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[UPDATE: Nintendo's latest accessory will be paired with DS game Personal Trainer: Walking.]

126

TalkBack / Nintendo Files Trademark for Digital Pedometer

« on: October 02, 2008, 05:51:18 PM »

UPDATE: Nintendo's latest accessory will be paired with DS game Personal Trainer: Walking.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16838

 Apparently Nintendo has been hard at work developing brand new hardware for consumers to take advantage of. A recent filing with the OHIM (official European Union agency responsible for registering trademarks and designs) reveals that Nintendo has created a pedometer, likely for use with Wii.    

Becoming more popular in today's health-oriented culture, pedometers are a simple tool that tracks the amount of steps a person takes. Given the health applications of the tool, a Wii Fit sequel seems to be a likely fit for it, though nothing is officially known about the tool or its applications.    

Given the fact that the pedometer itself has no external display, it seems unlikely that it will function as a standalone product and will likely need to interact with some other software in order to retrieve the information the pedometer stores.    

UPDATE: It's not WiiFit that the pedometer is intended for, but the recently revealed DS game Personal Trainer: Walking. The pedometer made an appearance in a DS highlights video that Nintendo presented at their Japanese Fall Media Summit. It will interact with the Personal Trainer: Walking software, keeping track of the user's walking activity during their daily activities.

[Nintendo's Japanese Media Conference reveals their solution to the oft-mentioned storage issues on the Wii.]

127

TalkBack / Wii Storage Solution Put Forth

« on: October 02, 2008, 03:11:01 AM »

Nintendo's Japanese Media Conference reveals their solution to the oft-mentioned storage issues on the Wii.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16810

 Nintendo President Satoru Iwata announced during Nintendo's Japanese Media Conference that they have found a solution to the Wii's storage issues and will be rolling out a firmware update to solve it soon.    

Players will be able to download Virtual Console and WiiWare games directly to their SD Card. Iwata said that this data would then be easy to transfer to the Wii's own memory afterwards.    

According to Iwata, the new feature will be available next spring. With Nintendo holding a press event tomorrow and NWR in attendance, look forward to further details as they break.    

CORRECTION: There is no clear indication at this time that games can be played directly from the SD card.

128

TalkBack / Why the DS is Dominating the Portable Market

« on: October 01, 2008, 04:21:51 PM »

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/blogArt.cfm?artid=16790

  There has been plenty of speculation since the DS and PSP war began as to why the DS is so effectively dominating the market and why the PSP is not. Some speculate it's Nintendo's blue ocean strategy. While this is clearly a factor I don't think it completely accounts for the monstrous discrepancy of sales between the two machines.    

Since purchasing my PSP early this (now past) summer I have noticed something about nearly all of the games I own. Most of them are simply console experiences shrunk to fit on a PSP screen. The play style, save structure, and overall experience is exactly what you might find on your PS2. While this sounds fantastic, it is quite clearly the biggest failure of the PSP.    

Arguably the most important role of any portable game system is providing a portable game experience. This may sound obvious, but it is pretty clear Sony wasn't considering this when they developed the PSP. The games they promote and encourage, such as God of War: Chains of Olympus which came as a pack-in with my PSP is by no means a portable game. It doesn't allow for quick and easy saves and doesn't give me the ability to play it in short bursts and pick it up and play it again later. This problem can even be extrapolated to describe the PSP hardware itself.    

The PSP hardware is disc-based thus effectively ruining any sort of battery life the system might have and only allowing for somewhere around four hours of continuous play. Furthermore, just getting the system started and into an actual game takes entirely too long. After two (or more) minutes the game is finally available for play.    

The DS suffers from none of these issues. Most games are designed to be highly portable, cartridges ensure little-to-no loading time, and battery life is phenomenal. Just these factors alone ensure that if you want to have a game system with you to play outside of your home, the DS is the one you are choosing.    

PSPs are technologically fantastic machines that do some really great stuff, especially when paired with the PS3, hell even a lot of the games on the system are quite good, but it utterly fails at doing what it is supposed to do; be a portable gaming machine.

[Featuring eighteen songs from some of AC/DC's best performances, these master tracks will be available mid-November.]

129

TalkBack / AC/DC Live Track Pack for Rock Band Coming to Wii

« on: September 30, 2008, 10:00:14 AM »

Featuring eighteen songs from some of AC/DC's best performances, these master tracks will be available mid-November.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16779

 MTV Games announced today that AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band Track Pack is officially on its way to Wii. The game will feature eighteen master recordings of live AC/DC material and will total more than 99 minutes of music for each instrument.    

The track pack will likely be packaged and sold at retail as opposed to being available as downloadable content for Wii. As such, US rockers will be paying $39.88 for the track pack, while UK gamers will pay £29.99, Europeans will pay €39.99, and Australians will pay $49.99. The odd pricing of the US version may lend credence to the rumor that the game is said to be exclusively available at Walmart, but there is still no official word at this time.    

AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band Track Pack will be available in the US November 16, with a pending worldwide release date. Players interested in the full track list can find it in the included press release below.    

AC/DC COMES EXCLUSIVELY TO ROCK BAND™ TO BRING AC/DC LIVE: ROCK BAND® TRACK PACK™ TO FANS WORLDWIDE    

Set List from Legendary Live AC/DC Performances Come to Life in Rock Band for Global Release Beginning November    

New York, NY, September 30, 2008 – AC/DC comes exclusively to Rock Band beginning this November for the worldwide release of AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band® Track Pack™ by Harmonix, the leading developer of music-based games, and MTV Games, a part of Viacom's MTV Networks, (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B). This exclusive deal with Columbia Records and AC/DC marks the first time ever the band has included an entire album for video game play, with 18 live tracks from their prolific live performances becoming available in one electrifying, standalone game. The AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band Track Pack allows players to experience this amazing set list with Rock Band, Rock Band 2 or other compatible music game peripherals. Full of the band's classic songs, the game will be available this November in the US and throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand beginning in early December.    

"When MTV first launched in 1981, we promised that people would 'never look at music the same way again' and, with Rock Band, we continue to fulfill this commitment," stated Paul DeGooyer, MTV's Senior Vice President of Electronic Games & Music. "We're excited to be part of AC/DC's and Columbia's global plan for the release of their new album, DVD and now, videogame. Being the first to present these revered songs in interactive form, exclusively on the Rock Band platform is a true honor. For those about to rock with the AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band Track Pack, we salute you!"    

"AC/DC fans can now experience performing live, on stage with the band," said Columbia Records co-Chairman Steve Barnett. "An unforgettable concert is now an ultimate at-home entertainment experience with the AC/DC Live: Rock Band Track Pack."    

AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band Track Pack will feature the master recordings from the best of the band's live performances. The live recording was specially remixed for Rock Band by Mike Fraser. The game features 18 tracks, with more than 99 minutes of game play for each instrument:    

 
• Thunderstruck
 
• Shoot to Thrill
 
• Back in Black
 
• Hell Ain't a Bad Place to Be
 
• Heatseeker
 
• Fire Your Guns
 
• Jailbreak
 
• The Jack
 
• Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
 
• Moneytalks
 
• Hells Bells
 
• High Voltage
 
• Whole Lotta Rosie
 
• You Shook Me All Night Long
 
• T.N.T.
 
• Let There Be Rock
 
• Highway To Hell
 
• For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)
 

   

All tracks from the AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band Track Pack will also be available for play in Rock Band and Rock Band 2 [1] by entering a special export authentication code for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system versions. As previously announced, AC/DC's anthem "Let There Be Rock" is featured in Rock Band 2 – the first time the group has been included in a music-based video game. In addition, look for the epic Rock Band 2 TV commercial featuring the studio version of AC/DC's rock anthem "Let There Be Rock" that premiered during the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards at www.rockband2.com.    

The AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band Track Pack will be available in the U.S. on November 2nd on Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and on November 16th for Wii™. Pricing for AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band Track Pack on Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 and Wii is MSRP $39.88 and MSRP $29.88 for the PlayStation 2. The AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band Track Pack will also be available at most major retailers in Europe, Australia and New Zealand in early December on Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3, PlayStation 2 and Wii. In the UK, AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band Track Pack will be MSRP £29.99 for Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 and Wii and MSRP £19.99 for the PlayStation 2. In the rest of EU, the AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band Track Pack will be MSRP €39.99 for Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 and Wii and MSRP €29.99 for the PlayStation 2. In Australia, AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band Track Pack will be MSRP $49.99 for Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3, Wii and PlayStation 2.    

AC/DC LIVE: Rock Band Track Pack follows the release of AC/DC's first album of all-new material in eight years. The album, "Black Ice," features 15 new tracks from brothers Angus and Malcolm Young, Brian Johnson, Cliff Williams, and Phil Rudd. "Rock 'n' Roll Train," the album's first single, was released on August 28. "Black Ice" will be available in the US exclusively at Wal-Mart and Sam's Club retail locations and Web sites Oct. 20 for $11.88, as well as on the band's Web site, www.acdc.com.    

Released first on Xbox 360 on September 14th, Rock Band 2 features the largest music catalogue of any music-based videogame to date including over 100 songs [2] on the Rock Band 2 soundtrack with an unrivaled blend of classic and new artists including AC/DC, Guns 'N Roses, Bob Dylan, Pearl Jam, Motorhead and more! The Rock Band online music store recently surpassed 21 million paid downloads since the game's launch in late November 2007. With more than 300 tracks available to date via disc and download purchase (complete list of tracks at http://www.rockband.com/dlc), the addition of complete and immediate backwards compatibility for songs purchased from Rock Band's ever-expanding online music store and the ability to export most songs from the original Rock Band disc, the Rock Band music library will feature more than 500 songs [3] by year's end.    

For more information on Rock Band and Harmonix Music Systems please visit www.rockband.com and www.harmonixmusic.com.    

Developed by Harmonix, MTV Games is the publisher of Rock Band. EA is the exclusive distribution partner for Rock Band.

[Nintendo is offering a 20,000 copy limited print of the DS Lite at Amazon now.]

130

TalkBack / Pink Ribbon DS Lite Available at Amazon

« on: September 29, 2008, 01:24:28 PM »

Nintendo is offering a 20,000 copy limited print of the DS Lite at Amazon now.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16754

 Late last week, Nintendo made available 20,000 copies of their white DS Lite with a pink ribbon emblazoned to the back of the top screen. The print is intended as support for breast cancer research with Nintendo contributing $5 per DS, or $100,000 in total to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure charity.    

   

Nintendo has vowed that they will contribute $100,000 regardless of whether or not the limited print sells out. Those looking to show their support for breast cancer awareness and research can pick up one of the limited pink ribbon editions of the DS Lite for $129.99 at Amazon.com now.

[Final Score: 9/10]

131

TalkBack / N+: A Semi-Formal Review

« on: September 26, 2008, 04:57:00 PM »

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/blogArt.cfm?artid=16746

  After recently picking up N+, I felt it was absolutely necessary to put together a review for the game.  I picked up the PSP version, which disqualified me from writing a review of the DS version of the game.    

Just to clear things up from the start, the PSP and DS versions supposedly only differ very slightly. The PSP version allows for unlimited downloads of user-generated content, whereas the DS has a restriction due to cartridge storage size limitations.  Also, the DS version has a useful map view on one of the screens to make level navigation easier. As a huge fan of user-generated content, I went with the PSP version to get maximum value out of the game.    

With those formalities out of the way, I would like to start by saying this game is awesome. N+ is simply a no-frills platformer. Players take control of a stick figure ninja who has two simple goals: open the exit door, and leave through said exit door. N+ is so barebones, it doesn't even bother covering up the minimalist gameplay with some silly story. You turn on the game and jump straight into action.    

The game is divided into five-level episodes which are unlocked progressively as sets of episodes are completed. In any given episode, players are given a simple time limit in the form of points. The points are constantly decreasing, and only the gold found lying about the level can increase the point total, which  increases the counter. At the end of the episode, the point total remaining is the player's score for the episode. This creates a situation in which players must optimally collect gold in order to attain the highest score; interestingly, collecting all the gold won't always make for the highest score, as some pieces take longer to collect than they are worth.    

N+ controls like a dream. N veterans will need to adjust, as the game feels slightly different from its flash counterparts. However, after adjusting players will likely be wall-jumping and gold-collecting with ease. Obviously, with little else in the N+ package, enjoyment is derived solely from the game's controls and platforming. Players are required to master the ninja's jumping (which grants players spectacular in-air control), as well as his wall-jumping techniques, in order to achieve the greatest satisfaction from the game.    

Nothing feels better than zipping around a level nabbing all of the gold, and hitting all of the required switches, without ever fully touching ground in the process. I found myself creating new goals, such as collecting all gold or avoiding a certain wall or the floor, just to feel like more of a badass during the level's completion. Yeah, there isn't any reward tied to my self-imposed goals, but damn do they feel good to complete.    

The simple presentation of N+ also works in its favor. There is little background nonsense to distract or confuse you, and all of the unique enemies are clearly identifiable at first glance. Even better, fans of the original N's presentation will be able to enable "pure" graphics in order to return N+ to its roots. The game's solid frame rate also helps complement the silky-smooth feeling of the controls.    

Like its graphics, N+’s background music and sound effects are also quite simple. Though generally passable and sometimes interesting, the music tends to fade into the background and is often subconsciously disregarded in light of the far more engaging gameplay.    

The game is rounded out with the previously mentioned user-generated content capabilities. Players can quickly and easily produce levels with all of the features found in the single player mode.  Furthermore, players can upload their creations to the internet and quickly and easily play/download any levels created by other N+ players. Naturally, quality and challenge is all over the board, but a user rating system helps players select the best levels available. Players can even qualify their rating, as the game also tracks how many times each stage has been played.    

N+ also includes a couple of multiplayer modes (cooperative and competitive) that may interest players. Unfortunately I was unable to test them as I don't have a second PSP nor do I know anyone who even owns one.    

Platforming fans looking for the latest and greatest in the genre needn't look further than N+. Its spectacular controls and simple premise make it a total blast to play; users only need to decide whether the DS or PSP version suits them best. In either case, players are getting an excellent title that won't quickly leave their system.    

Final Score: 9/10

132

NWR Forums Discord / Gustave, The Killer Croc

« on: September 26, 2008, 04:31:25 PM »

Pic here

Article here

Estimated in 2004 to be 20 feet (6 meters) long and 2,000 pounds (907 kilograms), Gustave is reputed to have devoured scores, even hundreds people along the Rusizi and Lake Tanganyika.

lol awesome.

[Konami's touch-based adventure title is now available in America.]

133

TalkBack / Time Hollow Bending Time on DS

« on: September 25, 2008, 01:10:59 PM »

Konami's touch-based adventure title is now available in America.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16738

 Konami announced earlier this week that their latest touch-based adventure title for Nintendo's DS is now available in stores.    

The game puts the Hollow Pen in the hands of the player, allowing them to follow the quest of Ethan Kairos through the past and present. Ethan seeks his missing parents and uses the Hollow Pen to bend time in order to find them.    

The game's deep storyline was created by anime studio AIC which housed the producer of Blood+ and director of Gundam SEED. Junko Kawano, scriptwriter for Suikoden IV penned the exact words of the script as well as molding the variety of interesting characters featured in the game.    

Time Hollow is rated T for Teen by the ESRB and is available in America now for the suggested retail price of $29.99.    

KONAMI SHIPS TIME HOLLOW FOR THE NINTENDO DS™ TO RETAIL STORES NATIONWIDE    

Travel Through Time in the All-New, Original Story-Driven Adventure    

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. - Sept. 23, 2008 - Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. announced today that Time Hollow for the Nintendo DS™ has shipped to retail stores nationwide. In this original, time-bending adventure, players are allowed to explore the past and present simultaneously, solving mysteries of the present as they learn about events of the past.    

In Time Hollow, players take on the role of Ethan Kairos, who is on a quest to unravel the mystery surrounding the sudden disappearance of his family. As players begin their journey, they come across a Hollow Pen, an extraordinary object that has the amazing ability to open portals to the past. Using the stylus pen and touch screen for the DS, players utilize the Hollow Pen to explore the past and present simultaneously in order to help Ethan find his parents.    

Time Hollow reveals a deep storyline featuring key scenes created by AIC, the famous anime studio with the producer and director of Blood+ and Gundam SEED, respectively. The sprawling mystery also features a variety of interesting characters that come to life via the words of Junko Kawano, scriptwriter for Suikoden IV.    

Time Hollow is rated "T" for Teen by the ESRB and retails for $29.99. For more information, please visit: www.konami.com.

[Lego Batman: The Videogame was unleashed by Warner Bros. Interactive earlier this week.]

134

TalkBack / The Dark Knight Swoops Onto Wii and DS in Lego Form

« on: September 25, 2008, 09:09:12 PM »

Lego Batman: The Videogame was unleashed by Warner Bros. Interactive earlier this week.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16737

 Warner Bros. Interactive and TT Games announced earlier this week that Lego Batman: The Videogame, the latest in the Lego game series, is now available for both Wii and DS.    

The blocky offering is based in Gotham City, and as with all Lego games, players are able to play as either good or evil characters. The game centers on a common Batman story that involves the most infamous of villains breaking free of the Arkham Asylum and wreaking havoc on Gotham City, while the Dynamic Duo pursues them.    

Players will be able to experience a set of fifteen hero levels and a set of fifteen villain levels. Also a staple of the Lego series, players will be able to experience either set of levels solo or co-op with a friend.    

Lego Batman: The Videogame is available now across America for Wii and DS at the suggested retail price of $49.99 and $29.99, respectively.    

WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT AND TT GAMES LAUNCH   LEGO® Batman™: the VIDEOGAME    

Join the CAPED CRUSADER and other legendary heroes as they work to keep infamous villains, such as The Joker, CATWOMAN and THE PENGUIN, from running amok through GOTHAM CITY    

Burbank, Calif.. – September 23, 2008 – LEGO Batman: The Videogame, published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and developed by TT Games, ships to retail stores nationwide today on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, PlayStation®2, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Wii™, Nintendo DS™ and Windows PC.    

Gotham City’s most notorious criminals have broken out of ARKHAM ASYLUM and it’s up to the DYNAMIC DUO to stop them. Based on the iconic DC Comics' heroes BATMAN and ROBIN, as well as many other memorable characters from the DC Comics Universe, LEGO Batman: The Videogame blends the wildly popular Batman universe with the versatility of LEGO building and the humor of the LEGO minifigure. Unlike any LEGO game done in the past, players can now explore their wicked side and play the game as the villains, not just the heroes.    

From the rooftops to the sewers, players will experience Gotham City like never before as they choose to play from the perspective of either the villains, entering the game from Arkahm Asylum, or the heroes, swinging into action from The BATCAVE. LEGO Batman: The Videogame features fifteen hero levels and fifteen villain levels – for a total of thirty unique action-packed levels. Play as comic heroes Batman, Robin, ALFRED PENNYWORTH and BATGIRL, or wreak havoc as The Joker, HARLEY QUINN, MR. FREEZE, TWO-FACE and many more!    

LEGO Batman: The Videogame features a completely original storyline, encompassing the lighthearted charm of LEGO and the multifaceted lore of Gotham City. LEGO Batman: The Videogame features co-op multiplayer allowing for easy pick-up-and-play. Players can also get behind the wheel of legendary vehicles, such as the BATMOBILE and BATWING. Enhance the abilities of the Dynamic Duo by unlocking Batman and Robin’s suits to help fight Gotham’s villains, or use The Joker’s electric buzzer to give our heroes a shock.    

LEGO Batman: The Videogame is a fast-paced action adventure title for fans of all ages. It is rated “E10+” and is available on the Xbox 360 Entertainment System, PLAYSTATION 3 system and Wii for $49.99. It is also available for the PlayStation 2, PSP system, Nintendo DS and PC, for $29.99.

[The second iteration of the DS Path of the Ninja series is completed and heading to stores soon.]

135

TalkBack / Naruto: Path of the Ninja 2 Goes Gold

« on: September 25, 2008, 06:04:01 PM »

The second iteration of the DS Path of the Ninja series is completed and heading to stores soon.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16734

 Tomy Corporation and D3Publisher announced earlier this week that the localization of Naruto RPG 3: Reijuu vs Kinoha Shoutai has been completed, and will be released as Naruto: Path of Ninja 2 on October 14.    

The RPG title follows the Naruto crew through a completely original storyline where thirty of the most powerful ninjas defend the Hidden Leaf Village. The character roster has increased since the first title and will still feature fan favorites such as Naruto, Sasuke, and Rock Lee. Players will be able to experience the brand new Ninja Tag system along with the ability to select a Squad- Leader.    

Players looking to further their experience beyond the end of the game will be able to make use of the game's included Wi-Fi multiplayer modes.    

Naruto: Path of the Ninja 2 will be available for the Nintendo DS in America on October 14 and is rated E10+ by the ESRB.    

NARUTO™: Path of the Ninja™ 2 for Nintendo DS™ Strikes Gold    

Latest in NARUTO Role-Playing Franchise Soon to Perform Shadow Clone Jutsu onto Store Shelves Everywhere    

LOS ANGELES - September 23, 2008    

TOMY Corporation and D3Publisher, publishers of interactive entertainment software, have announced that NARUTO: Path of the Ninja 2 for the Nintendo DS™ has gone gold and will be shipping to stores on October 14th. The sequel to the only NARUTO role-playing game available in North America, Path of the Ninja 2 gives players a chance to defend the Hidden Leaf Village as 30 of the most powerful ninja in the NARUTO universe through a completely original storyline.    

"There has been a huge progression between the original RPG title on the DS and Path of the Ninja 2," said Laura Yoshioka, director of consumer software at TOMY Corporation. "Between the expanded character list, the Wi-Fi battle system, and the new squad-building options, this is an adventure that should appeal to the inner ninja of players everywhere."    

With 30 characters to choose from, including favorites like Naruto, Sasuke, and Rock Lee, plus an all-new Squad Leader and Ninja Tag systems, there have never been more ways to create the perfect ninja squad. The improved and intuitive battle system will make it easy for even the newest fighters to get into the combat, using the Touch Screen to unleash devastating melee and jutsu attacks, while the Wi-Fi multiplayer feature will offer aspiring ninja the chance to take on challengers from around the world. Based on VIZ Media’s hit animated series, NARUTO: Path of the Ninja 2 is scheduled to ship to retail stores on October 14th, and is rated "E10+" (everyone 10 and older).    

For more information on NARUTO, please visit www.naruto.com. For more information on NARUTO: Path of the Ninja 2, please visit www.Naruto.Tomy-usa.com.

[Mega Man 9 falls from the heavens, along with a couple Virtual Console classics and another unique WiiWare release.]

136

TalkBack / This Week's Virtual Console and WiiWare

« on: September 22, 2008, 04:28:07 AM »

Mega Man 9 falls from the heavens, along with a couple Virtual Console classics and another unique WiiWare release.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16723

 This Week's Virtual Console and WiiWare provides us with an epic update containing two for the Virtual Console, and two for WiiWare, one of which is the eagerly anticipated Mega Man 9.    

Mega Man 9, the latest entry in the mainline Mega Man series has been developed as a spiritual successor to Mega Man 2. The entry will feature 8-bit graphics and sound along with special features to enable flicker and slowdown present in the NES originals. Mega Man 9 is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB is available now through the Wii Shop Channel for 1,000 Points ($10).    

The second WiiWare release of the week, Plättchen twist 'n' paint is puzzle shooter that "delivers more than 100 hours of fun" and allows for up to eight simultaneous players. Players must guard the birth of ZeLeLi and defeat the evil black Shadow Plättchen through the game's 300+ levels. Plättchen twist 'n' paint is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB is available now through the Wii Shop Channel for 1,000 Points ($10).    

The first of two classics on this week's Virtual Console is Super Dodge Ball for the NES. Players take control of the US Dodge Ball team and travel the world to become the best team on Earth. The arcade-style gameplay allows players to manage their team in matches or play with a friend in co-op or head-to-head play. Super Dodge Ball is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB is available now through the Wii Shop Channel for 500 Points ($5).    

The Genesis classic, Vectorman rounds out this week's stellar release set. The platformer-shooter puts players in control of the titular character, an Orbot who was left on Earth after mankind has let for greener pastures. The Orbots are cleaning up the over polluted Earth in order to make it habitable once again. WarHead, one of the Orbots left on Earth has started an uprising and only Vectorman stands in the way of his global domination. Vectorman is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB is available now through the Wii Shop Channel for 800 Points ($8).    

  WII-KLY UPDATE: TWO WIIWARE GAMES AND TWO VIRTUAL CONSOLE GAMES ADDED TO WII SHOP CHANNEL    

Sept. 22, 2008    

What does your Wii™ library say about you? Are you fanatical about one style of game, or do you favor a brimming variety of sports, puzzle and fantasy titles? Fortunately for gaming fans of all kinds, the Wii™ Shop Channel makes it easy and fun to expand your collection in any direction. A few waves of the Wii Remote™ controller will introduce you to the latest Virtual Console™ and WiiWare™ offerings this week, featuring classic sci-fi adventure and some invigorating twists on familiar pastimes.      

Nintendo adds new and classic games to the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points™ to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:    

WiiWare    

Mega Man™ 9 (CAPCOM, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone-Mild Cartoon Violence, 1,000 Wii Points): Mega Man fans, the wait is over! The classic Blue Bomber that debuted in 1987 is back with the ninth installment in the classic series. It's a new adventure for Mega Man done in an 8-bit style-graphics, music and gameplay are all like you remember them.    

PLÄTTCHEN twist 'n' paint (Bplus, 1-8 players, Rated E for Everyone, 1,000 Wii Points): PLÄTTCHEN twist 'n' paint is a crazy, challenging puzzle shooter that delivers more than 100 hours of fun, supporting up to eight players simultaneously. Guard the birth of ZeLeLi and free them from the menace of the evil black Shadow Plättchen. Play as one of the countless FantasyMEs and fight as an astronaut, butterfly, car or football against sharks, cowboys, asteroids and skulls in numerous, fabulous fantasy Worlds. Use items and multipliers in combos to fight yourself to the top of the high scores and find the perfect way to solve a level. Go wild in three completely different game modes of PLÄTTCHEN twist 'n' paint with more than 300 levels. Twist cooperatively with your friends or compete through many multiplayer modes.    

Virtual Console    

Super Dodge Ball™  (NES™, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone-Mild Cartoon Violence, 500 Wii Points): In Super Dodge Ball, you take control of the USA Dodge Ball team and travel the world in an effort to become the best dodge ballers around. Step onto playing fields in countries all over the globe and use a combination of normal and super shots to help take down your opponents. But be careful, as some destinations have surfaces that can affect your footing. Manage the team as you think best, and swap out characters with other players that better fit your playing style. Two players can enjoy a head-to-head game or play a spirited round of Bean Ball, a six-character free-for-all. Three difficulty levels are available (Easy, Medium, and Hard); which one you choose will depend on your skill and courage. Do you have what it takes to lead Team USA to the ultimate prize and win the world championship of dodge ball?    

Vectorman™  (Sega Genesis, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone-Animated Violence, 800 Wii Points): In the year 2049, mankind is forced to abandon an over polluted Earth and seek out other planets for colonization while the mechanized Orbots stay behind to clean up the mess. When the Orbot leader, WarHead, starts blowing a few circuits and causes a war among the mechanical brethren, a sludge pilot named Vectorman is the only one willing to step up and fight him. You'll morph into a speeding train, a power drill, a mechanical fish and a mighty dune buggy in this action-packed adventure. Equip yourself with weapons, pick up morphs and power-ups to defeat WarHead, and restore peace on Earth.    

For more information about Wii, please visit wii.com.

[The DS sequel to the Xbox 360 title is being brought out of Japan for a worldwide release.]

137

TalkBack / Blue Dragon Plus Announced for Worldwide Release

« on: September 22, 2008, 11:23:05 AM »

The DS sequel to the Xbox 360 title is being brought out of Japan for a worldwide release.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16722

 Ignition Entertainment announced early last week that they would be publishing the AQ Interactive title Blue Dragon Plus for the DS in North America and Europe early next year. The title was directed by Hironobu Sakaguchi, famous for creating the Final Fantasy series, and features character designs from artist Akira Toriyama, whose work includes Chronotrigger and the Dragonball anime. It also has a soundtrack from composer Nobuo Uematsu, who is also known for his work on many Final Fantasy games.    

The DS sequel is set one year after the original Xbox 360 title and returns players to the story of Shu and his companions, who control powerful phantom shadows. In the DS title, they will have to deal with new enemies spawned from the devastation wrought in the first title.    

The game will feature a thirty hour quest as well as the ability to control up to sixteen humans and Mecha Robos in real-time battles and shadow fights.    

Blue Dragon Plus will be available March 2009 in both Europe and North America on the DS.    

Ignition Entertainment Acquires Exclusive Video Game Publishing Rights to... Blue Dragon Plus for Nintendo DS™    

Property Slated to Release Across North America and Europe in March, 2009    

Glendale, CA – September 16, 2008 – Ignition Entertainment Ltd., a UTV Enterprise, a worldwide publisher and developer of videogames, in conjunction with AQ Interactive invite gamers around the world to "Awaken the Power Within" when Blue Dragon Plus for Nintendo DS™ breathes fire across North America and Europe in March 2009.    

Directed by Hironobu Sakaguchi, Blue Dragon Plus features character designs by Akira Toriyama, and a soundtrack by Nobuo Uematsu.    

Currently a top-rated show on Cartoon Network in the U.S., the story of Blue Dragon centers on a young boy named Shu and several of his friends who possess the ability to control phantom shadows that mirror the actions of their masters. In Blue Dragon Plus, one year has passed since Shu and his companions defeated the tyrannical remnant of the Ancients, Nene. In the midst of the battle, the world split in two and now consists of a myriad of "cubes" that exploded from its depths. King Jibral notices a mysterious cube in the distance suddenly start to move violently, and from it he sees the Shadow of a Balaur, a three-headed dragon, emerge. The enormous and sinister Shadow is just the beginning of the new turmoil and devastation to come.    

"We are thrilled to be able to take Blue Dragon Plus to market," said Ajay Chadha, President of Ignition Entertainment. "Out-of-the-box thinking and effective marketing are the cornerstones of our success, and this acquisition relays our standing commitment to that. Clearly our partners have as much faith in Ignition as we have in their products!"    

"Ignition Entertainment has proven to be an excellent partner for us and we look forward to working together with them again with the launch of Blue Dragon Plus in North America and Europe next year," said Tomoyuki Takechi, CEO of AQ Interactive Inc.    

Blue Dragon Plus Features Include:  

 
• Single Player Campaign With Over 30 Hours of Game Play
 
• Legion vs. Legion
 
• Control up to 16 humans and Mecha Robos to fight against a horde of enemies
 
• Equip your units with items and alter their composition to bolster their strength
 
• Exciting Real-Time Battles and Shadow Fights!
 
• High Quality Dual Screen FMV's Showcasing More Than an Hour of Story Events!
 
• Exciting RPG Elements Such As Item Collection, Character Progression and Robot Customizations
 

 

[It's coming soon, very soon.]

138

TalkBack / Mega Man 9 Release Date Revealed

« on: September 19, 2008, 12:22:10 PM »

It's coming soon, very soon.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16708

 Through a recent posting on the Capcom Blog, the release date of Mega Man 9 has been revealed for North America. This coming Monday, September 22, the game is said to be hitting the WiiWare service. As usual this date is subject to change as the only official release information is provided by Nintendo's own Wii-kly Update.    

The game will also be appearing on the Playstation Network and Xbox Live Arcade shortly thereafter, on September 25 and October 1 respectively. No word was given on release in other regions, though the Japanese release has already been set for September 24, two days after the North American release.

139

TalkBack / Gaming's Graphical Future

« on: September 19, 2008, 06:59:05 AM »

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/blogArt.cfm?artid=16706

  Traditionally a game's graphical prowess has been determined solely by the number of pixels it was able to push on the screen. Everything was about the latest and greatest technology and the everlasting quest to attain life-like graphical output in real-time. While this quest is a noble one, I don't feel that it will truly pave the future of graphics in gaming.    

The Wii with its underpowered graphical prowess has already provided gamers with some of the best looking games of this generation. How is this possible, one might ask? Simple, outstanding art direction. We have seen games like Super Mario Galaxy, Okami, No More Heroes, Zack & Wiki, de Blob, and the upcoming Madworld. Every one of these games oozes with style and has a very distinctive artistic style that allows its lackluster graphics to outshine the pixel-pushers of some of the other systems.    

Of course this isn't anything new, but only now has it become clearly apparent with the Wii and DS being significantly underpowered when stacked against their rival machines. Not only will the stylistic presentation of games with great art direction outshine most "realistic" games, but they will likely stand the test of time as well. As technology pushes forward, these games will simply be seen as relics of the past, artifacts of a time when technology was only capable of doing so much.    

I think the perfect example of this can be seen when looking at Wind Waker and Twilight Princess. Granted Twilight Princess still looks great, but Wind Waker is literally breathtaking and its stylistic approach to the series will always be remembered and revered.    

I can only hope that more game designers start to see this simple fact and adjust their goals to achieve great art rather than great graphics. While this approach shouldn't and won't work for everyone, it would be nice to see a longer list of companies who take the stylistic approach rather than the realistic one.

[Color Your World.]

140

TalkBack / REVIEWS: de Blob

« on: September 19, 2008, 06:16:29 AM »

Color Your World.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/reviewArt.cfm?artid=16705

 de Blob started life as an independent game developed by a collection of eight students at the Utrecht School of the Arts. The game made a significant splash at the 2006 Independent Games Festival, where it caught the attention of THQ. Since then I've kept an eye on its development, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to play it for myself. Now that the game has finally released and I have had the opportunity to experience it, I can honestly say that it was worth the wait.    

Players are introduced to de Blob's setting, the dystopian Chroma City, during the first cutscene of the game. The I.N.K.T. Corporation has sucked the color from the city and oppressed the Raydian inhabitants, transforming them into Graydians. Blob, our story's hero, is a part of a revolutionary group focused on bringing color and life back to the city by painting the world and retaking the I.N.K.T. corporate strongholds.    

In order to restore Chroma City to its former colorful self, players are required to complete a wide variety of challenges in each district of the city. All challenges are completed with a fairly simple set of controls that boil down to rolling around with the analog stick, jumping with a flick of the Wii Remote, and performing homing attacks by Z-Targeting and flicking the Wii Remote.    

The simple control scheme is bound to a fairly simple goal in each of the main missions, which is to reach the level's exit. A series of gates are present to prevent you from blasting straight to the exit. Points to unlock the gates can be gathered through four different venues: coloring buildings, completing challenges, defeating I.N.K.T. soldiers and equipment, and rescuing Raydians.    

The simple goal structure paired with the point mechanism give the game considerable depth. Though not immediately apparent, the game tracks a number of other goals in addition to just reaching the end of the level. Each mission can be played in a race against the clock to achieve the time limit goal, treated as a point attack mission, or approached from a completionist angle tasking the player with coloring everything and anything the level has to offer. This truly gives the game enormous replay value and considerable length as well. In my experience, levels could be completed in as little as eight minutes, or could last for up to and hour and a half if you were to color every last bit of the level.    

The package is sweetened considerably when you factor in the unbelievable aesthetics of the title. de Blob simply oozes style and personality. Even when the city is completely uncolored, it looks sharp and stylish; flash forward to moments nearing full completion and the city is booming with life, color, and unbelievable visual appeal. The FMV sequences that appear prior to each level are also fantastic and extremely well-produced. They invoke memories of Pixar films, featuring the same humor and style.    

The outstanding visuals are paired with an amazing audio track that is brought to life along with the city. At the beginning of the level, the selected "mood" track is very basic with minimal beats and instruments, but as the city becomes more colorful, so too does the audio. More instruments are brought into the mix, giving a party-like sensation when the whole city is colored. When buildings are painted, different sound bytes are mixed into the background track depending on the color of Blob, giving an audible cue to accompany the visual painting of the building; the Wii remote also rumbles, providing tactile feedback that thoroughly engages the player.    

de Blob is rounded off with a compelling multiplayer mode. Up to four players are able to face off in unique multiplayer modes. Players can race, go head-to-head, or play a King of the Hill-style match. Multiplayer is absolute insanity with four players, but the framerate takes a hit as a result of splitting the screen. Even playing with only two competitors significantly affects the game's framerate.    

Multiplayer framerate issues aside, another factor that detracts from the experience are minor glitches that occur from time to time. Occasionally you'll get stuck in tight corners and need to use a variety of techniques to free yourself from a wall, and other times you'll find the jumping to be slightly unresponsive (which forces you to redo certain challenges). Fortunately these glitches are infrequent, and rarely interfere with your enjoyment of the game.    

de Blob is defined by its pure unadulterated fun. While it doesn't have the best platforming, the most complicated puzzles, or the most involved action mechanics, as a whole it's something to behold. Players familiar with Sega's Jet Grind/Jet Set series and Namco's Katamari Damacy will feel right at home. de Blob is an outstanding addition to the Wii library, and every gamer out there should give it a shot.

Pros:
       

Extremely fun and engaging

 

Beautiful graphics

 

Lively soundtrack

 

Pixar-like cutscenes and storyline

 

Deep yet accessible gameplay

       Cons:
       

Glitchy at times

 

Framerate issues in multiplayer

               Graphics: 10.0
       de Blob is lively and beautiful. Painting walls looks fantastic, as does all of the splattering paint effects. The FMV cutscenes are stunning and almost on par with Pixar movies.

               Sound: 10.0
       The game's soundtrack fits the mood at all times. Drab colors equals boring, lifeless music, while a painted world results in an upbeat party tune.  When paired with the additional effects from painting buildings, the result is an aural feast.

               Control:  8.0
       The waggle jump is sometimes unresponsive and can be slightly problematic. Getting yourself stuck in a corner is also easily done, and there is no easy way to get yourself un-stuck.

                      Gameplay: 10.0
       The combination of de Blob's various game elements truly makes for some of the most fun and engaging gameplay seen on the Wii thus far. While it may not feature the best aspects of all the genres represented in its gameplay, de Blob's experience is more than the sum of its parts.

 

       Lastability: 10.0
       The tiered structure of level goals along with a solid multiplayer mode gives players plenty to come back to. Additionally, most players will be so engaged in the world of de Blob they will likely want to experience it again regardless of new challenges. Free Play mode provides players with just such an outlet.

 

       Final:  9.0
       de Blob is easily one of the best offerings on Wii this year. It is a full package with only minor flaws.  Its tiered goals provide varying depth and challenge for all types of players.  Every Wii owner out there owes it to themselves to give de Blob a try.      

[Though known primarily for their portable shooters, Shin'en's upcoming minigolf title appears to be shaping up admirably.]

141

TalkBack / Shin'en Reveals Fun! Fun! Minigolf Details in Interview

« on: September 10, 2008, 04:48:17 PM »

Though known primarily for their portable shooters, Shin'en's upcoming minigolf title appears to be shaping up admirably.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16673

 In a recent interview with WiiWare-World, German developer Shin'en revealed a number of details regarding their recently announced WiiWare title, Fun! Fun! Minigolf.    

Though known primarily for their portable Nintendo shooters, the company decided to change pace for their first Wii title and go for a competent Minigolf experience. Upon starting development they had two major goals: "make the game look better than most Wii titles" and improve upon "the weak [putting] of Wii Sports Golf."    

From screenshots it is very obvious that Shin'en was able to accomplish their first of two goals. The game pushes the graphical boundaries of the system using things like "blooming, normal mapping, [and] image based HDR lightning," and it still manages to fit within the 40 MB limit of WiiWare titles.    

They "just had to plan carefully," according to CEO Manfred Linzner. "Before starting with any content we sat down and calculated precisely how much space each part of the game would need." By breaking the game into its core pieces, "audio, graphics and code," they were able to budget for each section of the title and fit everything into the restriction without needing to go back and revamp or cut any section of the game.    

Their success on improving on the putting in Wii Sports Golf is obviously yet to be demonstrated, but Linzner claims that though "it was not easy to master" they were able to handle "very soft and quite hard shots without losing control."    

The interview has also revealed that the title will include twenty-seven unique holes spread across Europe, Asia, and North America. One locale revealed in the interview was in the Alps near a traditional Bavarian cottage. Each locale featured in the game will allow players to putt at any time of the day, morning, afternoon, and evening. "This adds a lot of realism and allows different graphical effects for different daytimes," explained Linzner.    

Players will be able to play either solo or in competition with up to three friends. Medals will be earned based on performance. "In general, each hole can be played in one stroke," challenged Linzner, but each "needs a different approach."    

The title is set to feature male and female "professional voice actor ... commenting the game," along with "music you will remember." Linzner "[felt] that current games often have too boring and casual audio," so upon creating Fun! Fun! Minigolf, the team made it a point to create more memorable music.    

Linzner also revealed that neither Miis nor season and weather effects would be included in the game. Miis were excluded because "it's a bit boring to have nearly every WiiWare game with Miis" and because "using Miis means … adopt[ing] your style to fit with those simple characters."    

The title is currently finished and set to release sometime this fall after it clears Nintendo quality assurance for 1,000 Wii Points ($10).    

Linzner closed the interview revealing that Shin'en's next title will also be a WiiWare title "all about exploration and action" and will be "mostly a single player experience," and that Nanostray may be continued on WiiWare depending on the second title's reception in Europe.

[In the latest Popcorn Arcade title, get down and dirty with the Olympigs in eight unique events.]

142

TalkBack / Farmyard Party: Featuring the Olympigs Coming to Wii

« on: September 09, 2008, 12:00:17 AM »

In the latest Popcorn Arcade title, get down and dirty with the Olympigs in eight unique events.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16665

 Today, Data Design Interactive announced their latest title in their Popcorn Arcade line, Farmyard Party: Featuring the Olympigs. The title will feature eight unique events across four categories: all-round, speed, power, and skill.    

Players will be able to enjoy the marathon challenge, party modes, single events, and bonus games all while using the Wii Remote and Nunchuk to complete the various challenges. As players complete challenges, records will be stored locally and high record scores will unlock new characters, bonus games, and a development gallery.    

Farmyard Party: Featuring the Olympigs will be providing family fun early next year.      

Popcorn Arcade Presents Pig Trotters and Bacon Races in... Farmyard Party - featuring the Olympigs....    

Stourbridge, England, 8th September 2008.    

Data Design Interactive - a successful video games publisher and games developer are pleased to unveil their latest game to be released on their dedicated Nintendo Wii label Popcorn Arcade; Farmyard Party – featuring the Olympigs.    

Farmyard Party: Featuring the Olympigs brings farmyard fun to the Nintendo Wii. The game has eight Olympig events which are divided into four categories: all-round, speed, power, and skill. Game modes include a marathon challenge, party modes themed around event styles, single event fun and some hilarious bonus games.    

The game play revolves around using a combination of the Wii Remote and Nunchuk in various ways to complete each event. The events require a combination of speed, timing and more than a little sweat! Alongside the challenges of beating the game records and those of your friends, there are a number of new characters, bonus games and a development gallery for players to unlock.    

Based on the cornerstones of sportsmanship and competitiveness of the fun and crazy games, Farmyard Party is an ideal choice for family friendly fun in the New Year. Farmyard Party: Featuring the Olympigs provides an entertaining multiplayer experience (4 player mode), with colourful graphics and physically demanding gameplay.

[The recently revealed Groovin' Blocks launches as planned, along with another two TG-16 shooters, one of which includes man-tastic man-beams.]

143

TalkBack / This Week's Virtual Console and WiiWare

« on: September 08, 2008, 02:09:59 PM »

The recently revealed Groovin' Blocks launches as planned, along with another two TG-16 shooters, one of which includes man-tastic man-beams.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16663

 This Week's Virtual Console and WiiWare brings another solid week of releases with one new title for WiiWare and two for the Virtual Console.    

The sole WiiWare release of the week is the recently announced Groovin' Blocks. Bringing an interesting mix of rhythm, action, and puzzles, Groovin' Blocks puts players up to the test of 27 stages and three skill levels ranging from Easy to Hard. Players will work to solve the featured puzzles to the beat of the music while trying to hit "Superbeats" in order to double their multiplier. Successful completion of the 27 stages will award players stars that unlock fifteen levels of power-ups. Players will be able to tackle the puzzles co-op if the challenge is too high, or head-to-head for extended play. Groovin' Blocks is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB and is available now through the Wii Shop Channel for 800 Wii Points ($8).    

Final Soldier for the Virtual Console is yet another TurboGrafx-16 shooter, but one that is a part of the larger "Soldier" series including the unique WiiWare release Star Soldier R. Similar to Star Soldier R, players will control a star ship in a score-attack type mode where they must achieve the highest score in either a 2-minute or 5-minute session. The various power-ups will aid players in defeating the invaders and racking up massive points. Final Soldier is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB and is available now through the Wii Shop Channel for 700 Wii Points ($7).    

This week's final release has been oft mentioned on our own podcast, Radio Free Nintendo and has already been released in both Japan and Europe on the Virtual Console. Cho Aniki, an import shooter for the TurboGrafx-16 is finally upon us. Players will control either "Idaten or Benten, celestial warriors out to bring an end to the tyrannical rule of the emperor of Planet Builder, who holds muscular prowess to be the supreme virtue of the universe." The man-tastic adventure will allow players to fly around, firing their man-beam to defeat the evil forces of the Planet Builder. Cho Aniki is rated E10+ by the ESRB for "Suggestive Themes" and can be had currently for 900 Wii Points ($9).    

WII-KLY UPDATE: ONE WIIWARE GAME AND TWO VIRTUAL CONSOLE GAMES ADDED TO WII SHOP CHANNEL    

Sept. 8, 2008    

School's back in session, but it's not the only place to get your brain buzzing. This week's additions to the Wii™ Shop Channel include a challenging new puzzle game available via WiiWare™, plus a pair of crackling Virtual Console™ actioners to keep your imagination raging between classes. Even if your school days are behind you, this latest lineup of downloadable titles will help get you fired up for fall, fueled by the one-of-a-kind fun of Nintendo's top-selling Wii™ system.    

Nintendo adds new and classic games to the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points™ to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week's new games are:    

WiiWare    

Groovin' Blocks (Empty Clip Studios, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone, 800 Wii Points): A music-based game like no other, Groovin' Blocks adds innovative musical game play to an addictive action/puzzle game foundation. Play to the rhythm of the music to increase your score, and try to hit "Superbeats" to double your multiplier. Go for the high score in each of the 27 stages as you collect stars to unlock 15 levels of power-ups. Groovin' Blocks features three skill levels, from the accessible Casual to the fiendish Hard mode. Play with your friends in co-op mode or against them head-to-head. Head-to-head brings it up a notch as the power-ups now become attacks on your opponent. Play head-to-head with people of all skill levels using a golf-style handicapping system.    

Virtual Console    

Final Solider (TurboGrafx16, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone—Mild Fantasy Violence, 700 Wii Points):  A vertically scrolling shooter from the well-known Soldier series. In the 23rd century, invaders from the future suddenly attack Earth. Controlling a fighter created by the world's scientists, you rise to meet the enemy. Collect power-up units, such as LASER, E-BEAM, FIRE and MISSILE, and then equip them in Options to launch a variety of attacks. For each of these weapons, you can freely select from three different types in SET-UP. Anticipate enemies' strikes and deftly switch between weapons to defeat the invaders. In addition to NORMAL GAME, there are also 2 MINUTE GAME and 5 MINUTE GAME score-attack modes. The most perfect blend and balance of any game in the series, Final Soldier is a title you don't want to miss.    

Cho Aniki (TurboGrafx16 CD-ROM, 1 player, Rated E10+ for Everyone and Older—Mild Fantasy Violence, Mild Suggestive Themes, 900 Wii Points):  The odd world in this shooter made for quite the conversation piece in its day. Players control either Idaten or Benten, celestial warriors out to bring an end to the tyrannical rule of the emperor of Planet Builder, who holds muscular prowess to be the supreme virtue of the universe. Aided by able-bodied muscle-head options Adon and Samson, they must battle to defeat the emperor's army across five stages. Use the buttons to fire away and lay into the Builder forces. Power up your character and options with protein from defeated enemies to have them "bulk up" with a yell, and take their macho battle to the next level.    

For more information about Wii, please visit wii.com.

[Spore Creatures is complete and will be available on DS in Europe and the Americas by this Sunday.]

144

TalkBack / Spore Creatures Breeding on DS

« on: September 05, 2008, 09:38:37 AM »

Spore Creatures is complete and will be available on DS in Europe and the Americas by this Sunday.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16658

 EA announced yesterday that Will Wright's latest creation, Spore and Spore Creatures, is being released to the world over the course of the week. The DS version, Spore Creatures is the only version of Spore to be released on a Nintendo system. There is no word included on release date or details of the previously announced Wii version.    

Spore Creatures puts the universe in the hands of the player allowing them to create and evolve life, establish tribes, build civilizations, sculpt worlds, and eventually conquer distant planets and civilizations. The robust tool set included gives players the ability to craft nearly everything in the Spore universe.    

Spore Creatures will be available in most regions on Sunday, September 7.    

SPORE AVAILABLE AT RETAILERS WORLDWIDE THIS WEEK FROM EA AND MAXIS    

The Wait is Over! The Next Big Bang from the Creator of The Sims Invades Planet Earth This Week    

Emeryville, CA – September 4, 2008 – How will you create the universe? Gamers around the world can find out this week as the highly anticipated video game Spore™ ships to retailers for the PC, MAC® and Nintendo DS™, mobile phones and the iPhone™. Spore is rated E10+ by the ESRB, and retails for $49.99. The collectable Spore Galactic Edition is also available for $79.99, which includes "The Making of Spore" DVD, a hardback art book, fold-out poster, 100-page Galactic Handbook and the National Geographic Channel documentary "How to Build a Better Being" DVD.    

Spore will be on store shelves around the world on the following dates:    

 
• September 4th: Germany, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Austria, Finland and Australia
 
• September 5th: Rest of Europe and South America
 
• September 7th: North America
 

   

Spore gives players their own personal universe in a box. Create and evolve life, establish tribes, build civilizations, sculpt entire worlds and explore a universe filled with creations made by other gamers. Spore gives players a wealth of creative tools to customize nearly every aspect of their universe: creatures, vehicles, buildings, and even spaceships.    

"Spanning hundreds of millions of years, Spore's scope is unprecedented in gaming. It has been a long time in the making and the team at Maxis is excited to finally share the game with the world," said Will Wright, chief designer at Maxis. "We can't wait to see the amazing worlds that our fans build, as they tell their own stories with the game."    

"Spore is an outstanding achievement," said Frank Gibeau, President of the EA Games Label. "The blending of gameplay, editors and online community through pollinated content came together to deliver on Will Wright's big idea – to create and control your own personal universe. The team at Maxis has built an extraordinary game that has the potential to become a platform for creativity, and innovation for years to come."    

To download a free trial of the Spore™ Creature Creator, please visit www.spore.com. For screen shots or more information about Spore, please visit our press web site at http://info.ea.com.

[Former Nintendo of America Vice President will be making a return to gaming via her new company Zebra Partners once her non-compete agreement with Nintendo ends.]

145

TalkBack / Perrin Kaplan to Return to Gaming

« on: September 05, 2008, 09:20:08 AM »

Former Nintendo of America Vice President will be making a return to gaming via her new company Zebra Partners once her non-compete agreement with Nintendo ends.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16657

 Perrin Kaplan, former Nintendo of America Vice President for Marketing and Corporate Affairs, made an appearance at this year's Penny Arcade Expo to speak on a panel about sex and violence in gaming.    

"I have not left the gaming industry for good. I love it," said Kaplan during her discourse on the panel. Due to a non-compete clause in her Nintendo contract, she is not able to take her new company, Zebra Partners, into the gaming arena until December of this year. The Zebra Partners website currently offers no further information on the company's activities.    

Kaplan earned another hearty applause while on panel stating that "parents who use videogames as a babysitter shouldn't have sex to begin with."

[The start-up developer is bringing its rhythm-puzzle title to WiiWare next week.]

146

TalkBack / Empty Clip Studios Announces Groovin' Blocks for WiiWare

« on: September 05, 2008, 09:18:12 AM »

The start-up developer is bringing its rhythm-puzzle title to WiiWare next week.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16656

 Empty Clip Studios announced today that their puzzle-action title Groovin' Blocks is coming to WiiWare next Monday, September 8.  (According to Nintendo, WiiWare or Virtual Console release dates are not official until confirmed by the Wii-kly Update on Monday mornings.) The studio is a brand new company started by Francois Bertrand and Matt Shores, two industry veterans who were involved with titles such as Gladius, Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith, and The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers.    

Groovin' Blocks for WiiWare, the studio's debut title, blends both the rhythm and puzzle genres into a twenty-seven level title that should appeal to hardcore and casual alike. Players will be able to unlock up to fifteen extra bonus items as well as compete head-to-head or tackle the title cooperatively.    

Groovin' Blocks will be available through the Wii Shop Channel this coming Monday for 800 Wii Points ($8.00 USD).

[A recent posting on the Japanese Virtual Console website reveals that Seiken Densetsu 2, known in English as Secret of Mana, is making its way to the service.]

147

TalkBack / Square RPGs Launching on Virtual Console in Japan

« on: September 05, 2008, 09:14:07 AM »

A recent posting on the Japanese Virtual Console website reveals that Seiken Densetsu 2, known in English as Secret of Mana, is making its way to the service.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16655

 A new posting on the Virtual Console website in Japan reveals that Square-Enix is starting to show increased support of the service, at least in Japan. A listing for Seiken Densetsu 2, also known as Secret of Mana in the West, is going to be their first major RPG release on the service later this month. The title is one of Square's highly regarded SNES RPGs and is known for its unique style, including the pictorial, ring-style menu.    

With Super Mario RPG now available in all regions as a collaboration between Nintendo and Square-Enix, it is clear that the company's support is slowly ramping up. Though nothing is known of a U.S. release at this point, it seems likely, considering that the game was released in English.

[The PlayStation 2 air combat title from 2006 is arriving on Wii later this month.]

148

TalkBack / Rebel Raiders: Operation Nighthawk on Flight to Wii

« on: September 05, 2008, 08:36:25 AM »

The PlayStation 2 air combat title from 2006 is arriving on Wii later this month.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16654

 XS Games announced yesterday that Rebel Raiders: Operation Nighthawk, originally a PlayStation 2 air combat title, is coming to Wii September 16. The title is developed by Kando Games and puts the player in the role of a leader of the "Ghost Squadron" elite resistance military unit.    

Players will lead a group of inexperienced fighter pilots in a quest to save mankind from the corruption of the Union of World Nations. Through the game's thirty four unique missions, players can pilot up to twenty three different fighter planes and defeat and destroy enemy pilots and bases.    

Rebel Raiders: Operation Nighthawk is rated E10+ by the ESRB and will be available in North American retail outlets September 16 with a MSRP of $29.99.    

XS GAMES ANNOUNCES REBEL RAIDERS: OPERATION NIGHTHAWK FOR NINTENDO Wii™    

New Arcade Style Air Combat Game for Nintendo Wii Available on September 16    

NEW YORK, NY - September 4, 2008 - Videogame publisher XS Games announced today a new arcade style air combat videogame, Rebel Raiders: Operation Nighthawk, for the Nintendo Wii™. Developed by Kando Games, Rebel Raiders: Operation Nighthawk is set in a futuristic universe. The player assumes the role of a brave and grizzled pilot, leader of the elite resistance military unit "Ghost Squadron". At the player's command is a group of brave but inexperienced fighter pilots that only the player can lead into battle. The objective: to save mankind from corruption and turmoil at the hands of the Union of World Nations. At stake, is the fate of the world - victory is the only option.    

A single player game that uses both the Wii Remote and Nunchuk to control a player's aircraft, Rebel Raiders: Operation Nighthawk features ground shaking weapons, non-stop combat and thrilling special effects. The game's 34 unique missions can be navigated with 23 different fighter planes, allowing the player to fly at amazing speeds and create spectacular explosions. By commanding the Ghost Squadron, completing missions and defending the front line, the player earns points for a chance to fly top-secret planes with devastating weapons. Players have to demonstrate they have what it takes to become a true Rebel Raider.    

Rebel Raiders: Operation Nighthawk has an ESRB rating of E10+ and will have a suggested retail price of $29.99. The game will be available at retail outlets nationwide on September 16th.

[An alternate story to the already released PC adventure game is coming to the Wii and DS with PC like controls using the stylus and IR pointing.]

149

TalkBack / Brand New So Blonde Adventure Coming to Wii and DS

« on: September 04, 2008, 04:46:11 PM »

An alternate story to the already released PC adventure game is coming to the Wii and DS with PC like controls using the stylus and IR pointing.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16648

 Last week, DTP Entertainment announced their first venture onto Wii and DS: a continuation of the already released PC adventure game, So Blonde. So Blonde for Wii and DS is not a port of the original PC title, nor is it a sequel. Both games will be a retelling of the story with different occurrences in the same basic premise of the original title.    

So Blonde stars Sunny, a rich, blonde, seventeen year old girl who is on a cruise in the Caribbean with her parents celebrating their wedding anniversary. One day a thunderstorm strikes, causing Sunny to fall from the ship into a life boat, knocked unconscious. Upon waking up she finds herself washed up on a stranded island that is oddly dark with strange black sand. Over the course of the game Sunny will make her way to the inner island and discover all of the hidden secrets of the dark "Forgotten Island."    

As a classic point-and-click adventure title, So Blonde will leverage the DS stylus and the Wii Remote's IR pointing to mimic the mouse-driven gameplay found in the original PC version.    

So Blonde will be available in Europe on the Wii and DS sometime in 2009, with no word currently on release elsewhere.    

dtp entertainment announces So Blonde for Wii and Nintendo DS: New story, new features    

Hamburg/Germany, August 26th, 2008 – Again: She's 17, she's blonde and she only faces "problems" with her hair and make up. No need to worry about anything when Sunny cruises with her rich parents the Caribbean to celebrate their wedding day.    

But suddenly a thunderstorm hits the ship, Sunny falls overboard into a life boat. When she regains consciousness, she notices herself being washed ashore on the beach of an island. She has no idea either where she is or where her parents and all the other cruise shippers are – she's lost.    

This is how the PC version of Steve Ince's adventure game So Blonde starts. Back then, Sunny faced that beautiful Caribbean scenery – now, in So Blonde for Wii™ and Nintendo DS™, this has changed: The island appears dark, no one is to see at the shores and strange black sand crunches underneath Sunny's feet. Rugged rocks border the beaches – Sunny has to make up something to get to the inner island. What was that up there on the cliff? Wasn't there a man? If so, why does he ignore Sunny's cry for help? Sunny will face a new adventure…    

dtp entertainment and Wizarbox have announced the adventure game So Blonde for Wii and Nintendo DS which is a completely new adventure game, based on the beautiful heroine of the already-released PC versions. This time, the game's story, again written by adventure gaming legend Steve Ince, makes Sunny explore the dark side of the Forgotten Island, where she stranded.    

Some of the incidents happening on the island are the same as in the PC version – but this time, Steve Ince drives the story into a completely new direction. Other islanders are coming to the fore and are taking over the lead roles in So Blonde for Wii and Nintendo DS.    

Both version's controls have been adapted to fit Wii Remote, Nunchuk and Nintendo DS-Touchpen easily. So, point & click control feels as it's meant to be. Also the party mini games included in So Blonde benefit from Nintendo's intuitive control systems. dtp entertainment is going to release So Blonde for Wii and Nintendo DS in 2009.

[The Xbox Live Arcade title is being ported to Wii this winter with new modes and controls.]

150

TalkBack / Pirates vs. Ninjas Dodgeball to be Released on Wii

« on: September 04, 2008, 02:10:27 PM »

The Xbox Live Arcade title is being ported to Wii this winter with new modes and controls.
 http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/newsArt.cfm?artid=16642

 Gamecock Media Group announced last week that Blazing Lizard's Pirates vs. Ninjas Dodgeball will be coming to Wii later this year. The game pits two of the internet's biggest rivals, Pirates and Ninjas, against each other for an epic dodgeball matchup.    

Pirates vs. Ninjas Dodgeball allows up to eight players to take part in the match using a variety of teams including pirates, ninjas, zombies, robots, and three still unannounced teams. Each team has its own technique and strategy and offers more than just a simple palette change.    

The port to Wii will include an altered control scheme catering to the Wii's unique controls and an all-new story and challenge mode. Pirates vs. Ninjas Dodgeball will be available this winter in North America.    

BLAZING LIZARD'S PIRATES VS. NINJAS™ DODGEBALL ABOUT TO BE UNLEASHED ON Wii™    

Intense Dodgeball Rivalry to be Settled on Wii Courts Everywhere This Winter    

Cockpit, Austin, TX – August 28, 2007 – Gamecock Media Group announced today that Blazing Lizard’s Pirates vs. Ninjas™ Dodgeball will release on Wii™ this winter. The title features two ancient rivals, ninjas and pirates, along with several other teams, all looking to settle the score once and for all – on the dodgeball court.    

“The competition between the Pirates and the Ninjas is so huge that battles are breaking out all over,” said Harry Miller, El Presidente of Gamecock Media Group. “We’re happy to bring this grand conflict to the Wii, and give players the chance to help determine who the ultimate champions are.”    

Pirates vs. Ninjas™ Dodgeball will have scurvy thieves squaring off against crafty martial artists in large, detailed arenas. The game allows for up to eight players and offers a total of seven teams, including pirates, ninjas, robots and zombies plus three unannounced ball slingers. Each team utilizes its own unique techniques and strategies to try and ultimately defeat the enemies. Unique to Wii version, the game will offer all-new story and challenge modes, along with several customized control schemes.    

Pirates vs. Ninjas™ Dodgeball is scheduled for release this winter. For more information visit www.gamecockmedia.com and www.piratesvsninjas.com.