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[The North American Nintendo Direct is now live.]

101

TalkBack / North American Nintendo Direct 10/25/2012 Live Blog

« on: October 25, 2012, 10:02:45 AM »

The North American Nintendo Direct is now live.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/blog/32242

The North American Nintendo Direct has begun check below for live updates:

10:01 - Presentation is beginning with some Paper Mario goodness.

10:02 - Enemies change forms, then you have to change your strategy.

10:03 - There is a sticker museum, apparently you will want to go there often.

10:03 - A more formal trailer is beginning.

10:05 - Mario just picked up a goat and is using it in battle... The goat ate the enemies.

10:06 - Next up is Professor Layton.

10:07 - Reggie is describing how this game could be for anyone even newcomers to the series.

10:08 - 365 downloadable puzzles for free. We knew about this but I still think it is really awesome.

10:10 - Will be releasing more downloadable lessons in the future. For Art Academy

10:11 - Talking Style Savvy next. "It may be a guilty pleasure."

10:12 - Next Style Savvy demo coming next week.

10:13 - Onto some New Super Mario 2 DLC, which is available now.

10:14 - Talking about alot of old news (older retail games are available on eShop)

10:15 - Moving onto Crashmo. Features doors, move switches, and floating blocks.

10:15 - Can rotate the camera view, we've seen this stuff before.

10:16 - Available November 22.

10:16 - Now onto Fluidity: Spin Cycle.

10:17 - Fluidity: Spin Cycle is coming December 27.

10:18 - Liberation Maiden is available today. Aero Porter and Crimson Shroud coming later this year.

10:18 - Nightsky out today, Ikachan coming later this year.

10:19 - Started a sizzle reel of various eShop games, including some VC ones.

10:20 - I don't think there has actually been any new news yet.

10:20 - Fire Emblem will be coming to North America at some point.

10:22 - Can create your own character to go on the adventure as well.

10:22 - Will feature DLC like Japanese version of the game.

10:24 - Had a trailer of Fire Emblem, it looked beautiful.

10:24 - Next up Animal Crossing.

10:25 - Called Animal Crossing: New Leaf.

10:25 - Talking details we have heard before like the fact that you are mayor and customized clothing.

10:26 - Began a "short sneak peak"

10:28 - Trailer ended with DJ K.K.

10:28 - Reggie seems to be wrapping it up.

10:29 - Closing it out with what will probably be a montage video of things they talked about today.

10:30 - Snuck in a bunch of other stuff like Etrian Odyssey and Castlevania into this video at the end.

10:30 - Alright that looks like the end. Thanks for reading everyone.

[Catch those ghosts in 2013.]

102

TalkBack / Luigi's Mansion 2 Heading to Japan in Q1 2013

« on: October 25, 2012, 08:28:33 AM »

Catch those ghosts in 2013.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/32238

Luigi's Mansion 2, called Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon in North America, is heading to Japan in the first quarter of 2013. The game, which was previously given a general 2013 release date, has had its release window narrowed down slightly. While it has been given an official name in North America, Japan is still using the name Luigi's Mansion 2. Whether this will change is currently unknown.

The game features a wide variety of mansions, including a mansion that is snowed in and a mansion that is infested with plants. Check out our impressions of the game from this year's E3. Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon will similarly release in North American at some point during 2013.

[Check out our live blog of the Japanese Nintendo Direct.]

103

TalkBack / Japanese Nintendo Direct 10/25/2012 Live Blog 

« on: October 25, 2012, 07:04:52 AM »

Check out our live blog of the Japanese Nintendo Direct.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/blog/32235

Hi everyone the stream is just starting and I will be blogging along with it. Follow along below for live updates.

7:01 - Band Brothers is coming to 3DS.

7:03 - Checking out the 3DS version of Crashmo.

7:05 - Crashmo is coming to Japan on 10/31. Pushmo is getting a temporary discount as well.

7:07 - Fluidity Spin Cycle is coming sometime during December in Japan.

7:07 - Next up some NSMB2 talk.

7:09 - There's a Golden Mushroom pack coming as DLC... there are lots of golden mushrooms.

7:10 - A fifth pack appears to be another leader board pack.

7:11 - Time to show off some more Animal Crossing 3DS.

7:15 - Japanese players will be able to buy the game at midnight. There is also some kind of crossover with Style Savvy.

7:19 - Showing off some EX Troopers gameplay, I think this game looks solid.

7:20 - EX Troopers is coming on November 22. This was probably known before.

7:22 - Pokemon Mystery Dungeon is being shown. Looks like you can enter dungeon through the AR abilities on the 3DS.

7:23 - Mystery Dungeon is coming on November 23.

7:23 - Now some Prof. Layton vs. Ace Attorney.

7:25 - Talking how the game features mixed gameplay.

7:28 - Still talking very in depth about the game. Not sure how much of it is new information.

7:33 - After all of that they are following with some Paper Mario: Sticker Star (I'm really excited for this game.)

7:35 - Showing off a bunch of gameplay and different styles of attacks.

7:35 - Coming December 6 in Japan.

7:37 - Toriko Gourmet Monsters is coming on December 13 in Japan. Over 200 monsters to tame.

7:38 - Briefly talked Inazuma Eleven.

7:39 - Moving into Fantasy Life which looks really cool.

7:40 - Fantasy Life coming on December 27 in Japan.

7:42 - Reco Choku is a free application for music on 3DS.

7:44 - Next up is Dragon Quest 10.

7:46 - The Wii U version will be coming in 2013 with added Ranger and Paladin classes.

7:49 - Features GamePad only play.

7:51 - The beta test vouchers with premium Wii U's can be used in February.

7:53 - Talking Monster Hunter on Wii U. You can customize the GamePad's screen display.

7:56 - Can transfer data from the 3DS to the Wii U version of the game.

7:59 - Can do local multiplayer between Wii U and 3DS's. 

8:00 - Now some Luigi Mansion 2 talk for Japan, coming in 2013.

8:03 - Show is basically over, just playing some videos at the end.

[Expect primarily 3DS information with a little bit on Wii U.]

104

TalkBack / Japanese Nintendo Direct Streaming Tomorrow Morning

« on: October 24, 2012, 08:29:40 PM »

Expect primarily 3DS information with a little bit on Wii U.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/32227

A Japanese Nintendo Direct presentation will take place tomorrow morning at 7 a.m. EST / 4 a.m. PST.

The event scheduled for October 25 is going to focus on both the Wii U and the 3DS. Some of the Wii U information will come in the form of additional details on a previously announced title. Most of the presentation will focus on the 3DS.

For those not living in North America, here is a list of times for some regions:

04:00 AM PST
07:00 AM EST
11:00 UTC
13:00 CET
08:00 PM JST (Tokyo Time)

[A lot of content, not a lot to do.]

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TalkBack / Academy: Chess Puzzles Review

« on: October 24, 2012, 11:36:51 AM »

A lot of content, not a lot to do.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/32177

Chess has always been a hobby of mine, so the idea of challenging myself with a large amount of chess puzzles intrigued me. Academy: Chess Puzzles provides plenty of challenging puzzles, and not much else. 

The game spreads 750 puzzles over 3 difficulty settings, the difference in which is interchangeably hard to notice and blatantly obvious. Although this challenge roller coaster can frustrate, it is easy to skip over levels and come back to them later. Those unaware of the basic mechanics of chess will run into problems, since the game in no way teaches you how to play chess, leaving beginners to the game out of luck. Academy: Chess Puzzles only advertises to one audience: chess enthusiasts. The game might have benefited from the inclusion of some kind of tutorial for beginners, or even a full chess mode for the more dedicated audience the game plays to.

Aside from basic puzzle solving, the game includes a quiz mode to test your speed. Complete any given puzzle within an allotted time and you receive points, and progress to the next puzzle. Make one wrong move, or fail to solve it within the time limit, and you lose one of your three lives. While these constraints can make for an enjoyably tense experience, the tolerance for wrong moves is unforgiving. If you make a wrong move you also lose the chance to try that puzzle again—the game instead moves you onto a new puzzle where you start from square one.

Academy: Chess Puzzles isn’t a bad puzzle game, but would benefit from some refinements. Only chess enthusiasts will get anything from playing, and even then the experience may be frustrating.

106

TalkBack / Re: Wii U GamePad Works 'Fine Within the Same Space'

« on: October 17, 2012, 01:32:19 PM »

I know on day one I will be walking all over my house with it just trying to figure out exactly where I will be spending my next week.

[Can you use the controller in your bathroom? Several factors will contribute.]

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TalkBack / Wii U GamePad Works 'Fine Within the Same Space'

« on: October 17, 2012, 11:56:35 AM »

Can you use the controller in your bathroom? Several factors will contribute.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/32157

The Wii U GamePad "will be fine within the same space" according to Toru Yamashita of Nintendo's product development department during the latest Iwata Asks.

Some individuals will be able to use the Wii U GamePad at a further range than others, but it will all come down to the interference between the console and the controller.

Iwata explained that "Differences will arise depending on whether you live in a house made of wood or an apartment of reinforced concrete, and what materials the walls are made out of."

Nintendo Engineering Manager Tat Iwamoto further explained "If you place the Wii U console in something like a metal TV stand it may deflect the radio waves thus reducing its usable range. Radio waves weakens by the square of the distance, so even within the same space, too much distance could make them weaker, and having obstacles in between would be a disadvantage."

Ultimately each households range will be different. Wii U owners will have to experiment on their own to find the maximum range they can still use the GamePad. Last month Nintendo commented that the Wii U Gamepad works best within 24 feet of the system. This distance is most likely a rough estimate.

[A new image appears to tease some Nintendo characters joining Maxwell in his latest adventure.]

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TalkBack / Scribblenauts Unlimited Teaser May Hint at Nintendo Characters

« on: October 15, 2012, 04:15:12 PM »

A new image appears to tease some Nintendo characters joining Maxwell in his latest adventure.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/32133

A teaser image for the upcoming 3DS  and Wii U versions of Scribblenauts Unlimited appears to show some iconic Nintendo characters in grayed out silhouettes. The image was discovered by Kotaku. 

The picture's text reads "Guess who's playing with Maxwell? Find out October 17."

Two groups of characters are grayed out, but deduction suggests they are Nintendo characters. The silhouette on the left seems to show Yoshi, Princess Peach, and possibly a Mario-esque figure. The silhouette on the right shows a horses outline, which could possibly be Epona from the Legend of Zelda series.

Whoever is in these grayed out images will become known on October 17. Whether this reveal will be a stand-alone announcement, or if it will be part of a larger event is currently unknown.

Scribblenauts Unlimited is also coming to the PC, however if these do turn out to be Nintendo characters, there is little chance of the Nintendo icons jumping over to that platform.

[The Australian developer is supposedly porting yet another game to Nintendo's new system.]

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TalkBack / RUMOR: Straight Right Bringing Major Square Enix Title to Wii U

« on: October 15, 2012, 01:16:04 PM »

The Australian developer is supposedly porting yet another game to Nintendo's new system.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/32129

Straight Right is rumored to be porting a "triple-A" Square Enix title to the Wii U. This information comes from an update to Straight Right Technical Project Manager Chris Slater's LinkedIn profile.

Before Slater's profile was updated, it read "Working for Straight Right on a short term contract, porting a triple-A Square Enix game to the yet-to-be-released Wii U platform."

Straight Right studios is the Australian developer responsible for bringing Mass Effect 3 to Nintendo's newest home console. In addition to Mass Effect 3, Straight Right previously announced they are also developing two additional games: an original IP and a game based on a big franchise. Whether this rumored Square Enix title is the game based on the big franchise is currently unknown, but it is possible.

Current speculation theorizes the game could be Deus Ex: Human Revolution, Sleeping Dogs, Hitman Absolution, or Tomb Raider. Nothing has been officially confirmed, so only time will tell if and what Straight Right is working on for Square Enix.

[These birds are very angry. I am surprisingly not.]

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TalkBack / Angry Birds Trilogy Review

« on: October 10, 2012, 03:51:50 PM »

These birds are very angry. I am surprisingly not.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/32071

Have you ever heard of Angry Birds? If you answered no, I’m not sure where you have been for the past few years. Angry Birds has become the quintessential iOS/Android game because of its quick and fun gameplay. The series has had many iterations over the years and while they are not that different from each other, people keep coming back for more. Angry Birds Trilogy takes three of these iterations (Angry Birds, Angry Birds Seasons, and Angry Birds Rio) and combines them into one 3DS package.

You can freely select between any of the games, all of which are essentially the same. The only major difference is the objects included in the playfield, which don’t really have an effect on gameplay. I would have preferred to see a different style Angry Birds game, like the more recent Angry Birds Space, in the place of one game and two reskins. Repetitive ideas aside, what is included on the card is in great bounty. Each game features hundreds of individual levels that can be digested in small or large intervals. As a handheld game, the pick-up-and-play nature of Angry Birds Trilogy is very appealing. The game can also be played on the go for free on other mobile devices, as long as you are cool with ads.

The gameplay of Angry Birds Trilogy doesn’t offer much variety to those looking for an in-depth experience, though. Using either the touch screen or Circle Pad (touch screen controls are vastly preferred) you pull back a slingshot and launch an “Angry Bird” at a tower of blocks in order to destroy the enemy pigs (or to free caged birds in Angry Birds Rio). There are multiple styles of birds that affect the strategy you use when you take down structures to get to the baddies within. However, most of the time I found myself not caring about strategy and just flinging the birds and adjusting my play style to achieve success on the fly, ultimately reducing the game’s depth even further.

The game does feature some other content to appease those hungry for either high scores or achievements. High scores in a game such as Angry Birds feel shallow, because of the lack of interaction you do with the game. In each level you generally make two or three gestures and the rest is left up to the in-game physics. Achievements, like high scores, are not a great way to add replay value to a game like this, but for those that like them, achieve away.

In addition to these minor features, Angry Birds Trilogy offers unlockable levels and Mighty Eagle challenges. Completing specific tasks award you with a golden egg, unlocking additional content. However, unlike achievements, you are unable to view what task unlocks this award. As for the Mighty Eagle, it becomes available after you complete a level. Upon replaying that level, you can use the Mighty Eagle in an attempt to destroy everything on the screen. Every few levels I found myself trying to completely annihilate a level, but to achieve 100% destruction was quite difficult. A StreetPass function is also available that allows you to “migrate” a bird to another 3DS and transfer a short bird song you record. I didn't get to StreetPass with anyone, but I do currently have a bird out migrating.

The 3D effect on the game is serviceable, and not anything to highly praise. With the camera generally zoomed out to fit both the slingshot and the structure in frame, much of the picture is hard to view, even on the 3DS XL. It also doesn’t help that the slingshot is controlled on the lower screen so looking back and forth is rather distracting.

Angry Birds Trilogy is only a decent port of a game that has become a well known commodity. While this version of Angry Birds is virtually unchanged from its free iOS/Android equivalents, if you are a huge fan of Angry Birds, a 3DS rendition may be just what you want. The game is packed with content, and will leave you with plenty to do for many hours.

[In this special Staff Sez, we ask the staff what they are most anticipating in the latter part of 2012.]

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TalkBack / Staff Sez #9: Fall Anticipation

« on: October 10, 2012, 03:07:42 AM »

In this special Staff Sez, we ask the staff what they are most anticipating in the latter part of 2012. 

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/feature/31873

Video Game fans rejoice come the fall season almost every year. It is that special time where nearly every week is filled with a high profile release. This year's fall season is not only filled with some great content on the 3DS, but also the release of the Wii U. Like Staff Sez's in the past, we prompted the entire staff with a question "What are your most anticipated games this fall?" However, instead of limiting their response to one line, we wanted to know every facet of their fall hype; so we gave them a paragraph to do so. 

Read on to find out what everybody is looking forward to getting their hands on this fall. If there is anything special you are very excited about shout it out in the talkback below.

Neal "Skylander Giants" Ronaghan

For me, there are two non-Nintendo-published games that are tipping the scales of anticipation. Skylanders Giants is the sequel to one of my favorite games of 2011, and as such, I can't wait to use all my toys and fight evil and junk. Epic Mickey: Power of Illusion, a throwback to old Disney platformers, is something that speaks my gaming language. I love DreamRift's games, and I have a soft spot for Disney. On the Nintendo-published front, Paper Mario: Sticker Star looks fantastic and Nintendo Land is, by far, my most anticipated Wii U game. All in all, I'm pretty sure I have the same gaming tastes that I did when I was five years old. I have no problem with this.

Alex "Paper Mario" Culafi

After a bit of deliberation, I think the game I'm most excited about is New Super Mario Bros. U. It's clear that (unlike the 3DS game) this has the 2D Mario A-team behind it, and it seems like it is being treated as a love letter to games of the past. The other Mario game I'm excited for is Paper Mario: Sticker Star. Paper Mario and its sequel are two of my favorite games, and even though I'm fearful of the new changes, I have confidence in Intelligent Systems. It also seems necessary to give honorable mentions to Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two and the PlayStation Vita game Persona 4: Golden. I'm a huge fan of the original Epic Mickey, and view it as one of the most creative platformers I have ever played. Considering that Junction Point will jam in tons of classic Disney stuff, I have faith that the sequel will be even better. And as far as Persona goes, I played Persona 3 for the first time a couple of months ago, loved everything about it, and am especially excited to try the definitive version of the sequel.

Carmine "LEGO City" Red

I'm currently looking at my list of "will-buy" Wii U launch window games and having difficulty singling any of them out. But if I had to pick just one, it'd be Lego City: Undercover. I'm starved for some open-world action ala the Wii's Godfather: Blackhand, and have never owned a Lego game before, so that's a double whammy of newness for me. There's some danger that Lego City: Undercover will slip to a 2013 release though so let me pick a backup choice: Karaoke Joysound for the Wii. It must be obvious that I enjoy Karaoke, but the reason I'm pumped for a Wii game despite the Wii U's imminent launch is that Karaoke Joysound may be the answer to my karaoke prayers. Karaoke Joysound will put a huge selection of songs at my fingertips, 1000 songs in their online library that I can't wait to sing poorly. I apologize in advance to all my neighbors.

Pedro "Epic Mickey" Hernandez

While there are many cool games coming out in the fall and holiday season, the one that has captured my heart and imagination is Epic Mickey: Power of Illusion. It's no secret that I am a big Disney fan; I have been since I was 4 years old. Mainly, I have been a huge fan of the Disney animated classics, from Snow White to Tangled; I love them all. When I read that Power of Illusion was going to feature worlds and characters from the movies, I was in. The animated movies mean a lot to me, and Power of Illusion so far looks to pay loving tribute to them in a spectacular manner.

Zach "Code of Princess" Miller

My first most-anticipated game is easy: Code of Princess. I've written about it before. It was my Game of Show at E3. It's a brawler with RPG trappings and, most importantly, a busty, scantily-clad princess with a giant sword. Otherwise, I can't think of too many "most anticipated" games. Dead or Alive 5 is up there, and I'll most likely own it by the time you're reading this. I've been anticipating Darksiders 2 all year, but I've also been happy to wait until the Wii U version, which I'm still happy to do (I've heard the PS3 version is extremely buggy). I wouldn't say I'm holding my breath for WayForward's take on Silent Hill (Book of Memories), but I certainly want to try it out...and have something to play on my Vita. Oddly enough, most of the Wii U launch library isn't a huge draw for me. Sure, I'll buy NSMB U, but it's not like I'm counting the days until its release. 2012 would've been a lot more interesting if so many of its games hadn't been pushed back to 2013.

Jonathan "Fluidity" Metts

As most RFN listeners will know, I play a variety of platforms now, and my most anticipated games of the fall reflect that. However, I also have a deep backlog (which I am AGGRESSIVELY clearing) and thus don't plan to buy very many games upon release date over the next few months. My gaming appetite is such that, even then, I'm left planning to buy several irresistible titles this fall. The must-have Wii U launch title is, unquestionably, New Super Mario Bros. U. Not only does it promise to be one of the most substantial exclusives for the new console, it is by far the most impressive and interesting game in the "New" series; I'm such an ardent Mario fan that even a whiff of actual give-a-**** from Nintendo is enough to rev the ol' motor skills. Zombi U is a much less assured quantity, but the early demos have been promising, and Ubisoft has had a lot of time to stick the landing on this one. Over on 3DS, it's not a great holiday season lineup, but I am looking forward to the first Paper Mario in several years, especially if the writing and battle pacing are a bit leaner and quicker, respectively, than we've previously seen. The other high-value target is Power of Illusion, and this is a testament to my adoration and respect for Dream Rift moreso than any penchant for Disney or Epicness or Mickey Mouse. There is eShop lovin' on the horizon as well, with a rather unlikely but most certainly welcome sequel to Fluidity dropping soon. Looking to the multi-platform side of things, I am very anxious for Assassin's Creed III to revive that franchise after a couple of utterly unappealing side games; this one may end up on my GamePad, if I can busy myself through its earlier release/hype/backlash cycle on other platforms. X-COM: Enemy Unknown looks strikingly addictive, just like its forebears, yet hopefully much less sadistic. Finally, I was charmed to no end by early demos of Hell Yeah, and this chainsawbunnyvania game will be downloaded with great haste as soon as the gatekeepers allow.

Andrew "Zombi" Brown

First and foremost on my list is, of course, New Super Mario Bros. U. A Nintendo console doesn't feel the same without at least one denizen of the Mushroom Kingdom to start things off with, and from what I've played in demos and seen in previews since then, it looks like the franchise is going strong as ever and it's bound to be a blast. If I had to pick one third party title, it'd probably be Zombi U. Horror games are a big deal to me and this looks like the first game to properly capture the atmosphere of the classic apocalyptic zombie films and provide a true meaning to the term "survival horror". Resident Evil 6 looks okay, but after 5 I'm not holding my breath...

Tyler "New Super Mario Bros." Ohlew

What am I most looking forward to this Fall? Why only New Super Mario Bros. U, of course! No, Neal's not behind me with a gun to my head with Reggie behind him doing the same. It's super exciting! As soon as you put slanty mountains in the background, you know you're in for a good time. Plus, NSMB2 didn't satiate my need for Mario...in fact, I can never be fulfilled! Runner-up would be Code of Princess. Although, it's not for the breasts. I'm more of a decomposing witch kind of guy.

Josh "Pokemon" Max

Now I'm gonna be a bit of an oddball here. One of my most anticipated games is Pokémon Black 2 and White 2. I know they've been out in Japan for a while now, but I've been really good and kept myself spoiler free! Aside from that? Nintendo Land. Oh dear sweet gods in Asgard, I am excited for that game. I have played nine of the twelve games and I still haven't had enough of it. With achievements to unlock and friendships to ruin, that game still has a lot more life in it for me. It's actually weird how excited I am for it. 

Tom "Assassin's Creed" Malina

It goes without saying that I'm greatly looking forward to the Mario double whammy, with Paper Mario: Sticker Star on 3DS and New Super Mario Bros. U on Wii U. The former looks to be breaking new ground for the portly plumber's RPG antics, building itself around a fascinating core mechanic. Meanwhile, the latter has me excited for some good old top-quality platforming action, but now with intriguing new modes and a big boost in production values. On the third-party front, I am eagerly awaiting a couple of Ubisoft titles (a surprise in itself!) First of all, every new detail I learn about ZombiU has me more and more interested. In addition, I'll be there day one for Assassin's Creed III. It will be my first foray into the popular series, but it would seem like a fine place to jump in. It's not often that I watch every trailer for a game and think for the entire duration of every one: "This looks so damn cool!" 

Nicholas "Sonic Racing" Bray

Seeing as though we are only two months away from the Wii U, my most anticipated first party games are quite simply, Nintendo Land and New Super Mario Bros U. I think Nintendo Land will be a lot of fun, especially in multiplayer. As for the new Mario game, well, what can I say? It's Mario and it looks to be a step up in terms of art assets and game design over New Super Mario Bros 2. For third party Wii U games, at the moment I am considering Sonic All-Stars Racing Transformed. I really liked the original on the 360 and had hoped that the Wii U would see a port. I am also contemplating picking up 007 Legends, as I think its looking pretty good, and I enjoyed Goldeneye 007 on the Wii quite a bit. The theme of Bond is also a bit more appealing to me than Call of Duty.

David "Rayman Legends" Egolf

This one's tough for me. I'm generally not one to get too hyped up about unreleased games, but this year is different. If you'd have asked me this a few months ago, I probably would've just shrugged my shoulders and said "Mists of Pandaria," completely ignoring the fact that it's only an expansion and not a full game. In the recent months, however, I've gotten far more hyped up about the Wii U launch. I've got New Super Mario Bros U, ZombiU, and Assassins Creed III preorderd (with my deluxe Wii U, so Nintendo Land as well.) I've seen more game footage for Rayman Legends, and I've been thinking about Darksiders II for a while now (for the PC, but more recently for the Wii U.) I can honestly say that I really am not sure which I'm most excited about.

Justin "Nintendo Land" Berube

On the console side of things I’m really looking forward to Nintendo Land and New Super Mario Bros. U. When I first saw Nintendo Land, I wasn’t impressed, but after playing it I knew that this game was going to be a sleeper hit for many. Super Mario is my favorite game series so just seeing the recent trailers for the Wii U title has me doing triple jumps. Handheld wise I really want Paper Mario: Sticker Star since I wasn’t a fan of Super Paper Mario and am happy to see the series return to its roots. Additionally it will be fun to see how the 3DS changes the Layton formula in Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask. Overall, Nintendo fans have a lot to look forward to over the next several months and these are only a few of the games I want to play.

Danny "Bravely Default" Bivens

Being in Japan definitely has its advantages when it comes to Nintendo releases on the handheld platform. Sure, I'm going to have to wait a few weeks longer than the rest of the world to pick up my Wii U, but there are definitely plenty of titles to keep me busy while waiting for it. Things start off early in Japan in October with the releases of both Bravely Default: Flying Fairy and Project X Zone. The hits just keep on rolling, too, with Animal Crossing, EX Troopers and Fantasy Life (an awesome action/RPG from Level 5) are set to hit store shelves before the end of the year. On top of that, I'm planning on picking up a Wii U on day one with New Super Mario Bros. U, ZombiU, possibly Nintendo Land, and Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate HD (I'm hoping to get the bundle with the Wii U Pro controller). To throw even more to the pile, as long as I can nab a Premium Wii U set, I'll have access to the Wii U beta for Dragon Quest X. Being a gamer with Japanese hardware can really pay off!

Patrick "Batman" Barnett

This fall is looking to be one of my most expensive holiday seasons yet. Between all the great 3DS content approaching (Professor Latyon / Paper Mario), there is a bountiful amount of eShop content to look forward to as well. The Wii U's launch is also promising plenty of great things to look forward to. I will be picking up Nintendo Land, New Super Mario Bros. U, Assassins Creed 3, and Batman: Arkham City on launch day. Although I am excited for all of these games, the one thing that I am really anticipating is the Wii U eShop. Toki Tori 2, Trine 2, Little Inferno, and Cloudberry Kingdom all look to be great games for this upcoming fall season.

[3DS XL owners will once again be able to play some of their games more comfortably.]

112

TalkBack / 3DS Circle Pad Pro Coming to Japan in November

« on: October 05, 2012, 10:58:25 PM »

3DS XL owners will once again be able to play some of their games more comfortably.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/32021

The Nintendo 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro will release in Japan on November 15 at a price of 1,500 yen ($19).

The Circle Pad Pro that was released for the original 3DS is not quite the right size for the newer iteration of the handheld. For games like Monster Hunter, the additional circle pad is a very helpful feature. The peripheral will be reaching store shelves soon so those in Japan that want to play specific games with two circle pads on their 3DS XL will be able to.

Currently there has been no official announcement of the XL's Circle Pad Pro making its way outside of Japan. However, with next year's release of Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate, we will likely see the device released in the West.

[The game is finally making its way to the downloadable store later this month.]

113

TalkBack / NightSky Landing on the 3DS eShop Later This Month

« on: October 03, 2012, 11:36:51 PM »

The game is finally making its way to the downloadable store later this month.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/31980

NightSky, developed by Nicalis, is scheduled to release on the 3DS eShop on October 25 for $9.99, according to Nintendo's website.

NightSky, which was released on the PC last year, has been in development on the 3DS for some time. The game was initially scheduled to be released earlier this year but was pushed back to later in the year.

NightSky is a physics-based puzzle platformer in which you control a ball that can roll around numerous stages. Check out some impressions of the game from E3 here.

[If you shop at certain stores, you may have a chance to get some exclusive Skylanders goodies.]

114

TalkBack / Skylanders Giants Exclusives Coming to Specific Retailers

« on: October 03, 2012, 11:18:30 PM »

If you shop at certain stores, you may have a chance to get some exclusive Skylanders goodies.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/31979

Several Skylanders Giants exclusives are heading to various retail stores, according to an anonymous source.

Each of the stores appear to have their own exclusive content. The following retailers will have this Skylanders content available:

• Toys R Us - Legendary 3-Pack and a Legendary Giant
• Target - Giant Granite Crusher Re-Paint
• Amazon - Gold Flameslinger
  
• GameStop - Battle Pack Re-Paint
• Walmart - Starter Kit w/ Glow-in-the-Dark Cynder and Glow-in-the-Dark Portal
• Sam's Club - Starter Kit w/ Glow-in-the-Dark Cynder and Glow-in-the-Dark Portal

These are the current retailer exclusive Skylanders merchandise we know of as of now.

Skylanders Giants is due out for Wii and 3DS on October 21. The Wii U version will be out for the system's launch on November 18.

[Box arts of three GBA games were uploaded to Nintendo's media servers, but they could just be in relation to the original releases.]

115

TalkBack / Nintendo Bringing Game Boy Advance to 3DS eShop?

« on: October 03, 2012, 11:35:44 AM »

Box arts of three GBA games were uploaded to Nintendo's media servers, but they could just be in relation to the original releases.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rumor/31974

Game Boy Advance games might be headed to the European eShop soon based on images uploaded to Nintendo's media server, as first reported by the German site 3DS-Online and confirmed by Nintendo World Report. However, the box arts were added to the Game Boy Advance pages for each game, meaning that this could just be baseless speculation.

On the server, box arts can be found for three games:

• Super Mario Ball
• Mario Golf Advance Tour
• Mario & Luigi Superstar Saga

With the recent announcement of a Nintendo Direct coming this Thursday, it is speculated that an official announcement will be made regarding the release of these games. However, the listing of the games may not refer to the 3DS and could just be something in relation to the GBA games themselves.

Check back with Nintendo World Report for any additional details.

[Expect to download this game on day one.]

116

TalkBack / Little Inferno Coming to Wii U eShop at Launch

« on: October 01, 2012, 05:25:33 PM »

Expect to download this game on day one.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/31948

Little Inferno, from the creators of World of Goo, is expected to release on the Wii U's eShop on the systems launch day.

Tomorrow Corporation, the game's creators, did say that this is dependent on them figuring out a few last details. They also announced that the first gameplay trailer would soon be available.

Seven eShop titles have been listed in North America as having November release dates, Little Inferno among them. We currently do not know whether the remaining six will come at launch day or later in November.

[If you buy certain retail games digitally, you can look forward to an added bonus.]

117

TalkBack / Donkey Kong: Original Edition Becomes Downloadable Reward for Select eShop Purchases

« on: October 01, 2012, 04:54:58 PM »

If you buy certain retail games digitally, you can look forward to an added bonus.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/31947

Purchasing select Nintendo download games on the Nintendo eShop can earn you Donkey Kong: Original Edition for free.

As reported earlier today, purchasing Art Academy: Lessons for Everyone and Crosswords Plus grants buyers the game for free. Nintendo has now added Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask, Paper Mario: Sticker Star, and Style Savvy to the list of games that work with the promotion.

To claim your reward you must ensure your Club Nintendo account is linked to your eShop account and then purchase the title from the eShop. After the title has been registered to your account Nintendo will email you a free code in three-to-four weeks.

[This game is not going viral.]

118

TalkBack / Escape the Virus: Shoot'em Up Review

« on: October 01, 2012, 03:15:42 PM »

This game is not going viral.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/31944

Escape the Virus: Shoot’em Up has some redeeming qualities, but also plenty to dislike. Between a poor presentation and an unappealing control system, this probably isn’t a game for you.

Shoot’em Up has two modes: Shooter and Territory. In Shooter, you attempt to stay alive as long as possible and set a high score (local only) while destroying viruses. In Territory, you attempt to stay alive while defending a black hole that appears on various portions of the screen. When you defend the area for long enough you gain points and your score multiplier increases. I emphasize the staying alive part because the game becomes mostly you trying to do that. After about a minute of play, the number of enemies on screen makes adequate movement near impossible, and in Territory mode, controlling the black hole becomes becomes difficult without the help of a power-up.

The way you move around the screen is also frustrating. Your character fires automatically, making your only goal staying out of trouble. Using either the directional pad or touch screen, you can move in any direction, though deciding which control method to use is tricky. With the touch screen you can control speed, but turning can prove an issue. Using the D-pad you can turn more accurately, but you move at one speed: fast. I favored the ability to slow down, but trying to rapidly change directions got me killed more than I would have liked.

The subtle inclusion of power-ups was a touch I found enjoyable. When one appears, your character’s eye looks in its direction. I found a thrill in trying to navigate my way through a horde of enemies to get the item. 

Escape the Virus: Shoot’em Up feels lackluster at best, and didn’t leave much of a positive impression on me. Those who embrace the controls may enjoy competing against themselves for a high score; others may dislike the game more with each attempt. If you are looking for something interesting on the DSiWare service, I would suggest looking elsewhere.

[You won't be blasting Metroids with your friends across the country.]

119

TalkBack / Nintendo Land Will Not Feature Simultaneous Online Multiplayer

« on: September 19, 2012, 10:23:05 PM »

You won't be blasting Metroids with your friends across the country.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/31804

Nintendo Land will not feature any kind of online multiplayer play, according to Bill Trinen during an interview with 1UP.

"It's not going to be played over the network," Trinen said when asked if the game would feature online play.

This doesn't necessarily mean there will not be online interactions, just no playing with friends who are not in the room. 

"For Wii U launch specifically," Trinen said, "one of the things that we want people to understand is that a network connection to a game can mean a lot of different things. It can mean online gaming, but it can also mean other unique ways to connect to other people. Miiverse is an important part of that. So for our first-party teams, particularly at launch, what they want to do is try to lead the way and show people different ways that you can use Miiverse in a meaningful way to connect the content to the Internet."

Trinen did say that he expects more first-party games to utilize online play further into the console's life cycle.

[It can be taken away from the system a good distance, but not overly far.]

120

TalkBack / Wii U GamePad's Wireless Range Discussed

« on: September 19, 2012, 10:20:35 PM »

It can be taken away from the system a good distance, but not overly far.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/31799

The Wii U GamePad has the best performance when within approximately 24 feet of the system, according to Bill Trinen in an interview with 1UP.

"They had a very precise number at one point. In meters it's like eight meters. In feet it's about 24 feet. That's for best performance," Trinen said when asked whether there was a limit to the controller's range.

Under good conditions, you will likely be able to push the system's wireless capabilities a little more, or take a dip in performance if you would like to sit a few extra feet away.

[This is why we didn't get a white or silver 3DS XL.]

121

TalkBack / Silver, White Colored Nintendo Handhelds Don't Sell Well in North America

« on: September 19, 2012, 12:19:11 PM »

This is why we didn't get a white or silver 3DS XL.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/31801

White and silver colored Nintendo handhelds don't generally sell well in North America, according to Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime.

Japan and Europe both got lighter colored systems at the 3DS XL's launch. North America, however, was left to choose from either red or blue. 

While speaking with IGN, Fils-Aime said "We have launched silver- and white-colored GBAs, DSes, DSis, and in our market they don't sell very well. So instead of approaching this lighter-colored product as a mass [product], we're going to look at the opportunity on a much more limited basis. You might see a limited-time offer with a white or silver 3DS XL, or we might colorize it slightly differently. But in terms of an ongoing SKU, the consumer has responded in our marketplace and said that, for a handheld gaming device from Nintendo, that kind of white or silver doesn't sell nearly as well as blue or red or even pink."

North America may eventually have a lighter colored 3DS, but only time will tell if North America gets a completely white system. 

[With ThunderCats on the DS almost here, what other licensed games impressed us.]

122

TalkBack / Licensed Nintendo DS Games That Don't Suck

« on: September 18, 2012, 08:09:39 PM »

With ThunderCats on the DS almost here, what other licensed games impressed us. 

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/feature/31765

With the upcoming release of Thundercats on the Nintendo DS, it is the perfect time to look back at the life of the DS and recognize licensed games that didn’t pale in comparison to their source material. Your favorite television show, movie, or character may have made the leap to your DS, and you might never have known it. What other licensed Nintendo DS games did you enjoy? If you have any favorites feel free to shout them out below.

One Piece: Gigant Battle
One Piece lived a short life on North American cable, but has been a long running manga and anime series in Japan. It is only fitting that such a story deserves such an amazing game. This sprite-based brawler caters to fans of the series through its familiar locales and extensive character roster. Along with the game’s single player campaign, there exists a leveling system, secret missions, and even shops to buy additional moves. One Piece: Gigant Battle was never brought to North America, but it did make its way to Europe. A sequel was released exclusively in Japan last fall and also received much praise. Check out our review of the game here.

Batman: The Brave and the Bold
The games in the Batman universe have been well-received over the past few years, with the most recent of which heading to the Wii U. Batman: The Brave and the Bold, developed by WayForward, is a fairly straightforward platforming brawler. The game features not only Batman, but plenty of other playable characters like Aquaman and Green Lantern. It may have been a short game, but its fun combat, great presentation, and bonus missions made it a licensed game that wasn’t half bad. Read our review.

Ben 10 Ultimate Alien: Cosmic Destruction
There are plenty of Cartoon Network shows that get their own video games. Ben 10 Ultimate Alien: Cosmic Destruction is a case where that video game is actually good. With the ability to transform into many different aliens, it gives the platforming elements of stages a greater variety. The game uses detailed 3D character art that looks great, and ultimately stands out over other Ben 10 DS games. Check out NWR' review here.

The Wizard of Oz: Beyond the Yellow Brick Road
Being such a well-known franchise, it might be surprising that there exists a Wizard of Oz RPG on the DS. The game features a completely original story that contains many of the key players from the original tale. The game is controlled completely via the touchscreen, and is done quite well. The world of Oz’s 3D environment looks great and detailed on the DS’s screen. The Wizard of Oz: Beyond the Yellow Brick Road proves that even a license like The Wizard of Oz can be turned into a great game. Check out our review.

Spider-Man: Web of Shadows
Spider-Man is another super hero that generally makes his way to stellar licensed games. Spider-Man: Web of Shadows features a Metroid-like style of exploration that provides non-linear gameplay, and a fantastic control scheme makes combat entertaining and more rewarding than a standard beat ‘em up style of gameplay. Read the review here.

[Nintendo can't wait until November 18, they just can't.]

123

TalkBack / Wii U Should Come Sooner Rather Than Later

« on: September 12, 2012, 11:06:37 PM »

Nintendo can't wait until November 18, they just can't.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/editorial/31659

The Wii U press conference is tomorrow morning, and the one big question that everybody is asking is still out there. “When is this thing going to come out?” It is highly speculated that a November 18 release date is the likely candidate for the console’s market debut. However, this may be too late for the system to succeed in what should be its busiest week on the market.

November 18 is the Sunday before Black Friday, a prime time to release new games, accessories, and, in most cases, consoles. However, with the Wii U this day may not make the most sense. Nintendo will be promoting the Wii U as they approach launch day, but will that be enough to grasp the everyday consumer’s attention? Nintendo fans like you and I are bound to pick up the console, but as it stands the casual gamer probably isn’t currently interested. 

Moving forward with the a name like Wii U creates quite a confusion. “Is this a new console or just an add-on to the Wii system?” When Jimmy Fallon brought Reggie onto his show to demo the Wii U, even he brought this issue to light. Fallon himself was confused as to what exactly the Wii U was. If somebody who is related to the media is confused, why would a simple passerby know the difference. 

In my mind there is one way Nintendo can get ahead of this confusion and succeed come Black Friday: release the console sooner, preferably in October. Word of mouth is a wonderful thing, and if people are talking it is bound to sell. If the console hits store shelves the week of Black Friday that gives people a week to hear about it, get impressions from people that own it, and make that decision on whether or not to buy. In the Wii U’s case, I do not believe that would be enough time. 

Although the week long strategy has worked in the past with consoles such as the Wii, I don’t think the Wii U has the same push behind it. I already mentioned the hurdle of confusion, but what about interest in the console itself? When the Wii was released motion gaming was still something that was foreign to many people. When something is brand new, you just have to have it. One of Wii U’s selling points is the Wii U GamePad. Although the GamePad will be utilized in different ways, to the everyday consumer it is just a tablet; something many people already have in their homes. This novelty won’t seize their attention nearly as well as motion gaming did back in 2006. 

Assuming the Wii U makes it to shelves in October, there are definitely some benefits. If Assassins Creed III is ready for the Wii U launch, it could find a home on the Wii U the same day as it does on the PS3/360. This at first does not seem like a huge deal, but it would significantly help the game’s sales on the system. Similarly a Black Ops 2 simultaneous release (assuming a Wii U version is in development) would greatly improve the chances of the game selling now instead of a month or two after it’s been launched on other platforms. 

In the long run the Wii U may succeed, but Nintendo definitely wants to come out of the gates strong. To do that they have to get the console ready for a sooner-than-November-18 launch. While I still believe that the most realistic scenario is that the console will launch in that November 18 time frame, I dream that Nintendo will have seen the pros of getting the console out of their warehouses and into consumer’s hands sooner rather than later.

[The 1984 beat-em-up's remake will be available to Wii U owners.]

124

TalkBack / Jordan Mechner's Karateka Remake Is Coming to Wii U 

« on: September 07, 2012, 11:10:15 PM »

The 1984 beat-em-up's remake will be available to Wii U owners. 

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/31587

A remake of Jordan Mechner's Karateka will be heading to the Wii U, according to the game's ESRB page.

It was previously known that a remake of the game was going to be released, but we did not know it was coming to Wii U. The game is being developed by Jordan Mechner, the creator of Prince of Persia and the developer of the original Karateka.

In the game you take on the role of a Japanese warrior attempting to rescue a princess. The ESRB page lists the game as rated T for teen. 

The Karateka remake has not been officially announced for Wii U.

[A secret ending attached to the iOS version of TWEWY teased a new game.]

125

TalkBack / The World Ends With You Sequel May Still be Coming

« on: September 07, 2012, 04:54:50 PM »

A secret ending attached to the iOS version of TWEWY teased a new game.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/31584

The iOS version of The World Ends With You included a secret ending that could possibly be interpreted as a teaser for a sequel to the Nintendo DS game.

The image, which you can view in this article, shows a new characters with the words "New 7 Days." Hopefully this is meant to infer a new game will be coming. If there is a sequel on the way, we do not know what platform it would be released on.

In a Famitsu interview, the game's director, Tatsuya Kando, said "We are in the middle of working on various things, but for now please enjoy Solo Remix."