World Nintendo News

Major Announcement Being Teased By Nier And DQX Producer

2011-09-29T18:53:00.000-07:00

Yosuke Saito is excited about Friday, and no, it's not necessarily because it's the start of the weekend.

NieR and Dragon Quest X producer took to his Twitter account to let off some of this excitement, saying, "Ooooo, I can't wait for this Friday." Unfortunately for him, that said post did not garner the expected reaction, forcing him to be a tad bit more specific as to the reasons for his excitement.

Posting another (this time, clearer) tweet, "There wasn't much of a reaction, so I'll try again. There will be a major notice on Friday? Probably."

That was definitely a better tease, making people sit up and notice that something is definitely cooking for this weekend. As to what this could be, of course it remains unknown, so we'll all just have to wait until Friday to find out.

Meanwhile, you should be glad to know that Rebecca Black is not invited to this soiree, whatever this may be.

This past month alone, we've been bombarded with major details about Dragon Quest X, such as the confirmation of the Wii U version, as well as the subscription fees.

Via [Andriasang]

View the original article here

The Legend Of Zelda: Four Swords Is Now Free (For Some)

2011-09-29T15:28:00.000-07:00

The last new “Legend of Zelda” game, not counting the recent remake of “Ocarina of Time” and the very hit or miss “Link’s Crossbow Training,” came out in 2009. The next game in the franchise, “Skyward Sword,” won’t debut until later this year. This leaves a pretty big gap in the Link-lover’s schedule, which Nintendo is more than happy to fill by giving every 3DS and DSi owner a free copy of the GameCube/GameBoy Advance classic, “Four Swords Adventures.”

The game boasts a completely new single-player experience in addition to the multiplayer elements that set it apart from other games in the series. Now, however, you won’t need to get three of your friends in the same room at the same time to enjoy the multiplayer experience, as you’ll be able to quest with your friends via the DSi and 3DS’s built-in Wi-Fi connection.

“Four Swords Adventures” is available on the Nintendo eShop as of today, and will stay there, free of charge, until February 20, 2012. If you pick it up now, you should be done with it in time for “Skyward Sword’s” November release – consider it a primer to put your brain back into Hyrule mode.

The story of “Four Swords” revolves around Link’s efforts to repair the damage caused by a dark version of himself, known as Shadow Link. Over the course of his adventure, Link (naturally) discovers that there are fouler forces at play, and must do everything in his power to set things right. Every level in the original game can be played by anywhere from one to four players – there are always four Links on-screen, but in the absence of human player the computer picks up the slack.

The one bummer about the re-release is that you lose the experience of four people sitting in a room together, hopelessly confused about what each person is supposed to be doing. Teamwork is much more interesting when you can yell at the person next to you.

Do you think that the Wi-Fi experience will be just as fun, or is the experience lost in translation?

Via Joystiq

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Paper Mario Developers Launch New 3DS eShop Title

2011-09-29T12:03:00.000-07:00

Intelligent Systems are set to launch Hiku-osu, a new game on the Nintendo 3DS eShop.

The developers are best known for Advance Wars, Paper Mario and Fire Emblem, three franchises that have helped them become one of Nintendo's biggest second-party developers.

According to Andriasang, Hiku-osu stars Maro, a young boy whose entire town has been covered in blocks. Gameplay involves moving the blocks to solve puzzles and create new pathways to move through the town.

The game also features stages with Nintendo-themed art, including the Mario background pictured above. More images are available on the game's official Japanese site.

Intelligent Systems is believed to currently be working on the new Paper Mario and Fire Emblem titles on 3DS. Hiku-osu is set to release on the Japanese eShop on October 5th. No North American release has been announced.

View the original article here

The Genius Of Super Mario 64

2011-09-29T08:38:00.001-07:00

It's hard to believe it's been 15 years already, but that's how old the Nintendo 64 will be this week. It was a decade and a half ago when the Big N's third console first went on sale in America, and that means, of course, that the system's launch titles are also celebrating the same anniversary -- like the 3D platforming masterpiece Super Mario 64.

Anyone who was around and paying the least bit of attention to gaming in the mid-'90s remembers their first time seeing this game in action. It was magical. Majestic. A truly mind-blowing shift, as gaming took its first real steps into the third dimension. Polygonal gaming had been done before, sure. But Super Mario 64, with its go-anywhere worlds and innovative controllable camera, made any previous attempt at 3D in the industry look archaic by comparison.

So let's celebrate this latest milestone, shall we? To honor the game that truly ushered in the 3D era with its awe-inspiring visuals and control, here are our top 10 picks for Super Mario 64's most sensational, most breathtaking, most absolutely genius moments.

All you had to do was flip on the power switch to be instantly greeted by one of Super Mario 64's most outstanding moments -- the now-classic "It's-a me, Mario!" title screen. Nintendo literally pushed Mario's face to the forefront for its latest machine, using the plumber's iconic image to showcase the 3D modeling and rendering power running under the system's hood. What made the moment even more memorable, though, was that it was fully interactive. If you held off on pressing Start and stuck around for a few seconds instead, a cursor would appear and allow you to manipulate Mario's features. Tweaking his mustache, squishing his hat and pulling out his nose like Pinocchio could keep anyone entertained for minutes on end -- and the game hadn't even started yet.

Once you were done mutating Mario into an out-of-proportion freak and finally pressed Start, the game's second major moment unfolded before you -- finding yourself standing in front of Peach's Castle. The simple courtyard with its climbable trees and the revelation that a camera-toting Lakitu would be documenting the adventure were both wonderful as you got your first chance to push the new Analog Stick and see Mario run around. The Castle then served as the hub world, another new concept, for the entire journey to come, and was filled with its own gameplay challenges and secret areas. The whole quest came full-circle back to this starting spot, too, when you collected all 120 stars -- because then you got to cannon-shoot yourself up to the castle's roof to visit with Yoshi.

The first real stage of Super Mario 64 is Bob-omb's Battlefield, and that certainly could have been a worthy pick for our list. But we're giving the early-game nostalgic nod instead to the second stage, Whomp's Fortress. This floating level introduced the hazard of dropping to your death off the side of the structure, a high-flying owl who'd carry you way up into the sky if you grabbed him by the talons and a new concrete-slab enemy species for the series, the Whomps -- a gigantic version of which resided at the top of the fortress waiting to flatten the pint-sized plumber in an epic boss battle encounter. Whomp's Fortress is such a great level and so well remembered, in fact, that Nintendo brought it back for an encore appearance just last year as the "Throwback Galaxy" in Super Mario Galaxy 2. J

ust upstairs from the Whomp's Fortress room in the Castle's main hall is a door that seemingly takes you nowhere important -- until you leap straight through a stained-glass window and end up discovering Princess Peach's Secret Slide. Jumping on and dashing down it at breakneck speed -- on either Mario's rump or stomach -- is one of Mario 64's most joyful, purely fun moments. The developers must've loved the sliding sequence enough to expand upon it a little later, too, as a second slide shows up for Mario to ride in the icy Cool, Cool Mountain level. That one's even more intense, too, since you have to race against a penguin and beat him to the bottom to earn a Star.

Rounding out the game's perfectly balanced set of introductory worlds is the watery Jolly Roger Bay, a tranquil cove where players got their feet wet with the game's swimming mechanics (if they didn't jump into the moat outside earlier). The sheer depth of the bay is impressive -- and tense, since Mario's air is constantly depleting as you swim further and further down. But the best moment happens when you finally approach the bottom and investigate the sunken ship sitting there -- an enormous eel attacks! The size and scope of the game's enemies excels yet again.

View the original article here

New Mario 3D Land Features Revealed

2011-09-28T13:14:00.000-07:00

Sample box art for Super Mario 3D Land released in Japan has revealed new features for the game.

As discovered by Andriasang, the art confirms that StreetPass will be supported, and that P Wings will be returning.

According to the box art, StreetPass will be used to exchange items with other players.

As for P Wings, they made their first appearance in Super Mario Bros. 3, but it isn't immediately clear what their function will be here. Since Nintendo has utilized a Super Guide feature in most recent Mario games, this could be a feature to allow players to skip a level if they become stuck, though that hasn't been confirmed.

Meanwhile, GameStop has announced the first pre-order bonus for Super Mario 3D Land. Customers who reserve the game in-store or online will receive this Tanooki Mario keychain while supplies last:

Super Mario 3D Land will hit stores on November 13.

View the original article here

Zelda Anniversary Takeover Day Announced

2011-09-28T09:58:00.001-07:00

The 25th year of The Legend of Zelda definitely has got all the fans up in a frenzy of excitement. Yet another event was announced in honor of the said occassion, this time courtesy of videogame festival GameCity.
The said event is the Zelda Anniversary Takeover Day, happening in Nottingham's Old Market Square, on October 29th, Saturday. Basically, the whole square will be magically transformed in a Hyrulean market, much to the definite delight of fans.
Among the many activities line up for this festivity are the make-your-own sword and shield booths, or the Ocarina lessons. If you just want to chill out, then you can head over to the LonLon Milk bar and have a sweet fix. If you complete all these, then you will be rewarded with pieces of the Triforce, and tehreby be able to complete the Hero's Quest.
Probably the best thing about all of these, however, is the fact that the upcoming The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword, will be available for hands-on play throughout the day. That's some three full weeks ahead of folks who are just going to have to wait till the game comes out to the market on the official date of November 18th.

Of course, there's plenty more to do there, as the Takeover Day is just a part of a bigger ongoing occassion, which is the GameCity festival. So be sure to make your way around and enjoy the sights, sounds, play, and more.
Nintendo has launched an official 25th Anniversary Website, where fans can take on a little nice trip down memory lane. If you can't come to Nottingham for the Takeover Day, then you can just head over to Los Angeles in October for the Zelda orchestra concert.
Via [Official Nintendo Magazine]

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The Best Of Nintendo's Castlevania

2011-09-28T09:49:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday, Simon Belmont! 25 years ago, on September 26, 1986, the first Castlevania game went on sale in Japan.
If you've been following our 25th anniversary coverage for the past few days here on IGN's Nintendo channels, you've seen us first go back to the franchise's beginnings by Revisiting Castlevania on the NES. We then moved into the modern era with Revisiting Castlevania on the DS. And today, to wrap up our look back on Konami's vampire-hunting brand we're presenting The Best of Nintendo's Castlevania.
These are the top picks -- the absolute essentials that you've got to experience to consider yourself a true Belmont fan. So read on, take our recommendations and scrape some cash together to make a couple of purchases from this list. It's the right thing to do for Simon's birthday.
Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse
Released September 1, 1990

Why It Made the List
All three of the series-starting titles that kicked off the Castlevania series on the NES deserve your time and attention, but if you've only got time and attention enough for one then go straight to the trilogy's 8-bit conclusion. Playing Castlevania III again today takes you right back to the franchise's beginnings to appreciate how the Belmonts first looked, controlled and fought against Dracula in Nintendo's first console era -- but this third installment also succeeds on more than just nostalgia with its multiple playable characters, branching paths and brutal difficulty that make it worth much more than just five bucks. You can download it through the Wii Virtual Console for that amount right now, and you should. Immediately.
Super Castlevania IV
Released December 1991

Why It Made the List
When Nintendo made the leap to the upgraded graphics of 16-bit technology, Castlevania was right there to help make the transition happen. Super Castlevania IV was a bigger, bolder vision of the 'Vania world that served as one of the early showpiece titles for the SNES -- and it innovated in gameplay as well as graphics, by introducing multi-directional whip attacks for our vampire-hunting hero. This one's on sale through the Wii Virtual Console as well, and you can make it your own for just eight bucks. Or, if you'd rather win a copy for free, that can be arranged as well.
Castlevania X: Rondo of Blood
Released October 1993

Why It Made the List
The legendary lost game of the series, Rondo of Blood originally didn't come to a Nintendo system in the States -- or any system for that matter. It stayed in Japan, unlocalized and untranslated for our audience, while America had to make due with a watered-down pseudo-port called Dracula X. The Wii's Virtual Console righted the injustice of the '90s just last year, though, finally giving us this game in America, in its original form, for a Nintendo platform. So it totally counts now. And you should totally buy it, for just nine bucks.
Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow
Released May 2003

Why It Made the List
After an ugly era through the late '90s when Konami first tried to transition Castlevania into 3D on the N64, traditional 2D 'Vania had a huge resurgence on the Game Boy Advance. The GBA launch title Circle of the Moon and its follow-up Harmony of Dissonance paved the way for one of the series' best portable adventures ever, Aria of Sorrow. Though Game Boy Advance games are not as easily available now as classics from other systems, it'd be worth your while to scour some local game shop bargain bins and track down this title -- its introduction of Soma Cruz, futuristic setting and innovative soul-capturing system helped make it one of the best Nintendo Castlevania titles ever.

Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia
Released October 2008
Why It Made the List
Finally, though Dawn of Sorrow and Portrait of Ruin are both excellent as well, forcing us to pick just one of Castlevania's modern DS sequels means we have to highlight the most recent. Order of Ecclesia is the current culmination of the combination of the Castlevania franchise and Nintendo's hardware platforms, a dark and difficult journey across the 17th century Transylvania countryside as a uniquely non-Belmont female fighter. It's coming up on its own three-year anniversary of release, but that's not so long ago that you shouldn't still be able to find it in stores. Fire up that DS one more time and join the Order. We command it.
And there you have it, Castlevania fans. Our top 5 picks for the best of the best among Nintendo's options for enjoying the series. You'll have to venture to other company's hardware to seek out some big hits like Symphony of the Night, but overall it's easy to be a very well-versed Castlevania aficionado by just owning a Wii and DS.
Now get crackin'! It's your duty as an honorary member of the Belmont family to spend your day today stalking Dracula with murderous intent. And feel free to make your own suggestions for other 'Vania options in the Comments below while you're lacing up your leather boots and spraying on your bat repellent -- we've just presented our picks, but we want to know yours too.
Happy Birthday, Simon!

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The Legend Of Zelda: Skyward Sword Japanese limited edition bundle revealed

2011-09-27T22:30:00.000-07:00

You didn't think Nintendo would leave Japan out of the limited edition loop, did you? After announcing the game's official release date, Nintendo has revealed the Japanese limited edition bundle for The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword.

Just like North America and Europe, gamers in the territory will get the option to puchase a limited edition variant that comes with a golden Wiimote. The golden Wiimote won't be available as a separate item in North America and Europe, so presumably the only way to get it in Japan is through the game's limited edition too.

Both the limited edition bundle and the standard edition will also include a 25th Anniversary Orchestra Special CD. Actually, in a sense, both the golden Wiimote bundle and the standard variant are limited editions. The gold packaging seen in the image above will only be used in the standard discs produced this year. Next year's production run will feature the standard white packaging sans the bonus CD, so if you count yourself as one of the hardcore then you better make sure you get your copy this year.

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword comes out in Japan on November 23. The game will hit Europe on November 18 and North America on November 20.

View the original article here

NBA 2K12 getting paid Legends Showcase DLC?

2011-09-27T19:05:00.001-07:00

Legendary NBA teams will be making an appearance in NBA 2K12, but developer 2K Sports has chosen not to allow players to use them in online matches. It seems that feature may be added post-launch, however.

Gaming news blog PastaPadre reports that someone who, for some reason or another, already has a copy of NBA 2K12 recently tweeted the image below. It shows a downloadable add-on called Legends Showcase which will allegedly let players "play online with the Legendary Teams from NBA's Greatest." It also lists some of the online modes Legendary players can compete in.

The NBA lockout has kept 2K Sports from updating the player rosters in NBA 2K12. It has also forced 2K to limit promotion for the game since the National Basketball Players Association has forbidden publisher Take-Two Interactive from marketing their likeness during the lockout. That could end up costing them some money if it causes gamers to forgo buying the game. The image gives no indication that the Legends Showcase will be a paid download but PastaPadre reports that it is. If this turns out to be true then it may just be 2K's way of trying to make sure they recoup their expenses somehow.

Via [PastaPadre]

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Mario On The Wii

2011-09-27T14:30:00.000-07:00

Super Mario Brothers Overview

Author: Mike Kim
Super Mario Brothers
Super mario brothers is available from the Nintendo wii. This game provides endless entertainment for you and your kid. There are a bunch of single player grand prix to beat, multiplayer modes, and online matches.
Super mario brothers is available from the Nintendo wii. This game provides endless entertainment for you and your kid. There are a bunch of single player grand prix to beat, multiplayer modes, and online matches.

If your kid likes mario and racing games, then consider getting Super mario brothers. Available on the Nintendo wii, this game will provide endless entertainment for you and your kid. There are a bunch of single player grand prix to beat, multiplayer modes, and online matches.
The game comes with a plastic driving wheel for the wii controller. The cool thing about this is that it can be used to steer the karts.
It takes some time to get used to but once you get the hang of it, racing becomes even more immersive. The wheel is very responsive so even the slightest turn will make the kart steer in the intended direction.
The Game cube controller can also be used for the game if your kid prefers it. There is a good amount of unlockable stuff too. Additional characters, karts, and bikes are unlocked if the grand prix are beaten with a certain rating.
Depending on how you fare in the race, you are awarded stars. Certain characters and karts require a specific amount of stars. This can be frustrating because a small mistake such as falling into a pit can cost you stars.
There are many race tracks in mario kart wii. Some are new and others are classics from older mario kart games such as super mario kart for the super nintendo, mario kart 64, and mario kart double dash.
After your kid is done with single player, you can enjoy the multiplayer and online portions of the game. There are battle modes and racing modes for multiplayer and these are great for the entire family to enjoy. In battle mode, the objective is to pop the opponents balloons and the last team standing wins.
Versus mode is basically a racing game where players try to get first place. Online mode requires an internet connection and is extremely challenging. In online mode you are racing against other players around the world and they can put up a good race. You are awarded points for winning races and the more you have, you will be racing with other player with similar abilities. Mario kart wii is a must have for any kid who loves mario and racing.
Super Mario Galaxy 2
Super Mario Galaxy 2 for the Nintendo Wii offers exciting levels of fun. It is a sequel. This time there are more power up including fire mario, cloud mario, and rock mario. Also new is Yoshi the dinosaur.

There are six new world to play through, with each one being more difficult than the last. The story of the game is always the same.
Bowser kidnaps princess Peach and Mario must rescue her. The game plays similarly to the previous game. The platforming and boss battles are still there.
The level design is even more wackier and unpredictable. This game does not feel like a rehash of the first one. Many new game play mechanics have been added. One of them is the ability to drill through planets.
This allows Mario to access puzzles inside each planet. Yoshi also adds new abilities for Mario. Tongue grabbing will let Mario swing across gaps.
Fluttering can make Mario jump a bit higher, and new powerups for Yoshi adds more depth to the game. Yoshi can eat a balloon fruit and inflate, allowing Mario to reach new heights.
There is a good mixture of 2D and 3D platforming. It improves on its predecessor and any kid who is a Mario fan must have it.
Super Smash Bros Brawl
Super Smash Bros Brawl is highly recommended if your kid is a Super Mario brothers fan, then you should definitely get Super Smash Bros Brawl. Available on the Nintendo Wii, this is the third installment of the Super Smash Bros series.

Many of the original characters such as Mario, Lugi, Peach, Bowser, Donkey Kong, Marth, Kirby, etc... return. There are also a bunch of new playable characters such as Pit from Kid Icarus, Zero suit Samus, King Diddy, New Pokemon, Solid Snake from metal gear solid, and many more.
A new single player campaign starring all of the characters is quite fun to play. It features cinematics and allows your kid to unlock new characters along the way. Another notable feature is the online multiplayer mode.
However, there are many flaws the prevent this from being enjoyable. Match making takes forever and even if you manage to join a match, there tends to be noticeable lag. The lag slows down the game to a halt.
Online mode was obviously included as an afterthought. The strong point of this game is the local multiplayer mode. Your kid can have a blast with the family or friends. Up to four players can duke it out on the many stages.
There are some new items to use in a brawl and the most powerful one is the smash ball. If a player manages to hit it, their character gets to use their special move temporarily and wreak havoc on opponents.
Lastly, there are various mini games that allow your kid to unlock trophies. These mini games range from baseball home run games to simple arcade shooting games.
Overall, this game is a great improvement upon the previous games. It would have been better if the online lag was minimal, but it excels as a group party game. This game is a must have for all Super Mario Brothers fans.

Mario Brothers All Stars Limited
All Stars Limited edition by Super Mario Brothers for the Wii has been released but is this game bundle worthy of its price tag? The game comes with the following features:
1 super mario brothers, super mario brothers: the lost levels, super mario bros.
2 and super mario bros.
3 It also includes a CD soundtrack that features sound effects from various mario games.
Lastly, you get a 32 page mario history booklet that contains interviews and concept art. Other than this, the game offers nothing new from the original super mario all stars released in 1993. All of the games themselves are exactly the same as the original 1993 version. It would have been a much better offering if it also came with super mario world, mario kart, and yoshi\'s island.
However, if your kid is a big mario fan, it would make a nice gift. Your kid will appreciate the little extras that are included.
If you want to get your kid super mario brothers all stars without the extras, I would recommend getting the digital version from the Wii shop. I do not think the CD soundtrack and mario history booklet is worth the extra cost.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/video-games-articles/super-mario-brothers-overview-4499965.html
About the Author
Mike Kim is the founder of Best-Kids-Fun.com. He provides fun and educational information on resources for kids recipes, easy crafts for kids, kids videos, kids game, kids poems, and more.

Robin trailer For Batman: Arkham City 'Imminent', no more character reveals

2011-09-27T11:46:00.000-07:00

Rocksteady's done coming out with new characters for Batman: Arkham City. The developer has confirmed that they won't be announcing any more new folks joining in on the game, although they did say that you can all look forward to a trailer of Robin in action sometime soon.

Sarah May Wellock, Arkham City's Community Manager, wrote: "There are NO more character reveals!!! Robin trailer is imminent through the relevant trailers."

As to when that Robin trailer will be coming out, we've yet to know for certain. From the sound of it, though, it shouldn't be for too long.

It's likely that it will look something like the one that came out for The Joker, though. Batman: Arkham City had its release dates confirmed the other day - October 18th for US, 19th for Australia, and 21st for Europe - with the PC version taking a definitive blow with a delay.

Via [Arkham City]

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Aliens: Colonial Marines is 'more crafted' than Left 4 Dead

2011-09-27T08:10:00.001-07:00

Randy Pitchford is selling Aliens: Colonial Marines to the hilt, even comparing it to the blockbuster zombie game of Valve, Left 4 Dead, saying that their game is definitely "more crafted" than that one.

Said Pitchford, "I think parts of it feel a little like [that], but Left 4 Dead was very dependent upon the game system. There wasn't any real story telling or character development or anything at all to do in Left 4 Dead other than to run to the exit and not die along the way.

Aliens: Colonial Marines is a much more crafted and cinematic experience. It also has a deeper meta-game where there is some value to gaining experience and growing the capability of your character overtime.

Left 4 Dead is a great thing to think about when considering how it works as both a single player and co-operative game where you're playing against hordes of fearless, death-dealing enemies. But it's not really a good example when you think about a crafted, narrative experience or when you think about how meta-growth game can make playing your favourite missions again really fun and compelling."

In defense of Left 4 Dead (I am a huge fan, obviously), I don't think it ever promised a meta-experience of gaming. As far as its basic plot is concerned, I think it delivered on what it set out to do: put you in the position of someone out to survive at all costs. And really, when you have a horde of zombies after you, you don't have much time to philosophize about character growth. You just shoot away. It's the basic tenet of survival, and one that L4D unfrivolously delivers.

But anyway, if Aliens: Colonial Marines is "more crafty", then it should be a fun game to look out for.

The game is also promising to answer questions about the movie, so if you're looking forward to that, then it really should be a must-buy/ must-play title. Gearbox also takes much pride in the fact that Fox has given them a lot of freedom with the game.

Via [360Magazine]

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Sony Unsure Of Nintendo's 3D Strategy

2011-09-27T02:15:00.000-07:00

A Sony rep still thinks gamers would prefer to wear glasses to view 3D games.

"People are projecting their issues with other media onto gaming. When you play a game, you're not looking away from the TV like watching a film," said Sony's Simon Benson.

Sony has no plans currently to add 3D support to their upcoming handheld, the PlayStation Vita. PS3, on the other hand, has several games featuring 3D through the use of glasses.

"Gamers are also more comfy with peripherals compared to the average consumer. Maybe people could be looking at other ideas in the future, like a headset that gives you both 3D glasses and fully 3D audio to deepen the immersive experience," he continued.

Do you think that Sony should change the way they think about 3D?

Check out the latest info on Vita's release date.

via Gamasutra

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Layton Vs. Ace Attorney Features Actors From Ace Attorney Movie

2011-09-26T23:08:00.000-07:00

The upcoming Layton Vs. Ace Attorney game will be voiced by the same actors charged with bringing Nick and Maya to life on the Japanese silver screen.

Andriasang reports that the upcoming Layton Vs. Ace Attorney game -- which still doesn't have a U.S. release date -- will feature voice work from the actors confirmed to be performing in the Ace Attorney movie.
Layton and Luke will be voiced by their usual Japanese voice actors Yo Oizumi and Maki Horikita. Phoenix Wright and Maya Fey will be voiced by Hiroki Narimiya and Mirei Kiritani.
A special TGS presentation regarding the game is set for tomorrow at 12:30 (Japanese time). Many of us here at GamePro are hoping for news that the game will receive a localization and head to our shores, in which case it'll need some American voice actors. Who would you put in the leading roles?

View the original article here

Mario Bros. Plumbing Gets A Classy T-Shirt

2011-09-26T20:32:00.000-07:00

Nothing helps simultaneously hide and announce your nerdiness like an understated gaming t-shirt.

It's easy to make a video game t-shirt that just has a main character emblazoned on the front, but classy designs like this are the one that always make me take notice. Created by Wirestyle, this is a timeless print that proves your nerd cred, without turning you into a pariah.

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Vigil On Darksiders II Wii U: Amazing

2011-09-26T17:25:00.000-07:00

Darksiders II producer Ryan Stefanelli has plenty of praise for the Wii U version of the title.

"Just to have something on the touch screen, we put the inventory and map systems on the controller - and even that small thing makes a big difference. When you collect a new piece of loot, you just look down to see if you want it, and can equip it instantly," Stefanelli said of Wii U's touchscreen controller. "I can't say for sure if that'll be in the final cut, but it's really cool that the gameplay experience never has to be broken up by changing out equipment."

Stefanelli noted some of the advantages to using the touchscreen in the game, including being able to use it for hot keys when switching between weapons and equipment.

"Our one and only goal once we got the Wii U hardware was to get Darksiders II running on it. We didn't even have running the game on the touch screen on our 'to do' list. but once we got it running, we just fooled around with getting it on the touch screen as a lark," Stefanelli said. "It took all of five minutes and two lines of code, and boom! - there was the entire game running on the controller. Amazing."

via CVG

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Bethesda: Wii U Support, Skyrim Port Possible

2011-09-26T14:49:00.000-07:00

Will Bethesda be developing on Wii U? What about a Skyrim port to the system? We have all the details you need right here.

"It's definitely a possibility for the future. We'll look at any platform that will support that games we're trying to make, but that's the key thing - the console has to support the game as it is designed," said Bethesda's Pete Hines.

Several developers, including Epic and id Software, have already expressed interest in the system. Vigil went as far as to say that the console is "amazing."

"The more changes we have to make to a game the less and less palatable it becomes because making a game is an enormous process. Just doing 360, PS3 and PC - I don't think people understand the amount of work that goes into that. All of the localisation you have to do... all of the testing you have to do... on every platform in every language... It's a pretty huge undertaking," Hines continued.

When asked of the possibilities of a Wii U version of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, a separate Bethesda rep didn't rule it out.

"We'll see. It's definitely a possibility," said Bethesda's VP of PR.

via ONM

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Japanese charts: 3DS regains lead

2011-09-26T11:42:00.000-07:00

The 3DS is back again at number one in the Japanese hardware charts for the week covering September 12th to 18th. Nintendo's lastest handheld manage to move 58,837 units for the week, up from last weeks 49,076. The PS3 slide down one spot to number two, with the PSP taking the third spot.

Here's Media Create's top 10 hardware sales chart for the week ending September 18th, with last week's sales in parentheses::

3DS: 58,837 (49,076)PS3: 36,061 (64,786)PSP: 25,122 (25,391)Wii: 15,406 (10,743)DSi LL: 2,869 (2,882)DSi: 2,234 (1,957)PS2: 1,317 (1,386)Xbox 360: 1,295 (1,219)DS Lite: 78 (51)PSP Go: 7 (13)
On the software side, Square Enix's Dragon Quest Collection debuted on top of the charts, selling 263,398, enough to push back last week's number one, Tales of Xillia, down one spot to number two.

Here's Media Create's all platforms sales chart for the week ending September 18th, with last week's sales in parentheses:

[WII] Dragon Quest Collection (Square Enix, 09.15.11): 263,398 NEW![PS3] Tales of Xillia (Namco Bandai, 09.08.11): 47,297 (572,902)[PS3] Resident Evil Revival Selection (Capcom, TBA): 17,614 (111,382)[WII] Wii Sports Resort (Nintendo, 06.25.09): 15,109 (552,116)[WII] Everyone's Rhythm Heaven (Nintendo, 07.21.11): 14,647 (452,560)[PS3] Monster Hunter Portable 3rd HD Ver. (Capcom, 08.25.11): 13,230 (374,013)[NDS] Atsumete! Kirby (Nintendo, 08.04.11): 10,888 (219,156)[N3DS] The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of time 3D (Nintendo, 06.16.11): 10,504 (380,138)[PSP] Grand Knights History (MMV, 09.01.11): 10,078 (94,419)[PSP] Monster Hunter Diary Poka Poka Felyne Village G (Capcom, 08.10.11): 9,378 (192,720)[PSP] Hot Shots Golf 5 PlayStation 3 the Best (SCEJ, 09.08.11): 8,454 (20,812)[N3DS] Super Pokemon Rumble (Pokemon, 08.11.11): 7,698 (161,645)[PSP] Gekka Ryouran Romance (Idea Factory, 09.15.11): 6,948 NEW![PS3] Dunamis 15 (5pb., 09.15.11): 5,970 NEW![WII] Super Sentai Battle Ranger Cross (Namco Bandai, AUT 11): 5,739 (22,196)[PSP] Uta no Prince Sama Repeat (Broccoli, 08.11.11): 5,659 (73,285)[NDS] Pokemon Black & White (Pokemon, 09.18.10): 5,202 (5,308,519)[PS3] Resistance 3 (SCEJ, 09.08.11): 5,136 (25,478)[PS3] Call of Duty Black Ops Dubbed Version Budget Version (Square Enix, 09.01.11): 5,077 (20,414)[NDS] Winnie-the-Pooh 100 Acre Forest Cooking Book (Disney Interactive Studio, 09.15.11): 5,064 NEW!.

Via [Media Create]

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Upcoming Games

2011-09-26T09:06:00.000-07:00

Check out the list of new games that will soon be dropping in your local game shops as well as your favorite digital marketplace as the last week of September rolls out.

Coming down for the week of September 25th to October 1st are a slew of new sequels, some revamp classics and new expansions. Highlights for the week includes the long awaited HD release of Resident Evil Code Veronica and the epic ICO and Shadow of the Colossus Collection. For die hard football (or soccer) fans, FIFA 12 and Pro Evolution Soccer 2012 will also be available along with the latest video game adaptation of the X-Men comic book series.

333,000 Games
PC - September 27, 2011ESRB - EveryoneViva Media

Airline Tycoon 2
PC - September 27, 2011ESRB - TeenKalypso Media

Air Conflicts
PC - September 27, 2011ESRB - TeenKalypso Media

Atelier Totori: The Adventurer of Arland
PS3 - September 27, 2011ESRB - TeenTecmo Koei

Big Foot: King of Crush
Wii - September 27, 2011ESRB - EveryoneZoo Games

Cabela's Big Game Hunter 2012
PS3, Xbox 360, Wii - September 27, 2011ESRB - TeenActivision

Child of Eden
PS3 - September 27, 2011ESRB - EveryoneUbisoft

Driver: San Francisco
PC - September 27, 2011ESRB - TeenUbisoft

Dungeons: the Dark Lord
PC - September 27, 2011ESRB - TeenKalypso Media

Ferrari: The Race Experience
Wii - September 27, 2011ESRB - EveryoneConspiracy

Gem Smashers
Wii - September 27, 2011ESRB - EveryoneSVG Distribution

FIFA Soccer 12
PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, 3DS, PSP - September 27, 2011ESRB - EveryoneElectronic Arts

ICO and Shadow of the Colossus Collection
PS3 - September 27, 2011ESRB - TeenSony

Janes Advance Strike Fighters
PC - September 27, 2011ESRB - TeenMaximum Family Games

John Deere
Wii - September 27, 2011ESRB - EveryoneZoo Games

Maximum Racing: Super Karts
Wii - September 27, 2011ESRB - EveryoneMaximum Family Games

Oblivion Game of the Year Edition
Xbox 360, PC - September 27, 2011ESRB - MatureBethesda Softworks

Pro Evolution Soccer 2012
PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, 3DS, PSP - September 27, 2011ESRB - EveryoneKonami

Resident Evil Code: Veronica X HD
PS, Xbox 360 - September 27, 2011ESRB - MatureCapcom

Sid Meier's Civilization V: Game of the Year Edition
PC - September 27, 2011ESRB - Everyone2K Games

Solatorobo: Red the Hunter
DS - September 27, 2011ESRB - EveryoneXseed

Star Ruler
PC - September 27, 2011ESRB - EveryoneVisco Entertainment

Summoner War
3DS - September 27, 2011ESRB - TeenZoo Games

The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard
PC - September 27, 2011ESRB - TeenTurbine

X-Men: Destiny
PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, DS - September 27, 2011ESRB - TeenActivision
Some pretty exciting titles there folks that will keep you occupied for the whole week. Base on the lineup above, which games are on your target list?

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Zen Pinball Coming To 3DS

2011-09-26T05:59:00.000-07:00

Zen Studios, masters of the virtual pinball art, are bringing their talents to Nintendo's handheld this fall.

Zen Studios is bringing its Zen Pinball series to the Nintendo 3DS via the eShop this fall. The game will offer hot seat multiplayer, online leaderboards and four different tables on which to flip your balls into various receptacles.
Earth Defense is a sci-fi themed table that pits the player against invading aliens in an attempt to defend Earth. Shamen sees players masting the art of nature sorcery. Excalibur is an Arthurian-themed table. And Eldorado sees players uncovering the mysteries of ancient civilization by flipping balls into holes.
The game's release on 3DS will mean that the developer has at least one pinball game on each of the "big three's" platforms -- Pinball FX and Pinball FX 2 on Microsoft's 360, Zen Pinball and Marvel Pinball on Sony's PS3 and now Zen Pinball 3D on Nintendo's 3DS. A version of Zen Pinball is also available for Nvidia Tegra-equipped Android smartphones and tablets.
"Releasing Zen Pinball on a Nintendo platform marks an amazing milestone for Zen Studios," said Mel Kirk, VP of marketing and PR. "We are really excited for Nintendo fans to experience one of our greatest passions -- the timeless game of pinball. Playing pinball in 3D is killer. It's like the game has been totally reinvented, and a whole new world opens up right before your eyes."
Zen Pinball 3D will release via the eShop this fall for an as yet undisclosed price.

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Tetris is Back Again, This Time on 3DS

2011-09-26T03:23:00.000-07:00

Unsurprisingly, Nintendo's latest handheld is set to receive its own special version of Tetris, featuring more game modes than ever before.

One of the best things about Tetris on the original Game Boy was its simplicity and purity. You simply played Tetris, and you didn't have to worry about time limits, powerups, "holding" pieces -- it was just you against the ever-accelerating storm of falling blocks, or occasionally a friend.
Subsequent versions of Tetris over the years have added more and more in the way of different game modes. Some of these have been quite fun, and some more friendly to short play sessions, but I certainly always find myself returning to the traditional "Marathon" mode before long.
Enter Tetris Axis for 3DS, which offers 20 game modes, thankfully including Marathon. Alongside this, you can battle against the computer, compete against up to seven friends in a selection of "party game modes," play with powerups in Fever mode and even play Tetris in augmented reality using the 3DS' cameras.
Tetris Axis also offers online play for up to 8 players and SpotPass functionality, allowing players to acquire new items for Fever mode.
The game, developed by Hudson Soft and published by Nintendo, is set to launch on 3DS on October 2. Find out more here.

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The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Anniversary Edition Available for Free from September 28

2011-09-26T00:16:00.000-07:00

Good news for DS and 3DS owners as Shigeru Miyamoto confirms that an enhanced edition of The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords will be available for free very soon.

The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords was a side dish to the excellent Game Boy Advance version of A Link to the Past, but it offered some entertaining multiplayer challenges in its own right. One drawback of it, however, was the fact that you couldn't play it by yourself, making those who didn't have GBA-toting friends living nearby miss out on a fun experience.
With the upcoming free rerelease of the game for DSiWare, Nintendo is fixing that particular problem by adding a new single player mode in which players control two Links. On top of this, new levels have been added to the existing game content, allowing players to unlock new skills for their Link. Beating the challenging Hero's Trial area will unlock the Hurricane Spin move, while Realm of Memories is made up of locations from past Zelda titles. Completing the latter unlocks the Master Sword for use.
Nintendo hasn't specifically said that the game will offer online play -- the wording they use is that "two to four players wirelessly connect their Nintendo DSi, Nintendo DSi XL or Nintendo 3DS systems," suggesting that it may be local wireless play only. At least you won't need to remember where you put your Link Cables, however.
The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Anniversary Edition will be available for a limited time only, starting on September 28 and remaining available until February 20 of 2012. It'll be completely free for everyone able to access DSiWare.

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Preparing For The Wii U

2011-09-26T00:06:00.000-07:00

The moment these games enter the market, they are expected to disappear from the racks. For these fiends associated with fear-inducing, intense game play, Darksiders 2 shall be certain to prove acceptable. For people expecting to creep stealthily through war-torn and enemy-filled roadways and undergrounds, Metro: Last Light definitely will leave you in shock. And with anyone else who's seeking to be the commander of all that's cute and obedient, or the commander of all that is shell-shocked and sleepless, Pikmin 3 and Battlefield will deliver players the chance to experience it all.

Battlefield commands bravery. It needs stratagem. It thirsts for the blood which runs cold, skin that nourishes off shrapnel, and pinpoint precision. Players need to stock up on the heavy artillery, commit a burst into the frontlines, dash for cover, and manage to nevertheless wear a grin that's hungry for even more towards the end of the day.

Metro: Last Light absorbs the participant into a surrounding so enshrouded in darkness, so coated in weird, so surrounded in absolute, skin-tingling intensity that one can hardly ever expect to look at the sunlight again. Or simply, never need to see the light again.

Darksiders 2 applies the war-fanatic in the middle of one of the most larger-than-life struggles of all time-the one involving heaven and hell. Along with a war of such divine proportions, a fight up against the underworld, immortal and immoral creatures, it can help playing as the greatest feared troops of all time-Death.

Pikmin 3 provides a formula that is one part sweet, one part soft and cuddly, and one part colorful-a formula which in conclusion, equates to about the most addicting and amazing titles heading to the Wii U. Being in command will probably have never been so sweet.

The urges regarding these types of Wii U video games are usually so nasty they should make a Nintendo patch, or even a pack of gum. Allow me to share some of the most tantalizing, potential-packed video game titles to hit the Wii U this fall. It's a blend of their own personal storylines, characters, and also game play that gives each of these game titles some of the most highly regarded and recognized video games on the way. Not just that, although the type of game play in every game claims to pack a punch with the state of the art Wii U controller, performing together along with the tireless forearms and thumbs of each gamer to generate a entirely, addictive game playing adventure.

Wii U Video game titles guarantees complete and up-to-date facts and techniques and explanations on all the Wii U games that will be on its way to the video games industry.

Is This the Title for the Next Super Smash Bros.?

2011-09-25T13:03:00.001-07:00

A leaked document reveals what may be the title of the next Wii U installment in the popular fighting franchise.

The image above (courtesy of Reddit user Hector_Kur) reveals what may be the name and logo of the next Super Smash Bros. game: Universe.

Nintendo refuses to comment on rumor and speculation, and the name has yet to be officially revealed, but the document looks pretty legit, even if the writing makes too small to make out any other details.

While hardcore fighting fans may not care much about the series (even here in the GamePro office), it's still my favorite fighting franchise. So, even if this isn't the real name, the game itself has to come out sometime, and it would be a great Wii U launch title. But what new characters would you like to see?

Personally, after going through so many iterations, I don't know who else I'd want to see from Nintendo's main roster (though I wish they'd stop removing characters I do like, like Mewtwo), but if we can bring in characters from other franchises, how about Professor Layton?

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Nintendo's

2011-09-25T07:00:00.001-07:00

The Wii U is Nintendo's upcoming gaming console which can be a successor of Nintendo Wii gaming console. This gaming console is scheduled to launch the subsequent year probably close to June. It promises HD visuals that is supposed to exceed those of the Sony's PS3 along with Microsoft's Xbox 360. Also, the main selling point has to be the unique controller. However, now that Sony announced that the upcoming Playstation Vita (PS Vita) are also able to provide as a controller pertaining to the PS3, it seems that the Nintendo Wii U has received its direct rival even before being released. In addition, Sony has been presenting the superiority with the visuals and images of PS Vita. It looks like Nintendo has got to rethink their system. After all, it's a negative idea to only target a console's controller, which is exactly what Nintendo is doing so far for its upcoming console. Now that the PS Vita will double as a controller for the PS3 as well as an independent handheld console, what will Nintendo's upcoming strategy be?