Wii Shop Thread: ***FINAL FANTASY 3 IS OUT ON THE VC***

[doubledown]

Anyone get Excitebike?....curious for reviews.

[Justin42]

Seems like the most hyped game no one buys immediately waiting to make sure they didn't screw it up. ;) I haven't bought anything from Wii Shop in over a year so I'm tempted to buy it if nothing else to use up one of the Wii Points cards I have.

[doubledown]

Yeah, I have 3700 points in my Wii Shop account. I basically play the Wii once a month or so.

[datura]

Anyone get Excitebike?....curious for reviews.

I didn't get it yet because, like you, I was waiting on reviews.

IGN gave it a 7.9 and basically said its strength/downfall is how true it is to the original. They also said there is no local multiplayer, which they felt was a no brainer.

For $10, and I don't have the NES version, with 1800 points burning a hole in my pocket, I will probably pick this up in the near future.

[flameofdoom666]

Seems like the most hyped game no one buys immediately waiting to make sure they didn't screw it up. ;) I haven't bought anything from Wii Shop in over a year so I'm tempted to buy it if nothing else to use up one of the Wii Points cards I have.

Buy Lost Winds: Winters of Melodias.. NOW!

[pete5883]

So what's this Excitebike game? Is it a spinoff of Excite Truck? 8-)

http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=103478
The US version of Bit.Trip Beat has been updated. It sounds like they fixed that bug where you had to get a high score to save your progress.
Nice.

[crunchewy]

I'm definitely going to get Excitebike, but I am pretty disappointed that there is no local multiplayer. I'm not worried about the motion controls - the motion controls in Excitebots are awesome, so I'm sure they've done it right for this too. In any case we have the option. Just really wish it had local multiplayer. Oh well.

[flameofdoom666]

I never had excite bike for the NES, so I have no fond memories of it. With that said, would I like Excitebike? Someone told me that it is a game heavily based off of nostalgia.

I would love an honest, and in depth opinion.

[ProfWho]

I bought it last night and played it for about a half hour. It is what it is. It is excite bike with more tracks and features. Really, nostalgia is good, but it only gets you so far. Excitebike was and still is great, because it has challenging and addictive gameplay. It is so simple, yet there is a lot of depth to playing it well. I didn't try motion, because I have always played it with the old NES controller so I cannot comment on that.

I think that the multiplayer was pretty good, I only wish it had a chat function. I played with some people online and the races were smooth with no lag.

Is it worth $10? In my opinion yes, yes it is. Is it the first game I would buy if you had limit resources? No, I would put Lost Wind 2 there, followed by You, Me, and the Cube. Since I still had about $190 in Wii points thanks to pepsi though I didn't hesitate on downloading.

I will be posting my code later tonight if anyone wants to post thier's.

[doubledown]

I picked up Excitebike also. I thought it was pretty good. It basically plays just like the old Excitebike. I used the "classic" control scheme also...no tilt crap.

One BIG disappointment is that you can ONLY use the Wii Controller....not the Classic controller....I was bummed out by that, but I knew that when I downloaded it.

I won my first two games online also....the second one by a full 2 seconds....I still am an Excitebike master....hahaha...j/k

[ProfWho]

If anyone wants to add me to their excitebike friends list my code is 3352 4128 1140

[flameofdoom666]

I bought it last night and played it for about a half hour. It is what it is. It is excite bike with more tracks and features. Really, nostalgia is good, but it only gets you so far. Excitebike was and still is great, because it has challenging and addictive gameplay. It is so simple, yet there is a lot of depth to playing it well. I didn't try motion, because I have always played it with the old NES controller so I cannot comment on that.

I think that the multiplayer was pretty good, I only wish it had a chat function. I played with some people online and the races were smooth with no lag.

Is it worth $10? In my opinion yes, yes it is. Is it the first game I would buy if you had limit resources? No, I would put Lost Wind 2 there, followed by You, Me, and the Cube. Since I still had about $190 in Wii points thanks to pepsi though I didn't hesitate on downloading.

I will be posting my code later tonight if anyone wants to post thier's.

I appreciate the review.

I already own Lost Winds 2- but is You, Me and the Cube really worth $10?

[ProfWho]

Is it worth $10? Really the answer to that depends on what you are looking for. It is probably the most unique puzzle game on wiiware if not anywhere, but it really is a game that could be called an aquired taste. It is a very surreal experience as opposed. Personally I think it is well worth it, but I could understand if someone else out there did not.

[crunchewy]

NintendoLife finally put up their review of Excitebike. It's pretty glowing (http://wiiware.nintendolife.com/reviews/2009/11/excitebike_world_rally).

[oemor]

I been playing the new Excitebike a lot it's pretty much a souped up version of the nes version. Its really simple & fun racing. I really disliked the motion control scheme & racing in other views besides 2d confused me. The online is great as well & addicting I probably put in more than 10 hours in this already. If anyone wants to play hit me up.

[Kaoz]

I never played Excitebike for the NES, or Excitebike 64, but the videos of Excitebike W.R. looked really fun so I picked it up. Only finished the bronze cup, and I suck, but my friend code is 0260-0402-1280. I added ProfWho

[MisterModest]

This week, Europe got 1 VC game and 2 WiiWare games, Ninja Gaiden - VC Arcade/800 Points, My Zoo (a sequel to My Aquarium) - WiiWare/500 Points, and Rock N’ Roll Climber - WiiWare/800 Points.

[ProfWho]

I been playing the new Excitebike a lot it's pretty much a souped up version of the nes version. Its really simple & fun racing. I really disliked the motion control scheme & racing in other views besides 2d confused me. The online is great as well & addicting I probably put in more than 10 hours in this already. If anyone wants to play hit me up.

If you post your code I will be certain to add you. Also, kaoz I c have just added you

[crunchewy]

I'm going to download Excitebike tonight, I think, and will post my friend code later. Shouldn't we have this in a separate thread, though, rather then here?

[flameofdoom666]

I think I might bite on Excitebike.... I am hesitant because I only have 7000 points... (I bought a massive amount of WiiWare/VC games... thanks Pepsi for all the points!)

My DSi has 6000 points still as well- and I have been pretty generous with the amount of content I buy..

[KingBroly]

I got Excitebike. I like it. The track editor seems a bit...good, but not so good at the same time. I don't think you can move pieces around, so if you want a shorter track, you can't move the Finish Line closer. You have to individually delete every small tile of track until the Finish Line is where you want it to be. Or at least from what I've seen, that's the issue I have with that.

Online is kinda fun. I never won any races (I call hacks) but it seemed good. I wish it was more than 4 players though. That way, they could get rid of those stupid bots getting in my way. I definitely don't think you can go wrong with Excitebike. Also, no local multiplayer from what I can tell. But considering each race is around 1-2 minutes a piece, I don't see how that's a problem.

Friend Code is 1505-5833-8415

[Cao Cao]

Final Fantasy II (IV US) was rated by the ESRB.
http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=104274

[ZForce915]

I've downloaded Excitebike last night and played it for an hour. It's good stuff, I prefer the all D-pad control vs. the motion controls.

Whether it is worth the 1000 points or not...well I have 17,200 on my account after the Pepsi promotion so to me this stuff is all free! This is the first time I've turned my Wii on in 3-4 months so if I didn't have the points I don't know if I would have put $10 in to buy it.

[Ryukahn]

Final Fantasy II (IV US) was rated by the ESRB.
http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=104274

Cool deal. I recently bought the DS remake, but I may buy this anyway.

[Cao Cao]

Another VC ESRB rating, this time a Lucasarts property:
http://www.esrb.org/ratings/synopsis.jsp?Certificate=28277

Indiana Jones' Greatest Adventures for the SNES.

EDIT: Also, the Wiiware demo service is going live in Europe this week, debuting with demos of FFCC My Life as a Darklord, Bit.Trip Beat, and Nyxquest:
http://www.nintendo.co.uk/NOE/en_GB/news/2009/sample_the_delights_of_wiiware_for_free_15058.html

EDIT 2: Ah yes, and Street Fighter II: Champion Edition (TG16 import, 700 points) is apparently set for the US VC tomorrow:
http://vc-pce.com/usa/e/index.html

[Ryukahn]

We have Demos!

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD: TRY BEFORE YOU BUY: NINTENDO OFFERS 5 GAME DEMOS TO GUIDE HOLIDAY SHOPPERS
There's never been a better time to check out the extraordinary lineup of downloadable games from Nintendo. This week, Wii™ owners who connect their Wii consoles to the Internet can enjoy demos of five exceptional games for the WiiWare™ downloadable game service for zero Wii Points™: BIT.TRIP BEAT, FINAL FANTASY® CRYSTAL CHRONICLES®: My Life as a Darklord™, NyxQuest: Kindred Spirits, World of Goo™ and a brand new entry in the Pokémon™ game series, Pokémon™ Rumble. To get a taste of any or all of these tremendous titles before downloading the full versions, go to the WiiWare section of the Wii Shop Channel and search for "Demo." For more information, please visit www.nintendo.com/wii/wiiware/demo.
This week's launch of Pokémon Rumble for WiiWare delivers more than just a fun-packed new addition to the beloved Pokémon universe. Anyone who joins Club Nintendo™ – or is already a member – will have the opportunity to unlock an exclusive Toy Pokémon character that can be used in the game. Simply connect your Wii Shop Channel account to your new or existing Club Nintendo account, use Wii Points to download Pokémon Rumble and watch for an e-mail containing a special password that lets you access the character in the game. More information about this offer can be found at us.wii.com/wiiware/pokemonrumble/register. The offer is available only through April 30, 2010.


In addition to the WiiWare demos and a new Pokémon adventure, visitors to the Wii Shop Channel this week will also find a pair of classic Virtual Console™ games – one offering irresistible action with the iconic Indiana Jones® series, the other featuring the timeless thrills of Capcom's Street Fighter™ series. Meanwhile, Nintendo DSiWare™ users can visit the Nintendo DSi™ Shop to discover an eye-popping new Art Style™ game, a fun, arcade-style bowling title and a robot-themed logic game, all available for easy download and playable anytime, anywhere on the hand-held Nintendo DSi system.


WiiWare


Pokémon Rumble

Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) – Mild Cartoon Violence
Price: 1,500 Wii Points
Description: Available exclusively for the WiiWare service, Pokémon Rumble is an action game in which you control Toy Pokémon (referred to as "Pokémon") and take on wave after wave of other Pokémon in a variety of stages. You can befriend some of the defeated Pokémon along the way, which lets you add them to your collection and grants you the ability to use them in battle. Switch between collected Pokémon at any time, taking advantage of the fact that the amount of damage you deal depends on the type of move used and the type of Pokémon hit. Be the last one standing to gain the right to compete in the Battle Royale and test your skills against many Pokémon at once. You can also team up with three people for some multiplayer action (additional Wii Remote controllers required), working together to take down tough Bosses and earning points that can be used toward recruiting or training Pokémon. You can even save your favorite Pokémon to your Wii Remote™ controller for exchanges with friends. Combining beautiful cel-shaded graphics and exciting game-play features, this is one rumble you won't want to miss. Note that a demo version of Pokémon Rumble is also available for zero Wii Points.


BIT.TRIP BEAT Demo

Publisher: Aksys Games
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 0 Wii Points
Description: BIT.TRIP BEAT brings retro action back as you use the Wii Remote controller's motion sensor to bounce beats in this rhythm game. Retro visuals, classic game play, four-player multiplayer and an 8-bit soundtrack will get you in the zone and rock your world. Pay attention, though: As with most classic games, the challenges are mighty. If you can stay cool as the difficulty increases, you'll discover the beginnings of the BIT.TRIP saga.


FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: My Life as a Darklord Demo

Publisher: SQUARE ENIX
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) – Mild Fantasy Violence, Mild Suggestive Themes
Price: 0 Wii Points
Description: Step into the royal shoes of the Darklord's daughter as she installs traps and monsters inside her tower to fight back the endless waves of invading adventurers in this world-conquest role-playing game. Filling your demonic tower with monsters and traps called Artifacts is your only hope to keep the adventurers from destroying the Dark Crystal on the top floor. Fly your tower across the land and conquer every stage on your way to dominating the entire world.


NyxQuest: Kindred Spirits Demo

Publisher: Over The Top Games
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) – Mild Fantasy Violence
Price: 0 Wii Points
Description: NyxQuest: Kindred Spirits is the awesome story of Nyx, an enigmatic winged girl who must descend from heaven in search of her missing friend, Icarus. Fly over the ruins of ancient Greece and avoid falling into blazing sands or perishing in the claws of cruel harpies and hydras. You'll need the help of Zeus and other benevolent gods from Olympus to summon their powers. They will let you cast rays, modify the scenery and control winds at will. Fly, aim and shoot using the Wii Remote controller. Play with a friend and maximize your abilities: While one player controls Nyx, the other will control the powers from the gods.


World of Goo Demo

Publisher: 2D BOY
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) – Comic Mischief
Price: 0 Wii Points
Description: World of Goo is an award-winning, physics-based puzzle/construction game made entirely by two guys. Use living, squirming, talking globs of goo to build structures, bridges, cannonballs, zeppelins and giant tongues. The millions of Goo Balls that live in the beautiful World of Goo are curious to explore, but they don't know that they are in a game, nor that they are extremely delicious.


Virtual Console


Indiana Jones' Greatest Adventures™

Original platform: Super NES™
Publisher: LucasArts
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) – Mild Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Grab your trusty whip and slash your way through all three Indy classics in this no-thrills-barred adventure. If it happened in the movies, it happens here: the giant boulder from Raiders of the Lost Ark, the mine-cart chase from Temple of Doom, the three trials from Last Crusade, Rene Belloq and Colonel Vogel – it's three times the action, all in one fully loaded game.


STREET FIGHTER II': CHAMPION EDITION

Original platform: TurboGrafx16
Publisher: Capcom
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: T (Teen) – Mild Blood, Violence
Price: 700 Wii Points
Description: This is the classic PCEngine (TurboGrafx16) version of the two-player fighting game that started it all. At the time, a large capacity HuCARD was used to allow faithful recreation of the dynamic arcade game and its features, including bonus stages and sound effects. In the game, players select one of 12 characters and face opponents in a no-holds-barred battle to decide the top fighter. Master a character's special moves and combos to defeat your rivals around the world. In "V.S. BATTLE" mode, there's a convenient handicap feature. Using this feature to adjust a character's performance, a novice player can be evenly matched against a seasoned player to enjoy an intense, head-to-head combat experience.

[BlueLobstah]

It's about time some demos were released. Of course they say 5 demos, but I only see 4 unless a Pokemon Rumble demo is also included.

Edit: Whoops. Looks like Ryukhan got his up before I finished editing mine.

[utopianmachine]

I'm all over the idea of these demos, and interested in the Pokemon game. Guess I'll actually turn on my Wii today.

[crunchewy]

My kids are excited about Pokemon Rumble, and I'm looking forward to playing it with them. The description is a little unclear, though - is this a fully multiplayer game, or is it a single-player game with a multiplayer boss-rush mode? I hope it's the former. They don't get video game time until Wednesday, so no playing it until then.

EDIT: also really glad to see demos, but I hope they add demos for all WiiWare titles, and not just a selection.

[SL4IN]

I thought for sure Pokemon Rumble was going to be 1,000 points, oh well, I was going to get it anyway. Going to grab that and DIGIDRIVE.

[Nohbdy]

My kids are excited about Pokemon Rumble, and I'm looking forward to playing it with them.

You're going to get oh-so-bored real soon, just like any other Pokemon spin-off. Save your Nintendo Points for something much better.

[crunchewy]

I thought for sure Pokemon Rumble was going to be 1,000 points, oh well, I was going to get it anyway. Going to grab that and DIGIDRIVE.

That's the Pokemon tax, I guess. They know Pokemon fans are going to download it whatever the price. Fortunately I've got a cash of points from the Pepsi Rockband contest. Otherwise I'd hesitate at that price point.

You're going to get oh-so-bored real soon, just like any other Pokemon spin-off. Save your Nintendo Points for something much better.

This looks more fun then most spinoffs, though. Did you try the demo, or are you just presuming, though I can understand that. :)

[Nohbdy]

Presuming, as usual. All you can do is move, attack 1, and attack 2. That's it.

[Purple Flames]

I'm gonna have to try out Pokemon Rumble. It looks like it has potential to be fun.

[flameofdoom666]

I am very interested in the demo for FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: My Life as a Darklord and Pokemon Rumble. I have the other 3, haha. I heard that FINAL FANTASY® CRYSTAL CHRONICLES®: My Life as a Darklord was a tower defense game... that has me interested, to say the least.

Oh yeah, last night I finally downloaded Excite Bike World Rally because of the glowing reviews. It seems fun, but I suck in it. Is the rating system just S or B?

[Gothic Walrus]

The game looks a lot like a real-time version of Pokemon Mystery Team.

Joystiq has an overly enthusiastic Japanese video of Pokemon Rumble up (http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/16/nintendoware-weekly-wiiware-demos-pokemon-rumble-indiana-jone/). It looks like it uses the same models that Pokemon Ranch did.

The game looks like it could be fun, but on the other hand...$15 could buy you a lot of gaming in the form of Virtual Console titles. If it was $10, I'd probably go for it with my remaining points, but I'm not sure if it's worth $15.

Then again, maybe I'm just spoiled from Steam. For a little more than half that $15, I got two and a half games in the Overlord pack this weekend.

Presuming, as usual. All you can do is move, attack 1, and attack 2. That's it.

You say that like it's a bad thing. That formula worked for Diablo 2 and plenty of NES and Game Boy games.

[utopianmachine]

Joystiq has an overly enthusiastic Japanese video of Pokemon Rumble up (http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/16/nintendoware-weekly-wiiware-demos-pokemon-rumble-indiana-jone/). It looks like it uses the same models that Pokemon Ranch did.

Thanks for the video. Not crazy about the Pokemon Ranch visual style, but I'm a sap for Pokemon games.

[LostRoad]

No castlevania... sweet.

[Diebythesword]

Indiana Jones, Pokemon, and demos! w00t!

Pokemon Rumble is a sweet game so far

[Nohbdy]

That formula worked for Diablo 2 and plenty of NES and Game Boy games.

Worked for them, but not for Pokemon.

[Halo05]

Hah, the TG16 version of Street Fighter II' remains a riot. The music is... familiar yet decidedly off but the graphics are very accurate. The mind boggles to consider how things might have turned out had the TG16 in the US gotten the first home port of a Super Nintendo game.

[doctorfaustus]

Indiana Jones is a pretty cool game, if memory serves.

[SuperPhillip]

Did anyone get Pokemon Rumble? How is it?

[Diebythesword]

It's badass, you can try the demo!

[SuperPhillip]

It's badass, you can try the demo!

Yep. Went online and saw soon after. It's a pretty long demo though, so I don't if I've seen most of the game via the demo.

[lilboo]

Played the demo. It's .... really weird.
Pass for me.

[utopianmachine]

I'm working on downloading all the demos now. Only game I've played is World of Goo, and I got that on the PC through that name-your-own-price thing they did recently.

Everyone, make sure you download all the demos, even if you don't intend to play with them for months. Seems like they're only available through the holidays.

[KingBroly]

World of Goo is really good. But until I figure out how to beat that one level (Divided?), it's a pass.

That's the only demo I've tried so far. I'll try Final Fantasy later.

[SuperPhillip]

Got Pokemon Rumble and Excitebike World Rally.

Haven't been able to play WR yet, but Rumble is pretty fun. It's mindless fun, but it's fun nonetheless.

[leveskikesko]

The inclusion of demos is AWESOME.....just playing, it's more like BOUT TIME, Nintendo!

Unfortunately none of the games with demos seemed too exciting. Did try NyxQuest, and while it does some unique things with the platformer genre, it just feels overly slow and barren. Maybe things liven up later on, but it's not my fault their demo didn't win me over.

What would really be worthy are some real Wii game demos, kind of like the other consoles have been doing since only forever. I guess we'll have to wait another 5 years, and just be grateful for this.

[soonersfan60]

I hope that people who download demos actually end up buying one of the games. Otherwise, Nintendo may go back to no demos.

[leveskikesko]

I hope that people who download demos actually end up buying one of the games. Otherwise, Nintendo may go back to no demos.

Oh it will help.

There are countless games I would have ignorantly passed if not for the amazing demos. I'd go even as far as to argue that demos are the reason I still proudly don the label, "gamer".

[Ryukahn]

I guess I should really download the demos sometime today, even if I don't plan on playing them yet. Maybe it will show that we want more demos.

[Halo05]

Hopefully the next step is VC demos. I still haven't been able to convince myself to pull the trigger on Gradius II, a demo could help (hint, hint).

[MisterModest]

This week, Europe got 2 WiiWare games, Pokémon Rumble - WiiWare/1500 Points, and Shootanto: Evolutionary Mayhem - WiiWare/500 Points.

[Cao Cao]

http://www.gamespot.com/news/6241055.html?tag=latestheadlines;title;2
For the US, the VC title next Monday will be Super Mario Kart (SNES). Nintendo also confirmed that Super Smash Bros. (N64) and Pilotwings (SNES) will be headed to the US VC before the end of the year.

[lilboo]

Hmm. I don't remember Pilotwings SNES as much as I do Pilotwings 64.

[soonersfan60]

What?! No Earthbound ? :bomb: :roll:

[foltzie]

What?! No Earthbound ? :bomb: :roll:

:spam: Since there doesnt appear to be a troll icon.

[soonersfan60]

^ Not being a troll... I want my Earthbound, dammit ! All those other cool SNES games getting released. It's just not fair. *pouts*

[Doomed]

:spam: Since there doesnt appear to be a troll icon.
http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c305/dabob51/Trollface_HD.jpg

[soonersfan60]

Serious question now: I just downloaded all of the demos, and World of Goo is actually pretty fun, but I would prefer it on a portable system. Is there an equivalent game for download on DSi (or even better... a cart game for DS)?

[Ryukahn]

Tons of stuff

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD: DOWNLOAD NEW BIT.TRIP KICKS, SPEEDING KARTS, MAGIC CASTLES AND MORE
Nov. 23, 2009
Among the latest downloadable games from Nintendo is BIT.TRIP VOID, a riveting new installment in the extraordinary retro-arcade series for the WiiWare™ service. You'll also find some remarkable kid-friendly fare on WiiWare this week, including the immersive Harvest Moon®: My Little Shop. Race-loving Mario™ fans will thrill to see the original Super Mario Kart™ make its Virtual Console™ debut alongside the imaginative A Boy and His Blob: Trouble on Blobolonia. The Nintendo DSiWare™ service welcomes Castle Of Magic - featuring some inventive uses for the Nintendo DSi™ system's built-in cameras - as well as five delightful additions to the Electroplankton™ series. No doubt, the variety and value found on the Wii Shop Channel and Nintendo DSi Shop are enough to keep holiday consumers energized through Black Friday and beyond.


WiiWare

BIT.TRIP VOID

Publisher: Aksys Games
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 600 Wii Points™
Description: The third installment in the retro-arcade BIT.TRIP saga is a synesthetic exploration of rhythm and music as they pertain to our everyday lives and moods. With a control scheme that's new to the series yet wholly familiar to gamers, players have complete freedom to move about the screen wherever they desire, interacting with the music in brand new ways. The classic game-play aesthetic remains as color - and the absence of color - are explored to the fullest. Trip out in four-player co-op and get lost in the beat with a friend. See if you can survive the onslaught of Beats and further your own BIT.TRIP.


Harvest Moon: My Little Shop

Publisher: Natsume, Inc.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 1,200 Wii Points
Description: Welcome to Clover Town, where you've just taken over your grandparents' farm and shop. The town has fallen on hard times, though. People are leaving, businesses are struggling and the magic of the Harvest Sprites is gone. Can you turn Clover Town's fortunes around and restore its missing magic? Raise crops and animals, then use what you farm at your shop. Keep your customers happy by making wild fruit juices, towering ice cream cones and extravagantly decorated eggs in a series of fun and fast-paced activities that use the Wii Remote™ controller to its fullest potential. Chop vegetables in midair, shake your Wii Remote controller to match your cow's moves, roll eggs through tilting mazes and more. Use your hard-earned money to buy new crops and animals or expand and decorate your shop. Along the way, you'll meet and befriend lots of new and interesting characters, as well as several familiar faces from the Harvest Moon series.


Little Tournament Over Yonder

Publisher: Gevo Entertainment
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Mild Cartoon Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: In the world of Little Tournament Over Yonder, play as a young Prince or Princess and lead your team through numerous battles. Plan and deploy your units to gain strategic advantages. Launch real-time battles between units and fight hard, fast and smart. Build your team, hire new units with different powers, then groom them with battle experience to gain level. With strategic planning and real-time, fast-paced fighting, this game is for the complete warrior - one who works his mind and his muscles. Go for Single-Player Tournament glory or challenge your friend in a 2-Player Versus match.


Learning with the PooYoos: Episode 1

Publisher: Lexis Numérique
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: EC (Early Childhood)
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: Welcome to the world of the PooYoos, the first fun, poetic brain trainer for children aged 3 to 6. With the PooYoos, a merry band of adorable baby animals, children will have fun while learning the developmental basics: numbers, letters, lateralization, shapes, colors and more. Children get to dance with their new friends and enjoy lovely interactive rewards. There are two levels of interactivity, so children can play according to their age and level. This game has been designed for use by children who have not yet grasped reading.


Virtual Console

Super Mario Kart

Original platform: Super NES™
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Get in, sit down, buckle up and experience frantic kart racing in the game that started it all. Select one of eight characters from the Mario series - offering a variety of driving styles - and take on three championship cups in three different kart classes. Win enough and you'll unlock a fourth circuit: the ultra-tough Special Cup. Crossing the finish line in first place isn't an easy task, though, as each track has unique obstacles to conquer. Racers can obtain special power-ups that boost them to victory. For a different kind of challenge, take on a friend in multiplayer races or go head-to-head in a Battle Mode arena, where the object is to pop your opponent's balloons before you lose your own. With more than 15 tracks to master and nearly endless replay value, Super Mario Kart is classic gaming with some banana peels thrown in for good measure.


A Boy and His Blob: Trouble on Blobolonia

Original platform: NES™
Publisher: Majesco Entertainment
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: Blob has come from the distant planet Blobolonia in search of an Earth boy to help him save his world. Join him on this fantastic adventure, searching for treasures in mysterious caverns beneath the earth, then traveling to Blobolonia to battle the evil emperor. Discover Blob's amazing appetite for jellybeans and the different transformations that occur with each flavor. Use these shapes to overcome even the most outrageous obstacles. A Boy and His Blob is a fantastic journey filled with constant surprises and humorous characters.

[EXStrike]

Good week :o

[theflicker]

Damn. This is a really nice treat for Thanksgiving week. I'm down for Bit.Trip and Super Mario Kart for sure. My sisters might be interested in Harvest Moon. I'll have to wait on reviews for that.

[The Crotch]

^ Not being a troll... I want my Earthbound, dammit ! All those other cool SNES games getting released. It's just not fair. *pouts*
Well, if you really weren't trolling (or for any lurkers curious)...

There was a big thread on it earlier. Earthbound will not be released for legal reasons.

Those legal reasons being "they used a fuckload of real music (http://earthboundcentral.com/2009/02/earthbound-legal-issues/)".

[utopianmachine]

Earthbound will not be released for legal reasons.

Those legal reasons being "they used a fuckload of real music (http://earthboundcentral.com/2009/02/earthbound-legal-issues/)".

Interesting article. Explains a lot.

I'm intrigued by the Harvest Moon WiiWare, but it sounds like reviews are definitely needed on that one, especially with the $12 pricetag. It's probably too much to hope it's a full Harvest Moon game with a shop element.

[botticus]

VC looks like a buy for me today. After enjoying the new Blob, I'd like to go back and see the original.

[Gothic Walrus]

VC looks like a buy for me today. After enjoying the new Blob, I'd like to go back and see the original.

The sadistically hard original?

Part of me wants to try it. The other part of me knows that, if the stories I've heard are true, I'll end up throwing my Wiimote through my TV in frustration. :lol:

[crunchewy]

Serious question now: I just downloaded all of the demos, and World of Goo is actually pretty fun, but I would prefer it on a portable system. Is there an equivalent game for download on DSi (or even better... a cart game for DS)?

No. However, Tiki Towers, which is kind of like it (kind of a a rip off of it) though different and also a good game, is available for the iPod Touch/iPhone if you have one of those, and it's good (it's also available on WiiWare). It's got monkeys. +1. I'll be stunned if Tiki Towers isn't ported to DSiWare at some point.

On a different note, I played the Bit.Trip.Beat demo and liked it, but am left unsure. It was hard, for one thing, and seems like it could be a frustrating game. Still, I might give the full version a shot. I definitely liked the tilt-control of the paddle. Why didn't they do that for Arkanoid?

[lilboo]

<3 Super Mario Kart <3

[BlueLobstah]

VC looks like a buy for me today. After enjoying the new Blob, I'd like to go back and see the original.


I loved the game as a kid, but I'm not sure why anyone would really want to go back to the original other than nostalgia. The game was hard then, and still hard now. The Wii game generally improves upon the formula of the original.

[Strell]

Holy shit A Boy and His Blob!

[Lone_Prodigy]

SMK <3

Still my favourite MK game. I miss the feather in the other games.

[Got_Wii]

Will be getting Super Mario Kart in a few minutes when I turn the system on....cant wait to play, was my favorite game when i had my super nintendo

[hero101]

Did anyone here beat Zombies ate my neighbors yet?

[Cao Cao]

http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=105440

Ogre Battle 64 was rated for the VC by Australia's OFLC

[Halo05]

http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=105440

Ogre Battle 64 was rated for the VC by Australia's OFLC

Oh man... If that comes out here, one of my last reasons for wanting to rebuy an N64 will go out the window. Bring it on.

[Ryukahn]

http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=105440

Ogre Battle 64 was rated for the VC by Australia's OFLC

I remember wanting this back in the day for my N64, but can't really remember much about it. Guess I'll have to go look it up now.

[dothog]

SMK. BOOYAH.

Now if only they gave a damn about emulating that Super FX chip or whatever the hell it is so SWM:YI can get here. Then the VC SNES library would contain my top three 16-bit funtimes (incl. SMW).

[SuperPhillip]

Isn't Pilotwings due out by the end of the year?
That uses the FX chip, doesn't it?

[Strell]

No, it used Mode 7.

[SuperPhillip]

No, it used Mode 7.

I get that and FX confused apparently.

[Strell]

SuperFX allowed 3D (Star Fox) and some various other effects like smoother sprite shrinking/enlargement (Yoshi's Island, one of the first bosses did this).

Mode 7 allowed a background layer to be rotated, dynamically changing it smoothly and quickly.

Arguably both are animation techniques, with the SuperFX allowing for more advanced things in the long run, and Mode 7 better handling more traditional (at the time) graphical effects.

[maximumzero]

Picked up $20 worth of digital games tonight.

I've always wanted to play Bonk's Adventure seeing as it's generally known as the premier platformer on the Turbographix. So far so good.

http://img269.imageshack.us/img269/1798/wii4.jpg


I've been on a bit of a Mario kick after playing New Super Mario Bros. Wii, so I thought I'd complete my classic collection.

http://img686.imageshack.us/img686/8859/wii3.jpg


Do I really need to give a reason to own Super Mario Kart?

http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/9194/wii3g.jpg


Also, I thought this looked rather neat.

http://img269.imageshack.us/img269/7523/wiil.jpg

[SuperPhillip]

ha That does look cool.

[Halo05]

Mine are arranged chronologically by system. It's probably most impressive in my NES section where it goes from Mario 2 Lost Levels up to Kirby's Adventure with all manner of stuff in between.

[MisterModest]

This week, Europe got 1 VC game and 4 WiiWare games, Shanghai II: Dragon's Eye - SEGA Genesis/800 Points, Copter Crisis - WiiWare/500 Points, Dragon Master Spell Caster - WiiWare/500 Points, Rabbids Lab - WiiWare/500 Points, and Solitaire - WiiWare/500 Points.

[Cao Cao]

Japan's VC for December:

Famicom:
Famicom Detective Club Part II: The Girl in Back

Super Famicom:
Final Fight Tough (3)

Neo-Geo:
The King of Fighters '95

MSX:
Metal Gear
Yie ar Kung-Fu 2

Arcade:
Ordyne
Rompers
Zaxxon

[EXStrike]

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD: NINTENDO OFFERS 10 DOWNLOADS TO HELP YOU RECOVER FROM YOUR HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Nov. 30, 2009
Whether you succumbed to a food coma, found yourself trapped at the mall or just planted yourself in front of the television, clearly you need a break from the exhausting holiday weekend. And Nintendo is here to help, with 10 downloadable games sure to provide a welcome distraction. WiiWare™ brings the latest installment in the gripping Tales of Monkey Island series, while Nintendo DSiWare™ serves up some magic along with the popular Bookworm™ and Foto Face: The Face Stealer Strikes, a game starring...you. And don't forget to take a trip down memory lane with two Virtual Console™ classics - one from Super NES™ and one from the arcades.

For you Flipnote Studio™ fans, there's something "dynamite" on the Nintendo Channel and the Flipnote Hatena Web site (http://flipnote.hatena.com/special/) this week, so be sure to check it out. You can also watch and download Flipnotes created by renowned artists like Aardman Animations LTD. at the new Flipnote Central (http://flipnote.hatena.com/special/) section.

WiiWare

Tales of Monkey Island: Chapter 4
Publisher: Telltale Games
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E 10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Cartoon Violence, Mild Language, Suggestive Themes, Use of Alcohol
Price: 1,000 Wii Points™
Description: Conspiracies, betrayal and shocking revelations as the Tales of Monkey Island intensity builds. Guybrush returns to Flotsam Island, but forget about a hero's welcome. Handed over to De Singe by the backstabbing Morgan LeFlay, Guybrush is seized by an angry mob and put on trial. With a silk-tongued prosecutor in his face and a hangman's noose dangling over his neck, Guybrush must figure out how to defend himself against grave accusations. Meanwhile, the determined Marquis sets his sights on a new and far more attractive test subject. How on earth will the Mighty Pirate get out of this mess? The monthly Tales of Monkey Island tension continues to mount in The Trial and Execution of Guybrush Threepwood. Brace yourself for a shocking revelation that will rock the world of Monkey Island to its core.

My Zoo™
Publisher: Hudson Entertainment
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: My Zoo is a relaxing animal sim that puts you in the shoes of an animal breeder, raising up animals you'd normally only dream of. All it takes is a Wii Remote™ controller for a simple, yet fulfilling, connection with nature. There are 12 animal types in total (four sold separately as add-on content). Select your favorites and nurture them to adulthood. Feeding them, petting them and cleaning up their messes are great ways to form a lasting bond. Each animal's personality will change depending on how you take care of it. Watch them get spoiled, turn into over-eaters and more as they grow on a daily basis. Some animals will even have a baby on occasion, and once it's born, you've got another mouth to feed. Game time passes much more quickly than real time, and the different animal types are active at various hours - some during the day and some at night. Sometimes it's fun to just kick back and watch what they do. So what are you waiting for? It's time to create your own personal zoo.

Copter Crisis
Publisher: Digital Leisure Inc.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Mild Violence
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: Copter Crisis puts you in the pilot's seat. As a member of the elite Helicopter Rescue Squad, you'll be assigned to respond to any type of emergency anywhere at any time. As the newest member joining this team, you'll have to complete various missions with the latest in helicopter rescue technology. When you're ready, you'll be tasked with executing rescue missions all around the Black Rock Canyon. Your Wii Remote controller becomes the control stick as you guide your copter along the canyons while avoiding rocks, severe weather and even anti-aircraft fire. Rescue lost hikers, deliver supplies to remote areas, assist on scientific missions and even blast your way into underground cavern systems. Complete all of your objectives and rise through the ranks to take on the toughest rescues and unlock 10 bonus missions. Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection Pay & Play allows you to enhance your flight experience with 10 additional copters, which can give you access to unlimited missiles, larger fuel tanks, cargo holds and even mid-air loops.

Christmas Clix
Publisher: JV Games Inc.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 1,000 Wii Points
Description: Christmas doesn't have to be all work for Santa, does it? Santa's having some fun and wants you to play along too. You can help Santa decorate the tree by removing the presents and ornaments that he stacks. When you consecutively connect packages without missing a beat, you get extra points. Collect as many candy canes as you can because when you collect enough, Santa will add a special star to the game that can greatly help you get through a level or just bring some additional fun.

Nintendo DSiWare

Foto Face™: The Face Stealer Strikes
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Mild Cartoon Violence
Price: 800 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Your face, your game, you're the hero. In Foto Face: The Face Stealer Strikes, YOU get to be in the game. Using the camera and microphone, you become the hero in your own game. Unlock a variety of hero costumes as you battle the baddies, search for stars and solve platforming puzzles. The Face Stealer has stolen your identity and is creating trouble - and everyone is blaming you. You have to track him down across 15 action-packed stages. Along the way, you'll come across many memorable creatures, both friend and foe. Use the camera and microphone to create faces and voices for every character in your game. Foto Face: The Face Stealer Strikes - a game starring YOU.

Bookworm
Publisher: PopCap Games, Inc.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Feed your appetite for wordy fun in this download version of PopCap's hit word-puzzle game. Link letter tiles left, right, up and down to build words and feed Lex in Bookworm Classic mode. But watch out for burning letters - they could spell disaster for you and Lex. Use Reward Tiles and spell Bonus Words to boost your score and link your best words to enter the Hall of Fame. Play unlimited levels of word-puzzle fun and learn new words on the go. You'll relax and tune up your brain every time you play.

Master of Illusion™ Express: Mind Probe
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points™
Description: Master of Illusion Express titles are mind-boggling magic tricks that you perform with your Nintendo DSi™ system. Learn the illusions, practice up and then amaze your friends. Master of Illusion Express: Mind Probe uses your Nintendo DSi system as a means of detecting information. Ask a spectator to write down a favorite (or least-favorite) item - person, food or color, for example - and then be astonished when the Nintendo DSi system sounds an alarm to indicate when that item is spoken. Use any variation of likes or dislikes to stun the crowd.

Sudoku Challenge!
Publisher: Digital Leisure Inc.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Now's your chance to play the brain-busting puzzle game taking the world by storm. With more than 100,000,000 sudoku puzzles, you'll never see the same puzzle twice in Sudoku Challenge! You can select the classic nine-by-nine sukodu game boards as well as Grand Sudoku, which challenges you to complete five intersecting sudoku boards simultaneously. Just a beginner? Don't worry - with three difficulty options, even the most novice player can complete a sudoku with ease. But if you're a seasoned pro, challenge yourself in "Hard" mode and test your true skills. It's time to get your thinking cap on and see how many sudoku puzzles you can conquer.

Virtual Console

The Combatribes™
Original platform: Super NES
Publisher: Aksys Games
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E 10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: The evil gang known as "Guilty Zero" rules the city, and it's up to you as one of the members of the Combatribes to take them down. Choose one of three characters and fight your way through the city of New York. Progress through the game by tackling the goons and boss of each stage using your arsenal of kicks, punches, throws and other techniques to beat them into submission. Once your stamina bar is reduced to zero, you'll need to use a continue, but when you're out of continues, it's game over. Can you eliminate the threat of "Guilty Zero" and restore the peace in New York City!?

Solomon's Key™
Original platform: Arcade
Publisher: TECMO
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 600 Wii Points
Description: Solomon's Key is an action/puzzle game that lets you control the wizard Dana, delving into a labyrinth to seek out a magical tome called Solomon's Key, an item that will help in your quest to drive away evil spirits let loose in the world. The goal of the game is to use the buttons to create and destroy blocks, and use various techniques to find keys to pass through doors. The game has appeared on a variety of platforms, but the arcade version focuses strongly on the action elements of the game, making it more challenging, and allowing players of all skill levels, from beginners to masters, to enjoy it. Settings like the number of lives and difficulty level can be adjusted.

Nintendo adds new titles to the Nintendo DSi Shop and the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time on Mondays. Users with broadband Internet access can redeem Wii Points or Nintendo DSi Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel. Nintendo DSi Points can be purchased in the Nintendo DSi Shop. A Nintendo Points Card™ can be purchased at retail locations. All points from one Nintendo Points Card must be redeemed in either the Nintendo DSi Shop or the Wii Shop Channel. They are not transferable and cannot be divided between the two systems.

Remember that both Wii and Nintendo DSi feature parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other features, visit Wii.com (http://wii.com/) or NintendoDSi.com (http://nintendodsi.com/).


.

[utopianmachine]

Bookworm! :bouncy:

Christmas Clix seems, in description, hardly worth 1000 points.

I wish Coptor Crisis could be cool.

My Zoo annoyingly already has downloadable content. When a game, at release, has downloadable content, you know you're getting screwed somewhere.

Foto Face seems interesting. Definitely need some reviews on that one.

Sudoku Challenge seems like an excellent value, for sure.

[fart_bubble]

too bad it isn't the arcade version of Combatribes

[spmahn]

Combatribes is a fun Beat Em Up by the makers of Double Dragon, but the Arcade version is superior.

[flameofdoom666]

What happened to Castlevania ReBirth? Seriously.. this is rediculos already. It has been a month, and no nice. Beside the Nintendo Week hinting at it being out pretty much the next week (like Excite Bike), Nintendo Power said that we should be playing it before I read the issue. Grrrr... it is just annoying already.

/rant

[soonersfan60]

Didn't we already get the NES version of Solomon's Key? I really liked that game but didn't pull the trigger. I'll have to check into the arcade version to see if it's different/better.

[JJSP]

I need more Wii Points. I turned on my Wii for the first time in like 6 months today.

[Gothic Walrus]

What happened to Castlevania ReBirth? Seriously.. this is rediculos already. It has been a month, and no nice. Beside the Nintendo Week hinting at it being out pretty much the next week (like Excite Bike), Nintendo Power said that we should be playing it before I read the issue. Grrrr... it is just annoying already.

/rant

Screw that - where's Cave Story?

[crunchewy]

Muscle March is coming! Muscle March is coming!

http://www.siliconera.com/2009/12/02/muscle-march-flexes-onto-wiiware-this-winter/

[foltzie]

Muscle March is coming! Muscle March is coming!

http://www.siliconera.com/2009/12/02/muscle-march-flexes-onto-wiiware-this-winter/

Merry Christmas Strell...

[ChibiJosh]

If that is $10, it's day 1 for me.

[cappy125]

when are they going to add Double Dragon 2. Was it just me who thought that game was amazing (especially 2 player)

[MisterModest]

This week, Europe got 1 VC game and 2 WiiWare games, Earthworm Jim 2 - SEGA Genesis/800 Points, Happy Holidays: Christmas - WiiWare/500 Points, and Mahjong - WiiWare/500 Points.

[Cao Cao]

Sunsoft and Gaijinworks are bringing Blaster Master to the VC!
http://kotaku.com/5419236/sunsoft-rises-again-in-west-promises-blaster-master-for-virtual-console-soon
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M25ucxIgoqo

[fart_bubble]

surprised no one has already posted that Ireland is going to fuck it up. This is pretty cool, though the game hasn't actually aged that well

[fart_bubble]

hmm Stop Stress and Magnetis are supposed to be released today. Both look interesting

[botticus]

Nintendo DSiWare

Rayman
Publisher: Ubisoft
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 800 Nintendo DSi Points™
Description: The legendary first Rayman adventure is now available from the Nintendo DSiWare service. Play as Rayman and try to save his amazing world from the evil Mr. Dark. Discover a charming universe with colorful landscapes and meet funny characters who'll help Rayman through his quest. Experiment with his abilities as you punch, hang or fly in the air and choose between two difficulty levels. Take advantage of new features in the Nintendo DSi version, such as the Nintendo DSi Camera, map selection on the touch screen and the ability to play against time to win bonuses.

Ball Fighter
Publisher: Teyon
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Ball Fighter is a puzzle game in which you take aim and blast groups of dropping spheres to create matches and clear the board. You can make chains to earn additional points or to make the game more difficult for an opponent. When you destroy spheres in a multiplayer mode, they will be added to the opponent's board, making his or her task more difficult. You can find special bonuses like a Brush, a Rocket Launcher or a Bomb, which can be used to destroy spheres or to paint a line of them with the same color. You'll find a variety of single-player modes, including Arcade, Survival, Brain Breaker and Player vs CPU, plus the unique multiplayer mode, all playable on one Nintendo DSi system.

Pop Island
Publisher: odenis studio
Players: 1-8
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Comic Mischief
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Discover a joyful universe where playing is always a pleasure with Pop Island. Colorful and fun, Pop Island is an action-packed capture-the-flag game. Pick a team to join, then run, jump and spin your way around the island in an attempt to collect the priceless flags hidden throughout it. Become a surfing penguin, a flying fish or a waterskiing crocodile as you go all out for victory, unlocking 12 more joyful animals as you rack up points across eight different planets. You might even end up competing as a skateboarding mammoth. Playing alone is plenty of fun, but the madcap action reaches a new level when your friends get involved. By sharing the demo of the game via DS Download Play, up to seven more people with their own Nintendo DSi systems can use a local wireless connection to join you for some head-to-head or cooperative action. With plenty of power-ups, you'll need to concentrate on capturing more than just the rival team's flag to claim victory.

ARMY DEFENDER
Publisher: MINDSCAPE
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Cartoon Violence
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Army Defender is an action shooter in which players must defend their base against enemy attacks by controlling a machine gun tower designed to eradicate enemy waves. As the player levels up, the enemy becomes more and more numerous and well-equipped. Attackers include soldiers, tanks, paratroopers, helicopters, jet fighters, bombers and elite commandos. Depending on the enemy type (red or green), players must switch between ammunition colors. The machine gun tower will fire where the player taps the touch screen. Power-ups are made available on a regular basis when a super bomber delivers them onto the base. When a power-up is retrieved, players will be able to upgrade their tower for a limited amount of time. Upgrades include flamethrowers, rocket launchers or concussion grenades that will help contain enemy progression.

myNotebook: Red™
Publisher: Nnooo
Players: 1
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: myNotebook allows you to take notes wherever you are. Just pop open your Nintendo DSi system and jot down your thoughts. Make a list and cross it off, or even play your favorite pen-and-paper games (games not included). You can even personalize your notebook by drawing on the cover and changing the paper type with 18 unlockable squared and lined paper styles. Use the pen or pencil to make your notes or doodles, then erase the bits you don't like. With five ink colors, you'll always be able to make your notes and doodles look stylish.

WiiWare™

My Dolphin
Publisher: T&S Ltd.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Wii Points™
Description: You are a dolphin trainer. Use the magical stick (Wii Remote™ and Nunchuk™ controllers) to perform in lifelike dolphin shows. Teach your dolphin tricks and have fun watching your dolphin swim and play elegantly with different scenes, music and angles. This game lets you train your dolphin, compete in dolphin shows and watch your dolphin swim freely. Using Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection Pay & Play, you can become friends with other dolphins that have different colors and personalities. You can also buy new toys such as rings and balls for your dolphin to play with.

MAGNETIS™
Publisher: YULLABY
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: MAGNETIS is all about attraction. Connect the magnets to create electric explosions. Solving this frantic puzzle will require quick thinking and foresight. Anticipate connections in order to generate massive chain reactions to win the highest number of points. To get rid of blocks and score points, you must create lines by connecting left and right magnets of the same color by using conductor blocks. The longer the line, the more points you'll get. Team up with as many as three friends in cooperative mode or play against them in battle mode and compete for the highest score.

Stop Stress: A Day of Fury
Publisher: Abylight
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: T (Teen) - Animated Blood, Mild Suggestive Themes, Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Jack's dreams have become a nightmare, and only you can help him to get out. Climb into the skin of the most stressed-out man in the world, grab the baseball bat and prepare to let off more steam than ever before. Destroy everything around you, beat a path through traffic or at the office, and face off against incredible hallucinations. How far will a day of fury take you?

Flowerworks®
Publisher: Nocturnal Entertainment
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 1,000 Wii Points
Description: While our heroine Follie is traveling to meet her auntie with a cargo of mystical Flowerworks seeds, her ship is pulled off course and crash-lands in a particularly dull area of the planet Elilia. Explore with Follie and help her recover her seeds to transform the world from drab to fab. You'll encounter strange inhabitants, some of whom will help Follie in her quest. Others, such as naughty garden gnomes, will hinder it. Flowerworks is a single-player adventure which combines blooming flowers, colorful fireworks, exploration and a whole lot of fun. The game will have the whole family immersed in no time, but be warned: Becoming a Flowerworks master is not for the faint of heart. Flowerworks includes Adventure, FreePlay and Tutorial game modes, with three difficulty settings in a 20-hour adventure.

Virtual Console

Street Fighter Alpha 2
Original platform: Super NES
Publisher: Capcom USA
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: T (Teen) - Animated Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Street Fighter Alpha 2 explodes with lightning-fast game play and amazing innovations. Quick Move Reversals, Alpha Counters and the incredible Custom Combo System create a new standard for all games to fight by. Push your talents to the limit as you discover new hidden moves and reversals for every character. Neutralize opponents' attacks with high and low Alpha Counters and execute incredible Custom Combos to create your own rapid-fire assaults. All your favorite warriors are back for more. Previously hidden characters Dan, Akuma and Bison are joined by five new fighters: Rolento, Gen and Sakura, plus classic favorites Dhalsim and Zangief.

Shinobi™
Publisher: SEGA
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Mild Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Here's a bit of helpful advice to all you criminal organizations out there: If you're going to hatch an elaborate plot that involves kidnapping children, don't kidnap children who have ninjas for parents. That was the big mistake that a group called Zeed made when it went after the offspring of the Oboro clan. Now Joe Musashi is on the hunt to rescue the young hostages and take out Zeed's leaders, the Ring of Five. As you scour each stage, leave no children behind - Joe can't proceed to the next level without freeing them all. With an unlimited supply of shuriken, his sharpened katana and his deadly fists and feet, Joe will show Zeed why you don't mess with family.

[utopianmachine]

So is Rayman just a port of Rayment 64 DS?

[utopianmachine]

I was intrigued by the description of Flowerworks Wii, so I went and found the trailer. I think I'll pass. Looks quite insane.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtwT0H9EOrw

[Strell]

So is Rayman just a port of Rayment 64 DS?

I'm going to guess it's actually the original Rayman, which was a 2D side scroller from...gee, how long ago did it debut? The Jaguar I think?

Wouldn't be anything like the DS release, which was a 3D title.

Flowerworks looks neat.

[KingBroly]

Given the latest ESRB ratings for VC games, I see it going down like this:

Next week: Alex Kidd in Shinobi World and Master Blaster
Following week: Pilotwings and Super Smash Bros.

[flameofdoom666]

If the reviews for Rayman are favorable (which I expect it to be), I will purchase it :-)

[utopianmachine]

I'm going to guess it's actually the original Rayman, which was a 2D side scroller from...gee, how long ago did it debut? The Jaguar I think?

I went and found it. Man, talk about old school! Graphics look pretty nifty, and it's certainly stylized.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6eBr40IwlpU

[StarKnightX]

Wonder whether the DSiware port of Rayman is better optimized for the system than the GBA version was. If it is I might have to get it (once I get a DSi).

Not really surprised at seeing SFA2 show up , since I just read a flashback article about it in this month's Nintendo Power. I'm guessing they knew the VC release was coming since it seems too coincidental otherwise.

[Cambot]

Blaster Master is coming this month from Gaijenworks and Sunsoft - plus there's supposed to be some sort of megaton announcement coming from Gaijenworks' Vic Ireland (in cahoots with a newly reformed Sunsoft) about something that may or may not have to do with VC.

[crunchewy]

I've got Rayman 3, I believe it is, for the GBA and can't say that it has captivated me. Seemed pretty generic. Perhaps I didn't give it enough of a try, though.

[fart_bubble]

Blaster Master is coming this month from Gaijenworks and Sunsoft - plus there's supposed to be some sort of megaton announcement coming from Gaijenworks' Vic Ireland (in cahoots with a newly reformed Sunsoft) about something that may or may not have to do with VC.

could see Ireland bringing Albert Odyssey to the VC

[Strell]

Ireland is going to get his own Wii channel. It will be called The Closet and it will take you directly to his eBay page, where copies of Dragon Force will be purchasable for no less than ten million Nintendo Points.

[fart_bubble]

Ireland is going to get his own Wii channel. It will be called The Closet and it will take you directly to his eBay page, where copies of Dragon Force will be purchasable for no less than ten million Nintendo Points.

getting Saturn games on the service would be pretty sweet. Of course, I would hate to see how many blocks a game would take though

[Strell]

My understanding is that the Saturn is notoriously difficult to emulate.

Now if it COULD, that would be awesome. But even then, let's be honest - it'd work better on the 360/PS3, with their storage capacities.

Anyway, I'm not giving Ireland too much credit here, and don't have too much hope for this supposed announcement. But we'll see in two days.

[StarKnightX]

I've got Rayman 3, I believe it is, for the GBA and can't say that it has captivated me. Seemed pretty generic. Perhaps I didn't give it enough of a try, though.

The GBA ports of Rayman really don't do the series justice. Play Rayman 2 or 3 on one of the major consoles to really enjoy the games (or wait for the rumored Rayman 4 , whenever that might come out).

My understanding is that the Saturn is notoriously difficult to emulate.

Now if it COULD, that would be awesome. But even then, let's be honest - it'd work better on the 360/PS3, with their storage capacities.

Anyway, I'm not giving Ireland too much credit here, and don't have too much hope for this supposed announcement. But we'll see in two days.

I've heard that too. Supposedly that's part of the reason HotD has never seen any home port besides the saturn version. I really wish someone could make a good working saturn emulator so that I could play all those saturn games that I never got the chance to play , and probably never will since they won't/can't get ported to any other systems.

[Cao Cao]

Looks like this may be Vic's big news: Sunsoft has acquired all of Nihon Telenet's back-catalog, including series such as XZR/Exile (http://hg101.kontek.net/exile/exile.htm) (An action-RPG, and in the Japanese version you took hard drugs to heal instead of normal RPG restoratives, sort of like Assassin's Creed's basic theme mixed with Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas ;)), Valis (http://hg101.kontek.net/valis/valis.htm) (Action-Platformer, schoolgirl fights demon armies), Cosmic Fantasy, Tenshi no Uta, and El Viento (http://hg101.kontek.net/earnestevans/earnestevans.htm).

Here's an old GameSetWatch article on Nihon Telenet's rise and downfall. (http://www.gamesetwatch.com/2007/12/column_might_have_been_telenet.php)

Source (http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=107353)

Redding, CA – December 10, 2009 – Sunsoft, a division of SUNCORPORATION (JASDAQ: 6736) , has today announced that they have completed the purchase of the entire software library of defunct Japanese game publisher Nihon Telenet. This transfer of intellectual property gives Sunsoft the ability to publish or remake over 100 Telenet titles originally published on key platforms like Nintendo Entertainment System, SEGA Genesis/SEGA CD, and PC-Engine/Turbografx, and Sony Playstation.

Nihon Telenet, also known as Nippon Telenet, who published under the Renovation brand in the USA, was a prolific developer and publisher of popular and well-crafted titles like the Valis Series, El Viento, Earnest Evans, Tenshi No Uta (Poems of the Angel), Exile, and Cosmic Fantasy series, to name only a few. One of the interesting trademarks of a Telenet game was that it was not uncommon to see characters from one title make a guest appearance in a different Telenet game or series.

Kiharu Yoshida, CEO of SUNCORPORATION said of the acquisition, “I am proud to have succeeded in creating a home for this large family of key software. We plan to carefully cultivate the great software base we have purchased with this transaction.”

Victor Ireland, President of GAIJINWORKS was instrumental in helping the deal come about and will assist Sunsoft in the implementation of a publishing plan for existing titles and development plans for those that are chosen to be remade. Ireland effused “After Telenet closed, I was sure there was a way to keep their great ideas and characters alive, and I’m extremely happy that Sunsoft has stepped into that role. There are numerous fantastic products to work with in this acquisition, and there is nothing but amazing possibilities for the Telenet IP as a whole.”

Initial plans are to quickly begin publication of the original software releases on Virtual Console systems available on the Wii and other platforms. Then new development of key titles in the library will be initiated, targeting the best and most-wanted to be remade for current consoles and services. Given that many of the Telenet series had only one of the installments released in the US, some of these Virtual Console and remade releases will be seen for the first time in Western markets.

In the coming months, the order of release for titles from this library will be announced and publication will begin, events sure to work game fans into a frothing lather. Suggestions and comments for the games to be chosen are welcome and can be made on the new Sunsoft USA message boards at www.sunsoftgames.com.

[Halo05]

Niiiiiiiice. This could spare me having to one day buy actual TG16 copies of some stuff.

[LostRoad]

Hmm a remake of Valis will just make me want a remake of Demons Crest even more.

[StarKnightX]

Hmm a remake of Valis will just make me want a remake of Demons Crest even more.

I'd be happy just getting the SNES version (of Demons Crest).

[MisterModest]

This week, Europe got 1 VC game and 3 WiiWare games, Alex Kidd in Shinobi World - SEGA Master System/500 Points, Pallurikio - WiiWare/1000 Points, Rubik's Puzzle Galaxy: RUSH - WiiWare/600 Points, and Tales of Monkey Island - Chapter 4: The Trial and Execution of Guybrush Threepwood - WiiWare/1000 Points.

[Ryukahn]

Tons of games again this week

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD: 11 NEW DOWNLOADS BLAST THEIR WAY TO NINTENDO SYSTEMS


Dec. 14, 2009


The first of this week's new Virtual Console™ releases gives new meaning to the term "underground legend," sending players down a mysterious manhole for a classic subterranean adventure. Another fine addition to the Virtual Console section of the Wii Shop Channel features the iconic hero Earthworm Jim in a fun-packed sequel from the SEGA Genesis era. For the Nintendo DSiWare™ service, a slate of five new games includes everything from the pets of LITTLEST PET SHOP™ to animated puzzles, cooking and magic tricks. For fans of the WiiWare™ service, fast-paced stunt driving and Moki-herding mayhem are among the latest arrivals. Whether you're downloading for yourself or seeking cool, convenient gifts for everyone on your holiday list, look no further than the Wii™ Shop Channel and Nintendo DSi™ Shop for instant gratification.

Virtual Console

Blaster Master™

Original platform: NES™
Publisher: Sunsoft
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Mild Fantasy Violence
Price: 500 Wii Points™
Description: The New York sewers were never like this. You've fallen down a hidden manhole into a world of creatures so terrifying they'd scare the rats away. You can panic and perish, or blast your way through an endless maze of tunnels in search of secret passages to your escape. Masters of the Caverns lay waiting - prehistoric creatures so powerful and gigantic they literally fill your screen. Load your arsenal and get ready for Blaster Master.


Earthworm Jim 2™

Original platform: SEGA Genesis
Publisher: Interplay
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Cartoon Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Superhero annelid Jim and his new sidekick, Snott, are back for an off-the-wall sequel in Earthworm Jim 2. Containing more action than your standard platformer from the Genesis era, each stage has a different style and mission, drawing on game play from different genres, including mazes, trivia contests and arcade-style levels. The game also features music composed by Tommy Tallarico. Do you have what it takes to rescue the Princess?

WiiWare


Stunt Cars™

Publisher: Icon Games Entertainment
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Stunt Cars takes place on elevated racetracks with very little to stop players from accidentally driving off the side. Turbo can be used to make a car go faster, but it can only be used for a limited amount of time in each race. As you progress through the game's four championship cups, you'll unlock special features such as driver achievement awards.


Diatomic

Publisher: Grendel Games
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Mild Fantasy Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Diatomic is a fast retro-arcade action game that takes place inside a set of petri dishes. The safe confines of your petri dish are about to be invaded by nine different diatomic creatures that seek to destroy you. Armed with your shield, tail, strategic intelligence and good reflexes, you stand a good chance of defeating the overwhelming odds. You must stay alive during 65 hectic stages spread over five chapters. The high score list shows what kind of player you are. Playing defensively and gaining an all-out defensive high score is harder to pull off than gaining an all-out offensive high score.

Moki Moki™

Publisher: Natsume Inc.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Comic Mischief
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: It's a mind-bending, gravity-defying puzzler. The Moki are being devoured by the voracious Gromblins, and it's up to you to guide the hapless little guys to safety. Bend, twist and rotate the environment to herd the Moki through a series of brain-teasing puzzles. Along the way, you'll have to contend with deadly pitfalls, spinning blades and shifting gravity. Roll Moki down ramps, grab them with hooks and blast them with jets to guide them safely to the portals. Challenge your skills in 100 unique levels.


Rubik's Puzzle Galaxy: RUSH

Publisher: Two Tribes
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 600 Wii Points
Description: Rubik's Puzzle Galaxy: RUSH is a 3-D puzzle game with more than 70 challenging levels. Players need to guide Cubes to color-coded exit points. Using the Wii Remote™ controller's intuitive controls, players herd the colored cubes along by using Conveyer Belts, Warps, Stop Signs, Directional Signs and Splits. RUSH also includes the original Rubik's Cube as a bonus. Players can attempt to solve one of the four different-sized Cubes alone, compete against a second player or learn how to solve the classic Rubik's Cube.


Nintendo adds new titles to the Nintendo DSi Shop and the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time on Mondays. Users with broadband Internet access can redeem Wii Points or Nintendo DSi Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel. Nintendo DSi Points can be purchased in the Nintendo DSi Shop. A Nintendo Points Card™ can be purchased at retail locations. All points from one Nintendo Points Card must be redeemed in either the Nintendo DSi Shop or the Wii Shop Channel. They are not transferable and cannot be divided between the two systems.
Remember that both Wii and Nintendo DSi feature parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other features, visit Wii.com or NintendoDSi.com.

[Strell]

So Blaster Master did indeed show up.

Earthworm Jim 2 is probably good for some people. I know it's got that one WEIRD level where you are a blind cave toad worm or something, with Moonlight Sonata playing as background music. Wtf it's the Genesis version? Lame MIDI music all around ahoy.

Moki Moki looked interesting at the time it was revealed a while ago, sort of like a Lemmings-meets-Chu Chu Rocket sort of game.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1po5CIAOiEc

The Rubik's game IS Chu Chu Rocket, so I wonder how it is also. I remember someone on here saying "Yeah it's CCR minus all the charm."

[flameofdoom666]

I don't want to sound liek a broken record, but did Castlevania ReBirth launch and I somehow miss it? I have been waiting a while for it, and havn't checked the shop channel.

[Ryukahn]

I don't want to sound liek a broken record, but did Castlevania ReBirth launch and I somehow miss it? I have been waiting a while for it, and havn't checked the shop channel.

You didn't miss it. IGN lists it as a TBA 2010 release date. :-s

[token2k6]

HOLY Chr..! Blaster Master will be mine!! (Too bad we can't get the PS1 gem: Blaster Master: Blasting Again..oh well maybe on the PSN one day..)

[spmahn]

Blaster Master is an all time classic, and in my top 5 for the best games on the NES. It's also on my bucket list for games I need to beat before I die. It's a great game, but it gets hard as shit around level 5. I imagine the game will benefit greatly from being able to save your progress mid game on the Wii. For those that didn't live through the NES era, I implore you to download this game.

[foltzie]

When is the Game Genie going to hit the Virtual Console?

[crunchewy]

Rubik's Puzzle Galaxy: RUSH got a very positive review at nintendolife.com

http://wiiware.nintendolife.com/reviews/2009/12/rubiks_puzzle_galaxy_rush

It sounds pretty good and is by the folks that made Toki Tori. I'll probably pick it up at some time.

[MisterModest]

This week, Europe got 2 VC games and 2 WiiWare games, A Boy and His Blob: Trouble on Blobolonia - NES/500 Points, Street Fighter II' - Champion Edition - TurboGrafx-16/700 Points, Eat! Fat! FIGHT! - WiiWare/1000 Points, and Moki Moki - WiiWare/800 Points.

[ddp72984]

please Nintendo, don't fuck up on Smash Bros before Christmas. PLEASE...

[xeno]

This weeks update: Stolen from Joystiq.

DSiWare
UNO (Gameloft, 1-4 players, 800 DSi Points): Though a version of the classic card game with online play sounds nice, we can't help but notice that it costs a lot more than a deck of cards.

Dragon's Lair (Digital Leisure, 1 player, 800 DSi Points): The first laserdisc game on DSiWare! Guide Dirk the Daring through the castle of the dragon Singe by pressing directional or action buttons at the right moment.

Hot and Cold: A 3D Hidden Object Adventure (Majesco, 1-2 players, 800 DSi Points): The hidden-object game, previously released on cartridge, returns as DSiWare. Warmer!
High Stakes: Texas Hold'Em (Hudson, 1-4 players, 500 DSi Points): The stakes are high indeed -- are you willing to risk 500 of your points on some poker?

myNotebook: Green (Nnooo, 1 player, 200 DSi Points): It's a notebook app, with 18 different (unlockable!) paper styles. If you need one of those, here it is!

WiiWare

Eco Shooter: Plant 530 (Nintendo, 1player, 1,000 Wii Points): Aliens have animated all of Earth's cans, and it's up to you to shoot them down and reclaim their Can Energy in this light gun game developed by Intelligent Systems. Can Energy!

TV Show King 2 (Gameloft, 1-4 players, 800 Wii Points) 8,000 new questions, online play, and the ability to write your own questions. That's why there's a sequel to TV Show King. It was our first question too.

Pallurikio (Playstos Entertainment, 1 player, 1,000 Wii Points): A platformer about a spherical character who can jump and (obviously) roll.

Happy Holidays Christmas (505 Games, 1 player, 500 Wii Points): Create and send Christmas cards to your friends' Wii Message Boards. We couldn't believe this was real when the Halloween version came out, and we don't believe it now.

Virtual Console

Super Smash Bros. (N64, 1-4 players, 1,000 Wii Points): Before Brawl's expansive cast of characters, before trophies, and before Adventure Mode, there was just Super Smash Bros., a game focused entirely on multiplayer fighting for up to four players.

Ninja Gaiden (Arcade, 1-2 players, 600 Wii Points): Virtual Console Arcade pricing is not as standardized as that for other systems, so whenever something shows up for under 800 Points, it's a delightful surprise! Like, for example, the arcade brawler that started the Ninja Gaiden series.

[Ryukahn]

Well, a lot of people seem to have been waiting for Super Smash Bros, so now they get it. Nice present for them.

[Halo05]

I'm more excited for Ninja Gaiden. I used to play the arcade version off and on but I don't think I ever got anywhere. I wonder what level 2 looks like...

[theflicker]

Definitely grabbing Smash Bros. I'm sort of intrigued by Eco Shooter. A shooter developed by Intelligent Systems? :-k

I'll also have to read reviews of Dragon's Lair DS. I never played the original. Is it good? It always looked like too much of a cartoon, which is to say, not interactive enough.

[lilboo]

Uno for.. 800?! Fuck you

[spmahn]

Is the original Smash Brothers worth playing again? I havn't played it since it's original release, but it seems to me that the Gamecube and Wii versions have improved enough upon the formula to render playing the original kind of pointless.

[lilboo]

Is the original Smash Brothers worth playing again? I havn't played it since it's original release, but it seems to me that the Gamecube and Wii versions have improved enough upon the formula to render playing the original kind of pointless.

$10 of actual money.. no, not IMO.
If there's another promotion where you can easily obtain Wii Points..then yes, it'll be worth free 1000 points.

[Strell]

Kirby is overpowered in SSB. Supposedly Ness is as well.

There are people who think SSB is the best in the series. These people also prefer pumping water from an underground well, safely away from the convenience modern life affords.

[mykevermin]

I'm more excited for Ninja Gaiden. I used to play the arcade version off and on but I don't think I ever got anywhere. I wonder what level 2 looks like...

Wise words from a wise man. 600 points is quite a bargain compared to the quarters I pumped in that bastard back in the day.

Unlike my last VC purchase of Fighting Street, which was a terrible idea. I'm so bad at that game, but I blame the horribly unresponsive controls. What a hunk of junk.

[Doomed]

is the original smash brothers worth playing again? I havn't played it since it's original release, but it seems to me that the gamecube and wii versions have improved enough upon the formula to render playing the original kind of pointless.
ssbm>ssb>ssbb

[fart_bubble]

Dragon's Lair and Eco Shooter for me

[Cao Cao]

Looks like there's going to be a Christmas Eve sale on Sega Genesis games on the VC. 500 points each. The announcement was first noticed on the US Wii Shop channel, though it has since been removed, and Sega Europe's blog (http://blogs.sega.com/europe/2009/12/22/happy-holidays-40-off-selected-sega-vc-titles/) confirmed the details (Though we still need a concrete US confirmation). Just a reminder that Sonic & Knuckles supports the lock-on feature (Video (http://vc.sega.jp/vc_sandk/)) with the other VC Sonic games, so if you are planning to get S&K whenever it releases in the US, this may be a good time to pick up the trilogy if you want to play Blue Sphere, KinS2, and/or S3&K in the future.

Sonic The Hedgehog
Sonic The Hedgehog 2
Sonic The Hedgehog 3
Gunstar Heroes
ToeJam & Earl
Puyo Puyo 2
Shining Force
Golden Axe
Altered Beast
Streets Of Rage 2
----------------

Also, here's an epic OFLC (Australian Rating system) update.
http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=381349&page=8
IRONCLAD Computer Games G 22/12/2009 Link (http://www.oflc.gov.au/www/cob/find.nsf/5b6ebdff7f5b9a24ca2575ca00062226/35e19fbceae9b1e2ca2576940057f146!OpenDocument)
CASTLEVANIA: RONDO OF BLOOD Computer Games M 22/12/2009 Link (http://www.oflc.gov.au/www/cob/find.nsf/5b6ebdff7f5b9a24ca2575ca00062226/e7973fa7423de182ca2576940057f167!OpenDocument)

[soonersfan60]

That would be awesome! I hope they sell alot with their "sale" so that other games get a sale from time-to-time as well.

[Halo05]

Ooh. Between the PSN Sega sale and the VC one, I'll be swimming in old Sega stuff. I'm glad I held off on buying a VC game today.

Oh, and Nintendo, if Rondo of Blood gets a US release, I promise to buy a 2000 point card just to cover it. See, it will help everyone.

[Kaoz]

Oh, and Nintendo, if Rondo of Blood gets a US release, I promise to buy a 2000 point card just to cover it. See, it will help everyone.
Is that the one that was remade for psp? Dracula X Chronicles or something.

[Halo05]

Is that the one that was remade for psp? Dracula X Chronicles or something.

Yes. I love the old version.

[Josef]

So VC titles can be put on sale? Is this the first time this has happened?

[Strell]

So VC titles can be put on sale? Is this the first time this has happened?

I believe so.

What's weird is that it implies the publishers - not Nintendo proper - get to make a call in this situation. Which really...flies in the face of conventional logic re: how Nintendo handles such things.

I'm pretty surprised about it. I hope it sets a good precedent.

This starts to get into another bullet point, being that I hate how Nintendo sometimes has to be dragged kicking and screaming into the light (see Wiiware demos increasing sales, even though they were pretty adamant against demos). So I'd love to see this momentary sale jumpstart some downloads, sending a strong message.

[Halo05]

There are things on the VC that I'll be double dipping on thanks to the sale and my interest in saying, "Yes, cheaper prices will work to get more downloads and in the end, more money."

I'll probably get Sonic 2 and 3, Streets of Rage 2, Toe Jam & Earl, and Puyo Puyo 2 assuming they're all 500 points.

[flameofdoom666]

Yes. I love the old version.

The original is unlockable in the PSP version. The 3D engine for the new one replicated the old game really well though. I played and beat both- and there is very little difference. I prefer the 3D one because of the remastered music- but both are phenomenal. Also, SOTN was included which is a huge bonus. You really can't go wrong with Castlevania.

Have you played Order of Ecclesia? I think it may be my favorite in the series, and I have played them all.

[crunchewy]

What's the deal on demos? I haven't checked in a bit - have they added new demos? Did they actually take the first ones away? I fairly recently got a 360, and the availability of demos for all XBLA and Indie games is a huge plus and has resulted in purchases from me (and, yes, in non-sales). Nintendo still needs to get off the ball and put up demos for everything, including VC. Not limited titles/limited time demo bull. I've got a lot of points and I've spent almost none of them because of the unknown factor - I don't want to feel like I wasted my points, and without a demo it's impossible to tell.

I may picked up Toe Jam & Earl if the sale is real, for the nostalgia factor. I've got all the Sonic I could ever want via the PS2 Sonic Mega Collection Plus, so I'm not interested in buying them again.

[Jmclark]

What's the deal on demos? I haven't checked in a bit - have they added new demos? Did they actually take the first ones away? I fairly recently got a 360, and the availability of demos for all XBLA and Indie games is a huge plus and has resulted in purchases from me (and, yes, in non-sales). Nintendo still needs to get off the ball and put up demos for everything, including VC. Not limited titles/limited time demo bull. I've got a lot of points and I've spent almost none of them because of the unknown factor.

They haven't added any new demos. Still just the 5 that they started with. However, they said these will only last "through the holidays", so maybe we'll see new ones after the holidays?

[databuild]

Gunstar Heroes is mine!

[Halo05]

The original is unlockable in the PSP version. The 3D engine for the new one replicated the old game really well though. I played and beat both- and there is very little difference. I prefer the 3D one because of the remastered music- but both are phenomenal. Also, SOTN was included which is a huge bonus. You really can't go wrong with Castlevania.

Have you played Order of Ecclesia? I think it may be my favorite in the series, and I have played them all.

Forgot about this.

Anyhow, I prefer the old one because it is such a formerly obscure bridge between the old and new Castlevanias. I remember firing up Symphony of the Night in 1997 and being awestruck by all the new enemies. Little did I know that many of those enemies weren't new but were actually ripped from Rondo of Blood.

Haven't played OOE, I'll get it someday. Portrait of Ruin kind of turned me off from the DS CV games for awhile.

[Strell]

Ecclesia is 1000000000000000x better than PoR (which had some great ideas with the two hero system, and really should have been exploited more). It's only real issue is that you're being split up across a bunch of smaller areas versus a giant one, which sort of diminishes the whole thing altogether. But the general feeling of saving the countryside and some of the missions/item hunting felt pretty fresh, and the elemental system added to the combat a good bit.

Basically OoE needs a sequel that resolves a few small issues and finely tunes a few others, and it'll be comparable to Symphony.

[ratzombie]

You guys are making me feel bad for not having played Order of Ecclesia yet. >:[

[EXStrike]

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD: PREPARE FOR '10 WITH 10 NEW DOWNLOADABLE GAMES FROM NINTENDO

Dec. 28, 2009
With only a few days left until the end of 2009, Nintendo is already uncorking 10 new games to help you ring in the New Year. Thanks to the ever-expanding WiiWare™ service, you can keep it spooky with a captivating Castlevania title, bulk up sumo-style with Eat! Fat! FIGHT! or customize crazy creatures with RABBIDS LAB. The Virtual Console™ service welcomes the high-flying classic PilotWings™, while a new edition of the timeless pioneer adventure The Oregon Trail® arrives on the Nintendo DSiWare™ service. No matter which of these 10 terrific titles you choose, hoist your Wii Remote™ controller or Nintendo DSi™ stylus and join us in a toast to a fabulous 2010. Cheers!

WiiWare

Castlevania The Adventure ReBirth
Publisher: Konami Digital Entertainment
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: T (Teen) - Animated Blood, Fantasy Violence
Price: 1,000 Wii Points™
Description: Another 100 years have passed since the death of Count Dracula, but his curse has emerged once again within the realms of Transylvania. Play the role of the ultimate gothic hero from the long lineage of vampire hunters, the Belmont clan, and rid the universe of Dracula's legion of darkness and doom. Based on the classic 1989 original Castlevania: The Adventure, this WiiWare version will allow players of a new generation - and older fans - to experience one of the most popular games within the storied Castlevania timeline from a new perspective.

Eat! Fat! FIGHT!
Publisher: TECMO
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Cartoon Violence, Comic Mischief
Price: 1,000 Wii Points
Description: Forget about being healthy. Here's a game that celebrates eating, getting fat and fighting. Hold the Wii Remote controller horizontally and tilt it left, right, up or down to perform all kinds of lifts and throws just like in real sumo. There are also hidden moves like suplexes and scrapbusters thrown in for fun. Use all the moves you learn in tournaments around the world to reach the peak of sumo and become a yokozuna. In ONE PLAYER mode, play eating or sparring mini-games to make your wrestler stronger and change his look. You can also use your own Mii™ character's face on your wrestler. In TWO PLAYER mode, take on another person using default wrestlers or the wrestlers that you have created. (Additional accessories are required for two-player mode and are sold separately.) Chow down, bulk up and fight on to become the strongest sumo wrestler ever.

RABBIDS LAB
Publisher: Ubisoft
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Cartoon Violence
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: A raving Rabbid is stuck inside the Wii Remote controller. Come play with him. First, try interacting with him by moving the Wii Remote or pressing the buttons and seeing how much he loves it. Once you've gotten to know the crazy guy, it's time to change his appearance in the Lab. Mess with his head and place seasonal accessories on him, or change his look entirely with the painting module. When you've made your raving Rabbid completely unique, you can take a photo and send it in a Wii™ message to show your Wii Friends (broadband Internet connection required).

The Magic Obelisk
Publisher: GAME ARTS Co., Ltd.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Comic Mischief
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: The Magic Obelisk is an action-adventure game in which you become Popo, a light spirit. Your mission is to guide Lukus, a tree spirit, to each stage's goal while moving only within the shadow. You can help him do this by shining your light near the mysterious magic obelisks, allowing you to create and connect shadows to solve tricks and gimmicks along the way. Join Lukus as he travels through a light-filled realm filled with quirky creatures and spirits, trying to find the perfect spot to become a tree. Experience meaningful encounters and partings, climb hills, cross rivers and traverse a vast desert on your way to the very edge of the world.

Virtual Console

PilotWings
Original platform: Super NES™
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Mild Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Join the Flight Club to take to the skies and experience a variety of aerial activities. Take off and pilot a biplane through rings along a predetermined flight path, or drift serenely in a hang glider, catching thermal currents to gain altitude. In either case, just be sure to stick the landing. Looking for more speed? Strap on the rocket belt to blast your way around an obstacle course. If that's not enough, reach maximum velocity as you tackle a skydiving lesson at 3,800 feet. Complete specific objectives within a set time limit to score points (and maybe even a bonus chance) and obtain certification in eight different lessons. Your goals will become more challenging, and weather conditions will make controlling your vehicle more difficult as you progress. If you succeed, you will be rewarded with the opportunity to pilot an attack helicopter on a daring rescue mission. It's time to earn your wings.

Nintendo DSiWare

The Oregon Trail
Publisher: Gameloft
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Comic Mischief, Mild Cartoon Violence, Use of Tobacco
Price: 800 Nintendo DSi Points™
Description: Westward, ho! Your favorite pioneering adventure game takes you on an exciting, historic, side-scrolling adventure with your Nintendo DSi™ system. Take the Oregon Trail experience further than ever before with all of the decision-making and problem-solving fun of the original game plus additional challenges. Leave your mark on America's history. Take a picture of yourself at each landmark with the Nintendo DSi system's built-in camera. You'll have your portrait and party's name printed in the Daily Oregon Trail newspaper in the game. Play eight skill-based mini-games that will impact your resources: Hunting, Fishing, River Crossing, Rafting, Wagon Repairing, Telegraph, Berry Picking and Gold Panning. Random events faced by real pioneers - such as disease, bandits and hitchhikers - and side missions add more excitement to your westward trek.

SUDOKU SENSEI
Publisher: Hudson Entertainment
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Introducing 100 “Super Hard Puzzles” for the hardened sudoku veteran. All puzzles are skillfully designed for a level of satisfaction that computer-generated puzzles just can't offer. You can play through puzzles to learn about rules and controls in Tutorials mode. Other handy features include Write Mode and Temp Number for an easier, more enjoyable sudoku experience.

Glow Artisan
Publisher: Powerhead Games
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Solve mind-bending puzzles in this unique and colorful game. Use your wits and ingenuity to solve more than 100 puzzles and earn more than 300 medals. Play Time Trial, Randomizer and Multiplayer modes for an endless supply of new challenges. Create new puzzles with the built-in editor or use the Nintendo DSi Camera application to turn your photos into puzzles.

Master of Illusion™ Express: Psychic Camera
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Master of Illusion Express titles include mind-boggling magic tricks that you perform with your Nintendo DSi system. Learn the illusions, practice them and amaze your friends. Your audience will never look at your Nintendo DSi system the same way again after Master of Illusion Express: Psychic Camera proves that it has psychic powers. Astound others by taking their picture and revealing an item (such as a card, picture, letter or number) that they're thinking about.

Arcade Hoops Basketball
Publisher: Skyworks Interactive, Inc.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: From Skyworks comes the slickest basketball game for the Nintendo DSi system. See how many baskets you can sink in a fast-moving 45 seconds, using only your stylus and, of course, your lightning-fast hand-eye coordination. Arcade Hoops features your choice of three rockin' soundtracks, state-of-the-art 3-D graphics and thrilling, high-speed game play for the most fun possible in under a minute. Advanced hoopsters can move on to the progressive level, where a moving basket provides an additional challenge - plus the chance to rack up even more points. For the real pros, there's 3 Point mode, where speed and accuracy are a must as you shoot “threes” from downtown.

Nintendo adds new titles to the Nintendo DSi Shop and the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time on Mondays. Users with broadband Internet access can redeem Wii Points or Nintendo DSi Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel. Nintendo DSi Points can be purchased in the Nintendo DSi Shop. A Nintendo Points Card™ can be purchased at retail locations. All points from one Nintendo Points Card must be redeemed in either the Nintendo DSi Shop or the Wii Shop Channel. They are not transferable and cannot be divided between the two systems.

Remember that both Wii and Nintendo DSi feature parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other features, visit Wii.com (http:///) or NintendoDSi.com (http://nintendodsi.com/).


Game Arts made a WiiWare game?

[Ryukahn]

Nice to finally see Castlevania available.

[token2k6]

holy crap that is an epic list!

[Strell]

Castlevania, Magic Obelisk, Pilotwings, and (potentially) Oregon Trail. Good week.

[maximumzero]

Tentatively interested in the Game Arts title. Awaiting impressions.

[flybrione]

Yes. I need to get a card today and finally get Excitebike and Castlevania.

[flameofdoom666]

While I will still get Castlevania (I love the series)... I was much more hyped about it in OCTOBER!

[Sir_Fragalot]

Wow pilotwings, that only took 18,000 years. Looks like a pretty uneventful week for me because I am too lazy to hook my Wii up and I don't have points.

[fart_bubble]

damn, wish I saved the two point cards I got for Christmas. Castlevania, EAT! FAT! FIGHT! and The Magic Obelisk will be mine

[ratzombie]

Finally, Castlevania Rebirth. :drool:

[mykevermin]

Will definitely pick up Castlevania. I remember that one of my top five successes in life was actually finishing the Game Boy original. Still have it mint and complete in the box, in fact. Can't wait until someone buys it on Amazon from me.

Other than CV, another week of "why don't VC get no love, yo?" from me.

[Monsta Mack]

Thanks I bought my first Wii downloadable game (Castlevania) don't know what I'll spend the other 1000 pts on though.

[Kaoz]

Thanks I bought my first Wii downloadable game (Castlevania) don't know what I'll spend the other 1000 pts on though.


Depending on which suits you more, Ill kick out my two favorite games.

1. Nyxquest Kindred Spirits. Platformer that uses the IR aiming I loved it.
2. Swords and Soldiers, 2d RTS, I liked it a lot. Would have sunk countless hours into it if it had online multiplayer.



I am assuming this Castlevania has the very high difficulty of a classic Castlevania game? Since it is a remake.

[yeah-yeah]

2. Swords and Soldiers, 2d RTS, I liked it a lot. Would have sunk countless hours into it if it had online multiplayer.

I'm glad you mentioned this one, because I wasn't very impressed with it. I really don't like that as soon as you create an offensive unit that they just start marching. It made me feel like the bulk of the strategy was how quickly you can create an offensive unit. I like to have time to think and plan a bit when playing RTSs.

[flameofdoom666]

How brutal is Castlevania? I haven't picked it up yet.

[Halo05]

How brutal is Castlevania? I haven't picked it up yet.

It's pretty manageable. I just got it today and made it into level three on my first credit. What I didn't expect was the number of different paths, mini-bosses and the like. It is exceedingly well done. The music is stellar as well.

[Kaoz]

I'm glad you mentioned this one, because I wasn't very impressed with it. I really don't like that as soon as you create an offensive unit that they just start marching. It made me feel like the bulk of the strategy was how quickly you can create an offensive unit. I like to have time to think and plan a bit when playing RTSs.

Fair enough, I was apprehensive about getting it because of that myself. But there still is a fair amount of strategy, later on in the levels. Just spawning units as fast as you can will get you crushed.

I can certainly see someone not liking the game tho'.

Im interested in catlevania, loved sotn and dawn of sorrow on the ds, but OOE kicked my ass on the second boss, so I'm worried about difficulty.

[Cao Cao]

Apparently, Fast Draw Showdown is set for Wiiware next Monday:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3KSA0rY43Rc

[MisterModest]

Last week, on Christmas Day, Europe got 2 WiiWare games, The Mystery of Whiterock Castle - WiiWare/700 Points, and TV Show King 2 - WiiWare/800 Points.

This week, Europe got 2 WiiWare games, Happy Hammerin' - WiiWare/500 Points, and Tomena Sanner - WiiWare/500 Points.

[Purple Flames]

In for Castlevania. Time to grab another points card.

Apparently, Fast Draw Showdown is set for Wiiware next Monday:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3KSA0rY43Rc

I used to love that game in the arcade. When it comes out I'll definitely grab it.

[Ryukahn]

Final Fight 3

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD: A NEW DECADE BRINGS SEVEN NEW DOWNLOADABLE NINTENDO GAMES
Jan. 4, 2010
Should old acquaintance be forgot? We can't remember. But what we can remember is that this week's downloadable lineup from Nintendo asks a lot of questions. The Nintendo DSiWare™ service wonders if you can master missiles with Trajectile™, lead animals to their proper pens with Animal Puzzle Adventure or match wits with TV chef Gordon Ramsay in Hell's Kitchen Vs. The WiiWare™ service puts you in charge of maximizing your rubber duckie output with Heron: Steam Machine, asks you to aim for the bull's-eye with Pub Darts and wonders if you have an itchy trigger finger with Fast Draw Showdown. Finally, Final Fight™ 3 on the Virtual Console™ service makes you wonder if the fight is ever really final.



WiiWare


Heron: Steam Machine
Publisher: Triangle Studios
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Wii Points™
Description: Heron: Steam Machine is a game about a factory where rubber duckies are being produced by a large steam engine. On this steam engine, there are four different gauges which you will have to watch carefully. By connecting the pipes, you will earn points and relieve some of the pressure, keeping the machine running just a little bit longer. If one of the gauges reaches its maximum, the machine will eventually blow up, and the game is over. If you were lucky enough to achieve a high score, make sure you enter your name in the list so other players can compete with you. In Multiplayer, you are able to cooperate with friends in maintaining the steam machine. When you play with two, three or four players, the screen is divided into sections with different background colors. Each player is able to solve his or her own part of the puzzle. Players are restricted to their own section of the screen, so you will have to work together to make the pipes fit properly. (Additional accessories are required for multiplayer play and are sold separately.)


Pub Darts
Publisher: Big Blue Bubble Inc.
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Alcohol Reference
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: Pub Darts is a simple darts simulation which uses the Wii Remote™ controller's unique controls to mimic dart-throwing motion. The game is set in a local pub where the players will settle in to play some of their favorite dart games, including 501, Cricket, Around the Clock, Killers and Baseball. Controls function just like throwing a real dart. Players are able to create their own personal profiles, including selecting their avatar image from a collection of creative characters and the design they would like displayed on the dart flights.


Fast Draw Showdown
Publisher: Digital Leisure Inc.
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: T (Teen) - Alcohol Reference, Violence
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: When it comes to fast draw there're only two types of people: the quick ... and the dead! Now you have the chance to find out where you stand, or lie, as the case may be. You'll go up against the best quick draws in the business, including one of the world's fastest, Wes Flowers. Unholster your Wii Remote controller and show 'em who the fastest draw really is, in this live-action shooter. You can even take on a friend in multiplayer modes, and see which of you has the quickest draw. You'll need some serious speed and awesome accuracy to take on these gunslingers ... so get ready for some real fast draw action.


Virtual Console


Final Fight 3
Original platform: Super NES™
Publisher: Capcom USA
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: T (Teen) - Animated Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Following the defeat and subsequent disappearance of the Mad Gear Gang, a small group known only as "Skull Cross" is responsible for a new uprising of vandalism, terrorism and death. The government of Metro City is at a complete loss. Metro City's mayor, Mike Haggar, and Guy are prepared to take on the new gang, but before they can act, the door bursts open, revealing Lucia, Cody's old friend. "Metro City is under attack!" she shouts, "Skull Cross is loose, and they've got something up their sleeves." But before any of them can move, a mysterious man appears in the doorway. "My name is Dean," he says. "I know Skull Cross inside-and-out, and I hate them more than anything. I can help you, and you can help me. We must go!" All four fighters vow to bring Skull Cross down. It will be a tough assignment, and may even be their final fight!


Nintendo adds new titles to the Nintendo DSi Shop and the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time on Mondays. Users with broadband Internet access can redeem Wii Points or Nintendo DSi Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel. Nintendo DSi Points can be purchased in the Nintendo DSi Shop. A Nintendo Points Card™ can be purchased at retail locations. All points from one Nintendo Points Card must be redeemed in either the Nintendo DSi Shop or the Wii Shop Channel. They are not transferable and cannot be divided between the two systems.


Remember that both Wii and Nintendo DSi feature parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other features, visit Wii.com or NintendoDSi.com.

[soonersfan60]

Japan just got or is getting Parodius! I hope that comes over to U.S.

[Strell]

Ok, so, the ESRB blurb about Muscle March is awesome: (http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=109709)

It may also mean that between stages, the happy bodybuilders can dance together in space, throw rocks by the riverside, or flex their pectorales major on menu screens (the lone female bodybuilder flexes her chest muscles, too).

Dance together. In SPACE.

[foltzie]

Ok, so, the ESRB blurb about Muscle March is awesome: (http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=109709)

Dance together. In SPACE.

I know the game is awful, but I may have to get it for party fun... I could easily have seen this as an option for New Years... Granted Beatles Rock Band stole the show, but I know I could have convinced a few folks to save the Protein Powder.

[Purple Flames]

Wow I was expecting Fast Draw to be around 1000 points. It's a steal at an NES game price.

[yeah-yeah]

Ok, so, the ESRB blurb about Muscle March is awesome: (http://gonintendo.com/viewstory.php?id=109709)



Dance together. In SPACE.

I like this one:

"...destroyed by the Posing Ones"

Sounds like a metal album title.

[Cao Cao]

Apparently, Chronos Twin DX is set for next week:
http://wiiware.nintendolife.com/news/2010/01/time_split_chronos_twins_dx_gets_a_date

[Kaoz]

Apparently, Chronos Twin DX is set for next week:
http://wiiware.nintendolife.com/news/2010/01/time_split_chronos_twins_dx_gets_a_date

That looks pretty interesting, might be a buy.

[Cao Cao]

Capcom also confirmed that Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney will be releasing next week, which isn't entirely surprising, seeing as how the Japanese version has an English option.
http://www.siliconera.com/2010/01/06/phoenix-wright-ace-attorney-ready-for-wiiware-next-week/

[seanr1221]

Anyone import the Classic Controller pro?

[Halo05]

Yes. Back when Play-asia had one of their 20% off everything in stock sales. It's good but I still like the SFC controller more (for games that it works with).

[seanr1221]

Since you like that other controller more, sell me your pro ;)

[Halo05]

No wai. I hoard controllers like a dragon hoards gold coins.

[MisterModest]

This week, Europe got 1 VC game and 2 WiiWare games, Shadow Dancer: The Secret of the Shinobi - SEGA Genesis/800 Points, Stop Stress: A Day of Fury - WiiWare/800 Points, and Stunt Cars - WiiWare/800 Points.

[crunchewy]

Muscle March was rated by the ESRB, but their description of the game is perhaps the highlight. See: http://www.siliconera.com/2010/01/04/muscle-march-as-described-by-the-esrb/

[ratzombie]

Damn protein thieves.

[foltzie]

Damn protein thieves.

Liboo?

[Strell]

Muscle March reminds me of this:

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xx7g9_yyyyyyyyyyyy_fun

I really wish I could find a way to embed this.

IT'S NOT A BRA
IT'S NOT A BRA

[Doomed]

what is this i don't even

[yeah-yeah]

Muscle March reminds me of this:

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xx7g9_yyyyyyyyyyyy_fun

I really wish I could find a way to embed this.

IT'S NOT A BRA
IT'S NOT A BRA

You mean that isn't Muscle March? Awww, crap. I remember the same video posted in the old thread and for some reason I thought they were the same game.

Hey Strell, why are you wearing a bra?

[Strell]

Hey Strell, why are you wearing a bra?

ShizukaNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

[yeah-yeah]

ShizukaNEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

Definitely a bra.

[Rodimus]

Anyone import the Classic Controller pro?

I picked one up several months ago. I love it.

Been playing Castlevania: Adventures ReBirth. Got to Death but he wasted me.

[Sir_Fragalot]

Any news about pilotwings 64? I been waiting forever for that fucking game. Since the original got released, it would be nice to see the sequel.

[pete5883]

WiiWare™

Phoenix Wright™: Ace Attorney
Publisher: Capcom
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: T (Teen) - Blood, Language, Suggestive Themes, Violence
Price: 1,000 Wii Points™
Description: Meet Phoenix Wright, the rookie defense lawyer new to the scene with the wildest cross-examination skills in town. Take on four intriguing cases to reveal dramatic, stunning and even comical court proceedings. Use the Wii Remote controller to investigate the crime scenes, question witnesses and present shocking evidence.

Chronos Twins DX
Publisher: EnjoyUp Games
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E 10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Animated Blood, Mild Fantasy Violence
Price: 1,000 Wii Points
Description: Enter into the original world of Chronos Twins DX to live a fantastic adventure full of innovative ideas. Thanks to its Dual Gameplay game system, you'll be able to control Nec in two temporal scenarios at the same time. Chronos Twins DX mixes action, platforms, adventure and puzzles to challenge your intelligence and ability.

ShadowPlay
Publisher: Deep Fried Entertainment
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Alcohol Reference
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Welcome to ShadowPlay. Let your imagination run wild when light meets everyday objects to create fascinating shadows. Play and experiment, make a monster out of a pineapple, a dolphin out of a banana - the only limit is your imagination. ShadowPlay challenges players by transforming shadows into more than 100 exciting, unique puzzles. As more challenging puzzles are unlocked, players will have to find more creative ways to solve problems. You will never look at a slice of pizza the same way again! Winning a round will allow players to advance to the next level as well as score another item to use in the Free Play Mode, where you can unleash your imagination and create your own shadow art. Family and friends can also jump in to help tackle a puzzle at any time using Local Co-op Mode. ShadowPlay will provide tons of brain-racking fun for players of all ages. How do you ShadowPlay?

Nintendo DSiWare™

Touch Solitaire
Publisher: Nintendo
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 200 Nintendo DSi Points™
Description: Touch Solitaire features two of the most popular versions of the world-famous card game - Spider and Klondike - with simple touch-screen controls and an easy-to-understand interface. In Spider, the aim is to arrange cards in piles of a single suit from King down to Ace, thereby removing the pile from play. When all cards are removed, you win the game. The goal of Klondike is to arrange cards from Ace to King in piles, one for each suit, on the four foundations. You win when all cards have been moved to the foundations. Various difficulty levels are available for Spider and Klondike, allowing beginners or experts to enjoy the game at their own pace.

Jazzy Billiards
Publisher: Aksys Games
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: Challenge intelligent computers or even your friends to a traditional game of 9-ball while enjoying mind-soothing music with Jazzy Billiards. Take advantage of the intuitive stylus mechanic to aim and hit the cue ball with varying strength to sink the other balls. Defeat your opponents by being the first to sink the 9-ball. Jazzy Billiards' Stage Mode features nine different stages, each with an opponent of ascending difficulty. Find out how many computers you can defeat in a row with Challenge Mode, or challenge your friends to a game of 9-ball in Versus Mode.

Word Searcher
Publisher: Digital Leisure Inc.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Nintendo DSi Points
Description: You'll need a sharp eye and a quick mind to complete these 100 themed word search puzzles. Word Searcher contains fun words from multiple categories including anatomy, world cities and U.S. presidents. Packed with a huge assortment of subjects to choose from, there's sure to be a puzzle anyone will enjoy. Help improve your vocabulary, memory and problem-solving skills with these challenging puzzles. Keep track of, and try to beat, your own play-through times again and again as words are scrambled every time you play. Get your thinking cap on and conquer all 100 today.

Virtual Console™

Shanghai® II: Dragon's Eye
Original platform: Genesis
Publisher: SEGA
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: The ancient pastime of mahjong solitaire is reinvented as an interactive video game where each tile you remove may be your last. Discover enchanting music, fun animation and exciting obstacles that are built in to this intriguing board game that will keep you engaged for hours. This classic title challenges you to clear the board by removing matching pairs of tiles. Play the traditional Shanghai® II or take the game to a new dimension with Dragon's Eye. Don't let the simple rules deceive you - the depth and intricacy of this challenge will become your new obsession very soon.

I think ShadowPlay might be a game that lets you act out your own death, but I know no more.

[utopianmachine]

Interesting Wiiware options. Excited that Phoenix Wright will now be available for folks that never played the DS originals. That series remains my favorite on the DS.

[crunchewy]

I think ShadowPlay might be a game that lets you act out your own death, but I know no more.

Shadowplay, as in making shadows on the wall. There is a gameplay video at nintendolife.com: http://wiiware.nintendolife.com/news/2010/01/shadows_come_out_to_play_next_monday

For 800 points this might be a good buy, but I don't know. A demo would help. Oh well.

Oh, and it uses the Wii Motion Plus. Requires it (EDIT: I think it requires it. It definitely supports it.)

Interesting Wiiware options. Excited that Phoenix Wright will now be available for folks that never played the DS originals. That series remains my favorite on the DS.

But I don't get why they are just porting the existing game. Why not make a new one? Probably anyone who would want to play the game already played the original and why would you want to play it again? There is no replay value.

[RedvsBlue]

Is there any news on when Mega Man 10 releases? I can't imagine it will take that long to produce it.

[nuttyturnip]

Is there any news on when Megan Man 10 releases? I can't imagine it will take that long to produce it.

Recovering from a sex change operation takes time.

[Halo05]

A fucking Mah Jong game? Really? Are we trying to see how few downloads a VC game can get in North America to justify an eventual stop to the service?

Fuck you whale and fuck you dolphin.

[RedvsBlue]

Recovering from a sex change operation takes time.

Haha, well played.

[multicoloredyoshi]

Well I'm cool with the Phoenix Wrights coming to wiiware as I missed those and only have Apollo Justice. $10 is a nice price for these games too. Too bad I've already spent too much on games this month or I would be getting this today.

[utopianmachine]

The DSiWare Solitaire and Billiards are so beneath my interest. Clubhouse Games covers so many bases.

[Ryukahn]

Is there any news on when Mega Man 10 releases? I can't imagine it will take that long to produce it.


IIRC, it's due out in March.

[Sir_Fragalot]

A fucking Mah Jong game? Really? Are we trying to see how few downloads a VC game can get in North America to justify an eventual stop to the service?

Fuck you whale and fuck you dolphin.

I seriously think so. It's one thing if you put it on Wiiware or DSI, but a Genesis Mah Jons game? Seriously what the fuck.

[vherub]

when did excitebike get updated and what's the update do?

[crunchewy]

Excitebike got an update? I'll have to check for it.

[pete5883]

Shadowplay, as in making shadows on the wall. There is a gameplay video at nintendolife.com: http://wiiware.nintendolife.com/news/2010/01/shadows_come_out_to_play_next_monday

Sorry, I thought someone would get it (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shadowplay_%28song%29).

[Kaoz]

Max and the Magic Marker is scheduled for release in Europe on the 22nd, they have a demo of the game up on their official site. http://maxandthemagicmarker.com/demo/

Seems really fun to me, I am a sucker for these 2d sidescrollers that use the IR aiming on WiiWare. Hopefully it will come to NA shortly after Europe gets it, and I wont be waiting a long time.

[crunchewy]

Max and the Magic Marker looks fun. I may have to pick that up once released here.

[MisterModest]

This week, Europe got 1 WiiWare game, Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney - 1000 Points/WiiWare.

[Ch33pSh33p]

Muscle March is coming to NA this Monday for 500 pts, lol should be interesting...

[BlueLobstah]

WiiWare™

Muscle March
Publisher: NBGI
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E 10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Comic Mischief
Price: 500 Wii Points™
Description: Muscle March is a quirky Japanese action game stuffed full of macho bodybuilders. The all mighty protein powder has been stolen, so it's up to Tony and his muscle-bound crew to catch the thieves. Choose from a variety of perfectly molded superstars and bring these terrible villains to justice. As the thieves attempt escape, they will smash through walls while making a variety of poses. You must match these poses to fit through the holes and catch up to the thieves. The protein powder will be yours again! Flex your muscles by yourself or with up to three friends in turn-based macho excitement. Posing for a few minutes not enough? Enjoy Endless Rush mode until your muscles bulge and explode! Muscle March will also be the first WiiWare title to offer a polar bear in tight swimwear!

The Amazing Brain Train!
Publisher: Wahoo Studios
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 600 Wii Points
Description: All aboard! Power up your intellect and embark on an epic quest aboard The Amazing Brain Train! Fueled by your mental energy, Professor Fizzwizzle's Brain Train will take you on a brain-boosting adventure. Put your mighty mind to the test and see how far you can go.

Virtual Console™

Shadow Dancer: The Secret of Shinobi
Original platform: Genesis
Publisher: SEGA
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E 10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Fantasy Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: Easy to play, hard to master, Shadow Dancer: The Secret of Shinobi, first released in 1987, is the sequel to the original Shinobi arcade game, and is one of the only games in the Shinobi series to feature true arcade-style game play. Play as Joe Musashi, the master ninja known to his enemies only as "The Shinobi." This battle is not one you must fight alone, as this is the first game in the Shinobi series to feature your ninja attack dog, Yamoto, who will charge foes on command, leaving them open to a powerful drop kick. Use your mastery of ancient ninja technique to topple the crime syndicate - the Neo Zeed Corporation - and free the foreign dignitaries they have taken hostage in New York City. Good luck, and may the ninja spirits help guide you in your journey.



The somewhat familiar recent trend of 1 VC title per week is lame, but good to see Muscle March finally come over.

[ChibiJosh]

500 points for Muscle March. Certainly picking that up.

[Halo05]

I already have Shadow Dancer on at least one Genesis compilation so thanks but no thanks there but...

...at least I wouldn't have to go on the internet to figure out how to play it ala Shanghai II.

I'm calling it, I'll bitch about Shanghai II until the middle of February or we get Rondo of Blood, whichever comes first.

[Cao Cao]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zd-5UYmmDsk

[ratzombie]

Awesome trailer. I also like how the website looks like a crappy informational website.

GET BIG GET DEFINED GET PUMPED

[rocky435]

I saw the trailer for the game months ago.

1. I didn't realize the game is 5 bucks=instant buy for me. :D

2. Namco Bandai is publisher of the game. Which means maybe this could be a noby noby boy/katamari successor of these games in the sense of something original new for them.

3. Men in speedos with a polar in said clothing makes it instant win.

[n8rockerasu]

Wow! I can't believe they released Fast Draw Showdown! (yeah, I haven't bothered to check the thread for a couple weeks). I actually played that game for the first time in Dodge City, Kansas on a family vacation when I was like 14. Just downloaded it now and it is everything I remember...except now I don't have to burn quarters to enjoy it.

I think I'm having as much fun with this game as I did the first time I played Wii Bowling. No other game has really reproduced that initial feeling of excitement, but being able to shoot FMV characters in my living room blows my freaking mind. And you're damn right...I'm using my Perfect Shot, haha. 8-)

"I just shot my lawyer. It's been a pretty good day, so far..."
"How many times do I have to tell you? Put it back in the holster!"

Ah, takes me back. :)

[MisterModest]

This week, Europe got 2 WiiWare games, Fast Draw Showdown - WiiWare/500 Points, and Max & the Magic Marker - WiiWare/1000 Points.

[Cao Cao]

http://www.esrb.org/ratings/synopsis.jsp?Certificate=28528
It might be worth pointing out that Castlevania: Rondo of Blood was recently rated by the ESRB.

[BlueLobstah]

WiiWare

UNO
Publisher: Gameloft
Players: 1-6
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 1,000 Wii Points™
Description: Get ready to call "UNO" on your Wii™ system! The world-famous card game is faithfully reproduced for the Wii console with some exciting new rules. Thanks to a multiplayer mode (additional Wii Remote™ controllers required) that's playable on one Wii console or online via Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection (broadband Internet access required), UNO has never been so fun and easy.

bittos+
Publisher: MACHINE
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: The next big thing in casual gaming, bittos+ is all about rotating, moving and placing game pieces onto a game board to make squares and, more importantly, squares within squares. Playing bittos+ provides hours and hours of entertainment for the whole family, with boatloads of challenge and replay value for even the most avid gamer. With luscious environments, multiple modes to unlock, game styles to suit every mood, multiple real-time reactive control methods, in-game Awards to collect and high-score boards for the entire your household, bittos+ is a new game-play experience that will sweep you away.

"Aha! I Found It!" Hidden Object Game
Publisher: Ateam Inc.
Players: 1-4
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: A hidden-object game for everyone has come to the WiiWare service. Try to find 12 particular items among a crowd of on-screen objects as fast as you can, from big fish to tiny earrings, easy-to-find items to well-hidden ones. Unlike most other hidden-object games, this one lets you play along with friends and family (additional Wii Remote controllers required) and compete to see who's best at finding the hidden objects in each stage. With 10 stages and more than 277 different items, there's plenty of searching fun to enjoy. Also, with items changing position each time you play, you can enjoy each stage again and again.

Virtual Console

Ghoul Patrol
Original platform: Super NES
Publisher: LucasArts
Players: 1-2
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) – Mild Fantasy Violence
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: The main attractions at the library's Goblin exhibit have come to life! As the Ghoul Patrol, you'll go back in time and de-spook an encyclopedia of zombified historic dudes. Vaporize garbage-can ghosts and ninja spirits, rescue bug-eyed librarians and wigged-out pirates, dodge flying books and adolescent-eating plants, and ultimately put the beastly spirit back in the history books.


Yay, Uno?

[Sir_Fragalot]

Pretty meh week. What annoys me is UNO is $10 on Wiiware but 400 MS points on XBLA. I am glad UNO came out though because UNO fucking rocks.

[crunchewy]

If they put out an online version of the card game Pit, with Wii Speak support (required, of course) and a virtual bell... now that would rock. :) UNO I don't get the love for. It's right up their with Shoots & Ladders as games I'd rather not play, but will for the sake of my kids. OK, it's not really as bad as Shoots & Ladders....

[Gothic Walrus]

Pretty meh week. What annoys me is UNO is $10 on Wiiware but 400 MS points on XBLA.

This is because UNO has been out on XBLA forever, is available for less than $5 if you pick up the right Arcade compilation disc, and there are a ton of free copies floating around thanks to all of the Vision Cam bundles. If they charged more than $5, nobody would pay for it.

The Wii version doesn't have ANY of that in its favor, so they can get away with that.

[ChibiJosh]

No one cares about the ZAMN sequel? Lots of people were happy when the original came out. Is it a lot worse?

[fart_bubble]

No one cares about the ZAMN sequel? Lots of people were happy when the original came out. Is it a lot worse?

probably because hardly anyone had actually played the sequel

[Halo05]

The youtube videos I watched looked pretty mediocre.

Bring on Rondo of Blood.

Also, hey Nintendo, screw you for that Mah Jong game from a few weeks back. Fucking ridiculous.

[MisterModest]

This week, Europe got 1 VC game, and 1 WiiWare game, Street Fighter Alpha 2 - SNES/800 Points, and 530 Eco Shooter - WiiWare/1000 Points.

[Cao Cao]

NoJ posted next month's VC titles for Japan. As Somnid said, it's a slim lineup, but it seems to hint that Capcom/Nintendo may release MM 4/5/6 in preparation for 10, just like they brought 1/2/3 out on the VC around the time that 9 was released.
From GAF (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=383930&page=10):
FC:
Mega Man 4 (Capcom)

SFC:
Super Famicom Wars (Nintendo)

MSX:
Quarth (Konami)
Contra (Konami)

[soonersfan60]

I'm thrilled to see more VC games (even if it is just MSX for now).

[Sir_Fragalot]

No one cares about the ZAMN sequel? Lots of people were happy when the original came out. Is it a lot worse?

I never even heard of the sequel until I checked this thread like 2 mins ago.

Also yay for more VC games, hopefully they will start doing two a week at some point. I would really like to see some good VC games not the shit we have been getting.

[fart_bubble]

been nice if there would be more imports coming out on the service.

Or getting Warsong (US release of Langrisser) would be cool as well

[Ryukahn]

Not much from Wiiware/VC

NINTENDO DOWNLOAD: SWING TRUE, BET BIG AND VANQUISH EVIL WITH NEW GAME DOWNLOADS

Feb. 1, 2010
Golf fanatics who can't hit the real-life links again till springtime will be especially pleased with this week's new downloadable game lineup. True Swing Golf Express for the Nintendo DSiWare™ service delivers deep fairway action that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere. Another Nintendo DSiWare release, Legends of Exidia, offers a timeless clash between good and evil that RPG enthusiasts won't want to miss, while Move your Brain Rollway Puzzle lets players tilt and turn their Nintendo DSi™ system to complete fun puzzle challenges. For the WiiWare™ service, the fifth and final Tales of Monkey Island chapter brings an outrageous adventure series to a memorable close this week. Poker, solitaire, intrepid insects and a SEGA Master System classic help to round out a diverse and inviting set of new arrivals.

WiiWare

Tales of Monkey Island: Chapter 5
Publisher: Telltale Games
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10 and Older) - Alcohol Reference, Cartoon Violence, Mild Language, Mild Suggestive Themes
Price: 1,000 Wii Points™
Description: Here's a shocking series finale that's sure to shiver your timbers. With the Monkey Island world in tatters at the conclusion of the fourth Tales of Monkey Island chapter, we were left to wonder: Who can save the Caribbean?! LeChuck is revealing surprising new characteristics yet again, Guybrush has met a shocking fate and Elaine must confront the ultimate evil with everything at stake. This adventure takes you far beyond the stormy isles as you experience the Rise of the Pirate God.

Tumblebugs 2
Publisher: Gameshastra Inc.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 800 Wii Points
Description: There's a battle brewing in the backyard, and only you can save the day. Tumblebugs is the hit action-puzzler in which Black Bugs round up and trap the peaceful underground Tumblebugs. Now the Black Bugs are back - meaner, faster and nastier. They've crashed the garden party and are rounding up the colored beetles. Once again it's Tumble to the rescue, but this time she's got backup. Call on your friends to help you battle your way through 89 stunning new levels. Thrilling new power-ups can also help you free bugs like never before.

5 in 1 Solitaire
Publisher: Digital Leisure Inc.
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: Now you can play five of the most popular solitaire games on your Wii™ console. 5 in 1 Solitaire features the always-popular Klondike, Spider and FreeCell games as well as the unique Golf and Gaps versions of solitaire. Each of these versions has a unique style of play that's easy enough for novice players to enjoy but will also challenge experts. You can also view tutorials for each game, track your scores and view gaming stats to see your progress.

Virtual Console™

Alex Kidd in Shinobi World™
Original platform: SEGA Master System
Publisher: SEGA
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: E (Everyone) - Mild Cartoon Violence
Price: 500 Wii Points
Description: What do you get when you combine the monumental SEGA classics Alex Kidd in Miracle World™ and Shinobi™? Alex Kidd in Shinobi World, of course! Though never released in Japan, this game has it all: Alex Kidd, kidnapped princesses and evil Dark Ninjas, all played to a rockin', remixed Shinobi soundtrack. Run, jump, swim and slash your way through 12 stages teeming with monstrous foes from the world of Shinobi, plus some more lighthearted ones from Alex Kidd. Just don't let the barracudas turn you into sushi!

Nintendo adds new titles to the Nintendo DSi Shop and the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time on Mondays. Users with broadband Internet access can redeem Wii Points or Nintendo DSi Points to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel. Nintendo DSi Points can be purchased in the Nintendo DSi Shop. A Nintendo Points Card™ can be purchased at retail locations. All points from one Nintendo Points Card must be redeemed in either the Nintendo DSi Shop or the Wii Shop Channel. They are not transferable and cannot be divided between the two systems.

Remember that both Wii and Nintendo DSi feature parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other features, visit Wii.com (http://wii.com/) or NintendoDSi.com (http://nintendodsi.com/).

[utopianmachine]

Since I got a 360 around October and have been exposed to the glory that is Arcade games, the Wii just seems so...mediocre.

[crunchewy]

The 360 XBLA is certainly great, but I hate the way download games are accessed on the 360. I mean ones you've downloaded. It's so clunky. You can have games and not even know it. If I could just have a page or two of my own, to arrange as I want, like on the Wii.... It's all made up for, though, by having demos for all XBLA and Indie games. If Nintendo does nothing else, they at least need to add universal demos for WiiWare, VC and DSiWare. I suspect I'd be buying a lot more such titles, and having a higher happiness-with ratio, if I could just try them first. I know there's a ton of good VC games alone that I should probably buy, but I just can't pull the trigger on since I can't try them first.

[Ryukahn]

I know there's a ton of good VC games alone that I should probably buy, but I just can't pull the trigger on since I can't try them first.

I feel the exact same way. It would be easy for me to rattle off 10+ games that people seem to enjoy on the VC that I do not own, but throwing down money for them is just not smart for me. College means limited funds, so buying things without playing them and knowing what I am getting into does not make a lot of sense. This problem is furthered on the Wii since you do not have a universal account that you can move to another system should you sell your current one or something else happens to the system. I would be much more inclined to purchase games if I knew they had some kind of permanent transfer option.

[MisterModest]

This week, Europe got 1 VC game and 2 WiiWare games, Final Fight 3 - SNES/800 Points, "Aha! I Found It!" Hidden Object Game - WiiWare/500 Points, and Excitebike: World Challenge - WiiWare/1000 Points.

[Kaoz]

I grabbed Max and the Magic Marker for PC this morning, I have beaten the first world )of 3).

The puzzles have all boiled down to the same thing, building a makeshift staircase/ladder to reach a high area ... hoping it gets better but so far it is pretty meh. Seems short too, took me 40 minutes to do 1/3rd of the game, would have taken less time if I was using a mouse or wiimote (am using a touchpad on a laptop, slowing me down a good bit).

I will post more opinions when I finish the second and third worlds, so far it is looking like a game that would best be skipped imho.