08:11:39 AM »

After some confusion, we now know that the Prince is headed for Nintendo's next-gen console.

Late last week, Ubisoft sent out a press release detailing their support for the Wii's launch. While certainly a great day for Nintendo fans, the French version of the release became the root of some confusion among the press. JeuxPo claimed that, not only were these games coming to Wii, but a brand new Prince of Persia was on the way as well.    

Naturally, this threw everyone off, as the North American version offered no such proclamation. Well, today Ubisoft finally spilled the beans to 1Up News, saying "A game based on the popular Prince of Persia franchise is one of many titles Ubisoft has in development for Nintendo's Wii. At this time we can not provide an official date for the game or any additional information about it."    

Well, there you have it. Prince of Persia is Wii-bound. Keep your browser tuned to PGC as more on this game is revealed.

[Rumors are running rampant about new Wii info at this year's German gaming exposition.]

149

TalkBack / Nintendo Speaks at Leipzig

« on: August 02, 2006, 12:53:05 PM »

Rumors are running rampant about new Wii info at this year's German gaming exposition.

With only three months or less until the Wii goes on sale, Nintendo still has quite a bit to reveal about the mysterious console. From its online plan to a solid launch list, the Big N still might have a few aces in its sleeve, and later this month, its hand just might be revealed.    

Starting on August 23rd, the Leipzig Games Convention in Germany will start, and Nintendo's scheduled to deliver a speech called "Wii prove our promise." It's unknown exactly what they'll be talking about, but the most popular prediction will be that they'll reveal five new games.    

Also scheduled to speak will be a multitude of Wii-supporting publishers, including EA, Ubisoft, Midway, and more. Stay tuned to PGC as more news on this convention breaks.

[Will Ubisoft’s favorite new FPS franchise be making its way to Nintendo’s next console?]

150

TalkBack / RUMORS: Is Far Cry Coming to Wii?

« on: July 08, 2006, 10:09:47 AM »

Will Ubisoft’s favorite new FPS franchise be making its way to Nintendo’s next console?

German developer Crytek came out of nowhere in 2004 and delivered one of the best PC first person shooters in a while with Far Cry. Since then, multiple versions of the game have made their way to the gaming public, either on the PC, Xbox, or Xbox 360. While Crytek has now left the franchise to Ubisoft, instead partnering up with EA for an original IP, Ubisoft still has control over where the franchise goes next.  Now there are rumors flying around that the series is coming to Wii.    

Recently, Amazon.ca put up a listing for "Far Cry Nintendo Wii," which has since been taken down. Afterwards, GoNintendo ran with it, and seems to be supporting its existence. Is it the truth? Let's look at it closely.    

We know that Ubisoft is one of the Wii's biggest fans, with exclusive games like Red Steel and special treatment for Rayman Raving Rabbids. Even so, we're not sure how many multi-platform releases are scheduled, so it's hard to say if games like Ghost Recon, Rainbow Six, etc. will show up. So far, things are not looking pretty.    

One thing to keep in mind is that Far Cry's a visually advanced title, and the Wii's not exactly bursting with processing power. Chances are we won't be seeing a port of the 360 version, even if there is any truth to this rumor. But since Far Cry Instincts was released on Xbox, it (or more likely, a sequel based on the Instincts engine) could certainly be transferred over to the Wii with a new control scheme.    

Of course, at the end of the day, we have to remember that all we have to go on is a listing on Amazon, which is hardly a confirmation. I'd put our chances of seeing this title come to fruition at 50/50, though. If Ubisoft does indeed send more of its franchises Nintendo's way, this will likely be one of the first ones.