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November 1st, 2006, 02:07 Posted By: wraggster
Birslip has posted a new version of his mini games collection for the DS:
Mini-games collection, in each game you must avoid letting your player get touched by any of the baddies. And they increase in both speed and numbers as the game goes on, so stay on your toes! The graphics are great, and look out for the tribute to the old arcade classics and home computer raves! Avoid, avoid again, scores! There is a Wifi mode for the online high scores 
30/10/2006 News: Wifi Update
I added a new item in wifi menu: your highscore for each level!
And, i fixed small bugs.
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November 1st, 2006, 02:11 Posted By: wraggster
JimmyL released this over a week ago and sad to say i missed it, heres a new version of his RTS game for the DS:
Time for another update. I made the switch to Ubuntu about a month ago, and it took me a while, but I've finally settled in and found all the apps I need to code with a bit of ease(it's hard to move away from msvc as an ide). But I don't want to turn this into a blog, so here's some game update news...
This is yet another bug fix release, a couple of people on the forums have now mentioned that the minimap "selected area" box wasn't showing up, something I don't quite understand was causing the box to be drawn offscreen, but I managed to get it working regardless. I also fixed another problem that creeped in when I updated libs, the random number generator I was using for setting up the world stopped working, causing all the grass tiles to look the same. So, changing to plain old rand fixed the problem.
I also played a wifi game with this version and it works great, so I've taken down the previous versions.
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November 1st, 2006, 02:14 Posted By: wraggster
JimmyL posted this news/release:
Brand new game!
Multiplayer!
No Rules!
Has... um... cards, chess and reversi...
...no chat support of any kind...
...if you play online, I hope you're in the same room...
...and trust your friends...
...never been tested with more than 2 players...
Fun for the whole family!
Seriously now, here's a game idea my friend Rob came up with years ago, and I thought would be fun to play on the ds. You get a table, it has stuff on it, you move the stuff around, your friends can join you and move the stuff as well. You can put stuff in your hand, your friends can't move that stuff. That's pretty much it. Play checkers with chess or reversi pieces! and more!
The game is not quite ready to be played online since there's no way to talk, and I don't have very high hopes that it will work with more than two players, but I've been having fun with it single player and two players on the same couch, so I figured I'd release it as is.
As with the other games I've written, to play online you need your ds's to be configured for wifi with one of the official Nintendo games, and to host, you need to have your router forward port 9999 to your ds(you can find your ds's ip in game).
Adding new games/items should be fairly painless(other than me drawing cards and chess pieces by hand...), so if there's anything you'd like to see added, let me know on the forums.
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November 1st, 2006, 02:17 Posted By: wraggster
News from Sektor
Small update to SpoutDS. It now clears VRAM, so you won't have left over sprites in the background when launching on certain flash cards.
This is a modified version of Birslip's DS port. Spout is a small, abstract shooting game from Japanese developer kuni. It plays somewhat like Finnish cavefliers, except you have to erode your surroundings with your ship's exhuast. It's great fun. It was originally written for a handheld LCD console, then ported to Windows/SDL, then to Unix/SDL and now to DS.
The goal is to get as high as you possibly can, without crashing or your time running out.
Controls: A/B/X/Y - shoot, accelerate, spout, start
left - turn left
right - turn right
start - pause
select - LCD swap
L - toggle top backlight
R - toggle bottom backlight
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November 1st, 2006, 02:21 Posted By: wraggster
New release from Lick, heres the full details:
What's new:
- ALL Supercard devices will now return to the sc menu. (SCLite users, please give feedback)
- GBAMP (with chishm's hack) will now return to _BOOT_MP.NDS.
- M3 devices will now return to the m3 menu. (M3CF and M3SD tested. If not working, try holding L. Please give feedback)
- EZ IV devices will return to the ez menu. (Note: it takes a few seconds before LoveLite is initialized. After that, it works though)
- EZ-Flash III and EZ-Flash II has potentially working code, but no one tested yet.
What's changed:
- The firmware is now tested before it writes the brightness. Also corrected the iQue offsets.. iQue users: Please make sure you have a -Flashed iQue- before trying this software. No tests have been done on iQue devices, because I don't have one. It should work as expected, but until people have tested it, I can't claim anything.
- The buttons were reacting too slow, now you shouldn't have any input-delays. In other words: smooth touching.
- Graphics glitches were found on some cards, also fixed.
What's about the beta?
I turned this into a beta, so that people hopefully will read the release notes. 
THIS SOFTWARE BRICKS YOUR DS (Disclaimer)
No, it doesn't. Yes, it bricked a few iQues (hopefully they were flashed) but the code is fixed. As you can read in the changes, the potentionally dangerous code now includes checking of the firmware before writing to it.
The release is tested on western ds'es, but make sure your firmware is flashed if you're the first person to test LoveLite on your type of hardware. (FlashMe users are 100% safe!)
To do
- Implement new device-detection code.
- Make the return feature work for even more deviceTypes.
Enjoy, and report all possible bugs so I can fix them in the next release!
Thanks,
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November 1st, 2006, 02:32 Posted By: wraggster
Just a few weeks ago Ubisoft revealed that the company had been working on a Star Wars game tailored for both the PlayStation Portable as well as the Nintendo DS. In that announcement, the company only had screens and details ready to go on the PSP rendition, leaving DS owners in the dark on what their version's going to end up becoming. Today, Ubisoft let us in on what's happening with the dual-screen portable version of Star Wars: Deadly Alliance shipping this December.
The game's in development at Ubisoft Morocco, the development team that worked on the Nintendo DS version of Peter Jackson's King Kong last year. In Star Wars: Deadly Alliance, players are thrust into an era between Star Wars Episode III and Episode IV, just before Princess Leia secured the plans for the Death Star. You're actually put into the role of Rianna Saren put to the task of securing those plans for the Princess and the Alliance.
The game's all action, running on the Nintendo DS in full 3D. Players will run through many familiar areas of the Star Wars universe, including such locations as Mustafar and Tatooine, as well as new locations on Despayre, Danuta, and Alderaan. Duke it out with the all-star cast including Boba Fett and Darth Vader.
The Nintendo DS version will have special touch-screen mini-games between the action, as well as a four player wireless multiplayer option. The current, official boxart indicates that the game might go online, though don't be surprised if it's a feature that gets the axe before the game's release.
Star Wars: Lethal Alliance ships to stores this December.
Screens Here
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November 1st, 2006, 03:07 Posted By: wraggster
New from SuccessHK
In Over The Hedge, you'll take an interactive adventure beyond the film. When a housing development intrudes on their woodland habitat and an opossum is kidnapped by an evil exterminator, three wise-cracking rodents and one reptile invade the 'burbs in a quest to rescue their friend. Battle the exterminator and his army of mind-controlled mammals, and save the forest (and your own hide) from the world's peskiest critter -- man. Gamers can play with a friend in the wireless mini-game with a single Over the Hedge NDS cartridge
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November 1st, 2006, 03:08 Posted By: wraggster
New from SuccessHK
Magical Vacation has you adventuring through outer space to rescue your teacher and classmates while exploring strange planets. The game is controlled fully by the stylus, and features up to 6 players via WiFi.
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November 1st, 2006, 03:10 Posted By: wraggster
New from SuccessHK
In Contact, you'll become a direct part of your role-playing. A Professor's damaged spaceship crash lands on a mysterious planet. He discovers that the power sources of his ship, known as Cells, have been scattered across the world. To retrieve them all, The Professor enlists a brave young man named Terry -- and a brave video game player known as you! The Professor and Terry will ask for your help during the course of the adventure, using the Nintendo DS to "contact" you along the way.
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November 1st, 2006, 17:52 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo of America has confirmed the titles due for the US launch window of its new Wii console, with 32 retail games due to arrive by the end of December.
The format holder has also unveiled its first 30 retro titles for the Virtual Console service, supporting favourites from platforms such as Super Nintendo and Mega Drive, also due before the end of the year.
The new Wii game list brings confirmation that titles like Metal Slug Anthology and Call of Duty 3 will join first party titles including The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Wii Sports, Wii Play and ExciteTruck.
Nintendo has previously said to expect around 15 titles on launch day.
Meanwhile, Virtual Console offerings will include Super Mario 64 (N64), F-Zero (SNES), Sonic the Hedgehog (Megadrive) and a raft of titles for both NES and TurboGrafx-16.
Virtual Console games will be sold for Wii Points - with NES games costing 500, SNES games 800 and N64 games 1000.
In Europe, 2000 Wii Points will cost around EUR 20 or GBP 14, Nintendo confirmed back in September.
What follows is the list of third-party Wii titles, and the Virtual Console games listed by console:
The Ant Bully
Avatar: The Last Airbender
Call of Duty 3
Cars
Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2
Elebits
Far Cry: Vengeance
The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy
GT Pro Series
Happy Feet
Ice Age 2: The Meltdown
Madden NFL 07
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance
Metal Slug Anthology
Monster 4x4 World Circuit
Need for Speed Carbon
Open Season
Rampage: Total Destruction
Rapala Tournament Fishing
Rayman Raving Rabbids
Red Steel
SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab
Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz
Super Swing Golf
Trauma Center: Second Opinion
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Double Agent
Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam
World Series of Poker: Tournament of Champions
Virtual Console:
NES
Baseball
Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong Jr.
Ice Hockey
The Legend of Zelda
Pinball
Soccer
Solomon's Key
Super Mario Bros.
Tennis
Urban Champion
Wario's Woods
Super NES
F-Zero
SimCity
Nintendo 64
Super Mario 64
Sega Megadrive
Altered Beast
Columns
Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine
Ecco the Dolphin
Golden Axe
Gunstar Heroes
Sonic The Hedgehog
Space Harrier II
ToeJam and Earl
TurboGrafx-16
Bomberman '93
Bonk's Adventure
Dungeon Explorer
Super Star Soldier
Victory Run
The Wii will launch in America on November 19th priced USD $249.99 and in Europe on December 8th priced EUR 249 (GBP 179).
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November 1st, 2006, 17:52 Posted By: wraggster
Hudson Entertainment has announced plans to launch more than 40 retro games for the Wii's Virtual Console service during 2007, with prices starting at EUR 6.
The initial batch of titles due out in Europe and the US will include Bonk's Adventure, Super Star Soldier, Victory Run, Bomberman 93 and Dungeon Explorer - all of which will be available by the end of the year. Japanese Wii owners will also get the option to buy Adventure Island and Necromancer.
Each game will cost a minimum of 600 Wii points, or EUR 6 / USD 6 / YEN 600, and will be available via the Wii Shop Channel. Users can buy points either via the online shop or from retail stores.
Hudson said it plans to release more than 60 games for the Virtual Console in Japan over the next year, while the US and Europe will get a further 40 titles. That will include third-party games for the TurboGrafx-16 (known as the PC Engine in Japan).
The news follows Nintendo's announcement that 30 Virtual Console games will be released by the end of 2006, including favourites from platforms such as the SNES and Megadrive.
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November 1st, 2006, 17:53 Posted By: wraggster
Sega of America has unveiled the first batch of titles it plans to release for the Wii's Virtual Console, which will be priced at 800 Wii points per game.
The 2006 line-up includes Sonic the Hedgehog and Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine, Altered Beast, Golden Axe and Gunstar Heroes. Classic puzzler Columns will also be on offer, along with Ecco the Dolphin, Space Harrier II, Ristar and Toe Jam and Earl.
According to an official statement, the Virtual Console service will feature a "best of" selection of Sega games that will be updated with new content each month. Prices will start at 800 Wii points per title - the equivalent to USD 8.
That's the same starting price Nintendo has announced for SNES titles, although NES titles will cost from 500 Wii points. Hudson said its Virtual Console offerings will cost 600 points and up.
"Nintendo has offered a great gateway in bringing classic Sega titles to Wii console owners," said SOA's VP of marketing, Scott A. Steinberg.
"This is only the beginning though, as you can expect to see more announcements regarding other legendary titles from Sega's catalog coming to the Wii Shop Channel in the coming months."
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November 1st, 2006, 17:54 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo is looking to expand its market reach by launching its videogame business in Russia this year, according to a report on business daily Nihon Keizai Shimbun.
Following in the footsteps of rival format-holders Microsoft and Sony, Nintendo hopes to establish a presence in the growing market as traditional US, Japanese and European regions begin to mature.
Considered a growing market, the inaugural Game Developers Conference Russia was held in St Petersburgh last month, attracting local development and publishing teams, as well as international attendees including Q Entertainment, Valve and Eidos.
Along with other areas such as the Nordic regions in Europe, publishers and developers are increasingly looking to new markets to expand their businesses, with Russia becoming the latest region to benefit from international attention.
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November 1st, 2006, 17:58 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo has announced that 27 Wii games will be released in Europe by the end of the year, with a further 31 retro titles available via the Virtual Console service.
The Wii will launch here on December 8 alongside first-party titles such as Wii Sports, which comes bundled with the console, Wii Play and The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.
Electronic Arts's launch day games will be Madden NFL 07 and Need for Speed Carbon, while THQ is promising Cars, Barnyard and Spongebob Squarepants: Creature from the Krusty Krab.
From Activision there's Call of Duty 3, Marvel: Ultimate Alliance and Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam, and Midway will offer Happy Feet and Rampage: Total Destruction. Sega will release just one launch day title - Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz - while from System 3 there's Gottlieb Pinball Classics and Super Fruit Fall.
Ubisoft is the most prolific supporter of the Wii at launch, with no less than eight titles slated for release - Blazing Angels, Far Cry Vengeance, GT Pro Series, Monster 4x4 World Circuit, Open Season, Rayman Raving Rabbids, Red Steel and Splinter Cell: Double Agent.
Later on in December, System 3 will release three more Wii titles - Impossible Mission, Leaderboard Golf and Tennis Masters. January will see WarioWare: Smooth Moves hit the shops, while Excite Truck will follow in February.
The Wii will retail for GBP 179 / EUR 249, and first-party games will cost between EUR 49 - 59 or GBP 34 - 39.
Nintendo has also confirmed that December will see the release of 31 games for the European version of the Wii's Virtual Console. NES titles already lined up include Donkey Kong and Donkey Kong Jr., Mario Bros., Solomon's Key, The Legend of Zelda, Urban Champion and Wario's Woods, plus sports titles Baseball, Pinball, Soccer, Tennis and Ice Hockey.
SNES classics Donkey Kong Country, F-Zero and Sim City will also be on offer, along with N64 favourite Super Mario 64.
Sega's European VC line-up includes Sonic the Hedgehog, Altered Beast, Golden Axe, Columns and Gunstar Heroes, plus Ecco the Dolphin, Space Harrier II, Toe Jam and Earl, Ristar and Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine.
Hudson is planning to release five Turbografx titles - Bonk's Adventure, Super Star Soldier, Victory Run, Bomberman '93 and Dungeon Explorer.
NES games will retail for 500 Wii Points (around EUR 5), while Turbografx titles will cost 600 points. SNES and Mega Drive games are priced at 800 points, and N64 titles are the most expensive at 1000 points.
The Virtual Console games are saved on the Wii's internal flash memory and added to the Channel menu so users can get easy access. Nintendo has pledged to add more titles to the catalogue in 2007 "and beyond, creating a constantly growing library of games".
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November 1st, 2006, 23:46 Posted By: wraggster
There's a bit of envy in the office this morning, as Nintendo of Japan revealed its Wii Virtual Console release list and pricing details - and Japanese gamers seem to be getting a much better deal than us.
For a start, Sega's Virtual Console titles will be retailing for 200 Wii Points (about 0.90 GBP) less than in this side of then world, at a much more attractive 600 points a piece (about 2.70 GBP).
More importantly though are the 19 (!) additional titles that will be launching in Japan before the end of the year, including Zelda: Link to the Past, Donkey Kong County and Street Fighter II. In fact, Japan currently has nine extra SNES games planned over us poor Europeans.
The full list of games planned for Japan this year is as follows (better get the tissues):
NES Games (500 Wii Points)
Legend of Kage
Gradius
Go-moku Narabe
Xevious
Ninja Jajamaru-kun
SNES Games (800 Wii Points)
R-Type III
Super Castlevania IV
Contra III
Street Fighter II
Donkey Kong Country
Super Mario World
Zelda: Link to the Past
Fire Emblem
Super Mario Picross
Mega Drive Games (600 Wii Points)
Shadow Dancer
TurboGrafx 16 Games (600 Wii Points)
Necromancer
New Adventure Island
Battle Lode Runner
Bomberman '94
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November 1st, 2006, 23:47 Posted By: wraggster
Via CVG
New gameplay footage shows four Wii newbies try Zelda for the first time
Four new videos have been posted on Wii.com that show Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess being played on Wii.
These are the latest of a number of videos to appear on the site which, apparently, show people's reactions during their first encounter with the Wii and its motion-sensing awesomeness.
The other videos were boring. But, in these ones, the camera swings round behind the player to show the TV screen, and you can see Link battling in what looks like Hyrule Field. You can hear the music and everything!
Get over to Wii.com NOW, or just click here to go straight to the videos.
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November 1st, 2006, 23:59 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime wants to share some good news and some bad news. The good news is that by the end of the year Nintendo expects to ship 4 million consoles. The bad news is, they still expect to sell out. From the article: "Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime hyped up the console launch, saying, 'Because of demand, we're urging shoppers not to get complacent. The level of demand we're seeing goes beyond the ordinary. Retailers are telling us a significant fraction of customers pre-ordering Wii are nontraditional gamers...' The company expects to ship 6 million Wii units globally by the end of March 2007, on par with Sony's worldwide shipment targets for PS3. Microsoft has sold 6 million Xbox 360 units to date since its launch in late November 2005, and hopes to sell 10 million by the end of the calendar year." So, fewer units than the analysts wanted. Still an impressive number.
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November 2nd, 2006, 00:11 Posted By: wraggster
And we thought Zelda: Twilight Princess was a tease - Super Smash Bros Brawl is still cruelly without a definite date for its arrival next year and developer and publisher Nintendo is still being as tight-lipped about its super smashing game as ever.
This pair of new screens doesn't really make the wait any easier: Link, Pikachu, Mario and, er, that bloke from Kid Icarus together at last! It's the kind of image that will haunt us until we finally get a hands-on with the title.
With its creator promising no gesture craziness that doesn't add to the fun - so you won't be swapping hammering buttons for furiously waggling Wii-motes - we're interested to see exactly how SSBB will make use of Wii.
Screens Here
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November 2nd, 2006, 00:13 Posted By: wraggster
While praising Wii's prospects as an industry disrupter, DFC Intelligence says Nintendo shouldn't hinge Wii's chances of success solely on its controller. Really? You mean to tell us that games will determine its success? Analyst David Cole also counsels the console to follow in the footsteps of its popular portable brother, the DS, that merely supplements gameplay with touch controls. Nintendo, we hope you're taking notes!
From the article: "So much emphasis has been put on the new control system that it often seems the controller is the platform. From DFC Intelligence's perspective it would probably not be a good thing for Nintendo if the Wii is defined mainly by its controller. The risk is that consumers have fun with the Wii controller for a few months, but the fad passes and they move back to their tried-and-true gameplay methods on a competing system."
In all seriousness, the report rightfully views the system as an "evolution" in console gaming rather than the promoted "revolution," because the latter implies a totally broken system that current industry growth contradicts. But to restate what Nintendo has said all along as its goal (heighten fun in games patterned after the DS)? That's like stealing your watch and telling you the time. So how about analyzing the more difficult execution process?
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November 2nd, 2006, 00:14 Posted By: wraggster
Now that we have the Virtual Console launch lists for the US, Europe, and Japan, it's time to compare and contrast how each region fared. To no one's surprise, Japan has every single game being released in the other regions and more, with the exception of Bomberman '93 (Japan owners get the "vastly disparate" 1994 edition).
Take note of the publishers found in the US and European regions: with the exception of Tecmo's Solomon's Keys for the NES, all games are first-party titles from Hudson, Nintendo, or Sega. International licensing troubles, perhaps?
Looking at the first-party titles, US and Europe are missing out on quite a few high-profile games: Super Mario Bros (NES), Super Mario World and Zelda: Link to the Past (SNES). In fact, the only Mario title coming to US / Europe at launch (Donkey Kong notwithstanding) is Mario Bros., otherwise known as that multiplayer minigame included in all the GBA Mario remakes.
We understand Nintendo giving the much-less-popular Fire Emblem to Japan only, but why delay Nintendo's flagship titles of the past? Does Nintendo think it's going to prove something by launching the Wii outside of Japan with as little of Mario's presence possible?
One more note: UK-based Rare's Donkey Kong Country is coming to Japan and Europe but is conspicuously absent from the US roster. With Microsoft being a US-based company and the new owners of Rare, the conspiracy theorist in us thinks there might be some funny going on. We've sent off a few questions to Nintendo and Rare and will let you know what we find out.
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November 2nd, 2006, 00:29 Posted By: wraggster
New DS Game release at Play Asia:
Konami is bringing the Winning Eleven series to the Nintendo DS™. Celebrated for its smooth, realistic gameplay, online play via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection and detailed game modes, the Winning Eleven series has consistently been a favorite of soccer fans around the globe.
Price: US$ 39.90 (~21.19 GBP)
More Info --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1i4s.html
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November 2nd, 2006, 01:10 Posted By: wraggster
Cash-flush gamers who got up early this morning and perused the Wal-Mart Web site got lucky. For several hours today, the megaretailer's online store offered a so-called "Nintendo Wii Customer Choice's Bundle" which offered the next-gen console packed in with series of accoutrements for $533.56.
Normally, the basic Wii package costs $249.99. It includes the Wii console, "Wiimote controller," a Nunchuk attachment, Wiimote wrist strap, power cord, standard A/V cable, sensor bar, two AA batteries, and stands for the console and sensor bar.
The Nintendo Wii Customer Choice's Bundle comes with the aforementioned package plus 2,000 Will points--the non-cash equivalent of $20. It also comes with the choice of four games from the list below:
Ant Bully
Avatar: The Last Airbender
Barnyard
Call of Duty 3
Cars
Chicken Little: Ace in Action
Elebits
Excite Truck
Far Cry Vengeance
The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy
Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
Madden NFL 07
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance
Need for Speed Carbon
Open Season
Rayman Raving Rabbids
Red Steel
SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Double Agent
Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam
Trauma Center: Second Opinion
Though Wii games have not been officially priced, most retailers list both first and third-party titles for the console as being $49.99 each. By that calculus, four games (4 x $49.99 = $199.96), a console package ($249.99), and 2,000 Wii points ($20) should come to $469.95 before sales tax. Throw in the extra Wiimote ($39.82 at Wal-Mart) and Nunchuck ($19.82 at Wal-Mart), and that means Wal-Mart is charging a not-so-mighty premium of $3.97 on each Nintendo Wii Customer Choice's Bundle. The mark-up didn't stop consumers from scooping up the offer, though--by early afternoon, the bundle was sold out.
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November 2nd, 2006, 01:14 Posted By: wraggster
Business Week examines the Wii as compared to Sony's PS3 from a non-gamer perspective. Though somewhat redundant, the piece offers good insight as to how the Wiimote came to fruition (once a cell phone?), favorable analyst predictions (Wii to initially outsell the PS3), and the amount of stealth used to mask Nintendo's motion-sensing mojo:
"Development of the Wii took place behind an absolute shroud of secrecy. When Sega finally got a sneak preview in early 2005, it immediately offered Sonic the Hedgehog and Super Monkey Ball for the Wii's launch [Note: Sega strongly supported the 'Cube] ... France's Ubisoft and a half-dozen other studios excitedly signed on, too. All were required to take extreme measures to prevent leaks."
The article goes on to say that Ubisoft even built new office walls to stay mum. Well that helps explain the extreme hush-hushness of the project. And the business mag concludes that despite Wii's chances, hard-core gamers will likely prefer a 360 or PS3. "But for the industry, Nintendo's machine could be a real game changer."
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November 2nd, 2006, 01:38 Posted By: wraggster
Via Spong
Here’s a statement we love to make every few years: if you are deeply committed to virtual handheld gardening and farming then rejoice today! Word just in from Nintendo is that the wonderful Harvest Moon DS launches across Europe in the first months of 2007.
While SPOnG awaits the first screens on the game, you can check out these screens from Harvest Moon: A Wonderful Life from the GameCube version a couple of years ago.
Much like its GC father, Harvest Moon DS invites players to do as much or as little as they like to pass the time. Nintendo informs us that, “As well as working in fields and tending to their flocks, players can cultivate their own seed variants, hunt for hidden treasure or even fish in the river…The aim of Harvest Moon DS is to run a successful farm in Forget-Me-Not-Valley. To do this, players must plant seeds and harvest crops in the right season, as well as looking after animals like cows, chicken and sheep.”
Players get to interact with the animals in the game, petting and caring for them with the DS’s stylus: happier animals equal better quality milk, eggs and wool.
Darker forces are also at work, as the launch release continues, “The Witch Princess, upset by the Harvest Goddess, has used her magic to transport the Goddess and the Harvest Sprites to another world, where they have become trapped. The player must therefore work hard on the farm in order to release them. As the Sprites are freed, they can help on the player’s farm, watering crops and tending to the animals.”
The social aspect of the game is also an important feature. Players can build-up relationships with 25 characters in their town by chatting to them and giving presents. You can also marry one of the lusty local farm girls and raise a family, with the DS’s second screen allowing you to view sections of the town in real time, meaning you can keep track of the ‘girl of your dreams’, while working in the fields.
Let’s see what Jack Thompson and Keith Vaz have to say about this then shall we?
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November 2nd, 2006, 01:49 Posted By: wraggster
New at Success HK
What starts in the city is settled in the canyons as Need for Speed Carbon immerses you into the world's most dangerous and adrenaline-filled form of street racing. You and your crew must race in an all-out war for the city, risking everything to take over your rivals' neighborhoods one block at a time. As the police turn up the heat, the battle ultimately shifts to Carbon Canyon, where territories and reputations can be lost on every perilous curve. Need for Speed Carbon delivers the next generation of customization giving you the power to design and tweak your crew's cars in every way using the ground-breaking new Autosculpt technology. Represent your car class, your crew, and your turf in Need for Speed Carbon, the next revolution in racing games.
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November 2nd, 2006, 01:53 Posted By: wraggster
New at Success HK
For the first time ever, players can create pets for their Sims to love, train, play with and take to the park. Create-a-Pet allows players to mix, match and create the perfect dog or cat for their Sim. Labradoodle? Shnoodle? Puggle? Choose breeds and customize your pets. Put your pets to work in a variety of different careers including Show Business, Security and Service. Hang out in Central Park, the community center where you can interact with other Sims while shopping for various pets accessories. Play "doc" as your run the town Pet Care Center! Gain status based on your Sims pet care skills, from performing examinations to healing, playing and training.
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November 2nd, 2006, 02:00 Posted By: wraggster
New at Success HK
More Description of GameBoy Advance / Micro Need for Speed Carbon: Own the City
Portable Video Game
* For Game Boy Advance
* The city is yours for the taking with Need for Speed Carbon.
* Race in a city filled with alternate driving paths, diverse racing modes, and hidden secrets.
* Build your crew and load a custom soundtrack
* Game Genre: Racing ;Game Sub-Genre: Auto Racing
* Published by Electronic Arts
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November 2nd, 2006, 02:05 Posted By: wraggster
Datels Homebrew Comp has been extended, heres whats the info:
Due to the excellent response to our NDS home brew competition, and the high standard of entries, we've decided to extend the deadline beyond the end of October. There's still time to get your entries in, but hurry - the competition must end soon...
More info
To celebrate the success of MAX Media Dock for the Nintendo DS, Datel is looking for the best home brew games around to offer as downloads or to possibly be bundled with future products. They don’t have to be new games – if you’ve already released a game onto the home brew scene, feel free to submit it for the competition. We’re not after exclusive publication rights either. If your game’s one of the lucky winners, you can still distribute it on the net and issue updated releases. In fact, if you’ve already written a game, entering the competition will be no effort at all!
But what’s in it for you? Easy – we’re giving away up to 50 bundles of Datel DS goodies, worth £100 each! And if that’s not enough, your game will also get a much increased distribution, with Datel’s seal of approval bringing it to the attention of professional DS coding teams who might – just might – be looking for new recruits.
To enter, just send a copy of your game with a few simple instructions to homebrewcompetition@datel.co.uk. If you’re one of the winners, we’ll get back to you after this date.
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November 2nd, 2006, 02:34 Posted By: wraggster
Infantile Paralyser have released a new version of the Image Viewer for the DS, heres whats new:
The bug that stopped while retrieving the folder was corrected.
A vertical mode and a horizontal mode can be chosen. (Added function icon)
In a single mode of the slide show, the right and left can be chosen.
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November 2nd, 2006, 02:36 Posted By: wraggster
Via DSfanboy
During the great catastrophe that occured in Illusia, many lost their life. The Mana Tree, a staple of the Mana series, has now become corrupt with its own power, causing countless monsters to roam the lands. Mana pillars have also erected across Illusia, tasking the player with raising the Sword of Mana and freeing the trapped Guardian Spirit within. This is the only way the Mana Tree and Illusia can return to peaceful state it enjoyed before the catastrophe.
IGN - 80%: "Hardcore gamers expecting to get a sequel to the popular Secret of Mana series from the days of the Super Nintendo are going to be let down purely based on the dungeon crawler design of the game. For fans of games like Blizzard's Diablo, or repeat gamers that enjoyed Sword of Mana despite its harsh criticism and apparent downsides, Children of Mana is a keeper. The action is solid, the amount of character customization is definitely robust, the amount of side quests and bonus missions to partake in will ensure players that the adventure isn't over too quickly, and the game is simply beautiful on an audio/visual level. As far as hack-n-slash RPGs go, Children of Mana is one of the best we've seen on a handheld, and for dungeon crawler addicts Square Enix has definitely hit the spot."
Gamepro - 80%: "Ultimately, Children of Mana is wonderfully rendered, but when compared to Secret of Mana's engaging narrative, Children of Mana's sparse and slow story falls short. The game is still fun, especially if you enjoy dungeon-crawling and strategically nuanced battles. Fans of the Mana series should check it out, but don't hold your expectations too high."
Games Radar - 60%: "It's a shame that combat in Children of Mana is so mindless. The ingredients are there to make this a really excellent action RPG. Unfortunately, it wasn't cooked for long enough and you're left with an action RPG with great RPG elements and trite action. There are lots of things this game does right, but ultimately it fails to live up to its potential."
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November 2nd, 2006, 02:37 Posted By: wraggster
Via DSFanboy
The official minisite for Yoshi's Island DS is up, and it is so very clickable! Make sure you slide your mouse pointer around, as there's music hidden in one of the flowers. Under "see more" by the DS, there's a very simple introduction to the game and the characters that's quite charming.
The bad news: the site content, while cute, is pretty thin for now, but they promise more is coming, so keep an eye out. The game hits stores November 13.
More Info
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November 2nd, 2006, 02:42 Posted By: wraggster
ttursas has again updated his homebrew game for the DS, heres whats new:
Ok, just released v0.1.1. Here's what's new:
* Made the planes faster, and easier to kill.
* The gravity works a bit differently now.
* Adjusted the way the plane moves.
* Made the sounds louder (master volume was at 50%).
* Made the camera move faster.
* When not accelerating, the plane slows down slower.
* When accelerating the frequency of the plane's motor becomes higher.
* Fixed a stupid bug in the RLE decompressor.
* All explosions that created holes in the background create now bigger holes.
* Added title screen.
* When the level is changed, bullets and planes are now reset.
* Added kill statistics.
* It's not possible to start a network match with just one logged player.
* Changing the server's IP address after connecting to an AP should work now.
* The hardware divider unit is now more often used.
* Added support for single layer 1024x512 and 512x1024 pixel levels, plus added two test levels.
* Adjusted the default settings to be more useful.
* Optimized bullet drawing.
* Mines got new graphics.
* Added 25-Oct-2006 dswifilib UDP bugfixes.
* Added preliminary plane selection screen.
Also, what's not on the list, is this new feature called "Wifi malfunction".  Currently multiplayer mode doesn't work at my machine. The game crashes after connecting to the server / server PC.
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November 2nd, 2006, 02:48 Posted By: wraggster
Alekmaul has posted some WIP news of his Arcade emulator for the DS:
Heres the crappy google translation
In this day fériée, small a news on MarcaDS 
This new version includes/understands a certain number of innovations like:
This new version includes updates like:
* Graphical engine is way faster (but I have to reprogram all games ><, 14 of them are already available)
* Sound in lots of game
* You can get back to the main-menu to play another game using L&R
* High-Scores are now saved
* Compatible with the latest linkers
* When will this be available ? Soon
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November 2nd, 2006, 17:11 Posted By: wraggster
A confident Nintendo has reaffirmed its commitment to the launch of the Wii, reiterating its promise of four million units for retail before the end of the year, as it expects unprecedented demand from consumers.
Bolstered by pre-orders and retailer feedback, the company aims to pull out all the stops to supply demand in a retail environment it expects to dominate this side of Christmas.
"Wii is for both experienced and uninitiated gamers, and it will be available for the masses," said Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime.
"Because of demand, we're urging shoppers not to get complacent. The level of demand we're seeing goes beyond the ordinary."
"Retailers are telling us a significant fraction of customers pre-ordering Wii are non-traditional gamers - people looking for a better way to play. And that's exactly what Wii is designed to provide," he added.
Clearly confident of its manufacturing capabilities and supply chain, the format-holder has promised to fill retail shelves with product with a launch strategy that can be deemed more efficient that its competitors.
Last year Microsoft struggled to supply retailers with enough units of the Xbox 360 leading to a shortage of hardware well into the new year.
And Sony's launch of the PlayStation 3 later this month has been hampered by poor manufacturing capabilities, with shipment targets missed and a delay to the release of the console in Europe.
Wii is due to launch on November 19th in the US, December 2nd in Japan and across Europe on December 8th.
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November 2nd, 2006, 17:19 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo is going crazy with the Twilight Princess videos. Yesterday it put four gameplay videos of Link fighting in a field on the official Wii website.
Now there are two new direct-feed videos on the same page, revealing the game's full title-screen sequence - which is strangely reminiscent of Ocarina of Time's intro sequence in places - and a huge trailer showing Wolf Link and many of his new powers.
Get yourself over to Wii.com right now and watch those damn videos. Then start counting down the seconds to its December 8 release.
http://uk.wii.com/software/01/
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November 2nd, 2006, 17:20 Posted By: wraggster
Lionhead boss Peter Molyneux has revealed how he would have loved to have developed for Nintendo's Wii. "[It is] something I would've loved to have got my teeth into," he said in an interview with CVG, part one of which is hitting these pages imminently.
When asked if under different circumstances he'd like to develop for Nintendo's console, Molyneux said: "I'd love to play around with it. You know, it's a pure design challenge and the biggest change you can make in a designer's life is changing the controller".
"Not thinking about 'oh we're not going to put this on the X button and that on the A button' but having to do a complete re-think is quite an exciting challenge and something I would've loved to have got my teeth into, yes."
Lionhead was recently bought out by Microsoft and is now developing Fable 2 for Xbox 360 and another undisclosed title that Molyneux also mentions in our interview.
You can checkout the first part right now, and look out for the second sometime tomorrow.
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November 2nd, 2006, 17:22 Posted By: wraggster
Star Fox Command, the latest in the long-running series of space shooters, will land in UK stores on DS on January 26.
Star Fox Command does away with the usual linear Star Fox-style shooting levels and replaces them with free-roaming action stages split up by a new strategy element.
Using the touchscreen, players draw paths on an overhead map screen for their Arwings (airships) to fly. Full 3D battles initiate when an Arwing comes into contact with an enemy unit or base, at which point you jump into the cockpit and fight to destroy the enemy.
Star Fox Command is one of many great titles due for release soon after Christmas, so make sure you save any money you get from Santa.
Screens Here
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November 2nd, 2006, 17:28 Posted By: wraggster
Mere weeks after World of Warcraft was made the subject of an entire episode of South Park, the outrageous cartoon returns to videogames again - this time featuring the Wii.
In the hilarious episode, Cartman is going berserk in anticipation of the Wii's US launch and, is the first scene, is pacing back and forth outside a Wii poster-covered games store.
Later in school, as Mr. Garrison teaches his rather explicit version of natural evolution, Cartman sits wide-eyed and shaking in sheer eagerness for the new Nintendo console, as he asks: "How long until Nintendo Wii comes out, now?" Then shouting "OH GOD" when Carl tells him it's still three weeks away. "How about now" he immediately asks.
His solution? To go into a state of suspended animation by freezing himself "like in the space movies". It's hilarious.
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November 2nd, 2006, 17:29 Posted By: wraggster
Codemasters will publish Rafa Nadal Tennis, a new tennis game on DS which will feature an interesting new touchscreen control system.
Players will use the stylus to move their athlete around the court, and swing for the ball by making swiping motions across the screen, with lobs, drop shots, power shots and other plays all performed this way.
This will apparently give you "unprecedented" levels of control over the angle and power of your shots. You will also be able to improve your player's attributes by winning tournaments to earn credits, which you spend in gaining higher skill levels. And it's got a four-player multiplayer option that will work with one cart, which is always nice.
We can't imagine exactly how the control system will perform, but it certainly sounds intriguing. We've not got long to wait, though - it's due out in December. Check out the first screens.
Screens Here
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November 2nd, 2006, 17:35 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo's moved quickly to reaffirm that Wii will output in 480p, after Official Nintendo Magazine suggested it would offer higher resolutions.
According to reports, the official mag wrote: "At the time of going to print, Wii games will output in 720i and 720p - 720i is your standard TV picture."
But it turns out this was a simple mistake, with Nintendo UK confirming this morning: "Wii will output in 480p".
Nintendo UK also recently said that it had every invention of releasing peripherals like the component cable - used to achieve the 480p resolution - at retail, despite suggestions that you'd have to buy the cables through online shops in the US.
The interest in Wii's high-resolution options is of course spurred on by Microsoft and Sony's battling over the higher end. Both PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 generally offer games in 720p, with 1080p now possible for developers who want to go the extra mile (well, the extra 1,152,000 pixels, anyway).
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November 2nd, 2006, 17:45 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo this morning unveiled dual Wii launch parties for Los Angeles and New York City.
The new York event will take place at the Toys R Us in Times Square, while the LA event will happen at the GameStop in Universal CityWalk. Both midnight events will feature live music and entertainment, games, "special guests from Nintendo" and a countdown to the sale of the first Wii.
"Who'll be the first person to line up?" asks George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "Will it be a Zelda fan in New York or a soccer mom in Los Angeles? We're going to make sure these events help everyone feed off one another's energy and enthusiasm."
"Toys "R" Us Times Square will be the first store in the United States where customers can both experience, and purchase Wii, Nintendo's new revolution in gaming," says Ron Boire, President, Toys "R" Us, U.S. "As a family oriented store, we are thrilled with the potential of the Wii system to bring parents and kids closer together. There is no better place to launch this truly innovative gaming console than The World's Greatest Toy Store."
"Just like our retail outlets, Wii has something for every kind of gamer," says Steve Morgan, President, GameStop Corp. "As the world's largest video game and entertainment software retailer, we're ready to kick off the celebration at midnight on Nov. 19th, and help show the world a new way to play."
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November 2nd, 2006, 18:04 Posted By: wraggster
Over in New York at the official Nintendo World Store they have some rather special and well a tad nasty looking DS Phats that will set you back $499
Screen Via Comments
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November 2nd, 2006, 18:12 Posted By: wraggster
Via BBC & Rebecca Morelle :
When I told my brother I was heading to Slough - he was rather jealous.
Not because he had a great desire to see the Brunel bus station, but because I was getting a preview of the Nintendo Wii.
"Why are they sending you - you don't 'do' videogames," he - a dedicated gamer - said over the phone.
"Ah young Daniel," I replied, "that's exactly the point."
The Wii, due out in Europe on 8 December, is being promoted as something any member of the family can pick up - a console that "will introduce new people to the world of videogames".
So, armed with virtually zero gaming knowledge, I headed to Nintendo's offices to see if the Wii could win over a videogame-phobe.
Good-looking
I was led into a special gaming room and set in front of a small box, a screen and given a remote that was hooked around my wrist.
Despite its silly name, the Wii looked good - the console was white and sleek, and, if I was judging purely on appearance, I wouldn't be averse to one sitting in my living room.
But the characters lurching around on the screen looked decidedly peculiar. The game, I was told by Nintendo's Amerie Bagnariol, my patient host, was WarioWare: Smooth Moves and would be a good introduction to the Wii handset.
Instead of pressing buttons or moving a joystick to direct what was going on onscreen, the Wii remote is controlled by physical movement - you can jab it, wave it, wiggle it or twist it about in the air.
Hula humiliation
So move about I did. The completely bizarre game, big in Japan according to Amerie, entailed carrying out mini-tasks, such as high-fiving a puppy, shredding some paper, bursting a balloon, all for reasons I couldn't quite fathom.
And as I stood in the room, holding the remote and desperately hula-hooping, I couldn't help thinking this was more like ritual humiliation than something supposed to be fun.
But still, even if I did look like an idiot, I was getting the hang of the remote - it was a bit weird to handle at first but straightforward enough.
One of the games involved hula-hooping
Wii Sports, which is free with the console, came next. Here, I had a go at tennis, 10-pin bowling and golf, miming the swoop of a tennis racket, hurl of a bowling ball and swipe of a club with the remote.
I was doing badly - more down to a lack of sporting ability than because they were hard to play - so I thought I would release my aggression with a spot of boxing.
For this, an additional control, called a "nunchuk", was attached to my left hand, allowing me to jab, hook, block and dodge, until my opponent gave me a hefty clunk to the head and my character fell to the floor.
So much for gaming being a sedentary activity - all of the jumping about was rather tiring.
Doctors and nurses
I also tried my hand at carrying out an operation in Trauma Centre, and gripped the remote like a steering wheel for another title called Excite Truck.
So far, so OK - but I still wasn't convinced gaming was for me.
And then I met Link, in the Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.
The launch date for the Wii in Europe is 8 December
Maybe it was the cute outfit he was wearing, or perhaps it was the fun of using the remote to swipe a sword or ping an arrow, or the fact that there was some kind of narrative to what was going on that made my videogame scepticism lift.
It was definitely the game that required the most skill - using the controller to direct an arrow into an enemy's head needed excellent hand-eye coordination - but, despite this, it was probably one that I'd invest the most time trying to get the hang of.
Converted?
So, has the Wii converted me to the word of gaming?
I'm not sure I am completely won over. Playing the games was fun, and I would like to have another go on Zelda, but I'm not sure I would spend £179 for a console of my own.
However, if my brother were to become a Wii-owner, the next time he suggested a game, rather than turning my nose up, I might just be tempted to pick up the remote...
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November 2nd, 2006, 18:30 Posted By: wraggster
New from SuccessHK
Battle a powerful dragon as you live the adventure of Disney's new cartoon hero! In American Dragon: Jake Long, Attack of the Dark Dragon you'll become the American Dragon from the hit Disney cartoon. Jake Long, an ordinary thirteen-year-old Chinese American boy living in New York City, but Jake also has a secret: He's the American Dragon. Jake is a descendant of a long line of drag
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November 2nd, 2006, 18:50 Posted By: wraggster
News from Lazyone:
It’s getting closer to the next release now that the statusbar has been finished and music is being worked on.
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November 2nd, 2006, 18:54 Posted By: wraggster
Onigiri posted this update:
For those who are wondering what the status is of the port, I'll quickly explain. Angband NDS is currently in the third round of closed play testing. I had intended to have a 4th round of closed testing before a public release.
However, I've been increasingly busy so I might do a public release within the next week or two.
Basically, the port seems to be very playable with no major gameplay issues (my highest level character was a level 19 human paladin). On a cart with SRAM, saving, loading, high scores all seem to work. The bottom screen will remain unused for the initial public release. I am working on ideas for uses of the bottom screen for later releases. For now, I am concentrating on completing GBA MP support (only saving and loading currently works) and removing the final few gameplay glitches.
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November 2nd, 2006, 19:05 Posted By: wraggster
Via IGN
Just a few weeks ago Ubisoft revealed that the company had been working on a Star Wars game tailored for both the PlayStation Portable as well as the Nintendo DS. In that announcement, the company only had screens and details ready to go on the PSP rendition, leaving DS owners in the dark on what their version's going to end up becoming. Today, Ubisoft let us in on what's happening with the dual-screen portable version of Star Wars: Deadly Alliance shipping this December.
The game's in development at Ubisoft Morocco, the development team that worked on the Nintendo DS version of Peter Jackson's King Kong last year. In Star Wars: Deadly Alliance, players are thrust into an era between Star Wars Episode III and Episode IV, just before Princess Leia secured the plans for the Death Star. You're actually put into the role of Rianna Saren put to the task of securing those plans for the Princess and the Alliance.
The game's all action, running on the Nintendo DS in full 3D. Players will run through many familiar areas of the Star Wars universe, including such locations as Mustafar and Tatooine, as well as new locations on Despayre, Danuta, and Alderaan. Duke it out with the all-star cast including Boba Fett and Darth Vader.
The Nintendo DS version will have special touch-screen mini-games between the action, as well as a four player wireless multiplayer option. The current, official boxart indicates that the game might go online, though don't be surprised if it's a feature that gets the axe before the game's release.
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November 2nd, 2006, 19:06 Posted By: wraggster
Via IGN
Anyway, while playing through the first two cases of the game, I realized that this is the old Capcom at work. The Capcom that would churn out sequel after sequel with little to nothing added. Nearly everything about Gyakuten Saiban 2 is the same compared to the first game. The graphics, the interface (for the most part), hell, even the packaging is nearly the same. Then again, that's exactly what I wanted. Save for the packaging, of course.
The latest remake for the DS is pretty much the same thing, as players assume the role of Phoenix Wright as he fights for truth and justice over the span of several cases, each containing several hours of play. The first case of the game is your simple introductory case, much like the first game had a tutorial case. Of course, it's done in a roundabout way; Phoenix is assaulted during a break and has to be held by the hand by everyone in court. Sure, it's totally corny and by god is it ever painful at times, but it gets the job in introducing newer players to how cases play out, but it would've been awesome if Capcom allowed those who had played the first game to skip it altogether. Fortunately things do get much better in the second and third cases.
A couple of new characters are introduced in the sequel. The first that you'll meet is Maya Fey's little cousin, Pearl, who will be vital in times of need, since she has the same channeling powers as her older cousin. The second new character is Franziska von Karma, who is the daughter of Manfred von Karma, the prosecutor during the Edgeworth trial in the first game. Due to her father's defeat, she's out to get revenge and desires to bury Phoenix Wright and tarnish his undefeated record while maintaining her own perfect score. New additions to the game actually make the investigating portion much more interesting. Psyche-locks are basically testimonies outside of the court, where Phoenix has to unlock whatever secrets a person may have. By using an item called the Magatama, he can see locks on topics that a person may not want to answer, so it's up to him to find evidence and clues to get what he wants. Your informants may have up to three or four Psyche-locks each, but it depends entirely on the secret they carry. Of course, if you make a mistake while grilling someone, you'll be penalized, which is why the "lifebar" has also been changed. In the first game, you had a set number of points but now you have an actual lifebar that depletes if you screw up. Of course, the worse you screw up, the larger penalty you'll receive. The lifebar is concurrent throughout the entire case, so if you have a really nasty fight in court, that will result in fewer chances while investigating. By unlocking Psyche-Locks, you can refill this meter, however. Finally, the last change is the ability to present profiles as evidence, which makes things a lot more interesting because you literally have double the amount of evidence to utilize, thus making cases more complex. The stories do get a little far-fetched, I admit, but if you're able to suspend your belief a little, they're quite entertaining.
Speaking of the cases, aside from the first one, they're a lot more difficult to figure out, and they actually require a level of intuition that wasn't present in the first title, even with the later cases. Starting with the second case, which is split up into five parts, the amount of twists and turns in the story is baffling, and it would've been boring as hell if the localization was trash. Thankfully, like the first title, the script has received a wonderful translation and contains a lot of humour and references that even some of the most hardcore might miss. The Zelda reference from the second case was especially awesome. The most disappointing thing about the port is the soundtrack, which isn't nearly as strong as it should be and at times it doesn't even fit the mood of the scene. During the tensest moments of a trial, the music should have a strong, dramatic tone to it, and overall the game fails to deliver.
Word on the street is that the U.S. version of the game is hitting stores sometime in January, so if you can stand the wait, do the right thing and support Capcom USA when the game is released in the US. Does it stand up to the original game? It certainly does, and the new features make things more entertaining. Just don't expect it to help you out with your law class anytime soon.
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November 2nd, 2006, 19:19 Posted By: wraggster
Imagine using the WiiMote as a Wand and by doing different movements to do different spells, could this be a killer idea for a Wii game.
Views on my thoughts ?
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November 3rd, 2006, 02:25 Posted By: wraggster
As part of its earnings announcement today, megapublisher Electronic Arts revealed the release window of two of its highest-profile games. Crysis, Crytek's hotly anticipated PC shooter, and Army of Two, the co-op actioner for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, will now both arrive after the end of EA's current fiscal year, which ends on March 31, 2007.
"We have made some adjustments to our SKU plan that will move a couple of titles into fiscal 2008, specifically Army of Two and Crisis," EA chief financial officer Warren Jenson told analysts during a postearnings conference call.
During the same call, Jenson also confirmed that several sequels to EA's most important franchises are in the works. "Yes, there's a Sims 3 in development and it's likely to be a fiscal '09 title," said Jenson, meaning the game would hit stores before April 2009. The executive also confirmed that the Sims franchises will also be coming to two next-generation platforms--the Wii and the PlayStation 3.
"There is a Sims title that is being specifically developed for the Wii platform," said Jenson. "The Sims II holiday edition on PS3" is also coming, said the executive, indicating the game will arrive either in the 2006 or 2007 holiday season.
Several other new titles were unveiled during the call. "There will be another Lord of the Rings [game]... There's a new SimCity game in the pipeline and the next-generation version of Black. Those things alone are all new, relative to fiscal '07," said Jenson. It was unclear whether Jenson meant the games would arrive before the end of EA's 2007 fiscal year, or were just new to the company's financial plan for the 12-month period.
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November 3rd, 2006, 02:27 Posted By: wraggster
Australians have known for a few months that a Wii console will set them back AU$399.95 ($309.72) when it comes out in the country on December 7, but other pricing details have so far been sketchy. Now, Nintendo has revealed exactly how much Aussie gamers will have to pay for a complete Wii fix.
Nintendo today confirmed Australian pricing for Wii accessories, Virtual Console games, and Wii points. While the AU$399.95 Wii console will come with one Remote and one Nunchuk controller, extra Remotes will set gamers back AU$69.95 ($54.18). Extra Nunchuks will cost AU$29.95 ($23.20), as will the Classic Controller. A Wii component video cable will go for AU$49.95 ($38.70).
As for Wii Points, the currency which will be used to purchase Virtual Console games for the Wii, Aussie gamers will have to pay AU$30 ($23.24) for 2,000 points (US gamers pay $20 for 2,000 Wii points). Virtual Console NES games will cost 500 Wii points, Super NES will go for 800, and N64 titles will be 1,000 points. Sega Mega Drive titles (known as Sega Genesis in the US) will cost 800 points. And while US gamers will have 30 Virtual Console titles to choose from in December, Australians will only have 26, consisting of 16 Nintendo games and 10 Sega titles.
Nintendo also revealed the pricing of its launch games. Twilight Princess will retail for $99.95 ($77.45), Wii Play will come bundled with a Wii Remote and retail for $79.95 ($61.95), and Wii Sports will be bundled as a pack-in with the Wii. In addition to its trio of first-party launch games, the company expects around 20 third-party titles to be available in Australia for the new console in December. The full list of confirmed games can be found below.
Nintendo
Wii Sports
Wii Play
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
Ubisoft
Red Steel
Rayman: Raving Rabbids
Monster Truck 4x4: World Circuit
Open Season
GT Pro Series
Far Cry: Vengeance
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Double Agent
Activision
Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam
Call of Duty 3
Marvel Ultimate Alliance
THQ
Cars
Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz
Barnyard
SpongeBob Squarepants: Creature From the Krusty Krab
EA
Madden NFL 07
Need for Speed Carbon
Virtual Console NES games
Baseball
Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong Jr.
Ice Hockey
Mario Bros
Pinball
Soccer
Solomon's Key
Tennis
The Legend of Zelda
Urban Champion
Wario's Woods
Virtual Console SNES games
Donkey Kong Country
F-Zero
SimCity
Virtual Console N64 game
Super Mario 64
Virtual Console Sega Mega Drive games
Sonic the Hedgehog
Altered Beast
Golden Axe
Columns
Gunstar Heroes
Ecco the Dolphin
Space Harrier II
Toe Jam & Earl
Ristar
Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine
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November 3rd, 2006, 02:34 Posted By: wraggster
Via Videogameblogger
In a total shocker of an announcement, Nintendo revealed they will be showing Mario Party 8 for Wii at the Nintendo World 2006 exhibit. Yes, I’m being sarcastic. Also shown will be some Virtual Console games, the Mii channel, and hopefully some new Wii channels as well.
But I’m glad Nintendo is finally doing a year-end Nintendo-only show again in Japan. I still have the exhibit booklet of Spaceworld 2001 where they first showed some levels of the GameCube’s Super Smash Bros DX (later called Melee). And guess what? Within the next 24 hours the first in-game level & character footage from Super Smash Bros Brawl will be shown in Nagoya, Japan! Rumor has it they might even show a new character. See the list of Wii games for show at the bottom.
I couldn’t make heads or tails out of the Nintendo DS exhibition list, but 1UP translated it and found they have revealed Picross DS, 100 Poems by 100 Poets: DS Shigureden, likely a software version of their art exhibit in Kyoto, and DS Bimoji Training, a Japanese calligraphy training tool. Also slipping onto this list is Bandai Namco’s Mojipittan DS, a fast-paced word puzzle game which has already seen success on the PlayStation 2, PSP and Game Boy Advance. See the list of DS games for show at the bottom.
Full list of Wii games for show:
1. Wii Sports (Nintendo)
2. Hajimete no Wii: Your First Step To Wii (Nintendo)
3. Odoru Made in Wario (Nintendo)
4. Zelda no Densetsu: Twilight Princess (Nintendo)
5. Pokemon Battle Revolution (Nintendo)
6. Excite Truck (Nintendo)
7. Wii Yawaraka Atama Juku (Nintendo)
8. Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo)
9. Fire Emblem: Akatsuki no Megami (Nintendo)
10. Mario Strikers Charged (Nintendo)
11. Mario Party 8 (Nintendo)
12. Metroid Prime 3: Corruption (Nintendo)
13. Hajime no Ippo - The Fighting! Revolution (AQ Interactive)
14. Call of Duty 3 (Activision)
15. Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam (Activision)
16. Caduceus Z: 2-tsu no Chou Shittou [Trauma Center] (Atlus)
17. Marvel: Ultimate Alliance (Activision)
18. GT Pro Series (MTO)
19. Need For Speed Carbon (EA) - Elebits (Konami)
20. Dragon Quest Swords: The Masked Queen and the Tower of Mirrors (Square Enix)
21. Necro-Nesia (Spike)
22. Bleach Wii: Hakujin Kirameku Rondo (Sega)
23. Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz (Sega)
24. Sonic to Himitsu Ring (Sega)
25. Cooking Mama: Minna to Issho ni Oryouri Taikai! (Taito)
26. Densha de Go! Shinkansen: 06 Sanyou Shinkansen Hen (Taito)
27. Furu Furu Park (Taito)
28. Swing Golf Pangya (Tecmo)
29. Sudoku (Hudson)
30. Wing Island (Hudson)
31. Kororinpa (Hudson)
32. Bomberman Land Wii (Hudson)
33. Tsuri Master (Hudson)
34. SD Gundam: Scud Hammers (Bandai Namco)
35. Ennichi no Tatsujin (Bandai Namco)
36. Tamagotchi no Pika Pika Daito-ryo-! (Bandai Namco)
37. Dragon Ball Z Sparking! NEO (Bandai Namco)
38. One Piece Unlimited Adventure (Bandai Namco)
39. Crayon Shin-Chan: Saikyou Kazoku Kasukabe King Wii (Banpresto)
40. Bokujou Monogatari Wii (Marvelous)
41. The Dog Island (Yuke’s)
42. Monster 4X4: World Circuit (Ubisoft)
43. Rayman Rabbids Party (Ubisoft)
44. Red Steel (Ubisoft)
Full list of DS games for show:
1. Kirby: Calling On! Dorocche Gang [Squeak Squad] (Nintendo)
2. Common Sense Training for Adults (Nintendo)
3. Pokemon Diamond/Pearl (Pokemon/Nintendo)
4. Talking DS Cookbook! (Nintendo)
5. Tetris DS (Nintendo)
6. English Training (Nintendo)
7. More Brain Training (Nintendo)
8. Everybody’s Play Encyclopedia (Nintendo)
9. Big Brain Academy (Nintendo)
10. DS Rakubiki Jiten plus Kanji (Nintendo)
11. Adult Brain Training (Nintendo)
12. Nintendogs [Dalmatian and Friends] (Nintendo)
13. 100 Poems by 100 Famous Poets (Nintendo)
14. DS Prose Training [Calligraphy Training] (tentative name, Nintendo)
15. Wish Room: Angel’s Memory [Hotel Dusk] (Nintendo)
16. Phantom Wario: the Seven [Wario Land Thief?] (Nintendo)
17. 1000 Healthy Recipes DS Collection (Nintendo)
18. Jump Ultimate Stars (Nintendo)
19. Chibi-Robo! DS (tentative, Nintendo)
20. Picross DS (Nintendo)
21. Rhythm Tengoku (GBA, Nintendo)
22. Sekaiki no Meikyuu (Atlus)
23. SimCity DS (EA)
24. Phoenix Wright 4 (Capcom)
25. Meteor Rockman: Dragon/Pegasus/Leo (Capcom)
26. Atelier Lees: Ondore Alchemist (Gusto)
27. Castlevania: Gallery of the Labyrinth (Konami)
28. Powerful Pro Baseball Pocket (Konami)
29. Boktai: Django & Sabata (Konami)
30. DS Kageyama Method Computerized Repetition: Math (Shogakukan)
31. It’s a Wonderful World (Square Enix)
32. Chocobo and the Magical Picture Book (Square Enix)
33. Dragon Quest Monsters: Joker (Square Enix)
34. Gotouchi Kentei DS (Spike)
35. Bleach DS 2nd: Kokui Hirameku Requiem (Sega)
36. Fashionable Witches Love and Berry ~DS Collection~ (Sega)
37. Romance of the Three Kingdoms DS (Sega)
38. Mysterious Dungeon: Fuurai no Siren DS (Sega)
39. Naruto: Ninja Biographies (Takara/Tomy)
40. Puzzle Series Vol. 9: Sudoku 2 (Hudson)
41. Word Puzzle: Moji Pittan DS (Bandai-Namco)
42. Heisei Board of Education DS (Bandai-Namco)
43. Harvest Moon: Home Island (Marvelous)
44. Professor Layton and the Mysterious Village (Level 5)
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November 3rd, 2006, 02:34 Posted By: wraggster
Via Videogameblogger
In a total shocker of an announcement, Nintendo revealed they will be showing Mario Party 8 for Wii at the Nintendo World 2006 exhibit. Yes, I’m being sarcastic. Also shown will be some Virtual Console games, the Mii channel, and hopefully some new Wii channels as well.
But I’m glad Nintendo is finally doing a year-end Nintendo-only show again in Japan. I still have the exhibit booklet of Spaceworld 2001 where they first showed some levels of the GameCube’s Super Smash Bros DX (later called Melee). And guess what? Within the next 24 hours the first in-game level & character footage from Super Smash Bros Brawl will be shown in Nagoya, Japan! Rumor has it they might even show a new character. See the list of Wii games for show at the bottom.
I couldn’t make heads or tails out of the Nintendo DS exhibition list, but 1UP translated it and found they have revealed Picross DS, 100 Poems by 100 Poets: DS Shigureden, likely a software version of their art exhibit in Kyoto, and DS Bimoji Training, a Japanese calligraphy training tool. Also slipping onto this list is Bandai Namco’s Mojipittan DS, a fast-paced word puzzle game which has already seen success on the PlayStation 2, PSP and Game Boy Advance. See the list of DS games for show at the bottom.
Full list of Wii games for show:
1. Wii Sports (Nintendo)
2. Hajimete no Wii: Your First Step To Wii (Nintendo)
3. Odoru Made in Wario (Nintendo)
4. Zelda no Densetsu: Twilight Princess (Nintendo)
5. Pokemon Battle Revolution (Nintendo)
6. Excite Truck (Nintendo)
7. Wii Yawaraka Atama Juku (Nintendo)
8. Super Mario Galaxy (Nintendo)
9. Fire Emblem: Akatsuki no Megami (Nintendo)
10. Mario Strikers Charged (Nintendo)
11. Mario Party 8 (Nintendo)
12. Metroid Prime 3: Corruption (Nintendo)
13. Hajime no Ippo - The Fighting! Revolution (AQ Interactive)
14. Call of Duty 3 (Activision)
15. Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam (Activision)
16. Caduceus Z: 2-tsu no Chou Shittou [Trauma Center] (Atlus)
17. Marvel: Ultimate Alliance (Activision)
18. GT Pro Series (MTO)
19. Need For Speed Carbon (EA) - Elebits (Konami)
20. Dragon Quest Swords: The Masked Queen and the Tower of Mirrors (Square Enix)
21. Necro-Nesia (Spike)
22. Bleach Wii: Hakujin Kirameku Rondo (Sega)
23. Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz (Sega)
24. Sonic to Himitsu Ring (Sega)
25. Cooking Mama: Minna to Issho ni Oryouri Taikai! (Taito)
26. Densha de Go! Shinkansen: 06 Sanyou Shinkansen Hen (Taito)
27. Furu Furu Park (Taito)
28. Swing Golf Pangya (Tecmo)
29. Sudoku (Hudson)
30. Wing Island (Hudson)
31. Kororinpa (Hudson)
32. Bomberman Land Wii (Hudson)
33. Tsuri Master (Hudson)
34. SD Gundam: Scud Hammers (Bandai Namco)
35. Ennichi no Tatsujin (Bandai Namco)
36. Tamagotchi no Pika Pika Daito-ryo-! (Bandai Namco)
37. Dragon Ball Z Sparking! NEO (Bandai Namco)
38. One Piece Unlimited Adventure (Bandai Namco)
39. Crayon Shin-Chan: Saikyou Kazoku Kasukabe King Wii (Banpresto)
40. Bokujou Monogatari Wii (Marvelous)
41. The Dog Island (Yuke’s)
42. Monster 4X4: World Circuit (Ubisoft)
43. Rayman Rabbids Party (Ubisoft)
44. Red Steel (Ubisoft)
Full list of DS games for show:
1. Kirby: Calling On! Dorocche Gang [Squeak Squad] (Nintendo)
2. Common Sense Training for Adults (Nintendo)
3. Pokemon Diamond/Pearl (Pokemon/Nintendo)
4. Talking DS Cookbook! (Nintendo)
5. Tetris DS (Nintendo)
6. English Training (Nintendo)
7. More Brain Training (Nintendo)
8. Everybody’s Play Encyclopedia (Nintendo)
9. Big Brain Academy (Nintendo)
10. DS Rakubiki Jiten plus Kanji (Nintendo)
11. Adult Brain Training (Nintendo)
12. Nintendogs [Dalmatian and Friends] (Nintendo)
13. 100 Poems by 100 Famous Poets (Nintendo)
14. DS Prose Training [Calligraphy Training] (tentative name, Nintendo)
15. Wish Room: Angel’s Memory [Hotel Dusk] (Nintendo)
16. Phantom Wario: the Seven [Wario Land Thief?] (Nintendo)
17. 1000 Healthy Recipes DS Collection (Nintendo)
18. Jump Ultimate Stars (Nintendo)
19. Chibi-Robo! DS (tentative, Nintendo)
20. Picross DS (Nintendo)
21. Rhythm Tengoku (GBA, Nintendo)
22. Sekaiki no Meikyuu (Atlus)
23. SimCity DS (EA)
24. Phoenix Wright 4 (Capcom)
25. Meteor Rockman: Dragon/Pegasus/Leo (Capcom)
26. Atelier Lees: Ondore Alchemist (Gusto)
27. Castlevania: Gallery of the Labyrinth (Konami)
28. Powerful Pro Baseball Pocket (Konami)
29. Boktai: Django & Sabata (Konami)
30. DS Kageyama Method Computerized Repetition: Math (Shogakukan)
31. It’s a Wonderful World (Square Enix)
32. Chocobo and the Magical Picture Book (Square Enix)
33. Dragon Quest Monsters: Joker (Square Enix)
34. Gotouchi Kentei DS (Spike)
35. Bleach DS 2nd: Kokui Hirameku Requiem (Sega)
36. Fashionable Witches Love and Berry ~DS Collection~ (Sega)
37. Romance of the Three Kingdoms DS (Sega)
38. Mysterious Dungeon: Fuurai no Siren DS (Sega)
39. Naruto: Ninja Biographies (Takara/Tomy)
40. Puzzle Series Vol. 9: Sudoku 2 (Hudson)
41. Word Puzzle: Moji Pittan DS (Bandai-Namco)
42. Heisei Board of Education DS (Bandai-Namco)
43. Harvest Moon: Home Island (Marvelous)
44. Professor Layton and the Mysterious Village (Level 5)
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November 3rd, 2006, 02:44 Posted By: wraggster
Today Namco Bandai announced that the music puzzle game Gunpey DS has gone gold. In homage to the game's late, legendary creator Gunpei Yokoi, Q Entertainment has finished putting its updated spin on the title, a fast-paced puzzle game that flaunts sharp graphics and music-based gameplay. With a slew of playable characters, unlockable musical extras, multiplayer capabilities, and a plethora of original music, Gunpey is a portable puzzle game to watch this holiday season.
"While deceptively simple upon first glance, Gunpey offers hardcore gamers a true challenge and surprising depth as their skill level develops," said Naruo Uchida, VP of Localization at Namco Bandai. "Frenetic gameplay combines seamlessly with Q Entertainment's trademark visuals and music to create a truly unique, visceral puzzle gaming experience."
The game's original designer, Gunpei Yokoi, was on Nintendo's payroll for years and is the man behind the Game & Watch series, the Game Boy, and, unfortunately, the Virtual Boy. He also designed the WonderSwan handheld system, but was killed in a car crash before its release. Gunpey was his last game design.
Via IGN
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November 3rd, 2006, 07:34 Posted By: wraggster
New from Play Asia:
features
Gather evidence, talk to witnesses, and use items to further the investigation!
Four bizarre cases! Find a missing person, track down a stolen dream, and more!
Touch-screen, dual-screen puzzle-solving that takes full advantage of the Nintendo DS!
description
After her father unexpectedly passes away, Mackenzie inherits the family business: a renowned detective agency in a fantastic world of mystery and intrigue. With the aid of her investigative assistant Funghi and her faithful servant Cromwell, Mackenzie sets off to prove herself worthy of being called... the Touch Detective!
More Info -->http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1iwj.html
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November 3rd, 2006, 07:45 Posted By: wraggster
New from Play Asia:
Konductra challenges players to create and destroy lines with colored tiles to either earn points or attack an opponent. This unique, but elegant puzzle title offers four game modes, including Task, Score, VS. CPU, and VS. Human. In both versus modes, the objective is to beat the opponent by filling up the rival’s board as quickly as possible by destroying lines on the player’s own board and sending them to the opponent’s board. Gamers destroy lines by matching tiles and using the stylus to trace from like colored conductors running along the four edges of the screen.
The bottom touch screen is where the game is played. The top screen shows integral information about the game being played. The built-in tutorial, with speech, offers a helpful overview of game basics.
Price: US$ 39.90 (~21.12 GBP)
More Info --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1imc.html
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November 3rd, 2006, 07:47 Posted By: wraggster
New from Play Asia:
Scurge: Hive, features fast-paced action and survival in a massive single player adventure. Take control of Jenosa Arma, abandoned in a research facility that has been quarantined to suppress the spreading of an infection that could destroy all life. Collect power-ups to increase your strength and abilities as you overcome puzzles and obstacles and take on hoards of enemies intent on your destruction. There is nowhere to hide from the Scurge!
Explore a massive world consisting of over 350 levels ranging from indoor, outdoor, above and below ground settings. Engage over 50 enemies in fast paced real time combat.
Price: US$ 39.90 (~21.12 GBP)
More Info --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1f9p.html
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November 3rd, 2006, 16:52 Posted By: wraggster
A new trailer shown at the Nintendo World Tour in Japan has revealed that Fox McCloud, the lead character from the much loved Star Fox series, will appear in Super Smash Bros. Brawl, in development for Wii.
Fox isn't a new character to the Smash Bros. series, having already appeared in the N64 and GameCube editions, but his absence from the lengthy E3 trailer lead to suspicions that he might not be included.
The highly anticipated Nintendo all-star brawler is due for release in 2007. The latter half of the year, we're guessing.
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November 3rd, 2006, 16:53 Posted By: wraggster
Flicking through this mass of new Banana Blitz screenshots, you will see everything from tilt-platform levels in a variety of environments, various bosses to a wide selection of the 50 minigames in action.
It's all good stuff, and with all those great-looking mini games, Monkey Ball will hopefully provide four-player laughs long after the five games in Wii Sports get ultra boring. Monkey Ball fans will get their fix of ball-rolling action on December 8, alongside the launch of the Wii.
Massive amount of screens here
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November 3rd, 2006, 16:58 Posted By: wraggster
You could have spent the past two years glued to your PC monitor, reading every morsel of info ever written about the Wii but, as Nintendo is always keen to stress, this is one console that really has to be played.
That's why Nintendo will be showing off its new console at various venues around the UK in a tour that kicks off next Friday in Dublin. Check below for the full list of confirmed dates and locations, and be sure to get your nearest venue date in your diary.
Toys 4 Big Boys, Dublin - 10th-12th November
Good Food Show, London - 10th-12th November
Bluewater Shopping Centre, Kent (A) - 16th-18th November
Buchanan Galleries, Glasgow - 16th-18th November
Bullring, Birmingham - 16th-18th November
Churchill Square, Brighton - 16th-18th November
Good Food Show, Birmingham NEC - 22nd-26th November
Lakeside, Essex - 23rd-25th November
UK Golf Show, Birmingham NEC - 24th-26th November
Meadowhall, Sheffield - 30th November-2nd December
Cribbs Causeway, Bristol - 30th November-2nd December
The Oracle, Reading - 30th November-2nd December
Clotheshow Live 2006, Birmingham NEC - 1st-6th December
Luton Airport (A) - 4th-10th December
Gatwick North (A) - 4th-10th December
Manchester Metropolitan University - 6th December
UCD, Dublin University - 6th December
Arndale Centre, Manchester - 7th-9th December
Mahon Point, Cork - 7th-10th December
Gatwick South (A) - 11th-17th December
Stansted Airport (A) - 11th-17th December
Centre MK, Milton Keynes (A) - 18th-24th December
Irn Bru Carnival, Glasgow SECC - 23rd December - 14th January
The Liberty, Romford - 2nd-7th January
White Rose, Leeds - 2nd-7th January
Castlecourt, Belfast - 2nd-7th January
Brent Cross Shopping Centre, London - 9th-14th January
The Gyle, Edinburgh - 9th-14th January
West Quay Centre, Southampton - 9th-14th January
Bristol University - 17th January
St David's Centre, Cardiff - 18th-21st January
Nottingham Trent University - 24th January
The Shires, Leicester - 25th-27th January
Sheffield Hallam University - 31st January
Glasgow University - 31st January
Trinity College Dublin - 31st January
Luton Airport (B) - 5th - 11th Feb
Gatwick South (B) - 5th-18th Feb
Xscape, Braehead - 17th-18th Feb
The Victoria Centre, Nottingham - 19th-25th Feb
Gatwick North (B) - 19th-25th Feb
Stansted Airport (B) - 19th Feb - 4th March
Xscape, Castleford Leeds - 24th-25th Feb
Centre MK, Milton Keynes (B) - 28th Feb - 3rd march
Braehead Shopping Centre, Glasgow - 5th-11th March
Crufts 2007, Birmingham NEC - 8th-11th March
Ideal Home Show, Earl's Court London - 9th March - 1st April
Quad Show, Birmingham NEC - 16th-18th March
Bluewater Shopping Centre, Kent (B) - 16th-18th March
Vitality Show, London Olympia - 29th March - 1st April
Memorabilia Show, Birmingham NEC - 31st March - 1st April
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November 3rd, 2006, 17:11 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo of Europe marketing director Dawn Paine has told GamesIndustry.biz that the company is confident the Wii will be a sell-out success this Christmas.
Nintendo plans to launch its largest ever sampling campaign in the UK this month, with a two month tour set to run from November 10 until January 13.
The tour will visit more than 60 locations across the UK and Ireland, and Nintendo intends to give one million consumers the chance to try out the Wii by the time the console launches on December 8.
"To really understand how fantastic Wii is, you really need to get your hands on it and play it. It's that straightforward," Paine told GI.biz.
"It's such a departure from anything else. It's not just necessarily about the graphics - it is just much more about the gameplay and understanding how the interface works."
The tour will focus on key mainstream and family destinations, including shopping centres such as Bluewater, the Birmingham Bullring and Sheffield's Meadow Hall. Consumers will also be able to try out the Wii at events like the Good Food Show, the Ideal Home Exhibition and Glasgow's Irn Bru Carnival.
There are two ways consumers will be able to try out the Wii. Firstly, a series of modular sets have been created to look like fully furnished living rooms and bedrooms, into which people are free to walk and start playing. Nintendo will also supply a series of "busking units" which can easily be unloaded and moved around.
"From a sampling perspective, because the tour is going to be so broad, we're going to be in locations where we're engaging with different types of consumer," Paine explained, adding that retailers have so far been "thrilled" with what they've seen of Nintendo's marketing plans.
"If we're in a shopping mall where there are maybe ten different retailers, once people have played it and realised how great it is, then obviously it gives them an opportunity to pick up a sale on the day."
When asked if the Wii is likely to sell out this Christmas, Paine replied, "I'm absolutely sure it will," adding, "Pre-orders are looking very, very healthy."
The Wii will launch in the UK alongside more than 20 games - just three of which will be first party titles. But according to Paine, "Our point of view is not to get too parochial as to whether it's first or third party, because obviously we've got a plethora of third party games there as well. We believe we've got a really great line-up across both first and third party."
Nor is Nintendo concerned with competing against the Xbox 360 - the Wii's main rival for Christmas cash now that the European launch of PlayStation 3 has been delayed until March.
"We don't want to sound arrogant or complacent about this, but from our point of view, we're just such a different entity and experience from anything else in the marketplace that we don't really see anything else as competition," Paine said.
"Because our product has got such broad mainstream appeal, we're sure that we're going to sell through all of our Christmas stock. We know that retail are so enthused about Wii that we're pretty much going to be taking over retail at Christmas. We're just really confident that Wii's going to be the huge hit."
But what about next year, when Sony's new console is also on the shelves - is Wii likely to be the market leader come Christmas 2007?
"I believe so, yes," said Paine. "We're confident that Wii is going to take the UK market by storm, so when I get my crystal ball out, yes, that's what we would see happening next year."
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November 3rd, 2006, 17:17 Posted By: wraggster
It's not in 3D and you don't have to wave your arms around like an epileptic jellyfish just to shoot. And with two of our worst fears carefully sidestepped, we can show you these lovely new screens from Metal Slug Anthology on Wii.
That's right, those clever chaps at SNK have decided to include six different control systems for this package of classic Slugs so, while you can opt for the fully motion sensitive system, there is also a neat fusion of the modern and the retro that uses the Nunchuk for movement and only waves the wand to throw a grenade.
And while we can't wait to get our hands on this festival of 'The Slug', your eyes can at least dine out on the vast array of screens on the images tab culled from this much-loved shooter.
Screens Here
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November 3rd, 2006, 17:21 Posted By: wraggster
The kiosk hounds of NeoGAF snapped a handful of photos of the up and running Gamestop Wii display units, only to uncover a heretofore unknown (possible) option for Monster Games racer Excite Truck.
Appearing on the sound options menu, the SD Card option, seemingly inactive here, leads us to believe that the potential for reading MP3's from the memory card will at least be an option in one game.
Nintendo has made mention of MP3 playback previously, indicating that custom soundtracks would be available during Wii Photo Channel slideshows. This makes the muddin' hayseed within want to fire up some Mountain or Skynyrd... hell, any southern rock will do... and pick up Excite Truck at launch. Curse you and your attractive feature set, Excite Truck
More Info
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November 3rd, 2006, 17:22 Posted By: wraggster
The top slot on YouTube today was occupied by Link and crew in a new Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess trailer. It barely managed to pass the second place winner, which was the intro video from the same game. If you ask us, the intro video is a bit more spine tingling, especially with the "Press A + B" menu at the start screen, *drool*. This trailer has no sound effects, no lines, just a (somewhat cheesy) fanfare-tastic soundtrack and lots of video goodness from the game. Link's wolf transition looks a bit weak, but we're hoping it's just a trimmed down version in the vid.
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November 3rd, 2006, 17:39 Posted By: wraggster
New at SuccessHK
"Dragon up" in Disney s American Dragon: Jake Long, Rise of the Huntsclan! Help Jake stop the Huntsman and their allies from gathering items needed for a revival ritual that could empower them to destroy New York City in this fast-paced, action-adventure game! Encounter sub-human creatures at every turn on your quest to conquer the enemy and save the day.
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November 4th, 2006, 01:27 Posted By: wraggster
Via CVG:
The launch of the Wii console is little over a month away now, and although we've analysed every aspect of the innovative new console under the world's most powerful magnifying glass, it still conceals a few mysteries - particularly in the Virtual Console.
With the full list of launch-day Virtual Console games having been released earlier this week, we thought it the perfect time to focus on the retro download service and uncover some of those mysteries.
So we threw a barrage of questions at Nintendo and got back some interesting information - how the games are stored, how much they'll cost and more. Check it out below and, if you have any more questions of your own, throw them down in the comments section and we'll put them to Nintendo for answers.
Can games be stored on external media such as SD cards, and what happens if you run out of storage space?
Nintendo: Games that are downloaded can be stored either to the Wii's internal memory (512MB) or onto SD cards, which plug into the SD slot on the front of the Wii. In addition the console also stores a history of all of your downloads so that if you have to delete any VC games for any reason you could re-download them for free at a later date.
Will you be able to take your VC games to a mate's house, say, on an SD card?
Nintendo: No. All VC games will be locked to the console they are downloaded on so even if they are on an SD card they can't be used on other machines. You will have to take your Wii with you.
Does that mean that if your console breaks you lose your VC games forever?
Nintendo: No. Nintendo will offer support to help Wii owners with problems to recover their games.
GameCube games are played with GameCube pads. Can they be played with the Classic controller too, for those who don't actually have any GC pads?
Nintendo: Nintendo GameCube games can only be played using Nintendo GameCube controllers. The Classic Controller will not work on these games.
Can you specify which controllers it will be possible to use for each of the VC games types (NES, SNES, PC Engine, N64)?
Nintendo: All virtual console games can be played using the Classic Controller or Nintendo GameCube pads. The Wii Remote can also be turned on its side and used as a traditional controller to play NES games. However, a game will only be playable with the control mechanism it was designed for. So, for example, you will play NES games with the D-pad, not an analogue stick or motion-sensitive functionality.
When using a mixture of Wii and GameCube controllers, the Wii Remote or Classic Controller will take priority. So if you have two Classic Controllers plugged in they instantly become player one and two regardless of how many GameCube pads are inserted.
What about game manuals?
Nintendo: Each Virtual Console game downloaded will come with a digital instruction manual.
We are already aware that you won't be able to gain access to the Japanese or American VC in UK with a UK console. But if you import a US or Japanese Wii into UK, will that machine be capable of accessing the UK VC servers to download and play games made available to us Brits?
Nintendo: No. The European Virtual Console will be available only to European machines. If you import an American machine they would have to connect to the American service and use American Wii Points cards to buy content. Their warranty would also be void so this is not recommended.
Will there be a range of Wii Points cards available? How much will they cost?
Nintendo: At first, only 2000-point cards will be available. These will retail for £14.99.
Will you be able to buy VC Points via the internet through Wii using a credit card, like you can with Xbox 360's Marketplace?
Nintendo: Yes. Wii points can also be bought online via the Wii Shop using all major credit cards and will be credited to your account. A total of 10,000 points can be stored on your Wii account at any one time.
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November 4th, 2006, 01:40 Posted By: wraggster
Via Gamespot
Gamers asking themselves "How much is that Tamagotchi in the window?" will get their answers shortly. Namco Bandai today announced that the DS game Tamagotchi Connect: Corner Shop 2 has gone gold and will be in stores on November 14.
The game, which has already sold well in Japan, features more than 100 Tamagotchi and a dozen shops for players to look after. By providing stellar customer service to townsfolk, gamers will be awarded upgrades that can be applied to their storefronts. Various items can also be traded between Corner Shop 2 owners using the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.
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November 4th, 2006, 01:41 Posted By: wraggster
It's a golden era for Nintendo gaming as the company is preparing to launch its latest console, the Wii, in a few weeks. It's also quickly becoming a golden era for several of the system's games, as developers wrap up work on titles and send them off to factory for replication.
The second Wii game to be announced as going gold is Atari's Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2, following Sega's Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz. Both games will be on shelves alongside the Wii on November 19 in North America.
The game features more than 120 playable characters, 16 destructible environments, and nine gameplay modes. Based on the Dragon Ball Z anime, the game lets players duke it out in both single- and multiplayer.
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November 4th, 2006, 01:54 Posted By: wraggster
"Please insert your Wii Startup Disc. This will set up your Wii console."
The mysterious Wii Startup Disc that was listed on the back of the Wii box has been summoned in public. While glancing over the Wii kiosk set up at the South Shore Mall Software Etc. in Bay Shore, NY, Paul Miller snapped a photograph, with the Wii console pleading (with the above message) for the Startup Disc. The request is written in only English, Spanish and French, implying that the disk is region-specific.
It may be a last-minute firmware update, but why not have the console download the update when it connects? After all, Wii is supposed to be connected 24 hours a day. Maybe Nintendo doesn't trust its customers, and the Startup Disc is a mandatory orientation film on how to properly handle the Wiimote (think LOST). Or it might just be a very lame game -- "insert the disc and win!" -- that boosts your self-esteem.
Let's say the Wii Startup Disc is a region-specific firmware update. If a US Wii owner could obtain a Japanese startup disc, could he or she enjoy a more expansive Virtual Console launch lineup?
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November 4th, 2006, 02:27 Posted By: wraggster
Infantile Paralyser have released a new version of the image viewer app for the Nintendo DS:
Some fatal bugs were corrected by the disk access and the file search.
A vertical mode and a horizontal mode can be chosen. (Added function icon)
In a single mode of the slide show, the right and left can be chosen.
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November 4th, 2006, 02:31 Posted By: wraggster
Zarxrax:
- Fixed lots of bugs
- Larger, easier to read font
- Cards can now contain much more text
- Supports more than one text file at a time (this is not very useful yet)
- Keeps track of how many cards you have answered correctly
Heres more info about this release.
The basic idea of the program is essentially the same as physical flash cards: you put a word on one side, and a definition or translation or whatever on the other. You look at one side, then see if you can guess the answer. Then you flip the card over and look at the answer, to see if you guessed correctly. The "right and wrong" buttons really don't do much of anything yet aside from advance to the next card, but eventually the program will keep track of the cards you mark correct and the ones you mark incorrect. This means that you could potentially put thousands of cards into the database, and you don't have to waste time going through the ones that you know well--the program will be able to focus on the ones that you have trouble with.
As for the drawing pad, I mainly included it for studying kanji. If and when this program gets the ability to display kanji characters as text, it will be useful to practice drawing them.
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November 4th, 2006, 02:34 Posted By: wraggster
New from Lick
libcartreset is a library that allows all ds homebrewers to add the return to gba flash cartridge-feature. Note that the library is still progressing and needs a lot of tests on as many devices as possible. Currently, all Supercard devices, all M3 devices, all EZ-Flash IV devices and the hacked GBAMP are supported.
Please report any bugs and all not working devices, so I can improve the library.
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November 4th, 2006, 02:37 Posted By: wraggster
Via Siliconera
If impersonation is a form of flattery Cooking Mama should be blushing. MTO takes the gameplay concepts of Cooking Mama and similar graphics to make Edamoto Naomi no Shiawase Kitchen. The game does have some differences like mini games where you go on quests to make meals and a design your own kitchen feature. Copycat or not fans of the cooking genre might want to give MTO’s game a look. Learning the 50+ meals and designing a kitchen of doom should tide them over until Cooking Mama: Cook Out in 2007.
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November 4th, 2006, 02:43 Posted By: wraggster
The Man of Steel is finally ready to battle Lex Luthor. Following a lengthy delay, EA's Superman Returns: The Videogame has gone gold for Xbox 360, PS2, Xbox, Nintendo DS and GBA.
Developed by Tiburon, makers of Madden, Superman Returns gives unprecedented control over DC Comics' greatest hero. Players can take flight with the Last Son of Krypton in more than 100 missions across Metropolis' 80 square miles. Expect to battle some of Superman's greatest foes, including Bizarro, Metallo and Mongul.
Suggested retail prices for Superman Returns range from $59.99 on the 360 to $39.99 on current-gen systems to $29.99 on handheld systems.
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November 4th, 2006, 17:36 Posted By: wraggster
All this week, and last week, Nintendo has been inviting game journalists up to their manse to have some extensive hands-on time with Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. At 1up Jeremy Parish has an extensive look at the game, with screenshots, impressions of the Wii control scheme, and a detailed look at the title's first few hours. From the article:
"The bulk of swordplay, however, is controlled by moving the entire Wii Remote. Contrary to common opinion, this doesn't entail making massive swiping motions. Although it's certainly possible to wield the remote like an actual sword, a simple flick of the wrist will cause Link to attack. How you move the controller also has no bearing on the kind of strike you make. By default, Link sweeps horizontally; for a vertical slice, you must first lock on to a target. And a swing executed while pressing forward on the analog stick results in a stabbing thrust."
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November 4th, 2006, 17:40 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo lifted what appears to be the first of at least one more embargo late last night on advanced industry previews of the highly anticipated Zelda: Twilight Princess for Wii. Rather than getting in the way of what's being said, let's cut to the chase:
GameDaily - "Twilight Princess may be the greatest Zelda ever ... Jaded critics will no doubt find lots to complain about, but don't listen to them. Twilight Princess is not only the Wii's quintessential killer app, but also one of the best adventure games to come along since Resident Evil 4."
Game|Life - "I was worried that the Wii version of the game would be rendered gimmicky and unsuitable for long-term play sessions. But now I've played it, and not only has every lingering speck of doubt been scrubbed clean, I was actually shocked at how well it worked."
Gamespot - "Twilight Princess' now-mandatory use of the Wii remote has been the subject of much 'love it/hate it' talk online, and we'll admit to mixed emotions ourselves after having played it the first times, but after spending a longer period with it, we have to say that we're still on the fence but leaning towards being cool with it--with some reservations."
1UP - "If Twilight Princess manages to uphold the level of quality seen in its opening hours for the entire duration of the adventure, it will unquestionably go down as one of the greats. Imagine Ocarina of Time, but polished and expanded and refined and generally perfected."
Kotaku - "The game is remarkably cinematic, but not in the cheesy Hollywood-wannabe way that so often traps the gaming industry ... Does Twilight Princess need to be on the Wii? Probably not. But the game is a little better for it."
Planet GameCube - "But ever since the announcement of the Wii version, there has been the debate over which version of Zelda is going to control better. My friends, the debate is over: Wii Zelda is the real deal."
IGN - "If Wii Sports is for the non-gamers, Twilight Princess is for the hardcore. After I spent 10 hours with the game, I barely managed to squeak by two temples, with the third so far off that I could scarcely imagine getting there, let alone approach the objective. (For the record, out of 30 or so journalists, nobody came close to the third temple.)"
GoNintendo - "I seriously cannot see myself playing the Cube version and enjoying it nearly as much. I know that it is the same core game...and I would enjoy the story just as much...but the physical connection of actually feeling like Link is absolutely priceless."
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November 4th, 2006, 19:32 Posted By: freemaan
I've released IRCDS 0.3b.
Now it supports blowfish and skins.
Check readme.txt inside the archive or visit my homepage for more info.
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November 4th, 2006, 20:33 Posted By: JKKDARK
Finally, after 3 mounths, there is a new version of the Game Boy Advance/Nintendo DS emulator for Windows.
Changelog:
nds/help: nds-bitmaps can be wrapped (that unlike gba-bitmaps) (thanks remi)
nds/video: emulates optional wrap-around (area overflow) for nds bitmap-modes
nds/video: emulates read-only 2d-engine-b ports as read-only (thanks remi)
nds/3d: texture transformation mode 1 supports negative m[8,9,12,13] values
nds/3d/boxtest: fast onscreen pre_check on any of all 8 coordinates of box
nds/3d/boxtest: fast offscreen pre_check on all 8 coordinates of whole-box
nds/3d/boxtest: fast offscreen pre_check on all 4 coordinates of box-face
video/speedup: faster bg drawing when special effects disabled (blend/bright)
reg/home: moved all users to usa, avoids paypal-german-language-service (remi)
reg/full: new parity and decrypt.jpg encryption by headless marching soldiers
reg/full: discontinued free nds-updates for older (than 12 months) gba-users
reg/full: registration tool auto-generates invoices for commercial users
reg/home: new file-ext .key (some servers now declare .bin as potential virus)
sync: forces machine_switch on retrace, forces to be 1st machine after retrace
gui/f1_key: HELP_FORCEFILE instead HELP_CONTENTS (preserves current chapter)
webpage: added donate buttons on gba,msx,cpc,nes,2k6,zx8,c64 freeware pages
email: new email address - please do NOT put it online - due to spam problems
nds/3d: bug-fixed GX "nop" command (to have 0 parameters, instead 1 parameter)
emu/help: described + emulated gba/nds7 dummy cp14-icebreaker (prefetch data)
nds/cpu: emulates cp15 ctrl bit15 (pre-v5 ldr/ldm/pop pc.bit0=thumb disabled)
cpu: emulates/ignores misaligned r15 in LDM [Rb],r15 (with optional warning)
nds/help: added some basic specs on DS Memory Timings (in DS Various chapter)
nds/3d: bugfixed texture transform (imul_op=64bit, instead imul_eax,op=32bit)
cpu: emulates empty rlist (load/store r15 on ARMv4, Rb=Rb+/-40h on ARMv4/v5)
cpu: emulates writeback-base-included-in-rlist (for all stm/ldm/v4/v5/tmb/arm)
cpu/help: added info on invalid rlist's for ARMv4/v5 THUMB/ARM LDM/STM opcodes
cpu: bugfixed arm9 q(d)add/sub (xor 7fffffffh instead 7ffffffh, one more f)
nds/sound: emulates sound output speaker routing and speaker stereo panning
nds/sound: emulates sound-hold (freezes output until hold=0 or next re-start)
nds/sound: optionally mono output, optionally disabled, on machine 1 only
nds/sound: allows "dumb loops" when reading non-irq-timed sound status regs
nds/sound/help: described hold flag (can't hold on restart, apparently bugged)
nds/sound/help: described the two different ch(a)+ch(b) addition outputs
nds/sound/help: described capture errors (both negative and overflow bugs)
nds/sound: emulates minmax clipping, fully emulates all sound capture errors
gba/sound: fixed small ch4 glitch (occured when only one stereo side was on)
gba/sound: bugfix: recurses channel 3 wave ram bank number/bank size changes
gba/sound: emulates minmax clipping, corrected channel-volume vs bias-volume
gba/nds/sound/help: rev-engineered Max Output Levels (psg/pcmfifo/bias/clip)
nds/sound: emulates capture (routing, adding, mixing, rounding, clipping, etc)
nds/sound: emulates sound loop+length and high accuracy frequency timings
nds/gba-slot/bugfix: memadr_sram (instead nnn=0Eh) (thanks Chow Kim Foong)
nds/sound/help: corrected sample frequency, explained length/loop registers
nds/sound: emulates channel volume, channel volume shift, master volume, bias
nds/sound: emulates pcm8, pcm16, adpcm, psg wave/duty, psg noise formats
nds/sound: emulates all write-only sound ports as such (reads as 00000000h)
nds/sound/no$fmw/emu: initializes bias=200h (as done by original firmware)
nds/sound: nds_sb_generate_sample invoked by NDS7 (not NDS9) as sound master
nds/bugfix: fixed arm9 halfmul opcodes (accidently exchanged opcode lsbs/msbs)
debug/disass: fixed smulxy opcode (showed up as "smmuxy" instead of "smulxy")
nds/sound/help: described SOUNDCNT bits 8-11 (final audio output selection) Download and Give Feedback Via Comments
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November 4th, 2006, 23:26 Posted By: wraggster
Heres an excerpt:
For fans of Japanese publisher Square Enix, the Nintendo DS has turned into a gaming haven for this holiday season. Starting with Rocket Slime just a month back, and continuing with the delightful hack-n-slash adventure Children of Mana just days ago, the company is looking to ensure that any gamer looking for a role-playing or adventure experience is right at home on the Nintendo DS. Of course as we all know, Rocket Slime and Children of Mana - though they are superb titles - are just the warm-up for the RPG adventure everyone's been waiting for this year: Final Fantasy III. We've had a chance to play through (and beyond) the opening hours of the game, and are happy to bring our full impressions of just how strong this blend of old and new is turning out on DS.
As with any conversation about the Final Fantasy universe, we first have to make sure everyone on the same page. Is FFIII the American FFIII, which is actually FFVI? Is it FFIII from Japan, or did we screw up and put III when it's really II, which is Japan IV? Confusing, huh? Final Fantasy III for Nintendo DS is a re-make of sorts from the Japanese III, a game that hasn't seen the light of day in America yet, and is now making a new debut for DS gamers in its current form. The game mixes traditional gameplay and the same overarching story as it did in Japan, now complete with superb 3D visuals and added side-quests for the hardcore crowd. What you'll find in FFIII for DS is a total mix of old and new, and though the game may look mainstream and familiar - at least as far as Final Fantasy games go - this game can be very difficult, and doesn't play by the rules that most gamers have adopted over the last few years.
Full Article
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November 4th, 2006, 23:27 Posted By: wraggster
My two favorite games from Nintendo World weren't on the Wii! That's right, the DS took the honors with two absolute charmers, Kaitou Wario and Chibi Robo.
I first sampled Wario's latest DS outing, his first side-scroller for the system. Kaitou Wario puts you in control of Mario's rival as you solve puzzles and collect treasure chests.
This isn't strictly a platformer. You move Wario left and right and make him jump and duck all with the D-pad. Lefties can opt to use the A, B, X and Y buttons for this functionality. Everything else is done with the stylus. You open treasure chests by tapping on-screen icons. You attack enemies and perform special skills by pointing at your intended target.
To get through a stage, you have to make use of Wario's transformation abilities. The demo included, in addition to the standard Thief Wario, Space Wario, Graffiti Wario and Dinosaur Wario. You change into these new forms by drawing a shape around your character. Dinosaur Wario is a caret, Thief Wario is a check, Space Wario is a circle, and so-forth.
All Warios have different abilities. Thief Wario moves and jumps faster than the other Warios and he attacks by directly charging at enemies. Space Wario shoots lasers and has floaty jumps. Graffiti Wario can draw doors and crates, with the player being responsible for actually drawing the shape in the desired location. Dinosaur Wario breathes fire.
Progressing through the demo stage required full use of the various Warios. Space Wario's lasers were used to blast platforms down from the ceiling and to take out pesky birds who didn't appear to be too fond of Wario. Graffiti Wario's drawing abilities were used to create new platforms in order to leap over tall obstacles.
On top of the side-scrolling segments, Kaito Wario includes mini games, which you must clear in order to get the contents of treasure boxes. I was able to find just two in the demo, a simple picture puzzle game and a more action-oriented game where you tap with the stylus in order to exterminate incoming cockroaches.
The Nintendo World demo left me wanting to get cozy with the clever stages Nintendo will undoubtedly come up with for the final version. The wait will be long, sadly, as Kaitou Wario isn't expected to hit Japan until February of 2007.
Via IGN
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November 4th, 2006, 23:28 Posted By: wraggster
One of the most charming GameCube titles is set to make a revival on the DS. Nintendo World was home to a playable demo of Chibi-Robo Park Patrol for the DS.
The demo starts off with Chibi in his little house. The house is set up basically the same as in the GameCube version, with an outlet for recharging the tiny robot's batteries and a depository for the "happies" that you collect by making other living creatures happy.
This time around, or in the Nintendo World demo at least, Chibi's house is in a park rather than in a house. My first job, according to the Nintendo rep who was guiding me (in English... what is it with Nintendo's Japanese reps and their English proficiency?) was to go around making the flowers in the area happy. This was simple enough. To make the flowers happy, you have to first water them using a water pump. You then have to play some music for them using Chibi's radio. The flowers dance along with Chibi for a few seconds, then release the cherished happies.
The stylus changes the feel of the game somewhat. While you control Chibi directly with the D-pad, you use the stylus to select items via icons on the left side of the bottom screen, and interact with the items in various ways. To pump water, you slide the pump up and down. To play music, you spin a turntable. The flowers react differently depending on the speed of the resulting music, so it's important that you not play the music too quickly.
After recharging Chibi, I decided to explore a bit further. The park has, in the distance, a road with moving traffic, and, further away, a gas station. I was able to get to the road, and it looked like I could cross to the gas station, although I was worried that being hit by a car would lead to Chibi's death and a return to the back of the line for me. Instead of crossing, I doubled back and crossed a river into a forest. Crossing a river isn't the best idea for Chibi, who doesn't get along well with water, but I was able to make it across with plenty of energy left.
There, I came upon: vehicles! The demo had a bicycle and buggy, both featuring completely unique control schemes. The bicycle is steered with left and right on the D-pad. You pedal by rotating an on-screen pedal with the stylus, and can change speed accordingly.
The buggy has the opposite control scheme. In order to use the buggy, you have to first plug Chibi into its outlet. Chibi's energy then drains as you move. To accelerate and break, you press up and down. The L button gives you a speedy boost. Steering is done via the stylus, by rotating a steering wheel.
Controlling the vehicles is just as fun as controlling Chibi himself. Chibi Robo also looks great on the DS, even with full 3D visuals. All this will hopefully lead to an adventure to rival the GameCube original.
Via IGN
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November 5th, 2006, 10:17 Posted By: wraggster
A Wal-Mart employee sent Joystiq what they say is the Wal-Mart playbook for the Wii and PS3 launch. Saying they received the info from the "Wal-Mart Wire" and even printed out the information to send us proof. Sadly, the tipsters email address didn't work when we went to double check the info; however, after NeoGaf's Wal-Mart ad find, we'll run with what we've got, but emphasize that it is still a rumor.
Wii:
Software and accessories are not street dated, stores can put those out upon receipt
Price is $249.24 (75 cents cheaper and matches NeoGaf poster price)
11/16, Wii product will arrive direct to Wal-Mart stores. Same day, the accessories for Wii will be set out
11/18, at 10PM, tickets will be passed out for midnight sales
Start selling Wii on 11/19 at 12:01AM
Our tipster said he had 50 Wii tickets, but the actual amount of units arriving is unknown.
PS3:
Software and accessories are not street dated, stores can put those out upon receipt
11/9, PS3 peripherals will start shipping to stores
11/11, PS3 interactives (kiosks) will be in final install stages at stores
11/14, PS3 software will start to ship
11/16, PS3 arrives in stores
At 10PM or earlier on 11/18 [sic] (we are guessing he meant to write 11/16) employees will pass out tickets for midnight sales. There are 50 tickets for PS3, but actual units arriving is unknown.
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November 5th, 2006, 11:51 Posted By: jojotjuh
Supercard has updated their software to 2.57 and firmware to 1.7!
changes:
Firmware v1.7:
# Game list changed, the newest game will be displayed at the first position.
# The main menu of CF, SD, Mini SD, Micro SD versions have been changed as SuperCard Rumble series.
Software V2.57:
# The I/O system of NDS games has been redesigned, it's fast than before, increase the NDS games compatibility.
# Added NEW DMA(fast reading option), increase the speed of reading flash memory card, increase the NDS games compatibility.
# Fixed the Rumble Series can not run IQUE games, Fix NDS games 0472, 0286 balck screen bug.
# NDS game 0252 need high speed flash memory card, so SD, MiniSD version sometimes will halt in the game, but CF, MicroSD, Rumble Series seldem halt in this game.
Important: To who download the v2.57 and V1.7 yesterday
We updated the v2.57 and Firmware V1.7 yesterday, but there are some bugs,
# GBA can not list the files, or NDS can not list the files at GBA mode.
# The save file is not compatible with old save file.
If you are the user update the v2.57 & V1.7 yesterday, please download it again, we fix the two bugs today. If you are a GBA user, and there is no file in the list when update, please delete the "scfont.fon" at the root of flash memory card.
software:
setupnew is for CF
setupmicrosd is fro supercard lite
setuprumble is for the rumble carts
setupsd is for the SD cart
edit: i just installed it and the firmware has anice new skind too 
its very cool!!!
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November 5th, 2006, 23:23 Posted By: wraggster
News from DS-X
Finally !! .. Yes we do appreciate the anxiousness and anticipation of all our users. Rightfully this release was due in a few days from now. However due to considerable pressure from many of our respected customers we thought it only fair to whip up a beta updater tool, so at the very least those with access to a win32 machine could update their devices. We do read our forums and support, and we do monitor closely all that is said, hence our reaction today. Please understand that we would have much preferred to release only one fully implemented update tool that is cross platform and complete. The update tool released today is a temporary solution and will be substituted in the coming days with our final version which will be cross platform.
DS-Xtreme V1.0.2 change log
+Support for "Direct" format textures in UI engine
+Recognition of id3v2 tags in mp3/ogg
+Now supports supercard save files
+Added a "getOSVersion" function, for use in the skin to report the true OS version.
*Corrected virtual eeprom bank mapping
*Fixed a problem with some MP3s crashing
*MBR and partition parsing now correctly handled, should fix some filesystem issues, especially for OSX users
*Some minor changes to libfat auto-integration, should fix problems with ndsmail, etc
-OS now powers off LCDs when suspended
-Minor optimizations in raw device access
Legend:
+Addition
*Bugfix
-Change
Download DS-Xtreme Beta Update Tool for Windows & Download Skin for v1.0.2 . (just drag the skin folder to your DS-Xtreme after the update) Via the Comments
Buy DS-Xtreme at Divineo China / UK / USA
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November 6th, 2006, 02:33 Posted By: wraggster
Via Palib
Talstus released his first DS homebrew. It's a simple clone of the Mario Bomb game, which I'm pretty sure every has already played tons of times... You have to put each bomb on the corresponding color zone... If not, you loose 1 life...
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November 6th, 2006, 16:59 Posted By: wraggster
The eighth instalment of the Mario Party series will be coming to Wii next year, with a whole list of multiplayer mini games that take full advantage of the Wii's motion-sensitive powers.
Unveiled at the Nintendo World 2006 tour, a playable demo of the game revealed many of the games characters (Mario, Luigi, Peach, Yoshi, Wario, Daisy, Waluigi, Toad, Boo, Toadette, Birdo and Dry Bones), as well as some of the new mini games.
With the Wii being designed for multiplayer gaming, it should be the perfect platform for the party series, and might even give it the refresher it needs. Hell, we might even play it.
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November 6th, 2006, 17:04 Posted By: wraggster
Even though Rayman Raving Rabbids is hitting just about every console known to man this Christmas, it's good to see some wavy Wii-specific gameplay to separate it from the usual suspects.
These 10 new screens give some indication of how the Wii version will differ from its brethren thanks to Wii-mote support. From the motion-sensitive slapping of innocent-looking bunnies to drawing the outlines of various dishes for a greedy rabbit to devour, it's clear Ubisoft is keen to take full advantage of the potential of Nintendo's new controller.
Screens Via Comments
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November 6th, 2006, 17:17 Posted By: wraggster
THQ CEO Brian Farrell has predicted healthy sales for the Nintendo Wii, confirming plans to release additional games for the console next year.
Speaking in a conference call following the release of THQ's Q2 results, Farrell said the Wii is likely "to reach a multi-million installed base quickly", adding that the company plans to " launch an increased number of Wii skus in fiscal 2008".
Other executives speaking during the call said there is "a great opportunity" to produce titles exclusively for Wii - saying "it's just a matter of economics" when it comes to considering the value of doing so.
THQ was more cautious when the conversation turned to Sony's new console, with Farrell stating, "We've chosen to release our titles on PS3 as its installed base grows in calendar 2007."
Executives also observed that "the download opportunities don't really kick in until the second half of 2007" and that "Sony is continuing to refine their online and download models". One exec predicted that download revenues won't offer a "meaningful opportunity" until "mid next year".
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November 6th, 2006, 19:25 Posted By: wraggster
Despite the desperate pleas from RPG lovers in the west, it would seem the highly regarded, Japan-only Mother 3 is not likely to ever be released outside of Japan, after a statement made by a member of Nintendo of America's Treehouse localisation team.
Mother 3, the third game in the Mother series is a hugely popular RPG in Japan, developed by HAL Laboratories for the GBA, and released in April this year. Fans of the previous game on the Super NES, Mother 2 (released in the US as Earthbound) had hoped to see a western release of the portable sequel.
But comments from an NOA localisation manager, Nate Bihldorf, in a recent interview with Planet GameCube, makes a western release seem unlikely. "I'm not working on Mother 3. I don't have all the writers under me, so there may be other people in discussions going on with it, but I wouldn't look forward to it in the immediate future" says Bihldorf.
So it might still happen, but not any time soon it seems. And being as the GBA is slowly giving way to the might of the DS, the more time passes the bleaker the possibility, we reckon.
We also suspect that Bihldorf's efforts to console heartbroken gamers by suggesting they get their "Ness fix" by playing Smash Bros. will not go down too well.
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November 6th, 2006, 19:40 Posted By: wraggster
GamePro is reporting that George Harrison, Senior VP at Nintendo, says they're looking forward to offering "downloadable content, such as additional levels" with Zelda: Twilight Princess.
However, there are no current plans to offer a "post-release online component" and it doesn't look like there is anything in the works. According to Harrison, "I haven't heard of anything yet. I think everyone is still busy trying to make sure the game gets out correctly."
Now, all we can hope is that Zelda doesn't become the Wii's Oblivion ... or [fill in EA game here] with dubious downloadable content.
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November 6th, 2006, 19:45 Posted By: wraggster
New Commercial DS Game released:
Price: US$ 39.90 (~21.19 GBP)
features
US version of the Japanese hot "Ouendan"
Contains new songs
As the music plays, players tap the screen, trace rhythmic patterns and keep the beat as the story unfolds on the top screen.
Every scene is accompanied by rump-shaking tunes, but players have to keep the Elite Beat Agents grooving. The worse players do, the worse the story might end up.
Rhythm games have come and gone, but no one has ever seen anything like the Elite Beat Agents. Whether they’re helping a lost dog find its way home or helping a babysitter charm a hunky football player, no crisis is too weird.
description
In a jam? Well, all these guys DO is jam! Prepare to rock as these beat masters use their groovy moves to save the day.
The public knows of government agencies like the FBI and CIA, but little is known of this super-secret agency. Code-named “Elite Beat Agents,” these men in black are heroes’ heroes and the coolest group of guys this world has ever known. Of course, according to official records, they do not exist.
Their leader, an ex-CIA agent named Commander Kahn, scans the world for cries of help. When he finds one, he dispatches the agents, who assist their targets by performing a song and dance. The hypnotic nature of their rocking revives the targets with “Groovy” energy that boosts their willpower and helps them overcome their obstacles.
Every stage is presented in a storyline fashion. All stages share similar basic elements and game flow: The player gets introduced to the target’s problem in a comical intro. Commander Kahn dispatches the agents to the scene. The agents arrive in a special “Beat Transport” that is tailor-made for the situation. The song starts as the agents and player meet the target. By tapping and tracing patterns that appear on-screen, players play along with the song’s rhythm. The animated story changes depending on how well the player performs. After each section, the player gets judged. Depending on the Elite-o-meter’s judgment, the story will go well or poorly. If the player makes it though the whole song, he or she will be judged on the whole thing and get one of three endings.
More Info / Buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1iwn.html
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November 6th, 2006, 20:42 Posted By: wraggster
Paco_777 has released a new version of Comic Book DS, heres whats new:
Comic Book DS is a program making it possible to read your Comic Books on your Nintendo DS.
It can be also used as a photo viewer.
1.3 (05/11/2006):
New DS: Progressive zoom feature. Image can be zoomed in and out using some buttons or the on-screen scrollbar.
New DS: A lock icon is added. When locked, the icons remains on the screen.
New DS: Closelit support. When the DS is closed, screens are switched off and energy is saved.
New DS: Smoother animation for transitions.
New DS: Key configuration changed, mainly for left handed landscape mode. Two buttons are also dedicated to the zoom feature (they were previously used for page change).
BugFix PC: The pictods icon is back.
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November 6th, 2006, 20:43 Posted By: wraggster
JimmyL posted this news/release:
Here's an update to the game, I still haven't tested with more than two players, but I did add scribble chat, a crossword style game and a game selection screen. .
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November 6th, 2006, 21:17 Posted By: Dee-Lite
In the new UK Christmas "Ultimate Gift Guide" catalogue Argos states on page 179
"Nintendo Wii Launching Late November 2006"
Seems they haven't got a clue eh?
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November 6th, 2006, 21:39 Posted By: Dee-Lite
Today I recieved a pack from GAME, on the front it says
"Important Information inside! Wii"
So what could it be?
On page one it says...
"Hooray your preorder was successful!!
You will get your hands on a Nintendo Wii at Launch!*
*please remember you MUST bring your preorder receipt into store on launch day as proof of deposit."
It then states...
"Exclusively for you
Make sure you come into store on 10th November to pick up your Wii preorder pack which is loaded with the latest info on the amazing Wii console and all the incredible new games you'll soon be playing."
Finally on Page 3 it states...
"Introducing
your exclusive Wii gift card
Start using this card NOW to save up for your Wii & games
Put a small amount on the card regularly to spread to cost of your Wii
Trade in your old games and put their value on the gift card"
Interesting. I wonder what's in the Wii preorder pack??
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November 6th, 2006, 21:45 Posted By: wraggster
The Hive has released a new Public Beta Version of his Spectrum emulator for the Nintendo DS, heres the interesting part he has posted a puzzle for you to solve to get the password to the Zipfile.
Heres his puzzle:
The screenshots below represent a smattering of Speccy nostalgia from my youth. Infact, they are probably all jointly responsible for the ultimate demise of my Speccys membrane keyboard, and certainly a few occasions of bloodshot eyes.
But, do any of you lot remember them? And more importantly, can you identify them from the screenies?
The first character from each game will form a 15 character password that you will NEED to UNRAR DSpec 0.2a (when it's released later this evening).
But please, once you know the password don't post it here Should be easy for most, but we'll see.
BTW - the password is not a word or sentence - it's meaningless, so you won't be able to fill in the blanks if you only know some of the games. Mwah ha ha ha ha haaa
-HiVE
Awesome fun for Spectrum fans and a new emulator to try for those who can solve it
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November 6th, 2006, 21:54 Posted By: wraggster
Noddybox has released a new Sinclair ZX81 for the Nintendo DS, heres the release information from the site:
If you'd have told me 25 years ago that I'd be playing 3D Monster Maze on the bus on a device powered by batteries, I'd have said you were mad...
DS81 is a basic emulation of the Sinclair ZX81. It currently doesn't support loading of external files, but includes a few games to try out. Note that I did not write these games, or own the copyright to them. They are included in good faith (as far as I know the authors do not mind this work being distributed), and if any of them want their work removing I'll gladly oblige:
ZX81 ROM © 1981 Nine Tiles Networks Ltd
City Patrol © 1982 Don Priestley
Sabotage © 1982 Don Priestley
3D Monster Maze © 1983 Malcom E. Evans
When you run DS81, following a splash screen, you'll be presented with a ZX81 display on the top screen and a soft keyboard on which you can type. If you click on the bottom part of the touch screen you'll be presented with a menu where you can choose a tape, reset the ZX81 and set the sticky state of the shift key on or off.
Once you have selected a tape, simply type LOAD "" on the ZX81 to load it! All the included games map the joypad and buttons to sensible settings for each specific game.
Heres whats new in this release:
DS81, the ZX81 emulator the Nintendo DS has been updated so that it supports the loading of external files on some devices.
Fantastic News for the Old retro fans
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November 6th, 2006, 23:08 Posted By: wraggster
In the aftermath of the Lik Sang Closing scandal and now Play Asia also stopping PS3 Preorders/selling to Europe there must be hundreds of us who had preorders cancelled.
I had my Wii preorder cancelled and im now unsure if i should get a US or UK Wii.
Have any of you preordered with anyone else since the cancellation ?
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November 7th, 2006, 18:56 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo exec David Yarnton has dismissed suggestions that the company took a risk with the DS, observing that the company has taken a 75 per cent share of the UK's handheld market in the past two weeks.
"One of the things people are saying is that it's a bit risky, the things that we've done. A bit risky when we launched Nintendo DS as a handheld console, where it's got voice recognition and touch screen, two screens, all these things. Well, it wasn't a risk; if we did nothing, that was the risk," Yarnton said.
"We had the market to ourselves, and then when another company came along and decided they wanted to get into our swimming pool, a lot of people thought hey, that's going to be a real problem," he went on.
"For 2004 in handheld sales, which included our Game Boy and Nintendo DS, we had sales of about a million units. We then looked for 2005 as our opposition were coming in at increasing our business by 50 per cent."
According to Yarnton, "A lot of people said, you know, that's crazy because the market's just not big enough - there's someone else coming in."
But, he said, Nintendo did achieve that 50 per cent - and, "Looking at this year, we'll get another 30 per cent increase of Nintendo DS. In fact, at the moment we're running ahead of that schedule."
Yarnton observed that 1.7 million DS units have now been sold in the UK, adding that week by week, Game Boy and DS sales give Nintendo a 75 per cent share of the handheld market. By the end of 2006, the company expects to have sold around 2.7 million DS units.
His comments came at an event held in London last night to promote GAME's operations in Spain. The retailer doubled the size of its Spanish business last year, adding around 50 new stores, and plans to add a similar number again over the coming year.
Via Gamesindustry
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November 7th, 2006, 18:57 Posted By: wraggster
Buena Vista Games has made a bold statement of support for Nintendo's hardware, opening a new studio dedicated to projects for the Wii and DS systems.
Based in Salt Lake City, the small team will focus on developing games based on Disney characters and franchises, as well as creating new IP.
"This studio will be one of our centres of creative excellence and it gives us the ability to fully capitalise on our properties and expand our market share on Nintendo platforms," said Graham Hopper, general manager of BVG.
Ex-Rainbow Studios boss Scott Novis will take on the role of vice president of Fall Line Studio.
He commented: "BVG has an excellent management team, a can-do corporate culture and a treasure trove of great intellectual properties that make it exciting for us to start something new."
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November 7th, 2006, 18:59 Posted By: wraggster
Buena Vista Games has formed Fall Line Studio, a new development studio based in Salt Lake City which is to concentrate on creating games for Nintendo platforms.
No specific games have been mentioned in connection with the studio as yet, but it has been said that Fall Line's focus "is to develop games based on Disney's characters, television shows and entertainment franchises as well as creating new intellectual property for the Nintendo DS and Wii game systems."
Fall Line Studio will operate as a sister studio to Buena Vista Games' Avalanche Software studio.
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November 7th, 2006, 19:07 Posted By: wraggster
EA's movie tie-in Superman Returns is nearly upon as after being delayed for a bit of extra tweaking. Versions of the game are out on GBA, DS, Xbox, Xbox 360 and PS2, the Xbox 360 and DS versions leading the charge on November 24 and the rest following in December.
Screenshots Here
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November 7th, 2006, 19:10 Posted By: wraggster
Article from CVG
Wii Play is a family-orientated multiplayer game package, in a similar vein to Wii Sports, comprising of nine different games that hope to have you, your little sister and your good old gran flailing your arms around like nutters when the Wii is released.
It's not much to look at - like Wii Sports it uses a basic graphical style, with the user-created Mii characters and simple environments. And this simplicity is in accordance with the games pick-up-and-play gameplay which, on the most part, is as instinctive as breathing.
But that's not to say that some games don't have layers of depth and challenge that will keep more seasoned gamers busy, trying to set high scores or crack every challenge and earn every gold medal.
We were lucky enough to play a near-final version of the game and gave each of the nine games a fair bashing in single- and multiplayer modes. So here's a run through each game and exactly how you play them.
Shooting Range
This is the duck-hunt style shooting game that was originally shown as a tech demo at the first playable showing of the Wii. The premise of the game couldn't be simpler - using the Wii Remote almost like a gun, you shoot targets that appear on screen to earn points.
The targets start off easy, with slow-moving balloons floating up the screen. Then you move on to circle targets that appear and disappear quickly, before having to shoot clay discs out of the sky. Then you'll have six Mii characters at the bottom of the screen and you have to shoot down UFO ships before they kidnap your little people.
That's when the action gets really hectic but you've got infinite ammo and there's no need to reload so you can go berserk with the trigger without a worry. It's great in two-player, as you both scramble to shoot the most targets within the time limit.
Find Mii
This is a Where's Wally style game that throws a bunch of Miis on the screen and tasks you with a search and find mission, using the Wii Remote as a pointer.
The game might ask you to find one or more identical Miis within the crowd, or it might ask you to find the Mii which you have created on your Wii console. It gets even more brain-busting when the asks you which Mii from a select group is your favourite. Then a few rounds later it will ask you to identify your chosen favourite in a group of dozens of Miis, which tests your memory as well as you observation skills.
Table Tennis
One of the simplest games in the package, Table Tennis simply has you moving your Wii Remote left or right to hit the ball back to your opponent.
You don't have to press a button to hit the ball - the game strikes for you - but you can put direction on the ball by moving the bat left or right as you strike the ball.
In single-player, your only task is to rack up a 100-hit rally with the computer, who will lose the game on your 100th strike of the ball. That gets you a medal. This game is really about multiplayer, where two players go head-to head with fast rallies.
Pose Mii
This is a tricky but addictive game that has you moving your floating Mii around the screen with the Remote, positioning him in bubbles to make the bubbles disappear before they reach the bottom of the screen.
The catch is that the bubbles have little drawings in them that show what pose your Mii must be in to make it disappear. So as well as moving your Mii around the screen, you also have to press the A or B button to get your Mii into the right pose, and twist your Remote to rotate your Mii into the right position to fit the sketch on the bubble. It's super tough, but hugely addictive.
Laser Hockey
Laser Hockey is straightforward - it's virtual air hockey where you use the Wii Remote's pointer to control your paddle, and hit the puck into the goal on the opposite side. There really is nothing else to it, but again, this is best played in two player.
Billiards
Absolute genius. Billiards uses the Wii Remote to fantastically replicate the cue. First you line up your shot by aiming your on-screen cursor off the white ball, holding Z and moving the Remote left and right.
Once you're satisfied with the angels (all done via a first-person view), you point at where on the white ball you want to hit, hold Z to lock your shot in place, then draw the remote back and thrust it forward to take the shot.
There's no power bars needed because the controller reads the speed at which you pushed it forward with the utmost accuracy, and the game replicates that on screen to satisfying effect. It's a shame there's no snooker and pool options, but this is surely a taste of what future pool games will be capable of on Wii.
Fishing
This simple game - which interestingly looks like it was made of paper - sets you the seemingly simple task of hooking fish out of a small pond.
Tracking your every move, the Wii Remote acts as your rod as you dip your hook into the water and wait for the fish to take a bite (which is indicated by the rumble force in the Remote) before yanking your rod backwards to catch a fish.
But stick it in two-player mode and a game of patience becomes a game of razor-sharp reactions as you race to catch the most fish.
Charge
Your little Wii rides on a cow, which you steer by tilting the Wii Remote left and right like a steering wheel (Excite Truck-style). Your aim is to bash into scarecrows and other enemies on the course, while jumping over hurdles by flicking the Remote upwards.
This relatively basic game comes to life in split-screen multiplayer, where you another player barge each other around the course as you scramble to hit the targets.
Tanks
Our favourite game of them all. It's top-down, single-screen battle game reminiscent of the tank battles in Combat on the Atari 2600, for those of you old enough to remember that.
You control your little tank by pushing the analogue stick on the Nunchuk in any direction, while aiming your cannon with the Wii Remote's pointer. Shoot cannons with the B trigger or drop a proximity mine that explodes when approached.
You get points for taking out computer-controlled tanks which pack various weapons, from slow and easy-to-avoid cannons to fast and devastating rocket launchers. In two-player, it's a race to destroy the most tanks in each level. Fantastic fun.
Wii Play is, despite its simplicity, bound to be hours of fun in multiplayer and for £40, it comes packed with a Wii Remote (worth £30). So it's only £10! Bargain.
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November 7th, 2006, 19:29 Posted By: wraggster
Zi Corp has announced that it has licensed its predictive text input technology (eZiText) to Nintendo for Wii.
The agreement expands upon a similar agreement in October 2005, which enlisted similar technology to utilise on the Nintendo DS, and will probably make sending SMS messages via the Wii as easy as a mobile phone.
"Nintendo is a worldwide leader in video game systems and has a reputation for bringing innovative technology to the market," said Milos Djokovic, President and CEO, Zi Corporation.
"By embedding eZiText in Wii, Nintendo is empowering its customer with a more user friendly method for text input."
"This announcement heralds the future use of eZiText outside of conventional mobile usage," continued Djokovic.
"The global gaming industry has become a worldwide phenomenon and is becoming an important new avenue for the distribution of our products. As such, we will continue to progressively pursue new gaming customers."
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November 7th, 2006, 21:06 Posted By: wraggster
New DS game released at SuccessHK
In Tom and Jerry Tales, Tom has gone mouse-catching crazy! With the family out for the day, he has stolen Jerry's special cheese stash and set traps all over the house to finally catch Jerry. Help poor Jerry run through mouse holes, destroying the house through encounters with Tom and recovering all of his precious cheese along the way. Avoid sneaky traps, zoom through obstacles and create endless confusion to wreak havoc on the house -- and get Tom kicked out of the house, once and for all!
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November 7th, 2006, 21:09 Posted By: wraggster
New DS game released at SuccessHK
Touch Detective is a unique mystery adventure as you become a private eye in a strange new world. When Mackenzie's father unexpectedly passed away, she inherits the family business: a renowned detective agency. In a world world populated by mechanized butlers and walking skeletons, mysteries are very different. With the aid of cheerful mushroom-man Funghi and robotic servant Cromwell, Mackenzie sets off to prove herself worthy of being called... the Touch Detective!
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November 7th, 2006, 21:23 Posted By: wraggster
Lick has released a new app that scans for Wifi in time it will become a fully fledged app to setup your Wifi on the DS.
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November 7th, 2006, 21:26 Posted By: wraggster
News from the official site:
I have to come back and talk about the floating elements; fortunately, this time it's to say that they're practically done, and that I'm moving on to other aspects of the program. I've prepared the user interface, both graphically and codewise; remember that I had already started the integration of libsmgl (an html library) with the document engine, etc.
There's been a lot of talk about the possibility of using the built-in memory available on some cards. For now I'm going to try to avoid using it. It's possible that it gets to a point where I may consider it conveniant, but I'd rather keep it accessible, even if it was more limited (not loading images, making them 2 colors, or any other valid option).
More info --> http://okiwi.blogspot.com/
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November 7th, 2006, 21:28 Posted By: wraggster
ttursas has again updated his homebrew game for the DS, heres whats new:
* Removed TCP code from dswifilib, and changed the two framehdr[] arrays that were
allocated from stack to be larger and allocated from heap apparently fixing the network
play as it works again. Also rewrote memcpy() and strncpy() so that no libg is needed
for them by dswifilib.
* Bullets don't collide with planes that are exploding.
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November 7th, 2006, 21:59 Posted By: wraggster
Christophe Andreani has released new Maps for his excellent Map for DS App for the Nintendo DS, heres some info:
AMAP4DS (A map for DS) is a simple, easy to use and fast map viewer. It is first designed for metro and bus maps. It is not distributed alone but always with a specific map. You can find free several maps downloads below. Due to DS technical limitations it is not possible, for now, to load your own maps into AMAP4DS. If you need a map you can't find here, please, send me an email: christophe@andreani.net , I may add it in a near future :-)
Hello,
Here are some new map releases for AMAP4DS v3.0:
- AMAP4DS-Berlin-SU-Bahn
- AMAP4DS-Berlin-Tram
- AMAP4DS-Paris-Bus
- AMAP4DS-Paris-Streets
- AMAP4DS-Roma-Metro
The "AMAP4DS-Paris-Streets" map is very large, so it has been cut in 4 quarters: North-West, North-East, South-East and South-West. It's not a perfect system (because you need to reboot your DS to go from a quarter to another) but I hope it can help some people who are looking for the streets around a metro station for instance...
Christ
Homepage to download: http://www.andreani.net/ds/
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November 8th, 2006, 00:03 Posted By: Dee-Lite
Ok so a follow on from my Wii letter thread.
By now most of you should have the Wii Limited Edition Card through the post.
Put money on the card to save towards your Wii's
But whats the point when you can just lift the money from your bank on the day?
Well today I went and took this card and put £200 on it
He put the money on the Wii card. Then he asked me for my GAME Reward card. He then put £200 worth of points on my reward card
Here's how the points system works:
£10 = 100 points
so
£100 = 1000 points
1000 points = £2.50 GAME credit
So the guy put 2000 points on my reward card giving me £5 instantly!
Nice huh? But it doesn't end there, because GAME are giving double points on Wii release day. It means you get double points for everythin you spend along with the console on the day
so I am planning on spending £300 roughly
lets look at the total money back I will get although GAME have still not advertised bundles yet, so I don't know what I will get for my money
So
£300 = 3000 points = £7.50
multiplied by 2 =
6000 points = £15
plus initial £5 for putting £200 on Wii Limited Edition Card
Total money back for £300 spend = £20
Good for a Wii points card, a carry bag or even a nunchuck attachment!
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November 8th, 2006, 01:39 Posted By: wraggster
How badly do US gamers want a Wii? GameStop is thinking "very." Last night, the retailer and its subsidiary EB Games sent out a mass e-mail saying that, starting late on Thursday, gamers will be able to order the Wii from the two companies' online stores, GameStop.com and EBgames.com, in the form of an expensive bundle.
"This Thursday evening (CST), November 9, your opportunity to get in on the excitement arrives when the Wii Bundle becomes available for purchase online at GameStop.com," read the e-mail. "You'll get the best games, accessories, and more in one convenient package delivered right to your door--all for under $699 plus tax and handling." (Emphasis added.)
By itself, the Wii costs only $250 and comes with the Wiimote and Nunchuk controller, power and AV cords, sensor bar, stands, and Wii Sports. Given the GameStop Wii bundle's steep price, one would wonder what assortment of add-ons and games are worth around an extra $449. Apparently, the customer-service reps at GameStop are also wondering. "We don't know what the bundle contains," a rep told GameSpot. "We also don't know when they go on sale. We won't know until Thursday."
Catch number two is that there will only be a single Wii bundle to (not) choose from, unlike the Xbox 360 bundle assortment GameStop offered last year. "I can confirm there is only one bundle with the same games and accessories," said the same rep. "And no, we don't know what they are either."
Last but not least are a series of caveats all too familiar to console-launch veterans. "Quantities are extremely limited and there will be a limit of 1 Wii bundle per household, limited to US delivery only," read GameStop's e-mail. "Ordering a bundle does not guarantee shipment at launch and orders will be shipped on a first-come, first-serve basis. The bundle will be removed from the site as soon as we have reached our expected quota." The Wii launches in the US on November 19.
Gamers put off by the bundle's high price will only have one next-gen alternative on GameStop.com--the Xbox 360. "There are currently no [set] plans for a new PlayStation 3 pre-order program," the GameStop rep said. [UPDATE] A recording on the GameStop help line said that there was simply "no new information" available, implying the PS3 preorder plans were not currently available to the public. The company had offered a very limited number of unbundled PS3 and Wii preorders on a first-come-first-served basis at its retail outlets on the morning of October 10, all of which sold out within minutes. Confirmed preorders of Sony's console, which launches in the US on November 17, are currently fetching upwards of $1,500 on eBay.
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November 8th, 2006, 01:48 Posted By: wraggster
Via BBC
The eagerly anticipated Nintendo Wii will be launched on 19 November in the US and we want you to be part of the BBC News website's launch coverage.
With its unorthodox controller and innovative launch titles the console promises entertainment for gamers and non-gamers alike.
It is also cheaper than both Microsoft's Xbox 360 and the long awaited Sony PlayStation 3.
But the Nintendo system does not pack the same raw processing power as either of these machines, nor does it offer high definition graphics.
So, is the Wii the console underdog? Is the controller just a novelty? Will the white box pack enough fun to win the hearts, minds and wallets of gamers?
We are looking for US gamers and non-gamers who will have a Wii on launch day to help us to answer these questions.
We are particularly interested in hearing from families who have perhaps never owned a console but have been tempted to splash out on a Wii.
As part of our launch coverage, we are asking readers to write a series of short pieces for the site about:
why you decided to buy a Nintendo Wii
how you feel as the launch-hour nears
and, once you've finally got hold of your console, whether playing it lives up to your expectations.
If you fit the criteria and want to be part of our coverage, send 150 words on why gaming is so important to you, and why you are excited about the Nintendo Wii launch.
Details to the link above
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November 8th, 2006, 01:49 Posted By: wraggster
The ESRB has approved and rated another pile of Nintendo's Virtual Console throwbacks, including:
Duck Hunt (E)
Hogan's Alley (E)
Kid Icarus (E)
Kirby's Adventure (E)
PilotWings (E)
Pro Wrestling (E)
Punch-Out (E)
Wild Gunman (E)
With Duck Hunt, Hogan's Alley, and Wild Gunman making appearances, the Zapper can't be far behind. Think the E3 prototype fits the bill?
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November 8th, 2006, 01:56 Posted By: wraggster
Somewhere in an unassuming side street in central London there is a house stacked full to the brim with Nintendo Wiis. The house has become known as The Wii House. SPOnG was offered a visit to the hidden location; this is our story…
Nintendo has fully kitted out this palace of pleasure in the style of a typical family home*, in order for members of Her Majesty’s Gaming Media to finally get their hands on review versions of Wii games in a relaxed, homely environment.
So SPOnG spent a good part of yesterday snooping around The Wii House with our trusty snapper, Stuart, in tow, who took the pictures you can see right here.
Full Article at Spong
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November 8th, 2006, 02:04 Posted By: wraggster
Via DSfanboy
When it comes to Nintendo's bounty hunters, it's all about the ladies. But the long-awaited, oft-delayed Scurge: Hive is no Metroid knockoff, despite similarites in heroines (and in weapons of choice). In Scurge: Hive, you take on the role of Jenosa Arma as she investigates a distress signal from a lab. Unfortunately for the intrepid Jenosa, the lab and everything around it is infected with the Scurge, a dangerous alien plague that spreads parasitically, infecting a host and taking it over. Before she can escape, she is infected and must go through a rigorous decontamination process while battling the alien menace and a wide array of monsters. But Jenosa is up to the task, difficult as it may sound. When you're a bounty huntress, that's just all in a day's work.
Overall, the game has seen solid reviews praising the pacing and story, but decrying the repetitive aspect of gameplay. No matter how interesting the story, in the end, it does come down to: kill enemies, get to sickbay. But then again, what game can't be boiled down to the sum of its parts?
Interestingly, the DS version has seen more negative criticism than the GBA -- the touch screen is barely used (it serves as a map screen) and the graphics seem to have suffered in the transition to the updated system (it was originally designed as a GBA title).
GameZone - 80%: One part action, one part RPG. One part Metroid, one part Zelda, one part reminiscent of the PSone era. Technically this is a GBA title, and unfortunately does not take advantage of everything the DS has to offer. But that doesn't prevent the game from blasting through. Scurge: Hive dives into the world of isometric action/RPGs, delivering an experience of intelligent puzzles, thrilling action, and monumental entertainment.
IGN - 70%: Scurge is one of the nicest looking games I've ever seen on the GBA. The Nintendo DS version however doesn't just suffer from having GBA graphics, but they actually seem to be worse. A lot of the neat mist effects, and the enemy animations are either gone or not near as polished as the GBA version. Don't get me wrong, Scurge is still a nice looking game on either handheld. Jenosa looks great, and is beautifully animated. Even her absurdly long ponytail looks great on either system. Scurge is a wonderful game to look at, but the DS version should have at least been on par with the GBA.
1UP - 70%: Even with these problems, though, Scurge: Hive is an entertaining adventure that boasts impressive production values, especially given its origins in a tiny development house. Its greatest failing is that it stands uneasily on the line between arcade-action and console-adventure. If you don't mind something that mashes two genres together without necessarily perfecting either, though, it's like having a lost chunk of 1993 in your pocket.
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November 8th, 2006, 02:07 Posted By: wraggster
Via IGN
If you found yourself disappointed when Level 5's first DS game had a professor's name attached to it, you weren't alone. The DS could use an epic with the scale of Dragon Quest VIII, Rogue Galaxy or the upcoming White Knight Story, after all, and who better to deliver it than the maker of those three titles.
We're not sure if it will end up being an adventure to rival those three, but Level 5's Professor Layton and the Mysterious Town looks like another quality DS title in its own right. We sampled an early build at the Nintendo World event in Nagoya this past weekend.
The focus of this game is on solving puzzles, so we'll start there. The game presents its puzzles in a straightforward way. The top screen usually lists a problem with text, with the bottom screen allowing you to solve the problem directly with the stylus. Here are a few examples that we saw at the event:
1. Given three flasks, measure out an exact amount of water ala Die Hard with a Vengeance.
2. Given a set of 10 coins in a triangle formation, flip the triangle over by moving just three coins.
3. Given a map with the letters A, B, C and D appearing twice each, connect A to A, B to B, C to C and D to D without any intersections between the lines.
We didn't have trouble solving the few puzzles that we sampled, although we did notice a few people chicken out and flee from the waiting line to play the game. If you do end up having trouble (and we presume there will be tougher problems in the full game), you can always ask for a hint, assuming you've built up enough hint points.
Different from the billion other puzzle and quiz based DS games, Layton has an adventure mode, with lots of text boxes and catchy character and background art. You move between the puzzles by selecting locations on a town map. In the demo version, the map indicated that we had 10 out of 11 puzzles remaining to be cleared.
There probably won't be any random battles or interstellar travel in Professor Layton, but intriguing puzzles and gorgeous art could make this another DS pick-up. We'll let you know how everything comes together when the game sees Japanese release next year. A US version has yet to be announced.
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November 8th, 2006, 20:56 Posted By: wraggster
Nanostray 2 is looking real slick, and we've got the first shots to prove it
We're big fans of scrolling shoot-'em-ups, and although Nanostray on DS wasn't perfect, it's hard-as-nails bullet-dodging action was good enough to keep up hooked for a while.
Now the sequel is nearly here, and developer Shin'en has released this first batch of screenshots to show off just how nice it's looking. The good news is it seems the dev's got rid of the touch-screen operated weapon selection, which didn't work so well in the first game.
And it's looking like a top shooter to us. Giant, grab boss of death? Check. Fat lasers and nice explosions? Check. Vertically and horizontally scrolling levels? Yup. It even seems to improve on the already impressive backdrops of the original too.
With "exciting" Wi-Fi internet functions promised, (including a World Ranking system that can be accessed through the official website), we're looking forward to seeing what Nanostray 2 has up it's sleeve.
The game is still without a publisher or release date, but more info is due in coming weeks.
Screens & news at CVG
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November 8th, 2006, 21:04 Posted By: wraggster
Eagle eyed web-spotters have noticed an update to the Entertainment Software Ratings Board website in America, perhaps unmasking the first post-release batch of Virtual Console titles for that territory.
Duck Hunt, Hogan's Alley, Kid Icarus, Kirby's Adventure, PilotWings, Pro Wrestling, Punch-Out and Wild Gunman all make the list of most recent Nintendo Wii ratings, but none has featured on the US Virtual Console line-up so far.
Nintendo has previously said it aims to release Virtual Console titles at the rate of about ten new additions each month, although it's come to light recently that its line-ups for individual regions will differ.
For example, the European line-up boasts SNES title Donkey Kong Country in addition to F-Zero and Sim City, whereas the US list does not, and the Japanese SNES line-up is altogether more expansive.
Virtual Console titles will need be purchased using Wii Points, for which you'll pay EUR 20 / GBP 14 for 2000. NES games will cost 500, SNES 800, N64 1000, Megadrive 800 and TurboGrafx-16 600 points.
Nintendo Wii launches in Europe on 8th December.
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November 8th, 2006, 21:10 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo has a lengthy tradition of playing its cards close to the vest, so it's not surprising that some of the company's fans may be expecting the console maker to have one last megaton bomb to drop on the gaming world in advance of the Wii launch. However, those holding their breath in anticipation of a world-rocking revelation surrounding the Wii can exhale, as Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime told GameSpot sister site News.com in a video interview that the publisher has nothing left to hide.
Fils-Aime told News.com that everything that would come packed with the Wii was finalized, and that the few areas that hadn't been detailed (the company's Virtual Console content, packaged software) weren't actually finalized yet.
When asked if Nintendo was planning any last-minute surprises, Fils-Aime said, "No, no wonderful secret announcement. At least not one that I'm aware of, so then it would really be a secret."
Fils-Aime also responded to the Wii's appearance last week on the animated show South Park. Despite the frequently controversial and adult tone of the show, Fils-Aime expressed no reservations about the traditionally family-friendly Nintendo brand being featured in an episode.
"Obviously we love it," Fils-Aime said. "It's not something that they approached us for permission, though we were aware that they were working on it. It's fantastic to be in popular culture in that way."
The conclusion to last week's Wii-centric South Park episode is expected to air tonight on Comedy Central.
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November 8th, 2006, 21:15 Posted By: gotmilk0112
via www.gamestop.com:
This Thursday evening (CST), November 9, your opportunity to get in on the excitement arrives when our online-only Wii Bundle pre-order becomes available. You'll get the best games, accessories and more in one convenient package delivered right to your door. Supplies extremely limited.
The Nintendo Wii bundle includes the following items:
Nintendo Wii Console (includes 1 remote controller, 1 nunchuck, cables, sensor bar, console stand, and Wii Sports game)
Wii Memory SD 1GB
Additional Wii Remote Controller
6 Games:
Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
Trauma Center: Second Opinion
Red Steel
Marvel Ultimate Alliance
Super Monkey Ball Banana Blitz
Madden NFL 2007
12 Month Product Replacement Plan
Game Informer Gift Subscription
$694.88 plus tax and handling
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November 8th, 2006, 21:22 Posted By: wraggster
Think after E3 Nintendo just sailed through the summer, chilling out, maxing and relaxing by the pool? No. Nintendo worked. And here's proof. Reader Matthew sent along this comparison for us to compare. Besides the obvious addition of people, notice how Nintendo ditched the company logo in favor of "WiiSports."
Screen Via Comments
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November 8th, 2006, 21:30 Posted By: wraggster
Popular Science awarded the Nintendo Wii as "Best of What's New" in the category of home entertainment edging out a Samsung Blu-ray player, a Logitech MP3 player, some speakers, an LCD display, and a color-calibration device to name a few. From the article:
"Remember when videogames were fun? When the controllers had only a couple buttons and you didn't have to spend an hour learning the seven-step finger dance for "walk?" Nintendo does, so it took a step back, looked at its superpowered competitors, and took a totally different path with its new console ... Photo-real or not, [Wii] games will draw you in."
Who needs mass advertising when publicity and word of mouth is this positive? But if Nintendo isn't mass advertising...
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November 8th, 2006, 22:02 Posted By: wraggster
New DS Game released:
Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam takes the old Tony Hawk formula and puts it into a downhill racing game, with very mixed results.
More info at SuccessHK
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November 8th, 2006, 22:32 Posted By: wraggster
Via thatkidrob
I recently went to the Sneaker Pimps convention down in Miami and i came across what seemed to me the most interesting shoe I've ever seen. This shoe is actually a NES Mattel Version molded into a shoe. I happened to speak to the maker of this shoe and he told me that it actually plays the games!!!! He said its the only known video game shoe ever made.
Screens Via Comments
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November 8th, 2006, 22:35 Posted By: wraggster
News from the DS-xtreme Website with news about their DS Flashcart.
We have been inundated with mails and calls from resellers and consumers enquiring about stock. Since the launch of the DS-Xtreme we have been overwhelmed by the response and subsequent demand for our product. We would like to assure all of you that we are producing around the clock to meet demand. In the next few days we expect to have all back orders cleared and ample stock to cover future orders. Thank you for your support!!!
 
You can buy this latest new flashcart for the Nintendo DS from Divineo Spain, Divineo Germany, Divineo USA, Divineo China, Divineo UK
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November 8th, 2006, 22:37 Posted By: wraggster
Via DSfanboy
The localized version of Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan! has finally hit our shores and, as Elite Beat Agents, the player is charged with maintaining the super-cool, dressed-in-black stylings of the crew as they bust the most elite beats and kick it to save those in need. Apparently, if the critics are to be believed, in its overhaul from Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan! to Elite Beat Agents, they lost a little something, however reviews generally say the game is worth owning.
Gamespot - 89%: "Though there isn't much competition, Elite Beat Agents is easily the best rhythm game available for the Nintendo DS, and for that matter, it's easily one of the most randomly addictive experiences on the platform. The idea of just tapping circles in time with music while dudes in suits dance doesn't sound like much on paper, but the insane presentational components and enjoyable challenge the game puts forth do a lot to bring the whole experience together into something extremely playable. Those without a penchant for the unabashedly bizarre might find Elite Beat Agents to be a bit too much, but just about anyone else with a DS would do well to try this one out."
IGN - 95%: "Westerners who've played the original Osu! Tatake! Oendan! might end up a little disappointed that the Nintendo of America version might lack the kitschy Japanese flavor with its bandana-adorned personal cheerleaders and incomprehensible J-pop tunes accomodating the quirky, lost-in-translation stories. But even with new characters, popular Western tunes, and plots that actually make sense, Elite Beat Agents retains the awesome, addictive gameplay core. And let's be honest: the Elite Beat Agents are too cool for school and could kick those pansy bathrobe-wearing cheerleaders' asses any day of the week."
1UP - 90%: "Import-geek protestations notwithstanding, Elite Beat Agents is here, and it deserves to be in every DS owner's library. Very few games can truly claim to be for all players of all ages, and this is one of them. With a delirious mix of slapstick humor, comic storytelling, infectious music, and tons of replayability, Elite Beat Agents is one of the best music-oriented games to date and stands among the cream of the DS's impressive library. Don't miss it."
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November 8th, 2006, 22:39 Posted By: wraggster
Via Dsfanboy
With less than a week until Final Fantasy III releases to US gamers, our excitement cannot get any higher. We're serious, we already broke one of our excite-o-meters just trying to measure our excitement.
Video Here
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November 8th, 2006, 22:46 Posted By: wraggster
Smealum has released an awesome looking Doom Type game for the Nintendo DS, heres the full translated info:
Presentation:
Ben then it is simple, I launched out in the creation of a FPS… Technically, it is already quite advanced, even if it misses things enormously and that it is buggé enough (aaaaaah, the collisions….) the bases are there (for example, the collisions are not brilliant but functional: one cannot completely in no case to cross a wall, it is already that ).
[B] Attention, I did not find an emulator which makes turn the play at 100% (finally, free at least, it is possible that the paying version of no$gba makes it turn…). For example: DSmume does not post that the weapon and the sky, but not the 3D. Dualis, it is the opposite, which 3D (but well at least), but not the weapon nor sky…
Screen Ci below was carried out besides by me even via a software of edition of images; it badly does not miss things compared to the last version… (the true play is better )
History:
8/11/2006: First version “general public” (of the younger versions were distributed on IRC, but the project was not enough “mature” “to be announced” openly).
How to play:
Ca, it is rather traditional:
- D-PAD or ABXY to move (front, back, strafe left and right)
- Stylet to aim
- R or L to draw and open/close doors
Other information:
Note that although certain places resemble doors, it is not, they are téléporteurs, it is for that which you will move without same having to press on R if you return inside
Also, if you are really made shit, you can publish the level via a hexadecimal editor (is not this step Refix? ). Indeed, the level is not “hardware coded”: it is contained in a file txt which is inclu in the Romanian one at the compile time. Thanks to that, an editor of level will be very simple to make. To tell the truth, I made the maps play under notepad
Sounds Great, Download and Give Feedback Via Comments
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November 9th, 2006, 13:43 Posted By: Sektor
REminiscence is a rewrite of the engine used in the game Flashback from Delphine Software. REminiscence was coded by Gregory Montoir.
This Nintendo DS port was made by Sektor and uses code from GPF's REminiscence DS port.
v0.2 libfat version- Sound effects are now working (thanks to an updated ndsSDL - http://gpf.dcemu.co.uk/ndsSDL.shtml)
- Music plays but not very well
- Added Lick's libcartreset to allow returning to M3/SD/GBAMP menu without powering off the DS
- Resources and music are read from /data/flashback/data/ on a compatible media device
- Saves are stored at /data/flashback/
Todo (I have no plans but I would like this done eventually):- Improve music playback quality
- Sleep when lid is closed
- Add cheats and level select
- Speed up cut scenes and fix cut scene glitches
You will need the data files from the PC DOS version of the game. Copy the Flashback files to X:\data\flashback\data\ , replace X: with the drive letter of your DS media device.
To hear music, you need the mod.* files from the Amiga version. They should be named like mod.flashback-introb , without a .mod extension.
It should work on M3CF (tested), GBAMP and Supercard. Backup anything important before using any homebrew that writes to your media device. I haven't had any file corruption but I haven't tested every device and backups are always a good idea.
This version won't work on MMD or G6. It should be playable on DS-X but OS v1.0.2 has a problem with the writing code of libfat that stops Flashback from saving correctly (you will fall through the ground and weird things like that).
DS controls:
----------------------------------------------
d-pad move Conrad
A draw/holster gun
B talk / use / run / shoot
X use the current inventory object
Y display the inventory / skip movies
L display the options
R toggles fast mode
- Sektor
- www.GTAMP.com/DS
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November 9th, 2006, 22:11 Posted By: wraggster
The Wii launch is just weeks away, and many who pre-ordered are begining to receive those dreaded emails confirming that they joined the queue a little too late, and they won't get a Wii on launch.
Many Play.com customers have already recieved the bad news: "Dear Customer, due to a European shortage of the Nintendo Wii Consoles, we regret to inform you that Play.com will be unable to supply your pre-ordered Nintendo Wii at launch."
It goes on to say: "We are guaranteed more stock before Christmas, but Nintendo have informed us, along with all other official Nintendo retailers, that the console will not be freely available until next year."
Obviously, this is causing quite a stir so CVG contacted Nintendo to get its take on the situation this Christmas. "In Europe Nintendo is maximising all its resources to ensure that there is a good quantity of stock available in Europe at launch and a regular supply of Wii consoles coming into the market from launch through 2007.
"However due to the phenomenal pace of pre-orders over recent weeks, it is likely that demand will outstrip supply at launch." This is bad news for all those that joined the pre-order party late in the day.
It's not necessarily too late yet, however, because CVG has heard of a few cases where eager beavers here in UK have found electrical stores such as Comet or Dixons to have very few pre-orders placed. Granted, they'll probably only get a small number of units at launch, but it's worth a try if you're one of, say, four in the queue, don't you think?
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November 9th, 2006, 22:14 Posted By: wraggster
Elebits was originally touted as a Wii launch game over in the US, but it will miss the November 19 launch date, reports IGN.
The game, which has players using the Wii Remote like a wand to search through domestic environments for energy-giving creatures, is now expected to be released on either December 12 or 18, apparently depending on a pending Nintendo approval process.
We're not due to see the game here in UK until after Christmas anyway, with a European release currently set as Q1 2007, which is a tad vague.
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November 9th, 2006, 22:15 Posted By: wraggster
The Rumble Pak was one of the N64's many great innovations, accentuating in-game crashes, bumps and explosions by shaking the controller.
But when N64 games arrive on the Virtual Console retro downloads system on Wii, they'll lack forcefeedback support, Nintendo has confirmed to CVG in a Q&A regarding the Virtual Console.
This might be due to the lack of a rumble feature in the Classic Controller, which will be the primary controller for playing Virtual Console games on Wii. But with the option to play VC games with a GameCube controller, which does feature a rumble motor, we had hoped that games would retain their pad-shaking features.
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November 9th, 2006, 22:22 Posted By: wraggster
News from Divineo USA
The new low cost M3 Adapters Pro are on the way here. It have less compatibility with GBA software, but offer great support for DS.
More Info
The M3 Lite is the answer of M3 team to the Nintendo DS Lite. It is a full blown M3 adapter that will perfectly fit into your Nintendo DS Lite GBA cartrige slot without sticking out, and with all the functions of the M3 Adapter. It is using Micro SD card and comes with 3 cases (Black, White and Ice Blue) for perfect integration in the design of your Nintendo DS Lite.
Does not include a Passkey or Passcard.
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November 9th, 2006, 22:32 Posted By: wraggster
Speaking at the Montréal Games Summit, Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime has said that more and more developers are turning their attentions to the Wii - and away from rival consoles.
"We've had a tremendous amount of third party support as we've prepared for the launch. The shift that's been reported in developer focus from those other consoles to Wii truly is happening," Fils-Aime told the audience.
"And Mr Iwata, the entire senior team in Japan, my leadership team in the States - we recognise the tremendous contribution that you have made to the launch of Wii."
Fils-Aime went on to defend Nintendo's decision to bundle the new console with the Wii Sports game, saying, "We talk to business men, we talk to analysts, and they say, 'Why did you do this? You could have easily boosted your bottom line by selling this title.'
"And we say, it would have been off our strategy to sell it - we had to make it available to all of those consumers that'll buy the hardware to have a great first experience."
Fils-Aime believes the arrival of the Wii will herald fundamental shift for games, just as Super Mario 64's 3D graphics did in a previous console cycle. "We believe with the next home console a similar change can happen; and it'll happen week after next, with the launch of Wii," he said, adding, "We don't believe you can expand the market by using a traditional multi-button masher of a controller."
Earlier in his speech, Fils-Aime discussed the success of the Nintendo DS with reference to its performance in the Canadian market. "Looking at monthly sales this year, up until May, we were running about neck and neck with our competition," he observed.
"But since the launch of DS Lite, sales have soared. During [the last six month] period, the advantage in unit sales is about two and a half to one, and DS is the top selling platform so far this year in Canada by a wide margin."
According to Fils-Aime, Nintendo believes it has a mission to "change the central dynamic of this industry", which over the last few years "was becoming consumed by intesifying the game experience along a very narrow path".
"We believe that narrow path was alienating a lot of potential consumers during that time. Almost all publishers and manufacturers were chasing the same class of player; a group that many believe had a seemingly limitless desire for more of the same," he continued.
"We opted for disruption - not ignoring these core players, but looking beyond them; looking for a way to expand the market audience to include new types of players."
The Nintendo Wii will go on sale in North America on November 19, with the European launch to follow on December 8.
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November 9th, 2006, 22:48 Posted By: wraggster
In September, the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) gave ratings for unannounced Wii versions of a number of classic Sega games that were assumed to be part of the company's Virtual Console downloadable game service.
Those assumptions were proven correct last week as Nintendo and Sega both confirmed the same slate of Sega titles would be among the 30 downloadable Virtual Console games available by the end of 2006. And while the games have now been officially announced, they were pulled at some point from the ESRB Web site and have yet to be reposted.
The ESRB might have done it again, as the company's Web site today lists an assortment of unconfirmed games for the Nintendo Wii, all of which bear names familiar to longtime gamers. A scan of the ESRB Web site's ratings database culled the following unannounced titles, some of which have previously been hinted at:
Punch-Out
Pro Wrestling
Kirby's Adventure
Kid Icarus
Hogan's Alley
Wild Gunman
Duck Hunt
PilotWings
All of the games received a rating of E for Everyone. It's worth noting that while these games would be plausible Virtual Console candidates, GameStop has been accepting preorders for Wii versions of Duck Hunt and PilotWings for months, both with a $49.99 price tag that would be more suited to a new installment in each series, rather than a straight retro release. A Wii game strongly reminescent of Duck Hunt was also shown in an E3 tech demo meant to feature the Wiimote's light gun-like capabilities. A Wii version of Kid Icarus has also been rumored for several months.
A Nintendo representative had not returned GameSpot's request for comment as of press time.
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November 9th, 2006, 22:53 Posted By: wraggster
It turns out that Taito have gone for the more traditional peripheral route for their upcoming bullet train simulation epic on the Wii.
Being a moderate connoisseur of console peripherals, that does look awfully similar to the PlayStation 2 controller for Densha de Go! Shinkansen: Sanyō Shinkansen Hen though.
The game will be released february of next year for the princely sum of 6090 yen. For those that live near or in Osaka, you can fondly caress this controller at the Games Japan Festa opening in the next few days.
Screen Via Comments
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November 9th, 2006, 22:57 Posted By: wraggster
A recent issue of UK's Prima magazine featured a disturbing Nintendo advertorial (i.e. an advertisement pretending to be an article) pitching Wii to the non-gamer type. This thing is so misleading, we'll just note the worst and wallow in our discomfort elsewhere:
The feigned article vies to help individuals get fit while playing Wii. Umm, go work out or ride one of these...
"Turn off the TV and get active in your own home with the revolutionary Wii." Umm, keep that TV on so you can use the console...
The article suggests not to sit your children in front of a TV, but in front of the Wii instead. Umm, still not getting it...
They make the Wii sound like a happy weight loss social center filled with rainbows and sugar plums rather than the video game console it is. And BOOOO creepy Wii advertorial image. Hooray, gaming grandpa!
More info
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November 9th, 2006, 23:08 Posted By: wraggster
The rock and rollocking success of Red Octane’s Guitar Hero game seems to have inspired the guys at Plato studio over in Japan to try to recreate the rock and roll experience for Nintendo’s handheld.
Plato, the team behind the hugely successful English language teaching software for DS, is developing the handheld guitar game, called Hiite Utaeru DS Guitar M-06.
According to reports on 1UP, “The game allows anyone to strum out a few pleasant sounds, while proper guitar players can also feel at home with the ability to control the sound like a real guitar. 120 chords are built in, with three plucking variations of each. These are navigated with the d-pad, while the pen is brushed across the touch screen to strum.”
Plato claims to have demonstrated the game to professional guitarists who have reacted favourably, particularly liking the fact that the DS guitar-simulator could be carried around in a pocket.
Hiite Utaeru DS Guitar M-06 goes on sale in Japan at the end of December.
SPOnG will be looking to get more information on this intriguing little title, along with details of any plans for a US/European release in 2007.
Via Spong
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November 9th, 2006, 23:11 Posted By: wraggster
Reports are emerging today that demand for Nintendo’s Wii is going to far outstrip supply this coming Christmas season. Well, there’s a surprise. Not!
Play.com has already been shamefully guilty of cancelling pre-orders, with many receiving the following email in recent days:
"Dear Customer, due to a European shortage of the Nintendo Wii Consoles, we regret to inform you that Play.com will be unable to supply your pre-ordered Nintendo Wii at launch. We are guaranteed more stock before Christmas, but Nintendo have informed us, along with all other official Nintendo retailers, that the console will not be freely available until next year."
If you are busting for a Wii this December and haven’t yet pre-ordered, then it looks like you’d better get ready for some camping out in the cold. On that note, SPOnG is already hearing stories of PS3 queues forming outside Best Buys in California – NINE days before launch.
We’ll be trying to interview some of these crazy fools, who clearly have no lives or work or families to worry about, in the coming days.
SPOnG’s also hearing on the grapevine that N64 VC games will NOT feature force feedback (as per the classic Rumble Pak) as they will make use of the Wii’s Classic Controller, which has no rumble motor. More from Nintendo on this anon.
In more positive Wii news, SPOnG told you earlier this week about a bunch of confirmed Virtual Console titles for early 2007 as confirmed on the ESRB ratings website. A bunch more Nintendo classics have now been added to that list, which are:
• Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars (Super NES; rated E for Everyone)
• Kirby's Super Star (Super NES; rated E for Everyone)
• Mario Kart 64 (Nintendo 64; rated E for Everyone)
• Starfox 64 (Nintendo 64; rated E for Everyone)
• Super Metroid (Super NES; rated E for Everyone)
• Kirby's Dream Land 3 (Super NES; rated E for Everyone)
• The Legend of Zelda: The Ocarina of Time (Nintendo 64; rated E for Everyone)
• Excitebike (NES; rated E for Everyone)
• Ice Climber (NES; rated E for Everyone)
• Dr. Mario (NES; rated E for Everyone)
• Mario Brothers (NES; rated E for Everyone)
• Ice Hockey (NES; rated E for Everyone)
• Soccer (NES; rated E for Everyone)
Impressive stuff we're sure you agree. To be fair, many if not most of the above were already known about or at least assumed/rumoured to be heading the way of the Virtual Console. But it’s still great news to see the above list and know that we’ll be playing most of those games again early in the New Year.
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November 9th, 2006, 23:35 Posted By: wraggster
New Nintendo DS accessory at SuccessHK:
Product Features of Nintendo DS Theme Interchangeable Crystal Case
Made of high transparent and crystal bright polycarbonate
Keeps your console from scratches
Precision access to jacks, ports and switches
10 bonus fantastic interchangeable game theme graphics
Available colors: Clear Blue / Clear / Clear Pink
More Description of Nintendo DS Theme Interchangeable Crystal Case
The Theme Interchangeable Crystal Case provides a stylish but strong protection to your DS Lite. The fitting design allows every function being easily accessed. The included game theme graphics let you change the style of your console once you feel boring with it.
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November 10th, 2006, 00:10 Posted By: wraggster
Shash posted this news about his Progress on the DS Emulator for windows:
I'm really busy with stuff not related to emulation right now, so not much progress has been done. I've only done some work towards making 3D processing faster, but least than a 5% improvement was achieved :P
I've really been thinking about when I should release, and I narrowed it down to one option: I'll release when either Super Mario DS or Metroid Prime look right, that means fixing compressed textures or fixing the generated texture coordinates. I'll probably make other speed fixes, but compatibility comes first.
No interesting stuff today neither shots, but it's late and I'm too tired :P
More Info
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November 10th, 2006, 00:29 Posted By: wraggster
Infantile Paralysiser have posted a new release of his image viewer for the Nintendo DS:
' Improving, it made the pictur.e quality of the CustomJpeg format default setting. (The IPK file which was made with Ver0.3test3 there is no compatibility)
The bug which with specific resolution has difference in preview size and full size was corrected.?'
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November 10th, 2006, 00:31 Posted By: wraggster
LiraNuna posted this news:
Thanks to AlexFili for letting me know the sources for Tales of Dagur did not work on the latest devkitPro.
Therefor I have released a fixed version of the source.
For the interested ones, here is a list of what is fixed:
ARM7’s makefile is changed to produce binaries in Thumb mode to reduce the code size to fit the 64k limit.
The ToD engine had a bug enabling effects before switching to a level. This caused the level handler to crash when loading the first map.
More Info --> http://liranuna.drunkencoders.com/tod-sources-fixed/
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November 10th, 2006, 00:35 Posted By: wraggster
Via Just Pause
While skimming through Volume 210 of Nintendo Power, I came across a few lines I would have missed otherwise. I havn’t seen this anywhere on the web, and would have missed out otherwise. For all Animal Crossing: Wild World owners, that are able to go on Wi-Fi this is a heads up to be sure to go online durring the days of Pre-Wii November 17th through Wii Phase Nov 24th. Do reconfirm that is Nov 17th-24th 2006. The item is relating and in honor of the Twilight Princess launch and comes with a letter and a very rare gift.
"SHHH . IT’S A SECRET"
Nov 17-24th 2006
Listen carefully NP faithful. To commeroate the launch of The Legend Of Zelda: Twilight Princess for Wii on Nov 19th, Nintendo will be giving away a very speical, very rare gift in Animal Crossing: Wild World. Be sure to connect to Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection during the week of Nov 17th-24th to recive a letter from Nintendo (which will show up in your mailbox near your home) and collect the attached item-you don’t want to miss this one."-Nintendo Power
Well I broke the secret...sorry Nintendo Power. Mark the day on your calender as will I, and I will be sure to remind you on Nov 16th to log in for the following day.
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November 10th, 2006, 00:36 Posted By: wraggster
Does your brain need some hot puzzle action? Not to fret! Agetec has the answer, though you'll just have to wait until next February to get down with the puzzles. The publisher's latest, the Brain Buster Puzzle Pak is set to bring five different games to the DS: Sudoku, Kakuro, Light Up, Nurikabe, and Slitherlink (aka Fences), all of which were created in conjunction with popular Japanese puzzle mag Nikoli.
Via DS Fanboy
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November 10th, 2006, 00:45 Posted By: wraggster
ttursas has again updated his homebrew game for the DS, heres whats new:
What's new in v0.1.3:
* Integrated libfat and libcartreset (press SELECT+ START to reset to GBA slot).
* The player plane doesn't zoom with the layers, when changing layers.
* Added machine gun sound.
* Machine gun bullets are now gray.
* The planes are now positioned nicer in the plane selection menu screen.
* The plane selection menu screen shows the plane stats (not yet in use, though).
* Animated the mines.
* You cannot change the level or the plane model when a network game is on.
* When changing the level, the plane model selection remains.
* If you get "CANNOT CONNECT" from dswifilib, it's possible to try again.
* Kill statistics are now saved on the server side.
* The player can scroll through these statistics on the PLAY STATISTICS menu
page, if there is a connection to the server.
* Redrew the test levels KUUSIKKO and AARRELAIVA.
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November 10th, 2006, 00:50 Posted By: Dee-Lite
I just found this video on Youtube
It features an australian game critic playing on a Wii in what appears to be a retail store.
Im pretty certain it's not Nintendo World, so could this be what we are all getting in our stores as demo machines?
Judge for yourselves
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November 10th, 2006, 00:55 Posted By: wraggster
The Hive has released a new Public Beta Version of his Spectrum emulator for the Nintendo DS,
What's new?
-----------
+ Fixed for M3, probably MP, and Supercard 1.70 also.
+ New theme.
+ Couple of other fixes.
G6 is next.
Heres his puzzle:
Another puzzle and this time the password is in caps and its the first letter from the 9 screens via comments
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November 10th, 2006, 01:02 Posted By: wraggster
Via Jayenkai:
Currently titled "JNKPlat : Dungeon Escape", but should really be something like "Dungeon Scram" or something like that.. But Dungeon Scram sounds a bit of a naff title, compared to Dungeon Escape..
Technically, there's 12 levels in here, but level 12 isn't done, and level 4 is the same as level 2... just the other half of it!
No titlescreen yet. And once you hit Level 12, you might as well just quit, and have done with it. Unless you really like the balloons.
Controls
DPad to move
B to hold
Y to Jump Left and A to Jump Right.. Sounds odd, but you'll get to grips with it fairly quickly!
The game is meant to be "More Puzzle than Platform", but it's kind of evolved to become more actiony than previous JNKPlat games I've created.
Hope you enjoy it.. Plenty more to come... And if I can figure out that stupid file system stuff, I'll add a level editor, too
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November 10th, 2006, 01:06 Posted By: wraggster
New from Mollusk:
A new graphist has come to help me out… I’m known worldwide for my horrible graphics skills…
Well, here comes Nhut ! I showed him the vital stuff to update, and he started out with Carre Rouge. A few minutes later, he had some screenshots to show me, and not much time after that the final version ^^
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November 10th, 2006, 09:10 Posted By: kcajblue
The V30 GM and Loader have been released.
M3 Website
Linfox Domain (Faster Download Speeds)
What is new in V30
M3 Game Manager V30 + loader V30
=================================
0580-42,0595-42,0602,0643,0649,0650,0659,0661 "fast mode" are supported.
0604,0621,0635,0639 the graphic at the bottom screen will be displayed properly.
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November 10th, 2006, 16:47 Posted By: wraggster
The Nintendo Wii was the topic of a hilarious episode of South Park last week, which saw Cartman, desperate to get a Wii, freezing himself in an attempt to pass the time until launch as quickly as possible.
But instead of waking up on the day of launch as he had planned, he instead remained frozen for 500 years, and is revived by the advanced future civilisation of earth, when the Wii is nothing but forgotten blip in human history.
The episode ended on a cliff hanger, and now the second part to the story has been aired, featuring an even more bizarre storyline. Does Cartman ever get his hands on the Wii? Some kind fellow has uploaded both episodes to Dailymotion.com, so check them out. Be quick though, they have a tendency to disappear after a short while.
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November 10th, 2006, 16:48 Posted By: wraggster
Majesco has revealed that the newly titled Bust-A-Move Bash! will come to Wii with a multiplayer mode for up to eight players.
What's interesting is how on earth this will work. At the moment we know it only to be possible to connect four Wii Remotes to the console at any time. Could it be that the game will use some sort of Wireless Wii multitap?
Our only other guess is that it could use a combination of Wii Remotes and extension controllers like the Nunchuk or classic controller, with players having to sit in pairs to share controllers. It may even use GameCube pads.
Majesco was not available for comment at present, but we'll chase down the details.
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November 10th, 2006, 22:17 Posted By: wraggster
Last week, GameSpot was brought a new bundle of joy in the form of Sony's PlayStation 3. The stork has arrived again, this time bearing Nintendo's Wii. Though the console isn't making its worldwide debut until November 19, On the Spot is giving gamers an advanced peek at what to expect from the anticipated console.
On schedule to be demonstrated are all three Nintendo first-party launch titles--Excite Truck, Wii Sports, and a little game subtitled Twilight Princess. Electronic Arts and Sega are also expected to provide some games for show.
Like last week's PlayStation 3 unveiling, GameSpot editors will be popping in and out of the studio, trying their hand (and arms) at the Wii and its motion-sensitive controller. Those watching the video live are also invited to submit questions via e-mail or through the video player's question submission form.
On the Spot's hands-on with the Wii is expected to run until 4 p.m., when GameSpot Tournament TV begins airing the Fatal Face-Off Mortal Kombat Armageddon competition.
Live Video Here
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November 10th, 2006, 22:28 Posted By: wraggster
Massive GBA Release today and its a US Version (english):
Price: US$ 39.90 (~21.14 GBP)
features
New Jobs: Gladiator, Oracle, Necromancer, and Cannoneer
An all-new dungeon
Expanded monster bestiary
Improved graphics
Music player and remixed soundtrack
description
FINAL FANTASY V, the relatively obscure classic known mostly for its sophisticated and in-depth job system, will soon be re-released for American fans to enjoy, with new challenges, new dungeons, and plenty of other exciting additions designed to please both hardcore and first time players alike.
FINAL FANTASY V Advance begins in the Wind Shrine, where the King of Tycoon has come to investigate an irregularity in the winds. He’s just in time to see the magical wind crystal shatter, which stops the wind everywhere in the world. The king’s daughter, Princess Lenna, who followed him to the Wind Shrine, finds a mysterious old man, Galuf, lying unconscious next to a meteor. Lenna, Galuf, the explorer Bartz, and the pirate Faris are drawn together by fate to find out the mystery behind not only Galuf’s meteor, but the elemental crystals and the evil plot of the man known as Exdeath.
More Info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1mm7.html
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November 10th, 2006, 22:55 Posted By: wraggster
New version of the DS Emulator for windows:
- Corrected bug in the 3D
- Corrected a bug in the menu
- Added the function Open and Execute
- Improved the speed of execution (of 2 fps)
- Reduced the key rom
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November 10th, 2006, 22:57 Posted By: wraggster
Via IGN
Unless you have mighty muscles like IGN editor Craig Harris, you can't take your favorite pinball machine with you when traveling. Thanks to Ignition Entertainment, you can still enjoy the thrill of pinball in the far more portable Nintendo DS. Flipper Critters is described as a pinball adventure game. Developed by Zen Studios, Flipper Critters blends traditional pinball gameplay with an adventurous story.
Gamers journey from a majestic castle all the way to the moon in a quest to assist Bull, a bovine with a cold. Though Flipper Critters is, at its core, a pinball game, it features a three-dimensional world. This isn't your standard pinball title.
"Flipper Critters is a unique adventure, combining classic RPG-like story elements with a pinball game interface," said Paul Robinson, President of Ignition Entertainment. "The entire family will enjoy playing together on the go with their Nintendo DS, immersing themselves into the cute critter world while enjoying arcade-style pinball action."
Flipper Critters ships in spring 2007.
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November 10th, 2006, 23:03 Posted By: wraggster
Infantile Paralysiser have posted a new release of his image viewer for the Nintendo DS:
' The scroll speed-up was done in double screen mode of the slide show.
A small bug of the slide show was mended.
EZ4 was supported. (Thank you for Ko-tei)
A long file name was made to be scrolled when the IPK file was selected.
The reduction rate (37%/50%/62%/75%/87%/100%/125%/150%/175%/200%) was added, and the icon was added.
The custom jpeg format was added for small file size. (It is compatible with an old IPK file.)
A small bug was corrected.
The user interface was changed a little.
'
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November 10th, 2006, 23:08 Posted By: wraggster
News/release from Mollusk:
Zi is tetris-like game, which is actually closer to meteos… You can move the blocks around like in meteos. Once you have a set of 3 or more blocks, you can remove them by clicking on the set, kind of like in a JawBreaker game…
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November 11th, 2006, 16:37 Posted By: wraggster
Rumours that Nintendo Wii launch title ExciteTruck allows for custom soundtracks have turned out to be true, with US review copies revealing the option.
All you have to do is insert is put some MP3 files onto an SD Card and then pop the card into the Wii's SD slot before you start up the game.
Then, before a race begins, press the plus-sign on the Wii remote and you're taken to the Sound Options screen, where you can select SD Card and then browse through the first 100 songs stored on the card.
It's possible to choose a specific song, to randomise all shown songs, or, if you can't be bothered, to highlight "Default" to listen to the game's built-in music.
The news that some Wii games will incorporate custom soundtrack options is quite pleasing, and follows on from the practice instigated by Microsoft with Xbox.
We'll let you know if we find out about any others.
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November 11th, 2006, 17:03 Posted By: wraggster
New preorder for Wii from SuccessHK
Price:USD 48.74
Call of Duty 3 continues the series of World War II shooters, this time focusing on the battle for the liberation of Paris - known as the Normandy Breakout.
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November 11th, 2006, 17:30 Posted By: wraggster
Via IGN
IGN's final retail Wii system arrived at the office this morning, and we have been delving into the beauty of this mysterious new console ever since. After booting up the system and entering our system settings, we were shocked to discover that although we could see the different Wii channels, we could not access those that needed an Internet connection without an initial upgrade.
It seems that the Wii needs this upgrade in order to be able to connect to the Weather, News or Shop Channels. Unfortunately, when we tried to run this upgrade, we were treated to an error screen informing us that our Wii was unable to connect to the network. It seems that, prior to launch, the Wii will not have access to any of the channels or applications that require the user to connect to Nintendo's network. That's bad news for those of you out there intent on getting a Wii before November 19.
This revelation came as a shock and a disappointment to many at IGN, as it would have been nice to download some classic games for the Virtual Console. We will keep you posted on any later developments.
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November 11th, 2006, 21:30 Posted By: wraggster
OMalone is the first abalone game playable on Nintendo DS. Heres whats new:
First I would like to thank my new designer "FA", and all the testers.
So you can now download the first beta version of omalone 2.0 which integrates the wifi mode.
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November 11th, 2006, 22:01 Posted By: wraggster
Gerard Posted this news:
Hi,
I will speak about a spanish project. It isn't a homebrew or aplication, ... It's only a magazine. But a special magazine. That will be free and on-line. When we finish, you will be allow to download it.
The Magazine it's called DsceneMagazine and it will be write in spanish. But Comments sections and others could be in other lenguages.
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November 11th, 2006, 22:06 Posted By: wraggster
Mr Sid has released a new pseudo-emulator that runs the GEOS operating system for the Commodore 64. its name is geosDS:
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November 11th, 2006, 22:10 Posted By: wraggster
Infantile Paralysiser have posted a new release of his image viewer for the Nintendo DS:
There was a bug in an old version.
I am sorry, please update this.
Heres what was new from the last main release
' The scroll speed-up was done in double screen mode of the slide show.
A small bug of the slide show was mended.
EZ4 was supported. (Thank you for Ko-tei)
A long file name was made to be scrolled when the IPK file was selected.
The reduction rate (37%/50%/62%/75%/87%/100%/125%/150%/175%/200%) was added, and the icon was added.
The custom jpeg format was added for small file size. (It is compatible with an old IPK file.)
A small bug was corrected.
The user interface was changed a little.'
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November 11th, 2006, 22:12 Posted By: wraggster
CraigT posted some new WIP news of his Spectrum emu for DS:
Thanks to the two games submitted by Charlie as not working (wheres the rest of you, eh? ), i’ve made a lot progress in fixing bugs in the CPU core… Critical Mass was particulary useful. Thanks for your help. Charlie!
As a result, the following games now seem to work perfectly… Arkanoid, Bubble Bobble, Critical Mass, MegaBucks (yay!) and Zynaps. The AI in Chaos is fixed, but there is still the odd graphical glitch. Starquake still seems to crash, which is a shame.
The bug fixes have also sorted out the flashing graphics in a few games, such as Spike in Transylvania. Now i’ve just got to track down that Starquake bug…
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November 11th, 2006, 22:15 Posted By: wraggster
News/release from EO
Hi, I'm Eo.
This is my first work on NDS, it is a reader for EDICT dictionnary format (Roman based alphabet languages/Japanese).
Even though there are already commercial japanese dictionnaries for DS (latest versions with shape recognition are quite impressive), I started to implement this reader for EDICT to have access to the dictionnary of the word processor I use on my PC: jwpce. There are a couple of projects in progress around using the same dict format and I really look forward to them for it seems that they will be far more finalized than mine...
It is now still a proof of concept for testing Edict file access and displaying kanjis. The interface is a bit "rudimentary"... I'm trying to find a good way to display the characters and give access to functions. To keep the distribution small (less than 1MB with 7Zip) and save on memory I had to do some sacrifices on CPU so it is not yet really responsive too.
Any suggestions or bug report are welcome.
If you have time, you learn Japanese and you are looking for open source tools go have a look at Jim Breen's Japanese Page (EDICT homepage): http://www.csse.monash.edu.au/~jwb/j_edict.html
Eo
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November 12th, 2006, 11:00 Posted By: wraggster
Via DSfanboy
Just when you thought the Nintendogs franchise had gone as far as it could go, here comes one of the most clever uses of the license yet -- trainable toy dogs based on breeds from the games. There are two types; the simpler Trick Trainer Pups come with a magnetic bone that can be used to guide them through tricks. The more elaborate, aptly-named Interactive Play puppies do just that -- they interact by wagging their tails when they're stroked, howling when you howl, and some will even snarl and growl during a game of tug-of-war. Toss in a slipper-chewing feature and it's almost like having a real dog!
The plushy pups debuted last week in the UK from retailer Tomy and through Amazon UK for 9.99 (about $20 USD) for the Trick Trainers and 24.99 for for the Interactive Play Pups.
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November 12th, 2006, 12:23 Posted By: jojotjuh
from the supercard site:
"Recently, there are some customers downgrade the SuperCard Lite version firmware v1.7 to v1.63. Even I don't know why they downgrade it, but they found out that the SuperCard Lite crash.
Here list below are the steps: How to upgrade to V1.7 again.
# 1. Format a MicroSD card.
# 2. Copy the firmware V1.7 file on it. Don't copy any other files.
# 3. Insert the MicroSD card and SuperCard Lite.
# 4. Open the DS power switch, don't care about the screen and wait 5 seconds.
# 5. press "A" button. You will find out that you can upgrade to V1.7 "
so, dont downgrade peopes, will give you problems!!!
source
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November 12th, 2006, 13:51 Posted By: Dee-Lite
While browsing youtube I came accross this video. It features 2m 36secs of Link in his wolf form
Enjoy!
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November 12th, 2006, 20:15 Posted By: wraggster
Since all four of us can't play Zelda at the same time, we passed the Wii-less hours by poring over the 69 page "systems and settings" manual that came with the Wii (not to be confused with the 105-page, trilingual "system setup" manual that's also included). Here are some of the odd and/or interesting things we noticed.
"Up to 100 Miis can stay in your Mii Plaza." (pg. 11)
"The Photo Channel can display a maximum of approximately 1,000 photos. If your SD card has more than 1,000 photos, remove the card from the Wii console and remove or reorganize your photos in your camera, cell phone or computer." (pg. 15)
"You can not save or overwrite photos or videos on the SD card." (pg. 20)
"Any of the options in Fun! mode [doodles, etc. -Ed.] can be applied to individual frames of a video." (pg. 21)
The photo channel supports JPGs of up to 8192x8192 resolution and QuickTime files of up to 848x480. (pg. 22)
MP3 audio is listed under supported formats. After quite a bit of searching, we figured out how this feature works, but we didn't like what we found (more later.)
"NOTE: Your use of the Wii Shop Channel is subject to your acceptance of the Wii Users Agreement, the Wii Privacy Policy and the Wii Code of Conduct. Copies of the most updated versions of these agreements may be found at support.nintendo.com. [not yet - Ed.]" (pg. 24)
"NOTE: Some Virtual Console games can only be played with a Classic Controller. (sold separately) [this seems to contradict previous confirmation that Gamecube controllers would work on all Virtual Console games -Ed.]" (pg. 25)
"Software downloaded from the Wii Shop Channel is licensed to you, not sold" (pg. 25)
"NOTE: The calendar displays dates from January 2000 to December 2035." (pg. 31)
"NOTE: You will not be able to send photos from your Wii console to the PC/cell phone user." (pg. 36)
"NOTE: The Wii console uses a 24 hour clock. For example, 1:00 pm is displayed as 13:00 pm" (pg. 42)
The parental control features "does NOT control access to Nintendo GameCube games" (pg. 46)
"If you use the messaging features of the Wii console, you need to understand that Nintendo may monitor your use and share certain information (i) as required by law, (ii) where necessary to protect the company, its customers or its employees, (iii) as necessary to provide the services. [Big Brother is watching -Ed.]" (pg. 47)
"NOTE: The initial recommended distance for using the Wii Remote Pointer is 3 to 8 feet from the sensor bar ... Also note that the influence of direct sunlight and various light sources can make the Pointer operation less optimal. [Oh really... -Ed.]" (pg. 50)
By formatting the Wii Shop Channel from the Wii's system menu, you clear all "records of your transactions and rights to download software." (pg. 61)
"NOTE: You should format your Wii Shop Channel data first, then your Wii System Memory, prior to selling or otherwise transferring your Wii console to any third party." (pg. 61)
"NOTE: Adjusting the speaker and Rumble settings will affect all Wii remotes currently connected to the Wii console. [I hope everyone likes the same settings. -Ed.]" (pg. 63)
Via Joystiq
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November 12th, 2006, 20:17 Posted By: wraggster
If you've been paying attention to every bit of Wii news and trivia over the past months, you might know all of the following facts about Nintendo's newest system. For those of you not so in the know, here are some factoids we picked up on while tinkering this weekend.
It doesn't play CDs, but it plays AVIs off your digital camera's SD card.
The flaps that protect the Gamecube controllers and memory card slots are removable.
Wii Sports includes training and workout modes.
You can let one remote control all four players in Wii Sports: Tennis.
It takes five pieces of heart to make a heart container in Zelda: Twilight Princess
The box includes two clear plastic holders: one for the sensor bar and another that acts as a stabilizer for the thick, gray console stand
When used as a pointer, the Wii detects how far the remote is from the sensor bar.
The system keeps track of your cumulative play time for all games, and logs it on your Wii's daily message board.
The standard A/V cables that have worked on every Nintendo system since the SNES do not work on the Wii (the system-side input is different)
The system doubles as a great whiteboard.
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November 12th, 2006, 20:28 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo’s launch has been helped by the fact that it called the handheld market so well. DS didn’t convince nearly as many observers at its launch, as Wii has. And yet it has left PSP behind. We ask about Sony’s troubles, and about the delay of PS3 in Europe. What does that mean for Nintendo?
“It means that I’m going to have a great holiday,” says Fils-Aime. “It means that, with our strategy, we are going to have a fantastic holiday on Wii as well as on DS. Are my competitors making some mistakes? Yes they are. But I‘ll tell you this: Sony is a formidable company and I respect them and I don’t take them lightly. We have to do what we need to do, let them do what they’re going to do. If they continue to make mistakes that’s their problem not mine. We are focused on making sure that we are going to be successful.
More Info
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November 12th, 2006, 20:33 Posted By: wraggster
WFCStatus by KevinC is a status viewer for Nintendo's WiFi connection.
Heres whats new:
- Added 3 games (incl. Harvest Moon and Yu-Gi-Oh! GX: Spirit Caller)
- Added more gameinfo on stats tab
- Added graph options (bars, AA, smooth, fill)
- Added option to enter nickname (for showing up in Now Online)
- Added better notification of loading errors (now online, top 10)
- Updated a few games (box art and info)
- Removed use of registry: FC's and settings are saved to file now
- Changed custom graph tab and some contextmenu's
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November 12th, 2006, 21:42 Posted By: wraggster
Those of you who are Gamecube Owners will have heard of FreeLoader and if you havent heres a reminder:
Launch and play imported GameCube™ games from any region
No need to modify your console – keeps your warranty intact
Add loads of new titles to your GameCube™ collection, including games that may never be released in your region
Play US and Japanese games on a PAL GameCube™
Play PAL games on a US or Japanese GameCube™
Fast and easy to use
Hopefully this will work perfect on the Wii next week at the release but also will we see a Freeloader for Wii from Datel, fingers crossed eh
Im sure we all want to play games from a different region.
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November 13th, 2006, 01:06 Posted By: wraggster
ttursas has again updated his homebrew game for the DS, heres whats new:
What's new in v0.1.4:
* Added texture manager for the plane textures, and now you can mix different planes
in network play.
* When changing planes while PAUSE is on, the plane is now correclty centered.
* Increased collision accuracy for the bullets (not for machine gun bullets, they are
handled simpler).
* Brought the two level layers closer to each other, and made the zooming less
aggressive.
* Background destroying wasn't distributed correctly between the players.
* The layer base color affects the planes, bullets and particles correclty.
* The front layer became darker after changing the layers for the first time.
* The player can choose the plane he wants to follow in the network play.
* Changed the network play logic a little. Now the client doesn't disconnect from the
server after the player has died. Disconnecting must be done manually.
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November 13th, 2006, 20:14 Posted By: wraggster
After all the rumours, intrigue and speculation, the mystery of the Wii console is finally coming to an end as the manual is exposed, uncovering some of the last few details about the hardware.
One of the most interesting points highlighted in the manual, which was acquired by Joystiq, is the fact that certain virtual console games will only be compatible with the Classic Controller, which contradicts earlier word from Nintendo that seemed to suggest the GameCube controller to be fully compatible with all VC software.
Also on the topic of the Virtual Console is a formatting option, which clears all records of the Virtual Console games purchased on that console - to be used before flogging the console.
Good news for young ones - the Wii parental control features don't restrict use of GameCube games. So, all you need to do is get your dozy parent to THINK it does, then get your Resi 4 action in when they're not around.
The Fun! Mode, an option that allows you to draw and edit images, also allows you to play around with individual frames of a video stored on your SD card.
Wii Remote configuration, like speaker and rumble settings, will affect all remotes connected to the console. And the manual also confirms that the optimum distance range for the player to be from the sensor bar is between three to eight feet, as suggested by CVG earlier.
The Wii will be out in the US this Sunday November 19, while us Brits will unfortunately be a waiting a further three weeks for our consoles, which go on sale on December 8.
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November 13th, 2006, 20:16 Posted By: wraggster
The Wii version of Marvel Ultimate Alliance will feature a cool gesture system that has you mimicking the moves of your heroes to activate their super powers, and this trailer shows how it works.
Playable by up to four players, MUA will let you control one of dozens of heroes, each with their own powers and the movement gestures to activate them.
You'll be making throwing motions to lob Captain America's shield, reaching into the air to use Storm's electric power or thrusting your hands forward to use Human Torch's flame-throwing attack.
The game will be available on the Wii launch, December 8.
Video Here
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November 13th, 2006, 20:20 Posted By: wraggster
Not long now. December 8 (or November 19, if you're getting a US one) is Wii launch day. We've already booked the day off work and are counting down the days.
Earlier today Nintendo sent over some images for its official Wii peripherals.
Check out the Classic controller, a few leads and Nunchuk and Remote boxes HERE.
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November 13th, 2006, 20:27 Posted By: wraggster
Pierre-Paul Trépanier, marketing director for Nintendo Canada, has told GamesIndustry.biz he believes it's unfair to "force" new technologies such as HD-DVD and Blu-Ray on gamers.
Speaking in an interview at the Montréal International Games Summit last week, Trépanier said he's not concerned that Blu-Ray will help shift PlayStation 3 units - despite the fact that PS2 sales were boosted by the console's DVD playback feature.
"When I'm buying a gaming system, I'm focused on the games; I want to play games, and I think that's the primary reason why someone would buy a gaming system," said Trépanier.
"I think forcing a decision on consumers would certainly not be part of Nintendo's strategy, because we want to get more people into gaming and we want to make it affordable. Forcing people to adopt a technology and a model that's proprietary and still not established is unfair to gamers."
It was recently revealed that Nintendo plans to ship a new version of the Wii with a DVD playback feature in Japan next year. According to Trépanier, the decision as to whether the new model will make it to the North America and Europe "is not made yet".
"There needs to be some internal meetings and discussions about that," he said.
"What we do know is in North America penetration of DVD players is very close to 100 per cent, and that very few consumers - a very niche market - would ever be interested in paying extra for DVD functionality."
The Nintendo Wii will launch in North America on 19th November, with a European launch to follow on 8th December.
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November 13th, 2006, 20:47 Posted By: wraggster
After updating you with the list of games due to appear on Wii's Virtual Console last week, we've stumbled upon a bevy of shots from Golden Axe, Ecco the Dolphin, Sonic the Hedgehog, Altered Beast, Space Harrier II and more of Wii's retro catalogue.
Of course, they look identical to the past-gen originals, but if you can't be cheered up on a grey Monday with some brightly coloured classic Sega shots, then there's no help for you. Point your eyes down for the image burst.
Screens at Gamesradar
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November 13th, 2006, 20:55 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo Co., loser of the last video- game console war, said it will spend more than $200 million to market its new Wii in a bid to wrest sales away from Sony Corp.'s PlayStation 3 and Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox 360.
The advertising campaign is the biggest ever for Kyoto-based Nintendo, which begins selling Wii in the U.S. on Nov. 19., two days after Sony releases the PlayStation. Television ads beginning tomorrow will focus on Wii's ease of use and library of family- friendly games.
Nintendo and Sony are fighting to increase their share of the $20 billion worldwide video-game market. Microsoft has a head start this round after releasing its Xbox last year. Nintendo's campaign positions it in contrast to PlayStation 3, which Sony introduced Nov. 11 in Japan stressing the machine's advanced graphics and Blu-ray DVD drive that plays movies as well as games.
``Eighteen months ago most people did not expect Nintendo to be competitive in this next generation of consoles,'' said John Broady, an analyst at GameSpot.com, a unit of Cnet Networks Entertainment that tracks video-game sales.
Nintendo and Microsoft are getting some help from Tokyo-based Sony's difficulties. Sony in September said it would delay the PlayStation 3's debut in Europe until March because of parts shortages for the Blu-ray drive that have slowed production.
In Tokyo, demand for the new PlayStation outstripped supply store because Sony limited initial deliveries in Japan to 100,000. The company last month cut the machine's price to 49,980 yen ($425) from 59,800 yen after complaints from gamers.
Price Difference
At $250, the Wii also will appeal to price-conscious buyers. Sony's PlayStation 3 is aimed at serious game players, selling for $500 to $600. Xbox sells for $300 to $400.
Nintendo probably will sell about 1.5 million Wii consoles in the U.S. through the end of this year, according to Jeetil Patel, an analyst at Deutsche Bank Securities in San Francisco. He forecasts about 500,000 U.S. sales of PlayStation 3. Microsoft probably will sell 2.28 million Xbox 360s in November and December, he said.
Redmond, Washington-based Microsoft has sold more than 6 million Xbox's since its launch and estimates that will climb to 10 million by June 30.
``They're severely constrained,'' Van Baker, an analyst at market researcher Gartner Inc., said in an interview. ``The chance of getting a PS3 this holiday is pretty much non-existent.''
Targeting Adults
About 80 percent of advertising for Wii will target adults in an attempt to expand the video-game market beyond children and teens that have been Nintendo's traditional market, said George Harrison, the company's senior vice president for marketing. Nintendo will spend the $200 million during the next 12 months.
Nintendo adopted the strategy after its GameCube console lost the competition with Sony's PlayStation 2 five years ago.
Both companies plan rollouts for their new consoles that include midnight sales parties at retailers in cities including New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles.
The advertising campaign is Nintendo's most expensive, costing about 20 percent more than the rollout of GameCube in 2001, Harrison said. Nintendo came out the loser in the battle between GameCube and PlayStation 2, an experience that convinced the company to avoid trying to challenge Sony and Microsoft for the hard-core audience in the current console war, Harrison said.
GameCube
By the end of this year, Nintendo will have sold about 11.7 million GameCubes in the U.S., compared with 35.6 million units of PlayStation 2, according to Michael Pachter, an analyst at Wedbush Morgan Securities in Los Angeles. Pachter anticipates Nintendo will sell about 2 million Wii consoles by year end.
``GameCube didn't meet out expectations,'' Harrison said in an interview. ``There were lessons in there for us that led us to the Wii. The first lesson was that just trying to be like the others in the marketplace wasn't the answer.''
Pachter estimates Sony will sell about 1.5 million PlayStation 3s.
Television ads, which begin running Wednesday, will include a two-minute ``documentary'' that features grandparents and parents playing with their children.
The television ads will be the first broad-based advertising Nintendo has done. The company started pushing the console over the summer with a campaign that included parties in which consumers were asked to invite friends to their homes to play the console.
Among those asked was Bill Weatherford, who invited relatives to play in his home in Tonganoxie, Kansas. Weatherford, who had purchased an Xbox 360 weeks earlier, said he probably will buy a Wii to play with his wife and 3-year-old son.
``It had a lot more family friendly games, sports games that actually had some physical activities,'' Weatherford said in an interview. ``I just felt like you were more involved, doing more together.''
Wii features a wireless controller that enables players to control a game by waving their hands. The controller can be used as a baseball bat, tennis racquet or sword for action games.
Via Bloomberg
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November 13th, 2006, 21:00 Posted By: wraggster
Via Joystiq
A couple weeks back, the UK's Edge Magazine revealed the Wii would be getting a DVD-enhanced variant in Japan, sometime in 2007. Today, Gamasutra reports "California technology company Sonic Solutions have announced that Nintendo has chosen to use the company's software to allow a 'future version' of the Wii console to play DVD movies."
Interesting. With a DVD drive already built into every Wii, it seemed logical that a software solution was all that was needed to implement DVD playback on the Wii. Ostensibly, the reason for Nintendo's decision to not include DVD playback was the format's onerous licensing fees relative to the already high market penetration DVD players currently enjoy. Instead of releasing a "future version" of the console to the Japanese market exclusively, why not sell the DVD playback software via the console's online store to recoup the licensing fees?
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November 13th, 2006, 21:04 Posted By: wraggster
Heres the list of Wii Games in full for the release of the system this week:
- The Ant Bully
- Avatar: The Last Airbender
- Barnyard
- Call of Duty 3
- Cars
- Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2
- Excite Truck
- The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy
- GT Pro Series
- Happy Feet
- The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
- Madden NFL 07
- Marvel: Ultimate Alliance
- Metal Slug Anthology
- Monster 4x4: World Circuit
- Need for Speed Carbon
- Open Season
- Rampage: Total Destruction
- Rapala Tournament Fishing!
- Rayman: Raving Rabbids
- Red Steel
- SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab
- Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz
- Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Double Agent
- Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam
- Trauma Center: Second Opinion
- World Series of Poker: Tournament of Champions
What games excite you most ?
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November 13th, 2006, 21:12 Posted By: wraggster
Massive New gaming release for the Nintendo DS:
features
aka. Yoshi's Island 2
description
Return to the colorful wilds of Yoshi’s Island in a new platforming adventure for Nintendo DS.
A mysterious floating island has suddenly appeared over peaceful Yoshi’s Island. Soon after its arrival, a gaggle of kids vanishes from the island school. Thankfully, Baby Mario, Baby Peach, Baby Donkey Kong and Baby Wario manage to avoid being kidnapped. Now, Yoshi and the four young superstars must set out on a wild and colorful quest to rescue the kids and investigate the ominous island hovering overhead. Thanks to the power of Nintendo DS, all of the lush vistas and perilous paths of Yoshi's Island span two screens.
The Yoshis populating this wild and mysterious island take turns transporting the babies. Each baby gives Yoshi access to unique powers while they cling to his back: Baby Mario gives Yoshi speed; Baby DK gives him strength and the ability to climb vines; with her umbrella, Baby Peach gives him the ability to float high, and Baby Wario gives him magnetism (perfect for grabbing grown-up Wario's favorite things: coins!).
More info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1d83.html
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November 13th, 2006, 21:15 Posted By: wraggster
Another killer DS commercial release, heres the details:
features
Touch Screen controls! Story Mode and Attraction Mode take full advantage of the Touch Screen and stylus.
Colorful Cast of Characters! Besides everybody’s favorite, the classic Bomberman, there are tons of interesting characters to interact with.
Up to 8-Player Wireless Single-Card Play! Attraction Mode and the Battle Mode both support multiplayer action with only one Game Card required!
Incredible longevity! A 15-hour Story Mode, 36 stages in the Attraction Mode, and 20 stages in the Battle Mode.
description
Bomberman™ Land Touch! is a family-friendly action-adventure packed with explosive excitement! In the Story Mode, explore Bomber Island while solving unique puzzles, chatting with rival characters, and engaging in 36 different one-to-four-player “attractions” with action, racing, sports, and other themes. In Attraction Mode, enjoy any of the attractions you’ve unlocked in the Story Mode. In the Battle Mode, play classic multiplayer Bomberman with two to eight players via Wireless Single-Card or Multi-Card Play, or two to four players via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.
More Info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1mlb.html
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November 13th, 2006, 21:22 Posted By: wraggster
Another big release for the DS:
As the latest and most advanced game based on the popular Digimon brand, Digimon World DS has been exclusively developed for Nintendo DS thus fully taking advantage of the hand held platform’s versatile functionalities. In the game, you will assume a role of Digimon tamer and embark on an exciting journey to discover, tame, raise, train and command over 230 unique Digimons. Unlike many of the character collection driven games in the past, the true fun of Digimon World DS begins when collection is completed. You will be able to build Digi-Farms to raise, evolve and communicate with your Digimons. You will also be able to exchange Digimons, engage in online battles and together create rare kinds of Digimon with your friends via Wi-Fi and local DS wireless connection. This is the evolution of Digimon games.
More info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1mlc.html
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November 13th, 2006, 21:24 Posted By: wraggster
New GBA Game release:
features
Daily Puzzle: 365 days worth of new puzzles for year round entertainment!
Featuring 3 new types of tiles: Hurdle, Solid, and Joker Tiles for challenging new game play!
Create up to 100 new puzzles and challenge your friends! ·All new color feature allows tiles to come to life!
description
As a new and improved tile-flipping puzzler, Polarium Advance, for the Game Boy® Advance, offers all new features that sharpen the brain and accelerate reflexes. Fans of Polarium Advance’s predecessor, Polarium DS, will notice you can now use the control pad to move the cursor and also switch to new color schemes…no more black and white! In addition, Polarium Advance has improved playability by utilizing the action buttons and control pad as opposed to only using a stylus! So easy, you can play with only one hand… perfect for gamers on the go! Polarium Advance also features a totally new variety of tiles, making it one of the trickiest, skill-filled, puzzle games of all time!
More info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1mm8.html
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November 13th, 2006, 23:05 Posted By: wraggster
In 2005, when Nintendo unveiled its next-generation gaming console, the company revealed that the project's internal code name was "Revolution." Now that it's set to hit U.S stores on Nov. 19, the box will sell, oddly, as the Wii--pronounced "we." But Revolution remains a better fit.
To compete with Sony'sPS3, Xbox 360, Nintendo has re-invented videogaming, making it more social, more intuitive and surprisingly physically engaging. The Wii is indeed revolutionary, and it's potentially the device that will make videogaming as widely enjoyed as board or card games.
The feature that sets the Wii apart from both its competitors and its ancestors is the Wii remote, the device's control pad. Instead of a bulky, button-studded joystick, Nintendo has produced a slim wand that looks like a television remote control. It's connected to the console wirelessly, and more important, it's equipped with an innovative motion sensor that detects movement and rotation in three dimensions.
Full Article at Forbes
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November 13th, 2006, 23:46 Posted By: wraggster
Heres the full list of new releases in the USA this week:
DS releases:
Asphalt: Urban GT 2
Bionicle Heroes
Bomberman Land: Touch!
Brain Boost: Beta Wave
Brain Boost: Gamma Wave
Charlotte's Web
Digimon World DS
Eragon
Final Fantasy III
Gunpey
Happy Feet
Monster Bomber
Rayman Raving Rabbids
Spider-Man: Battle for New York
Tamagotchi Connection: Corner Shop 2
Tomb Raider: Legend
Totally Spies! 2: Undercover
Yoshi's Island 2
GBA releases:
Bionicle Heroes
Charlotte's Web
Eragon
F-24: Stealth Fighter
Happy Feet
March of the Penguins
Polarium Advanced
Sonic the Hedgehog Genesis
Spider-Man: Battle for New York
Super Robot Taisen 2
Tomb Raider: Legend
Tonka on the Job
Totally Spies! 2: Undercover
Yggdra Union
All can be brought at Amazon.Com
Via dsfanboy
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November 13th, 2006, 23:47 Posted By: wraggster
Via DSfanboy
We loves us some Final Fantasy. Character customization, turn-based battles and emotional conflicts are the kinds of things that make our mouth water. So perhaps you could call Final Fantasy III a delicious steak dinner. Or, if it's more your thing, a large slice of chocolate cake. We've never had this steak dinner before, nor have we gobbled down this slice of chocolate cake (accompanied by a cup of milk, natch). And, if the critics are to be believed, this steak dinner is very delicious.
1UP - 80%: "Hardcore RPG players may enjoy it more than modern Final Fantasy titles, thanks to its emphasis on skill development and combat. Casual players may find themselves surprised by how addictive simple level-grinding and monster-slaying can be. There's a certain satisfaction in seeing your juiced-up Monk land 28 hits in a single round, and FFIII delivers that thrill in spades -- and there's enough challenge to make it a necessity rather than overkill. The result is one of the best portable RPGs to date, and a fine example of how to remake a classic."
Electronic Gaming Monthly - 78%: "The game's addictive job system makes plowing through the fun battles worthwhile." [Dec. 2006, p.152]
Those numbers aren't too shabby. Are these better or worse than the review scores you anticipated? Also, note that we will update the post when more current reviews are posted online as the only other available outlets reviewed Japanese import copies.
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November 13th, 2006, 23:54 Posted By: wraggster
Octobinz has posted a new WIP Release called Lirha of his End of the Shadows RPG for the Nintendo DS.
Collision map is not ended.
About MMO, a big part of the server is almost done (but still job to do) and looks like a nice 3-tiers small compressed packets server.
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November 14th, 2006, 00:02 Posted By: wraggster
Mollusk and Daydream posted this news/release:
Here comes the first official release of Ciruclar Defense, the latest homebrew I finished with DayDream… The graphics he provided are great (as always ^^). I won’t detail the gameplay, as it’s in the star wars-like intro, so you’ll just have to read that…
Be aware that I haven’t been able to find a decent emulator to play this game : DeSmuME is slow and doesn’t have sprite rotations, No$GBA is even slower on this one, and stylus got really buggy, so you can’t actually use the different colors ^^ But the DS plays it perfectly, so that’s the way to go…
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November 14th, 2006, 02:21 Posted By: wraggster
New from SuccessHK
Barbie in the 12 Dancing Princesses is the story of Barbie as Genevieve, 1 of 12 sisters who live happily with their father the king. Concerned that the high-spirited, independent princesses need more structure to become proper princesses, the king invites his cousin, the Dutchess Rowena to move into the castle. Rather than help, Rowina forbids the sisters from singing and dancing and squelches their individuality. The princesses discover a magical enchanted world and escape the tyranny of Rowena. But when Genevieve learns that their father's life is in danger, the sisters must unite to save the king and their kingdom.
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November 14th, 2006, 07:35 Posted By: wraggster
A new Major gaming release for the Nintendo DS comes in the shape of this news from SuccessHK
Castlevania: Portrait Of Ruin brings back the award winning action exploration gameplay that has held fans captive for 2 decades! Take control of two heroes, Jonathan Morris, a vampire killer and his close friend Charlotte Orlean, a girl with tremendous magical ability. Amidst the chaos of World War II, two mysterious sisters emerge working to resurrect Dracula and David and Charlotte are all that stand in their way.
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November 14th, 2006, 21:28 Posted By: wraggster
Call of Duty 3 on the Wii may lack the grunt of the 360 version in the graphics department, but it adds to the game with some of the coolest motion-controlled scenarios we've seen on Wii, and you can see them all in this trailer.
As well as the pointer-style control for the shooting sections, you will be turning the controller like a wheel to steer a car, using the controller as an oar to row a boat, pushing the controllers forward to wrestle with enemies and various other clever applications.
If you're looking forward to getting stuck into CoD3, you'll be pleased to know that the sequel is already in the pipeline, and new rumours are beginning to surface. According to Amped IGO, a source close to CoD4 developers Infinity Ward has revealed that the game will abandon the WWII setting, instead being based in a modern setting.
The game is also rumoured to have a new, more detailed damage detection system that will be accurate enough to shoot off an opponent's ear. Sounds nice. The anonymous source also claims the multiplayer will allow for 54 players, and that it will appear on the PC as well as consoles, although nothing has been confirmed.
Call of Duty 3 is a December 8 launch game on Wii. Look out for the review next week.
Trailer Here
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November 14th, 2006, 21:32 Posted By: wraggster
Via CVG
Mobiles.co.uk is tempting customers with what must be one of the best free promotional gifts we've ever seen for a mobile phone - a free Wii.
We had a good look at their website and even called them up for a quick chat on the hunt for that crucial catch, but there doesn't seem to be one.
You sign up for one of a selected range of contract tariffs and when the Wii comes out, you get one.
Of course, you can't then cancel your phone contract; you have to keep the phone and pay the monthly charges for a set term, but that's hardly a catch when they cost around £20 to £30 per month - which is what we're all paying for our phones now.
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November 14th, 2006, 22:05 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo is throwing money at the marketing of its Wii console, promising another 10 billion Yen (EUR 66 million) for promotions in a bid to convince Japanese consumers of its place in the next-generation gaming market.
The company is expected to spend 68 billion Yen in total this year, according to a report on the Financial Times website.
The marketing campaign will incorporate ten different television ads, retail-specific demonstration booths and Wii Experience shows for consumers, to be held at conference halls throughout the country.
Nintendo has made a big noise about its attempts to attract the entire family unit to gaming via the Wii, and is promising 400,000 consoles for the Japanese launch on December 2nd. In contrast, it's main rival in the region, Sony, launched the PlayStation 3 last weekend and sold out of its 88,400 units.
The firm has also put a marketing campaign in place for North America, including demonstrations in the home via a year long Wii Ambassador Program, kiosks on shopping malls across the region and partnerships with retailer 7-Eleven and Comedy Central.
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November 14th, 2006, 22:14 Posted By: wraggster
As unfortunate as it sounds to hardcore gamers, the next-gen war may not ultimately be decided by software or hardware, but marketing. Nintendo has prepared for such an instance, announcing that it will spend nearly $200 million promoting the console over the next year, the most expensive campaign ever initiated by the company.
Part of that multimillion dollar budget will be on display tonight, as the first Wii ad hits North American televisions. The 30-second spot, set to air during ABC's celebrity hoedown Dancing With the Stars, is the first of four ads in a series dubbed "Wii would like to play."
The ads depict a pair of Japanese men who show off the capabilities of the console to households across the US. The spots were directed by Stephen Gaghan, the Oscar-award-winning scribe of Traffic and director of Syriana.
All four ads will be aired sequentially during MTV's Sucker Free on November 15. The Wii launches in North America on November 19.
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November 14th, 2006, 22:23 Posted By: wraggster
After confusion arose yesterday from news that some Virtual Console games "can only be played with a Classic controller", according to Wii's instruction manual, Nintendo has explained the situation, as it currently stands, to GamesRadar.
GameCube pads will be the only way to control GameCube games, which can be played as normal with your existing game discs. You must also use GameCube memory cards, and cannot save to Wii's internal memory or SD memory card.
GameCube pads can also be used to play any NES, SNES and N64 titles downloaded from Wii's Virtual Console, although N64 games will not feature rumble capability.
The Wii-mote can be used as a controller for all NES and PC Engine/Turbografx games on Virtual Console. Finally - and obviously - all games on Nintendo's Virtual Console will be playable with Nintendo's Classic controller.
A sliver of good news is that multiplayer games can be mix-and-match. A NES game could be played by one person with a Wii-mote, one with a GameCube pad and a third gamer using a Classic controller, for instance; or a SNES game with two people using the Classic controller and two more using GameCube pads.
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November 14th, 2006, 22:35 Posted By: wraggster
Puns aside, one of the more adult orientated Wii games set for iminent release is that of Spike's Necro-Nesia. It's a survival horror game set on an island filled with abnormally large wildlife. The player has lost their girlfriend to the chitinous fangs o' doom and has to use a mixture of torchlight and a machete to make their way through the sinister horde.
It's fair to say that the screenshots fill me with horror but not in the way the developers probably intended (plus gameplay impressions elsewhere haven't been great). On a partial upside the official site does hold host to a rather nice animated comic.
The game is released in Japan on the 2nd December for 7,140 yen.
More Info
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November 14th, 2006, 22:38 Posted By: wraggster
The original Yoshi's Island has attained G.O.A.T. status. True, not everyone agrees that it's the single-greatest 2D platformer ever, but SNES's Yoshi's Island certainly ranks among the best. Now, more than a decade later, Nintendo has finally published a true sequel (we don't count N64's Yoshi's Story). But with Artoon (responsible for GBA's ill-received Yoshi Topsy Turvy) sharing development duties, there's been some doubt about Yoshi's Island DS's ability to escape the shadow of its heralded predecessor.
GameSpot (91/100) - "It's hard to top a masterpiece, but that's just what Nintendo and Artoon have done with Yoshi's Island DS."
IGN (80/100) - "Perhaps the designers stuck too close to the established design in this new game, since it really ruins a lot of the surprises if you've already played through the original ... [Yoshi's Island DS] runs into the problem of not doing enough to make it its own game."
EGM (68/100) - "I'd never choose this over the sublime original."
Current overall average: 83/100 (6 reviews)
Via Joystiq
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November 14th, 2006, 22:40 Posted By: wraggster
$175 for a t-shirt? Really? We suppose being deemed worthy for high fashion is a cultural milestone, but a grotesquely overpriced t-shirt seems to clash with Nintendo's thrifty image. Given the shirt's cost in relationship to Wii's asking price, Dolce & Gabbana's forthcoming PlayStation 3 tee should only set you back $420.
Screen of the Tshirt via Comments
via joystiq
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November 14th, 2006, 22:43 Posted By: wraggster
Last Friday, Nintendo's new $250 videogame console arrived and in spite of being an admitted non-gamer, I was giddy with anticipation. I actually caught myself dancing a little jig. That evening, my wife and I were in the family room with another couple. My friend Chris and I got to work, connecting the Wii (pronounced "we" not "why") to a 42-inch Philips LCD TV, while the womenfolk looked on with politely condescending curiosity.
Wii Sports, a collection of cartoonish tennis, baseball, bowling, golf and boxing scenarios, comes with the system. I had presumed that it was merely an elaborate demonstration of the Wii Remote, which responds to natural motions rather than arcane button combinations. I discovered quickly that it might be the greatest videogame ever made.
Chris and I cleared a decent amount of space between the couch and the TV-the need for playing room cannot be overstated. We selected Tennis for two players. The TV's wide screen split into two frames, one for each side of the court. I tossed the ball in the air with a tap of a button, then swung my arm. A perfect serve. Chris returned the serve with a flick of his wrist, then I swung again. Early clumsiness fast became aggressive, aerobic, precise gesticulation. You develop a forehand, a backhand, even an overhead smash, just like on the real courts, and you work up a sweat doing it. Each time the virtual racquet hits the ball, it delivers an unbelievably satisfying "thok."
Looking on, my wife couldn't remember the last time she saw something as silly as two dudes jumping around, waving their arms and strutting like Agassi at a Grand Slam. But since the controls were so simple, she wasn't allowed to refuse when we told her it was her turn. Before long, she was channeling Steffi with her own fancy net work. I had my revenge.
The following night we hosted a dinner party. Though it was conceived without an inkling that the Wii would be in our midst, it became the official activity of the night. We designed hilarious avatars for each partygoer, so they could play games using a cartoon mini-self, or Mii. By selecting and adjusting face shapes, eyes, noses and hairstyles, you can build accurate caricatures, but beware of false friends who make your nose two sizes too big, or attach a sinister handlebar mustache to your otherwise handsome mug.
Everyone sampled all five Wii Sports. Tennis is still my favorite, but my wife got into the more cerebral Golf, achieving victories on the Wii what she was unable to deliver during her high-school golf-team years. Bowling probably came in third place, though Baseball and Boxing found fans. By the end of the weekend, the little machine had hooked ten people of very different temperaments and interests. Only one among us, Chris, was a bonafide gaming guy, and his years of button mashing didn't give him an unnatural advantage over anyone else. Excited as I was about my own attraction to the Wii, I was stunned by its universal appeal.
My zeal is directed mainly at Wii Sports. The Wii Channels network for weather, shopping and even surfing the Web, had not yet launched, and other games, such as Legend of Zelda title and Excite Truck, looked okay but didn't hook me. My hope is that Nintendo continues to develop games like Wii Sports—it's easy to dream up Wii versions of other activities, from fishing to snowmobiling.
Although the pull of the Wii is strong, I should point out a few issues that you should know. For starters, although the basic Wii system costs $250 and comes with Wii Sports, you absolutely have to buy a second Wii Remote ($40), along with its Nunchuk joystick attachment ($20).
Also, widescreen HDTVs are much better for split-screen two-person gaming, though paradoxically the Wii's video is only standard definition. For Wii Sports, this doesn't matter much, but it's a shame that Zelda and other visual titles don't get the high-definition treatment they deserve.
Finally, all this physical activity has a downside. As thrilled as I am that I now can play videogames in lieu of other aerobic exercise, I am sore. It may be the good soreness of muscles in need of a long-overdue workout, yet I fear that some people might get real tennis elbow from Wii's virtual Tennis, or even tear a rotator cuff when pitching in Wii's Baseball.
I encourage you to go out and get one, even if you're also planning to buy Microsoft's Xbox 360 or Sony's PlayStation 3. Just be careful, because Wii is physical.
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November 14th, 2006, 23:10 Posted By: wraggster
News from Play Asia:
Weekly Special: Star Fox DS (aka. Star Fox Command) for Nintendo DS™ at US$ 19.90 only - offer valid for 1 week
From the publisher: Star Fox returns to its roots with a blistering space shooter on Nintendo DS. In this latest installment of the franchise, Fox and his crew have disbanded after saving the Lylat system more times than you can shake a stick. But, from the depths of the planet, Venom, the Anglar have launched a full assault on Corneria and the outer sectors.
Now, Fox McCloud, must reunite his old friends, and defeat the Anglar emperor's plans for total domination.
Star Fox Command features intuitive piloting using the stylus pen. Simply drag the stylus in the direction you want to fly your Arwing. It may take a little getting used to at first, but once you get the hang of it, blasting enemy squadrons and pulling high-G turns, is pretty exciting.
Star Fox DS (aka. Star Fox Command outside of Japan) is now available at discounted US$ 19.90 only.
Game features:
Lylat needs help. Players hop into their Arwing fighter and fight through a unique branching storyline of missions, all rendered in gorgeous 3-D.
Star Fox Command brings a whole new strategic element to the series with a commander's view of the mission. Using the touch screen, players can draw the routes they and their teammates will take, then battle the enemies they encounter as they take over bases and strategically advance across the map.
Players can blow their friends out of the sky as they dogfight with up to eight players over a local wireless connection or take on up to four players from around the world on Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.
As usually, this weekly special is valid for exactly 1 week (if not sold out earlier) and this time limited to a maximum purchase of 2 units per customer. As a small restriction, please also notice that you cannot use any further discount coupons along with this special offer.
More Info --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...9-en-84-n.html
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November 14th, 2006, 23:47 Posted By: wraggster
JimmyL posted this news/release:
One new game, one updated game and one bug fix.
I threw in the board and enough pieces for a game of Go. This is only a "beginner" 9x9 board, since the game is sprite based and I only have room for 128 sprites.
I also updated the deck of cards with some oversized poker chips(I'll have to redraw them), and added a shuffle button that won't reset the chips. That table is a bit of a mess, with the chips seperated into four equal 'stacks'... so you'll probably have to push them aside when starting a game. I'll clean it up when I make smaller chips.
And finally, I fixed a client side crash bug that occured when a client was moving an object around as the host changed the game type.
.
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November 14th, 2006, 23:50 Posted By: wraggster
Infantile Paralysiser have posted a new release of his image viewer for the Nintendo DS:
'When the START button is pushed in the IPK file selection mode, the slide show is begun directly.
The folder of the same name as IPK is performed in the slide show. (retrieval order example.ipk->example/*.mp3->example.mp3->imgview.mp3->NoBGM)
The BGM setting page was added to the slide show setting screen.
When M3/EZ4 is used, two screen (open wide) mode can be used. Added toggle icon.
The single screen crossing fade effect was added in the slide show.
'
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November 15th, 2006, 00:03 Posted By: wraggster
Via DSfanboy
How does Naruto rate such incredible graphics? Yeah, we know, loads of people read, watch, and love Naruto, and that's fine; we support a love of ninja goodness in all things. But licensed games are just supposed to be there for our entertainment. Oh, we don't mean the gameplay. They're supposed to be, y'know, bad. It's a rule. But you know how those mischievous teenage ninjas can be. They don't like rules. They like violence and hey! So do we. So it's convenient that this game is going to be all about kicking ass.
The original video at Jeux France is definitely higher quality, but a version popped up on YouTube (just some color fading, not losing a lot) that we've embedded after the jump. Watch it here, watch it there, watch it anywhere -- just don't miss it.
Video Here --> http://youtube.com/watch?v=xA9HrhxBCD0
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November 15th, 2006, 00:15 Posted By: wraggster
Smealum has updated his awesome looking Doom Type game for the Nintendo DS, heres the full translated info:
14/11/2006: Still small a update… It adds some corrections, as the rotation of the enemies (who before “rotationaient” around their left higher corner (for top)….now they rotationnent well around their medium ) and ESPECIALLY, it is now possible to kill the enemies with pump rifle!
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November 15th, 2006, 03:13 Posted By: gotmilk0112
it was on "Dancing with the stars" commercial break around 8:46 PM
note: you might have to turn up your volume. :thumbup:
i was having troubl with the format so heres a link to download it:
its only 3mb so dont worry
AND you also might have to right-click the download link that says Host-A.net and click save as cuz the mirror didnt work for me for some reason 
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November 15th, 2006, 15:38 Posted By: Darksaviour69
Nintendo will offer (over) four times as many machines as Sony when it launches its Wii console in Japan on 2 December.
The Japanese video game maker said it will ship almost 400,000 units of its Wii console, compared to 100,000 (actually closer it 90,000) for Sony's PlayStation 3.
However Nintendo has not said how many consoles it will make available in the US where the Wii debuts on 19 November.
The launch of the Wii will see the big games makers Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo going head to head.
The Wii, the Xbox 360 and the PS3 will compete for attention on the shelves this Christmas.
bbc news
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November 15th, 2006, 20:18 Posted By: wraggster
New from Divineo China
Easy to set up, this wifi headphone includes a microphone for high quality voice communication on Nintendo DS and Nintendo DS Lite. The ear piece is fully adjustable for high comfort.
- Easy set-up
- High sensitivity wi-fi voice communication
- Designed for NDS and NDS Lite games
- Earphone includes soft cotton for user protection
- Microphone can be bent to fit perfectly
- Ear holder can be adjusted to be used on left or right ear
- High speed stereo or mono sound signal transmission
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November 15th, 2006, 20:21 Posted By: wraggster
New from Divineo China
This ultra complete accessories pack for Nintendo DS Lite provides you all you will need to enhance your NDS Lite gaming experience!
It features accessories for protection, power, control, carrying, sound and cleaning!
Pack contains:
- 2 * Guard Mask
- 1 * Car lighter power adapter
- 1 *USB power charge cable
- 3 * Stereo ear phones
- 12 * game card case
- 4 * touch pen (plastic, aluminum and copper)
- 1 * wrist wrap
- 4 * 3-layers silicon soft protective seal for upper and lower screen with soft paper card and cleaning cloth
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November 15th, 2006, 20:23 Posted By: wraggster
New from Divineo China
The Crystal Protect Box for Nintendo DS Lite offers real strong protection with a hard transparent case. Available in multiple colors, it is also a stylish case that perfectly fits your NDS Lite design to keep dimension low while offering shock protection.
- Super hard transparent storage box
- Clever compact size design
- Protects against scratches and shock
- Made with high resistance silicon material
- Available in 5 colors: Ice Blue, Noble Pink, Pearl White, Enamel Navy, Charcoal Black
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November 15th, 2006, 20:55 Posted By: wraggster
This trailer of Sonic the Hedgehog Genesis, a GBA version of the spiny mascot's original outing, shows the 15-year-old Sega game to be as good as ever - just hit the movies tab to see it for yourself.
You'll be taken on a supersonic trip through the entire first act of the Green Hill zone, complete with Buzz bombers, Crabmeats, Motobugs and Newtrons - the classic enemies developer Sonic Team abandoned all too quickly in later games of the franchise.
The beautiful stylised graphics look thankfully untouched, although some of the sound effects seem different, especially when Sonic releases a Flicky from its robot shell. The spin dash attack (which wasn't introduced until later Sonic games) is also evident, although you can switch it off if you want to stay true to Sonic's first outing.
News and Trailer at Gamesradar
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November 15th, 2006, 21:02 Posted By: wraggster
Next-Gen reports that shares of Nintendo are fetching 26,770 yen ($227) a piece which is an all-time high for Mario Inc. The company can pretty much thank their DS portable that continues to sell extremely well, success that the market views as an indication of Wii's selling potential.
Will the console meet mass expectations? The countdown clock is ticking.
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November 15th, 2006, 22:26 Posted By: wraggster
New preorder from SuccessHK
Product Features of Nintendo Wii Wii AV Cable
High quality cable included
Stereo sound
Suitable for most video devices
More Description of Nintendo Wii Wii AV Cable
Improved standard graphics
S-Video and composite video cable
Stereo sound
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November 15th, 2006, 22:28 Posted By: wraggster
New preorder from SuccessHK
Product Features of Nintendo Wii Wii Component Cable
High quality cable included
High definition games
Resolution Upgrade
Multiple HD modes: 480p, 576p, 720p, 1080i
Superior picture quality
More Description of Nintendo Wii Wii Component Cable
Play Wii games in High Definition on your HDTV.
High resolution graphics
Ideal for HDTV
Stereo sound
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November 15th, 2006, 23:58 Posted By: wraggster
via DSfanboy
As the next puzzler from Q? Entertainment, many looked to Gunpey DS to repeat the success of Lumines and Meteos. Once again, Q? Entertainment combine music with an incredible visual style to create a unique gaming experience. That experience, however, doesn't seem to be all that well-received by critics, as most of the reviews in now are pretty low. Any readers pick this game up and wish to comment?
1UP - 85%: "If you're looking for a more full-featured game, with greater variety -- and don't mind the cartoony milieu of Gunpey DS -- then you will find this version not only a superior value, but a superior game."
Games Radar - 70%: "Disappointment about the lack of groundbreaking invention aside, Gunpey is a fun and intellectually interesting workout for your brain. If you're sick of falling blocks, or just need some new challenge to wrap the grey matter around, give it a go."
Nintendo Power - 65%: "It's easy to achieve proficiency in the game, and so difficult to fail, you may find that your skill and your interest in the game plateau quickly." [Dec. 2006, p.106]
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November 16th, 2006, 00:00 Posted By: wraggster
Via Siliconera
Scientific journal, National Geographic’s sub division National Geographic Ventures, is teaming up with Destination Software to make games based on National Geographic’s films. One game is based on the March of the Penguins movie and it is coming out later this month for the DS and Game Boy Advance. Not exactly exciting news, but the “Sea Monsters” Wii game sounds interesting. It is based on a film of the same name premiering in 2007. Since the film is about aquatic and extinct monsters what kind of gameplay can we expect from a Sea Monsters game? Fishing for Astraspis? Or better yet maybe we will get to play as a Plesiasaur and use the Wii remote to mimic swimming motions. Sea Monsters also comes out for the DS and Playstation 2, but it’s doubtful those games will have virtual swimming controls.
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November 16th, 2006, 00:02 Posted By: wraggster
Via DSfanboy
Turns out that Japan will be getting a special edition of Gyakuten Saiban 4, which is Phoenix Wright 4 to us English-speaking people. The special edition pack-in is an encyclopedia cartridge that reviews all of Phoenix's previous cases. It also contains all of the background music so you can listen at your leisure. Of course, our desire for such an extra is nonexistent as we haven't played any of the games beyond the first, but we have a feeling the Japanese will eat this up.
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November 16th, 2006, 00:05 Posted By: wraggster
Via Nextgen
Final Fantasy house Square Enix has revised its fiscal first half forecasts upward thanks to a tax adjustment and the CGI movie Final Fantasy VII Advent Children.
According to a company statement, the Tokyo-based game company said that it expects 3.3 billion yen ($27.9 million) in consolidated net income for the six-month period ended September 30, 2006. The revision represents a 32 percent increase from the previous forecast. Sales forecasts were up marginally half a percent to 75.9 billion yen ($642.9 million).
The increase in net income forecasts was due to "an adjustment in the amount of deferred income taxes associated with consolidated accounting," while higher than expected licensing income for Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children drove up net sales expectations.
This most recent revision follows another adjustment Square Enix had made in recent weeks. In late October, the company decreased its net income expectations down nearly 17 percent and its net sales up 11 percent from the prior forecast.
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November 16th, 2006, 00:07 Posted By: wraggster
sgstair posted this news:
Hi everyone, it’s been a while, but here are my priorities in the homebrew realm for the immediate future. I’m going to disappoint some of you, sorry - but this is how it has to be.
The DSWifi project is going to be discontinued for the time being, until sometime next year. I’m not going to go into more detail on why, but I will not be continuing to work on it for now. I would like to turn it over to an individual or group of people if anyone would like to maintain it - if you’d like to do this, get in contact with me (on IRC, or leave a comment, or send an email…)
I will be starting a new project to reverse engineer the Wii’s wireless hardware, and build a new library based on it. This is expected to start around the start of december, and run a few months (who knows how long it will take)
The DSTunnel project is currently inactive, but I will make an attempt to revive it later this year, I would like to first complete the Wii wifi library, and I may actually build DSTunnel directly for the wii, or at least as one of the supported platforms.
I have 2 undisclosed DS projects that I will be working on… you’ll just have to wait and see what they are
Beyond all that, I have a few other general purpose libraries (besides the 802.11 and TCP/IP libs) that I’m going to start on at some arbitrary time (FAT lib, crypto lib, and some others) and a few emulator projects I want to work on.
So, that’s what my schedule looks like for the next several months - I now await your kind comments and harsh criticism
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November 16th, 2006, 00:25 Posted By: wraggster
Via IGN
Square Enix announced today that the much-anticipated RPG remake Final Fantasy III has shipped to retailers across North America. Previously released only in Japan for the Famicom (Nintendo Entertainment System in America), Final Fantasy III is finally hitting U.S. shores exclusively for the Nintendo DS.
"Until now, FINAL FANTASY III has seen no remakes or appearances on other platforms since its original release on the Nintendo Entertainment System in April 1990," said Hiromichi Tanaka, Director and Executive Producer for FINAL FANTASY III. "Due to the game's age, a direct port might seem a bit dated, but now FINAL FANTASY III has been made anew on the sensational Nintendo DS platform, including new graphics in 3D, rebalanced jobs, and brand-new characterization for the four young heroes, who are now more dynamic than ever. As the only game in the FINAL FANTASY series that had not previously been localized, we are very pleased to finally bring FINAL FANTASY III across the ocean to players in North America. We hope that not only FINAL FANTASY fans, but a wide variety of players in North America enjoy the new FINAL FANTASY III."
Final Fantasy III for the Nintendo DS makes extensive use of the system's unique capabilities. Players can use the stylus to explore dungeons, dispatch foes, and cast spells intuitively. Furthermore, gamers can take advantage of the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection to access the Mognet and communicate with other players as well as NPCs in an effort to uncover hidden dungeons, quests, and items.
FINAL FANTASY III is rated E 10+ (Everyone 10+) by the ESRB and will be available at North American retailers for a suggested price of $39.99.
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November 16th, 2006, 00:26 Posted By: wraggster
The fastest selling DS game of all time in Japan was once New Super Mario Bros. And then, Pokemon Diamond & Pearl saw release. According to a recent update on one of our favorite retailer blogs, it took just 46 days for the highly anticipated DS (dual SKU) RPG to reach the 3,000,000 mark, beating out the previous record holder, Mario.
Pokemon is the third DS game to reach triple platinum status in Japan, joining Mario and Animal Crossing. In contrast, the PlayStation 2 has seen just one game reach the coveted sales mark.
But Pokemon isn't the only thing that's selling on the DS. Nintendo's Common Sense Training game recently passed the 400,000 mark. Kirby, which was just released last week, has already topped the 200,000 mark.
Nintendo plans on shipping 1.5 million DS Lite units in December alone to Japan, according to this retailer. That probably won't be enough.
Via IGN
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November 16th, 2006, 17:19 Posted By: wraggster
These new screens will give you a good idea of just how huge the courses in Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam really are.
Although they're admittedly not the most detailed graphics we've ever seen on Wii, the geometry of these courses is pretty cool, especially considering you can skate and grind on almost everything you see, including rooftops and overhead rails - as also shown in these screens. One shot shows a player having leaped so high off a ramp that you can see the whole level in the background.
There's some two-player action in there too, with the final game set to include a number of multiplayer gameplay scenarios aside from the usual race mode.
Screens Here
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November 16th, 2006, 17:31 Posted By: wraggster
The Wii will hit stores in America this Sunday, along with 20 titles for gamers to get stuck into.
We've had the list of games due for release before Christmas for some time, but Nintendo has now confirmed which of those will land on day one, and they are:
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
Wii Sports (Packaged with every Wii)
EXCITE TRUCK
Call of Duty 3
Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam
Marvel Ultimate Alliance
Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2
Trauma Center: Second Opinion
Madden NFL '07
Rampage: Total Destruction
Happy Feet
The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy
Avatar: The Last Airbender
Cars
SpongeBob SquarePants: The Creature from the Krusty Krab
Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz
GT Pro Series
Monster 4X4 World Circuit
Rayman Raving Rabbids
Red Steel
The following games will become available in the US in the five weeks following this weekend's launch:
Rapala Tournament Fishing
World Series of Poker: Tournament of Champions
Chicken Little: Ace in Action
Need for Speed: Carbon
Elebits
Konami; The Ant Bully
Metal Slug Anthology
Super Swing Golf
Barnyard
Far Cry: Vengeance
Open Season
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Double Agent
Ice Age 2: The Meltdown
Nintendo will also make a total of 30 retro games available for download though the Virtual Console feature on Wii, giving early adopters plenty to be getting on with. Perplexed as to which games to get this Christmas?
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November 16th, 2006, 18:20 Posted By: wraggster
Via Gamesindustry
Nintendo has declined to confirm whether a new version of the Wii with DVD playback feature will go on sale outside of Japan - despite a "worldwide agreement" with tech provider Sonic.
Plans to launch the new model were first announced last month, with Nintendo suggesting it was unlikely the machine would make it to the US and Europe.
But earlier this week, digital media software company Sonic Solution confirmed that its CinePlayer CE DVD Navigator will be included in the new Wii, which is due to arrive "in the latter half of 2007".
Now a Sonic spokesperson has told GamesIndustry.biz that it has signed a "worldwide agreement" with Nintendo, stating, "In terms of the specific details of the relationship, Sonic provides an SDK, which Nintendo users to incorporate DVD playback into their system.
"As the enabler of technology in Wii, Sonic does not define the implementation. Sonic provided Nintendo with its DVD playback SDK, which will be integrated by them to their specifications."
A spokesperson for Nintendo UK said, "We have previously confirmed that an enhanced version of Wii capable of playing DVD's would launch at some point in the future in Japan.
"This release simply confirms Sonic as the partner in that venture and that the new version of Wii will come to market in the second half of 2007. It does not confirm where it will launch. We are simply not making any further region specific announcements at this time."
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November 16th, 2006, 18:24 Posted By: wraggster
Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto has revealed that Nintendo initially intended its next-gen console to go on sale for under US $100 - but certain features pushed up the price.
Speaking in an interview with Business Week Miyamoto said, "Originally, I wanted a machine that would cost $100. My idea was to spend nothing on the console technology so all the money could be spent on improving the interface and software.
"If we hadn't used NAND flash memory and other pricey parts, we might have succeeded," he added.
At first Nintendo "didn't think it was possible to build a powerful machine for less than 50,000 Yen" (330 Euro), and there were concerns about power consumption, cooling systems and boot-up time.
In the end, "We had to compromise on graphics and give up on a powerful chip," Miyamoto conceded.
"Many of our employees initially wanted high-definition graphics. But they agreed with us that graphics wouldn't matter if the games weren't fun to play." However, Miyamoto observed, the Wii is "much faster" than the GameCube.
He explained that much of the thinking behind the Wii came from trying to imagine what would convince mothers to buy a console for their kids - "We talked about basic concepts and goals, not about the technical specifications of the console.
"Our goal was to come up with a machine that moms would want - easy to use, quick to start up, not a huge energy drain, and quiet while it was running," Miyamoto said.
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November 16th, 2006, 18:35 Posted By: wraggster
This new trailer for The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess illustrates how Wii's motion-sensitive controller is used during Link's latest outing - hit the movies tab to see the gameplay demo. And if you fancy reading more about how the motion-sensitive method works out, check our recent preview.
Set to launch alongside Wii when it touches down on 8 December, Twilight Princess will be an interesting prospect for any long-term pad users, although for new gamers it might offer an accessible way into Zelda's magically charming world. We'll have a review up soon enough, so keep your eyes peeled for the verdict
News and New trailer at Gamesradar
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November 16th, 2006, 18:36 Posted By: wraggster
This fresh batch of images from Wii-bound Sonic adventure, Sonic and the Secret Rings, gives us more views of the spiky one's towering dinosaur enemies, and hints at the sort of high-speed platforming we'll be racing through when the game's released next spring.
With a spiny T-Rex-like beast lunging over Sonic's path and a stampede of newly spotted Triceratops-ish dinos hurtling after him, we're guessing that Secret Rings will see us outrunning, dodging and hiding from these extinction-defying giants - possibly in chase sequences like the Killer Whale sprint in Sonic Adventure.
Also, with Sonic atop a drifting log in some of the images, expect more Sonic Adventure comparisons. Both Adventure games featured some brillo snowboarding moments (or streetboarding in SA2's case) so we're looking forward to some log-mounted rapid riding from Sonic and the Secret Rings.
Screens Here
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November 16th, 2006, 18:37 Posted By: wraggster
As Nintendo never fails to inform us, Wii is a console aimed at hunting down non-gamers. This Wario Ware: Smooth Moves video shows little of the game but plenty of the big N's mindset, featuring, as it does, a trio - nay, a gaggle - of young ladies getting to grips with Wii's controller. Much giggling results. Hit the movies tab above to watch the demo.
Sure, it's no different from Microsoft or Sony's achingly Zeitgeist-hunting promo imagery featuring over-styled models fumbling with new technology. But Nintendo is deadly serious about embracing the non-gaming masses - hopefully Ninty's target market will respond. After all, Wii is about fun for both the hardcore and the casual gamer.
Movie Here
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November 16th, 2006, 22:26 Posted By: wraggster
While there's always the chance you'll be bludgeoned or shot up while holding down the fort for your chance to snag a Playstation 3, those who take the (presumably) easier route and grab a Nintendo Wii may be buying an accident waiting to happen. Those oh-so-cautious execs over at Wally World have already passed on their chance to install Wii demo kiosks due to "safety concerns," and even those testing it out in GameStop will be keenly watched. In preparation for Wiiday, 1UP has sacrificed some of its own men and women to ensure that all that pent-up excitement (not to mention the effects of sleep deprivation) doesn't lead to a Wiinjury. Although the big N fully expects everyone grasping a Wiimote to buckle up (to their wrist) first, we all know that's not likely to happen -- so you should probably take precautions to avoid getting butterfingers, tennis elbow, entangled, strangled, cancer (saywha?), and a whole host of other potential wounds. While you're brushing up on those Wii reviews, make sure you hit the read link to see just how dangerous that cutesy controller can be.
More Info
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November 16th, 2006, 23:15 Posted By: wraggster
One of the core ideas behind serious games is using digital entertainment to convey ideas and values. In the following article, I take a look at how Nintendo portrays its most famous female character in the recently released portable title, Super Princess Peach.
In Mario’s universe, Princess Peach - formerly known as Princess Toadstool in Western countries until 1996 - has always played the damsel in distress role. Until now, all she did was wait until Mario showed up and rescued her. Arguably, that is not a very active role but, to be fair to Nintendo, that is pretty much what princesses do in traditional fairy tales. In 2005, Nintendo launched Super Princess Peach, a Nintendo DS game where, for the first time, Peach was the protagonist. Rather than been rescued, it was now her turn to rescue Mario and Luigi who were being held prisoners by the evil Bowser.
I first heard of the game through Ian Bogost, who was shocked at what he called “Nintendo’s most politically incorrect game ever.” The reason behind this claim was that Peach’s superpowers are not physical, such as what is commonly found with male characters in the Mario universe. Instead, Peach fights with an unconventional weapon: her emotions. That sounded too weird to be true, so I ran to the nearest store and bought myself a copy.
The player can use different kind of emotional attacks: rage, crying and happiness (along with a sort of neutral emotion called “Calm” which replenishes her energy bar). Each emotion is represented on the interface through a heart that can be activated on the console’s touchable screen. Many game critics noticed the sexism of portraying a female character in this particular way. Ryan Davis, argued on his GameSpot review of the game that it had “some weird sexist undercurrents in the game design”. Similarly, Bryn Williams wondered at GameSpy: “Is Nintendo trying to say that females are all ‘emo’?”
Full Article
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November 16th, 2006, 23:22 Posted By: wraggster
New press release:
Nintendo's new Wii(TM) video game system not only changes how people play games, but redefines how they interact with both the system and their televisions. With the Wii Menu, Nintendo offers a gateway to new experiences through a collection of
interactive channels people can use to customize their gaming and entertainment options.
The Wii Menu serves as the main portal to the different functions of Wii, and is designed to evolve throughout the life of the system. Some functions can be used right out of the box and more will roll out during the next few weeks and into next year, with content continually changing over time. Wii goes on sale in the Americas Nov. 19 at an MSRP of $249.99. "The diversity of the Wii Menu has something for both gamers and non-gamers," says Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime. "The
options exist to help introduce current non-players to Wii and help us bring gaming to the masses."
On launch day, players who want to play a Wii game or a Nintendo GameCube(TM) game simply pop in the disc, aim their motion-sensitive Wii
Remote(TM) at the Wii Menu and click on the Disc Channel to start the game. it's that simple. But some of the real fun with the Wii Menu comes with
customization. The Mii(TM) Channel lets users create caricatures of themselves (or anyone else) that can be used first in Wii Sports(TM), a
collection of five sports games packed in with the Wii system. Up to 10 Mii characters can be stored in a single Wii Remote, and players can carry them
to a friend's house and populate multiple Wii systems. Using the Photo Channel, users can explore their creative talents by developing a slide show or showing off their best shots in an easy, fun
way. With an SD memory card from a digital camera, users can display their photos on their televisions and perform basic editing and manipulation.
The Wii Shop Channel serves as Wii's online storefront, where visitors can redeem Wii Points(TM) to download games or other items. Users need a high-speed Internet connection to access the Wii Shop Channel and choose from at least 12 classic Virtual Console(TM) games that will be ready to
play on launch day. Some of the games a player can download include: Donkey Kong(R) (NES(R)), based on the arcade game of the same name; SimCity(R)
(SNES(TM)), where players get to build a city from the ground up, being responsible for each decision they make; Super Mario 64(R), the first-ever
true 3-D game, which changed the face of gaming forever; Sonic the Hedgehog(R) (Genesis(R)), the fastest blue hedgehog on Earth whips through
hair-raising loop-de-loops and into dizzying dives; and Bomberman(R) '93 (TurboGrafx16(TM)), the exciting, powered-up version that followed the
original Bomberman(R). More Virtual Console games will become available weekly every Monday
following launch and by year's end, gamers will be able to pick from a library of 30 or more classic games from the Nintendo Entertainment
System(R), Super NES(R), Nintendo(R) 64, Sega Genesis(TM) and TurboGrafx16 consoles. Users buy Wii Points at retail or with a credit card in the Wii
Shop Channel and redeem their Wii Points to download the classic games. NES games start at 500 Wii Points, Super NES games start at 800 Wii Points and Nintendo 64 games start at 1,000 Wii Points. Sega Genesis games start at 800 Wii Points and TurboGrafx16 games start at 600 Wii Points.
The Wii Shop Channel is also where users will go to download the Opera browser that will let them surf the Internet from the comfort of their couches on Wii's Internet Channel. More information about the availability of the browser will be released in the coming weeks. On Dec. 20, Nintendo will roll out the Forecast Channel. Users will be able to access free local weather information, which is continually
updated. Users can access worldwide weather information by browsing a 3-D globe. Weather information will be supplied by Weathernews. A high-speed Internet connection is required to access the Forecast Channel. Then on Jan. 27, the Wii Menu News Channel will make headlines with the latest news from around the world provided by the Associated Press. A high-speed Internet connection is also needed to access the News Channel. For more information about Wii and the Wii Menu, visit Wii.com. The worldwide innovator in the creation of interactive entertainment,
Nintendo Co., Ltd., of Kyoto, Japan, manufactures and markets hardware and software for its Nintendo DS(TM), Game Boy(R) Advance and Nintendo GameCube(TM) systems, and upcoming Wii(TM) system. Since 1983, Nintendo has sold nearly 2.2 billion video games and more than 387 million hardware units globally, and has created industry icons like Mario(TM), DonkeyKong(R), Metroid(R), Zelda(TM) and Pokemon(R). A wholly owned subsidiary, Nintendo of America Inc., based in Redmond, Wash., serves as headquarters for Nintendo's operations in the Western Hemisphere. For more information about Nintendo, visit the company's Web site at http://www.nintendo.com.
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November 16th, 2006, 23:57 Posted By: wraggster
Updated release from shadowghost21:
This is the .02 version of LegocadDS. It has a few tweaks and a gui overhaul. I really need people who download this file to help me improve the quality of the product you are reciving. I have been working on graphics for way to long and would like to start coding some save/load features So please submit comments suggestions and what not I need the input so that I can make the program all it can be. Now noward to your download.
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November 17th, 2006, 00:04 Posted By: wraggster
Noddybox has posted a new release of his great ZX81 emulator for the Nintendo DS:
Well, that will teach me to try and squeeze out a release when busy at work (alright, with Splinter Cell). More importantly it will teach me not to use Sinclair BASIC to test my keyboard routines. Grab your slab of 8-bit monochrome loveliness (now with free working keyboard) from the DS81 page.
More Info
If you'd have told me 25 years ago that I'd be playing 3D Monster Maze on the bus on a device powered by batteries, I'd have said you were mad...
DS81 is a basic emulation of the Sinclair ZX81. It only supports text modes games (basically anything that uses the bog-standard ZX81 display file for the technically minded), so hi-res games will not work. This is being worked on.
It includes a few games to try out. Note that I did not write these games, or own the copyright to them. They are included in good faith (as far as I know the authors do not mind this work being distributed), and if any of them want their work removing I'll gladly oblige:
ZX81 ROM © 1981 Nine Tiles Networks Ltd
Mazogs © 1981 Don Priestley
City Patrol © 1982 Don Priestley
Sabotage © 1982 Don Priestley
3D Monster Maze © 1983 Malcom E. Evans
DS81 also supports the loading of external files from a FAT formatted device. To do this the internal FAT routines of libnds are used, so if you're device isn't supported then I'm afraid you're stuck with the built-in games. Don't worry, you're not alone -- I wrote the damn thing and can't use external files on my flash device!
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November 17th, 2006, 00:08 Posted By: wraggster
News/release from PSYM
My first DS game. Very simple, very boring ... but it's near enough finished, so I thought I may as well post it.
I've only tested on Dualis and hardware (using M3). Dualis works but randomization doesn't seed, so it's very easy Also transparency is broken on the menu, but nothing major. Oh, and it plays open book style, so on an emulator you'll have to tilt your head Hardware everything is ok.
Options doesn't do anything, timer and turn counter don't work. I don't plan to fix these things as I'm now into my flickr project.
Comments, questions to:
flickr [dot] nds [at] gmail [dot] com
Cheers,
Psym
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November 17th, 2006, 06:15 Posted By: Kramer
Nintendo announced today in a press release that many of the Wii's online functions would not be available when the system launches in North America on Sunday. The release reveals the forecast channel will debut on Dec. 20, while the news channel (with content from the Associated Press) will debut Jan. 27 of next year. The release also suggested that the Wii's Opera browser would not be available for download immediately, saying "more information about the availability of the browser will be released in the coming weeks."
Nintendo did confirm that 12 Virtual Console games would be available on launch day, including Donkey Kong, SimCity, Super Mario 64, Sonic the Hedgehog and Bomberman '93. The release also confirmed that new VC content would be released every Monday and established pricing for Genesis and Turbo-Grafx games at 800 points ($8) and 600 points ($6) respectively.
Of course what is perhaps the key online feature for a game console -- actual online game play -- still won't be available until next year, making a lot of this moot from a certain perspective. Still, this delay in more basic online functionality makes us wonder how well Nintendo's online strategy will be able to go from a practical standing start to keeping up with the big boys.
Source: Joystiq
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November 17th, 2006, 16:50 Posted By: wraggster
The Nintendo MP3 Player is a small GBA cart-sized gadget that will allow you to listen to MP3 files stored on an SD memory card through your DS or GBA - much like the Play-Yan previously released in Japan.
For £20, you get the MP3 player which slots into the GBA, or the GBA port on your DS, with easy-to-use menus and song information displayed on the portable screen.
But beware that it doesn't come with an SD memory card - you'll need to buy one of those separately. You'll also need a way of copying your tunes onto the SD card, so if your PC or Mac doesn't take SD cards, you'll need a card reader, too.
Also bound to detract some of the excitement away from the MP3 player is that fact that it launches on the same day as the Wii, when no-one will care about anything other than getting Zelda home for a 40-hour bashing. It'll be like the quiet little boy in the corner, longing for attention.
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November 17th, 2006, 17:23 Posted By: wraggster
Some guy is selling one of the 26 "holy grails" of NES games, the 1990 Nintendo World Championships golden cart. It still works (apparently), is still fun (presumably), and is one of only 26 ever handed out. Where are the others? In a glass case, taking pride of place in the office of some shady underworld figure?
I like to think so.
Yeah, it's nice, and definitely rare, but is it really worth $15,000? You can get 60 Wiis for that. Or...one PS3.
More Info
Via Kotaku
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November 17th, 2006, 17:37 Posted By: wraggster
Massive New DS Release for today:
News from Play Asia:
The only Final Fantasy that was never ported to any other platform—the third installment of the original series—finally appears on Nintendo DS™! Lauded as "legendary" by the Japanese fan base, Final Fantasy III has been reborn, incorporating the latest in portable gaming technology. Using the features of the Nintendo DS™ to their fullest, Final Fantasy III features graphics that have been reworked and remodeled in 3D, while maintaining the mythical Final Fantasy look and feel.
A chance encounter with a sentient crystal propels Luneth from his peaceful village of Ur in search of three others who share his destiny. Together, the four youthful adventurers must vanquish the darkness that threatens to engulf the world.
Published by Nintendo in the US and developed by Square-Enix, Final Fantasy III for Nintendo DS™ is shipping today as US release version at US$ 39.90 only. Today's shipment covers around 75% of all preorders. We are expecting more supply to arrive during next week to clear all remaining orders as well as ship new orders.
Also in stock today is BradyGames' Final Fantasy III Official Strategy Guide. The English language guide book contains a complete walkthrough of the entire game, detailed area maps and much more on 176 pages. Available now at US$ 18.90 only.
Last but not least, also make sure to check out the Final Fantasy III Original Soundtrack [CD+DVD] (in stock at US$ 23.90) and the Final Fantasy III Square-Enix Characters toy release (on preorder at US$ 6.90 per randomly shipped figure).
Game features:
Dynamic job-changing system ensures a virtually infinite variety of team variations
Great use of DS touch screen! Explore dungeons, cast spells and battle enemies with the stylus
A classic reborn! Dramatic overhaul with 3D graphics brings this classic to brilliant life for today's demanding gamer
Support for Nintendo Wi-Fi play!
More info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...9-en-84-n.html
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November 18th, 2006, 00:24 Posted By: wraggster
Gamasutra's semi-regular feature taking the pulse of folks in the game industry turns its attention this week to the PS3 and Wii launches. From the comments submitted to the site, it seems that many industry vets are generally more excited about the Wii than with Sony's offering. From the article: "'Definitely a Wii (already pwii-ordered). The price point of the PS3 and the lack of enticing launch titles makes me as interested in a PS3 as I am interested in getting a root canal.' - Ryan Conlon, Gearbox Software. 'I am buying a Wii because Sony is too arrogant, from their dev tools to the price point.' - Ed O'Tey, Electronic Arts. 'Wii - pre-ordered. I applaud the attempt to expand and explore game interaction with the Wii. I will not be purchasing a ps3.' - Jim Perkins, EA Canada"
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November 18th, 2006, 00:31 Posted By: wraggster
On eve's eve of the super ginormous Nintendo Wii launch, SanDisk has unveiled special edition Wii SD cards. What makes these cards better than traditional blue SanDisk SD cards? Well, for one, they are white! Just like the Wii! Secondly, they say on the card 'For Wii'! That's it, same shit, new box and higher price. It will be available in 512MB, 1GB and 2GB sizes with prices beginning at $35. I like to call it fanboyploitation.
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November 18th, 2006, 00:33 Posted By: wraggster
OK, so you know how you swing the Wii remote like a tennis racquet or a golf club in Wii Sports? Wouldn't that be a little easier if the remote actually looked like a tennis racquet or golf club? No? Not even a little? Well too bad, Joytech is releasing a set of cheap-looking plastic Wii remote attachments to fulfill such a purpose anyway.
In addition to the sports pack pictured above, Joytech also plans on releasing a rounded controller grip for the remote (perfect for playing NES Virtual Console games), a set of silicon gloves to protect the remote and nunchuck and, most exciting of all, a rechargeable battery pack and docking station to keep your remotes nice and energized. No price has been set for the units, which are due in stores this winter.
Screen Via Comments
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November 18th, 2006, 00:36 Posted By: wraggster
After recommending a "wait and see" approach to buying a PS3, CNN/Money's Chris Morris says the Wii is "a heck of a lot of fun." The game columnist likens the PS3 and 360 to powerful and flashy Lamborghinis whilst comparing the Wii to a peppy Mini Cooper; not going to win any speed races, but handles like butta. He believes, as many, that Nintendo's "gutsy decision" to go against the grain may very well pay off in terms of a boost to its market share.
From the review:"One important note: Graphics aren't great on Wii games. In fact, they're generally on par with current generation systems, but Nintendo's betting that won't be a factor. If anything comes back to haunt them as we move later into this cycle in the industry, it will be graphical quality. For now, though, the innovative controls more than make up for the difference."
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November 18th, 2006, 00:37 Posted By: wraggster
Reuters reports on cheaper (or traditional) $50 game prices for Wii reconfirming what Nintendo's been preaching regarding a desired increase in publisher returns. From the article: "The cheaper price may mask fatter profits for developers. Consumers buy Wii titles for 17 percent less than next-generation console games, but publishers say development costs for Wii are only half as much -- or less. THQ Inc. Chief Executive Brian Farrell said that investment in a next-generation video game can run roughly $12 million to $20 million, while a title for the Wii could be in the $5 million to $8 million range."
Assuming motion controls reach critical mass combined with said fatty profits, this is sure to foster more third-party support than Nintendo previously had with the GameCube, no?
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November 18th, 2006, 00:39 Posted By: wraggster
New for DS released:
features
76 recipes
Use the stylus to chop, slice, pan fry, knead, grate, mash, peel and more
Share recipes with as many as four other players
Wirelessly send a saved game to a friend
description
In Cooking Mama, you take the role of a chef who must take orders and prepare food on time. Fortunately, you have an friendly guide in Mama! Use the stylus to cut vegetables and meat, then cook them on the stove to perfection. The touch screen also comes into play as you shake the skillet for an omelet, dip tempura in oil, form dumplings, knead pizza dough and more. Blow into the mic to cool food!
More Info /buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1iwd.html
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November 18th, 2006, 01:00 Posted By: wraggster
New from SuccessHK
Product Features of Nintendo DS NDS Lite Screen Protector
High Light Transmission Rate
Durable and Anti-scratching material
Easy installation
For Both DS Lite Screens
More Description of Nintendo DS NDS Lite Screen Protector
This screen protector provides a good protection to both the screens of your DS Lite. It is made of high lighttransmission rate, durable and anti-scratching material.
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November 18th, 2006, 01:04 Posted By: wraggster
Twilight Princess is something you rarely see: a 60-hour adventure in which every moment is memorable. But then, maybe that's no surprise -- it represents the full resources and effort of the world's most powerful first-party developer, and thanks to all those delays, it's even enjoyed an extra year of polish and refinement. The question to ask therefore isn't "Is it any good?" but rather "Just how good is it?"
The answer? Truly fantastic. It's not a reinvention of the genre like Ocarina was -- but it's much better, because it takes all its predecessors' raw ideas, perfects them, and creates an experience that's at once new and familiar. It's rare to find a launch game that truly justifies the purchase of a new console, but this is precisely that.
More Info
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November 18th, 2006, 01:07 Posted By: wraggster
News from Cory1492It is with much sadness that I bump down the post below this. It was a tough choice and I have put it off for a few days now.
This is what I had originally hoped to have ready to open the blog with, something else besides putting up this blog that I was working on in my spare time while my father was sleeping here at home.
EZ4 can now write from homebrew!
Though I spent quite alot of time on trying things with the code set out by EZ’s people, I was not the one who fixed it (though the fixed code did require a small modification to the write function). It’s still missing a few proper checks, and when my other microSD finally arrives from BambooGaming I will see what I can do to straighten everything else out.
The fixed FAT driver was actually found in Infantile Paralysiser’s Image Viewer Version 0.4. I am still not sure who the credit should go to for the fix, but my thanks goes out to whomever did all that testing and isolated the problem.
Some sample code (copies a file “test.bin” to “test.cpy”) with a working version of Chishm’s FAT lib:
EZ4FATDemo-Nov-11-2006.zip
And a couple things I compiled to test it’s works out:
REIN_16_EZ4.zip (SATA’s REIN V16)
rein_16_EZ4mod_src.zip
DSO-EZ4.zip
More information and a couple of other apps rebuilt by jrobot for EZ4 can be found in this thread over at the unofficial English EZ forum.
Edit:/ just did a rebuild of picodriveDS 1.5 and current work version (1.6b - Nov 13 2006). Here it is with source modification included.
picodriveds_15_16b_ez4only.zip
More info at link above
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November 18th, 2006, 01:10 Posted By: wraggster
Via dsfanboy
After seeing this new DS commercial pop up on YouTube, the idea of taking the DS along to the salon seems like a good one. Playing while commuting is obvious, but the salon's a new one on this blogger. Sitting there while Mary Sunshine chitchats about Dancing with the Stars is ... boring doesn't even begin to cover it. Where do you whip out your DS to numb the pain? Apparently the people in this print ad (to the right) take their DS Lites along to orgies.
Can any of our British pals give us the details on this ad? Is it seen often, or is it just one of those rare events saved for particular shows whose viewers already own a DS (or two) anyway?
Video Here
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November 18th, 2006, 01:11 Posted By: wraggster
Via DSfanboy
It's been awhile since Ms. Croft has graced a Nintendo system and, according to the latest reviews of Tomb Raider Legend on the DS, it's for good reason. This port of an otherwise enjoyable title is apparently lacking some TLC, resulting in one unenjoyable time. That's a shame, we were hoping this would be more fun than it seems ...
Nintendo Power - 45%: "In the future, hopefully Eidos's commitment to rejuvenating the series will carry over to the handheld installments, but this uninspired port feels like it belongs to the crumbling franchise of a few years ago rather than the new and improved Legend." [Dec. 2006, p.105]
Games Radar - 50%: "Despite all of the frustration, however, Tomb Raider on DS can still be great fun at times - as long as you've got super-human patience and are prepared to squint a lot."
Pocket Gamer UK - 40%: "Indeed, so much of what was an otherwise quality adventure has been lost in the transition, this is more like a book of the film where half of the pages have been torn out. Avoid."
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November 18th, 2006, 02:30 Posted By: wraggster
New from SuccessHK
Price:USD 48.74
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance lets you create a four-member strike force of Marvel Super Heroes. If you had to assemble a team of the best heroes, who would you pick? Choose wisely, because this is an alliance for the ages -- the team you create will face incredible evils, from the most exotic locations on Earth to the neighboring solar systems. Partner, battle and interact with more than 140 characters from the entire Marvel Universe, in a multi-mission quest with an innovative combat system. Command the largest roster of Super Heroes ever, as you determine the fate of a universe. Compete or cooperate online - coverge in battle against legendary villains, and Switch between cooperative and competitive mode to partner or challenge 3 other players
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November 18th, 2006, 02:41 Posted By: wraggster
New from SuccessHK
For those who dont know what a Nintendo Wii ism heres more info:
Product Features of Nintendo Wii Nintendo Wii US version
Supports 12cm Wii Disc & 8cm GameCube Disc
Supports NES, SNES, N64, Genesis, TurboGrafix16 games
Wireless controller
2 SD card expansion slots
More Description of Nintendo Wii Nintendo Wii US version
The cool look: The new console boasts high-quality materials and a smart, compact design, approximately the size of three standard DVD cases stacked together.
Backward compatibility: The new console plays all games from the current Nintendo GameCube generation.
The secret weapon: The console also will have downloadable access to 20 years of fan-favorite titles originally released for Nintendo64 the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and even the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES).
The specs: The system boasts 512 megabytes of internal flash memory, wireless controllers, two USB 2.0 ports and built-in Wi-Fi access. A worldwide network of Nintendo players can gather to compete in a comfortable, inviting environment. Revolution's technological heart, a processing chip developed with IBM and code-named "Broadway," and a graphics chip set from ATI code-named 'Hollywood', will deliver game experiences not previously possible.
The stars: Introduction of a number of new franchise properties will add to the world's richest stable of stars, including Mario, Zelda, Super Smash Bros. Metroid.
Wireless freedom: A number of Wi-Fi-enabled launch titles are in development that will employ Nintendo's newly announced wireless gaming service, Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.
What version of the Wii will you buy, given the choice ?
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November 18th, 2006, 13:06 Posted By: JKKDARK
via Myth Games
SEGA of America, Inc. today released new information on the first round of titles from its SEGA Genesis library available via download on Wii's Virtual Console Shop Channel on November 19th. Prices will start at 800 Wii Points to download the SEGA Genesis titles. Wii Points can be purchased online or at retail at an MSRP of $20 for 2,000 points.
Spanning all the popular genres, the titles available at launch include SEGA Genesis classics such as Sonic The Hedgehog, Altered Beast, Golden Axe, Columns, Ecco the Dolphin, Gunstar Heroes, Space Harrier II, Toe Jam & Earl, Ristar and Dr. Robotnik’s Mean Bean Machine.
2006 Title Line Up
Sonic The Hedgehog - (1991/© SEGA) - Rocket Sonic, the fastest blue hedgehog on earth, through hair-raising loop-de-loops and dizzying dives past bubbling lava, waterfalls and on as you gather up Rings and stop Dr. “Ivo” Robotnik’s schemes for world domination!
Altered Beast- (1989/© SEGA) - When Zeus, the legendary Greek God, brings you back to life, you set forth on a mission to rescue his daughter Athena from the underworld. Along the way, collect the Spirit Balls dropped by enemies to increase your strength and transform into a variety of mythical creatures with powerful attacks.
Golden Axe - (1988/© SEGA) - Three mighty heroes have a score to settle with the evil Death Adder in this classic action game. As a powerful fighter, a female amazon, or a mighty dwarf, you’ll fight through Adder’s henchman with weapon and magic attacks or ride the fearsome, fire-breathing beasts to your advantage.
Columns - (1990/© SEGA) - Test your hand at the ancient Phoenician game of Columns. Multi-colored gems drop from the top of the screen into a pit and it is up to you to quickly arrange the order of the jewels as they fall into lines of three or more. If your gems pile up and reach the top, the game is over.
Ecco the Dolphin - (1993/© SEGA) - Help Ecco the dolphin find his missing friends by exploring his vast ocean world. You must surface for air and keep an eye out for enemies as you search the depths. Ecco’s unique sonar ability will give you helpful information from other sea creatures.
Gunstar Heroes - (1993/© SEGA) - The Gunstar 9 planet was peaceful for many years until the vicious dictator, Colonel Red, kidnapped the Gunstar twins' older brother and used mind control to make him his slave. You’ll face many different enemies and bosses as you battle to stop the dictator from unleashing “Golden Silver the Destructor” with apocalyptic consequences!
Space Harrier II - (1988/© SEGA) - Fantasyland has been taken over by destructive forces and a call for help comes from deep in the universe Space Harrier is quick on the scene armed with his laser to defeat wave after wave of destructive forces through twelve thrilling stages, with a dangerous boss waiting at the end of each round.
Toe Jam and Earl - (1992/© ToeJam&Earl Productions,Inc. © SEGA) - Toe Jam and Earl are two fun-loving aliens who accidentally crash on earth when their spaceship collides with a meteorite! They must find 10 pieces of the spaceship so they can get back home to Planet Funkotron, but not all levels have the pieces. Once you find a piece of the ship, you’ll receive a hint as well.
Ristar - (1995/© SEGA) - Greedy, an evil space pirate, has corrupted the kings of Valdi System’s seven planets and enslaved the people who live there. The plea for a hero is answered by Ristar who uses his amazing extendable arms and courage to save Valdi from Greedy.
Dr. Robotnik’s Mean Bean Machine - (1993/© SEGA) - Dr. Robotnik is stamping out music and fun in Mobius with his giant, robotizing Mean Bean Steaming Machine. Before he turns all the citizens of Beanville into robots, you must save the day by gathering up beans in matching colors and defeating Robotnik’s guards!
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November 18th, 2006, 14:15 Posted By: wraggster
Music man XOC, also known as Jason Cox, responsible for arguably the best video game cover album of ALL TIME, has made the penultimate sacrifice. Okay, not even close. But he did turn his original NES—the one he's had since age ten!—into a functioning guitar.
Now if it still also worked as a functioning Nintendo Entertainment System, that'd be something. Something impossible.
Screens Via Comments
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November 18th, 2006, 14:20 Posted By: wraggster
Via Gamedaily
A Revolution or just a controlled uprising? With the Wii's launch there's an incredible amount of hype for the system, but is Nintendo's new console really going to take the game industry by storm? Not from our perspective. Read on for five reasons why Wii won't rock you...
Before we get started, let's make sure we're clear on what this editorial is not about. We're not arguing that the Wii will be a wash for the Big N; to the contrary, we expect Nintendo to profit greatly from the system. In fact, the Wii will likely buck the trend of Nintendo consoles selling fewer units than their predecessors.
However, what this editorial is about is dispelling the notion that the Wii will mark Nintendo's return to the top of the home console world. Nintendo is trying to reach the great, untapped masses with their system, similar to what they've started to achieve with the DS. However, we believe that the system will ultimately end up in third place in terms of global market share, echoing the sentiment of numerous analysts.
Here are five reasons why we believe the Wii won't rock you:
Not Enough Games
One of the main factors that decided the PSOne/N64 war was Nintendo's lack of software support from third parties (Square famously went over to Sony's camp in the early stages). This past generation, third-party support was better for the GameCube, at least at first. However, that support waned over time, slowing the supply of new titles to a trickle and creating a dearth of GameCube exclusive titles.
For this generation, the Wii has a cautious amount of support from third-parties. While some major publishers (like Ubisoft) are jumping in with both feet forward, providing extensive support and new franchises like Red Steel, many others (like Electronic Arts) are giving a much more measured and calculated response with a handful of offerings from established franchises, such as Madden, Harry Potter and The Sims. Looking over the Wii titles, there's a definite pattern with established franchises and licensed children's titles. With the PS3 eventually getting titles such as Metal Gear Solid 4 and Final Fantasy XIII and Xbox 360 getting heavy hitters like Blue Dragon and Mass Effect, Nintendo needs more third-party star power to compete down the road.
[ "It's not necessarily cool or 'hardcore' to say that graphics matter, but it's still a fact: graphics matter." ]
It's also worth noting that some key franchises are missing from the launch lineup. While the Wii will launch with a new Zelda title (it's amazing what happens when you keep delaying a game from the previous generation), the Wii marks the second straight console release by Nintendo without a new Mario game in the launch lineup. Perhaps more importantly, however, is the lack of Super Smash Bros. Brawl for Holiday 2006. Super Smash Bros. Melee is the best selling GameCube title ever, with over 6 million copies sold worldwide, and SSBM was available for the GameCube's first Christmas. Excite Truck surely isn't a proper substitute for Super Smash Bros. Brawl.
While Nintendo will have a lineup of titles for its virtual console, it is unknown whether this can be a major selling factor for the system. Besides, Sony will have similar offerings for their part and Microsoft already has plenty of Xbox Live Arcade titles. All three systems also feature varying degrees of backwards compatibility, but if anyone has the marked advantage in that are it would be Sony, with the PS3's support of the PSOne and PS2's huge game libraries.
Graphics Really Do Matter
What defines "good graphics" is admittedly subjective and the level of visual quality expected by today's consumer is equally hard to gauge. However, when dealing with the next generation of consoles, a good percentage of consumers will look for something that "wows" them—sorry, Mr. Iwata, but we just haven't had the urge to say "wow." Many consumers want to have a console with graphics that will not only impress them, but also their friends and family. They want their new console to be a centerpiece for their home theater system. When looking for a showcase system like this, consumers aren't likely to pick up the Wii.
Now, Wii games certainly don't look bad; in fact, by current-gen standards they look quite decent. However, when compared to the top 360 and PS3 titles, especially on an HDTV, the Wii is blown out of the water. Games like Gears of War and Heavenly Sword absolutely pop and the Wii just doesn't have the CPU and GPU power to match that.
The Wii's relative lack of power will no doubt turn off some developers. While Nintendo would like to emphasize their motion sensitive controller (and we'll be getting to that in a minute) not all developers are looking to make games with a different input method. Many are going to be looking for more triangle-pushing ability to make their 3D models and environments more detailed and more processing power to make physics effects more realistic.
It's not necessarily cool or "hardcore" to say that graphics matter, but it's still a fact: graphics matter.
And some developers will also be looking to the internal hardware for better audio support (another category in which the PS3 and 360 trump the Wii "soundly"). Some (like Factor 5) have already expressed their disappointment in the Wii for this reason. "When I heard what was going on at Nintendo, I cringed," Factor 5 President Julian Eggebrecht told EGM. "It's audio is relatively mediocre. It's essentially GameCube 1.5."
Wii Remote Not the Best Thing Since Sliced Bread
Easily the most talked about feature of the Wii and perhaps the most talked about feature of any next-gen console is the motion sensitive controller. The Wii Remote (or Wii-mote, if you prefer) and the Nunchaku made waves before anyone outside of Nintendo actually had a chance to touch them. Nintendo's tag team then shook up E3 in a good way, creating huge lines for Nintendo's cordoned off Wii section (the exit of which was incidentally guarded by the scariest looking bouncer this side of Sunset Blvd).
So the Wii has been riding high on a wave of hype, and it's not totally undeserved... but it should be dialed down a bit. Speaking for GameDaily BIZ's experience with the controller, it's not exactly the revolutionary experience Nintendo might like you to think it is. Some titles (like Trauma Center and Red Steel) feel like a natural fit for the controller's set up, because your in game avatar mirrors what you are doing in real life: moving your hands and arms about. Others (such as Monkey Ball) feel as though they could have been done with traditional analog stick controls. Complacent control schemes will no doubt tempt many developers who, instead of using the motion sensing controllers in a unique way, merely port the game over to the Wii and modify the game's control to use motion sensing and call it a day. This is especially true with mutliplatform titles not built specifically for the Wii. You can have the greatest controller setup in the world, but if nobody uses that technology in a creative way, then it's all for naught.
Additionally, sometimes using the motion sensitive controller is awkward to the player and doubly so to observers. Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkachi 2 is a prime example of this, with punching and "Kamehameha wave" motions required to make your character fight. While this may be the thing YouTube 15-minute celebrities are made of, it's hard to imagine it catching on long-term with the prime 18 - 34 male demographic.
While the fundamental design of the Wii's controller is to supposedly simplify modern controllers, the Nunchuck accessory adds a wrinkle: two-handed control. Chewing gum while walking and patting your head while rubbing your belly might vex a lot of people, and so might simultaneous controller motion requirements. The degree of ambidexterity required may make the Wii just as unapproachable to a non-gamer as a PS3 or Xbox 360.
Home Console Market Isn't Nintendo's To Lose
When Nintendo announced the DS, many perceived it as a big risk. While it was certainly a departure for the company, Nintendo was so overwhelmingly dominant in the portable market that that odds were in its favor from the start. Indeed, the system received good third-party support and the DS has been embraced by millions of fans around the world.
Now, the Wii is releasing, but instead of following the phenomenally successful Game Boy Advance, it has to follow the GameCube. While Nintendo's current-gen system certainly has its fans, it was probably Nintendo's least successful home console in a fiscal sense to date. The GCN sold fewer units than the Xbox (with practically zero market penetration for the Xbox in Japan) and the system took a distant third place to the PS2 with less than 15 percent market share.
The point is that established support really does carry weight in console wars, and portable system success does not ensure home console sales. Despite Nintendo's attempt to drum up interest from traditional "non-gamers" the fact remains that the people most interested in the next-gen consoles are current-gen gamers. And with a survey showing loyalty among the mass of PS2 owners significantly higher than the Xbox or GCN, it may prove difficult to cut into the established mind share.
Price Advantage Won't Last
The Wii will be the cheapest of the three next-gen consoles on the market this holiday. It's perhaps $50 more expensive than most people hoped for, but $250 still has an edge over $299/$399 for the 360 and $499/$599 for the PS3. Console prices, however, never stay static for long in a competitive marketplace.
Microsoft is probably already prepared to usher in a price drop for its system; the cost of the PS3 probably made them decide to wait in dropping the price. And while the PS3 is expensive right now, Sony is working very hard to streamline manufacturing and bring the cost of components down so that they can eventually slash the price tag as well. It's the nature of electronics to decrease in cost as economies of scale and abundance take effect.
With the Wii, there's less distance for the price to fall. While tactics like removing the bundled game might help the cost come down in a more precipitous fashion, hundred dollar price drops (which are likely with the PS3 the next two holiday seasons) aren't going to happen. The simple fact remains that the price difference between the Wii and the 360/PS3 will shrink over time, unless Nintendo is willing to continue cutting the price of the system when it reaches $100. And will consumers really balk at the difference between a $99 Wii and a $199 or $249 PS3?
Final Thoughts
When a new console comes out, it's very easy to get caught up in the hype. We feel that Nintendo has done a great job in perking up the ears of many Nintendo fans and general hardcore gamers. However, even though the Wii may have energized Nintendo's fan base like no system that's come out since the SNES, GameDaily BIZ does not foresee this excitement being replicated in the mainstream, at least not over the long term.
Nintendo fans should take heart, though. While unlikely to light the whole world on fire, the Wii's success will likely keep Nintendo making home consoles for now and into the forseeable future. And perhaps most importantly, have fun with your Wii if you manage to get one during this hectic launch; if it does that much for you, then you've already come out ahead.
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November 18th, 2006, 14:28 Posted By: wraggster
New from SuccessHK
Price:USD 30.97 - £16.00
In Tamagotchi Connection: Corner Shop 2, shop owners must keep their Tamagotchi partners happy by earning "Gotchi points" through performing mini-game tasks for the customers. Gotchi points can be used to clothe, feed, and care for your Tamagotchi partners. As more points are collected, new types of shops for players to open will become unlocked. Shops not seen in the original such as the Bowling Alley and Sushi Bar will be available, as well as upgrades to old favorites like the Concert Hall where players can sing along to the music with the DS?microphone.
In "Tamagotchi Connection: Corner Shop 2", catering to the needs of your customers will be essential in keeping the Tamagotchi happy. The five different happiness levels will determine the dialogue that occurs between the player and their Tamagotchi partner, and nobody likes a grumpy Tamagotchi.
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November 18th, 2006, 14:32 Posted By: wraggster
Whats the easiest way to wind up PS3 Fanboys, well some bloke has dressed up as a wiimote and paraded up and down the lines of people camping for a PS3, hilarious.
Screen Via Comments
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November 18th, 2006, 14:47 Posted By: wraggster
Shash has posted more of his WIP from the DeSmuMe - DS Emulator for Windows:
I fixed quite a large amount of bugs, but the 2 most important ones, would be the ones from topic: texture coordinate generation and flickering.
The first one is quite simple, as most PC hardware, the DS supports texture coordinate generation. This is used, for example, if you want to have a pool with water, the water being a texture mapped plane, and want it to seem to wave: instead of having a large amount of geometry, just generate the texture coordinates varying to get the visual effect of waving. I had made an implemention long ago, but I always found samples which rendered wrong, and then when I fixed one of them, another was broken. The bug was rather stupid: as openGL and DS texcoord generation doesn't map 1:1, I just pre-transformed them, and then sent them to openGL. The problem, was that I was not resetting the texture matrix, and as a such, at last they got pre-transformed by me, and then transformed by openGL. Stupid bug of the year, for sure.
Flickering was a damn annoying bug, which I never got enough motivation to fix, it "just" involved retrieving the openGL framebuffer, then copying it to BG0, and send it to the layering pipeline that desmume uses. Sounds simple, in fact it's simple to implement, but the code is ugly, probably slower than it should be, and, by the fact it has to be transformed from 24bit to 16bit, it looks a bit uglier (as in the DS, :P)
More Info
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November 18th, 2006, 15:20 Posted By: wraggster
ttursas has again updated his homebrew game for the DS, heres whats new:
What's new in v0.1.5:
* Added random variation to particle rotations.
* Optimized collision checks.
* Optimized bullet and particle managers.
* The planes can now collide with each other.
* Changing the levels cleared the network match player list.
* Added support for static particle emitters.
* You'll recieve damage for being near an exploding plane.
* Added third plane.
* The server doesn't send updates to clients that have disconnected from a match.
* The server autopings the clients once a second, and if a client fails to respond in three
seconds, it's declared dead.
Download and Give feedback Via Comments
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November 18th, 2006, 15:38 Posted By: wraggster
Christ posted this news:
Hello,
After some good works, and thanks to some critics, I've released a new version of AMAP4DS: AMAP4DS v3.1
The main change between v3.0 and v3.1 is the ability to display AMAP4DS logo, map name, author name and website name on your DS menu linker.
Before, using several maps on your DS was not easy because all the AMAP4DS maps had the same name (with some DS linkers, like DS-Extrem). Now, Each map will have his own name
This is a minor update, but so useful that I've decided to update ALL the existing maps available. So, if you used AMAP4DS v1 or v2, you can now download the v3.1 version of your favourite map...
For those who make their own maps, AMAP4DS-Open-Source has been updated to v3.1 too.
Christ
Homepage: http://www.andreani.net/ds/
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November 18th, 2006, 16:43 Posted By: wraggster
Our friends at Play Asia have posted on their site all the Wii accessories and Console packs, the prices for those who want an overseas Wii will disapoint but then after the PS3 release last weekend at least they arent that high.
$599 for a US Wii with Zelda is one price, (too much for me)
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November 18th, 2006, 16:52 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via pc world
Members of Nintendo's huge, vocal fan base have been salivating in anticipation of the Wii for some time. But the curious and appreciative onlookers that I've noticed during my recent testing of a retail unit suggest that the Wii's appeal may well extend beyond the Nintendo faithful. The Wii seems poised to make console gaming more social, immersive, and--most importantly--fun than it has ever been.
Nintendo has announced that more than 1 million units of the $250 Wii will be available when the model makes its official U.S. debut on Sunday. So your odds of getting your hands on a Wii in the near future are better than your odds of snagging a PS3. Cryogenically freezing yourself to avoid the wait, as one of the characters in South Park did recently, won't be necessary.
Below is a video of the Nintendo Wii in action. To view it, you'll need to have the Adobe Flash Player plug-in installed.
Out of the Box
The Wii is the most compact of the next-generation consoles. It weighs just 2.7 pounds and measures 8.5 inches long by 6 inches wide by less than 2 inches thick. It has clean, sharp lines and an Apple-like glossy white finish, though we'll undoubtedly see units in black and possibly other colors at some point.
Like the PlayStation 3 and the Xbox 360, The Wii can be oriented horizontally or vertically, thanks to its angled plastic stand. Once you've positioned it, your next step is to plug in the power supply (which is about the size a laptop brick), and connect the bundled composite audio/video cables to your television. To output content at the Wii's maximum 480p resolution in 16:9 wide-screen format, you'll have to purchase the optional component cable separately.
Next you must set up the included controllers: a Wii Remote and a Nunchuk--a joystick-style controller that connects to the remote for additional game control. I first hooked up the supplied sensor bar to the console and placed it just under the display of my TV. The sensor bar allows the console to communicate wirelessly (via Bluetooth) with up to four Wii Remotes at a time. The Wii Remote works for games within a radius of about 30 feet and functions as a cursor-type pointing device within about 15 feet. In my testing, the on-screen pointer jittered slightly when I tried to use it from farther away.
The final setup steps are to place two AA batteries into the Wii Remote, rearrange your furniture as necessary to clear plenty of space in front of the TV (to avoid any "Wiinjury"), and fire up the console.
Our colleagues over at GamePro have scanned in the Wii's manual, and it's worth a look to get an even more complete idea of the Wii's setup routine and overall features.
PC World also has a detailed account of a test drive of the PlayStation 3; and a review comparing the PS3 and the Wii.
The Wii Menu and Online Features
The first time I powered up the Wii, I had to create a gamer ID, which the system uses to save your games and also to identify you online. After creating my log-in and entering the date and time, I was presented with the Wii Menu. This interface, which uses a television/channel metaphor, is where you access the Wii's mostly free online features.
The first thing I wanted to do was jump online. I was particularly interested in the "sleepless" WiiConnect24 service that lets the console automatically download information, even when it's on standby.
The Wii includes a built-in 802.11b/g wireless network adapter, but you can also go online by using extra-cost options such as a LAN adaptor or a Wi-Fi USB adaptor that shares a PC's Internet connection. I tested the integrated Wi-Fi, and setup was a snap. The Wii scanned for and found my wireless ADSL router, and it let me type in the network's WEP key via an on-screen keyboard. I found that I could select letters and move around the Wii Menu using the Wii remote in the same way that I'd use a computer mouse. The remote even vibrated subtly in my hand as I hovered over menu options. Tactile feedback: great!
Unfortunately, since Nintendo's servers won't be up and running until the Wii launches, my online experience was limited. But the Wii will link to a lot of online elements after launch:
Wii Shop Channel (and Virtual Game Console): Nintendo's online store will eventually offer various extras to download, but the most notable one at launch is the Virtual Console, which will allow gamers to download and play games from past consoles such as the Nintendo 64, NES, Super NES, Sega Genesis, and TurboGrafx16. Nintendo will offer 12 classic console games at launch, including Donkey Kong (NES), SimCity (SNES), Super Mario 64, Sonic the Hedgehog (Genesis), and Bomberman '93 (TurboGrafx16). Some 30 virtual console games should be available for download by year's end, according to Nintendo. The online shop will operate on a payment system called Wii Points. You'll be able to purchase Wii Points at retail outlets or with a credit card online. They'll be available in blocks of 2000 for $20 a block (which means that 1 Wii point is worth a penny, and 100 are worth a dollar). The retro NES games will start at 500 Wii points, TurboGrafx16 titles at 600 Wii Points, SNES and Sega Genesis games at 800 Wii Points, and N64 classics at about 1000 Wii Points.
Internet Channel: A customized version of the Opera Web browser (with Flash support) will be available for the Wii, Nintendo says. We can't tell whether it'll be ready for download at launch, nor how much it will cost, but Nintendo has confirmed that you'll have to surrender Wii Points to obtain it.
Forecast Channel: On this channel you'll be able to browse a 3D globe to obtain weather forecasts that are automatically updated each day.
News Channel: This channel will automatically display the latest news from around the world. The Associated Press will supply the headlines, Nintendo says.
Wii Message Board: Here you can post messages on a calendar for other Wii players in your house, exchange messages with Wii users around the world, and gather information about the latest game updates.
Photo Channel: The Wii's photo management and sharing options are far deeper than those of the PlayStation 3. You can use this channel to access digital photos via the Wii's SD card slot or a mobile phone. And besides just viewing the images, you'll be able to zoom in; create slide shows, a photo gallery or photo puzzles; draw on images; adjust colors in various artistic ways; and send your creations to other Wii users.
Mii Channel: This channel invites you to create customized caricature avatars for yourself; use them in a variety of Wii games; and save them to the Wii Remote for use later--even at a friend's house. You can store up to ten Mii characters on a single Wii Remote.
Disc Channel: Clicking here starts a Wii game disc that you've inserted.
Those Controllers
Wii controllers are designed to be perfectly usable whether you're left- or right-handed.
For games, the Wii Remote has a plus pad (D-pad), a large A button, an underside B trigger, and buttons labeled 1 and 2. The main surface has other buttons as well: power up, minus and plus (for escaping game menus, and the like) and a home button (for switching back to the Wii Menu and checking controller battery life).
The Wii Remote also contains a control for adjusting force feedback, a built-in speaker, a wrist strap (in case the remote flies out of your hand), and four blue LED lights that indicate which player/controller number you've been assigned. An expansion port on the remote lets you connect the Nunchuk and other optional controllers. The supplied Nunchuk controller is used in conjunction with the Wii Remote and provides an analog thumb stick, and two front trigger buttons labeled C and Z. A second Wii Remote costs $40, and a second Nunchuk costs $20.
Another option is a classic-style controller (which Nintendo has priced at $20) for non-motion-sensing titles such as fast-paced fighting games. At E3 last spring, I took photos of the classic controller and Nintendo's concept "Zapper," a gunlike shell for the Wii Remote.
As time goes by, you can expect independent vendors to offer a multitude of plastic shells to slide your Wii Remote into--all of them promising to improve your gaming experience. One product already on sale is UbiSoft's $20 Wii Steering Wheel. Web rumors suggest that Electronic Arts may be working on a way to let you strap the Wii Remote to your foot in order to play its FIFA soccer game. Another rumor has it that the Nintendo DS handheld's touch screen will be able to act as a controller for Wii games.
Nintendo has experimented with different controllers in the past. Anyone remember the Power Glove or Virtual Boy? This time however, the company's efforts seem to have produced a winner.
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November 18th, 2006, 18:35 Posted By: djkus
I pre ordered my Wii from game Uk www.game.co.uk a few months ago... I was getting worried i had not heard anything.
I just received this email from them!
Dear Customer,
As we are sure you're aware the Nintendo Wii is launched on December 8th and will be the must-have games machine this Christmas.
Congratulations! The good news is that you were one of the first customers to have ordered a Wii from GAME.co.uk and we are happy to inform you that we are expecting to receive enough units of Wii from Nintendo, to fulfil your hardware order for launch!
Looks like Ill have to take a sickie on December 8th!!
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November 18th, 2006, 21:27 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via 4 color rebellion
There is always that group of people that has to tinker with every gadget they get. People have been able to hack every game system out there today. How many of you have a flashed DS or have been affected by some hacker while playing an online DS game? Anyways, it seems that the Wii homebrew scene has already been started. A Nintendo geek has started a project named Wiili for his final year in college, aimed at bringing Linux to the Wii.
He seems to be making this piece of software into a free live DVD based on Mandriva. What this means is that basically you put a DVD into your drive and it temporarily loads the OS. Once you turn the computer off, the Wii acts like it has never been touched by the disc. Well that is basically how it should work in theory(think of it like a game or the Opera DS browser). Anyways the author is unable at the time to verify that the this will actually work, but he conjectures that since it is based closely on the Gamecube hardware, it shouldn’t take too much for it to work on the Wii. It seems like a pretty nifty little thing to play with the Wii. He aims to have the following features available on Wiili.
Surf the Internet (using the control as a mouse pointer)
Wii Media Extender, Stream moves, music, etc, from a PC to a TV using WiiLi and the Nintendo Wii in the middle. Think Apple iTV for free.
Write a document with a regular USB keyboard and print it with any USB printer.
Email and chat with your friends.
Use an external USB storage device to backup and play your movies, games, mp3’s, etc…
Play old classic games using the MAME console emulator.
Develop your own programs and games.
Control WiiLi from your PC using the WiFi connection.
Use Willi and the Wii as a Network Attached Storage (NAS) by connecting it to an external USB HD.
Anything you could possibly do with a regular computer.
Wow, what a list, this sounds like more of a computer than our revolutionary game console. If this software ever gets out, this could be described as no other word other than awesome. But then again that is a big “if”. The Wii isn’t out yet and these are some pretty bold claims about what the software should be able to do. Also, how legal would this actually be? The author plans to make this Open Source, which means that anyone would have the access to the code of the software. Shouldn’t this be a property of Nintendo? Isn’t there something that would prevent this developer from releasing the code to Nintendo hardware? Right now, I’m a bit skeptical at the prospect of being able to develop and release such a piece of software. The project seems really new and not too much documentation seems to be available on the site put up. However, I am rooting for this developer, for this could change the way everyone uses the Wii. Besides, someone will probably be able to hack the Wii someday, right?
it will be interesting to see how this develops as this could mean homebrew on the wii
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November 18th, 2006, 22:14 Posted By: gunntims0103
Here's a video on youtube showing the various uses of the wii in commercial form. Its funny and it shows the functionality of the wii with different games. There are just so many activities and different uses through each game. It also tries to depict how the wii is used by all.
Check it out via
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November 18th, 2006, 22:39 Posted By: gunntims0103
review via 1up
heres the anticipated ff3 game review
Remakes and rehashes are more or less a given these days -- if you make a good game, you can rest assured that 10 years down the line, someone will dump it onto a collection at worst, totally recreate it at best. Ah, if only we could force publishers to maintain a level of quality on par with Final Fantasy III for the DS. Then all these trips to the retro-gaming well would feel less like crass opportunism and more like enshrinement of the classics.
FFIII is no mere pile of throwaway shovelware; it's a total re-creation of an 8-bit game, largely faithful to the source material but thoughtfully retooled in places to play better. And look better, too -- this is easily the best-looking 3D you've ever seen on the DS. It probably helps that the director of the original game, who clearly wanted the new version to be the definitive version of his baby, supervised the DS remake. And for the most part, his efforts have paid off.
FFIII, of course, has never made it to the U.S. before. (The game most Americans know as "Final Fantasy III" was actually Final Fantasy VI, which will be making its way to the Game Boy Advance in due time.) Aside from brave importers and certain emulation aficionados, American gamers will find this remake to be, in effect, a brand-new Final Fantasy title.
It is, however, a decidedly early Final Fantasy title, even with its pretty 3D graphics and soaring remixed soundtrack. Back in the day, the even-numbered FF installments were daring experiments in storytelling and character development, while the odd-numbered chapters emphasized combat and skill-building. FFIII falls very much into that mold, which means that certain elements may seem somewhat dated for those weaned on the post-FFVII games. Combat is turn-based, the plot is almost an afterthought, there are no extravagant FMVs during the course of the game, magic skills are strictly regimented. And mid-dungeon save points? Not a chance.
This is an RPG for dedicated RPG enthusiasts. Many gamers will give up after being annihilated by random encounters in an out-of-the-way corner of the second village; others will despair at being wiped out by powerful bosses after 30 minutes of dungeon exploration and no opportunity to save. Even those who make it to the end may be put off by the enormity (and difficulty) of the final dungeon, where more than a dozen insanely powerful bosses highlight constant encounters with random enemies that are nearly as tough. There's not much story to reveal; the four party members have been given names, backgrounds, and inklings of personality, but there's not much more to the whole thing than a steady march to the final boss.
FFIII's real carrot-and-stick device is the Job system, which players may recognize from such games as Final Fantasy V and Tactics. In effect, characters can be freely reassigned a different character class at any time; these range from the basics (Warrior, Monk, White Mage) to more esoteric roles (Geomancer, Scholar, Evoker). This is the Job system's primordial form, lacking the mix-and-match options of the later games and rewarding consistency rather than experimentation. The more you use a job, the more powerful it becomes -- but even by the end of the game, you probably won't have maxed out a single one. Additionally, there's a penalty for swapping jobs; moving into a new job halves most of your stats for a few battles. The system has been tweaked and improved over the version that appeared in the original game, but it still feels limiting at times.
Maybe FFIII's greatest disadvantage is really just a matter of timing: It's bringing up the tail end of this fall's Final Fantasy blitz, which means it arrives within two weeks of FFXII and FFV Advance -- both of which, unfortunately for FFIII, are better games, with far more depth in story and gameplay alike. It feel particularly limp coming so soon after FFV, which essentially perfected the Job system while sporting a significantly more developed plot.
But it's important to appreciate FFIII for what it is -- a slice of history and a missing piece of a blockbuster series. Hardcore RPG players may enjoy it more than modern Final Fantasy titles, thanks to its emphasis on skill development and combat. Casual players may find themselves surprised by how addictive simple level-grinding and monster-slaying can be. There's a certain satisfaction in seeing your juiced-up Monk land 28 hits in a single round, and FFIII delivers that thrill in spades -- and there's enough challenge to make it a necessity rather than overkill. The result is one of the best portable RPGs to date, and a fine example of how to remake a classic.
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November 18th, 2006, 22:43 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo has been pitching multiplayer games heavily on Wii, and several early reviewers suggest buying at least one additional controller set to truly enjoy the console. If valid, maybe prospective console buyers need worry more about controller shortages than any Nintendo predicted console shortages. Probably not, but it would seem with the added focus on multiplayer games, Wii could go down as selling the most additional controllers at launch. So for those considering a Wii purchase this weekend, how many Wii controllers (both Nunchucks and Wiimotes) do you intend to purchase?
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November 18th, 2006, 22:48 Posted By: wraggster
Foolish Nintendo and the bloody none region free Wii means that any true gamer has a real hard decision to make, that decision is to buy either a US, Japanese or Europearn Wii.
Which one will you Buy and Why ?
Me im paying for a US one and i hope to get it at a fairly decent price. Reason why, well in the long run ill save money on the cheaper games from the USA.
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November 18th, 2006, 22:51 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo Co. is launching its Wii game console on Sunday, accompanied by a swell of buzz about its unusual motion-sensing controller.
While many Americans got their first taste of console gaming on Nintendo's products in the early 90s, it's now the underdog, trying to catch up to Sony Corp.'s PlayStation franchise.
Sony on Friday launched the PlayStation 3, a technical tour-de-force that costs between $500 and $600.
Nintendo's strategy is radically different. Its console costs $250 and doesn't boast the computing muscle of the PlayStation, but comes with a controller that the company says will revolutionize game play.
The Associated Press sat down with Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime for some questions on the eve of the launch.
AP: How will the Wii compete with the PlayStation 3?
Fils-Aime: I don't think the question is so much how are we going to compete with them, as how are they going to compete with our strategy: our strategy of going to the mass audience; our strategy of having a fantastic price point right from the start; our strategy of including a great pack-in game called "Wii Sports;" our strategy of having a wide range of support from all of our licensees. That really spells a successful approach for us.
AP: What makes the Wii special?
Fils-Aime: What makes the Wii so special is obviously the Wii Remote: the ability to play tennis with a flick of the wrist, to play baseball like you do it on the ball field. That allows the consumer to get more in the game by having a totally different type of interface, plus it allows game developers to create all new different types of games.
AP: Could you give some examples of these new games?
Fils-Aime: We have everything from a game like "Trauma Center," from Atlas, where you're the doctor, and you're using the precision of the Wii Remote to stitch up a patient and take shards of glass out of their arm — things of that nature. The new way to play "Madden Football," a brand new "Madden," where you act like the quarterback, where you hike the ball, pass. All of that allows for totally unique game play. ... That type of experience is why we think the consumer is so excited.
AP: Why does Nintendo have a lot more units available at launch than Sony?
Fils-Aime: I guess the question is why 'Why do they have so few?' We have properly executed our manufacturing and distribution system. We are going to have 4 million units worldwide by December 31, we're going to have 6 million units by March 31. We're starting, on launch day here in the Americas, with anywhere between five to ten times the volume that Sony had their first day, and we feel very good about that. Even with all that supply, though, we will run out of stock.
AP: Why is the price much lower than the PlayStation?
Fils-Aime: We specifically worked to create a value right from the start and so we made some very tough choices. Tough choices about not including a DVD player at the start, tough choices about not including high-definition capability at the start. That's because we wanted a mass-market price, and we believe the market will validate those decisions, come launch day on this Sunday.
AP: Why are you launching the Wii first here in the U.S., and only later in Japan, the opposite of what Sony is doing?
Fils-Aime: Well, the holiday time period really starts much earlier here in the Americas with our Thanksgiving coming next week, so it was imperative that we be in marketplace to support that holiday. It's not as important in Japan, where the holiday selling season doesn't kick off until early December, and then obviously we made the strategic decision to launch in Europe this year, and that's very important to us.
AP: You've announced a DVD-playing Wii for Japan. Is that something that's going to come to the United States?
Fils-Aime: The interesting thing is we've announced the capability to have a DVD-playing Wii. We haven't made specific announcements regarding timing or location. In terms of here in the Americas, the fact is that more than half of consumers here in the United States have more than two DVD players in the household, so we don't think the DVD-playing capability is something that's important, but it may be important in Japan or parts of Europe.
AP: I've noticed when trying out the Wii that the remote seemed to be fooled by lights in the background, and other reviewers have noted problems with sunlight. Is that something to take seriously?
Fils-Aime: In terms of the remote, we've done a tremendous amount of testing for the sensor bar as well as the remote itself, and any light sensitivity is very modest. We in our instruction manuals give the consumer information on how to really optimize for wherever they place it in the house. And we're confident that with that information the consumer will be just fine. It includes information on how to calibrate the Wii Remote so that any light interference is minimal.
AP: How long will it be till the next console?
Fils-Aime: For Nintendo? I mean, quite frankly, let us enjoy the launch of this one
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November 18th, 2006, 23:50 Posted By: wraggster
Spinal has posted a Beta of his game SensitiveDS, he says its not really in a playable state but you can try it out nonetheless.
Download and Give feedback Via Comments
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November 19th, 2006, 00:16 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via shiny shiny
Now, I know we can sometimes be a suspicious of companies who think all they have to do to sell to girls is to create a gadget that's a) pink and b) covered in Swarovski crystals (or "bling" as they like to call it), but even I have to admit that the people who "blinged" the DS Lite did a pretty good job. Lookit!
There are over 1,200 crystals on each limited edition console, all in varying shades of - what else? - pink, and you'll find them at the Multipazz boutique in Central London, where they're selling for £360. I'm deducting a few points for the fact that this design was apparently inspired by Paris Hilton, but other than that, good job done.
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November 19th, 2006, 00:21 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via shacknews
Some have wondered whether Wii's backwards compatibility supports the Game Boy to GameCube link cable. We tested the connectivity functionality in Square Enix's Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles and determined that, yes, it does. There did not appear to be any problems, and it should work in any connectivity-compatible game.
Yes, you can fit up to four Wavebirds on a Wii. Though the Wii's GameCube port plate looks different than GameCube's, the dimensions between the ports are the same, so anything that plugs into the Cube controller ports will plug into the Wii. Note that you will only be able to play GameCube games with an actual GameCube controller, so if you're planning on ditching your Cube when you pick up a Wii, keep at least one controller around. Accessories that plug into the memory card slots, such as Odama's microphone, also work. The Game Boy Player, however, will not, since that is specifically designed for the Cube's form factor.
If you keep a lot of GameCube peripherals plugged into the system, you may want to remove the hinged flaps that cover up that section of the machine. The Wii is actually designed for those to be easily removable. If you keep the system lying horizontally rather than vertically, you will be required to remove those if you want it to remain flat while the flaps are open.
GameCube games run in whatever output settings they originally supported, so if they supported widescreen on GameCube, they will support widescreen on Wii; if they didn't, they won't. Simple as that.
Heat and sound emissions
The Wii is very quiet. When it is not reading from a disc, any sound it makes is almost imperceptible unless you're right up there listening to it. When it is reading from a disc, there's a standard light operational whirring, but it is very minor. As far as heat, there is surprisingly little even during gameplay. You can feel some warmth around the back of the machine but it too is very minor.
SD card and flash memory functionality
Several questions were asked regarding what can be saved to SD cards. Unfortunately, many answers to these questions are not yet known. According to the manual, you can put game save data and Virtual Console games on your SD cards, and we already know that SD cards are used to to view pictures and movies, listen to MP3s, and load custom soundtracks into games (currently, only Excite Truck supports this). However, with the online network not going live until launch, we have not been able to test putting Virtual Console games on SD cards, and the system currently only seems to support saving games to the system's internal memory. Since the manual indicates greater SD card functionality, those options may be coming in the system's first update, coming at launch. This should eliminate the problem of running out of space on the internal 512MB of memory (although, to be honest, that should be plenty for a lot of people considering how small legacy games are). Nintendo has stated that though Virtual Console games can be stored on SD cards, they will be tied to the console on which they were purchased.
As far as saving GameCube games to the internal memory or to SD cards, this does not appear to be possible. The system actually goes into a separate backwards compability mode to run GameCube games, so it does not have access to SD card and flash memory. Those options may potentially be added in a software update at some point in the future, but that is speculative.
Nintendo DS connectivity
Though Nintendo has promised extensive connectivity between Nintendo DS and Wii, there does not currently seem to be any way to broadcast a wi-fi signal from a Wii to a DS that allows the DS to go online. That particular funtion is also not something Nintendo has ever specifically mentioned, so while it may be coming, we have no indication as such. What is more likely, and has indeed been stated as an idea on Nintendo's part, would be things like downloading demos and other content to a DS from a Wii system. Obviously, specific games will also have their own connectivity features; in the upcoming online Pokemon game for Wii, you are able to battle using Pokemon transferred from the Diamond and Pearl versions of the game on DS.
The end
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November 19th, 2006, 00:28 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via 411mania
Find out just what he had to say inside.
In an interview Greg Johnson, co-creator of the cult-classic Sega Genesis game Toe Jam & Earl confirmed he was developing an exclusive DS game, saying:
"I can probably say it's a game for the Nintendo DS and it involves very emotionally expressive AI stuff. It's really targeted at non-gamers, and like ToeJam & Earl it's quirky and kind of off-the-wall. I have a little development studio - just eight of us - in Point Richmond called HumaNature Studios and I work with a great bunch. It's been worth the wait to do this."
411 Mania Games will bring you more news on this as-yet untitled game as it develops.
Source: Gamasutra
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November 19th, 2006, 01:50 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via mercurynews
EASE OF PLAY FOR NOVICE GAMERS VALIDATES NINTENDO'S CLAIMS
By Mike Antonucci
Mercury News
Nintendo's Wii will be out in stores tomorrow.
NINTENDO
Nintendo's Wii will be out in stores tomorrow.
* Nintendo Wii: The games
Nintendo's heralded new game machine, the Wii, must pass one test above all others:
It has to prove that its much-vaunted ease of use makes it possible for anyone -- absolutely anyone -- to play video games.
The Wii (pronounced ``we'') goes on sale Sunday and features a one-hand, motion-sensing controller. Swinging and gesturing with it is all that's required to play some games.
There also will be plenty of complex games that use the controller in sophisticated ways. But the essence of the Wii is its ability to appeal to novices as well as veteran gamers.
And by novices, we mean totally raw newbies. Handing the Wii controller to someone who regards it as alien technology is the experiment of the moment for Wii reviewers. That's what I did almost immediately after Nintendo provided a Wii I could hook up at home.
I used a family member as my test subject. Any further identification would be cruel, although I have to note that I considered the person to represent an enormous challenge for the Wii. I thought this person might be so far out on the non-gamer end of the population that no controller -- no matter how magical -- would be able to compensate for a lack of, er, aptitude.
I was wrong.
My tester -- who was an exceptionally good sport about agreeing to this experience -- was able to immediately play a full game of tennis. We're talking about the Wii Sports brand of tennis, which boils down to just swinging the controller with the motions of a racket. You need a sense of timing, but the game is extremely forgiving of poor physical coordination. Getting a serve in is all but automatic.
And that's to the Wii's credit. Because the fun was ample, even though the game was anything but sophisticated or realistic.
Based on my own sampling of the tennis game -- and, no brag, I'm reasonably coordinated -- it takes some effort and ingenuity to win consistently. The game is ideal for casual family competition (which means buying extra controllers for the multi-player modes), but the computer controlled opponents are definitely not pushovers in the single-player mode.
Other newbie-inviting sports games include baseball, bowling and golf. They come with the console, no additional purchase required.
As for other launch games, which do require shelling out additional bucks, the two most prominent are Nintendo's ``The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess,'' an adventure fantasy, and Activision's ``Call of Duty 3,'' a World War II shooter. Also highly anticipated: Ubisoft's ``Red Steel,'' which uses the controller as a sword.
``Zelda'' requires an enormous commitment of time I didn't have right now. But based on many factors, including the ``Zelda'' series pedigree, it's almost certainly a four-star game. I don't yet have the Wii version of ``Call of Duty 3'' or ``Red Steel.''
Two games were available that I could sample extensively:
• ``Super Monkey Ball Banana Blitz'' (Sega, available at launch). This features monkeys inside balls, which you roll through twisting, sloping courses. I'm simplifying, but trust me, for many adults and children this will be a sensational party game, in part because of the directional waving you have to do with the controller.
Unfortunately, the game highlights how retro -- and not in a good way -- the Wii's graphics can be. Fair warning: I've never played any curving-spinning-undulating ``Monkey Ball'' game without getting dizzy and almost nauseated within five minutes.
• ``Excite Truck'' (Nintendo, available at launch). Although this game has elicited months of raves in preview sessions, it's still surprising how good it is. Playing it at length creates a near addiction.
It's the kind of arcade-style racing game that makes crashing part of the strategy, as well as going airborne at nutty speeds. You hold the controller in a horizontal position with two hands -- a steering bar instead of a steering wheel.
That works so well that it instantly raises a question that probably will become famously repeated among Wii owners: Why didn't anyone do this with a game controller before now?
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November 19th, 2006, 02:15 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via playfuls
Even before the actual launch of Nintendo's console in the US (morning is almost here), several Wii games could already be acquired this week in North American shops. In just a few hours, their number will reach 20, and they will be joined by another 13 by the end of this year, plus 30 classic Virtual Console games for the Wii, in the likes of Mario or Zelda. Clearly a richer collection than the one offered by Sony, but only in terms of quantity. The quality of the Wii launch line-up, on the other hand, looks more diluted than the PS3 one, as it includes plenty of shaky titles based on cinema and TV licenses.
Like we did in our previous story with the PlayStation 3 games, we'll jump right to the point:
Wii launch games:
- Avatar: The Last Airbender
- Call of Duty 3
- Cars: The Videogame
- Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2
- Excite Truck
- GT Pro Series
- Happy Feet
- Madden NFL 07
- Marvel: Ultimate Alliance
- Monster 4X4 World Circuit
- Rampage: Total Destruction
- Rayman Raving Rabbids
- Red Steel
- SpongeBob SquarePants: The Creature from the Krusty Krab
- Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz
- The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy
- The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
- Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam
- Trauma Center: Second Opinion
- Wii Sports (inclus cu fiecare consolă Wii)
By Christmas, the list will strenghten with titles such as Elebits, Far Cry: Vengeance, Need for Speed Carbon and Splinter Cell Double Agent, and like I said some other sub-par games. Midway and THQ are the main culprints for poluting these lists with all sorts of junk, while Ubisoft remains the third-party publisher with the most solid games catalogue for this launch.
In the future, however, things could easily change, because Namco-Bandai recently announced that they will support the next-gen consoles with 10 PS3 / Xbox 360 games, and 30 Wii games! Some of them are listed on GoNintendo, but the vast majority are still shrouded in mystery.
For those of you taking a keen interest in classic games, most of these have already been known for some time: Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Donkey Kong, Super Mario 64, Sonic the Hedgehog, Golden Axe any many more. A more complete list can be found on CVG. And speaking of which, the Wii manual (actually Joystiq) warns us that some Virtaul Console games can only be played using a classic controller, which is sold separately for the Wii console (even though Nintendo previously annouced that all retro games will be playable with a GameCube controller).
And that's about it, for now, about the Wii games. But there's still plenty left to say about the new Wii and PlayStation 3 consoles... *yawn* maybe tomorrow... *yawn* or the day after tomorrow.
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November 19th, 2006, 02:19 Posted By: gunntims0103
The Wii Channel has officially launched. I just loaded up a meek 2,000 points onto my Wii and purchased Donkey Kong for my Wii. This video gives you a quick overview of the channel and the process of finding and downloading a game. Kinda cool stuff, though getting into the Channel takes a bit too long. I suspect it's that initial connection that's slowing down the process.
This means that the wii channel has officailly launched view a youtube video via kotaku
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November 19th, 2006, 05:09 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via today.reuter
NEW YORK/LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - More than 1,500 die-hard Nintendo fans, some of whom camped out overnight, eagerly awaited the Sunday release of the company's Wii video game console, the latest entrant in the $30 billion global game market.
At the Times Square Toys "R" Us in New York, where a midnight(0500 GMT) launch party was planned, a line of approximately 1,000 gamers snaked around the block on Saturday.
More than 500 enthusiasts gathered for the West Coast release at the GameStop store at Hollywood's Universal City Walk.
Game Console Wars
Photo
The video game industry's own clash of the titans reboots this week with the midnight launch of Sony's PlayStation 3 and Sunday's debut of Nintendo's Wii.
Full coverage
"We have enough product to satisfy the demand that's anticipated," Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime told Reuters.
Instead of trying to steal hard-core gamers from Microsoft and Sony, which have already released the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 consoles, Nintendo hopes to expand the traditionally male video game audience by luring new players.
Nintendo priced the Wii at $250, compared with the $600 premium PS3 and the $400 top-end Xbox 360.
The Kyoto-based Nintendo Co. Ltd., which created video game characters Super Mario and Donkey Kong, has hooked girls and seniors with its "Nintendogs" pet training games and its "Brain Age" cognitive fitness title for its hand-held DS machine that is a break-out hit.
The device offers touch-screen and voice recognition capabilities that allow users to "pet" and speak commands to their dog or to write and speak answers to brain teasers.
Nintendo has taken a similar approach with the Wii.
'MAKES YOU FEEL IN THE GAME'
The console's computing power is dwarfed by the Xbox 360 and the PS3. And the Wii does not offer the lifelike, high-definition graphics its bigger rivals boast.
Still, the Wii has captivated cynical gamers with its one-handed, motion-sensitive controller that lets users simulate fishing, playing tennis or shooting a bow and arrow.
Game Console Wars
Photo
The video game industry's own clash of the titans reboots this week with the midnight launch of Sony's PlayStation 3 and Sunday's debut of Nintendo's Wii.
Full coverage
"That's what makes you feel in the game," said Sergio Gonzalez, 18, who along with friends Anton Stockton and Tulgat Vandandorj, has been at the front of the Wii line at a Los Angeles Best Buy since Friday afternoon.
Gonzalez and his buddies say they will not flip their Wiis on Internet auction site eBay.com -- where people are selling reserved Wiis at an average price of $605, according to eBay Market Research.
Waiting in line in Times Square, 17-year-old Xavier Herrera had the same plan: "I'm playing it tonight."
People who got their hands on the PS3 early also sold the system on eBay, reeling in more than four times its retail price.
Nintendo expects to ship 4 million Wii consoles globally by December 31, double the number of PS3s expected by year end.
Nintendo's last console, the GameCube, sold 21 million units globally to land in third place, behind Sony's PlayStation 2 and Microsoft's Xbox. The company sold 11 million GameCubes in the United States and intends to double that number with the Wii.
Video game analyst David Cole, president of DFC Intelligence, said Nintendo is offering a one-two punch at launch with its games "The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess" and "Wii Sports."
"I'm a 'Zelda' fan. I have to get 'Zelda'," said Isaiah Johnson, 29, first in line at Times Square.
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November 19th, 2006, 05:11 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via c/net
LOS ANGELES--While the previous few days have been filled with headlines trumpeting the thousands of dollars some people have seemingly been willing to pay for PlayStation 3s on eBay, the same mania doesn't seem to be extending to the Nintendo Wii.
The Wii--which retails for $250--launches tonight across North America. And on eBay, one can buy the rights to one of the pre-ordered consoles for roughly $500.
Now, that's double the retail cost. Which, extrapolated to the PS3's top-end $600 price tag equates to $1,200. And in fact, PS3s are now selling on eBay for just a little bit more than that.
But pure numbers show that the buzz--at least in terms of what people are forking over to get their hands on one of the consoles now--is still in the PS3 column.
On the other hand, that could well be because Nintendo hasn't been predicting the kind of supply shortages that Sony did. Thus, it shouldn't be too difficult to find a Wii in the coming weeks. The PS3? Not so easy.
Anyway, this likely means that the folks lining up across this great land to buy a Wii might actually be keeping their Wiis. Unlike the PS3 queuers, who said, en masse, that their newly-bought booty was going straight up for sale.
Ah, supply and demand.
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November 19th, 2006, 05:16 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via gizmodo
We're here in either one of the best or one of the worst places on the planet, depending on your perspective—Times Square in NYC. The Wii launch party is set to start in about 3 hours, and by my estimation there are at least 1,000 people lined up. Word on the line is that there are 5,000 Wiis inside the store waiting to be snatched up, so there should be a lot less violence and bloodshed come midnight compared to what we saw earlier this week with the PS3 frenzy. Check
back for more reports from this agoraphobics nightmare throughout the
evening.
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November 19th, 2006, 05:22 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via engadget
We realize there are still only a select few of you who actually have Wiis at this very moment (although those on the Eastern seaboard will have theirs in just a few short hours). But you might like to know that our Wii finally got its system update (huzzah) and is able to access the Wii store. The points are valued at a cent per, so 1,000 Wii points will set you back $10 US. Which is also what N64 games cost; SNES games will run $8, while NES and Genesis games run $5. Click on for a tour of the store!
view a full spectrum of images of the wii shop channel featuring downloads, applications, and features via engadget
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November 19th, 2006, 05:30 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via gamespy
check out this sleek looking controller
How does the cool-looking new controller perform on those oldies-but-goodies?
I managed to get my hands on one of the brand new Wii Classic Controllers today, so I thought I'd share my initial impressions here along with some super hi-res photos of the device itself. The Classic Controller is expressly designed to work with the Virtual Console games which are purchased via the Wii Shop channel. The CC connects to a Wii remote in the same what that a Nunchuck controller does, which I was surprised to see. I had initially assumed it would plug straight into the console in one of the GameCube ports, but this makes much more sense.
The unit itself feels nice and robust, but is fairly lightweight. The dual analog sticks are a little bit to close together for my own personal tastes, but both are covered in a good grippy rubber cover, making manipulation of the sticks nice and simple. The d-pad doesn't feel stiff at all and actually is very reminiscent of the old SNES d-pad -- this is a good thing. The X, Y, A, and B buttons are a decent size and seem to have a nice amount of travel in them.
There's the plus and minus buttons in the middle along with the home button to access the Wii's main menu. The former also double as the select and start buttons for the classic games. On the top of the controller are the L and R shoulder buttons which again feel quite similar to those of the SNES. Also on top are two smaller ZL and ZR buttons, and slap-bang in the middle is a small release switch which appears to open and close a clasp on the back of the joypad. I'm not too sure what clips in there, but I guess we'll find out in due course!
I have very briefly taken the controller for a spin with my newly downloaded copy of the N64's Super Mario 64. Aside from the game looking awesome (just how I remember it) the controller displayed no signs of compatibility issues, and it worked like a charm. I'm confident that other games (I'm off to grab the SNES' F-Zero now) should work in a similarly pleasing manner.
The Wii Classic Controller looks to be a great addition to the Wii's link of first-party peripherals. You'll be able to check it out for yourselves when the item hits the stores tomorrow along with everything you've been waiting for. It's gonna cost you $20, but I reckon it's well worth the investment. Here's to some great classic gaming!
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November 19th, 2006, 05:34 Posted By: gunntims0103
Turns out that first update for the Wii did a couple of things. It changed the boot-up screen, tinkered slightly with a couple of menus and added the ability to manage the data on your SD card. In particular, you can now transfer game saves and virtual console games to and from an SD card as advertised.
check out this video through youtube via kotaku
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November 19th, 2006, 17:30 Posted By: Dee-Lite
Now that the revolution has begun, there's no doubt that many of you Wii owners have been dying to create the ultimate Wii Mii character.
So I ask everyone to post up a photo your Mii for us all to see! Also what is your Mii's name and who is it supposed to look like?
In fact, anything to do with Mii's should be posted here, i.e. what is Mii mingle mode? Have you populated Mii on your Wii yet?
I'm surely many people, like myself, are eager to see a lot more of the Mii features.
As i'm from UK, sadly I can't create my Mii yet so Wii owners have bragging rights for the next few weeks!!
Who's up first? Its over to you now...
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November 19th, 2006, 19:13 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via gamespot
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif.--At the stroke of midnight on the west coast, the launch of the next console generation came and went, as the Nintendo Wii debuted to a crowd of eager fans, many of whom had begun to line up on Friday morning in anticipation. The first Wii sale came as the conclusion of a day-long celebration held at the EB Games retail store in the Universal Studios theme park, just outside of Los Angeles.
Along the way, gamers and passers-by were treated to live music from a deejay, acrobatic performances, loads of Wii-branded schwag and, of course, Wii and Nintendo DS game demos galore. One of the more interesting demos on hand were specially modified Segway scooters outfitted with high definition monitors, periodically winding their way through the crowd and literally bring the games to the people.
As the final hours ticked off, the line, which only hours earlier had featured only a few hundred people had grown dramatically, roughly doubling in size and curling up and over a walkway on the opposite side of the Citywalk shopping area. Late in the day, store employees handed out wristbands to those in line, guaranteeing a Wii for everyone with a wristband. Even after the bands ran out however, folks were still taking their chances and lining up, hoping to get lucky and snag a console.
On hand for the festivities at the launch was Nintendo of America senior vice president of marketing George Harrison, who briefly stepped behind the counter at the EB Games store to help sell the first Wii console. When asked about how production has gone for the first-batch of Wii consoles, Harrison was upbeat, saying the company is still on target to have four million units available worldwide by the end of the year. "It's the first time we've actually launched in all territories at the same time. [In the past] Europe was usually a few months later, but Europe is also launching as well." Harrison went on to say that he expects Nintendo to have shipped two million units in the United States alone by the end of December or early January.
One of the Nintendo fans in the very back of the line was Cynthia Hocker of La Crescenta, Calif., who also happened to be the very last person to receive a wristband, guaranteeing a Wii for her 15-year-old son, who will likely be more excited than most to receive it. "It was a Chrismas present," said Hocker, "but he's going to have heart surgery in three weeks and I'm going to give it to him after the heart surgery so he can play it while he's laying down."
Back in the front of the line, the Mario-hat- and red-suspender-clad Jonathan Mann, who, in front of a throng of camera-toting journalists and Nintendo staffers, proudly walked to the counter just after midnight to purchase the first Wii of the night. Holding the console above his head for all the media to see, Mann was enthusiastic about his purchase, no matter how long it took him to finally get it. "I'm really excited. You have no idea how excited I am. Seriously. I've been waiting for this since 1991."
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November 19th, 2006, 19:16 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via gizmodo
Despite the cold weather, Nintendo fans lined up outside the Nintendo Store in Rockefeller Plaza Saturday night in hopes of getting their hands on a Nintendo Wii. The party wasn't as big as the official launch in Times Square (and nowhere near as big as Sony's event), but die-hard Nintendo fans like Anthony (shown above dressed as Link) camped outside the store in hopes of snagging one of the first consoles to hit the States.
Hit the jump for a look at other Nintendo characters waiting in line.
Pat (far right) secured the number one spot by arriving at the store Thursday night. He, Mario, and friends assured me they wouldn't sell their Wiis on eBay.
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November 19th, 2006, 19:20 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via computerandvideogames
19-Nov-2006 Wii has landed in the US! CVG brings you the low-down on the hardware and the launch games
The waiting is finally over - for the US anyway. We brits still have three more painful weeks of waiting to endure, but today is the day that gamers all over the US will finally get their hands on the Wii.
If you've been avidly hunting for every scrap of news on the Wii for the past agonising year of excitement and anticipation, there's probably nothing you don't already know about the Wii - except for what it's like to hold it on your hands.
We've put together these impressions to paint you a clear picture of what the hardware is like, how well it functions and, for your purchase-listing convenience, a quick run-through all 20 launch games on sale in the US right now. If you're thinking about getting the Wii, or are already on the pre-order list, this is all you need to know.
In the box
First thing's first, this is exactly what's packed into those lush white Wii boxes:
* Wii Console
* One Wii Remote (and two batteries)
* One Nunchuk expansion controller
* Sensor Bar
* Composite Cable (red, white and yellow connectors)
* Power cable
* Wii Sports (sadly not in its own DVD case)
* Huge wad of user manuals
The Hardware
The Wii is small. That's the first thing that hits you when you remove the packaging and see its tiny frame. You may have heard Nintendo's approximation of the Wii being roughly the size of three DVD cases, but you don't realise how small that is until you sit it next your TV.
It's shiny white casing oozes style, and because it's such a bright white it's not as prone to glaring fingerprinting. We also noted how solid the console feels - it's small but feels weighty enough to give it that 'crammed with technology' feel, if you know what we mean.
Hooking the console up is a fairly ordinary process, the only extra task being to connect and position the Wii's all-important Sensor Bar. The cable connecting it to the Wii is several feet long, so no worries there.
The Sensor, as said before, can go above or below your TV screen, but really should be as central as possible. If your TV is on a large, flat surface you can dump the Sensor on the surface just in front of the screen. But we find placing it on top of the TV, and maybe securing it with a small, unnoticeable strip of double-sided sticky tape helps secure it nicely.
Once set up, you tap the little power button and on comes that slick blue light around the CD bay. That's when you'll another one of the Wii's significant attributes - it's absolutely silent. If the room is completely without sound, you might just hear the soft purr of the tiny fan in the back of the machine - with your ear pressed against the machine.
In fact, the most noise the console makes is the smooth buzz of the front-loading disc drive sucking in a game disc - although not at all an unpleasant sound. The 360 disc drive has a painful 'clunk' as it comes to a complete close, but there's no such discomfort with the Wii.
Inserting and ejecting discs is as smooth as you could ever hope. You barely need to insert the disc before the machine detects it and springs into action, gently taking it from your hands and slotting it into place, ready for play.
Hit the eject button and a few seconds later the disc slowly slides out, stopping with the central hole just outside the drive, so you can take hold of your precious games by the outside edge and middle without fingerprinting the data surface. It accepts the the smaller GameCube discs with equal ease - you insert the disc roughly near the centre of the drive and it'll do the rest.
Slam the batteries into the Remote and you're almost ready to go. First you have to get the wireless Remote to talk with your Wii, which you do by hitting both sychro buttons - one under the small flap on the front of the Wii and the other under the battery cover of the back of the Remote itself. It only takes a second or two, you're ready to go (you can read a detailed analysis of the look and feel of the Wii Remote here). Then it's onto the games.
The games
There are 20 games available right now in the US, and here's a quick run-down of what they're all about.
Wii Sports: The packaged Wii Sports is the perfect game to both show off the Wii's abilities, and help you become accustom to them. It features simple motion-controlled recreations of five popular sports: boxing, bowling, tennis, golf and baseball. Basic in both gameplay and graphical detail, but great, simple, family-friendly fun.
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess: After four years of development, Twilight Princess finally arrives and it has been worth the wait. Twilight's new realistic look, epic story, and enormous size are the factors that have fans deeming it the true sequel to the legendary Ocarina of Time. And those who are lucky enough to have finished it already say it's even better. Read our review NOW!
Red Steel: The first-person action game everyone's dying to get their hands on, Red Steel uses the Wii Remote to put a gun and a katana sword in your hands - literally. Shoot with the Remote like a gun or swing it like a sword as you battle a powerful Yakuza organisation in an attempt to save your kidnapped fiancé. Get our full verdict here.
Excite Truck: Nintendo swaps bikes for trucks in the latest of it's 'Excite' series. Tilting the Wii Remote like a wheel to steer your truck, Excite Truck has you rallying around courses at ridiculous F-Zero-like speeds, leaping off ramps and flying hundreds of feet through the air. This is sadly not due out in UK until February 2007.
Call of Duty 3: The latest episode in what is widely considered to be the best WWII series ever, Call of Duty 3 on Wii takes full advantage of the motion-sensing controller, having you point at the screen to shoot your gun, wave the controller to fight, steer it to drive jeeps and much, much more. Look out for the full review on CVG this week.
Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz: We're massive fans of the Monkey Ball series and couldn't wait to get our hands on the new Wii game, which uses the tilt-sensing capabilities of the Wii Remote to let you tilt the stages with your own hand. And with 50 motion-controlled mini games squeezed into the package too, this is one game we're definitely adding to our Wii collection.
Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam: Putting a spin on the traditional Tony Hawk's formula, Downhill Jam sees you grinding and tricking your way through a series of downhill race courses. It also has one of the most interesting control systems, using the Wii Remote like a steering wheel to direct your skater, while the D-pad and buttons perform tricks.
Marvel Ultimate Alliance: Over 100 Marvel characters appear in this dungeon-crawling-style brawler. As you fight your way through reams of enemies, you earn stat points that allow you to boost your selected team of heroes, and teach them new moves. With the Wii Remote, you have to perform a dramatic range of motion gestures to activate special powers.
Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2: The Dragon Ball Z fighting games are some of the fastest and most chaotic open-environment fighting games we've ever played, and the sequel comes with more characters, bigger battle environments (they're huge) and, on the Wii, new special moves that are activated by movement.
Trauma Center: Second Opinion: The fantastic surgery sim on DS gets a Wii makeover, using the pointer functionality of the Wii Remote to near perfection. You play as a doctor in a hospital and perform a number of mostly totally unrealistic operations in a strict time limit. It may sound dull but it's one of the most challenging and tense games we've ever played. And great fun.
Madden NFL '07: We Brits don't really care about Madden games, but the Americans can never get enough of it, so getting the latest in the long-running series on Wii for launch is great news for the console. Interestingly, the Wii version has players flicking the Remote in the direction they want to pass the ball. That's cool, but we still don't get the rules.
Rampage: Total Destruction: The old arcade classic is back and looking... mostly the same, actually. Yes, the graphics have been made 3D (yet, still looks shockingly dated) the gameplay sticks to its original 2D format, giving players control of a giant beast and letting them loose to tear down a city and take on the army. It's mindless gaming for the destructive little boy in you.
Happy Feet: The little dancing penguins of the motion picture tap-dance their way into the world of videogames in an adventure that features a range of different gameplay. You will use the Wii Remote to make the penguins swim through water levels, race down icy slopes on their bellies, and dance in rhythm-action stages. One for the kids, no doubt.
The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy: Based on the Network Cartoon of the same name, The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy is a battle adventure game that has you waving the Wii Remote to fight your way through hordes of enemies with a selection of 15 playable characters. Another game for the young ones, this is also one of few Wii games that is playable with a GameCube pad.
Avatar: The Last Airbender: While we won't admit to having watched and liked the Nickelodion cartoon, Avatar is... *ahem* a pretty cool series featuring a monk-like boy named Aang who, with the elite power to control wind, is the only hope the world has against an evil empire. Your standard 3D adventure, with four playable characters, big bosses and puzzle-filled levels.
Cars: Picking up from where the film left off, the game gives you control of the starring racer, Lightning McQueen, as he races his way toward his ambition of winning the new prestigious Piston Cup. You are free to roam a huge virtual recreation of their home town, Radiator Springs, and many other locations from the film, competing in races with other talking vehicles.
SpongeBob SquarePants: Creature from the Krusty Krab: The hilarious underwater sponge stars in this action adventure. Essentially a conversion of the GameCube game, each of its many gameplay scenarios will have you using the Wii Remote in various ways to control the action. Sounds like it could be fun although, to be honest, from what we've played it's actually not so good.
GT Pro Series: This is a straight port of the 2003-released Japan-only GameCube game (called GT Cube), with the same cars, tracks and graphics. The only change here is that it uses the Wii Remote like a steering wheel to guide the cars around the courses. We're not believers, but Ubisoft is packaging the game with a free steering wheel controller attachment to temp to you in.
Monster 4X4 World Circuit: Also from Ubisoft, this truck racer is not as fast or extreme as Excite Truck, but does feature a Mario Kart-style weapons system that has you blowing up opposing truck with items picked up on course. It also has an interesting stunt system; move the controller in circular motions as you launch off ramps to flip and spin your truck.
Rayman Raving Rabbids: Instead of your usual 3D platforming adventure, this time Rayman stars in a mini game-based adventure featuring more than 30 different gameplay styles. You complete a wide range of comedy challenges, including cow-throwing, flying and plunger-gun shooting levels as you try to defeat the evil race of Rabbids.
The UK launch
December 8 is the big day for Europe. We'll be bringing you detailed coverage on the Wii in the run up to the launch, reviews of the biggest games, competitions and much more. CVG have got it covered.
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November 19th, 2006, 19:24 Posted By: gunntims0103
Latest Zelda title available for both Nintendo Wii and GameCube in North America
November 19, 2006
Today, Nintendo released the latest title in the hit Zelda series of games: The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. The new Zelda title returns to the beloved style of Ocarina of Time with new gameplay and artistic features. The game is available for both the Nitnendo Wii and the Nintendo GameCube consoles.
Twilight Princess is a much-anticipated title for Zelda fans, since it's the first fully 3D Zelda title since the Nintendo 64. The previous GameCube game in the series used a cartoon-like, cell-shaded animation method that left some gamers longing for the epic feel of Ocarina of Time.
The Wii version of the game makes use of that system's improved graphics, as well as the controller style of the Wii Remote and Nunchuk to add more involved gameplay.
Zelda arrives on store shelves today alongside the newly-released Nintendo Wii. Most gamers waiting in line to buy a Wii in various locations commented that Twilight Princess would be the first game they play on the new system.
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November 19th, 2006, 19:45 Posted By: wraggster
From what we understand, your chances of snagging a Wii last night or today are, statistically speaking, a helluva lot better than getting your hands on a PlayStation 3. Not that demand doesn't outstrip supply on both. So did you get one? How do you like it? If not, that's cool, no shame in the game if you tried. But we want you to tell us about it. What happened? Did you get bum-rushed and smack into a pole like that one guy? Good luck out there everybody
As i live in the UK im hoping that my over priced Wii from SuccessHK arrvies this week - wraggster
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November 19th, 2006, 19:53 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime has defended the company's hardcore credentials, arguing that it will continue to make "big epic games" despite its desire to expand into new markets.
Nintendo Wii goes on sale in the USA today, 19th November, with demand expected to be as high as it was for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, and while Nintendo has repeatedly made it clear that it does aim to satisfy "core gamers", the success of the DS has led some to worry that it's focusing too heavily on the other two areas it's specified as important - re-igniting interest in disillusioned gamers and attracting new players.
Not so says Fils-Aime, who responded to such a question from GameSpot by saying, "The answer to that is Zelda, right?"
"For the passionate fan who wants something a bit more challenging, a deep story, 70 hours of gameplay, it's Zelda. It's all there, it's nine dungeons long, it is an immense area - that alone should stop all of the worries as to whether Nintendo will continue to make big, epic games. We absolutely will," he said.
"We're also going to do other things to bring that NES or SNES fan who now has three kids, a job, doesn't have time to play games; we're going to bring him Link to the Past that he enjoyed back in those days and has a great opportunity to play again on the Virtual Console.
"We want it all, quite frankly. So when we talk about bringing gaming back to the masses it is both for this core fan, which we will continue to have great content for, and this new expanded gamer who either hasn't played in 20 years or hasn't played at all," he concluded.
Fils-Aime also revealed that he expects Super Mario Galaxy, Metroid Prime 3 and Super Smash Bros. Brawl to launch in 2007 ("Based on what I know today, the answer is yes"), with Nintendo's Wii Play package of mini-games to arrive in the first few months of next year too.
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November 19th, 2006, 20:15 Posted By: wraggster
from Gamespot:
Already on the Virtual Console, users can purchase Wii Points and download games from older systems. NES games cost 500 Wii Points ($5), Super NES and Sega Genesis games are 800 Wii Points ($8), and Nintendo 64 games are 1,000 Wii Points ($10). There weren't any TurboGrafx-16 games on the service at press time, but Nintendo has said pricing for those will start at 600 Wii Points ($6).
While the games are expected to be faithful re-creations of the originals instead of the type of revamped or rearranged arcade classics that have been sold on the Xbox 360's Marketplace, GameSpot editors found at least one new trick had been added. After quitting a session of Sonic the Hedgehog back to the Wii channel menu, and then loading the game back up, the editors found that the Wii had automatically saved the editors' place in the game, and resumed play right where it had left off. Also, while downloading games, users are shown a Mario-themed progress bar that shows the mascot plumber or his brother Luigi running across the screen, hitting coin blocks and collecting coins off the ground.
Mario serves as the download progress bar.
Nintendo announced last month that the following titles would be available on the Virtual Console by the end of the year.
NES
Mario Bros.
The Legend of Zelda
Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong Jr.
Ice Hockey
Pinball
Soccer
Tennis
Urban Champion
Wario's Woods
Baseball
Solomon's Key
A dozen titles dating back to the '80s are already available.
SNES
F-Zero
SimCity
Nintendo 64
Super Mario 64
Sega Genesis
Sonic the Hedgehog
Altered Beast
Golden Axe
Columns
Ecco the Dolphin
Gunstar Heroes
Space Harrier II
Toe Jam & Earl
Ristar
Dr. Robotnik's Mean Bean Machine
TurboGrafx-16
Bonk's Adventure
Super Star Soldier
Victory Run
Bomberman '93
Dungeon Explorer
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November 19th, 2006, 20:34 Posted By: wraggster
Interesting article from Joystiq
Pure conjecture, but bear with us:
The Wii is inexpensive to manufacture. Super inexpensive, even.
The Wii is architected for very low power consumption
The Wii is tiny. It's the smallest of the consoles, and box space is taken up by the optical disc drive, connectors for controllers, memory, video cables, and other stuff that'd be completely uneccessary in a mobile device
Motion-sensing capabilities can be embedded in the device housing itself
Of all three new consoles, the Wii is certainly closest to portability. Home modders like Ben Heckendorn will likely create a portable (but chunky) Wii without too much difficulty. Could a portable version of the device be far away?
We're not suggesting the hypothetical Wiiboy will be released in time for this Consumermas, but 2008-2009 doesn't seem like a stretch, does it?
Call to action: let's got a hot mockup up in here. Though the Wii is a GameCube at heart, it certainly doesn't look like one; it's time for photoshop pros to whip up some Wiiboy mockups.
Gamecube Portable Mockup via Comments
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November 19th, 2006, 20:48 Posted By: wraggster
Those crazy fools at Smashmywii have done exactly that, they smashed a lovely new Nintendo Wii to bits.
Screens Via Comments
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November 19th, 2006, 21:07 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via ign
now that the wii's out there seems to be so many concept art going around. From things like a portable gamecube to a docking port for the wii remote. This is no different. A concept of a gun, where the wii remote is placed in the front. This would work very will and give a combat/shooter feel to the wii. The wii makes you feel like your in the game. Even better with this concept.
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November 19th, 2006, 21:08 Posted By: wraggster
CraigT posted a new version of his Spectrum emu for DS:
Heres whats new:
Fixed ARM7/ARM9 synchronisation to prevent sound corruption.
Altered ADD IX,SP and ADD IY,SP instructions to fix crash in Bubble Bobble.
Altered ROM protection to fix crashes in Megabucks and others.
Altered HALT instruction to fix crashes in Chaos, Critical Mass and others.
Corrected S flag behaviour in BIT instructions to fix Sabre Wulf.
Added button support to the file browser. Files can now be selected using the d-pad and A buttons.
Added auto scrolling to the file browser. Display can now be scrolled by holding down the buttons.
Filenames are now displayed in the correct case in the file browser.
Added .Z80 loading support.
Added .Z80 saving support.
Implemented REIN fat library to increase hardware compatibility.
The following games which did not work in the previous version are now working:
Arkanoid
Asterix and the Magic Cauldron
Bubble Bobble
Chaos (Some graphical corruption remains)
Critical Mass
MegaBucks
Sabre Wulf (Fixed rhino behaviour)
Uridium
Zynaps
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November 19th, 2006, 21:10 Posted By: wraggster
Alekmaul has posted some news of his Arcade emulator for the Nintendo DS, here via translation (crappy google) is the news:
Again small news of MarcaDS which arrives soon at 100 emulated Games (^^ yes yes). Green Beret and his clones (thus Mr. Goemon) are now playable and at the same speed when arcade (it is a pity because I could make the play faster ). Scramble is now also playable… I thus attack the clones of this last (thus galaxian and frogger) in order to arrive at 100 plays and I release this version 3.0… thus… the next week I think! For information, go on the page of MarcaDS, small video (at the foot of the page) of Green Beret on V30 is available
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November 19th, 2006, 21:13 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via next gen wars
"The next generation of gaming is upon us, and the console wars has begun. NexGen Wars.com has spent countless hours researching sales facts from dozens of sources to track the sales of the consoles and monitor the next generation of console wars between the Microsoft Xbox 360, the Sony Playstation 3, and the Nintendo Wii."
My first question would be how on earth are these stats updated so quickly (refresh page to view updated counts) and second.. WHO WILL WIN?
Wii is outselling PS3 already? It's been half a day!
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November 19th, 2006, 21:25 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo of America put out a list of new game releases for the first quarter of next year on the Wii, DS, and GameBoy Advance. No word yet if Wii Play will include a Wii remote controller like it does in Europe and Japan when the Wii launches there on December 2nd & 8th.
Wii release dates are on:
January 15th, 2007: WarioWare: Smooth Moves and Wii Play;
March 5th, 2007: Mario Party 8.
DS releases arrive on:
January 22nd, 2007: Hotel Dusk: Room 215;
February 5th, 2007: Diddy Kong Racing DS;
March 5th, 2007: Wario: Master of Disguise;
March 19th, 2007: Custom Robo Arena.
One GameBoy Advance release on:
February 5th, 2007: Final Fantasy VI Advance.
Via Videogamesblogger
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November 19th, 2006, 21:25 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo of America put out a list of new game releases for the first quarter of next year on the Wii, DS, and GameBoy Advance. No word yet if Wii Play will include a Wii remote controller like it does in Europe and Japan when the Wii launches there on December 2nd & 8th.
Wii release dates are on:
January 15th, 2007: WarioWare: Smooth Moves and Wii Play;
March 5th, 2007: Mario Party 8.
DS releases arrive on:
January 22nd, 2007: Hotel Dusk: Room 215;
February 5th, 2007: Diddy Kong Racing DS;
March 5th, 2007: Wario: Master of Disguise;
March 19th, 2007: Custom Robo Arena.
One GameBoy Advance release on:
February 5th, 2007: Final Fantasy VI Advance.
Via Videogamesblogger
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November 19th, 2006, 21:29 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via playfuls
In the battle of giants, the outsider seems to be the Wiiner. Unlike Sony this year or Microsoft last year, Nintendo is delighting its fans from the beginning with plenty of enticing titles and a stockpile of Wiis.
Nintendo has recently been considered sort of an outsider after Sony and Microsoft entered its gaming turf and conquered it. From the leader’s position, Nintendo slowly slide to an unsatisfying third place and few analysts would give Nintendo a chance to win back its place a year ago, when MS launched the Xbox 360.
But one should never underestimate the power of… the Wii. Nor should one forget the proverbial imagination of Nintendo’s president, Mr. Satoru Iwata. He is responsible for all recent successes in the company’s the gaming and marketing field, including the calm, but not quiet, launch of the Wii console.
He first “directed” the worldwide hit of the Nintendo DS portable console. Compared to Sony’s PSP, the Nintendo DS now surpasses its more complex rival by a factor of five to one, at least in Japan (the third most important gaming market in the world). Now, it seems that the Wii console is again in front of its Sony counterpart, with a sufficient provision at launch, a serious and intelligent marketing campaign behind it and, as a consequence, a lot of interest from fans.
Shortages for PlayStation 3 in the US (only 400,000 consoles launched two days ago, but that is just official numbers…) have stirred up masses and violence eventually burst among customers waiting in line.
Unlike Sony, who invested a lot of money in a PR campaign that has eventually proven disastrous, Nintendo preferred to invest more in the production circuit, in order not to repeat Sony’s announced failure. So they are now boasting with more than 2 million consoles ready to find their owners at this week’s debut for Wii, with another 2 million standing by, just in time for the Christmas shopping season.
Pre-orders for Wii have been stellar, a reason for Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime to urge fans to stay in line, despite the impressive reserve of gaming gadgets.
"Wii is for both experienced and uninitiated gamers, and it will be available for the masses. Because of demand, we're urging shoppers not to get complacent. The level of demand we're seeing goes beyond the ordinary."
"Retailers are telling us a significant fraction of customers pre-ordering Wii are non-traditional gamers - people looking for a better way to play. And that's exactly what Wii is designed to provide," he added.
Reggie Fils-Aime’s advice was taken seriously by both hardcore fans and occasional gamers, some of which have camped several days and nights in front of retailers like Toys “R” Us.
At the Times Square Toys "R" Us store in New York, more than 1,000 people crowded in hope of getting a Wii signed by Nintendo’s boss, while more than 900 enthusiasts gathered for the West Coast release at the GameStop store at Hollywood's Universal City Walk.
Fans’ interest is justified by at least two factors: the price and the fun. Of course, there could be more but these two are dominating, since for Wii you’d only have to pay $279 and the games are also cheaper than for Xbox 360 or PS3. The fun is also “different” from what Wii’s rivals provide: Nintendo’s console has a new, revolutionary controller (btw, Wii’s previous name was Revolution), allowing you to play and even merge with the game’s action.
The Japanese gaming giant also added an impressive number of 65 new titles to the launch list, all built exclusively for Wii by some of the world’s best known gaming studios. Moreover, other 30 “oldies, but goodies” will soon be included in the software pack that will accompany the gadget at its launch.
Among the new titles will be "The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess," "Madden NFL '07," "Need for Speed: Carbon," "Call of Duty 3," "Marvel Ultimate Alliance," "Rampage: Total Destruction," "SpongeBob SquarePants: The Creature from Krusty Krab," "Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam," "Red Steel" and many others.
Wii is due to launch on November 19th in the US, December 2nd in Japan and across Europe on December 8th.
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November 19th, 2006, 21:31 Posted By: wraggster
WFCStatus by KevinC is a status viewer for Nintendo's WiFi connection.
Heres whats new:
Added homebrew support! (OMalone 2.0)
Added now online option for OMalone 2.0
Added option to restart when changing timers
Added delay for some update buttons (5 sec)
Updated info in tray tooltip
Removed games timer
Fixed bug in tray menu
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November 19th, 2006, 21:50 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via kotaku
Only two emails have made their way into Kotaku central so far of dead Wii.
In the first report, the reader says that the system worked sporadically for an hour and then he started getting disc read errors. Now his Wii read games about five percent of the time.
The second reader's Wii went belly-up in the middle of his network set-up.
After the long hard months of waiting for my wii, was able to get one at target this morning. I get home, set it up, power it on and go through the initial setup. I decide to configure the online settings next, click the first connection profile, and it shuts off. Dead. I try reseating everything, but it's dead. Trying to call nintendo service, but all lines are busy, they won't even let you wait for an operator. Called Target, but of course they don't have any more.
At least that last story has a happy ending. The tipster wrote back a few hours later to say he was able to get through to Nintendo and they are sending him both a new Wii and a free power supply. I assume an extra. Both should be there in three to four days.
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November 19th, 2006, 21:54 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via kotaku
Nintendo held their Los Angeles based midnight launch at Universal Citywalk, which, on a Saturday night, is already filled to near capacity. Add an extra thousand gamers and you get a maddening crowd.
After $20 worth of "preferred" parking, we made the journey through the thick soup of teenagers and families to the far end of the strip. Basking in the tacky neon glow illuminating everything around us, I finally see the sign: EBgames! I'd never been so thrilled to see one.
After witnessing what looked like a surprisingly short (and sparse) line, we learned that the line had been split up into segments, wrapping around the Hard Rock Cafe and far beyond. With gamers stacked several hundred deep, I knew there was no way I'd sneak my way into nabbing a last minute Wii for myself.
The line had started to form early Friday for Saturday night's Wii launch. Staying cool in nothing but red overalls, Jonathan Mann was first in line. He was going to have his Wii handed to him by Nitnendo's very own George Harrison at 12:01.
To keep the Wii faithful entertained while waiting in line—despite the fact the virtually everyone was armed with a DS or DS lite—Nintendo had off-road Segways with widescreen monitors cruising through the crowd.
For line gawkers and passersby, about a dozen Wii demo stations (as well as a handful of DS kiosks) were installed. Gamers lined up to play Excite Truck, Wii Sports, Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess and Red Steel. Hundreds of onlookers got their first exposure to the Wii that night and the buzz seemed positive.
The night kicked off with an interview with Nintendo's George Harrison, who was as excited about the Wii launch as a Senior Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Communications is allowed to get. In addition to thrilling executive interviews, the crowd was also kept entertained by DJ Rap and the acrobatic group Antigravity. (We were kept entertained by the Rum Runners and Pink Sunsets from the Hard Rock.)
As midnight approached, dozens of Wii retail boxes were pulled from the stock room and stacked on the now empty EBgames register countertops. Following a rousing DJ Rap lead countdown, Mr. Mann entered the store at 12:01 AM.
After picking up his Wii, he read his Nintendo themed poem (seriously) to the gathered media. The first Wii owner exited, booty held aloft, and the patient crowd was allowed entrance. Media were quickly booted out to give the staff some breathing room.
Having engaged in midnight launches myself, I knew that the last person in line wouldn't receive his or her Wii until very, very late that night.
Sleepy from our night of heavy Mexican food, overly sweet adult beverages, we headed back to the lot. Sans pre-order and spot in line, we then set off to find our own Wii. Will we find one?
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November 19th, 2006, 21:58 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via kotaku
My friend Mike in New Haven, Conn. is a gamer. Not a hardcore gamer, but he's definitely done his share of gaming and console buying over the years. he loves his DS, but since the arrival of his 7 month old son, Paul, he doesn't have time for midnight launch madness or waiting around in the cold all night for the newest console. He was, however, very interested in getting a Wii. Since he had Paul last night, he decided to wait until this morning to see if he could actually acquire one. So, He made his way to the local target around 8am.
Upon arriving, he was greeted with the scene that is so familiar at this point, a huge line of people. There were about 60 people in line and as he walked up, he was informed that there were only 60 Wiis and that they had just given out all the claim tickets. It looked like it was going to be a day of running around with an infant trying to find his system. A daunting task, certainly. So, imagine his surprise when a gentleman approached him as he was leaving.
I had just gotten the car door open for Paul when this guy approached. I have to admit I was a bit dubious of his motives but the whole line was standing there watching. He said he had an extra ticket, and I was thinking he wanted to make money off of me and I said, "You're serious? Do you want something for this?" He just said no, that he saw me with the baby and he had an extra he was going to sell on eBay.
He had camped out with his sister since 11 pm to buy a Wii for his 8 y/o son for Christmas. He had never even heard of the Wii until two days ago. He said he was going to buy his son a PSP, but then the boy said he wanted a Wii instead. Then he walks to his car to get the extra ticket and comes back and hands me the ticket and I take my place next to him in line, feeling a little odd about cutting, but thrilled because I had my Wii!
It's so nice to hear stories of things like this happening with the Nintendo launch. It really gives one hope for the future.
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November 19th, 2006, 22:03 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via news8austin
Analysts say going up against industry behemoth Sony is a gutsy move. But days after the chaotic launch of PlayStation 3, Nintendo has released its new Wii video game system, drawing crowds of its own. And so far, Wii's debut has gone smoothly.
About 1,000 people gathered at Nintendo's Time Square store waiting for the Wii's midnight release. More than 500 waited outside a video game store in Los Angeles.
PlayStation's advanced technology makes it an industry force, but Nintendo took a different direction with Wii.
To make it affordable, Nintendo left out high-definition graphics and DVD capabilities. Instead, the Wii's highlight is an innovative motion-sensitive controller that's aimed at changing the way people play games.
Wii's $250 price tag is less than half that of the PlayStation 3.
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November 19th, 2006, 22:08 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via chron
NEW YORK — Nintendo Co.'s entry into the game console wars, the Wii, went on sale Sunday, and quickly sold out in many stores despite stocks that far surpassed those of the rival PlayStation 3, which went on sale two days earlier.
Spot checks at area stores turned up only one, the Toys R Us in Times Square, with Wiis in stock. The store hosted a midnight launch event that drew a crowd of more than a thousand people for the sale of the very first Wii.
The first buyer, Isaiah Triforce Johnson, had been waiting outside the store for more than a week. He wore a Nintendo Power Glove, a wearable controller that came out in 1989, while shaking hands with Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime. Johnson said he had legally changed his name to include a reference to Nintendo's "Zelda" series of games.
The launch apparently went smoothly, a contrast to the launch PlayStation 3 release, which forced police to disperse rowdy crowds at some stores around the country.
Sony had about 400,000 PlayStation 3s in North American stores on Friday. Nintendo has said it would have "five to ten" times as many Wiis available at launch, and will have shipped 4 million units by the end of the year.
The Wii costs $250, including one game, half of what the cheaper PlayStation 3 model costs. The most common PlayStation 3 model costs $600, with no included game.
On the eBay auction site, Wiis were selling Sunday for twice the store price, indicating that supplies are still tight. The PlayStation 3, meanwhile, was selling for around $1,500, already down about $1,000 from Friday.
Launching right after the much-vaunted and technically sophisticated PlayStation 3 is a brave move for Nintendo, which lost the top spot in the market to Sony Corp. in the mid-90s. More recently, Microsoft Corp. has waded into the market as well.
The Wii takes a different tack than the competition, forgoing the high-definition graphics that Sony has spent billions to develop for the PlayStation 3.
Instead, Nintendo aims to draw gamers and non-gamers alike with intuitive game play. The Wii comes with a motion-sensitive controller that the gamer waves around in the air, using it as a tennis racket, golf club, steering wheel, gun or sword depending on the game.
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November 19th, 2006, 23:25 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via spong
Today in the US, Nintendo launched the Wii console, not that you'd know it watching the news. In contrast to the lead-story coverage generated by last week's PlayStation 3 launch, mainstream news has largely ignored the Nintendo release.
Although the machine is a sell-out in most areas of the US, Nintendo lost vital publicity that it had hoped would hit its target of lapsed and non-gamers. These consumers, typically disinterested in gaming, simply heard that a new PlayStation had arrived and everyone seemed desperate to buy one. They have probably missed the fact that a Nintendo machine has also been launched, a machine they might very much want to play or at the very least investigate.
Calls to branches of Target, Best Buy and Wal-Mart today painted a picture of quiet and orderly satisfaction. Although actual allocation figures are well-guarded, it appears that regional Wal-Mart stores received 20 units, Target and Best Buy had around 60 available per outlet. In contrast to the PS3 launch, queuing began hours, rather than days, before stores opened.
Only Wii's New York launch event gathered a healthy amount of publicity, including mentions in the mainstream media's entertainment and tech pages. The coverage Sony enjoyed is not present, even though more machines reached more users.
In-store pre-orders for Wii sold out in minutes of going on sale. Follow-up pre-orders were available online only and comprised $700 bundles, and also sold out within minutes. Online actions saw pre-orders sell for around $1,000 in some cases and as far as anyone could see, the Wii was almost as hot at the PS3. However, allocations for both machines went in opposite directions, and the laws of supply and demand came into play.
The fact stands that more people have had a Wii today bought PlayStation 3 on Friday. More people have one hooked up to their SD televisions playing a greater library of games, some of which are actually very good. So what happened?
Despite its a $600 price tag, limited supplies of PlayStation 3 resulted in pre-orders selling at thousands of dollars over the RRP on auction sites. The US was initially expecting over 400,000 consoles to hit retail, but this figure diminished and by mid-week, it was largely accepted that only 250,000 units would be available at launch. This drove people onto the streets and by Thursday night, retail outlets across the country were besieged by little shantytowns comprising an estimated 70% scalpers and 30% gamers.
Compared to the last big camp out for the Xbox 360, more was at stake with the PlayStation 3 launch. It is a console that promises more than any other, it commands a higher retail price than any other, it is in desperately short supply and promises to be for many weeks.
PS3 also represents the best overnight investment ever in a games machine, with people netting thousands of dollars within hours of launch. Transactions were taking place in car parks, with scalpers seeing big returns for a working week out in the cold. There were sporadic shootings, stampedes and fights around the country, although SPOnG witnessed a standard trouble-free launch here. It was enough to drive blanket media coverage of the PlayStation 3 in almost every single news outlet coast-to-coast. Starting on Tuesday and building to a crescendo on Friday evening, anyone picking up a newspaper, turning on the television or tuning in their car radios was well aware that the PlayStation 3 was such a hot item. The result: Non-gamers and lapsed gamers became aware that everyone wanted a PlayStation 3. That's quite a seed to plant...
Stay tuned for some on-the-spot coverage of Nintendo's New York launch soon on SPOnG and be sure to let us know how you feel things went right and wrong in the US over what has been an amazing weekend for gaming.
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November 19th, 2006, 23:32 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via engadget
We've had our Wii kicking around the office for a little while now, but we had to hold off on answering your many questions about it until last night when they rolled out their launch update. Trust us, it definitely changed some answers, so let's get to the FAQ. Oh, and thanks for the questions. Feel free to leave your followups in the comments.
1. How loud is the Wii?
We'd say of the next gen consoles, the order of loudness goes: Wii, PS3, and Xbox 360. Though that's not necessarily fair since the Wii and the PS3 are both pretty much completely silent from more than a foot away. To put it in perspective, the only console we can tell whether it was left on is the Xbox.
2. Can you connect and play media from a USB hard drive?
Our USB drive turns on when we plug it in -- it's obviously USB -- but nothing happens. Right now there's no support for USB storage, including playback of photos, music, or movies, nor saving channels or games to the device. Bummer.
3. Is it possible to attach an external keyboard, mouse, etc. to the USB ports on the back of the Wii?
Yeah, you can attach them, but they don't actually do anything. Kind of a bummer, too, since using that on-screen keyboard of theirs is kind of a pain -- we often aim off our letter when pressing the A button to type.
4. Does the Wii upconvert non-Wii games?
If you've got the component cables you can "upscale" old games to 480p / EDTV. Not that it's going to look any better, but the display doesn't change back 480i or anything.
5. Which audio / video / image formats work with the Wii?
The manual states it works only with JPEG images, MP3 audio, and motion JPEG movies. We found it worked with all of the above, and unfortunately nothing but. We tested pretty much everything, including BMP, GIF, TIF, PSD, and PNG images; OGG, AAC, AAC lossless, WMA, WMA lossless, MP3, FLAC, AIF, and WAV audio; and XviD, WMA, H.264, and every other variety of movie could think of to throw at it.
6. When you insert an SD card into Wii with photos and videos on, do they need to be converted to display/save onto Wii?
Nope, but it does only read JPEG, MP3, and motion JPEG (MOV) files.
7. What are the load times for the games?
Nothing at all unusual for a disc-based console. Considering it's loading less data than the PS3 or Xbox 360, we might've liked to see those load times shaved down a bit. But it's nothing unreasonable, and doesn't clock into the minutes territory.
8. Is the sensor bar setup tough (does it require a level or anything like that)?
Not at all. Just rest it on top of or below your TV. If it keeps falling off (like ours did) you can use the double-sided tape on the bottom and stick it into place.
9. How does the Wii work on a smaller TV?
Very well; we hooked it up to the smallest TV we could possibly find, a 13-incher, and even put the sensor bar way off to the side and it worked beautifully.
10. Is it hard to aim on the smaller TV?
Not at all! It's like playing any games on a smaller screen: you're never going to be able to pick up the same level of detail and accuracy as on a larger display, but it still works great.
11. How decent is the callibration for the Wii?
Very decent, and extremely easy. In fact, there's no calibration at all, just put the sensor bar on or below your TV, set the option for its location, and you're off.
12. Is the sensor bar really that distracting?
Huh? Not really, it's pretty benign; we didn't even notice it. You might pay more attention to it if it's mounted on a wall (if you're using a projector), but it's very low profile and unobtrusive.
13. What happens if you put a disc in upside down?
Nothing in the channel page; in the Disc channel, however, you get a simple cannot read disc error message. Our discs came out fine and unscratched.
14. In the unboxing video, what were those "decals" plastic things?
That's actually a sensor bar stand and a clear Wii stand (in case you didn't want to use the larger plastic variety in box).
15. How long do the Wii batteries last? Are they rechargeable? Nunchuck change the battery life much?
They just take AA batteries, so your mileage may vary. They're not rechargeable out of the box, and the nunchuck feeds off the Wiimote's power. We've been playing for a week or more now on the stock batteries with no problems, but who knows if they'll die today, tomorrow, or two months from now.
16. What does the Sync button do?
It allows you to sync wireless peripherals (Wiimote, etc.) to your system, like an Xbox 360. Nothing more or less.
17. Is the Wii controller REALLY Bluetooth-compliant, or is it simply RF? What happens if you try to pair it with a Bluetooth 2.0EDR capable PC?
It is indeed! And unlike the PS3, since it has that sync button you can make it go into discoverable mode. We tried and found the Wiimote, but we were unable to pair with the device. For those curious, its Bluetooth device name was Nintendo RVL-CNT-01 -- different from its official model number RVL-003.
18. Was there a "Wii Startup Disk" included in the box?
Nope! It works right out of box -- for us. We actually got an email this morning from reader Mitch, who says: "I got a Wii this morning. Waited 32 hours in a 24-hour Wal-Mart to do it, but I did it. I get it home, set it up, and it asks me for a setup disc. But there wasn't a setup disc in the box. [As with ours. -Ed.] When I called Nintendo, they said it was something they'd been contacted about on a small number of units, and are shipping new ones for free to those who call in. Like me." Ouch, that sucks!
19. How long are the standard composite AV cables? Component cables? Sensor bar cable?
Composite: 94-inches
Component: 94-inches
Sensor bar: 138-inches
Wii to power brick: 38-inches
Power brick to wall: 62-inches (power cable length total: 100-inches)
20. Does the Wii's sensor bar limit you from what kind of TV you can hook it up to? For example, a 60" projection TV that sits on a pedastal -- can you put the sensor bar above the TV or does it have to go below? How about for setups where the gamer does not sit directly in front of the TV but perhaps off to the side?
Not as far as we know, no. You don't have to be dead on with your TV (of course it helps), but you do have to be within a reasonable angle of it. We'd estimate it was about a 145-155 degree angle on both sides that you could play within -- more than enough for getting four people going on the system. It is IR though, so if there are any obstructions the Wiimote won't cursor properly (although the motion control will still work).
21. How steep is the learning curve on the Wii? Is it worth the time investment to learn a new way of gaming?
Not very steep, most of the motions and gestures come naturally. Which is kind of the point -- they wanted to make gaming less about button combos on a 20-button controller, and more about natural, intuitive movements that people of all ages can understand and play with.
22. Is the blue light always on during gameplay?
Nope, only when loading games into the drive.
23. Are there any screws outside of the Wii allowing you to open the unit?
The screws are all well concealed, but no doubt about it, the Wii can be opened one way or another.
24. Does the sensor bar not function properly when it is exposed to sunlight from outside or from many reports, when somebody points a laser pointer on it?
We can't possibly imagine why anyone would be shining a laser pointer at the Wii sensor bar. But since you asked, we did just that and saw absolutely no problems with cursor movement. As you might imagine, we've also had no problem playing in a well lit room.
25. Does cursor speed change when playing in a totally dark vs a well lit room?
No, not that we can tell. Although the Wii does have a cursor sensitivity setting in options
26. Does the Wii support WPA?
Yes! The Wii supports WEP, WPA-PSK (TKIP), WPA-PSK (AES), and WPA2-PSK (AES). Pretty surprising!
27. How do the graphics of the games for the Wii compare to that of the previous generation consoles?
Previous generation consoles? Well, it's better than the GameCube! Just not by as much as we'd have liked. Compared to the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 it's kind of pathetic. But if you're a GameCuber and haven't really dabbled with Microsoft's and Sony's latest offerings, you'll probably be happy.
28. Can you use Wii game save slots for GC games?
We don't see why not! We didn't see any messages in the system that would lead us to believe we couldn't save our games to SD or internal memory, but we couldn't confirm for sure. Why? Good question. Our copy of Wind Waker started ok, but it wouldn't even let us get to the main menu without a classic controller. We really wished they'd have prompted us to plug one in (like the way it prompts you to plug in a nunchuck for some games) before we had to shut down the looping Zelda title and restart the system.
29. When you save Wii game save data, do you get a choice of saving it to the internal memory or SD card, or can game save data only be saved to the internal memory?
You can save your game data and even downloaded games to your inserted SD card. The files are stored in \private\wii\title\FAKE and RSPE folders as either content.bin (ours was 2.7MB) or data.bin (80-200KB) files. We weren't really able to do anything with those files, although it stands to reason you could back those up (or hack them to pieces).
30. Does the sensor bar have to be in the exact center of the display, or can it still be accurate if its a little bit off.
Not at all. We put ours completely off to the side and it was still totally accurate. We have a feeling when you've got a bunch of people around you'll want to try to keep it centered, but you definitely don't have to bust out the measuring tape during the install.
31. Does Excite Truck indeed support custom soundtracks off of the SD card?
Yep, and it worked perfectly -- as long as they're MP3s! You can play in order, or set to shuffle.
32. Does Wii support SDHC cards? MMC?
Actually, MMC didn't work! We can't 100% confirm it won't take SDHC cards, but given the fact that we're seeing 2GB Wii cards -- and not 4GB+ cards -- we're assuming that SDHC isn't supported right now.
33. Are the battery contacts coiled springs, or bent metal?
They're spring-engaged bent metal, actually. Some of the nicest battery contacts we've ever seen in a came console, to be honest.
34. After playing with the Wii for a few days, do you feel that your interest in the Wii will last? Or is it a gimmick?
We'll save that for a full review, but basically that's up to the game developers. If they can make the games feel right with the motion sensing and continue to come up with new, interesting ways of using it, then no, not gimmicky at all. But if all these games are just going to be use your Wiimote to aim an onscreen cursor like the new Mario and Zelda, that might get old after a while. Still, for now it's all very fresh and fun.
35. What input does the power brick take, just 120v, or right up to 40v? Also how many watts?
Our adapter reads 120V only, not 120-240v; it's rated at 53 watts, and 3.7 amps.
36. Is the Wii multi region?
It stands to reason that because of the power supply, you probably won't be able to (easily) import your Wii. Even still, Wiis are supposedly quite certainly region-locked. Sorry, gamers!
37. How do you put the mini Gamecube discs into the slot-loader?
Like so!
38. Does the Wii have HD capabilities?
If you define HD as being 720p or higher, then no. The best we could do was get ours going with extended def, 480p.
39. Can you turn it on and off remotely with the controller like you can with the Xbox 360?
Yep, absolutely!
40. Can I put DVDs in the Wii?
You can, but it won't read them. Watch out for a DVD-reading Wii next year.
41. Do I have to sync the Wiimote every time I want to play?
No way! But you do have to sync it if you bring your Wiimote to a pal's house. Also, your Mii can be saved to your Wiimote, so when you play at a friend's place you don't have to do anything weird to transport it.
42. Is the Wii's sound similar to some GameCube games in the sense that they are MIDIs on steroids (think: Metroid Prime)?
No, for the most part our Wii audio experience has been pretty good. Excite Truck has real, honest to goodness lame rock music. The sound coming out of the Wiimote, however, is another story entirely. It's pretty awful. We're not sure if that's due to Bluetooth bandwidth restrictions or a really awful speaker, but man does it remind us of a Game Boy trying to make real audio sound effects.
43. Is there a hard switch to turn off the WiFi on the Wii?
Nope, not that we can tell.
44. How does the Wii's browser do on the ACID2 test? Have you seen any problems with page rendering?
Sorry, as we wrote last night, the Wii browser isn't available yet. However, since it's Opera based, and Opera performs well on the ACID2 test, it stands to reason that it will render it properly.
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November 19th, 2006, 23:37 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via arnnet
Nintendo's Wii console will do more to challenge Microsoft's Xbox 360 this holiday shopping season than the long-awaited PlayStation 3 from Sony Computer Entertainment, according to analysts.
U.S. customers got their hands on Sony's PlayStation 3 on Friday, but the console is suffering from a lack of supply as well as a hefty US$599 price tag for the 60G-byte model. Sony also offers a US$499 version with a smaller hard drive. However, the US$299 Nintendo Wii, though not targeted at hard-core gamers like the Xbox and PlayStation 3, will give Microsoft's early-to-market Xbox 360 a run for its money.
The Wii will reach customers in the U.S. on Sunday. Microsoft released the Xbox 360 last November for the 2005 holiday shopping season with a US$399 or US$299 price tag, depending on which version is purchased.
"Nintendo has done a great job with the Wii," said David Mercer, a vice president with U.K. research firm Strategy Analytics. "The price point will be very tempting even for consumers that many have not even thought of buying a console. As a general holiday present, Nintendo will do well."
Matt Rosoff, an analyst with Directions on Microsoft in Kirkland, Washington, agreed that the Wii will be a successful holiday seller. "But people will still be buying a lot of Xbox 360s this year," he said. "There are more games for them, and they are significantly less expensive than the PlayStation 3. And they're available. They're in a really good spot."
That's good news for Microsoft, which has a lot to prove with the Xbox 360 before the end of the year. The company has projected it will sell 10 million consoles by 2007. By the end of September, Microsoft said it sold 6 million worldwide, which means it must sell 4 million in the last three months of the year.
In addition to introducing new Xbox titles for the holiday season to bolster 2006 sales, Microsoft also released an external HD-DVD drive for the console and will begin allowing users to download movies to their Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live online marketplace on Nov. 22.
Holiday competition from the Wii aside, Microsoft should try to take advantage of the PlayStation 3's two main weaknesses this holiday season -- lack of availability and cost -- to prove it can stick it out against the PlayStation 3 over the long haul, Mercer suggested.
"There's a lot of loyalty to the PlayStation brand," he said. "People who want the [PlayStation 3] but can't get ahold of one are the people Microsoft should be targeting."
Even though Sony will be lucky to sell 1.5 million of its projected 2 million PlayStation 3 consoles this holiday season, the Sony console should outlast its competition over the long haul, Mercer added.
"In the long term, there's no question the PS3 is a superior system," he said. "It's designed to be going strong in five or 10 year's time. We just don't see the Xbox 360 having that kind of sustainability."
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November 20th, 2006, 00:17 Posted By: Dee-Lite
Source http://www.nintendogal.com/
While by now we've all heard about the various options for gaming on the Wii including GameCube games, Virtual Console games, or Wii games themselves, a fourth method for play on Nintendo's brand new console is gaining some attention.
WiiCade, project of artist/designer David Stubbs, Aaron Worrall, and John Eysman, is a brand new website launching alongside the Wii itself on Sunday, November 19. The site will feature Flash games which have been designed specifically to be played on the Wii via the Opera web browser. Additionally, by accessing the site via PC, users can design and upload their own Flash applications to the site -- in a fashion similar to Newgrounds -- to be enjoyed by other Wii users worldwide.
The site will offer 15 games on launch day, two of which are exclusive titles that make unique use of the Wii remote. The games will be vector-based, so they will scale well on any television while providing smooth visuals.
No information is yet available on how much -- if any -- money the site will charge to play. It is also unclear how the site's plans will be affected if the Opera browser is unavailable on launch day, as some reports have recently suggested.
The site can be accessed at www.wiicade.com, although there is only a "coming soon" splash page up at the moment.
Nothing gets techies salivating over a console like homebrew, and WiiCade should help the Wii develop a community around user-designed software and win its way into more homes. It'll also encourage more use of the Opera browser. Seems a great idea, and I'll definitely be checking it out when I get my Wii set up.
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November 20th, 2006, 00:31 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via popular science
While a few zany folks preferred to mindlessly operate on a PlayStation 3 without any tact whatsoever, the steady-handed folks over at Popular Science went by the books when they gingerly took apart Nintendo's latest. But alas, not everyone is so gentle (or considerate) when it comes to enjoying new toys, and the folks over at SmashMyWii shaved a few minutes off their uncasing time by going at it with a large foreign object instead of a minuscule screwdriver. We're reserving comment on which method we prefer most, but we do applaud both the tender care and rage expressed in each unique scenario. Nevertheless, snagging a Wii should've been slightly (and slightly we stress) easier than dodging bullets or quitting your job in order to (hopefully) get a PS3, but we're sure there's still quite a few of us sitting home empty handed -- so if you're craving an inside look at the Wii which you don't yet have (or don't want to dissect yourself), be sure to hit the read link for some well-captured Wii pr0n, and peek after the break for the painfully humorous slaughtering.
as you can see over at popular science there have been conducting wii-otopcy as they call it.
disection of wii screens via comment
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November 20th, 2006, 01:54 Posted By: wraggster
I have received Confirmation that Freeloader the Import Game enabler for the Gamecube is working on the Nintendo Wii.
Heres what FreeLoader is:
Launch and play imported GameCube™ games from any region
No need to modify your console – keeps your warranty intact
Add loads of new titles to your GameCube™ collection, including games that may never be released in your region
Play US and Japanese games on a PAL GameCube™
Play PAL games on a US or Japanese GameCube™
Fast and easy to use
Those of you who own the Freeloader and a Wii, please post your Compatability reports
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November 20th, 2006, 02:02 Posted By: gunntims0103
Nintendo's latest toy is cheaper, smaller, and less fancy than its competitors, but it hasn't stopped diehard 'gamers' from lining up just to get their hands on the new Wii.
Even Though analist say that the Wii graphically, internally, and playably is behind in the next gen consol race. Buyer's still seem to be buying it.
The wii at the moment in sale's are ahead of the ps3. Some could say this is because of the lack of ps3's that have been released, but even if the ps3 would have released enough for demand. Would the wii be ahead?
At the moment the nintendo wii seems to be holding strong, It will be interesting to see how this unfolds in the future weeks to come.
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November 20th, 2006, 02:31 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Amie revealed that the heretofore Euro- and Japan-only bundle Wii Play will, in fact, get a North American release. Speaking with GameSpot staffers in New York today, Fils-Amie said the decision had been made to bring the nine-game collection and controller pack to US gamers sometime next year. The title brings a collection of entry level titles to the mass market console--included in the mix are table tennis, hockey, fishing, and billiards games. No price was mentioned.
Via Gamespot
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November 20th, 2006, 02:44 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via Laist
After hearing that a big event celebrating the launch of the new Nintendo system, the Wii was taking place at Citywalk, we made a B-line for the Wii-line and got to sitting. The long night in line at one of our least favorite places in Los Angeles, Universal CityWalk, Wii finally have our console in hand and now Wii have yet another thing to eat up any free time Wii might come across. All our feelings on the situation could be summed up with this sign a couple of the revelers had posted on the window of the store
That's enough for the Wii-tarded Wii jokes, at least for this Wiikend
Spending the evening in line with hundreds of people that most would refer to as nerds or outcasts is an Eye opening experience to say the least. The line stretched from the front of the EB games near the Hard Rock Cafe all the way to the top of the Curious George Parking lot. While inside the store we heard the manager talking to a customer and he said, and I quote "I can't tell you exactly how many systems we have, but it is a four digit number." Feeling confident about our chances of getting our Wii on, we sat and watched the festivities, which included guys on spring loaded stilts, and models throwing around t-shirts and other Nintendo merch, what either of those things had to do with Videogames, I'm not sure, but the guys on the Segways with plasma TVs attached to play the new console were pretty cool.
We did, however, have a couple issues with the wait in line. The first was the complete lack of Wi-Fi. The only place with any sort of Wireless Fidelity was the worst, in our opinion, bowling alley in the world, Jillian's and it seems they were sharing a 56k connection, so it wasn't worth it. The second issue was when a friend of ours returned to the line after retrieving burgers, the security assumed that he was trying to jump in line and kicked him out of Citywalk. He had good humor about the situation and spent the rest of the evening sleeping and getting ready to get his Wii at Target, we on the other hand had our final straw with CityWalk. The only saving grace of the entire mall is the Gibson Amphitheater, but even that's not enough to get us to return to that overpriced and overhyped area of LA.
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November 20th, 2006, 03:39 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via kotaku
Remember when we posted that art of the Wii box showing that it was going to come with a startup disc?
If you have a Wii, you probably have noticed there isn't such a thing in the box. That's because Nintendo managed to pre-load that software on the console before they started shipping. Well almost every. At least one reader emailed us to let us know his won't work because it wants a start-up disc. Which means he's going to have to return it.
Here's Nintendo's wording on the whole startup disc dealio.
The boxes in question (the ones that referenced a startup disc) are early-production boxes that were being used for display purposes only. The final Wii product boxes will not have any disc other than the free copy of Wii Sports, and the final packaging will not contain a reference to the startup disc.
So there you go, one mystery solved.
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November 20th, 2006, 07:41 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via nintendorevolution
Wii is outpacing PS3 2-1
Wii vs. PS3 by the numbersWii is outselling PS3 by more than a two to one margin, according to unconfirmed calculations.
According to the website NexGen Wars, as of 11:38 PM EST, Wii has sold a whopping 607,004 consoles compared to PS3, which has sold 255,172 units to date.
Is this accurate? We have no earthly idea, so don't go betting the farm on it. Here's what the website has to say:
The next generation of gaming is upon us, and the console wars has begun. NexGen Wars.com has spent countless hours researching sales facts from dozens of sources to track the worldwide sales of the consoles and monitor the next generation of console wars between the Microsoft Xbox 360, the Sony Playstation 3, and the Nintendo Wii. Remember, these numbers are only estimates, but they are constantly monitored and upated to assure the closest estimates possible for the Xbox 360, Playstation 3, and Wii.
It'll take a wee bit of time to catch up to Xbox 360, who has sold 7,080,863 bad boys to date.
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November 20th, 2006, 08:33 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via theinquirer
THE WEEKEND launch of the Nintendo Wii has resulted in a sell out despite the fact that most shops had tons more to flog than Sony's PS3 launch two days earlier.
According to Associated Press, most Wii queues formed up in the morning before the shops opened. There was little of the hysteria that marked the introduction of the PS3.
However, there were enough punters in the queues to sell all Wii stocks. Nintendo said that it expected to flog four million units by the end of the year, but is not saying how many it cleared over the weekend.
find more info here
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November 20th, 2006, 11:06 Posted By: Kramer
Here's evidence of what can go wrong when Nintendo's revolutionary controller becomes a projectile.
Nintendo's Wii prides itself on providing a radical new way to play games, but experiencing it properly may come at a hefty price for some.
After only 24 hours of release in the US, over-the-top motions have resulted in much pain for some gamers, with many reporting Wii-motes having hit ceiling fans, and other closeby objects. The worst case, though, comes from one unlucky consumer, whose Wii-mote was sent flying towards an expensive television, cracking the screen on impact.
Be warned: Sweaty hands + faulty Wiimote wrist strap = broken ass TV.
Source: SomethingAwful
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November 20th, 2006, 18:49 Posted By: wraggster
Via Engadget
While so far Sony's PS3 launch seems to have gone off relatively error-free (we're talking hardware here, crime still doesn't pay, kids), Microsoft's 360 was notoriously plagued by errors at launch, and it doesn't look like the Wii is going to escape unscathed either. Reports have been coming in on the official Nintendo forums that after the initial firmware/software update that is downloaded during your first attempt to use WiiConnect24, some users are experiencing a "110213" error code, which bars them from using WiiConnect24 completely. Some people are conjecturing that the update is frying a necessary component to connect to the service, possibly being caused by corrupt downloads due to the incredible demand on the update servers currently. Whatever the cause, Nintendo phone support is apparently calling this a "fatal error," and replacing the units for free, including pre-paid shipping labels to make the process as smooth as can be -- of course, "smooth as can be" is little solace to launch day junkies who are halfway through Zelda already and will have to start over on a fresh box.
Any Wii News Fans Suffer this problem ?
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November 20th, 2006, 18:58 Posted By: wraggster
Via eurogamer
While the PS3 launch may have made headlines due to stock shortages and lengthy queues, the situation couldn’t have seemed more different for the launch of the Nintendo Wii in Canada just two days later.
Thanks to healthy supplies, the Wii didn’t get much more than a cursory reference in the mainstream press - with most news reports giving it only a brief mention as PS3's competitor for the title of "this Christmas’s hottest toy".
However, on the streets the situation seemed entirely different, with the queues observed by GamesIndustry.biz at stores in downtown Toronto equalling those for PlayStation 3.
Priced at CAN $279.99 (Euro 190) including the Wii Sports pack-in - which is actually marginally cheaper than the suggested retail price in the US - the system was sold out in most stores before they'd even opened, to the surprise of many consumers who arrived to queue early in the morning, expecting low demand.
At Best Buy, a large crowd had gathered by 7am on Sunday. The Toronto Star reported that many of those in the local area who bought a PlayStation 3 were reselling the console to pay off the cost of a Wii, but GamesIndustry.biz did not find anyone in the queue with that story to tell. Nor did we find a single person planning to sell their new Nintendo console.
At the head of the queue was a high school student who said, "We’ve been asking people as they come up if they’re keeping it, and only a very, very small percentage of people have said they’re eBaying it. Almost everyone is keeping it. It’s quite a difference."
The student said he'd been waiting "two years, ever since E3 2004" for the Wii, though his wait outside Best Buy began at 3pm on Saturday afternoon. "Everybody in the line-up has had a fantastic time; everybody has had so much fun," he said. "Honestly, this entire night has been an incredible experience for many of us."
When asked what it was about the Wii that he liked so much, the student replied, "The system, Zelda, absolutely everything about it... I just absolutely adore Nintendo."
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November 20th, 2006, 19:04 Posted By: wraggster
Via eurogamer
Nintendo of Canada exec Pierre-Paul Trépanier has told our sister site GamesIndustry.biz that the company is already raking in the cash following yesterday's launch of the Wii.
"We make a profit on the system itself," Trépanier said. "Unlike our competitors, we don’t have ulterior motives; we’re not in it to sell HD TVs, or to become the operating system in the living room or anything like that.
"We’re in the gaming business, and we have to make money from everything we sell - and we are making money from day one on the Wii."
According to Trépanier, Nintendo is still on track to meet shipment targets for the Wii - and he confirmed that North America will get the lion's share.
"We have 4 million units ready to go, which is something our competitors have struggled with... Historically a bit more than half of our worldwide shipment would go to North America, I think that’s probably a good estimate."
But despite the healthy stock supply, Trépanier conceded, the Wii is still likely to sell out this Christmas: "We do estimate there will be supply issues within the first few weeks."
However, he continued, "We’re receiving a constant supply. Every week there is a flow of product to the marketplace. The extremely complex and sophisticated supply system ensures that product will be delivered quickly to the stores that need it.
"We have a good supply management system that evaluates fairly well the demand and pull from each individual store depending on its size, class, location, seasonality and things like that," Trépanier explained.
"We’re not putting fixed numbers for stores; we really assign quantities based on historical pull."
Trépanier went on to defend Nintendo's decision to launch the Wii just two days after PlayStation 3, stating, "The timing is great as it’s pre-Thanksgiving, which is a very important commercial consideration in the United States, and it’s great for the holidays.
"And the great news is the feedback we’re getting from media and consumers and all of our research is that the Nintendo Wii really is the pretty girl at the party this year."
Trépanier's comments came at a Wii launch event held at the Ontario Place theme park. Members of the press, public and games industry were all invited to attend, and the response was positive despite long queues to play the most highly anticipated titles (with Ubisoft's Red Steel proving particularly popular).
Trépanier declined to put a figure on the number of Wii units shipped to Canada, but did say that the territory represents "about ten per cent" of the North American market. Analysts have estimated that as many as 200,000 consoles were available in Canada at launch.
"Canada is more important than its actual market size," Trépanier said.
"Not only is Canada 10 per cent of North America, which is significant, but the Canadian subsidiary of Nintendo is widely regarded as one of the best subsidiaries in the world on a whole bunch of measures including profit per employee and market share."
The Nintendo Wii will launch in Japan on December 2, six days ahead of the European release.
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November 20th, 2006, 19:07 Posted By: wraggster
NoA president Reggie Fils-Aime has revealed he expects the company to sell one million Wii consoles to North American consumers within the next two to three weeks.
Speaking to Reuters, Fils-Aime predicted that Nintendo will hit the target by early December, and go on to sell another million Wii units by the second week of January. He said that a life span of between four and six years for the console would be "just about right".
Fils-Aime also took the opportunity to echo comments made by other Nintendo execs regarding the profit potential of the Wii, compared to other consoles such as the PS3, which apparently cost more to produce than to buy.
"We think that's in part why the industry has become so insular - very expensive machines, machines that arguably do more than you need them to do," Fils-Aime said.
"We designed [Wii] from the get-go to be profitable, so it will be past this weekend and throughout its entire life. Because we're a gaming company, we have to be profitable in the gaming business. It's not like our competitors who can make profit in operating systems or TVs to offset their losses on the gaming side."
Nintendo recently announced that a DVD playback-enabled version of the Wii will hit Japanese shelves next year - but following the latest comments from Fils-Aime, it's looking increasingly unlikely that the new model will get a North American release.
"We took a pause to say, 'We're not going to do high definition. We're not going to include a DVD because consumers already have two or three different DVD playback machines in their household," Fils-Aime said. "We wanted to bring it back to a core gaming machine."
via Gamesindustry
Should Nintendo have stuck in a DVD Playback ?
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November 20th, 2006, 19:15 Posted By: wraggster
via gamesradar
Nintendo plans to update Wii's Virtual Console game list with a brand new title every Monday in the US, aiming to bring more than 30 games to the service before the end of the year, alongside the 12 retro games available at launch.
It'll certainly make Monday mornings a lot more bearable, and we'd be surprised if Nintendo didn't have a similarly regular update plan for Europe, although the big N was unavailable at the time of writing to confirm this, or to suggest which day we might get our new gaming treats.
In addition, this shot that some helpful gamer has posted on photo-sharing site flickr reveals that Wii's Virtual Console has a very handy Suspend Point feature, enabling you to freeze the game at any point and return to the Wii Home menu, then pop back whenever you please.
Unfortunately, though, it's not clear if you can play normal Wii games or do other memory-intensive actions without losing your Suspend Point. We'll have to delve into Wii's instruction manual and find out in December.
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November 20th, 2006, 19:16 Posted By: wraggster
If you've been wondering how regular games - like Need for Speed Carbon, say - will work on Wii, then wonder no more. This new video gives you a glimpse of how the console's clever wireless controller can be used as a steering wheel stand in, with you twisting and turning it in your hands to wrap your car around the game's circuits. Hit the movies tab above for the footage.
Need for Speed Carbon on Wii will pull in alongside Nintendo's brand new console on 8 December. And, by the sound of it, the basic game is a solid outing for the series - so, as long as you can get your head in sync with the control method (helped by a very useful on-screen icon showing you the direction of your steering wheel), this motion-sensitive version should be a blast.
Movie at Gamesradar
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November 20th, 2006, 19:33 Posted By: wraggster
Can you believe it? Software for a console with a less than one game attachment rate was flattened by the money-printing DS. The portable's adult common sense training game (yes, we've moved on from brain games!) was the biggest seller, followed by Pokémon Diamond, the new DS Kirby game, Pokeémon Pearl and the Kanji Kentei kanji study game. DS titles continue straight through until the PS3's Ridge Racer 7 comes in at number 9. To put things in perspective, the biggest DS title sold four times the biggest PS3 title during the week of the hardware's launch. Of course, DS games don't net much on Yahoo! Auctions. Then again, neither do PS3 games.
via kotaku
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November 20th, 2006, 19:35 Posted By: wraggster
Gamespot, you're so missing the point here. After copping a torrent of vitriol for giving Twilight Princess a "lowly" 8.8, they've somehow felt the need to respond to their critics. Well...not so much respond, as make things ten times worse. Matthew Rorie, Game Guides Editor:
It's the same damn game we've all been playing for the last 15-odd years. Hey, guess what? You get to go into dungeons...and find items...and put together pieces of heart to make new heart containers. I haven't gotten very far into it, but I'm going to go out on a limb and guess that Triforce is in the mix at some point.
There's a difference between tradition and ossification, and Nintendo's been content to let this series stay the same for too damn long. What's more, in a lot of ways it's actually getting to be pretty annoying.
Why, GameSpot, as a major, commercial site, did you feel the need to respond to a bunch of angry fanboys? And having made that decision, why oh why did you need to go baiting them like that? All it's going to do is piss them off even more, all the while dragging you down to their level.
Via Kotaku
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November 20th, 2006, 20:28 Posted By: wraggster
New Wii Game Released:
You play the surgeon in this exciting Medical Drama simulation. You'll need to cure patients of everything from routine medical maladies to life-threatening designer viruses. And, of course, there's all that drama waiting just outside of the operating room.
Your medical toolkit includes scalpels, forceps, defibrillator paddles, syringes and more--all designed for use with the Wii Remote!
The most dangerous threat facing mankind in the year 2018 is a terrorist-designed virus called GUILT (Gangliated Utrophin Immuno Latency Toxin), and Dr. Stiles just might be the only person who can stop it (pst! You're Dr. Stiles).
If you're ready to have some medical drama of your own, it's time to play doctor.
More Info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1po0.html
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November 20th, 2006, 20:31 Posted By: wraggster
New Wii Game released:
features
Party Games: Scores of new party games have been creatively designed to take advantage of the Wii controller.
Puzzle Levels: A huge number of puzzle levels have been designed for players of all standards. Easy to learn but difficult to master, these puzzle levels bring classic Super Monkey Ball gameplay to the Wii for the first time.
Boss Levels: Once you get through the tricky puzzles, prepare for some serious boss battles. Each of the bosses will challenge you to find their weakness to defeat them.
description
AiAi and friends come to the Wii! An action-packed extravaganza of unique new puzzles and madcap multiplayer gameplay, Super Monkey Ball Banana Blitz takes the ground-breaking Wii controller and shows the world exactly what it can do. Players will be able to make their characters jump for the first time in the Super Monkey Ball universe with a simple upward flick motion using the Wii controller. A barrel-load of thrilling new party games, including Whack-a-Mole and Ring Toss, will keep the party rolling for hours.
More Info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1po3.html
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November 20th, 2006, 20:36 Posted By: wraggster
New Wii game released:
Madden NFL 07 for the Nintendo Wii unveils all-new motion-based control schemes that put the complete command of your players at your fingertips like never before. Use the innovative controls to unleash a devastating rushing attack by opening holes as the lead blocker, and then switch to the tailback to smash through, overpower, or slash away from would-be tacklers. Mind-blowing jukes, cutbacks, and the distinct styles of your favorite NFL backs provide an unstoppable arsenal of moves. Madden NFL 07 is football like you’ve never played it.
Madden NFL 07 on the Nintendo Wii creates an entirely new controller-focused experience, bringing Madden’s gameplay depth alive in a new, immersive way.
More Info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1po4.html
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November 20th, 2006, 20:38 Posted By: wraggster
New Wii Game released:
features
Super accessible gameplay with the Wii Remote: Perform spectacular stunts , jump and race with your powerful Monsters.
Customize your machine: Personalize your truck's appearance with sweet paint jobs and decals, and soup up its performance by maxing out its speed, jumping and destruction capabilities.
Money makes the wheels go round: Win races, unleash spectacular stunts and jumps, and demolish everything in sight to win cash and upgrade your Monster truck to the ultimate stomping machine.
Test your skills on 40 tracks: Tear through 40 Monster events in the hairiest off-road circuits your tires have ever seen.
Show the world what you're made of: Smoke the competition as you blaze through exciting new locations all over the world, such as Egypt, Moscow, Barcelona, San Francisco, South Dakota, and more.
Dominate in every mode: Master your tricks in Quick Race mode as you taste all of the thrills, spills, twists, and rolls of Monster Truck racing. Then turn up the heat in Single Race or Monster League Championship mode and leave your opponents choking.
Challenge friends to multiplayer: Demolish friends in four-player split-screen races or crush their hopes of domination in 4 intense new mini-games.
description
Get ready to pilot the world's most powerful trucks and go head-to-head in pulse-pounding off-road competitions all over the world. Whether you're grinding through the desert of Egypt, crunching up snowy mountains in Russia, or smashing up trees in California to make the ride a little bumpier for the guy behind you, keep your eyes on the prize: the cash you earn on the circuit goes to customize your trucks and build up your ultimate Monster machine.
More Info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1po2.html
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November 20th, 2006, 20:40 Posted By: wraggster
New Wii Game released:
description
Get ready to roam, rage and Rampage your way through cities of the world destroying everything in your path in Rampage: Total Destruction! George, Lizzy and Ralph are back along with 27 new monsters that you can find, collect and play as. Wander through 3D neighborhoods of major cities trashing everything in sight as you uncover hidden monsters and power-ups. As an added bonus the original arcade versions of Rampage and Rampage World Tour are included.
More info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1pov.html
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November 20th, 2006, 20:42 Posted By: wraggster
New Wii Game released:
features
Exclusively for Nintendo’s new-gen system Wii Red Steel is the only original first-person action game built from the ground up for the Wii.
The Weapon Is in Your Hand Take full advantage of the revolutionary Wii controller, and control the action like never before. You’ll replicate sword-fighting movements and eliminate enemies quickly by directly targeting and shooting them.
Master the Deadly Steel Execute deadly combo moves using multiple swords or choose from a variety of firearms for longer-range attacks.
Focus Is Key Learn to harness your mental power to unleash powerful attacks in dire situations, and use the “focus system” to freeze time and effectively target several enemies at once.
Become a Modern Samurai Learn the art of Japanese fighting, and then use these skills to take out your enemies or gain their respect and loyalty by sparing them.
Multiplayer Modes Challenge friends with various split-screen multiplayer modes to see who the real master is.
description
As the story unfolds, your fiancée has been kidnapped and her father – a Japanese mafia kingpin – murdered by a rival gang. The only way to save your loved one is to journey from Los Angeles to Japan and confront the Tokyo underworld.
More info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1po1.html
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November 20th, 2006, 20:44 Posted By: wraggster
New Wii Game released:
features
Turn the Wii Remote on its side and prepare for tons of speed! Jump, grind and pull off tricks to gain a boost down the steepest terrains in the world.
Choose from a wide variety of skateboards such as current, old school "fishtails," longboards and '70s skateboards, all of which have different attributes that will have an effect on gameplay.
Play as Tony Hawk, one of eight original skaters or create a character with Create-A-Skater.
description
Thrash on a higher level! Experience the breakneck speed of downhill skateboard racing and tear up the steepest terrains in the world while performing tricks and outmaneuvering opponents!
More Info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1pox.html
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November 20th, 2006, 21:20 Posted By: wraggster
New for Nintendo DS:
features
A wide range of gameplay elements - exploration, stealth, and puzzles - allows hours of entertainment.
Enhanced by high-quality movie stills and sharp gameplay visuals.
Players take on the role of Fern and use the stylus to feed, bathe, or pet Wilbur.
A variety of unlockable mini-games, including Wi-Fi and touch screen mini-games.
description
Charlotte's Web is coming to Nintendo DS, GBA, and PC just in time for the holidays! You'll be able to play this classic tale just before the release of the Nickelodeon Movies/Walden Media/Paramount Pictures holiday film starring Dakota Fanning, Oprah Winfrey, and Julia Roberts.
In the DS and GBA versions you can play as Wilbur, the pig, or Templeton, the rat. Explore the Zuckerman Farm, the countryside, a junkyard, and the Country Fair. Throughout the journey, you'll unlock arcade-style mini-games and take on a variety of amusing and complex missions. When you're not collecting letters of the alphabet to help Charlotte spell out messages in her web, you'll keep old Farmer Zuckerman occupied by stashing his firewood so he forgets all about your animal friends on the farm.
More info /buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1mld.html
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November 20th, 2006, 21:21 Posted By: wraggster
New for Nintendo DS:
features
Various modes: 5 modes of non-stop action which include Frontier, Endless, Stage, Time Attack and Wireless.
Multiple Characters: Go up against Vincent, Domingo, Patrick, Sherry, Nick the Hacker, Thomas, Pike, Bobby or Hank and beat them one after the other in Frontier mode
Special attacks: Show off your advanced skills and use a special attack to hinder your opponent's game.
Your own music instrument! Create your own original music by using the Sounds Sets and Patternizer.
description
The original concept developed by video game legend Gunpei Yokoi, comes to life on the Nintendo DS™! Re-imagined by the creative minds at Q Entertainment, GUNPEY delivers an addictive puzzle game experience, combined with exciting music and visuals for the ultimate game on the go. The player's objective is simple - or is it? Various line angles climb up the screen over five panels, and you must connect all the lines over the five panels, filling the screen from left to right. If an incomplete line reaches the top of the screen, the game is over!
More Info /buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1pxb.html
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November 20th, 2006, 21:23 Posted By: wraggster
New for Nintendo DS:
features
Tons of Tamagotchis: Over 100 Tamagotchis appear in Corner Shop 2!
Intelligent Tamagotchis: Your Tamagotchi partner has different "Friendship" levels that affect the dialogue!
Communicate wirelessly: Trade items and send message cards with your friends!
Send your friends personalized greetings: Take in-game screenshots, add notes, and send to your friends via wireless connection!
Use more than your stylus: Sing along with music at the concert using the microphone on your DS!
description
Welcome to the new Corner Shop, filled with your favorite Tamagotchis and 12 unique shops! Together with Memetchi, Kuchipatchi, and Mametchi, make your customers happy and grow your shops to Royal status! Earn "Gotchi Points" and buy new items, decorations, clothes and much much more for your Tamagotchi partner!
As you earn more Gotchi Points, you can open new shops like the Bowling Alley and Sushi Bar, or revisit newly improved favorites like the Flower Shop and Concert Hall!
So exchange pictures and messages with your friends wirelessly, or play with your Tamagotchi partner and experience a shopping wonderland today!
More Info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1pxc.html
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November 20th, 2006, 21:30 Posted By: wraggster
New Guide released:
features
Complete, detailed walkthrough!
Maps of every region and dungeon for Wii and Nintendo GameCube versions!
Detailed boss-slaying strategies!
Find every Piece of Heart, insect and Poe's soul!
Giant collectible poster inside!
description
Don't let the creatures of the Twilight Realm drive you howling mad! Use the Official Nintendo Player's Guide to ward off the darkness and become the hero of the biggest Zelda adventure yet.
More Info --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1mm6.html
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November 20th, 2006, 22:00 Posted By: wraggster
Via Gamefaqs
By now everyone knows that the Wii is not region free, but fret not. I imported all of the Naruto games on gamecube and had to order a boot disk (Freeloader) to get them to with my gamecube. Got my Wii tonight (I am loving this system so far) and decided to test out my import games. The didnt work using them alone, but I used freeloader and now my import games work on my Wii as if they were on my Gamecube.
Word of caution: I inserted the freeloader disk, and selected it from the disc channel, the system read it and restarted. Went back to the disc channel again, selected the freeloader and the system took me to the normal freeloader screen and asked me to swap the disk like normal. I am assuming that the freeloader disc needs to be in the system from the start, or it may restart after the first read. Either way it works, and I will be trading in my gamecube tomorrow.
To everyone who got their Wii, Enjoy!!
So all you Wii buyers remember you can use Gamecube games from any region with the help of Freeloader.
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November 20th, 2006, 22:04 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via tgdaily
Chicago (IL) - Nintendo had no problem getting rid of its first batch of its Wii gaming console. According to media reports, U.S. buyers snapped up about 600,000 devices within a few minutes after launch. Nintendo promised to follow up with 400,000 more consoles until the end of the year.
The least expensive of the three third generation gaming machines had a smashing start: At least if we believe NexGen wars, a website that tracks game console sales, Nintendo had sold more than 667,000 Wii consoles by Monday noon, more than double of what Sony was able to sell of its Playstation 3, which was estimated to have sold about 259,000 units initially and will remain in very limited supply until the second quarter of next year.
Microsoft, which has a one-year lead over its two competitors, has sold about 7.1 million Xbox 360 units so far.
While Nintendo had a much more generous launch allocation for the Wii available than Sony of its PS3, the bright white device still sold out within minutes. More than 1000 people were waiting in line at the main launch store, the Times Square location of Toys R Us. The average electronics store reportedly had between 60 and 100 Wiis available, while the PS3 was limited to less than 40 at large Best Buy locations and five to ten units at other retailers.
Ebay sales for the Wii have been brisk after launch, but are lacking the pricing dynamics of the PS3, which reached prices of more than $10,000 in the hours after launch. By Monday noon, there were 30,000 Wii consoles and accessories for sale through the online auction site. Including one or two games, Wiis were changing hands for about $300 and $400. Playstation 3 sales have cooled down considerably, with 60 GB models currently selling in the $1100 price range and 20 GB versions ending up at about $700.
Wii launched with game 20 titles. Nintendo said that the portfolio will increase by 13 by the end of the year.
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November 20th, 2006, 22:14 Posted By: wraggster
Heres an excerpt:
It is the year 1944. Countless restless souls filled with hatred and fear is born everyday because of World War II. With all their malicious energy directed towards humans, the evil Castlevania is once again summoned into the world and disaster threatens the living. Now having inherited the legendary whip in the vampire slaying Morris family, Jonathan Morris, together with his childhood friend and famous sorceress Charlotte Orlean, they fight their way into the castle.
Both Jonathan and Charlotte were expecting to face Dracula again but they learn that another evil was at work. A vampire artist from World War I named Brauner along with his two twin daughters Stella and Loretta are using paintings to control the energy in Castlevania for their own evil deeds. Now it’s up to Jonathan and Charlotte to destroy these paintings, weakening their power before they unleash their horror upon the human world.
Full article
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November 20th, 2006, 22:15 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via pcworld
The Wii's greatly innovative controller, coupled with its vast library of game titles from Nintendo's and Sega's library, make it a very attrctive (and affordable) gaming option.
What about those games?
The flagship game, without a doubt, is The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, and there's no real reason to explain why. Even those who won't know much about gaming will probably recognize that franchise.
From my first impressions, Zelda on the Wii lives up to the hype, but even games like Excite Truck and Madden 07 are titles that surprise with their innovative style of game play. Now, when you overthrow a pass to your receiver or crash into a tree, you won't have much to blame other than yourself. Gamers will probably appreciate something like that more.
With 30 titles hitting shelves before the New Year, along with another 30 retro games that will be available for download, the Wii lineup is pretty strong, but Nintendo will have to stay innovative and aggressive if they're to keep people's attention when games like Mass Effect and Too Human eventually come out for the other consoles.
Still, Nintendo has the advantage of having a library of games that reaches far beyond what we could imagine. Being able to play all of the GameCube's 530 titles without any defects ( a la the PS3 and Xbox 360) is a necessary add-on, but, when the game libraries of all the past Nintendo consoles are be made available, it's hard to pass up the chance to play some of those classics on a big screen. (For more on the PS3 vs. Wii debate, click here).
And let's not forget that the Sega library from the Genesis and Turbografx 16 will also be made available as well. You'll have to dish out some cash or use "Wii points" to get the games, so don't think they're being offered as freebies. Expect to fork over about US$5 for a retro NES game to US$10 for an N64 game.
How many will be made available hasn't been announced, but Nintendo definitely has a nice revenue stream in the works here, so rest assured, they won't keep those retro titles locked up for too long.
One thing that intrigues me about upcoming Wii titles is how an NHL game will play on this console. If you can be a quarterback in Madden, could you also take a slap shot in a game like NHL 07? Hopefully, we'll find out sooner than later.
Is it worth it?
If you're looking for something different and innovative, then damn right it is. Nintendo is gambling that, if they don't take on the other two big boys head-on, then they just might be able to reap the benefits of the untapped market that is casual and non-gamers.
The Wii isn't a console with bells and whistles, and I already explained why. If not for the games, this thing would be as useful as a doorstop.
Nintendo executives have already told me that they're not interested in going to HD until it becomes mass market, and that likely won't happen for another couple of years, at the least.
There will be those who scoff at the fact the graphics can't compete or that titles like Grand Theft Auto aren't on the horizon. But, the Wii will undoubtedly appeal to a lot of people, especially those who have been intimidated by the evolution and complexity of the gaming industry.
And, with a price point of $280, it's hard to go wrong. To put it in perspective, Apple's latest iPod is only $30 cheaper. Wii games are going for $60 right now, though it wouldn't surprise me if that drops another $10 over the next six to 12 months.
Ultimately, it comes down to what you enjoy playing most, but even if you have one of the other consoles, the Wii may still be an attractive option, especially since the price can only go down from here.
But, it's nice to see a console that's more about the games and the people that play them. If you dig that sort of thing, than grab a Wii controller and swing away.
I for one believe that purchasing a Nintendo Wii is worth it!
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November 20th, 2006, 22:19 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via punchjump
Wii Sports, a collection of five sports titles, is an excellent pack-in title for Nintendo's new system. The tennis, baseball, bowling, golf and boxing titles introduce players to the new Wii Remote and feature advanced motion-sensing that is as accurate as it is fun.
Wii Sports features five sports games: Tennis, Baseball, Bowling, Golf, and Boxing. Each employs full use of the Wii Remote for virtual movement; Boxing utilizes the Nunchuk controller for two-handed bouts.
Tennis includes doubles play for Single Game, Best of Three, and Best of Five for 1-4 players. Players control the racquet swing while the CPU controls player movement. The Wii Remote does a fantastic job to distinguish forehands, backhands, lobs, direction, and momentum via simulated racquet swings. In select cases ball direction may not be a direct correlation to on-screen movement, however, further distance from the TV set equates to better accuracy.
Baseball includes a three inning game where 1 – 2 players control batting and pitching. Fielding is controlled by the CPU. Bat movement corresponds directly to the screen for top accuracy. Batters can swing hard for a deep hit or light for a bunt. Players can throw fastballs, screwballs, curveballs, and splitters, though the game throw doesn't correspond to the actual throw with Wii Remote. The delay is unfortunate, as pitching is a less of an in-game experience than its batting counterpart.
Golf includes Beginner, Intermediate, Expert, and 9-Hole Game for 1-4 players. Players can choose Driver, Wedge, and Putter clubs for a basic golf experience. Golf club movement is sophisticated and requires the most finesse out of the five sports games. When players swing too hard a power meter will fluctuate to indicate excess power. A swing with tiny changes in momentum will be detected in great accuracy.
Bowling includes one mode for a standard game for up to 4 players. Players swing back the Wii Remote while holding the B trigger, and let go of the B trigger to simulate dropping the ball. The experience is very close to the real thing sans the bowling ball weight, and pin drop physics are very life-like. The game will likely be the easiest for most players to pick up and play.
Finally, boxing is a two-handed bout fest that utilizes the Nunchuk controller and Wii Remote simultaneously. Matches can be held for 1-2 players and the instant relay between controllers and on-screen movement creates fast and accurate play. Players can perform high and low jabs and hard punches, block by holding the controllers up, and shift position by leaning the body to the left or right. The experience is fun and provides a hard workout after a few bouts.
To compliment the sports collection, Wii includes Training and Fitness Modes. Training includes three exercises for each title and Fitness Mode is a age-determination trial that consists of three exercises from all sports games.
The graphics engine is simple and effective in Wii Sports. The game engine runs at 60 frames per second and flat textures cover Mii character bodies. Landscapes like tennis courts and golf courses are well produced, with defined textures and individual plant movement. The music tracks include mid-tempo selections that compliment each title. Additions like player indication beeps and punches through the Wii Remote speaker help define the overall experience.
Wii Sports is a winner for Nintendo that helps to introduce the console through effective motion-sensing games. Each title may not feature the depth of stand-alone titles, however players young and old, male and female, will experience fun video game sports on a whole new playing field.
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November 20th, 2006, 22:19 Posted By: wraggster
Via DSfanboy
Game Watch just updated their website with a ton of screenshots from the game, as well as a plethora of concept art for some of the game's proposed included characters. The game will be broken down better, in the hopes of making it easier for beginners to get into and play, with 3 different classes of difficulty. The game is currently scheduled for a December 14th release in Japan and will sell for 5,040 ¥ (or about $42 USD).
Screens Via Comments
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November 20th, 2006, 22:25 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via ign
UK, November 20, 2006 - The "wires" have been buzzing with the first reports from the Wii launch in the States. In comparison to the PS3 release, which was accompanied by masked robberies, drive-by shootings (with BB guns) and muggings, the Wii's electronic birth seemed a much friendlier affair.
The build up to the launch began with hardcore gamers camping outside big name stores like Best Buy, Wal-Mart and Fry's, to ensure they got their Wii when it went on sale at 12am on Sunday. However, once they got their new babies home, news of initial problems with both the console and the motion-sensing controller began rolling in.
It seems the main niggle (albeit only for an isolated few) appears to be an issue with the machine's firmware. Nintendo originally announced plans to release the console alongside a start-up disc including important firmware updates it didn't have time to pre-load onto the system prior to launch. However, someone clearly worked overtime at the Wii factory because the majority of consoles did ship with the latest firmware installed, therefore not requiring a separate disc. While this was good news for most gamers however, those who bought early production models still requiring the disc were left with a console that didn't work properly.
Other general problems being broadcast from across the Atlantic include trouble getting the Wii to connect online via a wireless router, the occasional issue with the remote not detecting certain movements and the devastating blow of the disc drive simply not reading games. Not too bad considering some of the teething issues experienced around the launch of Xbox 360, so we can safely say Miyamoto and pals are probably high-fiving each other while you read this.
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November 20th, 2006, 22:32 Posted By: wraggster
News/release from Campanile
My previous post is unaccessible, here's another one...
I didn't work on it for a while, but here are the small updates.
ToDo list :
- [DONE][NEEDS IMPROVEMENT] Evolution system
XP system
- [IN PROGRESS] In game Menu
Better fish informations
- [DONE] Class Objects (polymorphism is soooo great)
[ToDo] Bubbles
[DONE] Sparks (level-up / evolution system related)
[DONE] Coins
[DONE] Wave effect (may need some adjustments)
- [ToDo] Class Menu
- [IN PROGRESS] Sounds
- [ToDo] Speed system improvements / slow turns / Water consistency
- [Question] Keep drop pellet at top of the tank, or make it appear at stylus Y ?
Last updates :
[DONE] Added carnivorous fish, which will eat any fish for now (maybe only smaller fishes later, even if a small fish eating a big one sounds funny to me)
[DONE] Added blip fish, dunno what to do with it yet...
[NEEDS IMPROVEMENT] Money System, everything has a price now, but shopping system is not done yet (needs in game menu). Fishes drop money, money used to buy other fishes.
[NEEDS IMPROVEMENT] Added BGM, not a great mod, but the only non-techno one I found
[NEEDS IMPROVEMENT] Fishes now have different speeds, from swimming slowly to rush to food (see ToDo about speed system)
[IN PROGRESS] Fishes meeting and having a baby-fish debut
[IN PROGRESS] Preliminary gameplay, some dirty stuffs to clean, or fishes are getting hungry faster.
EDIT : Rough version added, you start with 100 money (you can buy one orange fish with "A"), food cost 10 and coins worth 25. You can drop one food at a time and buy blip fish with B and the most expensive carnivorous fish with X (or Y). Each fish drop quarters for now, the version is not really enjoyable yet, I was posting the news mainly to show the project is still alive....
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November 20th, 2006, 23:28 Posted By: wraggster
Boulder Dash was originally released back in 1984 on the Apple II, Commodore 64, and Atari 400/800 computers. Starring a brave prospector named Rockford, its popularity resulted in numerous sequels and ports to the Nintendo Entertainment System and arcades. The game was originally published by First Star Software, who still owns the rights to the franchise. Now First Star has finalized a deal with 10tacle Studios to co-publish new Boulder Dash titles for the Nintendo DS and PSP.
The original Boulder Dash.
10tacle is handling development of the new titles. Says Alexandra Gerb, 10tacle's Mobile Studios managing director: "With Boulder Dash we are proud to be able to continue one of the oldest and most famous brands in computer games. The tried and true concept has already delighted generations of computer, videogame and coin-operated arcade gamers, and now we want to give the brand our own accent by adding a number of innovations designed to take advantage of the capabilities these new platforms have to offer. We want to lend protagonist Rockford's adventures a fresh, modern style to get him into shape for the years to come."
Boulder Dash is scheduled to make its return in the second half of 2007.
Via IGN
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November 20th, 2006, 23:34 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via slate
I'll admit it—I was in love with the Nintendo Wii long before we'd ever met. And then, a few seconds after I touched those strange, new motion-sensing controllers, months of giddy anticipation vanished. I've played and won 14-hour-long Halo tournaments. I was a bird-slaughtering Duck Hunt master back when Times Square still had arcades. But the Wii, which is being marketed as the ideal system for newbies, made me feel like an incompetent novice. I don't blame myself. The ugly truth is that the Wii's already-legendary motion-detection system doesn't work very well.
Everything about the console is designed to welcome casual gamers, from that unfortunate name to the remote-shaped controller (aka the Wii Remote) that translates movement into in-game action. Internal gyroscopes and accelerometers detect tilt, rotation, and acceleration as you pantomime steering a car or slashing a sword. The wireless controller also acts as a pointer, using an optical sensor and a TV-mounted sensor bar to let you sweep crosshairs or a cursor across the screen. For complex games you can use an additional controller, which doesn't work as a pointer but can sense motion and has a traditional thumbstick. This device is called a nunchuk, since that's kind of what it looks like when you connect the two wireless controllers with a cord. But if you think you'll be able to whip them around like Bruce Lee, you're in for the first of many disappointments.
Nintendo wants you to believe that the Wii will tear kids off the couch and get them swinging virtual tennis rackets. There's also the suggestion that its intuitive game play could eliminate the steep learning curve that tends to repel both "casual gamers" and people who've never held a joystick before. When Time ran the first hands-on preview of the Wii, they included a photo of an ecstatic grandpa standing on his couch, controllers in hand.
I like to hear from user's about what they think about this. Do you believe that the wii motion detection doesnt work very well, when its suppose to be user friendly but is confusing even the most experienced gamers?
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November 20th, 2006, 23:43 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via kotaku
The hopefully non-prophetically named Singe did a little bit of research on Wii power consumption since the thing is on 24/7. Turns out that Nintendo's nifty new console isn't just light on power use, it's super light.
Wii:
- In Standby Mode: 10w
- Idle @ Wii menu: 17w
- Running a Wii Game (Test with Zelda / Trauma Center) in 480i: 17w
37" Sharp Aquos LCD TV:
- In Standby Mode: 40w
- Turned on: 180w
XBox 360:
- In Standby Mode: 2w
- Idle @ Dashboard: ~140w
- Running a Game: ~160w
- Playing a DVD: ~110w
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November 20th, 2006, 23:47 Posted By: gunntims0103
If you're overwhelmed by all the coverage of the Nintendo Wii and need to figure out just what the hell the fuss is all about, let us lay down the important info for you. This week, as it marks the official kickoff of the holiday spending orgy, er, shopping season, I'll be highlighting a hot holiday gadget every afternoon and spelling out just what you need to know about it when you see it on your kid's Christmas list. First up, the Wii.
What it is: The new gaming console from Nintendo.
Why it's cool: The controller, affectionately dubbed the Wiimote, is motion sensing. That means you can control the action on the screen by waving your arms around like a crazy person. Because the console is made by Nintendo, look for familiar names such as Mario and Zelda to be headed its way. Furthermore, you can buy older games from past systems via the Virtual Console.
How much it costs: The list price is $250, but you'll probably want to get an extra Wiimote for it, which will cost you an extra $60 if you get it with the Nunchuck attachment (a joystick you hold in your other hand), and the games are $50 each as well, so a complete setup will set you back $400-$500, depending on how many games you get. If you can't find a Wii in your area, which is very possible due to the high demand, you'll probably pay $350-$400 on eBay for one. But be persistent! New shipments of the Wii are headed to stores all the time, so you should be able to get one if you put some effort in.
I realize that many of us still havent purchased a Wii. How many of us wii be purchasing or getting a wii for the holidays?
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November 21st, 2006, 01:02 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via shacknews
t should be noted that as of 24 hours ago, I was not a football fan. I didn't watch it, I didn't play it during high school, I can't make the damn ball spiral when I throw it, and I sure as heck didn't waste my time with any football video games. However, when it was announced way-back-when that EA would be tweaking their newest Madden (the 2007 edition) for Nintendo's then-forthcoming Wii console, I got intrigued. I still maintained an intense disinterest in hiking a ball during a backyard game of pigskin, but using the "Wiimote"? Yeah, okay; I wanted to try that.
Turns out a good thing I did. Madden 07 for the Wii has officially sparked my interest in football--if only in the realm of video games, and certainly only in the context of playing on the Wii. The reason: EA really put some time into this one; a good thing, considered many gamers probably thought they'd simply tack some features on and toss the game out the door. Oddly enough, it almost feels as if EA actually did do this, but instead of a rushed feel, the Wii-specific features feel like they've been a part of the popular NFL franchise for years.
The main aspect of Madden on the Wii I anticipated the most was feeling like an all-star quarterback, so it seems overly obvious that I was first and foremost interested in how I'd have to throw the ball. To a degree, it works exactly how one might predict: you find an open receiver on the screen, and you swing the Wii remote after you've been hiked the ball. However, the game requires a bit more precision than that; before you swing the controller, you press a corresponding button on the remote (e.g., A, d-pad Up, d-pad left, et cetera) and then swing the remote to perform an awe-inspiring pass. You don't have to aim in the direction of the receiver, because you've already selected him; just swing the remote.
At first I was disappointed that I didn't simply have to swing the controller in the direction of a receiver; if a guy was open in the upper-left corner of the screen, I should just be able to swing the remote in that direction, right? Yeah, that would've been perhaps a bit more intuitive, but I think EA foresaw the potential for a large margin of error, and with passing making or breaking a football game, they wanted to make sure a bit more precise control was needed. This doesn't detract from the game play, however. You still feel more involved than if you were just tapping a button to throw, and that's what the Wii controller is all about, of course.
Everything else requiring remote and/or nunchuk motion functionality feels just as intuitive. You kick the ball by first aiming the target arrow with the analog stick, then press A, then after dipping the controller down, you pull it back up. Not too hard, however, or your kick will be too wild and high. It'll take a few tries to get used to kicking, as you tend to whip the controller up harder than you really need to at first, thus making your kick go absolutely insane. It's a nice idea, though, and definitely ups the immersion factor.
You tackle simply by running into the guy via the stick, but if you push forward with both controller peripherals, you can slam into the sap ever harder. Juke by flicking your nunchuk wrist left or right; stiff arm by pushing the Wii remote wrist left or right. Smart mapping by EA, as the sprint button is set to Z, so you don't have to hold a button on one controller piece while flailing about with another, which would have felt more than a little awkward. There are other nice additions too, such as the ability to rally the hometown crowd as the quarter back by raising the two controller pieces in the air.
Overall, I'm having a lot of fun with Madden. I still have no desire to run around tossing a ball, but on the Wii, I had a lot of fun with a football game for the first time. This one warrants a look if you're a football fan, or even a regular gamer looking for a fun party game.
check out screens and all of duty 3 impressions here
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November 21st, 2006, 02:35 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via business week
Our partners over at Next Generation shut themselves away to play with the Wii. Here's their take on the much-talked-about console
First things first. When you heft the remote controller’s measured weight in your dominant hand and point it at your screen for the first time, it works almost flawlessly out of the box, without calibration. And once you get through the customary name and date set up and click on your first Wii Channels option, it’s amazing how intuitive the whole thing is. What was once an outlandishly wacky concept becomes an obvious one in a second, and you can’t help but wonder why it wasn’t thought of earlier.
The Mii Channel is the first place you should visit. Creating a Mii personal avatar is a charming activity, and while the options to create your character are sparse it’s humorous to try to rig the system’s limited option into a caricature of your face. When you’re done, you’re given the option of transferring your Mii to your remote, and doing so is creates a real sense of ownership of that controller.
Bringing the console online is the next step in the process, and it is by far the most painful of all the options. It’s not that it’s difficult – it’s almost identical to bringing a DS online, right down to the layout of the interface – but once you do the system will automatically update. Twice. Each of these updates feels like an eternity, though it doesn’t seem like these waits will be particularly frequent after launch. Once you’re online you’ll be asked if you want to link this system to your account at Nintendo’s website. Do so, and it will automatically configure everything.
Online Options
There’s not a great deal to do online yet. The News and Weather Channels are still inactive, though they’re largely redundant features in markets outside of Japan. The Virtual Console Store is likewise fairly barren – there’s a killer app in Super Mario 64, available off the Nintendo 64 for the first time, but most of the other titles worth playing have been packaged and repackaged multiple times since their original release – the original Legend of Zelda, for example. Still, it provides a solid proof of concept.
You can enter a credit card number or the number off a prepaid card to acquire some Wii points, in a convenient exchange rate of one penny per point. From there, selecting a game is a matter of simple clicks, and a short wait while the game downloads – you can’t do anything during this time except play with the load bar, entertainingly retooled as an interactive running Mario. When he collects all the coins your game is ready to play. Nintendo has thought about this experience in its entirety.
The Virtual Console works well. Every download comes with a digital game manual, and the emulation seems beyond reproach. The classic controller used for most of these games is a great piece of hardware – it’s a fully featured, comfortable first party control for less than $20 – though its odd placement of the Z button (tiny, and placed in duplicate between the bumpers and the remote connection cable) made some Super Mario 64 moves much more difficult. It’s hardly a big deal, though.
Backwards compatibility
The GameCube backwards compatibility is likewise perfect, at least in the time we spent with it. In fact, once you put the game in and select the game from the Disc Channel, all additional Wii functionality is disabled, and the system becomes for all intents and purposes just a GameCube. So it’s a nice second life for a console that didn’t get nearly as good as it deserves, and that its library can piggyback on its much more marketable progeny system is a very sweet boon.
Of course it’s necessary to mention the pack-in game, Wii Sports, as it’s presence in every Wii box makes it a major part of the experience. The verdict is that it’s definitely fun, though a little bit light on content and mechanic complexity. Which makes it the perfect system introduction, actually – watching your friend’s Mii avatars compete in a series of athletic events in a delight, and as you swing way too dramatically in Baseball or take unnecessary lead-in steps during Bowling your head can’t help but swim with ideas, where the very best minds in our industry could possibly take this setup. It’s also a great party game, with every event in it having at least some charm – though Baseball becomes rather repetitive and Boxing has some issues with control reaction. It’s worth spending time with, so it’s good that we’re all getting it.
As for the rest of the games, well, they’re launch games (except for the re-appropriated swansong Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess). But the thing about them is, much like the Nintendo DS’s launch games, even when they weren’t great they still felt important. They felt like they were paving the way for something better. The much greater breadth of the Wii’s launch lineup shoulders this burden as well, so don’t be surprised if the third game in your collection (after Wii Sports and Zelda) is charming, yet awkward.
The Wii has had a great launch. It’s inexpensive and easy to acquire, has a solid lineup of genuinely fun games, and even has a killer app. Its network services work well out of the box, its added-value features feel genuinely valuable, and even though the graphics are blurry and low-resolution, it still feels like an elegant, high-tech Japanese machine. There’s plenty to do with it now, but the real reason it feels like its worth the asking cost is the eventual, innovative brilliance this hardware setup can’t help but spawn.
In the meantime, come for the Zelda and catch up with the GameCube games you missed. There’s plenty of time to watch this system stretch its long, long legs.
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November 21st, 2006, 04:29 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via gamersmark
love the Mario series. Each game that comes out gracing that name, or any of his counterparts, usually leaves me with new experiences that were full worth the price of admission. When I bought Yoshi’s Island DS, I expected it to provide me with a new, irreplaceable feeling that I would cherish for a lifetime. I guess that was too much to expect from developer Artoon. Yes, it looks like Nintendo stumbled on the game based on one of the most popular entries to the Mario universe.
"do not call this a sequel because at no time does it feel like one."
I do not call this a sequel because at no time does it feel like one. If you never played the original Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island SNES game, this game will be for you. For the rest of us, you’ll wonder why Artoon made the storyline a continuation but made the gameplay take a step back. The controls are functional at best. I was perplexed though, because the game doesn’t utilize all four face buttons the DS provides. Instead, the programmers made 3 buttons do 4 actions total, meaning one button must hold two duties. Rather than let that remaining button control Yoshi directly, it assists the player by moving the camera up and down when held. This option is helpful to an extent, but why not have it also scroll left and right? The button would then be operational enough to be enjoyable. It seems the only reason Artoon did this is to combat another big flaw: the game filling in pixels between the screens.
The gap that the game fills in between the top and bottom screens hinders gameplay quite a bit. This leads to frustrating moments where you are attempting to get an item, or even take down an enemy, only to have the camera automatically scroll up and hide the moving object. If developers wanted to challenge the player, they should have made the game harder instead of frustrating to play. A system should be a gateway for a game; instead this game is hindered by the Nintendo DS’s specifications. The fallout continues into the sound, where I am left wondering if coins were always this annoying to collect.
The sound that follows after you obtain some items is equivalent to a person running their nails on a chalkboard. The sound stands out not only because of that but also because every song in the game sounds almost the same, with small variations based on level theme. When I selected the overworld view, I was expecting to be greeted with the well-known Yoshi’s Island cheery theme. That jumpy, upbeat, and colorful track has been replaced with a cold, mechanical, and dull death song. The track is out of place, especially when compared to the excellent job the artists did with the game.
"this game is either broken or under-developed."
The artwork in the game fits perfectly in the Mario world, contrary to the rest of the features. Yoshi really stands out in his world, and I feel that the graphical art used not only fit the game, but evolved from the original. The characters are given a fresh coat of paint, and are full of new surprises that come in the form of gameplay. The babies play decently enough. I’m not sure if their actions are limited because they are babies, or because the developers didn’t want to bother expanding each character’s personality. While each baby is indeed unique, none seems deep enough for the characters they are representing. They seem like one-trick ponies that are constantly switched out. This doesn’t provide deeper gameplay; it only gives the player more frustrating memories.
There is one aspect that earns this game some points. The minigames are fun and addictive; more so than the main game. I found myself more interested about how far I could flutter than how far I had to go to unlock Wario (not far, by the way). It’s a shame that multiplayer was removed, because I can see where this could have given the game some wings. As it stands though, this game is either broken or under-developed.
"You see, this what mediocre developers do: make mediocre games."
Nintendo, I can forgive you for outsourcing indirect Mario titles. Those do not screw with the Mario timeline in any way, and provide fans a chance to see their favorite characters in a new light. However, what you have done by giving Artoon access to the Yoshi’s Island series is uncalled for. There are many plot holes, incorrect ideas (Baby DK lives on Yoshi’s Island? Baby Mario WASN’T raised in Brooklyn?!), and terrible features in the game that I am really not that surprised about. You see, this what mediocre developers do: make mediocre games.
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November 21st, 2006, 06:11 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via usatoday
There's a reason "Legend" accompanies the title.
Nintendo's favorite hero, Link, kicks off the Wii launch with Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, another heroic adventure that cements the franchise as one of gaming's best.
Zelda returns with the same nail-biting action and brain-teasing dungeons. And new gameplay elements and the Wii's innovative controls immerse you deeper than any previous Zelda title.
The story begins with Link working as a farm hand. After friends from his village are kidnapped., Link is sucked into a dark realm and transformed into a wolf. There, he meets Princess Zelda, who details Hyrule's descent into eternal twilight. Link then sets off to destroy this new evil and pull Hyrule back into the light. The story starts off slow, but turns quite intense as you progress.
Visually, Zelda is enchanting. Graphics don't offer next-gen horsepower, but landscapes and dungeons still look stunning. The sound package is equally fantastic, especially with the Wii remote. Hearing the clangs of swords from the remote or arrows leaving your hand enliven the action. The game's music is powerful, adding to the epic nature of your adventure.
The pacing is superb, providing enough time to learn new skills yet not dragging the storyline too slowly. You'll master basic weapons from your sword to a slingshot before upgrading to items like boomerangs and bows and arrows.
Once you adjust to the Wii controls, Zelda is easy to pick up. The left nunchuk is used for movement and targeting. The remote controls weapons, items and your map. Whipping the remote left to right executes sword slashes, while a quick twirl of the nunchuk unleashes a powerful spin attack. Swordplay is decent, but occasionally borders on repetitive.
Fortunately, the gameplay elements keep Zelda engaging. Link can only enter areas blanketed in twilight as a wolf, including a new set of actions. Using your senses uncovers hidden areas and items, or dig into the ground to burrow under homes. You'll also receive the help of Midna, a shady character tasked by Princess Zelda to assist you. Mostly, Midna offers clues on conquering the game's puzzles, as well as warping between lands and reaching difficult areas.
What are especially impressive are the tasks you attempt outside the action. With a fling back and forth, the remote becomes a rod for Link's fishing tasks. In an attempt to access one of Zelda's early dungeons, Link must sumo wrestle a tribe leader to advance. Even as a wolf, you learn how to howl to access secret items. The action is almost too easy, but it's forgotten when you learn so many different things.
In many ways, Twilight Princess is textbook Zelda. Dungeons are as challenging as ever, heightening the levels of danger and action. Yet the inclusion of a new control scheme and subtle changes to gameplay keep Zelda as fresh a franchise as its debut 20 years ago.
If you're fortunate enough to secure a Wii, Twilight Princess is a must-own title.
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November 21st, 2006, 06:13 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via cbgames
Nintendo’s Wii console launch kicked off with a midnight store opening at New York’s Toys “R” Us in Times Square on Boardwalk and Universal Citywalk’s Gamespot. No reports of gun violence, robberies, drive-by shootings, or hi-tech hijackings of deliveries have been attached to Nintendo’s new console. Definitely good news for the Big ‘N’.
A marketing director for Nintendo, Dawn Paine, commented that “The success of the Wii launch in the US this weekend was phenomenal and is very encouraging. Hundreds of people queued up to purchase a Wii and fans weren't disappointed by the atmosphere at New York’s Times Square Toys “R” Us and Universal Citywalk’s Gamestop.
With just over 3 weeks until launch, we are very excited about Wii arriving in the UK and look forward to a really successful launch. Whether you're a non gamer or an avid gamer, Wii looks set to be top of all the Christmas lists this year, following in the footsteps of Nintendo DS as a groundbreaking market leader.”
I bet there’s a lot of people shaking in their boots over there at Sony. Everything bad that could have happened for a console leading up to its launch, happened to the PS3: Hardware shortages, numerous reports of malfunctions, over-heating, and software glitches. Not to mention the criminal acts of robbery surrounding the release of the PS3 in both Japan and the United States. Nintendo was the nice one out of the big three, and here’s hoping they continue to have a successful launch.
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November 21st, 2006, 07:47 Posted By: wraggster
New Wii Game released and probably the biggest Wii game of the year from SuccessHK:
Link, a young man raised as a wrangler in a small, rural village, is ordered by the mayor to attend the Hyrule Summit. He sets off, oblivious to the dark fate that has descended upon the kingdom. When he enters the Twilight Realm that has covered Hyrule, he transforms into a wolf and is captured. A mysterious figure named Midna helps him break free, and with the aid of her magic, they set off to free the land from the shadows. Link must explore the vast land of Hyrule and uncover the mystery behind its plunge into darkness.
For Nintendo's long-awaited Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, the designers have split the game into two versions -- one for GameCube, and one specially designed to make use of the Wii utilizing the powers of the Wii controller for all-new ways of exploring Hyrule.
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November 21st, 2006, 13:02 Posted By: Darksaviour69
With six titles breaking the one million sales mark
Nintendo has revealed that the DS has sold over seven million units across Europe, with six titles breaking the one million units sales mark.
Pet simulation Nintendogs has sold over four million units in Europe, while Dr. Kawashima's Brain Training and Animal Crossing: Wild World have both racked up one million sales apiece.
Nintendo's mascot continues to appeal, with Super Mario 64, Mario Kart DS and New Super Mario Bros. all enjoying sales of over 1.5 million units in the region.
"We are delighted by the success of the Nintendo DS and DS Lite and especially pleased to see that we have exceeded the one million mark with games that appeal to both non-gamers and traditional gamers," said Laurent Fischer, Nintendo's Euro marketing director.
"Nintendo is proud of its role in expanding the gaming market and we hope to continue this success with the launch of the Wii in Europe this December," he added.
Gamesindustry.com
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November 21st, 2006, 13:50 Posted By: Dee-Lite
Nintendo may have sold in excess of a million Wii consoles on launch day, Next-Gen (note NOT nexgen) estimates:
Nintendo Wii got off to a flyer yesterday with major retailers reporting sell-outs. Although Nintendo has not released official figures, day one sell-through should be at well over a million. This would significantly up the current figure noted by NexGen Wars, which at the time of writing stands at just below 700.000. You may ask yourself how that site comes up with those figures. I asked the owner about how he gathers the figures and this is what he mailed back:
There is no special secret to getting these. It basically just takes time and research to estimate the numbers as closely as possible.
What I have done is gotten charts of monthly sales for the past few years, and figured out certain trends. Then I have gotten past sales data and estimated the pace at which the consoles will sell. After I have the estimate and the counter running, I just watch out for anny official announcements, and adjust anything accordingly.
The site has been up since early July, and I haven't had to adjust the sales for the Xbox 360 since then. So far my estimation method has been pretty much right on. Now for the new consoles it is a little harder since there is no previous sales data to go off of. What I do for these is research how many they are expecting to have on launch and by the end of the year. For the launch counter I get it to around the number expected, and then I slow it down to pace it so that it will reach a good estimate for the end of the year, and as usual I will adjust anything if any official word comes in.
No, the numbers aren't perfect, but so far it seems to have been a very good estimate.
I myself am confident that NexGen Wars is as reliable a source as it gets, in the absence of official figures. In this case, I do believe the Next-Gen estimate, though, and would not be surprised if NexGen adjusted their numbers accordingly.
Nintendo refused to comment on this story. In fact, the company has not released any shipment and sales figures concerning the US launch - and they told me that they do not know when that data will be made available.
So the counters some of you have in your signatures are around 300'000 out compared to more likely figuers
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November 21st, 2006, 17:04 Posted By: wraggster
Barnyard is a quirky adventure game based on the film from Nickelodion, in which players take control of a new cow in town, and must complete various challenges and mini games as they develop relationships with the other animals.
Unlike the usual run-of-the-mill movie licence for toddlers, Barnyard features an interesting time mechanic that, at days and nights pass, it's environments and gameplay will apparently be effected.
It's not got the words 'Twilight' or 'Steel' in the title, so it probably won't be at the top of any Christmas lists, but it looks like one of the better movie licences that'll go on sale on the Wii launch day - December 8.
Screens Via Comments
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November 21st, 2006, 17:17 Posted By: wraggster
The joys of having a Wii on launch has come to a sudden, disturbing end for a few gamers in the US, who've reported an online update fed to their console through the WiiConnect 24 service has killed their new console.
According to IGN, faulty consoles affected by the update display an error code indicating the nature of problem, with the most fatal codes being 110213 and 32002.
Users who experience problems can either contact Nintendo to get a replacement console sent to them or, if their Wii already contains data they wish to keep, they have to send their console to Nintendo for repair.
But it could be almost two weeks before a working unit is returned to them, in which time said gamer, who may well have queued up for many hours in sheer anticipation of getting their Wii, could turn homicidal and hit the streets to batter people with their temporarily useless Wii Remotes.
Lets hope Nintendo sort this out right away
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November 21st, 2006, 17:30 Posted By: wraggster
Via Engadget
Wiimotes are becoming finely guided missiles, or so the internets would have us believe. The second set of destroyed TV pics comes direct from Michaela, who tells us that her seven year old girl was also playing Wii Sports bowling when her wrist strap broke as well, sending the controller rocketing toward the TV at a glass-cracking lawsuit-inducing pace. Now, we find the Wii Sports bowling thing to be an interesting coincidence, but it seems a little peculiar that a seven year old could produce enough force rolling that ball to tear her strap apart. We're not saying this is the first in what could be a long line of TV-grubbing copycats, but we think the time is officially upon Nintendo to step in before a few hundred thousand straps recalled turns into a few million -- and countless more televisions get themselves busted up royal.
Screenshot Via Comments
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November 21st, 2006, 17:39 Posted By: wraggster
To help others it might be a good time to say which Wii game impresses you most and why ?
Any answers via comments
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November 21st, 2006, 17:40 Posted By: wraggster
Gamasutra reports on comments by Nintendo's Reggie-Fils Aime, who is claiming the company will have sold 1 Million Wii consoles by December 1st.From the article:
"Nintendo's previously stated plans called for the company to ship approximately 4 million consoles globally before the end of 2006. It is not clear whether the new figures stated by Fils-Aime are still in line with these numbers, since no estimate for Japanese or European sales were given. Sony's plans call for 1 million consoles sales in the U.S. by the end of March, 2007. When interviewed by Reuters, Fils-Aime also commented on the potential lifespan of the Wii, suggesting that a four, five or even six year lifespan was 'just about right.'"
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November 21st, 2006, 19:20 Posted By: wraggster
Newsnight in the UK a current affairs TV program have covered the releases of the Wii and PS3.
Check out the Video on youtube -->
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November 21st, 2006, 19:23 Posted By: wraggster
Via Kotaku
These are not meant to be, in anyway, complete reviews of the games, just quick impressions for each. I grade games from A to F. There is no A+ or F-. As a baseline for 360 owners, I just gave Gears of War an A-.
PS3
Blast Factor (C+): Retro shooter with an interesting twist, but not enough to be original.
Cash Gun Chaos (C): Fun little title, probably not worth $10, but still worth playing.
Dark Kingdom (D+): Role-Playing game with sub-par next-gen graphics and crappy controls.
Genji: Days of the Blade (C+): Button masher with impressive graphics and camera issues.
Gundam Crossfire (B): Fun, quasi-technical mech fighter with a steep learning curve and insane difficulty.
Madden 07: (C+): Madden 07, just with a tad better graphics and mostly useless motion controls.
Marvel Ultimate Alliance (B-): Addictive slug-fest with amazing character choices.
NBA 07 (B+): Fast-paced, graphically impressive baller.
Need for Speed Carbon (C): Unimpressive graphics, generic racing.
Resistance: Fall of Man: (A-) Addictive, though not entirely original shooter with decent single player campaign and amazing online play.
Ridge Racer 7 (B-): Amazing arcade racer with intuitive controls and impressive graphics.
Tony Hawk's Project 8: (C-): Annoying controls, more of the same.
Wii
Excite Truck (B): Fun in short bursts, but not deep enough to be a mainstay.
Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz (C-): Annoying, derivative crap with a new control mechanism.
The Legend of Zelda: The Twilight Princess (B): Another Zelda adventure with a few neat twists and interesting controls.
Trauma Center: Second Opinion (B): Nice port of the DS title, though a little too similar to the portable version of the game to be worthwhile for those who have played it.
Wii Sports (B-): One step above mini-games, fun, but more toy than game.
I'll make sure to add quickie grades as I play through more games.
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November 21st, 2006, 19:26 Posted By: wraggster
If you're not getting all your gaming news from Glamour magazine—and really, why aren't you— then you could've missed this big spread on the new console. Between articles on "why the wrong man can be so right for you," comes word that the Wii is fem-friendly. Here are five reasons why:
1. Because isn't about time we had something he wants, but can't get his hands on?
2. Price per play it's cheaper than a swanky gym membership
3. Price per laugh it's better than a night out on the town
4. It's one more reason for the girls to come round and the boys to go out
5. Forget a designer sofa, this is the only home accessory a girl needs
There are also tips on hosting your own Wii party complete with cupcakes and cocktails. Heh.
Screens via Comments
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November 21st, 2006, 19:31 Posted By: wraggster
This Thanksgiving Comedy Central is giving away 48 hourly prize packages that include a Wii and TomTom GPS.
For a chance to Winn you just need to watch Comedy Central from 11 a.m. Thursday to 11 p.m. Sunday and write down the codes every hour. Then you need to enter them into the site and maybe win something.
You will also be entered to win the grand prize: a tricked-out 06 Toyota Scion xB with a built in customized Wii and TomTom GPS, a Wii, a copy of Excite Truck and $5,000 cash.
Fortunately, you don't need to watch all 48-hours, though the more you watch, the more codes you get and the better your chance at winning.
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November 21st, 2006, 19:39 Posted By: wraggster
Play Asia are doing another of their excellent Weekly Specials, heres the full info:
Weekly Special: Konami's handheld soccer game Winning Eleven DS for Nintendo DS™ at US$ 19.90 only - offer valid for 1 week
From the publisher: Winning Eleven DS once again features the graphical and gameplay tweaks that enable each new title to play completely differently from previous incarnations. The shooting system has been the subject of extensive retouching, now enabling players to pull off much more accurate snap shots as well as being able to exert a much larger feeling of control when going for quick half volleys or difficult full volleys.
DS owners will get to play Winning Eleven wherever they are. However, the handheld version also features a revised camera angle, to make it easier to view the action on the smaller screens, without losing any of the gameplay.
Konami's handheld soccer game Winning Eleven DS for Nintendo DS™ is now available at discounted US$ 19.90 only.
As usually, this weekly special is valid for exactly 1 week (if not sold out earlier) and this time limited to a maximum purchase of 3 units per customer. As a small restriction, please also notice that you cannot use any further discount coupons along with this special offer.
More Info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...9-en-84-n.html
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November 21st, 2006, 19:42 Posted By: wraggster
Newly released today:
Jump Ultimate Stars is the sequel to one of the best selling games of 2005, Jump Super Stars. It is the second collaboration between Nintendo of Japan and Jump magazine, this time incorporating 300 characters from 40 Shonen Jump properties.
The "Koma" battle system will still be used in this sequel with the original 4-by-5 grid and touch screen support. However a number of improvements have been made, including calling support characters into battle via L/R button, without using the touchpad. Characters can now cling on to ledges when falling adjacent to them and some of the stages include areas that can be reached by destroying walls, even the floor and ceiling.
As another major improvement, Jump Ultimate Stars now supports Wi-Fi battles, which allows gamers all around the world to combat against each other.
More Info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1d3q.html
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November 21st, 2006, 19:43 Posted By: wraggster
Newly released today:
features
aka. Lunar Knights
Two different heroes with unique powers and weapons
In-game day/night cycle and weather affects gameplay
Use the touch pen to solve puzzles and guide your vehicle through 3D shooter mini games
From the renowned design studio Kojima Productions
description
Descend into the gothic Sci-Fi world of Lunar Knights and take control of two warriors on a quest to reclaim the world from the vampiric legion. Spin together tornados, guide down flaming meteors, and blow together snowstorms in Kojima Productions first ever title on Nintendo DS®!
More info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1kud.html
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November 21st, 2006, 19:46 Posted By: wraggster
Newly released today:
features
Use the Wii Remote and Nunchuk to recreate character super-moves
Over 100 DBZ warriors, including many that have never been seen before in a video game
In-game transformations players can trigger in real-time
Team up with up to two other Z-Warriors to complete exciting missions ripped right from the TV show
Post customizable character codes to the Internet
Nine different game modes, including single and multiplayer battles
Mini-games and tag-team fighting
description
Dragon Ball Z®: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 takes the acrobatic and intense 3D flying and fighting dynamic made popular in last year’s blockbuster and takes it to a whole new level with exciting new features sure to please die-hard Dragon Ball fans and those new to the franchise. Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 offers the complete DBZ mythology from Dragon Ball to Dragon Ball GT with a staggering roster of over 100 DBZ heroes and villains and an expansive story mode that allows players to recreate some of the storied confrontations from the TV show, or all-new showdowns of their own with characters that never actually fought in the animated series. Lightning-fast fighting, light RPG and action gameplay elements give players the power to engage in titanic battles set in 15 vast and vibrant 3D highly destructible environments. The game also features levels that are twice the size of those in the original, in-game transformations, tag battles, an all new vanishing attack and complete environmental destruction.
More Info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1pop.html
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November 21st, 2006, 20:24 Posted By: wraggster
New from SuccessHK
Superman Returns brings you the action of the blockbuster movie and six decades of published stories. Playing as the Man of Steel, use your complete arsenal of super powers to protect Metropolis from notorious villains only Superman can stop. Experience what it's like to be Superman like never before with Superman Returns!
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November 21st, 2006, 20:39 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via spong
Marketing website, Brand Republic, is reporting that Nintendo of Japan has forced its U.K. division to change the forthcoming television ads for the UK Wii launch.
“It is understood that the Japanese video-games company was unhappy with the documentary-style launch ads, created by Leo Burnett, and stepped in to make them "look more like ads", according to a source.
(Ad Agency) Leo Burnett had been expected to handle the launch of the console across Europe. However, UK marketing director Dawn Paine said that the agency would not be working on the pan-European launch campaign, but declined to comment on the identity of the agency tasked with handling the launch.”
SPOnG has contacted Nintendo for comment and we’ve been sent the press statement post-haste. It says, ““Nintendo UK is very pleased with the Wii TV advertising campaign that Leo Burnetts UK have created. We have decided to run this campaign, which conveys the emotional response and sheer fun factor that Wii delivers in the New Year when we broaden our communication to a wider audience from gamer to non gamer alike."
That’s OK then.
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November 21st, 2006, 20:41 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via movie web
Nintendo has made a decision regarding their Wii console that could boost its popularity even more.
In a story from Video Business, it seems that the gamemaker is going to offer "DVD movie playback" on the new console. Apparently, the Wii will be updated with "the feature in 2007, using a software engine provided by Sonic Solutions."
It seems "back when the Wii was code-named Revolution, DVD playback was part of the specification via a small internal add-on. After last May's Electronic Entertainment Expo, however, DVD compatibility disappeared from the feature list. In September, Nintendo explained the removal as market-driven, as DVD players were so inexpensive and pervasive that the company saw little need to add extra hardware options to the Wii that would drive up the cost for consumers."
There is currently no explanation about why Nintendo decided to make the switch. The company hasn't officially "announced the feature, which was made public in a Sonic press release."
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November 21st, 2006, 20:45 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via legitreviews
AMD today congratulates Nintendo on the successful launch of the revolutionary Wii video gaming console. The AMD "Hollywood" graphics processor resulted in Nintendo delivering a brand new level of immersive gameplay and interaction for consumers in North America.
"Nintendo's fresh approach to the way people play video games is generating a tremendous amount of excitement around the world. The launch of the Wii is a great achievement for Nintendo and a win for gamers everywhere who finally get their hands on this exciting new video game system," said Dave Orton, executive vice president, Visual and Media Business, AMD. "Having powered the graphics in the Nintendo GameCube, AMD is delighted to strengthen its relationship with Nintendo as it drives the next revolution in video games with the Wii."
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November 21st, 2006, 20:48 Posted By: wraggster
Japan's biggest game magazine has given its opinion on the Wii, and the opinion seems to be, on the whole, positive. A little over a week before the system's 12/2 Japanese release date, Famitsu reviewed the full lineup of launch titles. Here's how the games scored.
Necro Nesia (Spike): 8,7,6,7
Super Monkey Ball (Sega): 8,8,8,7
Wing Island (Hudson): 5,6,6,5
Kororinpa (Hudson): 6,6,6,6
SD Gundam Scud Hammers (Banpresto): 8,8,9,8
Ennichi no Tatsujin (Bandai Namco): 7,7,7,6
Tamagotchi no Pika Pika Daitouryou (Bandai Namco): 7,7,7,5
Red Steel (Ubisoft): 8,9,9,8
Trauma Center (Atlus): 8,9,8,7
Elebits (Konami): 8,8,8,8
Super Swing Golf (Tecmo): 8,7,7,7
Odoru Made in Wario (Nintendo): 8,9,8,9
Zelda Twilight Princess (Nintendo): 9,10,9,10
Crayon Shin Chan (Banpresto): 7,8,7,6
For the interested, the GameCube version of Twilight Princess scored 10, 10, 9, 9 in this issue. All but one of the reviewers were different, so it's hard to say which version the magazine preferred. The reviewer comments seemed to suggest that the GCN version, while lacking some of the freshness of the Wii version, offers a feeling of precise control thanks to the standard control system.
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November 21st, 2006, 21:31 Posted By: wraggster
via rpgsite
Being in the inner circle of several gaming publications, I often get wind of rumours and supposed "plans" that never happen. However, I made it my personal mission to investigate as many as possible.
Today, I heard from the PR agency of a company rather close to Nintendo (who must remain nameless) that there's going to be a very exciting Wii launch in the UK - and it's going to be announced this week.
After making more calls around, I can confirm that the UK retailer Gamestation has been chosen by Nintendo to help them give the console a European launch to remember.
Gamestation is no stranger to deals with the big gaming companies - just weeks ago we reported that their entire lower floor of one store became the Microsoft section - painted green, with over 16 360s playable, both in and out of demo units.
The Wii Launch is set to happen at two Gamestation Stores - Birmingham New Street; the largest in the country, and where the Xbox Floor is, and for all the Scots their Edinburgh store will also be holding an event.
Considering this what Microsoft did to the store just generally, not even for a launch party, it'll be extremely exciting to see what happens. Gamestation's Head Office confirmed that both stores would be opening at Midnight, and there would be an invite-only party to celebrate the Wii launch as customers pick up their consoles from the store. Rumours right now point to a huge party with Nintendo Executives in attendance. Perhaps the main floor of the store will be redecorated to feature the Wii like the Xbox Basement?
The Birmingham store told us that they had around 400 preorders, and believed they would be getting more consoles than this; so if you want to be to be a part of UK gaming history and pick up a Wii at the UK's official Wii launch party, be at Birmingham New Street at 11:59 on December 7th!
We’ve already got our invite sorted, and we’ll be there with still and video cameras to document the party.
Buzz words all round - Nintendo PR said it would be "exciting, and a fitting launch for the Wii" while a Gamestation spokesperson described it as "incredible."
Gamestation and Nintendo PR declined to give us any further information, but told us that there would be an official announcement this week. Rest assured, the second the press release drops in my inbox, details will be here on RPGSite. Stick with us.
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November 21st, 2006, 21:33 Posted By: wraggster
Looks like the game did not recover from its less-than-stellar showing at E3. With two of the three largest game reviewing outlets slapping the game silly in their reviews, are we to believe the game is that bad? What do you fine and intelligent readers who picked the game up already say?
Gamespot - 55%: "Red Steel isn't completely devoid of merit, but it's a half-baked, buggy game that feels rushed and poorly executed. There's a good concept in here somewhere, as a swords-and-guns shooter pitting you against yakuza villains certainly seems like it could be very exciting. However, the experience itself hardly fulfills any of the promises behind it. So if you're looking for an exciting new way to simulate gunning or cutting lots of dudes down using the Wii Remote, you'd best keep looking."
eToychest - 78%: "However, despite its faults, the long and short of it is that Red Steel is a fun first-person shooter, and hopefully a decent indicator of where developers will be able to take this genre on the Wii. The title controls extremely fluid, and is likely to draw praise from those PC gamers who up until now have been turned off by how the first-person shooter genre has been portrayed on the home console market. This is certainly one of the stronger titles for the Wii's retail debut, and while certainly not for everyone, is still a commendable example of the immersive experiences the Wii is capable of conveying."
1UP - 50%: "Don't be fooled into thinking Red Steel reinvents the FPS. It's nothing more than a ho-hum shooter with a creative but flawed gimmick stapled on. Sure, it might not steal the launch lineup, but at least it proves this type of game is welcome on the Wii."
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November 21st, 2006, 21:58 Posted By: wraggster
New release from Jamie Fuller
Delite is my first attempt at programming for the NDS, it uses the awesome PALIB
There are 99 levels in this game
The game is a remake of lights-out, a simple game where by you click the lights to extinguish them, however you control a when you toggle a light you also toggle the one above,below, to the right and left of the main one.
Sounds easy? give it a try!
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November 21st, 2006, 22:00 Posted By: wraggster
Bronto posted this news:
While hunting that nasty bug I mentioned, I rewrote large parts and dropped PAlib. However, it did not fix _the_ problem, but probably fixes some others .. and the .nds file is smaller. I also made some cosmetic changes to the ui. I'm still not too happy with the buttons, if anyone has some nice buttons, please let me know
I ordered no$gba-debug, hope this will help me finally fix _the_ problem.
More info --> http://blog.bronto-online.de/
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November 21st, 2006, 22:04 Posted By: wraggster
ttursas has again updated his homebrew game for the DS, heres whats new:
* Optimized collision checks.
* Added preliminary AI turrets. The AI is distributed evenly over the connected clients.
* Increased the default network send frameskip to 5.
* Client timeouts and exits are handled nicer now.
A short list, but the auto distributed AI load justifies a new release. Anyway, this is the one we'll be playing tomorrow at the Finnish IDGA pub night, and drinking all that free beer sponsored by Recoil Games! Yay!
Anyway, about the AI, if you are wondering, the calculations are distributed so that each connected client (player) will calculate roughly as much AI stuff as everybody else. If someone timeouts, no problem, the load is automatically redistributed. Works nicely on my two DS's... Let's see tomorrow how it'll work with more.
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November 21st, 2006, 22:11 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via gamespot
Retailer tells analysts both Sony and Nintendo have already delivered their second shipments of newly released consoles, talks tie ratios of both.
One of the biggest hitches with Microsoft's Xbox 360 launch last year was a dearth of follow-up shipments that left the game maker unable to make its next-gen system readily available to consumers until months after launch.
Sony and Nintendo might manage to avoid that problem, as GameStop today indicated that last weekend's launches of the PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii sold out, but more units are on the way. In an investor conference call tied to the retailer's third quarter earnings report, GameStop executives confirmed that that have already been resupplied with both systems, and they expect to get more of each on a weekly basis.
The executives also recapped the launch performances of the two systems. For the PS3, Sony's Resistance: Fall of Man and Electronic Arts' Madden NFL 07 were the biggest sellers, while Nintendo's The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess and Ubisoft's Red Steel stood out from the pack of Wii launch titles.
However, game sales were stronger on the Wii, with GameStop sporting a tie ratio of 3 games sold for every system, compared to the PS3's tie ratio of 1.5 games for each system. The shortfall on Sony's system was attributed to more people picking up the system on its own in order to turn around and sell it for a premium. As those systems find their ways into the hands of "real gamers," the execs said the PS3 tie ratio should increase.
GameStop's higher-ups noted that their chain historically has the highest tie ratio of any retailer in the country, but estimated that they were still shorted on hardware allocation by both Sony and Nintendo. While GameStop and its EB Games brand collectively account for about 25 percent of the US gaming market, the company believes it didn't receive that much of either system's day-one shipments. Executives said that they've never been satisfied with their launch day allocation of any new machine, but added their main concern now is the flow of follow-up shipments--which both Sony and Nintendo have promised will come at a steady pace.
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November 21st, 2006, 22:15 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via ign
WiiConnect 24 Update Breaking Systems?
Be careful what you wish for, you just might get a broken Wii.
We have received word from numerous sources that running the initial WiiConnect 24 update on the Wii has had a tendency to cause a recurring error code. Several error codes have been reported so far, but the most prevalent of them are 110213 and 32002. We contacted Nintendo about this issue, and they filled us in on what you should do if you find yourself in this predicament.
Currently, Nintendo has two options in place to resolve the problem. If you do not have any data saved to your system that is important to keep, then you can contact Nintendo customer service and they will ship a new console to you in 3-4 business days. However, if you do have important data saved to your system, then things get a little trickier. Data like game saves and Miis are not disastrous to lose, but Virtual Console data is. While Virtual Console games are re-downloadable should you delete them, the data saved on your console regarding which games you have downloaded is tied to your system. In this situation, option #2 is the way to go.
Option #2 requires that Nintendo send you a shipping label which should take 4-10 business days. Once you receive the shipping label, you can use it to send the console to Nintendo for repairs, after which they will send it back to you. Sadly, this process takes 8-12 business days, meaning that if you choose option #2, you will be Wii-less for a good long while.
Nintendo could not comment on how widespread this problem is, but did say that they are currently looking into fixes that can be done without Nintendo replacing or repairing the console itself.
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November 21st, 2006, 22:19 Posted By: wraggster
Via Primezone
Just in time to entertain holiday travelers, Delta Air Lines is partnering with Nintendo to provide customers with access to free video game demos for the Nintendo DS portable gaming system. Today, on-the-go Nintendo lovers can begin downloading the interactive demos -- including Brain Age, Elite Beat Agents, Clubhouse Games -- in Delta terminals at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
Through this new service, travelers can easily and wirelessly download Nintendo video game demos for free by bringing their Nintendo DS video game systems with them when they travel to or through Atlanta, standing within a few feet of the DS Download Station and following the simple download instructions. There are six units in the Atlanta airport on Concourses T, A and B. Delta also plans to provide this exciting enhancement in other airports in the coming months.
"Delta is excited to partner with Nintendo, makers of some of the most popular video games of all time, to provide yet another innovative entertainment offering to travelers," said Joan Vincenz, Delta's managing director of Product Marketing. "This program reflects our ongoing commitment to provide a distinctive, enjoyable travel experience -- both on the ground and in the air -- especially during the busy holiday travel season."
This airport technology addition is one of many changes Delta is making to improve the travel experience for customers. In September, Delta introduced the first of its new two-class, domestic transcontinental aircraft featuring all-leather seating in both first-class and coach. On these refurbished aircraft, every customer has a front row seat to great entertainment with Delta's state-of-the-art, digital in-flight entertainment -- boasting movies, live television, music and games -- available on demand at every seat. The airline's new standard in domestic transcontinental flying will be available to all passengers traveling on select Delta flights over four hours (or more than 1,750 miles), including those from Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport to cities including Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, Seattle and others, beginning this month.
Earlier this year, Delta also began updating its international BusinessElite class with a similar, industry-leading entertainment system on its current fleet of 75 aircraft flying international routes. And beginning in 2008, Delta will be the first U.S. airline to offer its international business class customers a true lie-flat seat in its BusinessElite(r) cabin on ultra long-haul flights to Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
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November 21st, 2006, 22:21 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via ign
We want 480p! The current word on where the elusive cables are available.
November 21, 2006 - Though Nintendo decided against jumping on the High-Definition bandwagon, the Wii isn't incapable of generating something better than archaic 480i resolution. By means of Component Video Cables, the Wii is able to output 480p—progressive rather than interlaced—which makes a surprising difference on any TV capable of accepting such a signal, like pretty much every HDTV and LCD on the market.
Somewhat frustratingly, Wii Component Video Cables are not easy to come by, especially in the midst of the post-launch frenzy. Nintendo's own online store has been the primary provider of the Wii Component Cables in the weeks before launch. Unfortuantely, the store seems unable to keep the cables in stock for more than a few hours at a time, and has been consistently sold out of the optional cables since a few days before the official Wii launch. The store currently lists the $29.95 cables as out-of-stock, but announces that more cables will be available in "the week of November 28."
Nintendo also expects first party Nintendo Wii Component Cables to arrive at retailers like Best Buy, GameStop, and Circuit City in early to mid December. For those unable to wait quite so long, we've got word that Wii Component Cables from third-party manufacturer React will be hitting shelves at Best Buy later this week. You may have to brave some Black Friday mobs to pick them up, so try not to become involved in any stampedes, assaults, or retail riots while you're there, as such behavior is simply not in keeping with the Tao of Wii.
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November 21st, 2006, 22:24 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via vggen
In its Q3 2006 earnings conference call today, GameStop revealed the early attach rates (number of software units sold per console) for both the Wii and PlayStation 3.
The PS3 was on the short end of the stick, with a measly 1.5 games per console sold, with the early winners being Resistance: Fall of Man and Madden NFL 07 (no surprises there). Meanwhile, the Wii enjoyed a much higher 3.0 attach rate, with the top sellers being Red Steel and The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.
While GameStop blamed the low PS3 attach rate on the high percentage of consoles being resold for a profit (primarily on eBay), no doubt the high price of the console itself also played a role. GameStop expects the PS3's attach rate to pick up once the console is in the hands of "real gamers."
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November 21st, 2006, 22:44 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via gamespot
Virtual Console gets updated with first games from NEC's legacy system; Bonk's Adventure and Bomberman '93 selling for 600 points each.
When Nintendo launched the Wii on Sunday, it did so with the promised dozen downloadable retro games available on the system's Virtual Console. But while the initial 12 offerings on the service included titles from the NES, the Super Nintendo, the Sega Genesis, and the Nintendo 64, the small slate of previously announced TurboGrafx-16 games was entirely absent.
Nintendo rectified that situation today, as the company has released a pair of TG-16 games on the Virtual Console. Gamers can now download Bonk's Adventure, the debut of the system's megacephalic mascot, and Hudson's Bomberman '93. Each game will set users back 600 Wii Points, or $6.
By the end of the year, Bonk and Bomberman will be joined on the Virtual Console by a handful of other TurboGrafx games, including Super Star Soldier, Victory Run, and Dungeon Explorer.
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November 21st, 2006, 23:35 Posted By: wraggster
Everyone's favourite disembodied head, torso and floating limbs, Rayman, is heading to the Wii. And, unless you've been living in a small hole in the ground with your hands over your ears and eyes closed tight, you've no doubt heard about Raving Rabbids.
After our extended play session over at Nintendo Australia, we can proudly chalk up a title that does justice to the Wii's unique control scheme and, moreover, does it with plenty of originality and style.
After the travesty that was our session with Red Steel, we were filled with feelings of trepidation rather than anticipation. Thankfully, our fears were allayed with one swift swipe of the wiimote and a quick jolt with the nunchuk. As slow and inaccurate as Red Steel's controls were, Rayman Raving Rabbids nailed everything it tried. The cursor, crosshairs or otherwise, never failed to move with accuracy and responsiveness. In short, it works and it works well.
Full article
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November 22nd, 2006, 00:51 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via ign
November 21, 2006 - It looks like Nintendo isn't immune to releasing dud consoles, as DailyGame's Wii broke already:
Now that the Wii's on store shelves, it wasn't long before the problems started. Although Nintendo's known for having great hardware, stories are already popping up over the 'net about failing consoles. While this is to be expected of any new hardware, and we have a feeling Nintendo's got a lot fewer bricks out there than the PS3 or Xbox 360 had, their support service might suggest otherwise.
Take one example of our own staff - after enjoying about four hours with the Wii yesterday, the unit suddenly just gave up the ghost. A loud buzz in the middle of a Madden tutorial, and crunch - one dead Wii. The unit wouldn't respond to any inputs on the controller or the box, and after unplugging/replugging it in, it would boot up, but not show any video. Moving it to other TV sets (three total, two HDef and one Standard) along with trying to reseat the cables, hold down the power with the cord unplugged (sometimes works with home electronics) etc etc - this was one dead Wii.
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November 22nd, 2006, 00:55 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via shacknews
Trauma Center: Second Opinion (Wii)
Developer: Atlus Co.; Publisher: Atlus USA
The characters and events depicted in this game are fictitious. Any similarities to organizations, people (living or dead), hospitals, or cutting-edge medical techniques are purely coincidental.
This is the disclaimer that prefaces Atlus' rage-inducing precision surgery sim, Trauma Center: Second Opinion. Given the increasingly bizarre medical situations that crop up throughout the game, as well as the anime-flavored hospital drama that unfolds, that warning very much goes without saying.
Second Opinion is a remake--and more--of Atlus' widely praised Trauma Center: Under the Knife, one of the games that really championed stylus control on the Nintendo DS. As in Under the Knife, Second Opinion puts you in the role of rookie doctor Derek Stiles, who must save the lives of patient after patient using an array of surgical tools. This time around, of course, you'll be operating with the Wii remote rather than the DS stylus. Like the original game, Second Opinion proves to be a worthy gameplay-centric title that exemplifies creative use of its system's controller. It also provides yet another counterpoint to skeptics' claims that Wii requires users to flail around wildly to progress in games. Quite the contrary; Second Opinion rewards--nay, requires--a steady hand to pull off its incisions, sutures, injections, and other surgical tasks. Like Under the Knife, Second Opinion is a hard game, and it becomes brutally difficult. Fortunately, Atlus has included three difficulty settings this time around, and you can switch between them before any mission.
One of the most significant additions to the game is the use of the nunchuk controller to select your implements. The eight available tools are displayed in a radial menu in the lower left corner of the screen, and you simply point the analog stick in the appropriate direction to select a tool, intead of than selecting each instrument manually with the pointer as in the DS game. This is a godsend when it comes to speed and efficiency, and as a side bonus it is a great boon to immersiveness. Using your left hand (or right hand, for the lefties) to grab your tools and the other hand to operate really brings to mind the classic O.R. scene with the doctor deadpanning the name of the tool he demands and holding out his left hand in anticipation. It's just a shame that there's no voiceover work saying "Scalpel!" when you grab the knife.
Second Opinion's presentation is very bare bones. The art design has been redone and made edgier from the DS release, but the story is still told in images and text, which some players may be inclined to simply skip. Hopefully, if Atlus continues the series on Wii, some more voice acting will be included, at least during key moments. As it is, though, it's hardly a deal-breaker; gameplay is where Trauma Center shines, and it holds up there.
Despite being a remake, there are some new elements thrown in, including a modified story and new character, and more crucially a whole new chapter and an added medical instrument. You now have access to a defibrillator during certain moments, which is perfect for a controller that consists of a separate component in each hand. As you would expect, you do indeed thrust the remote and nunchuk towards the screen to get that heart pumping. Still, gamers who have already played through the DS incarnation of the game will find that they recognize most of the missions. Much of the game, particularly early on, is taken directly from Under the Knife. Despite this, Second Opinion brings enough to the table that even fans of the first game should consider giving it a shot. To those who haven't played the original, this is an even more attractive entry in the Wii's launch lineup.
Red steel review
Red Steel (Wii)
Developer: Ubisoft Paris; Publisher: Ubisoft
Red Steel was the first full unveiled Wii game in the Western world--the second worldwide, counting Tecmo's Super Swing Golf--and it made big promises. The game plunges an American protagonist into modern day Japan, using firearms and blades as he gets further embroiled into the Yakuza underworld. A game full of gunplay and swordfighting is perfect for the Wii, as it is comprised of what are probably the two gameplay functions most likely to come to mind as appealing uses of the Wii remote. Unfortunately, Red Steel is very clearly unfinished. Whether this is the fault of the team, or a byproduct of trying to get what might have been an impressively ambitious game finished for launch, could be debated, but the game has many significant flaws.
Fundamental to the game are its control mechanisms. Aiming operates somewhere in between using a mouse and a console analog stick. The cursor, which is aimed with the remote, operates independently of the camera as it moves around the screen, but when it approaches the edge of a screen the camera turns in that direction. This seems to be the standard method of operation for Wii shooters, but unlike other genre entries such as Treyarch's Call of Duty 3 and Retro Studios' Metroid Prime 3: Corruption, Red Steel's "dead zone"--the area of the screen in which moving the cursor does not cause the camera to turn--is fairly large, making turning a somewhat sluggish affair. To the game's credit, this seems to have been factored into the level design. Red Steel is not a run and gun shooter; rather, battles are a series of set pieces that play out as you come to a new room or environment. This in itself is not a drawback, it is simply how the game is structured and it works fine.
What is a huge drawback is that the game's presentation is bland, bordering on just plain poor. Flaws abound, from clipping problems, to braindead NPCs, to uninspiring visual design (though in fairness this does improve later in the game), to a bizarre pointer glitch that will occasionally cause the cursor to skip across the screen and back again in a split second. This last issue, curiously enough, does not seem to be an issue with any other launch games using the system's pointer functionality, suggesting that fault lies with Red Steel itself.
Cutscenes are done in a comic book panel format similar to those of Max Payne. The style should work well, except that they have none of the dynamism and flow of Max Payne's. The game's dialogue and voice acting is not particularly great, which would not be much of a flaw if there were not so many other disappointing aspects of the presentation that are compounded. Ubisoft Paris, the studio behind the game, also developed 2003's cel-shaded shooter XIII, which suffered from many of the same problems. Like that game, Red Steel's environments are varied but not hugely impressive, and the gameplay is pretty standard. Red Steel very much feels like it could have used a good once over and another six months to a year of development. On the other hand, as in XIII, the music is very well done and has a broad range. Similarly, the sound design is quite good. Hearing reload sounds through the remote speaker is surprisingly enjoyable.
The game is not without gameplay highlights. Once you are entrenched in a safe position, aiming around the screen and nailing enemies is pretty enjoyable; it's just that when you have to do a quick 180 turn or some similar maneuver, the designers' choice to go with a large turning bounding box makes things frustrating. Swordfighting, which has taken a lot of flak from fans for not replicating users' movements on a 1:1 basis, is actually quite fun and were some of the parts of the game I looked forward to playing. The actual context for the swordfights is ludicrous; what man with absolutely no prior experience holding a katana is going to cast aside his perfectly functional firearm to engage in close combat with somebody who is clearly a master swordsman? It makes no sense, but setting that aside, the battles themselves can be a lot of fun. Quite frankly, I think the designers made the right choice in mapping your movements to numerous directional sword slashes. When it really comes down to it, when I playing the game and swinging the remote, I didn't notice or care about that; it was simply rewarding to see the on-screen sword accurately pick up the direction of my slashes and the blocking I was doing with the short sword in my left hand. The fighting system isn't the deepest in the world, but I found it surprisingly enjoyable for what it is.
All in all, Red Steel promises a lot and simply can't deliver on most of it. Despite Ubisoft's best intentions on having serious support for Wii right out of the gate, the realities of developing a launch title clearly took a heavy toll on the game. This kind of involved single-player experience really deserves more time, particularly when dealing with an entirely new control system. Ubisoft's own Rayman Raving Rabbids, from Michel Ancel's team at Ubisoft Montpellier, delivered a more successful (and more realistic from a development perspective) picture of delivering accessible creativity while still making launch. That said, Red Steel game does have some encouraging aspects. Ubisoft has stated that it plans to create a franchise out of Red Steel, and the game is likely to be the best selling initial Wii launch title after Zelda, so it would be no surprise if a sequel surfaced. If so, let's hope it gets the time it needs.
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November 22nd, 2006, 01:00 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via cubed3d
Someone has snapped a picture of the first UK Wii kiosk, appearing at a Virgin Megastore in Manchester. The look of the whole 'pod' design is very cool indeed and no doubt Nintendo will be placing more consoles in more and more stores over the coming weeks. This goes hand in hand with the Wii UK Tour which is continuing its winding path across the country.
Is there a Wii kiosk in your local town centre? Let us know what store you spied it in and if you can snap a picture and send it in to us. Stick with C3 for all your latest Wii goodness...
Screen via comment
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November 22nd, 2006, 01:53 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via kotaku
According to several tipsters, Best Buy has a policy to hold onto Wii when they hit the story so they can amass enough to advertise their existence in their weekly circular. They need to do this to meet the minimum in stock requirement.
Several Best Buy employees and friends of employees have emailed to tell us that the second Wii shipment has arrived, but you'll have to wait till Black Friday or this weekend for you chance at them.
What this particular tipster didn't get into was the store's policy on Playstation 3s which, again according to several tipsters, are in such short supply they will not be advertised. Instead the store is just going to plop them on the shelves as they arrive. So I'd get that dialing finger ready if you're interested in a PS3. If it's the Wii you're after, prepare for more line standing.
I'm not sure which method I prefer.
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November 22nd, 2006, 02:34 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via kotaku
Despite HDTV having such a low install base in North America, it seems that demand for hi-def component cables for the Nintendo Wii are in great demand. Who woulda thunk it? Certainly not Nintendo!
Priced online at the official Nintendo store for $29.95 (USD) and sold out within hours, two days before the launch, bids for the sold out cables are easily fetching over five times their original price. It's almost as if people really wanted them!
What a bizarre turn of events! Let's hope Nintendo can replenish supply online and in store before the holidays (or before I get my Sharp Aquos LCD delivered, whichever comes first)
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November 22nd, 2006, 02:59 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via globeandmail
Long the also-ran platform in the video-game wars, Nintendo's new Wii console is creating a whole new category of headache for the company: this time out they are too popular.
Nintendo Canada doesn't want to tell us how many Wii units are in the Canadian marketplace, and they can only tell us how many we can expect in the future in the most general terms, but they can say that they didn't anticipate the demand during Sunday's launch that saw a 100% sell out at the country's biggest retailers.
"We're struggling to try and find a solution to a situation in which demand has far outstripped supply," says Nintendo Canada marketing director Pierre-Paul Trepanier. "The expectation was that within a few days (after launch) Nintendo would still be stock everywhere."
What Nintendo can say is that beginning this Thursday and Friday (in most regions, but perhaps not the Maritimes and Eastern Quebec) the next shipment of Wii's should begin hitting stores. Its project the retailers will get up to 50% of the launch-day shipment, which if launch-day patterns repeat, could see most major retail locations with 25-40 in stores.
What happens next week, and the week after is in more doubt: Trepanier says that every region in North America has been clamouring for more equipment, and in the Atlanta region company officials were hit with an urgent plea for more nunchuk controllers. Trepanier claims the Canadian market is doing well keeping its accessories in stock.
But Trepanier says that while there have been no production issues in churning out enough Wii consoles for the target of 4 million units produced and sold globally by the end of 2006 (with perhaps a little more than one million of that available in the American market) the consumer interest seems to have reached far wider and deeper beyond hard-core gamers than Nintendo could have dreamed.
"We wanted that to happen eventually, but we haven't even kicked in our TV advertising yet," says Trepanier. "We purposely held back on TV advertising so that we wouldn't be advertising a product that you couldn't find in stores. We didn't expect groups like families and people who haven't played video games in a while to be suddenly be interested. The demand has been overwhelmingly positive, and it's been hard to deal with."
But with the crunch on to find your console some strange stories have begun circulating on the Internet and in conversation with retail workers at major electronics chains. One story involved a store putting more units on the floor Monday after selling out Sunday, then pulling those units from the shelves for some bewildering reason. Conspiracy theorists have suggested that Nintendo and retailers are creating an artificial shortage.
"I wasn't aware that there were any stocks being held back in retail," Trepanier says. "It's surprising though, I would expect them to want them to make sure all their consumers are happy ... I can assure you that at our warehouse in Vancouver, we have zero units."
Now the company has imposed austerity measures to make sure consumers get first crack at the systems.
Nintendo Canada has had to let its workers and marketing partners know that there will be no employee-plan or promotional units available to them until at least 2007, one memo suggested they go line up at the store like everyone else if they really needed it for Christmas.
As well, both Nintendo and third-party software for the new console has been doing well, with some Canadian retailers reporting that for every Wii sold a copy of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess went with it. Ubisoft's innovative first-person shooter Red Steel came in second place, and Call of Duty 3, Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz and Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 round out the top five.
And Trepanier says there has been some strong evidence that, unlike the PlayStation 3 experience, most of the Wii's bought go from the store to being played in living rooms, instead of flipped on eBay. Though no official numbers have been collected yet, Nintendo's Virtual Console (where players can download classic Nintendo and Sega games) has experienced far higher than expected traffic.
But as Trepanier says, this game is a marathon, not a sprint, and while encouraging so far, the first week isn't even over yet. The real test will be The NPD Group market data for December, which will be released in the second week of January 2007. Then Trepanier will know just how far down the track this opening week burst has taken Nintendo.
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November 22nd, 2006, 04:38 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via engadget
We're sure most of you Wii users are too busy Googling Zelda walkthroughs or chucking your Wiimote at the TV right now to give this hack much notice, but if you're the type that just has to know how something works and then destroy it utterly (you know who you are), then you might want to have a looksee at this one. Apparently some enterprising hax0rs tore apart their Wii sensor bar, only to find a couple of standard IR emitters. It turns out the "sensor" bar doesn't actually sense at all, it just sends out a pair of IR beams which can then be triangulated by the Wiimote. This of course opens up the possibility of DIY sensor bars and other related (performance enhancing?) hacks, but it still won't do much to help you through that extended "intro" phase in Twilight Princess, so sorry. Click on to view the vid of a custom-rigged sensor bar in action.
View clip via engadget
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November 22nd, 2006, 04:42 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via redherring
Buyers prefer less expensive, more readily available game console.
November 21, 2006
Sony’s PlayStation 3 may have had a two-day head start on eBay, but rival Nintendo’s Wii has quickly emerged as the game console of choice among shoppers on the popular Internet auction site.
eBay officials on Tuesday afternoon said shoppers had already bought more than 14,400 Wiis since the console was first put up for sale on Sunday. Wiis, which went on sale Sunday at U.S. retail stores for $249, have sold on eBay for an average price of nearly $430—a 72 percent markup.
Online demand for Sony’s PS3 appeared heavy in the early going. eBay shoppers snapped up more than 500 PlayStation 3 by Friday morning, only hours after they went on sale at U.S. retail stores, the company said. The auction site said average selling prices tipped the scales at a hefty $2,700—not a bad markup from the system’s $499 or $599 retail price. “This is pretty much par for the course,” eBay spokesman Hani Durzy said of demand (see Ready to Big Big at eBay for a Console?).
But as of Tuesday afternoon, eBay had count some 11,300 PS3 units sold, well behind rival Wii’s sales on the auction site. The PS3’s average price fell sharply from the early going to $1,460, although that remained a healthy 143 percent premium over its retail price.
Teardown
But Sony isn’t seeing a whole lot of holiday cheer. Despite the PS3’s high retail price, analysts believe Sony is losing hundreds of dollars on each console it sells. In a detailed analysis released on November 16, research firm iSuppli estimated the Japanese gaming giant loses has under-priced its PS3 by as much as $307 a unit. Dubbing the amount remarkable even for the video game business, iSuppli nonetheless described the console as a “great bargain” well worth its hefty retail price tag (see PS3 Loyalty, Guts Examined).
Wiis, on the other hand, are less sophisticated and more readily available than the PS3 or Xbox 360, making the system less expensive to manufacture. In fact, Nintendo appears to be making money on each system it sells. Without giving specifics, Nintendo of Canada exec Pierre-Paul Trepanier told gaming news web site GamesIndustry.biz that the company is “making money from day one on the Wii.”
Both the PS3 and the Wii, which are challenging Microsoft’s long-released Xbox 360 to become the dominant next-generation game console, were rushed out to the U.S. market to be available for the holiday season. But the two consoles are in short supply and retailers are selling out of the units as quickly as they receive them. Many of those lucky enough to snag a new PS3 or Wii are turning eBay, where the not-so-lucky are more than willing to pay steep markups. With both consoles trickling through U.S. retail channels, eBay’s secondary economy is likely to continue humming.
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November 22nd, 2006, 06:17 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via businessweek
The graphics leave something to be desired, but the motion-sensitive remote makes this next-gen game system a tough competitor
For a sense of how the underdog Nintendo Wii fares against Microsoft's Xbox 360 and Sony's PlayStation 3, this scene from my home one recent night says it all.
On a rainy Monday, three friends stopped over for drinks before we were supposed to head out for dinner. Nearly five hours later, at 12:30 in the morning, they were finally shoved out the door, exhausted from the workout they gave the Wii and wondering where they could go to grab one of their own. The whole time they were there, the PS3 and Xbox 360 sat forlorn and ignored.
The Wii has the stuff to replicate that scenario in homes far and wide. Despite graphics that are far inferior to those of competitors and a design that looks more like an external hard drive than a next-gen game system, the Wii is just plain fun to play.
Virtual Reality in Your Living Room
What makes it so outstanding? It boils down to Nintendo's (NTDOY) decision to focus on how games are played, rather than the glitz and glitter of the games themselves. The company's innovative motion-sensitive Wii Remote controller truly creates the closest thing you'll get on a home system to virtual reality. Always thought you could be the next Andy Roddick? Playing even the simplest game of tennis with the Wii controller and rudimentary Wii Sports game package might show you how wrong you were.
Nintendo set about making the gaming experience itself something even a grandmother might look forward to, and it does a great job right out of the box.
Setup was fairly simple and intuitive. From the start, you put the Wii on its stand, connect the sensor pickup to the unit, and figure out where to place it near your TV for best pickup of your movements with the remote. I was concerned the sensor, placed below a giant-screen Sharp Aquos HDTV set would not pick up the signal, but it worked just fine.
It's All About Mii
After adjusting the clock and other settings, I set up a wireless connection to my home network in just a few minutes, without incident. Once you're Web-connected, as with the PlayStation 3, the system immediately downloads a software update. The next step is gaining access to the too-cutely-named Mii Channel, where you create your own Mii-simplistic but fun digital avatars that represent you in the Wii Sports games that are included with the console. Other online menu features like news and weather were not yet active.
But as I hinted before, the Wii Remote is the true hero of the system, and makes all the console's other features, or lack thereof, seem almost inconsequential. Nintendo wisely continues to license the force feedback technology that produces satisfying tactile cues through the controller. The same goes for Microsoft's (MSFT) Xbox 360. Sony leaves that feature out of the PlayStation 3, a decision that may come back to haunt the manufacturer as game developers make the most of the feature in the other consoles. The remote also provides great audio, such as the whooshing sound when you swing it like a tennis racket.
The true value of the Wii is its ability to reconvey that sense of child-like wonder that has been lost over the years as games like Electronic Arts' (ERTS) Madden NFL and Activision's (ATVI) Tony Hawk become familiar even as they get more technically complex. Anyone familiar with Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz will recognize the challenge of rolling monkeys through maze-like levels, or fans of Zelda know well they have to solve a raft of challenges and puzzles to win the game. But when you're using this controller to stab and slash, bob and weave, you'll experience even the most familiar games in a whole new way.
The Good: Wii controller creates an entirely novel playing experience
The Bad: Online features not fully enabled; graphics don't match rival consoles
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November 22nd, 2006, 06:21 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via ign
We go Dexter on the Wii's main controller. Satisfy your morbrid curiosity and see it disemboweled within.
November 21, 2006 - It's an open secret that the Wii-remote was originally designed as a GameCube peripheral. Nintendo, however, pursuing the highly publicized 'Blue Ocean' corporate strategy, saw the opportunity to launch a console that would parallel the DS market plan in an entirely new market by means of a new console designed around the freedom provided by a motion-sensing remote controller. The Wii was the result, a console that will lean heavily upon the hypothetically genre-busting gaming innovations that will result due to the console's unique control scheme.
We know the Wii is powered by an IBM CPU and an ATI GPU, and we'd lobotomize one if we had the heart for it. Since we're sensitive peeps, we decided instead to cut straight to the real heart and sole of the Wii: the Wiimote.
Fully assembled, the Wiimote feels well balanced and rather comfortable in hand. It has a good weight, thanks primarily to the batteries, that feels neither too light nor too heavy. Once we broke open the case, however, we discovered quite a bit less circuitry than we had expected.
The Wiimote is held together by four screws, two of which are hidden under the battery compartment. The screws are a propriety three-bit Nintendo design. Actual maintenance kits with proper Nintendo screw-drivers are available through various sources online, however, none were available in time for this feature. Giving up on the potential for actually reassembling our sacrificial Wiimote, we applied a power drill with a 1/8-inch bit and drilled out the screws, which was actually pretty easy.
Once the securing screws were destroyed, the Wiimote came apart quite easily. The plastic buttons connected to the typical silicon membrane electrical connectors as with just about any other controller on the market.
The Wii circuit board looks sparse but actually does quite a lot. The largest chip on the board is the WiFi chip supplied by Broadcom. Motion-sensing wise; forget any imaginative images of a tiny gyroscope spinning inside a tiny box on the circuit board. The Wiimotes accelerometers are based upon miniscule, one-millionth of a gram flaps of silicon flexing against tiny springs within a charged field.
The main Wiimote's accelerometers are supplied by Analog Devices Inc., which declines to specify where on the Wiimote's board its chips reside. Many of the chips on the Wiimote are not labeled, at least not to the natural human eye, but we will speculate that the primary accelerometer chip is the small rectangular one located upon the top side (when held in hand) of the circuit board, in between the 'A' and +, -, and Home button receptors.
Had we not drilled out the screws, we believe we would have been able to reassemble the Wiimote relatively easily. The overall construction of the Wiimote is heavily built and outside of utter destruction via crushing, we expect that the Wiimotes will be able to withstand quite a lot of abuse in the wild. We've already had a wrist-strap-snapping incident that sent a Wiimote flying into a wall. The wall was the decided loser of that battle and suffered a nasty dent, whereas the Wiimote emerged entirely unscathed.
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November 22nd, 2006, 06:26 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via thewire
According to the latest issue of Nintendo Power magazine, Wii Play will arrive in the Americas during January 2007.
Wii Play features various mini-games such as ping pong, air hockey and billiards, among others. According to Keizo Ota of Nintendo's Entertainment Analysis and Development Division (EAD) in the Iwata Asks series of interviews, the team that created Wii Sports also produced family-friendly trial software, which eventually became this separate compilation upon Shigeru Miyamoto's suggestion.
Wii Play will release in all territories except the Americas on their respective Wii launch date. The title is expected to come packaged with a Wii Remote, though it's unknown at this time if that will apply to the American edition of Wii Play.
The Wiire will continue to keep you updated.
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November 22nd, 2006, 07:33 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via playfuls
I was going to begin this piece by wishing a late "Happy Birthday!" to Shigeru Miyamoto (who turned 54 last week on November 16), and by talking about how the Wii was originally intended to cost under $100 and stuff. But instead, I'm affraid that a more important message is in order: according to numerous reports received by IGN, there is a really nasty problem with some of the Wii consoles that ran the initial WiiConnect 24 update. And the problem is that, well, the update in question pretty much killed the affected Wiis!
There are two common error codes shown by the console in this case: 110213 and 32002. So should you encounter any such problem, you can either get a replacement Wii from Nintendo, or you can send them the faulty unit and receive it back in good shape along with your saved data - which is a pretty lenghty process. You can get more info on this matter (and on several others, unfortunately it seems there's more of them) by visiting Nintendo's customer service website.
And I'm affraid the bad news don't stop here. As you probably know by now, after the console's North American release, the Wii is still missing some of its most attractive online features: the Wii Opera browser, the Wii News Channel and the Wii Forecast Channel. Nintendo says that the Forecast Channel will be activated on December 20, the News Channel will start airing on January 27, and we may have to wait even longer for the Opera browser! More information about its availability should be revealed in the coming weeks, which doesn't sound too encouraging at all.
Despite all these problems, it looks like the Wii is doing great when it comes to pure gaming. A few days ago I wrote about the console's launch line-up and upcoming Wii games, but only briefly mentioned some classic titles downloadable via the Virtual Console. Well, the VC has been up and running even the day before the launch, so now users can buy Wii Points and download some of their old favorites. And here is the pricing for each game from the classic formats:
- NES games cost 500 Wii Points ($5)
- Super NES and Sega Genesis games cost 800 Wii Points ($8)
- Nintendo 64 games cost 1,000 Wii Points ($10)
- TurboGrafx-16 games will cost at least 600 Wii Points ($6)
Judging by the stats from GameRankings, the Wii games are doing a lot better than the PS3 games so far. The absolute best is, predictably enough, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess - with an average score of 96.5% (as opposed to PS3's top title, Resistance: Fall of Man, which only managed to score an average of 88.9%). So despite my earlier hunch that the Wii launch line-up was looking diluted, it actually turns out that the PlayStation 3 "scored" the most appalling games at launch.
In the end, neither Sony nor Nintendo can claim to have achieved a perfect launch. But despite my slight disappointment with the Wii's aforementioned problems, I'm still just as excited about getting one when it launches in Europe early next month. If all goes well for Nintendo from here on, they are hoping to sell 1 million Wii units in North America within the next two to three weeks, and another million by the second week of January. But even so, they are still expecting the console to sell out this Christmas, and supply issues are going to be inevitable in the first few weeks.
However, it's not the console itself that's having a hard time meeting the demand, and it's not the extra Wii remotes either: it's the Nunchuks! Apparently, Nintedo expected people to buy more Wiimotes, and they under-estimated the demand for extra Nunchuk controllers - which are rather hard to find for sale these days, it seems.
Or perhaps they had a good reason for supplying plenty more Wii remotes. Such as... domestic accidents, which are more likely to happen through the frantic use of a Wiimote. One such alleged accident involved a Wii Sports game of bowling, a pair of sweaty hands and a fragile Wiimote strap, and resulted in one cracked TV screen. Quite concerning! But while some brake their household items by mistake, others smash their Wii on purpose. Here, take a look for yourself. The horror... The horror...
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November 22nd, 2006, 07:36 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via digitaljournal
A rumor stemming from a quote: "We're not working on HD RIGHT NOW.." has sparked rumors that the Wii could be patched to HD.
We contacted a Nintendo rep to clarify, and while they said that Nintendo is absolutely not currently announcing any plans to upgrade the maximum resolution from 480p, it shouldn't be impossible in theory.
The rep noted that Microsoft was able to patch the Xbox 360 to support 1080p.
After all, continued the rep, Nintendo has already released a patch to allow Wii gamers to transfer game saves to SD cards.
This could be good news for Wii gamers looking for a sharper image on their HD sets. We'll keep you posted on any official announcements.
If the 360 can be patched to the 1080p why not the Wii above the 480? It seems like it is an actual possibility..without updating hardware! Cool for Wii owners.
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November 22nd, 2006, 16:31 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via eurogamer
Nintendo of America has moved quickly to sort out problems experienced by a handful of Wii owners whose consoles were "bricked" by a WiiConnect24 downloadable update.
The patch, of sorts, appears to have crippled a small number of consoles, and Nintendo's admitted that these will need to be replaced.
According to a report on IGN, the company has offered to replace consoles within 3-4 business days, although it will take slightly longer (4-10 days) to process consoles where customers want to retrieve stored data (for example, downloaded Virtual Console games).
Nintendo UK said that it expected the teething problems that have led to the problem to be resolved in time for the console's launch here on 8th December.
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November 22nd, 2006, 16:34 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via playfuls
Nintendo of America president, Reggie Fils-Aime, expects to sell 1 million Wii units to North American consumers by early December.
Speaking to Reuters, Fils-Aime revealed that Nintendo expects to sell 1 million Wii consoles within the next two to three weeks, and another 1 million by the second week of January. He also added that a life span of four to six years for the Wii would be "just about right."
"We designed [Wii] from the get-go to be profitable," said Fils-Aime, "so it will be past this weekend and throughout its entire life. Because we're a gaming company, we have to be profitable in the gaming business. It's not like our competitors who can make profit in operating systems or TVs to offset their losses on the gaming side."
Despite, Reggie Fils’ optimism, retailers and analysts across North America confirm that the hottest selling gaming console this past weekend was the Xbox 360.
In Canada Microsoft Game Studios was offering a three game deal with a system with a 20GB hard drive and an extra controller at one retailer for $449.99. One of the free games was Gears of War and when that sold out gamers could get the new Splinter Cell, Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter and Xbox Live Arcade: Unplugged.
Microsoft also dropped the price of several of their Xbox 360 games and peripherals to try and out-market Sony and Nintendo.
As a result gamers will be hard-pressed to find an Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 or a Nintendo Wii on store shelves at least for the rest of this week.
"Retailers had a great four-day run and pretty much everything is gone. Sony dropped the ball and Nintendo didn't do that much better," said one Great Canadian Superstore electronics store manager who wished to remain anonymous. .
"They over-promised and under delivered in terms of the quantity of Wii systems that were available. Sony on the other hand warned everyone that supplies would be severely limited. Microsoft was the big winner. They had lots of systems and they had them priced right with game bundles that gamers were interested in."
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November 22nd, 2006, 16:37 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via gamasutra
Although specific sale results from the U.S. are unlikely until the usual NPD monthly data next month, Nintendo Canada has revealed the top five selling Wii games in their own territory.
Unsurprisingly, the best selling game was The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, with some Canadian retailers reporting an almost 1:1 hardware to software sales ratio for the game. The second best selling game was Ubisoft’s exclusive title Red Steel and, in third place, Activision’s WWII shoot ‘em-up Call of Duty 3. Sega’s exclusive Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz was the fourth best selling and Bandai Namco’s PlayStation 2 port Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 2 was number five.
In an interview with Canadian website Globeandmail.com, Nintendo Canada market director Pierre-Paul Trepanier indicates that the country saw a 100 percent sell out of the console during it’s launch on November 19th. "We're struggling to try and find a solution to a situation in which demand has far outstripped supply," said Trepanier. "The expectation was that within a few days Nintendo would still be stock everywhere."
According to Trepanier, every region in North America has been demanding more hardware, with additional nunchuck controllers apparently in particularly short demand in the Atlanta region. "We wanted that to happen eventually, but we haven't even kicked in our TV advertising yet," said Trepanier. "We purposely held back on TV advertising so that we wouldn't be advertising a product that you couldn't find in stores.”
Although no figures were given, Trepanier also described interest in the Wii’s virtual console as generating “higher than expected traffic". The retro download service saw two TurboGrafx-16/PC Engine titles – Bomberman 93 and Bonk’s Adventure - added to its roster today, after the format went unrepresented in the launch weekend line-up.
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November 22nd, 2006, 16:40 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via crunch gear
As many concepts appear. This is no different. Its a concept of a sword and shield attachment for the nintendo Wii. It would really give a in-game feel to Zelda Twilight princess.
screen via comment
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November 22nd, 2006, 17:15 Posted By: Darksaviour69
BrandIntel, a leader in consumer and market intelligence solutions, today released a new tracking study on the top video gaming consoles, including Sony PlayStation®3 (PS3), Nintendo® Wii and Microsoft® Xbox 360 (X360). The BrandIntel report, titled "Top Gaming Consoles Report," found Nintendo Wii ranks first heading into the holiday season due to its intuitive controller and lower cost. With Wii and PS3 now released, BrandIntel will provide weekly online updates throughout the holiday season to track how sentiment and discussion share may shift as consumers begin using the consoles. Today's report follows BrandIntel's recently announced "Top 50 Games Report," in which the company tracked and analyzed the top new games for PS3, Nintendo Wii and X360.
Based on analysis of original consumer-generated content, the "Top Gaming Consoles Report" captures data from January 1, 2006 to November 12, 2006. Additional key findings from the study include:
-- In general, consumers are complaining about the PS3's price, raving
about the Wii's controller and satisfied with the X360's first year on the
market.
-- Gamers are also heavily anticipating popular Nintendo franchise games
such as "The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess," as well as newer titles
such as "Red Steel."
-- The X360 is generating the least amount of discussion but benefits
from a year head start and established consumer base that discusses the
console in a positive manner. Because of this, it currently ranks second
among next-gen consoles for the holiday season.
-- The PS3 currently ranks the lowest according to consumer discussion.
While the PS3 has generated the most discussion overall, it has primarily
been negative concerning price and value. However, purchase intent has
recently trended upward showing marketing campaigns have begun to persuade
consumers who are skeptical of the PS3's price/value.
brandintel
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November 22nd, 2006, 17:48 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via ars
One of the Imperial Wii units has been stuck with a nasty problem. Seems that although we could connect using WiFi to Nintendo and grab system updates, we could not connect to the Wii store in order to view the EULA that's necessary before buying virtual console games. Every time we tried, we received error 220602.
When we called Nintendo, they had no idea what the problem was all about. The suggested the following, which you should try, too: a) changing your WiFi router to channel 1 or 11, and b) moving your Wii closer to the router. For many people, this is a solution. For us, it wasn't.
It looks like Nintendo may not be at fault for this error, as some snooping about led us to realize that the real issue was a crappy DNS server. It seems as though the various hostnames Nintendo is using haven't fully propagated throughout the 'net, even several days after launch. After talking with some support specialists, it looks like this DNS problem is affecting pockets of users here and there.
In Wii Settings you can adjust your Internet connection and manually specify a new DNS server, if you wish. We took a different route, and changed the DNS servers on our WiFi router. From what we can tell, the Wii will use whatever is set as your Primary DNS, or DNS 1. It was enough for us to swap our primary and secondary DNS. You may have to set out in search of another DNS server to use, at least temporarily, until the DNS propagation is complete (surely by the end of this week).
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November 22nd, 2006, 19:37 Posted By: wraggster
Of the nine mini-games in the Wii Play package, the Tank game is the one we liked the most, as you will know if you read our hands-on feature, and here are the first screens of it.
Best enjoyed in two-player, each person moves their tank around with the analogue stick on the Nunchuk, while pointing the Remote anywhere on screen and pulling the B trigger to fire. The aim is to kill all CPU-controlled tanks in the single-screen arena before advancing to the next stage where faster, deadlier tanks await.
The player who kills the most CPU wins, so it's also a good idea to kill the other player so they don't get any points for that round. With bouncy bullets and simple arenas, Wii Play Tanks is awesome fun and reminds us of the legendary Combat on the Atari 2600.
Yes, we're THAT old.
For £35, Wii Play comes with a £30 Wii Remote. Do the math - the Tanks and Billiards games alone are well worth paying a fiver for.
First tank screens are below, along with a bunch selection of other mini games and the Wii Remote bundle pack.
News and 38 screens at CVG
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November 22nd, 2006, 20:13 Posted By: wraggster
The Zelda Sword! Yep, we knew a Zelda-related gift from Nintendo was to pop into Animal Crossing on DS around the time of the Wii launch and touchdown of Twilight Princess on Wii in the US, but now the curtain's been fully drawn back. Or, if you like, the secret revealed, the veil ripped down.
Whether or not Nintendo plans to 'post' UK Animal Crossing fans a similar present for Wii launch on these shores is still unclear, but with December 8 quickly approaching we've not long to wait to find out.
Screen Via Comments
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November 22nd, 2006, 20:13 Posted By: wraggster
The Zelda Sword! Yep, we knew a Zelda-related gift from Nintendo was to pop into Animal Crossing on DS around the time of the Wii launch and touchdown of Twilight Princess on Wii in the US, but now the curtain's been fully drawn back. Or, if you like, the secret revealed, the veil ripped down.
Whether or not Nintendo plans to 'post' UK Animal Crossing fans a similar present for Wii launch on these shores is still unclear, but with December 8 quickly approaching we've not long to wait to find out.
Screen Via Comments
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November 22nd, 2006, 20:45 Posted By: wraggster
Via Kotaku
At first I was sure the Wiimote ran purely on fairy dust and children's dreams, but apparently I was wrong. Someone has posted a YouTube video showing how to replace your sensor bar with TV remotes.
More Info -->
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November 22nd, 2006, 20:47 Posted By: wraggster
Via kotaku
Backwards compatibility is a tricky thing. Seems so simple: Make the new machine so it can play old games. But, alas, difficult. According to one reader, the Nintendo Wii joins the ranks of the Xbox 360 and the PS3 as yet another console that can't quite get its BC on.
Kotakuite Chris writes:
I popped Mario Golf: Toadstool Tour into my Wii. It started loading my saved data off the memory card, but stopped in the middle of it, and displayed this message: "An error has occured. Please turn the power off and refer to the Nintendo GameCube instruction booklet for more information."
I tried switching memory cards, and got the same message. I tried having no memory card inserted, and after selecting to continue without saving, got the same message. I plugged my GameCube back in, and tried the same thing with the same disc, and it all worked perfectly fine.
Chris says GC titles Smash Bros. and Viewtiful Joe come up kosher on the Wii. Anyone else having BC issues or just this dude?
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November 22nd, 2006, 20:53 Posted By: wraggster
Yeah, we've covered some Wii mishaps and misadventures before, but they're just not that exciting until people start losing blood.
This guy either has a long arm, a low roof or an unnerving tendency to flail his arms about like a madman, because he's done himself and his light fitting a great deal of damage.
Now that we've got a taste for blood, we await, breathlessly, the news of the first Wii-induced bone fracture or organ rupture
Screen Via Comments
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November 22nd, 2006, 21:05 Posted By: wraggster
Via joystiq
An analysis of eBay auctions from the last week shows that the average selling prices for the Wii and PS3 have fallen precipitously from highs reached late last week, though the systems still auction for significantly more than their retail prices. At the same time, supplies of the systems on the popular auction site have skyrocketed since launch, with thousands of auctions closing for each system every day.
Average auction prices for both systems reached a high last Friday, with the Wii going for an average of over $580 (roughly 233 percent of retail) and the PS3 averaging nearly $2,400 sale prices (an astounding 397 percent of the retail price). Since then, prices have come down to more reasonable but still inflated levels, with Tuesday's Wii auctions ending at an average of just over $400 and PS3 auctions averaging just under $1,200.
Unsurprisingly, the number of completed auctions for each system peaked on the day after launch, with campers trying to turn their systems around for a quick profit in one day auctions. Over 6,000 PS3 auctions finished on the 18th and over 7,000 Wii auctions were completed on the 20th. PS3 auctions have slightly outpaced Wii auctions thus far, with nearly 15,000 Sony systems auctioned in the past week compared to just under 14,000 Wiis.
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November 22nd, 2006, 21:10 Posted By: wraggster
Following a recent post of a television becoming collateral damage in the console wars, we have received similar reports. Now is a good time to go over some basic Wii-mote concepts:
Please make sure to always use the provided strap and adjust it to the size of your wrist.
If your hands get profusely sweaty so to potentially cause slippage, there are non-surgical options available -- such as powder -- to keep your hands dry.
The Wii-mote only requires semi-subtle movements to operate properly. Full-motion movement can only increase the probability of an incident.
Don't Wii angry and don't Wii drunk! Every snapping incident we've heard of so far has been caused by loss of grip and unnecessary force.
We hope these tips help save just one television or prevent a grandma's ashes from being knocked off the mantle place. Please Wii responsibly.
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November 22nd, 2006, 21:28 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via punchjump
Component cables for Nintendo Co.'s Wii video game system are now backordered at the company’s official online store until Dec. 18.
The ShopNintendo store disclaims to customers that due to high demand, initial allotment of the Wii Component Video Cables has been depleted.
The $30 cables are said to be available at select retailers, including Best Buy, Circuit City, and GameStop in mid-Dec.
Component cables will allow Wii owners to view games in 480p resolution, a sharper resolution that offers better picture clarity of standard and high-definition TV sets.
Third-party component cables were listed at brick and mortar retail stores but were not received by launch on Nov. 19.
Ebay prices have soared for the sought after product, with auctions fetching as much as $200 a piece.
Nintendo expects to ship 4 million Wii units worldwide by year-end.
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November 22nd, 2006, 21:53 Posted By: wraggster
New from SuccessHK
In the grand racing tradition of Excitebike, get ready for a big-air experience like no other! Players rocket their trucks across dynamically changing terrain in this nitrous-injected, high-flying racer for speed junkies. Showing the Wii Remote controller's versatility, players tilt the controller on its side to turn it into a wireless steering wheel!
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November 22nd, 2006, 22:07 Posted By: wraggster
All the main sites are posting that Component Cables for the Wii are priced at $30 well i posted a few weeks back but ill repeat tonight that SuccessHK are selling on preorder a Component Cable for the price of USD 6.71 from Blaze, heres more info:
Product Features of Nintendo Wii Wii Component Cable
High quality cable included
High definition games
Resolution Upgrade
Multiple HD modes: 480p, 576p, 720p, 1080i
Superior picture quality
More Description of Nintendo Wii Wii Component Cable
Play Wii games in High Definition on your HDTV.
High resolution graphics
Ideal for HDTV
Stereo sound
Much Better than $30 eh - the cable ships on the 30th of November.
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November 22nd, 2006, 22:34 Posted By: wraggster
via wiregamers
Rumor is that with the DVD version of the Wii comes an HDTV compatible system. We also have hints that Nintendo could supply both in a nice little firmware update.
In a recent interview with USA Today Reggie hints at HD
“Tough choices about not including a DVD player at the start, tough choices about not including high-definition capability at the start. That’s because we wanted a mass-market price, and we believe the market will validate those decisions come launch day on this Sunday.”
So if we are to fill in the blanks, not including a DVD player at the start = 2007, then not including High-Definition capability = Sooner or later an update.
Game Informer got in touch with Nintendo PR which replied explaining that if Microsoft could enable 1080P with a firmware update, then Nintendo might be able to do the same thing. Nintendo proved it could update firmware this weekend when each system sold at launch had to update its firmware to enable SD card management.
So I got to thinking why would Nintendo launch a new Premium version of the Wii? Answer is they won't they will use the same version but with two big differences DVD playing and HD capabilities then just charge more for it. Makes sense right?
Well if they could do that why wouldn't they sell it through it's own online Wii store? They could sell the DVD player update for around 20 dollars and it'll get bought. But where to set the price for HD capability. My guess is around 50 dollars that way it will be about the same price as the Xbox 360 and in essence have the same features.
*Please take everything mentioned here with a grain of salt since much of this is speculation upon little known details.
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November 22nd, 2006, 22:43 Posted By: wraggster
The Wii is an excellent device for Bluetooth infact anyone with a Bluetooth phone should be weary just in case a photo they dont want others to see ends up being grabbed by the Wii:
From Nintendo Forums
It said that there were 12 pictures available. So, I was like "what's going on here" and viewed them. It turned out to be pictures from my brother's phone. I was thinking "Wow, cool" but my other brother immediately turned off his bluetooth on his phone. So, in conclusion, apparently the Wii just eats up photos from any device around it that has bluetooth. I don't know if this is known already or not, but in case it isn't, I'm telling you now. I should note that I had to have an SD card in to receive the pictures.
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November 22nd, 2006, 22:54 Posted By: wraggster
New release from Lick of his app that lets you change brightness levels etc, heres the full details:
What's new: FIXED Supercard Lite support. (See libcartreset 0.72)
REMOVED the annoying purposeless green flash when resetting. (The red one is still in there.)
Download and Give Feedback Via Comments
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November 22nd, 2006, 22:58 Posted By: wraggster
New release from Superpanic:
Hi all. Here is my first game "WordUp!", a word puzzle.
DESCRIPTION
Use the stylus to connect chars into words (english). A word must be three character or longer. Words can go horisontal, vertical and diagonal as well as forwards and backwards.
If you successfully connect a word the selected blocks dissapear. If a column of blocks fill up the screen, the game is over.
The game contains two game modes, "WordUp!" which is open ended, and "Arcade", with level progression.
MISSING FEATURES
The game features some sound effects, but music is missing.
"Options" under the menu does not work yet.
No pause function implemented, but you can pause the game by closing the lid.
No filesystem for saving hiscores are implemented. So hiscores are reset on reboot.
Otherwise, it's not far from complete, I hope.
The game works on emu, but contains some alpha and scaling effects. Also it feels a lot better to play on hardware due to the stylus controls.
All feedback (positive/negative) is more than welcome!
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November 23rd, 2006, 05:12 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via kotaku
Kotaku reader and avid gamer Samuel Kahn contacted me last week to find out who he should contact at Nintendo about a problem he was having with the Wii.
The problem is he has Muscular Dystrophy and because of it has a limited range of motion. Unfortunately, this means he's been having some major problems with some Wii games.
He still loves the system, but he wants to make sure developers and Nintendo keep in mind not everyone can swing their arms around like a spider monkey on meth when they game and to perhaps include some sensitivity options in game settings.
Hit the jump for his full, open letter to Nintendo.
Open letter to Nintendo:
To whom it may concern,
The first thing I should mention is that I'm an avid gamer and a huge Nintendo fan. I've owned nearly every Nintendo console, so as you could probably imagine, I eagerly anticipated the release of the Wii, both as the next Nintendo console and for what it signifies in terms of a revolution in the way we play and perceive games.
As the console neared its release, I began having certain fears about it.
I'm disabled; I have Muscular Dystrophy, a genetic neuromuscular disease that makes me weak and limits the range of motion of my joints, which becomes increasingly limited slowly over time. I began fearing that the Wiimote was something I may not be able to use effectively due to my limited range of motion. I hadn't seen anything published regarding the adjustment of control sensitivity for the Wii and its games.
After buying a Wii on launch day, I discovered my fears were partially justified. I can't really play some of the games in Wii Sports, because of the broad physical movement required. Bowling is the most glaring example of this. I can however play games with more subtle movement controls such as Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. This leads me to believe that more options related to the adjustment of movement control sensitivity could have been included in games like Wii Sports, as would fit the precision that the Wiimote seems capable of providing.
Games are something I'm very passionate about; they are an arena in which I can compete on even ground with others despite my disability. It's very frustrating to have home video games, which have always been open and very liberating for me, become limiting. So, my goal in writing this letter is to voice my concerns to Nintendo and other developers, so they could address my concerns and perhaps take them into consideration when developing games for the Wii. I'm certain that I'm not the only disabled gamer with these issues.
Sincerely,
Samuel Kahn
you have to feel for the guy
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November 23rd, 2006, 05:19 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via kotaku
If you're one of those anal types who likes to see their gaming library in a nice, organized display, things like storing Wii Sports in its cardboard case really sticks in your craw. Fortunately for you and your craw, the Cover Project has you... uh, covered. Contributor "megashock5" has created a custom art file (about 3.5 MB) for you to print out and shove into the nearest white DVD case, thus silencing the constant nag of your OCD.
If you don't have a white DVD case, take 4ColorRebellion's suggestion. Either spend the penny on a Wii preview DVD from Target or drop a buck-fifty on one from the official Nintendo Store. Classy!
screen via comment
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November 23rd, 2006, 05:23 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via gamesarefun
we've got a first look at Electronic Arts' Wii version of The Sims. It's being made by the Japanese devs responsible for the DS version of Sim City 3000 (which is due out in February in Japan). It seems they're going for an Animal Crossing meets Harvest Moon look.
This is honestly the first news about the game since it was revealed that it was being made. It's definitely part of the official Sims franchise, but EA hasn't yet revealed any info about the game, so we don't know whether we can expect the traditional Sims gameplay or whether things will be changed for this Wii version.
screen via comment
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November 23rd, 2006, 05:27 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via khqa
Kids need about an hour of physical activity a day to stay healthy.
But can the Wii game system do that?
"You can't do this laying back on the couch and snacking," Quincy Gamestop manager Rob Shipman said.
The way you move your arms is the way your characters move in the game.
"I believe it's a good start. Anything that gets kids off the couch and up and moving is a start to getting them more active," Personal Trainer Dee St. Clair said.
If a gamer is driving, he has to move the controller like a steering wheel.
Sports games require much more movement like throwing a football or swinging a racket.
"That could get kids interested in playing sports and that's great," St. Clair said.
When it comes to exercise, games can be fun, but there's nothing like the real thing.
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November 23rd, 2006, 05:31 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via vooks
Nintendo are famous for having lots of hidden features in games and in OS and consoles. The Nintendo DS makes a different noise on your birthday, if you hold down Z when you boot your GameCube is makes a child like squeak.
Now with the great interface that is Wii Channels a post from the IGN boards has compiled all the quirks and Easter eggs from the Wii Channels as well as a few from Wii Sports. Of course if you’re the adventurous type and want to find out most of these yourself then maybe give it a miss.
• In the Photo Channel, you can catch the evil cat that runs across the screen to get tips! It appears in the Fun option, and you can grab the cat with the A and B button.
• You can have a 194 piece puzzle by holding down the 1 button before selecting any piece amount.
• If you don’t have an SD card and still want to check out Photo Channel, you can e-mail a Jpg to your Wii Message Board. There is a size limit for any mail you send to it - possibly 1mb.
• In Bowling, you can throw your ball into other people’s lanes.
• If you put mp3s in your SD card along with your photos, you can change the background music during a slide show to one of your mp3s.
• When the message board records your play time, if you don’t exit to the Wii Menu before you power off the machine, it records the play time as “other”. If you properly exit to the menu and then shut off it will record it as the correct game.
• You can rearrange almost anything on the Wii…like the channels and messages by just holding the A and B
• The plasma burn in reduction kicks in the second the Wiimote shuts down.
• When you get an e-mail, not only does the disc drive light up and pulsate blue, but your Wiimote sends out a little chirp
• when you’re in the Mii channel and you don’t use the Wiimote for a little bit and your Mii’s start walking around, if you then suddenly use the Wiimote, all the Mii stop and follow the ‘hand’ for about 3 seconds….
• When typing messages, and you need to go back and edit the message(while still typing) instead of deleting letters, just point to where you want to edit to move the type cursor.
• In Wii Sports Bowling, when you press up on the Directional Pad, it will zoom in on the lane. The zoom in sound is the exact same sound from Super Mario 64 any time you moved the camera.
• Co Op Jigsaw puzzles in Wii photos
• You can place the sensor bar upside down and it doesn’t reverse the directions of your movements…
• In Wii sports bowling, you can release on the back swing and throw the ball backwards. It scares all the Mii’s behind you.
• Classic controller has analogue shoulder buttons. With the GC “click” at the bottom.
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November 23rd, 2006, 06:24 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via n-philes
Most importantly, still free until mid June 2007.
In the January issue of Nintendo Power, Nintendo confirms that the Opera Web Browser will be available for download free until mid June 2007. This was said when the browser was first announced, but later denied. Hopefully this time the news is final.
A release date is not yet known, but it is known the browser will be distributed through the Wii Shop channel.
Source: Nintendo Power January 2007 issue
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November 23rd, 2006, 07:32 Posted By: gunntims0103
new hack and video via abeisgreat
This is a video about how to transfer a save from any wii console to your own. This will open up possibilitys of large save dumps and maybe in the future some form of wii homebrew. This is a really simple process you only need a Wii, an Sd, and a Pc with a sd reader/writer.
video via
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November 23rd, 2006, 09:03 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via inquierer
Next year, according to rumours
NINTENDO HAS plans to release a new version of the Wii next year that will ship with a HD DVD player, according to industry rumours.
Gameinformer.com quotes Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime as saying that Nintendo decided not to ship with high-definition capability when it launched on Sunday because it wanted to keep the cost down.
However, his words indicate that it may have plans to release one in the future. Later next year Nintendo has plans to release a new version of the Wii and Gameinformer is speculating that this will be when the outfit will stick on the new drive.
A spokesNintendo said that the outfit was "absolutely not currently announcing any plans to upgrade the maximum resolution from 480p". But then again everyone knews that.
However, the spokesNintendo admitted it shouldn't be impossible in theory. In fact, said the spokesman, Microsoft was able to patch the Xbox 360 to support 1080p and Nintendo has already released a patch to allow Wii gamers to transfer game saves to SD cards.
So it could be true.
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November 23rd, 2006, 12:34 Posted By: Darksaviour69
Firm also predicts console shortages will boost 360 sales
Nintendo is expected to deliver between 150,000 and 200,000 Wii units to North America every week until the end of 2006, according to the latest report by Lazard Capital Markets.
All the major new hardware manufacturers should benefit from impressive sales where units area available according to Lazard's Colin Sebastian, who noted: "Our retail checks and comments from specialist retailer GameStop indicate that there is strong demand for PS3 and Wii ahead of meaningful replenishments, while the Xbox 360 appears to be benefiting from new console shortages and the release of new title Gears of War."
Sebastian also expects the sale of PlayStation 3 software to improve by the year end, stating: "We note that the initial PS3 tie-in ratio is a little light of expectations, however, we expect follow-up game sales and holiday gifts to provide a boost by the end of the year."
For some industry watchers it might be stating the obvious, but ahead of the Thanks Giving weekend in the US, the firm also predicts strong sales for software including, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Resistance: Fall of Man, Guitar Hero 2, Call of Duty 3, WWE Smackdown, Need for Speed Carbon and Final Fantasy XII.
More interesting is the estimation that between 10 and 15 per cent of all PS3 purchases may have been bought with the intention of being resold by profit-minded consumers.
"We estimate that approximately 20,000 PS3s have sold on eBay since pre-orders for the console began last month, with an average auction price of approximately US $1500," said Sebastian.
gameindustry.biz
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November 23rd, 2006, 17:32 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via playfuls
Do you know what the first condition of a perfect console launch is? Releasing enough units so that everyone can get one! Well, if not everyone, at least as many as possible.
Of the three competitors on the console market, Nintendo seems to be the only one to have understood this necessity. Sony would have certainly liked to have millions of consoles available for sale, but problems determined by the incorporation of the BluRay unit didn’t allow the Japanese company such a luxurious release of its product.
Microsoft released Xbox 360 a year ago, however, as it didn’t respect this condition, the unit was sold out shortly after its launch. Lucky for the Redmond company that they had a whole year at their disposal in order to solve this problem – now they can be proud of having sold 7 million consoles. Microsoft hopes to celebrate having delivered 10 million units to consumers by March 2007.
Nintendo Wii, deemed a bona fide outsider at the beginning of the console war, has already sold 700,000 models if we are to believe what the site monitoring console sales is saying.
In less than a week, Nintendo will launch another 400,000 consoles in Japan and another number of consoles in Europe, undisclosed for now, in an attempt to reach its goal of selling 4 million units by the end of the year.
Sony is in the paradoxical situation of being defeated by a console greatly inferior to PS 3 technically. PlayStation 3 is undoubtedly a must have for any self-respecting gamer, but Nintendo Wii does hold one advantage: it will be available for purchase in stores. Sony has sold out its few hundred thousand PS3s at launch and it is unclear when the next units will hit the market.
As the holiday season is only days away, it’s hard to imagine that Sony will miraculously come forward with another couple of hundred thousand consoles, conjured out of thin air.
Surprising as it may be, the war of the consoles is not being fought over technical specs, as we’d expect it to be, but over availability. Whoever produces more units faster will win, and from this perspective, Nintendo is carefree.
Compared to Wii, Xbox 360 is no happier case. The console has already turned 1 year old and Microsoft will have to initiate a publicity campaign or price reductions in order to stimulate sales growth.
In case you’ve missed the most recent episodes of “Attack of the Next-Generation Consoles: Sony and Nintendo Counter-Attack”, don’t be mistaken into thinking Nintendo Wii will sell just because there’s so much more of it than of its rivals on the market.
While Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 were competing in categories such as “who can stuff more memory and processors per square centimeter”, Nintendo bet on the human factor and instead of concentrating on graphics and processor power, it reinvented the magic wand, creating a wireless controller which allows gamers to make any kind of movements they desire while playing.
Is Nintendo the winner of the console war? It’s still too soon to draw a conclusion, one way or another, especially since Sony will fight mightily to regain its footing. Wii certainly is this season’s revelation.
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November 23rd, 2006, 17:36 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via reuters
The rush to get hold of Nintendo's new Wii video game console is being fueled by demand for another attraction -- the new game in Nintendo's legend of Zelda series -- but game critics were uncertain this level of interest would continue.
Nintendo turned to one of its most popular franchises to make sure its Wii console got off on a good start in the three-way race for sales this holiday, against Microsoft's Xbox360 and Sony Corp.'s Playstation 3.
For almost 20 years the Legend of Zelda has been one of the top properties in the video game industry, selling more than 47 million copies, so Nintendo ensured "The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess" came in tandem with the launch of Wii.
The new game makes use of the new controls of Wii such as its motion-sensitive controller, with players swinging the remote to make sword attacks, pointing it to fire arrows, and even simulating reeling motions in fishing challenges.
"Nintendo has an opportunity to reclaim the market share lead (with the Wii)," said Jamil Moledina, executive director of the Game Developers Conference.
Nintendo has some ground to make up. Its GameCube held just 14 percent of the global video game market compared to Sony's Playstation 2 winning a 70 percent share and Microsoft Xbox's 16 percent, according to DFC Intelligence.
The new Zelda game has received rave reviews since its release with some critics calling it one of the best Zelda titles yet. According to Gamerankings.com, the title has an average rating of 97 percent among critics.
"It took Nintendo almost a decade to do it, but the publisher has finally created a new Zelda game that is so epic that it deserves to be crowned the best in its class," raved game critic Matt Casamassina on IGN.com.
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November 23rd, 2006, 17:39 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via pro-g
New information coming from analysts puts the Wii launch availability far ahead of the PS3.
Sony had intended to launch the PS3 with launch stock in the region of 400,000 units. However, in the run-up to the launch this figure began to come down to around 200,000 units. According to analyst PJ McNealy of American Technology Research the actual launch figures of the PlayStation 3 are likely to be even lower than 200,000 at between 125k and 175k.
The Wii launch was much closer to expectations with McNealy indicating that launch stock was in the region of 425k to 475k.
"This number is in-line with our expectations, and bodes well for consumers looking for a Wii this holiday season. Our research indicates that Nintendo will likely ship at least 1.5MM to 2.0MM units to North America this calendar year, which indicates that availability of the Wii both at retail and via online stores should provide buying opportunities," said McNealy.
Lazard Capital Markets analyst Colin Sebastian has also commented on the two new platforms. Sebastian expects Nintendo to ship a further 150,000-200,000 Wii consoles to North America each week in 2006, bringing 2006 shipments of the console roughly inline with pre-launch estimates.
The PS3 does not look to be fairing as well, with Sebastian estimating that the console will only ship in the region of 750,000 units, some 250,000 units shy of Sony's one million target.
Another concern for the PS3 is a relatively low software tie ratio of approximately 1.5 games per console. This falls short of the Xbox 360 tie ratio which has maintained roughly 4 games sold per console. This low figure hasn't been helped by the large percentage of early buyers who bought a PS3 to sell on eBay.
"Based on our analysis of auction listings," notes Sebastian, "we estimate that approximately 20,000 PS3s have sold on eBay since pre-orders for the console began last month, with an average auction price of approximately $1,500 (a 150% premium over the retail price)."
Whatever happens, expect some impressive spin to come from each camp when they release sales figures for their respective launches.
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November 23rd, 2006, 17:42 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via palgn
We previously reported some of the ups and downs of the much talked about Toys R US Wii pre-order deal in our Wii rumour feature a couple of weeks ago. A recap for those who missed the drama: Toys R Us had been promising a 'free game at launch' with $50 down on a Wii pre-order since the middle of the year. When it was announced that Wii Sports would be packed in with the console, many reasonably assumed that TRU would go the cheap route and say that this pack-in was the free game, even though every other store would be offering the same deal automatically.
However, Toys R Us employees began telling customers that it would in fact be an additional Wii game of their choice, and this news set pre-orders alight. Three weeks ago, the dream of free Zelda was shattered like so many stalfos when TRU changed the deal so that the free game could only be the upcoming movie tie-in Open Season. After receiving a lot of negative feedback as to this odd choice of title, TRU changed their deal again, allowing customers to chose between Open Season and the Wii version Need For Speed: Carbon, which while still no Zelda was an improvement.
But yesterday it seemed the already soiled rug had been pulled out from under eager gamers' feet. According to US gaming mega-blog Kotaku, the deal is now totally off, and customers will be receiving no free game at all. But while we all know the interwebs are world wide these days, what do the yanks know about Australian retailers?
While we are still waiting for official confirmation from the Toys R Us head office, some inquiries with actual stores, combined with common sense have led us to believe Kotaku have it wrong, and that current pre-order holders will still receive their choice of Open Season or Need For Speed: Carbon. The pre-order deal is now closed for new customers, perhaps this was confused with the deal being canceled for existing customers?
We'll keep you updated if we hear any more on the topic, but for now it seems as if there's no need to declare 'open season' on TRU.
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November 23rd, 2006, 18:00 Posted By: wraggster
Ok we all know by now that Gamecube Homebrew Works on the Wii via the Action Replay and SD Card Method, but the Gamecube Homebrew scene apart from 5 or 6 emulators and a few games and the GCos was never a massive success, does this mean an upturn for the Gamecube scene, maybe Datel will bring an action replay for Wii that opens it up for Homebrew and Hacking.
Thoughts anyone ?
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November 23rd, 2006, 18:03 Posted By: wraggster
By now many of you will have Wii Consoles, well we at Wii News and DCEmu would like to see reviews by our users, the game playing public are often better reviewers than some overpaid journalist.
So if you have a review please post it in our Submit News forum and we will do the rest.
Get your reviews noticed by many thousands and the best will be put up on our site as well
We Accept any Gaming and Hardware for Wii reviews
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November 23rd, 2006, 18:26 Posted By: wraggster
One mans review of the Virtual Console:
I bought 1000 points and spent 800 of them on SimCity, the charming SNES port of Will Wright's classic city-building simulation. I started the game, and just as jiji said, it was in true low-res (aka 240p)! If you're not a tech geek, that means... well, it's hard to explain succinctly. Suffice it to say that, assuming you're on a regular TV (not HD), the game looks 100% exactly like it would on a real SNES. Perhaps better, if you're using the Component cable and haven't seen a real SNES output RGB. This is an achievement that very few recent commercially emulated games can claim. Most developers choose to present old, low-res games in 480i, a high-res interlaced graphics mode which makes the images appear swimmy, blurry, and sometimes blocky. Basically, 480i sucks for old games. This is not dissimilar to presenting a classic movie in the wrong aspect ratio. An essential, if often overlooked, quality of the original presentation is lost.
Speaking of aspect ratio, there have been complaints that Virtual Console games appear stretched on widescreen-configured sets. This is true. However, this is a necessary consequence of preserving the original low resolution. The low-res graphics mode used by old games is typically 320x240 or lower. SNES is actually a measly 256x224 (aspect ratio 8:7), but we'll talk about 320x240 (4:3, just like an old TV) for simplicity's sake. These low-res modes have a distinctive appearance due to the SD CRT-exclusive phenomenon of scanlines. You see them as dark bands that run across every other line of the screen. They're an artifact of how non-HD CRTs used to work, and the graphics of most old console games were designed with them in mind. They help soften sharp edges and reduce pixelation. That's why losing them, as happens on a sloppy retropack or on an HD set, makes a low-res game's graphics look the worse for wear.
Anyway, 320x240 has a 4:3 aspect ratio. It's not widescreen (obviously) and it would be impossible to give a 320x240 game a widescreen presentation on a 320x240 screen without doing something stupid like scaling down the game's graphics (which is ugggggggly and worse than interlacing) to make room for borders. Classic games use the entire 4:3 screen, leaving no room for letterboxing or other types of widescreen effects. There's nothing that can change that without increasing the screen resolution beyond 320x240 and losing the original look of the game. For 100% accurate image quality you want one pixel on the screen for every pixel in the game. No more, no less. Adding pixels (scaling up from 320x240) or subtracting pixels (scaling down from 320x240) hurts the image quality in different ways.
(If you're playing on an HD set, you can't ever get a 100% accurate SD image, since the HDTV's line doubler automatically kills the scanlines. HDTVs don't like anything less than 480p. They're dumb that way.)
A valid workaround for both the aspect ratio and scanline concerns would be for VC titles to support Wii's sole progressive (HD) screen mode, 480p. The 16:9 852x480 resolution* would allow for widescreen presentation with the 4:3(ish) game centered in the middle of the screen. The game would appear small, however. A 2x resolution doubling (a simple line doubling, basically) would fix that without introducing scaling artifacts, and would in fact give the emulation software room to insert virtual scanlines on every other horizontal row. Depending on how well-done the fake scanline effect was, the end result could look very similar to the original, low-res game image. This would be A-OK with me as long as they left in the original low-res, native 4:3 option for those who want the 100% authentic, true SDTV look.
*Oops! Look what happens when I assume... GAF's collective wisdom sez that the Wii's widescreen is not 852x480 but a mere 640x480 stretched to 16:9. That throws a big old wrench in the VC widescreen suggestion above. Maybe there is no really good workaround to get a good 240p-like picture in progressive widescreen.
Everything else about SimCity appears to be similarly spot-on. It controls fine with a Wavebird. It's been almost 15 years since I last played my friend's copy, so my recollection of the music is sketchy. It sounds good to me though. I would need to play a SNES game I'm more familiar with to really judge the sound's accuracy. As for the gameplay, it's both slower and simpler than I recalled, though this is surely just my perception. I found myself building my stuff quickly and then waiting impatiently at the fastest game speed for the year to end so I'd get precious tax revenue to fund further building. I remember being a lot more... engrossed before. Busy. In any case, SNES SimCity is a very cool, well-done port of a classic game and I'm glad to be able to play it again.
What's most surprising to me is that, picky retro enthusiast that I am, I don't really mind owning the game in the Wii VC format. That's solely because Nintendo seems to have done a stellar job of getting the presentation SNES-perfect, or so close to it that I can't tell the difference yet. SimCity VC seems just as good as the original SNES cart; better if you consider the dead battery factor. (VC also lets you make a quicksave which is erased when you resume.) It's even got a decent online manual. Unless you want to own physical versions of everything (which is a valid viewpoint) the VC game is extremely compelling.
This is absolutely fantastic news for old games and the folks who love them. One of the industry's ongoing challenges is figuring out how to keep old classics in circulation (ala classic movies) while making good money in the process. Ham-fisted emulation usually leads to versions inferior to the originals, but if every VC-supported system's emulation is as flawless as VC's virtual SNES is, Nintendo will have gone a long way toward not only preserving the classics as they were meant to be experienced by the original creators, but making a lot of bank while doing so. They didn't have to do such a stellar job with the presentation, as most gamers aren't aware of these issues. That they did anyway is really encouraging to me and makes me feel slightly less like a ranting madman. Clearly, some folks at Nintendo share these concerns. I have my fingers crossed that every VC emulation engine will be similarly impressive. NES and SNES are both confirmed good; that's a big fun chunk of history right there. Great, great news.
Post your Virtual Console reports in our forums
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November 23rd, 2006, 18:54 Posted By: wraggster
New for the Nintendo Wii from SuccessHK:
Price:USD 26.85
Product Features of Nintendo Wii Nintendo Wii Classic Controller
Wii Classic Controller
More Description of Nintendo Wii Nintendo Wii Classic Controller
Wii Classic Controller. Over the years, Nintendo has innovated with controllers and control schemes that have become industry standards. The Classic Controller blends elements from Nintendo's NES, Super NES, and N64 controllers to allow for seamless play control over the titles that span the Virtual Console library.
Buy at SuccessHK:
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November 23rd, 2006, 19:00 Posted By: wraggster
New for the Nintendo Wii from SuccessHK:
Price:USD 26.85
Product Features of Nintendo Wii NintendoWii Nunchuk Controller
Nunchuk Controller
Same Motion-Sensing Technology
Analog Stick to Assist in Character Movement
Ambidextrous Design
More Description of Nintendo Wii NintendoWii Nunchuk Controller
Wii Nunchuk Controller. Connect the Nunchuk controller to the Wii Remote and get ready. The Nunchuk controller and the accelerometer contained within it are the next leap in gaming. In first-person shooters, the controller carries the burden of movement, freeing you to aim and fire using a more natural motion with the Wii Remote. In a football game, you can make your quarterback elusive with the Nunchuk controller while you look for an open receiver to throw to using the Wii Remote.
Buy at SuccessHK:
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November 23rd, 2006, 19:02 Posted By: wraggster
New for the Nintendo Wii from SuccessHK:
Price:USD 50.32
Product Features of Nintendo Wii Nintendo Wii Remote Controller
can be a Sword, a Steering Wheel, a Paintbrush, Golf Club, Airplane for different games
Wireless
More Description of Nintendo Wii Nintendo Wii Remote Controller
Wii Remote Controller. Wireless and motion-sensitive, the Wii Remote offers an intuitive, natural way to play games.
Buy at SuccessHK:
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November 23rd, 2006, 19:06 Posted By: wraggster
New from SuccessHK:
Price:USD 31.88
Product Features of Nintendo Wii Nintendo Wii Points Card - 2000 Points
Download Extra Features and Content
Download gretest games from old consoles
Worth 2,000 points
More Description of Nintendo Wii Nintendo Wii Points Card - 2000 Points
Wii Points Card. Downloading extra features and content, including the greatest games from the NES, Super NES, N64, Sega Genesis and NEC TurboGrafx video game consoles, will be as easy as entering a Wii Points Card code at a Wii onscreen menu. Worth 2,000 Wii Points, each separately packaged Wii Points Card contains a scratch-off patch concealing the code that allows you to redeem your Wii Points.
Buy at SuccessHK:
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November 23rd, 2006, 19:08 Posted By: wraggster
New from SuccessHK:
AiAi and all his friends have rolled their way onto Nintendo's new console with new mind-blowing puzzle levels and a wealth of new and exciting Party Games specifically designed to fully exploit the innovative Nintendo Wii controller. Other titles will have a difficult time matching the multitude of possible variations in game control as presented in Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz.
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November 23rd, 2006, 20:28 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via computerandvideogames
Flash website lets you create and play mini-games on the Wii
Do you fancy making your own mini-games for people to play on their Wii? Wiicade.com is a Flash-based mini-games website that is designed specifically for use on the Wii's Opera Browser.
Cleverly, all the games on the site are played using the mouse pointer which, when browsing on a Wii console, will be operated with the pointer functionality of the Wii Remote. So you'll be able to play the games with the Remote.
The best part is that it has an option that allows users to create and upload their own games for other Wii users to play - essentially starting a homebrew scene of sorts on Wii.
There is already a decent selection of cool games, from shooter to puzzle games, all made to fit the ration of a TV and many of them even imitating the visual style of the Wii's interface menus.
Now we're just waiting for someone to make a Flash version of Duck Hunt. It's bound to happen.
we could see a mini homebrew scene for the wii come from this
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November 23rd, 2006, 22:26 Posted By: wraggster
cooliscool posted this news/release:
Here's a new version of Dolphin Memory card maker (GCI>Memcard_x.raw) which should actually work. Been working on it on and off and it's much more dynamic, should work. Note that I haven't tested it as I have no GCMs/ISOs.
What it does is allows you to download .GCI saves from say, gamefaqs, and convert them to usable Dolphin Memcards. Just open a .GCI in the program, and click "make dolphin memcard." From there, just overwrite (or make a new one, doesn't matter, though you'll eventually have to overwrite) your old memcard_a.raw or memcard_b.raw file, and run the game. Currently it only supports injecting on a per-file basis (as in, only one game per memcard_x file), but the next version will fix that. Keep in mind that the "data" folder is necessary, and that no other memcard_a.raw will work if placed here (so keep a backup!).
Future versions will be a bit more fancy, such as banner loading, game name recognition (to an extent.. internal names), etc.
Requires .NET framework 2.0.
Edit: Download removed.. undergoing a fix.
Edit 2: Error fixed, tested and works (tested with Wind Waker only, though it'll work with all others theoretically). Source (VB .NET.. uncommented, sorry), and binary are attached.
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November 23rd, 2006, 22:36 Posted By: wraggster
Shash has posted more of his work on the DS emulator DeSmuMe, heres whats new:
Today I've been working on the capture unit, which, from the examples (and games) I've been able to get my hands on is used mainly for using 3D output on both screens of the DS, motion blur or screenshots. Of course there're a lot of other uses (much more that I can think at the moment), but for example, it's used on the menus of "Metroid Prime: First Hunt" for all the moving stuff on both screens. My implementation right now is very vague (just did today in a few hours) and lacks support for all the modes, but at least got the menus showing better in Metroid.
Also did some misc bugfixing here and there, that's not even interesting to talk about. Only one of the minor tweaks in the texture handling routines, that I thought would give crappy results, fixed hell a load of stuff.
More info --> http://shashemudev.blogspot.com/
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November 23rd, 2006, 23:41 Posted By: I heart Nintendo
There is a brand new trailer for Metroid prime 3: corruption! *screams* And I have it right here!! I do not want to hear anybody badmouth the graphical capabilities of the Wii, because as you'll see shortly - this game looks frackin' hot! The game was slated to release on the same day as Wii, but was pushed back to 2007 not long after e3.
Watch the new trailer:
The game looks awesome and appears to have this epic and grand feel about it. Between this, Super Mario Galaxy and Smash bros. brawl - I think it's safe to say Nintendo have 2007 in the palm of their hand. Fingers crossed for on-line play...
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November 24th, 2006, 00:11 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via nintendorevolution
Go Nintendo kills the Wii rumor
Nintendo Wii Bluetooth Is NOT Picture HungryThere's been a bizarre Wii rumor floating around that seemed so darn unlikely, even we didn't post about it. It all stemmed from a Nintendo forum user (This is becoming a trend, no?) that posted the following:
I just went in my photo channel just to look at the opening menu (I had no pictures on the SD card, or so I thought) when I clicked on the left button. It said that there were 12 pictures available. So, I was like “what’s going on here” and viewed them. It turned out to be pictures from my brother’s phone.
The allegation was that Wii was magically synching with nearby cellphones via Bluetooth and downloading the photos of 'em.
Pure nonsense, says Go Nintendo.
This is 100% not true. Bluetooth devices have to be paired with one another to get them to see each other. On top of that, there would be no reason that an SD card would have to be inserted to get this to work. To further prove that it doesn’t work, I even tried it multiple times just to give a first-hand confirmation that this isn’t true.
Another day, another rumor debunked.
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November 24th, 2006, 00:17 Posted By: Is'lan
One of my earliest childhood memories was watching my brother play such games as Super Mario Bros. for the original NES, and Final Fantasy 2 and 3 for the SNES. Of course, at the time, my own ventures in the gaming world was limited mostly to multiplayer bouts with my family. Once I was old enough to buy my own video games, however, it was in the Playstation hay-day, and once I saved money enough I finally got my PS2 when I was 17. The Nintendo in that age was different to me from the Nintendo of before, a company that I felt more indifference to than craving at its center bastion of creativity.
But those days changed as I lay knelt before my bed, slowly opening this small, white box sporting a small, three-letter word. The Wii stood for something new, something different, something innovative. And now it was mine, the first person to get it from GameStop as the hour struck midnight, marking the beginning of the 19th of November.
I slipped open the box neatly, not even needing to cut any tape off. What awaited me were two slide-out compartment-shelves. I slipped open the first one, to find a flock of instruction manuals, the sensor bar, the nunchuck, but more importantly, the wiimote. I slipped the protective sheath off the tiny saber, instantly noticing that it seemed smaller than predicted, and, despite reading a review that spoke to the contrary, incredibly light. So light, in fact, that it almost seemed absurd how much the item really costs.
The second shelf I pulled out. And there it was. Taking its protective coat off, I curled the white obelisk within the dark folds of my arms, a demon embracing an angel. "It has been far too long, old friend," I muttered to it. Nintendo, I am back.
Setup
The setup was easy enough as any standard gaming console, barely even bothering to look through the instruction manuals, of which there are quite a few, including three copies of the same one (one in English, one Spanish/Mexican?, and one French). The only thing about the setup that really made it different from any other system was the sensor bar: small, thin, and well-balanced, it fit neatly atop my television, its thin wire draping from behind it, up into the compartment that held my Wii. And by thin, I do very-much-so mean thin, almost to the point of fear of too much weight being put on it, and long, quite long, which may come in very useful one day.
The power adapter, audio/visual cables connected, and the sensor bar all connected in the back, it was time to fire this baby up. One thing I noticed was that the standby-light on the Wii came immediately on when I plugged the power adapter in. Though I have not even bothered reading any manual yet, I must come to the current conclusion that it is in fact impossible to turn off your Wii short of unplugging it outright.
Turning It On
I sat back on my couch, and pressed the little power button on the Wii-mote. Instead of getting some nice, happy-sounding startup sound like I was hoping for, however, I simply got a safety-warning/caution from Nintendo before moving on to the mundane task of filling out such things as the time, date, and location/language. At the end of it all, though, came the time to actually name my Wii. Though I take great delight out of naming my computers, I have never received any inspiration to name any of my consoles. After much deliberation, I decided on Evereska, punching in the words from an on-screen keyboard with the wiimote. Indeed, these first trials with the wiimote felt very responsive, if making a notice of my hand's own unsteadiness. One nice feature I liked was that the wiimote pulses as the cursor moves over selectable buttons. Feels like you are really moving over them.
Once the name was complete, I was brought to the Wii Channels page. Since the box did not come with the Wii StartUp Disc like I was expecting (as some have reported), I decided to jump right in and put a game in.
Wii Sports
Of course, the first thing I try out is Tennis. I used this opportunity to experiment with the wiimote, letting the system tell the difference of power of my strokes. I even tried to see if a light swing would be detected in order to set the ball right over the net: turns out that that is not a recommended strategy, with motion not seeming to be picked up at all. Really, you only seem to have two moves in this game, front-swing and back-swing, along with changing the height of your racket to hit the ball. Though I tried playing this game sitting down at first, me and my friends found that it was more fun standing up. Though a simple game, we found it mildly enjoyable for it's simplicity.
Next my friend Jesse gave a shot at bowling. I'm not sure if it is the same in real life, but at first we discovered that there is a natural tendency of the ball to drift to the left, causing us to move more to the right in order to get a strike. However, as he got more used to the controls, Jesse started being more powerful with his throws, which seemed to cancel out the drifting. One fine moment of physics was when he was able to pick up a two-set spare, launch one pin into another for the win.
Our next undertaking was boxing, which is, in our opinion, the best. It is the only one that we have played that uses the nunchuck attachment (for some reason all other games make you remove the nunchuck before playing), using both to box in normal fashion, setting them inwards to block, and leaning them left and right to effectively swerve. This combination of features quickly became lots of fun, though we discovered that the game doesn't like it when you move the wiimote too fast.
Though I would not say that this game is money-worthy, Wii Sports is a very nice addition to the game system, and an excellent item with which to first test out your new controls. (Oh, and remember: you can make your own personal Mii with which to play Wii Sports, as well as other future planned games). But now, it was probably time for a real game.
Red Steel
I really wanted to pick up Zelda: Twilight Princess at launch, naturally, but unfortunately GameStop had them already fully reserved (silly me, I only preordered the console itself). However, they did have plenty of copies of Red Steel, which was in my head the next-best game for the launch. So I inserted the disc and selected the game channel from the Wii Channel page. The disc ran for a while before it finally loaded, bringing me to a new interface. The wiimote seemed to slow down, and I was brought to a very odd menu screen after all the initial messages (I do get tired of seeing the same ones very every single game you play). I new from the beginning that this was going to take some getting used to as I had to use the wiimote, not only to select a menu item, but had to click and drag it on to a billboard for some reason.
I quickly found myself dropped in the story, which I must say seems quite bland. The immersion factor seems quite wanting, with the fact that it is a video game being reminded to you every time an NPC talks. My first trials, of course, involved simply moving the camera around. The "bounding box," as IGN puts it, or, the invisible area on-screen that acts as a turning-point when the wiimote pointer strays to it, felt more responsive than I had feared. However, there were still some performance problems, such as the cursor seeming to get stuck one of the right-hand corners, not wanting to come down, thus making it difficult if you wanted to, say, look up-right and then smoothly move to just right-pan. There was also a time when a sensor-mishap with the wiimote resulted in my character's arms apparently twisting upside-down on screen.
There is also a certain care you have to find yourself taking with wiimote. For example, I quickly found that sitting straight up and forward instead of slouching makes a big difference. Also, try to have a centering-point for the wiimote and nunchuck, namely to where your elbows are glued to your sides with your forearms pointing out and a little inwards (at least with my not-very-big screen that I have to deal with). There is also a necessary feature in Red Steel where you can zoom in on enemies by holding A and pushing the wiimote towards the screen. Several times I had a problem, though, when I'd be under cover, and my arm would be sticking out but it would not be zoomed in. What can a guy do? Well, stretch yourself out to lean even further in, as uncomfortable as that is.
I also had some initial fears of the sword-fighting system put to rest: your movement is not fixed, though the camera is (on your opponent), and the parry and dodge system is not as repetitive-feeling as I thought that it would be. However, don't expect to be using your wiimote like a real sword. The attacks, so far that I have seen, are rather limited, and without a clear command with the wiimote, it becomes very finnicky.
All-in-all, I only played the first twenty minutes of the game that really only acts as an introduction to the gameplay, so there is a chance for improvement as the game continues.
Networking Connection
For my final task I decided to at least try to connect to the internet; though I did not myself have a wireless router, I live close enough to my college campus that I just might be able to find a connection. And, lo and behold, I could, given the option to select one of two wireless access points (their icons showing which signal strength was stronger). The actual connection, however, took quite a long while. Also, when I put my Wii into standby and turned it back on, it seemed that it needed to connect again, which seems to me that it goes against the claim that the Wii remains connected to the Internet even when it is in standby.
Well, that is all for my initial review. Though so far I am at least not used to this new control scheme, I still have high hopes for this game console. Why? Because Nintendo is actually trying to be creative. The actual fate of it, however, lies in the game developers.
UPDATE 11/23/06
As I thought Red Steel does get better, although the sword-fighting system remains pretty buggy and unresponsive to the point of annoyance (but can somewhat be enjoyable just for visual appeal if nothing else). Often I find myself laughing at the terrible dialogue. I have also run into a few glitches in the game, such as when one sword-fighting match started, instead of switching to my sword automatically, I still had my uzi equipped. So I tried to simply shoot the guy. That failed, and instead it then switched to my sword, only the sound-effect the uzi firing kept on going, and remained throughout the rest of the scene. As for the enemy AI, it is both good and yet at the same time not so good. They are very good at hiding at cover, but kneeling down behind a box of crates doesn't help when I'm already on the other side of said crates. Though I rather wish I had not spent $50 on it, I still enjoy having it.
I have also managed to pick up Zelda: Twilight Princess, and must say I am more than impressed just with the use of colors in this game. My only gripe is that sometimes the gameplay feels as if you are really just trying to find out what you are suppose to do, and it's easy to do once you find out what it is, rather than the other way around, but that in no way keeps me from enjoying it. I'm in the third dungeon currently, and I must also praise their creative level designing. This is simply a winner and a must-have for all Wii owners.
Also, I was a little worried about power to the wiimote. The AA's that came packaged definitely did not last the promised 60 hours, but my rechargeable 2500mAh seem to do the job perfectly. Also, if you let your wiimote sit for awhile, it'll automatically shutdown to save power (you can't manually turn it off though without turning off the Wii).
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November 24th, 2006, 03:19 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via apcstart
As if to dangle a gold medal of some sort in Intel's face, AMD is flaunting -- no, gloating over -- sorry, congratulating Nintendo on its release of the Wii console.
It would seem AMD is squeezing its acquisition of ATI for all the juice it's worth, as it is an ATI graphics chip that pumps-out Wii's adequate graphics. Although, no longer ATI, as AMD has imaginatively decided to name the Wii's GPU the 'AMD Hollywood' graphics processor.
One of the unique aspects about the Wii is its focus on fun and gameplay as opposed to the technology within the unit.
Not interested in emphasizing the highly-usable nature of its technology for the Wii, AMD is only too keen to pick up the bulk of the credit for the greater focus on game innovation. It confidently declared the sufficient Hollywood chip "... resulted in Nintendo delivering a brand new level of immersive gameplay and interaction ..."
Fans should be praising AMD for implementing such a reasonably-capable graphics chip into their Wii. Such a fine pedigree of gameplay, we hear, wouldn't have been possible with any other brand.
"Nintendo's vision is to do something radically new and different with Wii," AMD says el presidente of Nintendo America said, continuing "... the technology hidden in the system allows us to deliver an intuitive and fun gaming experience in a silent and beautiful form factor," wrestling back some credit for the Wii's gameplay.
Thanks to its unique controller, which we hear AMD had no part in, AMD says Nintendo's bigshot said the Wii "... not only changes how people play games, but redefines how they interact with both the system and their televisions." This goes against the norm of redefining how you don't play games.
Cementing its position as making superbly-existent graphics chips for Nintendo, AMD's Dave 'ATI-of-yore' Orton says "Having powered the graphics in the Nintendo GameCube, AMD is delighted to ..."
No, seriously, the rest of that quote will put you in a coma.
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November 24th, 2006, 03:21 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via palgn
Good news for the retro purists: news filtering through from the US suggests that games downloaded on the Wii's Virtual Console are proving to be unerringly authentic, right down to the resolution. See, it turns out that the majority of NES and SNES games originally sported resolutions of 256×224 or 256×240, and upgrading those on-screen resolutions for the Wii would actually make the VC version of titles look worse on high definition sets. Meaning standard definition sets would actually display NES and SNES games best. It's like raaaaaain on your wedding day. Y'know, ironic.
Anyway, it turns out that the clever old Virtual Console switches between 480i and 240p when you fire up a title from the NES and SNES years. Meaning that - for once - owners of SD sets are the ones with the last laugh. And quite right, really - there'd be something horribly wrong about playing the original Super Mario Bros. in spangly new high definition.
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November 24th, 2006, 16:46 Posted By: wraggster
Although we suspected that Metal Slug Anthology on Wii would have to be played using either the Classic Controller or GameCube pad, it will actually allow gamers to choose from multiple control schemes using the Wii Remote and Nunchuk.
The Nunchuk Control scheme lets you control your character with the Nunchuk while using the A and B buttons to jump and shoot. Or you can turn the Wii Remote on its side and it alone to control the game, using its D-Pad and face buttons like a traditional pad, or a stranger scheme letting you tilt the controller left or right to move your character and jumping, shooting and throwing grenades with the D-pad and 1 and 2 buttons.
Hardcore arcade nuts can also choose a scheme that uses the Wii Remote to emulate an arcade stick, gripping it vertically and lean it in the direction you want to move and shoot.
The Anthology, which will include Metal Slug 1, 2, X, 3, 4, and 6, will be released on Wii early next year and, being one of our favourite arcade games of all time, we honestly can't wait. For now, just appreciate the chaos in these new screens.
Screens Via Comments
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November 24th, 2006, 16:56 Posted By: wraggster
The small, square-headed Sims look like a cross between Lego men and characters from Harvest Moon.
Although EA has yet to disclose gameplay details, one of these in-game screens demonstrate the ability to customise your town, setting the position of your house using the Wii Remote.
It also appears to set you free in a bustling town with various buildings and shops to explore, rather than confining you to a single household as the series traditionally does.
Sims Wii is set to launch in Japan in 2007.
Screens Via Comments
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November 24th, 2006, 16:58 Posted By: wraggster
Developers Broadsword Interactive, makers of Dakar Racing, will release both of their new off-road racers, previously in development for PS2, on Wii as well.
Both games are based on Baja racing, which takes place in the desert. Baja Mania is the realistic game of the two, with a selection of dune buggies and trucks to thrash in Career and Arcade modes on various off-road terrains.
Baja Destruction is a less serious, more chaotic take on the sport, with weapons including rockets to blow up opponents, and crazy low-gravity races on the moon.
The cars in both games are upgradeable as you progress through the Career modes, and each game apparently stretches over 400 square meters of virtual land.
The Wii version is expected to receive graphical tweaks over the PS2, including bump-mapping (makes flat surfaces appear to be bumpy surfaces) and better lighting.
As you'd expect, both games will also use the Wii Remote's tilting functionality to steer the cars.
First screens are expected before Christmas, with the games due out in early 2007
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November 24th, 2006, 17:02 Posted By: wraggster
Heres an excerpt:
There was a split in opinion when Nintendo first showed off Wii sports back in May at E3. Some were stunned and excited at the prospect of waving the Wii Remote around to hit the ball in tennis, while others took one look at the graphics and went back to the Xbox 360 booth.
Wii Sports is a package of five simple sports games: tennis, baseball, boxing, golf and bowling. As you can see, it doesn't sport much in the way of depth, neither in the graphics department nor its features, but the straightforward gameplay shows off the capabilities of the Wii very well.
Tennis is undoubtedly the best game in the package. Although you don't control the movements of your character - the computer does that automatically - you are in full control of the timing, positioning and power of your shot, all done by swinging the Remote like a tennis racquet, and it feels great.
But we don't care about the fitness score - we just have good fun playing the challenges. The boxing challenges has you hitting dummies and targets, bowling gives you, like, a million pins (slight exaggeration) to hit and there are all sorts of cool tennis games, like the target practice mentioned earlier.
Wii Sports is neither bulging in features nor graphically impressive, but when you put everything together, you have a fun package that, although better in places than others, is varied enough to keep you entertained for a good while and brilliant in multiplayer.
We'd have paid £20 for it. You're getting it in the box with your Wii. You can't complain but we're sure some of you will.
Full Article at CVG
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November 24th, 2006, 17:07 Posted By: wraggster
It's barely been out for a few weeks yet rumor is already spreading that Nintendo has plans on releasing a high-def-capable Wii. In an interview with gaming site Game Informer, Nintendo's Reggie Fils-Aime states that Nintendo made "tough choices about not including a DVD player at the start, tough choices about not including high-definition capability at the start." Nintendo has already confirmed a DVD-playing Wii for Japan, so could this mean we can expect a high-def Wii in our future or is this just really hopeful thinking?
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November 24th, 2006, 17:16 Posted By: wraggster
via thewire
According to the Q & A section of Wii Shop Channel on the Wii console, software developers can update already released Virtual Console games free of charge.
The section reads as follows:
The "Update" button indicates there are enhancements for the game. If you have already downloaded the game, you may select "Update" to download the enhancements free of charge. Please note, downloading the update may impact the saved game data.
Previously, President Satoru Iwata noted all of the expected plans in September, but never officially announced progressive updates. While Nintendo had noted there may be enhancements to existing games, no information specified updating games already available and purchased on the Virtual Console service.
Currently, it is unknown which games plan to offer updates. The Wiire will investigate this matter further, stay tuned.
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November 24th, 2006, 17:32 Posted By: wraggster
New for Nintendo DS:
features
Use strength and intelligence to uncover ancient treasures -- Use the grappling hook, an arsenal of new weapons, Communications devices, and other tools to achieve your goals
Travel to the world's most exotic locales - Treacherous jungles, snowy mountain ranges and more
Play new and exclusive mini games on the DS
Discover and explore living breathing, lost ancient realms that hold clues to the secrets of Lara's past
description
Tomb Raider: Legend brings back the gaming world's sexiest and most intrepid adventurer. Follow Lara down a path of discovery as she travels the globe to remote, exotic locales in search of one of history's greatest artefacts that unleash unwelcome figures from Lara's mysterious past. Use her skills to explore vast, treacherous tombs, riddled with challenging puzzles and deadly traps. Physics, Water and Fire systems bring the perilous environments of Lara's world alive, and challenge the player to improvise solutions to obstacles. Jump into the future of adrenaline-fuelled adventure.
More Info / buy Here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1q15.html
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November 24th, 2006, 17:34 Posted By: wraggster
New for GBA :
features
Lara is more realistic than ever - the sexy, dual-pistol wielding heroine has new graphics and animation sets
Discover and explore living breathing, lost ancient realms that hold clues to the secrets of Lara's past
Use strength and intelligence to uncover ancient treasures -- Use the grappling hook, an arsenal of new weapons, Communications devices, and other tools to achieve your goals
description
Tomb Raider: Legend brings back the gaming world's sexiest and most intrepid adventurer. Follow Lara down a path of discovery as she travels the globe to remote, exotic locales in search of one of history's greatest artefacts that unleash unwelcome figures from Lara's mysterious past. Use her skills to explore vast, treacherous tombs, riddled with challenging puzzles and deadly traps. Physics, Water and Fire systems bring the perilous environments of Lara's world alive, and challenge the player to improvise solutions to obstacles. Jump into the future of adrenaline-fuelled adventure.
More Info --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1q16.html
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November 24th, 2006, 17:37 Posted By: wraggster
New at Play Asia:
features
Arm Link: The Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers are used for a variety of game activities from fishing to projectile-weapon aiming. The game features incredibly precise aiming control using the Wii Remote controller. Use the controllers for sword swings, spin attacks and shield shoves.
Thrilling Adventure: Players ride into battle against troops of foul creatures and wield a sword and shield with the Wii Remote and Nunchuk controllers, then take on massive bosses that must be seen to be believed.
Mind & Muscle: Many puzzles stand between Link and the fulfillment of his quest, so players must sharpen their wits as they hunt for weapons and items.
description
When an evil darkness enshrouds the land of Hyrule, a young farm boy named Link must awaken the hero – and the animal – within. When Link travels to the Twilight Realm, he transforms into a wolf and must scour the land with the help of a mysterious girl named Midna. Besides his trusty sword and shield, Link will use his bow and arrows by aiming with the Wii Remote controller, fight while on horseback and use a wealth of other items, both new and old.
More info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1pob.html
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November 24th, 2006, 17:39 Posted By: wraggster
New Game released today for Wii
features
Never-before-seen SpongeBob art styles that will change Bikini Bottom forever
Five brand new gameplay mechanics: Rampaging, flying, skydiving, chasing and hot rod racing
Wacky and unique game experiences based on character-centric fantasies
description
Your perception of Bikini Bottom will never be the same as you embark on a series of fantastic tales of the bizarre and unusual. Adventure your way through nine deeply outrageous and visually wacky levels. Experience the world of SpongeBob like never before as you rampage through Bikini Bottom as gigantic Plankton, fly as SpongeBob through the savage jaw of the enormous bull worm and even blast off into outer space as you survive a high-speed asteroid field as Patrick.
Buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1pp0.html
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November 24th, 2006, 17:42 Posted By: wraggster
Newly released for Nintendo Wii:
Rayman Raving Rabbids is the edgiest and most off-the-wall gaming experience in the history of the Rayman franchise.
This new Rayman game features the funniest, zaniest, wackiest antics ever when hordes of nasty bunnies invade Rayman’s world and he is enslaved and forced to participate in a series of gladiator- style trials. In order to win his freedom, Rayman must entertain and outwit these crazed, out-of-control bunnies.
Buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1pow.html
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November 24th, 2006, 20:06 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via engadget
As some early Wii adopters have discovered, the Wii's sensor bar turns out to be far less complicated than it seems at first glance, consisting of nothing more than a couple of standard IR emitters, with that lengthy cord cluttering up your living room supplying nothing but a trickle of power to the device. While even a couple of standard TV remotes can serve as a substitute in a pinch, for a more workable wireless solution you'll have to bring your DIY skills to bear. Thankfully, as Brian "DoctaBu" Moore explains on his LiveJournal, the process is about as simple as homebrew projects get, requiring only an inexpensive trip to Radio Shack and some minimal soldiering abilities. While it ain't pretty, the contraption pictured above will let you enjoy a game of Wii Sports bowling (at your own risk) and rid one more wire from your life at the same time. Of course, if you're still hesitant to get your hands dirty, you can bet that there'll be more than a few third-party (if not first-party) options finding their way to store shelves before too long.
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November 24th, 2006, 21:43 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via kotaku
I know we've reported about this before, but it doesn't quite hit home until it happens to you.
This morning a gaggle of children had set up residence in my lounge to play some Wii. About ten minutes into Wii Sports play I heard a distressingly loud thump followed by even more frightening silence.
Chugging downstairs I found a circle of children staring at me with wide eyes and open mouths. On the floor lay a Wii remote, on one of the child's wrists a broken Wii strap.
They were, they tell me, playing baseball. Fortunately, the airborne remote slapped into a wall and not my $3,000 plasma screen.
For now, I am no longer letting the kids play Wii. If I have to decide between a happy half-dozen children and a working Plasma the TV wins every time.
Until Nintendo gets around to fixing the exceedingly flimsy piece of string holding the strap to the Wii, I'm not going to be letting anyone play Wii Sports anywhere near my TV.
I'm hoping someone, anyone, steps up and comes out with a much sturdier, perhaps metal, cord for the strap.
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November 24th, 2006, 21:46 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via kotaku
As I predicted way back when Nintendo first announced the sensor bar for the WIi, people who front projection systems are sorta screwed. Actually, they are totally screwed unless their projector is mounted within a dozen feet or so of the surface they are projecting on.
One gamer, whose distance between projector and wall is 30-feet, decided to hack apart that super thin sensor wire and make his own extra-long connection.
Stuck without a way to make the console work as I needed a 30' sensor bar connection and not seeing anyone else take the plunge yet, I snipped my sensor bar wire in order to splice in an extension.
The wire is 2 conductor stranded and very thin. There's white fabric shielding around the wires and a couple strands of white shielding wrapped up with the wires. The 2 conductor wires are twisted. So, I stripped the lines back and separated to the two wires. Again, they are very fine, thin strands. One is red and one is orange.
I cut a short segment of 24 gauge, 2 conductor wire I bought at Radio Shack, and proceeded to solder it in for testing. I figured no sense using a huge wire length just to verify if this works. The sensor bar wire doesn't take to solder too well. It was resistant to sticking. Finally, though, I got the solder to stick and went to test.
Long story short, he redid the solder three times before it worked, which may have been because of a bad solder or because the hacker forgot to recycle his Wii during the testing phase.
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November 24th, 2006, 22:27 Posted By: wraggster
New Nintendo Wii Game released:
Based on the Warner Bros. Pictures feature film, Happy Feet follows Mumble, a tap–dancing penguin, in his struggle to find his soul mate. Featuring the voices of Elijah Wood as Mumble and Brittany Murphy as Gloria, the videogame sees Mumble dance, belly–sled and swim his way through Antarctica as he tries to win Gloria's heart.
Buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1poz.html
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November 24th, 2006, 22:29 Posted By: wraggster
New Nintendo Wii Game released:
features
Free steering wheel included (compatible with most racing games)
Race 80+ authentically modeled cars, each with 11 tunable components
Dominate the competition in drift mode by mastering awesome drift combos
Split-screen multiplayer modes for up to 4 players
buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1pot.html
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November 24th, 2006, 22:31 Posted By: wraggster
New from Play Asia:
features
Body English: Remember tilting your arms while playing Excitebike to try to make your character land a huge jump? That experience is finally a reality with Excite Truck.
Controller as a Steering Wheel: Players hold the Wii Remote like an NES controller to control the truck. The 2 button is the accelerator, the 1 button is the brake, the + Control Pad is the turbo... but that's just the beginning. Tilt the Wii Remote controller right and left like a steering wheel to steer. Once the truck goes airborne, tilt the Wii Remote controller every which way to line up the wheels for landing boosts.
Dynamic Terrain: Pick up items on the courses to make the terrain deform in real time, turning innocent bumps into massive launch pads that affect not only the player's route, but that of his or her rivals. Players jump and bump their way to the highest score and highest finish.
description
In the grand racing tradition of Excitebike, get ready for a big-air experience like no other! Players rocket their trucks across dynamically changing terrain in this nitrous-injected, high-flying racer for speed junkies. Showing the Wii Remote controller's versatility, players tilt the controller on its side to turn it into a wireless steering wheel!
Buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1po5.html
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November 24th, 2006, 22:54 Posted By: wraggster
New for the Wii from SuccessHK
Product Features of Nintendo Wii Silicon Sleeve for Wii Controller - Blue
Provide convenient control
Elastic soft silicon material
Pressing button with suitable cutting
Best protection
Available color: Black, Blue, White, Pink
More Description of Nintendo Wii Silicon Sleeve for Wii Controller - Blue
With the considerable design giving absolute protection to Wii controller high quality silicon plastic protection sleeve. Soft material and beatiful design. You will never have to worry about your controller being scratched.
Buy at SuccessHK
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November 24th, 2006, 22:58 Posted By: wraggster
New for the Wii from SuccessHK
Product Features of Nintendo Wii Skid Prooof Glove for Wii Controller
Prevent the controller slipping out when playing
Made of special ventilated material
More Description of Nintendo Wii Skid Prooof Glove for Wii Controller
It is specialized for Wii controller in order to prevent slipping.
Buy at SuccessHK
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November 24th, 2006, 23:27 Posted By: wraggster
New Nintendo DS Game preorder at SuccessHK
Star Wars: Lethal Alliance is the first original Star Wars game built exclusively for the PSP system and DS, immersing players in an adventure that takes place between Episode III Revenge of the Sith and Episode IV A New Hope. Gamers will engage in collaborative gameplay as they embody both Twi’lek Rianna Saren and her security droid Zeeo. Hired by the Rebel Alliance, this deadly duo must work together to infiltrate Imperial planets and fight legions of evil fiends. Our heroes' ultimate goal: Uncover the Empire’s most deadly secret ?the Death Star.
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November 24th, 2006, 23:29 Posted By: wraggster
New Nintendo DS Game preorder at SuccessHK
Castlevania is back on the DS with an all-new adaptation of the award winning action exploration gameplay that has held fans captive for 2 decades! Take control of two heroes, Jonathan Morris, a vampire killer and his close friend Charlotte Orlean, a girl with tremendous magical ability. Amidst the chaos of World War II, two mysterious sisters emerge working to resurrect Dracula and David and Charlotte are all that stand in their way.
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November 25th, 2006, 00:10 Posted By: wraggster
Rich has released a new version of his port of NesterDS for the Nintendo DS.
Heres whats new:
Vastly improved compatibility by fixing several mapper problems.
Got rid of alternate-line rendering.
Lots of speed-ups (better DTCM management, changed screen writes to occur during
actual scanline routines, lots of other stuff).
Converted code-base to pure C, moved to devkitARM r19b.
There were lots of changes that I've forgotten about in here, this was sitting around on my hard drive half-finished for months. I was also working on converting expensive PPU routines to ARM, but that was also unfinished. The included source has some of the ARM routines that I did finish.
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November 25th, 2006, 00:25 Posted By: wraggster
This is what German hacker/student/musician Tob, who created the cool NitroTracker old-school tracker app for the DS has been working on: Software to turn put easy-to-use MIDI into the Nintendo DS using WiFi. Previously, you've had to use hardware. The DS obviously sucks as a keyboard, but is great as a little X-Y controller like a Kaoss Pad, and presumably there's no reason why he can't build a simple XOX drum programmer, a little Lemur clone, or even a virtual Monome. Tob is still developing the software - as you can see from the video, it's in a pretty early stage - but it will be released ASAP. And even if you don't have a DS, stick with this video long enough to hear the guy playing 'We Will Rock You' though the onboard sounds..
Video Here --> http://youtube.com/watch?v=AYDF313Ae7A
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November 25th, 2006, 00:26 Posted By: wraggster
Via DS Fanboy
Reviews have been slow in coming for Konductra, the new DS puzzler from indie developer oeFun. Maybe the horrifically boring all-about video we showed you not long ago put everyone off. Or it could have been the yawnariffic gameplay. We're open to examining multiple possibilities here. Nearly every aspect of Konductra is raked over the coals in these reviews -- the methodology of gameplay, the missing element of risk that makes puzzle games exciting, and even the production values. In other words? Eminently skippable. But is it less fun because we've seen other, more exciting puzzlers on the DS, or is the gameplay itself flawed? Read on.
IGN - 65%: Konductra gives you too much control. In other puzzlers, blocks or tiles assault the playing field relentlessly - cascading into the pit in Tetris, or crashing down from orbit in Meteos. It's constant. It doesn't stop. Playing those games is playing for survival, trying to manage the stack and keep from being overwhelmed. Konductra isn't Tetris or Meteos, and no direct comparison is implied. Those games are simply used as examples to illustrate a quality Konductra lacks - a sense of danger.
Worth Playing - 50%: As a puzzle game, Konductra isn't expected to be a graphical powerhouse, and it isn't. The menu screens are graphically unimpressive and unwieldy (rather than simply picking an option, you must "highlight" it as if you were playing the game). The game board itself is simplistic and rather dull to look at, with only four colors and a non-existent background ... Konductra does manage to pull off a pretty good soundtrack. Trance-like peppy music plays over the gameplay, oddly out of sync with some of the early gameplay, although it does a better job of matching more intense difficulty levels. One nice addition is the game's full-voiced tutorial, although the game is not really complex enough to require such a detailed feature.
GameSpot - 42%: Even with seemingly so much going on in any given game, Konductra is boring and lifeless. A little personality could have helped matters, but the bare-bones presentation is unremarkable. There are no alternating skins, so you're stuck with a generic pulsing blue background surrounded by bland grey-and-white conductors. The blocks are shimmery and colorful, but no nicer than any number of free Flash PC games on the Internet. Accompanying it all is a small set of grating MIDI techno tunes that will make you glad you have the option to turn off the music.
Overall verdict? Ouch. But when there are so many brilliant handheld puzzlers, it's bound to be difficult for anything else to make a splash unless it's just as good, and it looks like Konductra simply isn't
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November 25th, 2006, 00:31 Posted By: wraggster
ttursas has again updated his homebrew game for the DS, heres whats new:
What's new in v0.1.7:
* Updated libcartreset to v0.72.
* Removed -ansi from the server makefile's gcc options.
* Made turbo boost a little slower.
* Halved the damage the planes take from colliding with each other.
* The network I/O is now also handled in the plane selection screen. Before it wasn't
and would lead to a timeout.
* All planes have white base color. Before each player would have its own base color,
but most colors just didn't work well.
* Made the gravity 25% stronger.
* If the player changes the plane while connected to the server (but no game is on),
the plane selection is sent to the server automatically.
* The online status of the other players is also shown on the play menu screen.
* Added sparkle and dark smoke particles.
* When a plane is low on energy, it'll start emitting dark smoke and sparkles.
* The weapons do now 33% less damage than before.
* Compressed network update packets.
...
v0.1.7 is mainly a bugfix release with also fixes in the playability. Expect more features
in v0.1.8 (like cooler HUD, smarter AI, and something extra as well).
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November 25th, 2006, 06:05 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via nintendorevolution
Wii rules Yahoo Buzz Index
It's pretty evident by now that Nintendo Wii is the hot item this holiday season, even more so than PS3 or certainly Xbox 360.
Sales prove it, talk shows it, and so do the latest rankings in the Yahoo Buzz Index. Nintendo's next-gen console ranked as the number 2 Top Tech Mover, bested only by Microsoft's Zune.
PlayStation 3 came in at #3, #4, and #7. This is due to variations in how people are searching for Sony's console Xbox 360 trailed the pack with the 10th spot.
The full list of movers and shakers in the tech category is as follows:
1. Zune: +880%
2. Nintendo Wii: +205%
3. Playstation 3: +145%
4. PS3: +133%
5. Nintendo: +112%
6. MP3 players: +94%
7. Play Station 3: +86%
8. iPod Nano: +71%
9. Xbox: +54%
10. Xbox 360: +49%
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November 25th, 2006, 21:18 Posted By: wraggster
"While the new controller on the Wii is proving to be a success, it's turning out to be more effort than some die-hard couch potatoes bargained for. The Wall Street Journal reports on the newest workout regime for nerds."
From the article: "In Rochester, Minn., Jeremy Scherer and his wife spent three hours playing tennis and bowling, two of the games included with the Wii. Mr. Scherer says he managed to improve his scores — at the cost of shoulders and back that were still aching the next day. 'I was using muscles I hadn't used in a while,' says Mr. Scherer, a computer programmer who describes himself as 'not very active.' Mr. Scherer is vowing nightly 'Wii workouts' to get in better shape."
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November 25th, 2006, 21:37 Posted By: wraggster
Via the Washington Post
There was a showdown between the Nintendo Wii and the Sony PlayStation 3 at The Post's game testing lab last weekend.
Here's how it went down: I invited a bunch of my friends, five guys and three gals, over to check out the new systems. Few of them play or care about video games, but they were all curious to see the PlayStation 3, the cutting-edge game console that sparked real-world mayhem on its release Friday.
The Nintendo Wii system controls use motion-detecting technology. In a tennis game, the wireless control can be swung like a racket. (By Shizuo Kambayashi -- Associated Press)
By comparison, most of my friends arrived having heard little about Nintendo's new system. But, as it turned out, that device was the hit of the party.
Here's the deal with Nintendo's Wii system, in case you missed it. The system's controls contain motion-detecting technology. In some games, you don't have to punch any buttons to play. In a tennis game, for example, you swing the wireless controller like a racket. When you hit a ball in the game, the controller shudders as if you'd hit a real ball. The controllers also contain speakers that make a satisfying "thwok" whenever you connect.
It's the same for the bowling, baseball and boxing games designed for the system. Players in all those games use motions with their hands, arms and wrists that roughly replicate the movements you'd make in the real world.
The graphics on the Wii aren't the system's strong suit, however. One of my friends, who liked the system, summed up its games' looks as "cheesy."
Speaking of graphics, I gave the PS3 an unfair advantage in this department. You could have called it a fixed fight if my friends had fallen for the new PlayStation over the Wii because the $600 Sony system was running on a new $4,500, 50-inch plasma TV set from Pioneer, borrowed from the company just for this test. The $250 Nintendo, meanwhile, was running on an old tube set half the size of the plasma screen.
It was that tube set that got most of the traffic. While the people in my group preferred looking at the PS3's games, they preferred playing the Wii.
My friends played the Wii's sports games against each other all weekend, using goofy, cartoony avatars called "Miis" that they constructed to represent themselves in the game. Give a couple of newlyweds a pair of Wii controllers, pop in the boxing game and the entertainment value is priceless. We started out playing the game sitting down, but eventually we took to our feet to get a better range of motion with the controllers.
I have never seen a bunch of non-gamers get into this stuff like this, and I have never heard anybody laugh so much while playing any video game. A few of them now say they plan to buy the system for themselves.
My friend Andy has always seemed to dislike video games, but he was immediately taken by the Nintendo system in a way that I -- and he -- did not expect. "I'm surprised by how much I like it," he said. "The controller is so intuitive."
A few minutes later, he was cursing the PS3. Most of my friends who picked up the PS3's controller ended up frustrated. The typical game for the system requires players to have memorized where all the buttons are, and it's much harder to just pick up a controller and have a good time. Some of the verdicts they offered are unprintable.
My friend Jon, a technophile who likes racing games, reached first for the PS3 and wrestled with the menus and controls for the driving game Ridge Racer. Eventually, we played some races on the system and enjoyed some crisp and realistic-looking racetrack scenarios. But, for a while, he gave up on that and watched Andy and me fall over the furniture as we boxed each other on the Nintendo system. "I'm having more fun just watching you guys play that," he said.
Jon gave the PS3 a thumbs up in at least one area. He was eventually impressed with the quality of the Blu-ray movie format when we watched "Talladega Nights," the movie that Sony is including with the first shipments of the PS3.
The Nintendo Wii system controls use motion-detecting technology. In a tennis game, the wireless control can be swung like a racket. (By Shizuo Kambayashi -- Associated Press)
Game developers say the PS3 is so powerful that they haven't exploited the system's full potential. I have no idea what the system is capable of, but I can testify that you have to be pretty sharp-eyed to tell much of a difference between the first batch of PS3 games and Xbox 360 versions of the same titles.
When it comes to accessing all of the multimedia features that Sony is promoting with its console . . . well, I still prefer the Xbox 360's approach.
With the Xbox 360, a Microsoft product, using the interface and getting online has been easy and almost as intuitive as using an iPod. Trying to get online with the PS3, on the other hand, was a vale of tears because I didn't have a USB-compatible keyboard to plug into the console, and using the game controller to enter my user information was a tedious process that I gave up on twice.
Imagine filling out a mortgage application on a cellphone. It's something like that.
So I headed out of town for Thanksgiving to spend some time with my girlfriend's family. Just to be safe, I locked away the expensive and hard-to-find PS3 in an undisclosed location, where it is being guarded by ninjas and feral dogs. The thing has some features I look forward to exploring some more, but that can wait.
The Wii, on the other hand, rode shotgun with me for some show-and-tell action because Nintendo got one feature right with the system on Day One:
It's just darn fun.
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November 25th, 2006, 22:17 Posted By: wraggster
Our very good friend GPF has posted a screenshot of the Links Web Browser working in DS Linux, heres a screenshot:
Heres last nights newspost:
Hi, I finally made some progress with getting graphics enabled in links browser under dslinux and wanted to share it before I went to bed.
links -g -dither-images 1 -display-optimize 1 -html-image-scale 50 www.google.com
My port of gpm to dslinux still needs some work in libgpm, so the mouse isn't working yet. And there are alot of graphicaly problems with fonts, but the graphics show up great if they fit the screen size
Troy(GPF)
Heres todays update:
I have made more progress this evening and have got the mouse working in links now, with some updates to libgpm
so far this seems to be the best way to start it
links -g -dither-images 1 -display-optimize 1 -html-image-scale 90 -menu-font-size 8 -aspect-on 1 -dither-letters 1 -html-user-font-size 8 www.google.com
It's working pretty good so far, still some problems with screen not refreshing and some font problems in the menus and occasionally in the screen.
The good thing is if you don't specifigy -g when starting links, it works as before except if GPM is running, you can use the text console mouse
Troy(GPF)
Full information at GPFs Site on our Network here --> http://gpf.dcemu.co.uk
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November 26th, 2006, 22:58 Posted By: wraggster
New from Divineo UK
Overview of the product
Now you can create your own Game Cartridges!
Includes 30 mini-games on the supplied Contruction Kit CD or download from the hundreds of homebrew games available on-line.
Simply drag'n'drop games onto the Construction Kit cartridge then plug'n'play!
Specifications & extra information
The Construction Kit cartridge is no bigger than a stabdard cartridge but it has enough room for up to 30 games at a time. You can change the games as many times as you like - so you will never tire of it!
Cartridge Contruction Kit has a 128MB of memory, which can easily be expanded up to 2GB.Pack Includes
128MB Game Cartridge
Game Content CD
USB 2.0 Reader/Writer
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November 26th, 2006, 23:01 Posted By: wraggster
New from Divineo UK
Overview of the product
Turns your DS/DS Lite into a full function MP3 Player - you can even watch movies.
Simply Drag'n'Drop MP3 tracks onto the Max Music Player.
Listen to your favourite tracks on the move in glorious MP3 quality, accepts micro SD Cards up to 4 Gigabytes.(available seperately)
You can even watch movies on your DS - includes movie transfer program - its so Easy!
Max Music Cartrdige is the same size as a regular DS cartridge, which fits perfectly into your DS/DS Lite!
Specifications & extra information
Pack Includes
Max Music Cartridge
Ear Phones
Movie Convertor CD
High Speed USB 2.0
Mirco SD Reader
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November 26th, 2006, 23:02 Posted By: wraggster
New from Divineo UK
Overview of the product
Convert your DS DS Lite into a full function portable Media Player.
Play Movies, Music Photos and Games.
1 Gigabyte of built-in Memory means enough storage space for hours of movies, over 250 songs or thousands of photos!
Just snap in the cartridge and play!
Easy Drag'n'Drop feature means moving media to your cartridge is so simple!
Full touch screen controls - just double click on the file you want to play.
Specifications & extra information
Just snap in the cartridge and play!
Easy Drag'n'Drop feature means moving media to your cartridge is so simple!
Full touch screen controls - just double click on the file you want to play.Pack Includes
PMP Player Cartridge
PMP Media Manager CD
1 GB Media Storage Pack
HeadPhones
USB2.0 Cable
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November 26th, 2006, 23:16 Posted By: wraggster
Via Kotaku
Are your Mii's lonely? Do they need some other company to hang out with? Some stranger who randomly wanders over from another Wii for a cheap one night stand? Well, this may be the answer to your prayers.
Mii Pages is ostensibly a site set up so you can pick up other peoples Wii player codes and find someone with similar games to play online multiplayer with. It also, however, opens the doors of your Wii to all kinds of unwanted emails and invasion by other people's Miis. I can't help but think that eventually someone will create some kind of hack that will create evil Mii's that run around, eat your hard drive and serial murder all your existing Mii's. Terrifying...
More Info
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November 26th, 2006, 23:23 Posted By: wraggster
Because turnabout is fair play, recently we showed Punch Jumps's video of their PS3 with busted disc feeder and now we present to you the vomiting Wii.
Loading mechanisms have become a little bit of a personal issue since my 8 month-old Xbox 360's loading tray busted and Microsoft wants to charge $139 (plus having to provide own box and paying shipping) to fix it. Stupid thing is less than a year old. Microsoft apparently doesn't have authorized repair centers around the country like Nintendo does. All busted Xbox 360s in the U.S. must be sent to Texas, where they are miraculously healed and sent back again. What's wrong with the PS2 redesign where the top just pops up, you place the disc in the system, close it up and no easily defective loading mechanism gets in the way?
Video Here --> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYu6zBQGRNQ&eurl=
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November 26th, 2006, 23:33 Posted By: Dee-Lite
Smashbros.com updated today with some screenshots as well as a movie from the upcoming game Super Smash Bros. Brawl.
The movie reveals that Fox McCloud will return to the game along with his Starfox Command DS looks. Mr. Masahiro Sakurai also states that he's still hard at work on the game.
Check out the screens at the official site here.
Fox was pretty much a no-brainer, though I hope they do add Falco back into the mix as he was my favorite to use.
see video at www.nintendogal.com
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November 27th, 2006, 00:03 Posted By: wraggster
Lick posted this news/release:
I've been building an iPod-look-a-like music player for the DS. I have implemented the ClickWheel(TM) completely, and now I'll be working on the menu, and then I'll add playback of the MP3 and OGG formats.
I know that Apple won't like this. I'm thinking of making the player -skinnable- and use a different default skin. Also, I could release it with a message like: "If you like this software, buy an iPod! We LOVE APPLE!"
(wip-build, showcases the ClickWheel implementation)
It still runs on emulators right now, but will not later.
- Use touchscreen to control the ClickWheel.
- Press X to reset to bootmenu.
Enjoy, you almost have an iPod
- Lick
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November 27th, 2006, 00:08 Posted By: wraggster
Infantile Paralysiser have posted a new release of his image viewer for the Nintendo DS:
The user interface was changed a little.
Addition of English manual by my poor translation.
'PNG image with alpha channel' can be correctly converted.
Corresponded to EZ4/DSLink. I wish to express my deep gratitude to Rudolph.
'The cartridge of enhancing the memory of DS browser' can be used for the cache memory.
Imgview verifies the disk writing. Auto-retries when abnormality is detected.
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November 27th, 2006, 17:07 Posted By: wraggster
Playing Wii adds up to fairly intense exertion? "If people are finding themselves sore, they may need to exercise more," says Nintendo
12 Comments"It's harder than playing basketball," says a 12-year-old American girl after a session on the Wii in a Wall Street Journal report.
Jeremy Scherer and his wife spent three hours playing Wii Sports: "I was using muscles I hadn't used in a while," said Scherer, who describes himself as "not very active." He's now vowing nightly "Wii workouts" to get in better shape.
Nintendo's Perrin Kaplan has no sympathy though, saying, "It was not meant to be a Jenny Craig supplement (a firm that offers weight management programs). If people are finding themselves sore, they may need to exercise more."
Customs broker Ryan Mercer (who lifts weights the article points out) is also finding it heavy going, "I was soaking wet with sweat, head to toe -- I had to go take a shower." The next morning he had trouble putting his shirt on...
How are you finding the Wii experience? Let us know below.
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November 27th, 2006, 17:14 Posted By: wraggster
via engadget
While we initially felt Wal-Mart was being a bit old fashioned by not allowing Wii demo kiosks to be setup in stores due to "safety concerns," Walton and friends apparently had a good bit of foresight that we weren't aware of. After numerous reports of television sets getting the axe, and an innocently bystanding HP iPAQ getting all cracked up, we're wondering if folks aren't just staging their own Wiincidents at this point. Apparently warning everyone of how jeopardous these free-flying Wiimotes can be wasn't really taken to heart, as now a butterfingered gamer has quite an interesting tale to tell to the presumably skeptical insurance adjuster. While busting a few moves in Wii Sports, the nonsensical user let the controller fly, but instead of landing softly (and harmlessly) on the couch, it rocketed straight through his window, leaving a fairly dangerous scene as proof of gaming negligence. C'mon folks, we've warned you all enough by now, either strap on that thoughtfully included wrist strap, grab some sticky gloves, or tape up the windows -- your property, your call.
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November 27th, 2006, 17:18 Posted By: wraggster
Rising Star Games has revealed that it's to publish another Bubble Bobble game for the Nintendo DS in Q1 2007.
Bubble Bobble Double Shot (see what they did) introduces a third platform-hopping bubble-popping character called Bubu to the traditional duo of Bub and Bob, and promises "a respectful return to the series' roots".
That means we're getting the "essence" of Bubble Bobble platforming with "a smattering of non-intrusive additions". Like Bubu.
So for example, you'll still find yourself platforming through compact levels brimming with secrets, spread across two screens, but now you'll also be using the right shoulder button to switch between Bub, Bob and Bubu, because certain enemies can only be taken down by certain characters.
This system is based on colours - and there will also be a new star bubble that lets you change the colour of enemies on-screen so your selected character can tackle them all.
What's more, Rising Star says the "continue" mechanic has been changed so that you're now asked to complete touch-based mini-games when you perish in order to carry on playing - like solving a puzzle, or tapping the screen quickly so escape from a rampaging monster.
On top of the single-player antics, which amount to 100 levels, there will also be co-operative multiplayer for up to three people.
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November 27th, 2006, 18:46 Posted By: wraggster
When people line for Wii pre-orders, chances are it will be a success. And when stores start putting up signs offering to purchase those consoles at prices slightly higher than retail, you know in your heart of hearts that the new console is going to flatten and destroy Japan. The Nintendo-centric Super Potato in Den-Den Town has put up notice that it will purchase "used" Wiis for 1,000 yen above the 25,000 fixed sticker price. Not expecting Yahoo! Auction craziness, but rather, consoles snapped up fast and sequestered away to people's homes for the upcoming New Year's holidays.
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November 27th, 2006, 18:48 Posted By: wraggster
Via Newyorker
Fifteen years ago, the video-game industry was ruled by one player, Nintendo. The company had machines in a third of American homes, and it was Japan’s most profitable electronics company. The title of a 1993 book summed up the situation: “Game Over: How Nintendo Conquered the World.” Then the Sony PlayStation arrived, and everything changed. Today, Sony is the dominant force, and its chief rival is not Nintendo but Microsoft, which makes the Xbox. Two weeks ago, the début of Sony’s PlayStation 3 was greeted by crowds of hysterical consumers anxious to get their hands on the new console, billed as the most powerful gaming machine ever. When Nintendo’s new console, the oddly named Wii, appeared, a few days later, there were excellent reviews and expectations of good sales, but no more talk about world conquest. If Sony and Microsoft are the major-party nominees, Nintendo is more like a cool third-party candidate.
You might expect, then, that Nintendo would be struggling to stay afloat. After all, the prevailing wisdom is that companies need to be market leaders, or face disaster. This approach was famously institutionalized by Jack Welch, who, when he took over as C.E.O. of G.E., laid down a rule that he described as a “central idea” of his tenure: the company would quit any business in which it was not No. 1 or No. 2. The lesson that people took away from this was clear—third place is for losers. “First prize is a Cadillac Eldorado,” Alec Baldwin’s character says in the film “Glengarry Glen Ross.” “Second prize is a set of steak knives. Third prize is you’re fired.” Nintendo, though, has not just survived out of the spotlight; it has thrived. It has five billion dollars in the bank from years of solid profits, and this past year, though it spent heavily on the launch of the Wii, it made close to a billion dollars in profit and saw its stock price rise by sixty-five per cent. Sony’s game division, by contrast, barely eked out a profit and Microsoft’s reportedly lost money. Who knew bringing up the rear could be so lucrative?
Sony and Microsoft are desperate to be the biggest players in a market that, in their vision, will encompass not just video games but “interactive entertainment” generally. That’s why the PlayStation 3 and the Xbox 360 are all-in-one machines, which allow users not just to play video games but also to do things like watch high-definition DVDs and stream digital music. Sony and Microsoft’s quest to “control the living room” has locked them in a classic arms race; they have invested billions of dollars in an attempt to surpass each other technologically, building ever-bigger, ever-better, and ever-more-expensive machines.
Nintendo has dropped out of this race. The Wii has few bells and whistles and much less processing power than its “competitors,” and it features less impressive graphics. It’s really well suited for just one thing: playing games. But this turns out to be an asset. The Wii’s simplicity means that Nintendo can make money selling consoles, while Sony is reportedly losing more than two hundred and forty dollars on each PlayStation 3 it sells—even though they are selling for almost six hundred dollars. Similarly, because Nintendo is not trying to rule the entire industry, it’s been able to focus on its core competence, which is making entertaining, innovative games. For instance, the Wii features a motion sensor that allows you to, say, hit a tennis ball onscreen by swinging the controller like a tennis racquet. Nintendo’s handheld device, the DS, became astoundingly popular because of simple but brilliant games like Nintendogs, in which users raise virtual puppies. And because Nintendo sells many more of its own games than Sony and Microsoft do, its profit margins are higher, too. Arguably, Nintendo has thrived not despite its fall from the top but because of it.
Nintendo’s success is not an anomaly, either. The business landscape of the past couple of decades is replete with companies that have flourished as third wheels, and with companies that have struggled to make money despite being No. 1 in their industries. (Today, would you rather be Honda or G.M.?) And while it’s true that in many industries there is a correlation between market share and profitability, one doesn’t necessarily lead to the other. A recent survey of the evidence on market share by J. Scott Armstrong and Kesten C. Green found that companies that adopt what they call “competitor-oriented objectives” actually end up hurting their own profitability. In other words, the more a company focusses on beating its competitors, rather than on the bottom line, the worse it is likely to do. And a study of the performance of twenty major American companies over four decades found that the ones putting more emphasis on market share than on profit ended up with lower returns on investment; of the six companies that defined their goal exclusively as market share, four eventually went out of business.
The point is that business is not a sporting event. Victory for one company doesn’t mean defeat for everyone else. Markets today are so big—the global video-game market is now close to thirty billion dollars—that companies can profit even when they’re not on top, as long as they aren’t desperately trying to get there. The key is to play to your strengths while recognizing your limitations. Nintendo knew that it could not compete with Microsoft and Sony in the quest to build the ultimate home-entertainment device. So it decided, with the Wii, to play a different game entirely. Some pundits are now speculating, ironically, that the simplicity of the Wii may make it a huge hit. Nintendo wouldn’t complain if that happened. But, in the meantime, third prize is looking a lot better than steak knives.
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November 27th, 2006, 18:53 Posted By: wraggster
Today's top slot on the hottest gaming video charts is occupied by the vomiting Wii that we showed you earlier (we're convinced it's another new Nintendo game innovation called Chase the Disc, making the gamer get even more active), so we're moving down to number two -- a way to hack your Wii and surf the web before the browser comes out.
The Wii won't officially have it's Opera 9 browser until later, but clever individuals have figured out how to "hack" the settings on the Shop Channel (which is basically a stripped-down browser), and venture out onto the web. It's not the prettiest solution, but it'll get you surfing until the real thing finally drops.
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November 27th, 2006, 18:57 Posted By: wraggster
A new Gamecube Game release that also plays on the Nintendo Wii:
Heres the details:
Sonic Riders (Player's Choice)
features
All-new air board racing. New blend of snowboarding, surfing and high-speed racing combat.
Innovative “Turbulence” air-system. Catch the drift of your opponents and leave them in your wake!
Insane tricks. The more difficult trick you pull off, the more points you get!
4-Player Ultimate Battle. New rival group, the Babylon Rogues sets the stage for scorching head-to-head multi-player battles up to 4 players.
Over 13 outrageous tracks, plus multiple modes, and tons of bonus unlockables.
Collect and customize your Extreme Gear with over 40 unique types of equipment to choose from, as well as equipment upgrades.
Unravel the mystery in Story Mode. You’ll play as two opposing teams, complete with cut-scenes.
description
Dr. Eggman has thrown down the gauntlet, calling out Sonic and friends to join his World Grand Prix. But, just what is the egg-shaped genius really planning? And who are the legendary riders known as the Babylon Rouges that beat Sonic to the signup? At unparalleled breakneck speeds, you’ll catch the turbulence air stream of your board-bound opponents and blaze past them while busting out wild stunts and tricks. Take full advantage of your characters’ talents in Speed, Power, or Flight and challenge up to three friends to find out who really is the fastest rider in the world!
More info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1pzo.html
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November 27th, 2006, 18:57 Posted By: wraggster
A new Gamecube Game release that also plays on the Nintendo Wii:
Heres the details:
Sonic Riders (Player's Choice)
features
All-new air board racing. New blend of snowboarding, surfing and high-speed racing combat.
Innovative “Turbulence” air-system. Catch the drift of your opponents and leave them in your wake!
Insane tricks. The more difficult trick you pull off, the more points you get!
4-Player Ultimate Battle. New rival group, the Babylon Rogues sets the stage for scorching head-to-head multi-player battles up to 4 players.
Over 13 outrageous tracks, plus multiple modes, and tons of bonus unlockables.
Collect and customize your Extreme Gear with over 40 unique types of equipment to choose from, as well as equipment upgrades.
Unravel the mystery in Story Mode. You’ll play as two opposing teams, complete with cut-scenes.
description
Dr. Eggman has thrown down the gauntlet, calling out Sonic and friends to join his World Grand Prix. But, just what is the egg-shaped genius really planning? And who are the legendary riders known as the Babylon Rouges that beat Sonic to the signup? At unparalleled breakneck speeds, you’ll catch the turbulence air stream of your board-bound opponents and blaze past them while busting out wild stunts and tricks. Take full advantage of your characters’ talents in Speed, Power, or Flight and challenge up to three friends to find out who really is the fastest rider in the world!
More info / buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1pzo.html
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November 27th, 2006, 19:01 Posted By: wraggster
New From Play Asia:
features
Bluetooth Wii Remote Control
Maximum controller connections: 4
Operating distance: 5 meter
Size: 148mm (L) x 36.2mm (W) x 30.8mm (D)
Pointer: Pointing function
Motion sensor function
Oscillating function
Buttons: A, B, - (Minus), + (Plus), Home, 1 and 2
Extension unit connectable
Speaker
Player indicator
Buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1q85.html
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November 27th, 2006, 23:33 Posted By: wraggster
Taito's bubble-blowing dinosaurs, Bub and Bob, have spent much of their recent gaming years as characters in the popular Bust-A-Move puzzle series. However, Rising Star Games is bringing them back to their roots--as the main characters in a new Bubble Bobble platformer.
The European game publisher, a subsidiary of Japan's Marvelous Interactive, has announced that it will release Bubble Bobble Double Shot for the DS in early 2007. A North American release date has yet to be confirmed.
The new game will feature a third character, Babu, and players will need to switch between the three cuter-than-thou reptiles to defeat enemies. The single-player campaign will feature more than 100 levels and cooperative multiplayer modes supporting up to three participants.
Bub and Bob have platformed on the DS before. Taito's Bubble Bobble Revolution was released in October, but was met with abysmal reviews.
No price or rating has been announced for the game.
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November 27th, 2006, 23:50 Posted By: wraggster
RyanB has posted a new releaseof his excellent Genesis Emulator for the Nintendo DS, heres whats new:
Added Max Media Dock FAT support (thanks chishm/Bonic)
Added EZ4 FAT support (thanks cory1492/Rudolph)
Reduced memory usage, 3MB ROMs should work again
Added EXPERIMENTAL support for using the additional RAM on SuperCard SD carts to load ROMs larger than 3MB. This comes with the standard warning that this feature may cause file corruption on your SD card. The SCSD may also keep the Genesis ROM in GBA ROM space after a reboot, causing PicoDriveDS to see it as an appended ROM and crash on startup - to fix this issue simply power down, take the SCSD out, and wait a few seconds.
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November 27th, 2006, 23:58 Posted By: wraggster
Via Dsfanboy
Fantasy author Darren Reid will be offering a free e-library, filled with short stories, novellas, and even novels optimized for use with console browsers for the DS, the Wii, and Sony's PS3. Of course, since the U.S. is painfully without a DS browser as yet, we'll be limited on this feature to our Wii browsers. In Europe, however, Ninty fans will be able to wield the power of the written word on the DS for portable reading.
We'd love to see this become a regular thing -- with dozens of authors and leaning virtual towers of books available for perusal from the comfort of the sofa, or on the go with the DS.
More Info
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November 28th, 2006, 00:01 Posted By: wraggster
Via DSfanboy
ZOO Digital, responsible for publishing past DS titles such as Sudokumaniacs and Snood 2: On Vacation, are at it again and look to bring their newest game, Lionel Trains on Track, to the DS. The game focuses on building a train empire from the ground up, asking the player to build virtual cities and fill it with glorious mass transportation. Players will also be able to research into new properties, allowing them larger and more impressive structures as their city grows.
Some of the game's other features include:
Cargo Chains: by taking your train to multiple towns and improving its cargo hold, you can gather each town's specific goods and sell it for a profit at a town in need
The game will feature 3 modes of play: Campaign, Freeplay, and Sandbox
You'll eventually unlock new trains and structures through the game by research
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November 28th, 2006, 00:16 Posted By: wraggster
Heres the info:
The Nintendo DS hardware offers a variety of possibilities for creating music as well as interacting with music. TheRain first had the idea of using the DS as a MIDI controller and created the DSMIDI, a DS cartridge that added a standard MIDI port to the DS that could be used by homebrew DS software.
But since making a DSMIDI requires soldering skills and is rather dangerous, we came up with another idea: Using the DS as a wireless MIDI controller. The MIDI signals are sent to the computer via Wifi, and a server program forwards them to MIDI applications.
So what is DSMIDIWifi exactly?
DSMIDIWifi consists of
libmidiwifi
An open source library for DS homebrew development that makes it easy to write DS software that acts as a MIDI controller.
DSMIDIWiFi Server
An application that runs on the computer and forwards the MIDI messages received via Wifi to MIDI applications.
More details --> http://dsmidiwifi.tobw.net/
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November 28th, 2006, 00:21 Posted By: wraggster
News/release from Shortfuse:
DS-X Manager
The point of this problem is to facilitate the use of your DS-X. This allows you to trim roms (to save more space) when copying to the DS-X. It's meant to be like a syncing application, as you would use iTunes/Winamp for your MP3 player.
Supports Zip files
Asynchronous Transfers
Just download it and try it. It's less than 100KB.
Notes on colors in DS-X window.
Green = Trimmed to smallest, safest size possible
Yellow = Can be trimmed more
Red = Overtrimmed
*REQUIRES .NET FRAMEWORK 2.0
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November 28th, 2006, 03:46 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via tgdaily
Redmond (WA) - In plain shipment numbers, Nintendo's Wii can claim to have had the most successful launch week. The manufacturer today said that more than 600,000 consoles were sold in the first eight days after launch, generating sales of more than $190 million. Meanwhile, Ebay is experiencing brisk PS3 and Wii activity with sale prices having settled around $1200 and $400, respectively.
Shipments of the $250 Nintendo Wii outpaced sales of the Xbox 360, which sold about 400,000 units during its launch week in November of last year, by more than 50% and Sony's Playstation 3, according to early estimates, by about 100%. Just like the Xbox 360 and the PS3, the Wii created a buying frenzy and sold out in a matter of minutes when it was launched on November 19. Including first-party software and accessory sales, the console has brought in revenues of about $190 million in the U.S. alone, Nintendo said.
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess has become the most successful Wii game so far, selling about 454,000 units.
Website NexGenWars, which tracks sales of game consoles, corrected early estimates of more than 600,000 Wii's sold on launch day. The site currently estimates Wii sales at about 561,000, PS3 sales at 316,000 and Xbox 360 sales (since November 2005) at about 7.6 million.
Ebay released its traditional Black Friday sales numbers, which included sales of next-generation game consoles and highlighted the frenzy around the Playstation 3 and Wii. The online auction house said that 14,765 PS3s were sold between November 17 and November 24 for an average price of $1186.39. Including pre-sales, which started on October 17, 28,233 PS3s changed hands through Ebay with an average price of $1369.90. At the time of this writing, 60 GB PS3s are selling at a pace of about $1000.
Nintendo Wii sales were more frequent in the consoles first week between November 19 and November 24. According to Ebay, 26,708 Wiis were sold for an average price of $412.53. Including pre-sales, which began on October 19, 29,451 Wiis were sold for an average of $427.82. Activity for Microsoft's Xbox 360, which is available in most electronics stores at any time, was dramatically less: Between November 12 and November 24, 331 Xbox 360 units were sold on Ebay. The average price was $420.62, according to the auction site.
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November 28th, 2006, 03:56 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via blogcritics
A strange mix of EA Sports Big SSX series and long forgotten ESPN Extreme Games on the PS1, Tony Hawk's Downhill Jam is a complete departure for Activision's franchise. This new spin on the game is a fantastic run that feels fresh, unique and different enough to make it a worthy addition to Tony Hawks's paycheck. Activision has crafted a winner.
Instead of a focus on absurd goals and tricks, Downhill Jam is a racing title. The superb sense of speed across a rapidly changing level design is the addictive hook that keeps you playing. The basic trick system is in place, and occasionally crucial depending on the style of the race.
The single player game is about advancing through different tiers of challenges, earning new boards to increase stats and gaining new medals to level up. Challenges vary from races, to destructive runs, to knocking over as many pedestrians as possible. Each proves different enough to make them feel separate even when barreling down a familiar track.
Controls are tailor made for the Wii. The remote is held sideways, and turning it logically turns your skater. Tricks are performed with the 1 and 2 buttons, while a special trick can be activated with the A button when a meter has been filled. There is also a boost available that fills as you trick. Shaking the remote activates it, though it has a tough time registering and it's difficult to turn and tip at the same time.
Downhill Jam is geared for a younger audience. It's nearly impossible to wipe out when landing. Randomly pressing buttons can get you through the early races as long as you pay attention to the turns. Damage is dealt by other riders who can knock you over or by hitting stationary objects that are unbreakable. Getting reset requires a rapid shaking of the controller.
Levels are crammed with shortcuts, and in later runs, you'll need to know the position of each to make it through. Exploration is a heavy risk however. Going even slightly off course can result in race altering disorientation, and it's far too difficult to recover after hitting a wall. You're better off wiping out since resetting on the track requires a press of the - button which is deep on the remote and hard to hit without losing precious seconds.
With a wicked sense of humor that makes pre-race interviews worth watching, Downhill Jam is rarely off. The stylized character design properly sets the tone, while the real life skate videos that occasionally play don't seem to mesh well. It's still inviting as the outrageous and colorful levels keep you playing to try and find any missed areas that could lead to more shortcuts (and higher medals).
Multi-player is split screen only unfortunately, as it's set up perfectly for some Wi-Fi action. Four players can play in any of the single player race modes along with two additional choices. On bases the winner on how long they were in first place, and the other knocks out racers at certain points if they're in last. There's nothing radical or innovative, though the game's simplistic combat engine can lead to fun times in tight contests.
If you're expecting to show off your skills in Tony Hawk's standard style, you're going to be disappointed. Downhill Jam puts everyone on equal footing, ignoring the countless and arguably convoluted changes the core Tony Hawk games have endured over the years. It's a nicely designed and welcome departure, at least until it's milked in what will undoubtedly years of sequels.
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November 28th, 2006, 03:58 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via cubed3
Darren Reid, author of the best selling Fantasy/Science Fiction fusion novel The Lord of Darkness and Shadow: The Chronicles of the Shadow Book One, today announces the release of a free ebook library for Nintendo Wii, DS and Sony PS3. The free ebook library contains a collection of short stories, novels and novellas which have been optimized for use with the browsers in the Nintendo Wii and DS. The first title released is The Genesis of the Shadow, a prequel novella to the best selling novel The Lord of Darkness and Shadow which is out now.
Over the coming months a number of titles will be lanuched including Two Wizards: A Chronicles of the Shadow Prequel, Xevicom Forever (a graphic novel) and an unnamed special project (TBA). These titles and others will be launched through Q4 2006 and 2007.
Darren Reid is the author of the bestselling fantasy series The Chronicles of the Shadow which has gained an international following and rave reviews from readers the world over. The story Cell was adapted into an audiobook (available on iTunes) by Parsec award winning podcast producers Variant Frequencies and the anticipated follow up to The Lord of Darkness and Shadow is due out February 2007.
Commenting on the release of Wii, DS and PS3 enhanced versions of the free ebook library Darren said "I am delighted to share my free stories and allow next-gen console owners the chance to read them as well"
The Genesis of the Shadow: The Chronicles of the Shadow Book Zero is out Monday 27th of November.
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November 28th, 2006, 03:59 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via newsfactor
Although there's much talk about the game console wars between Nintendo's Wii, Microsoft's Xbox 360, and Sony's Playstation 3, the Wii actually appeals to a somewhat different audience. Nintendo's Wii costs about half as much as the PS3 and the Xbox. And the Wii is geared more toward kids and new users, rather than hardcore gamers.
es, it was a good weekend for the Wii, though not so joyous for some shoppers. Reports from around the U.S. indicate that Nintendo's new game console, which competes with Microsoft's Xbox 360 and Sony Relevant Products/Services's PlayStation 3, sold out quickly. Many would-be buyers went home empty-handed, in spite of braving long lines and cold weather to purchase the much coveted game console.
Leading retailer Toys 'R Us declined to comment on the specifics of Wii sales as a matter of policy, but company spokesman Bob Friedland noted that Nintendo's new console is moving briskly. "The Wii is a hot seller at Toys 'R Us," he said.
"We'll be receiving shipments for the Wii throughout the season and expect to have them throughout the holiday," said Friedland.
A Sony Shortage
With so much demand and a gift-giving season upon us, choosing and then actually finding the right console can be tough.
Most experts believe Sony's PlayStation 3, with its bleeding-edge graphics and a built-in Blue-ray DVD drive, dominates the console market. But a production snag has led the Japanese firm to cut U.S. shipments by hundreds of thousands of units, leaving a steep shortage of PS3 units.
Microsoft's Xbox 360 could benefit from Sony's bad luck, since the Xbox vies with the PlayStation for the best graphics and sleekest effects. However, a recent snag with the Xbox 360 Live service hampered sales over the long Thanksgiving weekend. Apparently, many users who tried to download games, movies, and TV shows ran into extra-long or failed downloads.
A Different Kind of Console
Nintendo's Wii is looking better and better to plenty of gamers who don't live and die by Gears of War or Madden NFL.
In fact, the Wii is designed to reach a different market completely, one that warms to its modest price tag and balks at the price of the other, more expensive consoles. At $250, Nintendo's Wii is less than half the cost of Sony's PlayStation and Microsoft's Xbox. Its games are kid- and novice-friendly, geared more towards new users and not the hardcore-gamer crowd with overly muscular thumbs.
The Wii also has a few features the others don't, including the Wiimote, a motion-sensing remote control that lets users play games simply by waving their arms through the air. Just hold the Wiimote and pretend you're swinging a golf club or shooting a gun, and your on-screen character will do the same.
The bottom line? This season's gaming king is yet to be crowned -- but the battle for consumers' hearts and hands will certainly be every bit as fierce as a good round of Thrillville, Urban Chaos, or the brand-new Bully.
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November 28th, 2006, 04:02 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via ign
Two more PS2 titles make the Wii their port of call.
Australia, November 26, 2006 - Conspiracy Entertainment Europe is joining the flood of ports headed to Wii, with both Baja Mania and Baja Destruction headed to Nintendo's new console. Originally developed for the PS2, both titles will feature "an alternative control system, designed exclusively for the Wii platform, utilising the Wii remote's tilt detection to steer and control the vehicles' speed."
Baja Mania is the more realistic of the two titles, and is based upon the specialist racing series found in the Baja region of California, where four wheels is not the norm. Reflecting this is the game's inclusion of three dune buggies (four wheels), three "cats" (six wheels) and three trucks (eight wheels). Off road racing is the order of the day, and drivers must select their own route through the open levels, ensuring they hit certain checkpoints along the way.
Baja Destruction takes the soul of Mania, but combines it with a sci-fi setting reminiscent of Mad Max. Vehicles in Destruction bristle with high-powered weaponry, allowing victory to be gained by vaporising the opposition, and several of the courses take place in low-gravity environments.
Expect both titles to hit the Wii in the first quarter of 2007.
screen via comment
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November 28th, 2006, 04:03 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via ign
Australia, November 27, 2006 - Christmas came early for the IGN AU office this year. There wasn't a single jingling bell to be heard, and nary a fat, bearded man in sight, yet one of the greatest presents we could have ever scrawled at the top of our wish list arrived this morning.
IGN AU received its retail Australian Nintendo Wii.
Arriving in an unassuming carton, which once had the dubious honour of containing multiple copies of Brain Training, the appearance of the Wii was enough to send our resident Nintendaddict Patch Kolan into a fit of giggling, shaking and all-round girliness. Anyway, enough chatski, let's get on with the unpacking of the Australian Wii, so you can see what to expect come December 7.
great news for austalia's nintendo fans. They will be getting there hands on a nintendo wii soon
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November 28th, 2006, 05:35 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via cinemablend
It has been no surprise that the next generation of Brothers In Arms is nothing short of impressive. While it’s still a ways off from release, every gamer is probably questioning whether Brothers In Arms: Hell’s Highway is going to make its way to the Wii? Well, with the success of Call of Duty 3, another World War II shooter probably wouldn’t be a bad addition to Nintendo’s lineup.
Utilizing advanced physics (much like Midway’s Stranglehold), BIA: Hell’s Highway offers a whole new level of military combat and immersive warfare. So I contacted a representative at Gearbox to see if the developers had a little something cooking in the oven for the Nintendo Wii. Even though I hate to be a buzz-kill, the PR commented that... “Currently, Gearbox hasn't announced anything regarding Hell's Highway and the Wii,
Although, given that Ubisoft is a heavy third-party supporter for Wii that doesn’t mean there won’t be a Brothers In Arms for Nintendo’s new system. The representative from Gearbox continued on to say... “as you likely know, we will certainly be developing on the Wii platform (we just haven't really said what and when yet”
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November 28th, 2006, 17:14 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo shifts over 600,000 Wiis in North America, casting doubt over Microsoft's claims that 360 came out on top last weekend
Nintendo has divulged its launch week North American Wii sales numbers, revealing that its next-gen console has shifted over 600,000 units over the past week.
With just the sales of first party games and accessories taken into account, Wii became a $190m USD (£97.7m GBP) business in just one week.
Nintendo's first week Wii numbers almost doubled the amount of Xbox 360s Microsoft managed to shift during its entire launch month, although that obviously suffered from some severe shortages.
Microsoft website MSN previously claimed that retailers and analysts had confirmed that the Xbox 360 was "the hottest selling gaming console this past weekend" in North America, which - unless Nintendo managed to shift a significantly smaller chunk of its 600,000 sold units on its Sunday launch day - in hindsight might look like a pretty dubious claim to some.
Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime said of the sales figures: "Even with sales already in excess of 600,000 units, demand continues to exceed supply, as it's clear this is one of the 'gotta-have' products for the holiday season. We've shipped retailers several times the amount of hardware the other company was able to deliver for its launch around the same time -- and we still sold out. Given the inclusive nature of Wii game play, we're seeing this new form of video gaming is already a huge hit with gamers and newcomers alike. It continues to be a phenomenal launch."
Additionally, Nintendo's flagship Wii title Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess flew off North American shelves in the order of 454,000 units, meaning that over 75% of Wii owners picked up Link's latest adventure.
Sony is yet to announce its official US launch numbers for the PS3, though it is expected to experience a similar console shortage hit as the Xbox 360 last year.
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November 28th, 2006, 17:23 Posted By: wraggster
Divineo China posted this news concerning the G6Lite DS Flashcart:
The product is now under production , the manufacturer confirmed that it will be available around 7th Dec.
More info:
The G6 Lite *ENGLISH* is the flagship product from G6 Flash. It has internal memory and comes with 4G memory card (1G = 1 Giga bit = 1024 bit ). It supports both DS and GBA games but also includes emulators for playing FC, NES, SNES, GB, GBC, PCE, SEGA-MS & GG. The unit has a built in media player for playing the following formats:
- Dolby AC3 audio frequency file (*.AC3)
- target's file of DVD video (*.VOB)
- wave form sound file of Microsoft (*.WAV)
- MPEG-1 Audio Layer-2 file (*.MP2)
- MPEG-1 Audio Layer-3 file (*.MP3)
- Real media file (*.RA, *.RM, *.RAM, *.RMVB)
- MPEG-1 media file (*.Mpeg, *.Mpg)
- MPEG-2 media file (*.M2V)
- Windows media file (*.AVI, *.ASF, *.WMA, *.WMV)
- VCD video file (*.DAT)
- QuickTime media file (*.MOV)
- MPEG-4 media file (*.AVI)
- DivX media file (*.AVI)
The G6 Lite also has a built in PDA program with full english menus
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November 28th, 2006, 18:19 Posted By: Cap'n 1time
The very popular American comedian and satirist Stephen Colbert pulled out the Nintendo wii on one of my favorite segments of the show, The Threat Down.
Instead of Bears or Walmart this time, the number 1 threat was the Nintendo Wii. He claims it's too addicting. Colbert demonstrates the Wii Sports Boxing title by... well watch and see .
You can view the video on Comedy Centrals "Mother Load" here. (he shows off the Wii towards the end)
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November 28th, 2006, 21:29 Posted By: gunntims0103
news via gamespot
Gamestation, HMV, and Game all announce their launch-night shenanigans.
The wait for a Wii is almost over for UK gamers. Eager British Nintendans had to watch the US launch of the console on November 19, and the Japanese launch will also pass them by on December 2. However, next Friday, December 8, Nintendo's next-gen console will finally hit the shelves across most of Europe.
That isn't soon enough for some, though--with preorders on Amazon UK selling out within minutes, and the Christmas season fast approaching, some dedicated gamers will no doubt be standing in front of the store waiting for the very second the console will be released. These hardcore fans will be relieved to know that the UK and Ireland won't be missing out on midnight launch fun. Today, three major British and Irish gaming retailers revealed their plans for the evening of December 7.
Game will be holding midnight events at its Oxford Street, London, and Dublin, Ireland, branches only. The two events will feature music, entertainment, competitions, free pizza, and demonstration Wii pods to play on. Game's marketing director, Anna Macario, said, "We are anticipating huge crowds of customers will come to our Oxford Street [and Dublin] store to get their hands on their Nintendo Wii at the first possible moment."
As far as UK-only events, Gamestation will be hosting parties at its Birmingham and Edinburgh stores. At the Birmingham New Street branch, local radio station Kerrang DJs will be spinning tracks, models will be serving food, and there will be competitions including a play-off in each of the store windows to win a Wii. There will also be a guest appearance by Nintendo icon "Mario"--either an impersonator or (more likely) a CG re-creation--via a satellite link with the US. Both events are expected to start at around 10 p.m. and finish up at around 2 a.m.
The main official Nintendo event is still under wraps, but the company has revealed to GameSpot that it will take place at the Oxford Street HMV store and will feature an appearance by an as-yet-unconfirmed Nintendo executive. "There'll be all kinds of exciting things going on," a spokesperson said.
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November 28th, 2006, 22:24 Posted By: wraggster
Earlier this month, the Wii was sent up on the popular cartoon South Park. Now, eight days after Nintendo's console went on sale in the US, another Comedy Central show is also using the platform to produce mass mirth.
Last night on the Colbert Report, increasingly influential satirist Stephen Colbert used the Wii to take a jab at a political opponent--literally. First, the console was named the number-one menace in the show's ongoing "Threatdown" segment, as Colbert called the "Wiiiiii! ... the most addicting video game (sic) of all time."
After taunting "nerds" seeking the hard-to-find console, the faux-conservative pundit--admitted and former Dungeons and Dragons player--engaged in a Wii Sports boxing match. His opponent? A Mii mock-up of the incoming Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi (D-California), whom he roundly pummeled on air with his own Mii avatar.
The Wii Colbert Report is currently viewable on
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November 28th, 2006, 22:25 Posted By: wraggster
Before the Wii arrived in stores last week, Nintendo said it would add new titles to its Virtual Console downloadable game service each Monday following the launch. Yesterday one new title arrived on the Virtual Console, the 1990 TurboGrafx-16 shooter Super Star Soldier.
A vertically scrolling sci-fi shoot-'em-up, Super Star Soldier is being offered for 600 Wii points ($6). Developed by Hudson, the game offers players a number of genre staples, including spread cannon, flame thrower, and electricity gun power-ups, as well as homing missiles and satellite ships to absorb stray enemy fire.
Super Star Soldier brings the number of Virtual Console games available to 15, with a total of 30 expected to be up on the service by the end of the year. The game is rated E for Everyone.
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November 28th, 2006, 22:30 Posted By: wraggster
Two new Genesis games -- Ecco the Dolphin and Golden Axe -- are now available for download at 800 Wii points each.
We can't be sure that these games didn't go up some time after Super Star Soldier late last night, but it seems that they actually hit sometime earlier today. Combined with last week's late launch of TurboGrafx-16 games on the Virtual Console, this makes two times that Nintendo has missed its stated goal to make "new Virtual Console games ... become available weekly every Monday. [Emphasis added]"
Is this a sign that we should now expect Virtual Console launches to come at any time throughout the week, or is Nintendo just running into some early technical glitches in its "Virtual Console Mondays" plan? You'll know the answer as soon as we do.
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November 28th, 2006, 22:34 Posted By: wraggster
The Nintendo Wii is the latest in a series of console systems to hit the market. While the graphics and processing power do not match the PS3 or Xbox 360, the Wii has attracted the interest of gamers due to its revolutionary controller design. By combining Bluetooth, infrared, and motion detection technology into a compact handheld remote, the Wii has complete changed the ways that gamers interact with their systems. Ironically, this paradigm shift in controllers was not for the hardcore gamer, but instead was meant to bring in the new user who traditionally has found the multi-button two-handed controller a bit overwhelming. In fact, my five year old daughter learned how to use the controller in only a few minutes and was soon happily, if not ecstatically, beating the computer in a boxing match. The Wii may finally bring console system gaming into the family oriented mainstream.
While the controller design is one of the key selling points for the Wii, there are other aspects and features that make it popular for neophyte gamers. For example, you can create a Mii and then have Mii parades with your friends online. Other online activities include updated news and weather services, as well as messaging, web surfing, image sharing and more. In addition to this, users of the Wii can download legacy games from the Wii store, as well as obtain updates that are promised to include DVD players and more. The point is that the Wii is an internet appliance as much as it is a console, which means it needs an internet connection to fully realize it's potential.
However, what if your Wii is nowhere near your network drop? Or your wireless network is on the other side of the house? Granted, the Wii does try to maximize its wireless connectivity via the integration of two antennas in its design, but even this won't overcome all obstacles. This is why we decided to provide an online tutorial to illustrate how you can upgrade your wireless presence via the use of a bigger and more powerful antenna. With this design, the question shifts from "How close to I have to be?" to "How far can I really go?"
The Wireless Network Card
The Wii comes with an embedded wireless network card from Broadcom. This card is an 802.11b/g card that can connect to most of the 802.11 wireless access points on the market. In addition to supporting the higher speed 802.11g speeds, the wireless card supports the most current encryption options, including WPA2 Personal with AES encryption. For those who are not versed in all the acronyms of the wireless world, WPA2 Personal is the best protection available for the home user. And thanks to an intelligent wireless configuration setup, most users will simply click a few buttons, enter the passphrase, and be online.
Full Article
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November 28th, 2006, 22:36 Posted By: wraggster
Via joystiq
That's right. And the DS Lite is set to be reborn as a kitchen aid-cum-refrigerator ornament. To coincide with NCL's latest edutainment venture -- which is in essence a sequel to Shaberu! Oryouri Navi* -- the DS Lite Magnet Stand (as in, a stand which contains a magnet, and can thereby stand attached to a fridge door) will be released in Japan next week at ¥1200 (about US$10).
Presumably, this is to facilitate easy consultation when Japanese housewives are working their kitchen magic with the help of Kenkou Ouen Recipe 1000 DS Kondate Zenshuu (or, as we'd put it, "The Complete 1000-Recipe Healthy Eating Guide"). Or perhaps it's been designed to distract the portly gamer from reaching for so many refreshments. Either way, it's for the good of your body. And your body is your temple. Keep it clean. Over.
*More e-book than game, Shaberu! Oryouri Navi (which we'd translate as "Audio Cooking Guide") compiles more than 200 popular recipes and guides users through the whole process of making grub. It was, in fact, released in Japan in July of this year and continues to sell steadily.
Screen Via Comments
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November 28th, 2006, 22:39 Posted By: wraggster
New from Play Asia:
Hot on the heels of Final Fantasy V Advance, also Final Fantasy VI Advance is finally available to handheld gamers. However, this is more than a simple port—every aspect of the game has been reviewed and enhanced. Additionally, a host of brand-new elements have been seamlessly merged with the original game, providing unexpected surprises for longtime fans. With new dungeons, new job classes, and other exciting features, both old-school players and newcomers can enjoy this genre-defining Final Fantasy title in a portable format!
More Info / Buy Here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1loh.html
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November 28th, 2006, 22:59 Posted By: wraggster
Kuwanger has released a new version of his Unofficial Colecovision Emulator for the GBAm Which also works on Nintendo DS and Gamecube Gameboy player:
Heres whats new:
Update to v0.7 k1. Fixes a menu listing bug. Also a small update to the gamelist (problem pointed out by Groundhog).
Download and Give Feedback Via Comments
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November 28th, 2006, 23:13 Posted By: wraggster
Via DSfanboy
Known as EQ Trainer (through Google translation), the game's goal is not to measure how smart you are, but to measure your emotions and how you feel. How does the game measure your emotions, you ask? Well, apparently there are 3 game modes by which this is done. Solving problems is one method, with another, loosely-translated explanation for the second being "[the player] can forge four fields such as identifying and understanding the feeling respectively." The third way seems to be a kind of progressive chart, which has measured, and will measure, all of your emotions and forms a consistent reading.
A quirky title, but for such a dynamic platform as the DS, as well as previous titles taking full advantage of the system to offer non-conventional games, are we that surprised to see something of this nature crop up? Honestly, no, and for us here at DS Fanboy, we're kind of peeved we do not know Japanese and the odds of this title being localized are so slim as to be invisible.
More Info
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November 29th, 2006, 10:47 Posted By: Darksaviour69
Nintendo has declared that it is now the leader in the UK's home console and handheld markets, with the DS now outselling the PSP by a rate of more than 2.5 to 1.
According to Chart Track data, more than 2 million DS units have now been sold in the UK. Sales have continued to boom following the release of the Lite five months ago, and the success of titles such as Brain Training, Animal Crossing and New Super Mario Bros. - all of which have topped the 1 million sales mark in Europe.
"The ability of Nintendo DS to appeal to both gamers and non-gamers alike through an exciting, fun and innovative portfolio of software has been instrumental in its success in the UK," said David Yarnton, general manager of Nintendo UK.
"Nintendo DS will continue to be the main driving force behind the expansion of the video game market this year."
Lisa Morgan, CEO of high street retailer GAME, added, "Nintendo DS has played an increasingly important part of our business in 2006.
"Not only is the DS performing really well, but Nintendo are following through on their promise of expanding the gaming audience, which is key to GAME too. This is evident in the broad range of people coming into our stores to purchase both DS hardware and software."
Nintendo is currently gearing up for its next hardware release - the Wii, already a sell-out hit in North America, will launch across Europe on December 8.
Gameindustry.biz
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November 30th, 2006, 01:55 Posted By: wraggster
Red Steel is probably the Wii launch game you'll pick up after Twilight Princess on December 8, if you've got enough cash left over.
The French-based publisher has been making a lot of noise about its unique first-person slicer leading up to the launch. And it seems that a sequel is already under way in France as the firm is looking for a senior game designer to work on a follow-up.
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November 30th, 2006, 01:58 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime has revealed Nintendo's efforts to bring N64 classic Goldeneye 007 to the Wii Virtual Console, in an interview with MTV.com.
"Would I love to see it on virtual console? Absolutely. But there are a lot of issues there," the Nintendo boss said, adding that there's still a chance that we'll be shooting up Facility on the Wii: "Suffice it to say we would love to see it, so we're exploring all the rights issues."
It goes without saying there's a lot of legal tip-toeing to be done before Goldeneye reaches Nintendo's download service, as original developer Rare is now sheaved under the Microsoft cloak and the Bond game license is now in the hands of Activision.
Still, it's not impossible and we'll certainly be keeping our fingers crossed for Wii remote-mine flinging nostalgia - and no one's allowed to be Oddjob.
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November 30th, 2006, 01:59 Posted By: wraggster
Troop down to HMV at 150 Oxford Street, London, at 11pm on December 7 and you can take part in the UK Wii launch celebration occurring at the store as the console readies for its midnight strike.
Sporting celebs including Ian Wright, Jodie Kidd, Pat Cash and Ricky Hatton will be present and challenging all-comers to a bout of Wii Sports.
In addition to that, Nintendo is rewarding the first 200 punters to buy the Wii version of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess with a "very special strictly limited edition" The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess tin to store the game in.
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November 30th, 2006, 02:02 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime has said that North American gamers can expect Mario's first Wii adventure, Super Mario Galaxy in shops between the end of March and next Christmas, in an interview with MTV.com.
The Nintendo boss also revealed when we can expect the next "meaty adventure" game for Wii Metroid Prime: Corruption, which will apparently arrive with the next batch of big releases following WarioWare: Smooth Moves and Wii Play in January, and Mario Party 8 in March.
In the interview Reggie also commented on Nintendo's plans for Virtual Console releases, explaining that "on every Monday, you can expect between one and five titles... essentially on an ongoing basis," So at the very least we'll have one Mario game to play before next Christmas, old or new.
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November 30th, 2006, 02:07 Posted By: wraggster
Reggie Fils-Aime has said that American gamers can expect Super Mario Galaxy any time between the end of March and next Christmas.
Speaking to MTV News, Fils-Aime said that Metroid Prime: Corruption is going to be next in the batch of big Nintendo releases, following WarioWare: Smooth Moves, Wii Play (both January) and Mario Party 8 (March).
He also offered some idea of what consumers can expect from Virtual Console. "On every Monday, you can expect between one and five titles... essentially on an ongoing basis," he explained.
And they're working on the rights issues that are keeping games like GoldenEye away, too. "Suffice it to say we would love to see it, so we're exploring all the rights issues," the Nintendo of America boss told MTV.
But what of online gaming? "The first online game will be Pokémon Battle Revolution in Japan, so that is certainly a candidate [to be first] in the US." MTV then hints at other titles. "For the consumer who is saying, 'Gosh, when is Nintendo going to get on board with online play?' The answer is very early in 2007," Fils-Aime specified.
But what's this about arrogance, you're wondering. Apparently it's the difference between Nintendo and Sony and Microsoft. "Are we feeling good about our success? Do we think we can have more success in the future? Absolutely," he began.
"I do think that highlights a difference between us and our competitors: We're not arrogant. We don't view success as a right. We feel we need to earn success every day. And we're going to do that by being true to the gamer." Handbags!
As if to prove the point, he noted that he'll be off to Japan, cap in hand, to do some "lobbying" of his bosses in January. We're told to expect a "plethora" of Wii announcements around then.
One thing he won't be bringing back with him though is the DVD-playing Nintendo Wii, which was mooted a while ago. Asked by MTV whether Wii-DVD coming to the US any time soon, he responded simply: "The answer is no."
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November 30th, 2006, 02:13 Posted By: wraggster
Without its line of Game Boy handhelds, Nintendo would likely not be in the position it is today. When the company went head-to-head with Sony's PlayStation 2 and Microsoft's Xbox with the GameCube, the result was disastrous for the one-time gaming leader.
Thankfully the company had the Game Boy Advance and more recently the Nintendo DS--both of which have helped keep Nintendo's wallet fat. While Nintendo tries to get back into the console race with the Wii, no one can dispute that the company dominates the handheld market.
Though the DS looks to shape the future of Nintendo's handhelds, the company believes its predecessor, though dated, still has some legs to stand on. Speaking at the Reuters Media Summit in New York, Nintendo of America president and COO Reggie Fils-Aime said, "We think that Game Boy Advance certainly has at least one more holiday season left in it."
In fact, Fils-Aime says, the GBA is still essential to Nintendo's plan as a "gateway console."
"For us, it continues to be a great stepping stone for five-, six-, seven-year old consumers to have their first great handheld gaming experience and then transition right into DS," Fils-Aime told Reuters.
According to the executive, sales of both the DS and GBA are expected to meet company expectations this year.
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November 30th, 2006, 02:16 Posted By: wraggster
While we've been busy covering the hell out of the Wii and PS3, The Onions seems to have made it a little simpler.
rofl
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November 30th, 2006, 02:18 Posted By: wraggster
Intimidating Nintendo bossman with a friendly smile, Reggie Fils-Aime, told Reuters today that his company is on track to sell 4 million Wiis worldwide by the end of the year. If reality, that would be like selling almost 20% of the GameCube's 21M install base in just over six weeks (!).
The gaming exec also expects to sell a 'lil something extra on top of the planned 4 million, manufacturing constraints permitting. And I quote: "Exceeding (sales targets) is going to be challenging based on manufacturing capacity. We will sell everything we make so now it's simply a manufacturing thing."
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November 30th, 2006, 02:21 Posted By: wraggster
Nintendo has made it pretty hard to connect with other Wii owners through the Wii itself, but this hasn't stopped some intrepid web users from creating online trading posts for Wii codes, messages, game saves and Miis.
Here are a few of the better resources out there so far:
MiiPages - A country-by-country list of Wii owners looking for other Wii owners to connect with. Users can search for fellow gamers with similar games and interests and put in a friend request -- your Wii code is hidden until you accept a request. With over 1000 users already, this is shaping up to be a premiere Wii sharing community.
Wii-play - An extremely large Wii forum and chat community that supports easy Wii code sharing and a clever system to redirect private messages to your friends' Wii consoles. The site is a little overwhelming at first and requires a little work to figure out all its features, but its worth it to find fellow Wii owners to connect with.
ConnectMii - Basically just a forum to broadcast your Wii code to hundreds of strangers who have done the same. If you're friend list goals involve quantity and not quality, this is the site for you.
Wii Save - A growing community devoted to sharing Wii save files through SD cards, complete with step-by-step upload and download instructions. The site is mostly Zelda saves for now, but hopefully we'll see a wider range of saves soon.
MiiPlaza - This site doesn't let you exchange Wii codes or data, but does let you share photos of your Mii Channel creations with the world. Kind of small at the moment, but sure to grow as more users try to give their Miis digital immortality.
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November 30th, 2006, 02:27 Posted By: wraggster
New Racing game released for Nintendo DS:
features
Rule the streets by forcing your opponents out, causing crashes, or facing off with angry cops.
Cars include Lamborghini, Nissan 350Z, Mercedes SLR, Dodge Viper SRT-10, Hummer H3. Or choose from motorcycles including Ducati 999 R, Kawasaki VN 2000, and more!
Use the stylus to modify over 30 specs on your car or motorcycle. Fine-tune for performance or just for looks.
Choose Arcade mode for fast and instant fun or Evolution mode for a complete racing experience. Each mode has over 27 tracks to master.
Speed through circuits listening to music from Moby. Win races, and the Pussycat Dolls will be there to cheer you on.
description
Asphalt: Urban GT 2 shifts into gear with six game modes, numerous tuning possibilities, 30 tracks and 36 licensed cars and motorcycles – taking handheld racing simulations to a new level. To keep the action hot, Asphalt: Urban GT 2 features music from Moby and music and appearances from the Pussycat Dolls.
Power a wide range of high-performance cars and motorbikes and race through 15 of the world's most famous city streets. Uncover new racing circuits and vehicles, customize your hot rod, and make the Pussycat Dolls purr!
Buy here --> http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...j-70-1ny3.html
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November 30th, 2006, 02:34 Posted By: wraggster
News from the Official Site:
I just figured I'd make a post here to let everyone know what we've been up to of late. Well basically we're still working on the emulator with our goal being a release around Christmas hopefully. We still need to add shash's code and fix a few odd things, but for the most part the emulator is running pretty good. Expect an increase in compatibility, sound emulation, backup memory emulation, and save states.
http://desmume.sourceforge.net/
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November 30th, 2006, 02:37 Posted By: wraggster
from Nintendo:
Hold the Wii Remote firmly and do not let go. Even while wearing the wrist strap, make sure you don't let go of the Wii Remote during game play and do not use excessive motion. For example, in Wii Sports bowling, the proper way to let go of the ball while bowling is to release the "B" button on the Wii Remote—DO NOT LET GO OF THE Wii REMOTE ITSELF. If you are having so much fun that you start perspiring, take a moment to dry your hands. If you use excessive motion and let go of the Wii Remote, the wrist strap may break and you could lose control of the Wii Remote. This could injure people nearby or cause damage to other objects.
Good advice
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November 30th, 2006, 02:48 Posted By: wraggster
DSlife by Jeremysr
------------------
What is Conway's Game of Life? Go here to find out: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conways_life
DSlife follows the same rules as Conway's Life. It comes in three versions: 32, 64, and 256. These numbers are the width of the array of cells in the game of life.
DSlife_256: 256x192 cells, each cell is 1x1 pixel
DSlife_64: 64x48 cells, each cell is 4x4 pixels
DSlife_32: 32x24 cells, each cell is 8x8 pixels (most accurate for creating life patterns)
To edit, draw on the bottom screen. You can press B to erase the whole screen, but you can't erase 1 cell at a time yet. After you are done editing, press start to begin the program and watch the cells change. Cells at the edges of the screen are ALWAYS dead.
Controls:
Start: start the simulation
Select: stop the simulation (back to editing mode)
B: Clear the screen
Stylus: Draw life on the screen (you can't erase/kill cells yet though)
Coming Soon (I hope): Saving and Loading bitmaps as patterns, a grid, variable speed.
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November 30th, 2006, 02:49 Posted By: wraggster
Today, The Game Factory announced the signing of a worldwide publishing agreement with Taffy Entertainment to release a game for the Nintendo DS based on the CGI animated series, Pet Alien. The game is in development by Shin'en using its proprietary 3D Nintendo DS engine.
Currently airing around the world, Pet Alien deals with the trials and travails of twelve-year old Tommy's life as seen through the eyes of his five alien companions. Based on a property created by Jeff Muncy of John Doze Studios, the series is produced by Mike Young Productions, in conjunction with Moonscoop, Telegael, and Europool Germany.
The game is slated for release in Q2 2007 and features over 50 levels set inside a giant robotic spaceship. In the game players will take on the roles of all five Pet Aliens, each with its own unique abilities, as they struggle to rescue Tommy. The game also features 5 stylus-driven mini-games and bonus modes containing unlockable jukebox and photo gallery.
"We're excited to add Pet Alien, an out-of-this-world property, to our gaming product line" said Henrik Mathiasen of The Game Factory. "Just as we have done with all our global properties we look forward to adapting the series' signature style and humor into a multi-layered game that will entertain players of all ages"
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November 30th, 2006, 02:49 Posted By: wraggster
Ashamed of your Japanese skills? Well according to Nintendo, you should be. But fear not: a new Nintendo DS game is on the horizon, one that will help you "power-up" your kanji and kana skills. Titled Gakken DS Otona no Gakushuu: Kindaichi Sensei no Nihongo Lesson {basically that's Japanese for Kindaichi Sensei thinks your Japanese sucks), the game is aimed at those who are too embarrased to admit they can't tell the difference between the kanji jou and tou, nor read the subtitles that pop up during Japanese variety shows for no apparent reason.
Hosting the game is Kyorin University's Professor of Foreign Studies Hideho Kindaichi, who tests your Japanese skills through a series of activities and then evaluates your progress. If you do well, he'll let you know. If you do poorly, he'll let you know that too, and then tell you what areas of your Japanese you need to work on.
The game is scheduled for a February release in Japan, but don't look for it to find its way to foreign shores anytime soon, since in order to understand the game you must be able to read Japanese and basic kanji (ironic, no?) If you can meet the language requirements however, you should be be able to import the game by around Valentine's Day. Sugoi!
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November 30th, 2006, 02:57 Posted By: wraggster
Ive seen the Commercial Demos on several sites now and would dearly love to have them all here at DS Emulation but i am concerned about legalitys
So whats the general feelings on the subject ?
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November 30th, 2006, 05:10 Posted By: sypherce
Version 0.6 now has virtual gamepad emulation, this means you can use DS2Key with any application requiring a joystick/gamepad.
When in gamepad mode the touch screen is used as a analog stick, which resets to the center when not being pressed (similar to any other joystick).
Currently the gamepad mode only works for a single person, but key modes MIGHT function properly for other people at the same time.
You must install a external program (PPJoy) to make use of the gamepad mode functions, I've included the instructions on how to do so in the archive.
Also I included a simple configuration application that runs in text mode, its still a little confusing but it should be easier then just manual editing.
If anyone has problems with DS2Key or wants to suggest something or anything else reply here or contact me by email or something .
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November 30th, 2006, 17:10 Posted By: VampDude
Not exactly on the Wii side of the Wii, but even being on the GameCube side of the Wii is somehow better than nothing!
Gamecube Homebrew on Wii using Action Replay
After gathering together all of the parts needed, I was finally able to run some homebrew on my Wii today.
I don't have a Gamecube memory to SD converter, however, I have an Action Replay GC kit which comes with a GC Disc and a GC Memory card and a Max Drive which also comes with a GC disc and a memory card with a usb port for connecting to PC.
I loaded the GCOS files onto the Max Drive Pro through their pc software, and plugged it into the Wii's Game Cube Memory Slot A, I put the Action Replay into the Wii's GC Memory Slot B, I loaded the Action Replay Disc from the Wii main menu, went to freeloader, ejected the AR disc, and inserted the Max Drive Disc and Max Drive Boots (Wierd because I could not boot this disc from the Wii menu)
So now from the MaxDrive disc I can run .dol files on the Wii.
So far I have loaded GCOS and gone through the menus but nothing really works. What's next? I never had a gamecube, what other Gamecube things should I try?
If any of the developers of this GC software want me to help you test some code, let me know.
UPDATE: More info has been posted by Sappharad over on the GC-Dev forums:
Just tested my AR on the Wii. It's the first version, 1.06... And it works!
SDload is running on my Wii as I type this. So that's some good news.
I'll do a bit of drive experiments later to see if I can get a firmware dump for the GCLinux folks. Nothing strange happens when you try to unlock the drive and read the firmware the old way, but I haven't actually displayed any output at this point. I need to learn how to write files to SD cards, since there is no BBA this time.
Edit:
It appears that using the old method of enabling drive debug to do a firmware dump returns all 0's.
Oh well. It was worth a shot. (There's still a chance I messed up, but I was working off of old code that I know was working.)
Edit 2:
For the record, and in case anyone wants to know, Virtual Console titles are encrypted. It appears each game you download also has the emulator for it attached, with seems like a waste of space IMO. Sonic 1, whose original rom was 512KB, is a bit over 2MB on Virtual Console. (Oh, and for genesis games you CAN play them with the Wii remote, in addition to the classic or GC controllers)
Edit 3:
Had a chance to compare Virtual Console data with someone else's yesterday. The same executable is over 95% different saved onto two different Wii's. Exact same size, just encrypted with a different key as expected. It doesn't seem like it will be easy for us to "create" our own channels in the near future. This is where I stop for now, as I lack the time or resources to try anything more elaborate.
Read Full Article (And More on Nintendo Wii) Here
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November 30th, 2006, 18:01 Posted By: wraggster
The PAL version of Nintendo Wii will ship with a boxed version of Wii Sports rather than a bare disc as it did in the US, we can confirm.
Another thing to note about the PAL Wii is that when it connects to the net and looks for an update patch, it claims the system's up to date, which ought to put your mind at ease if you've found yourself gripped with anxiety about reports of bricked consoles since the US launch.
Some more quick PAL Wii trivia then? Well, it's possible to make quite an impressive Kristan avatar (yellow shirt, ginger hair, eyes closed to the truth etc.), and Wii Sports tennis appears to be much more interesting than the novelty some had predicted. Watch out for more soon!
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November 30th, 2006, 18:04 Posted By: wraggster
"We will sell everything we make, so now it's a manufacturing thing"
Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime has said that the company is on track to ship 4 million Wii units by the end of the year - and could even exceed that figure.
Speaking at the Reuters Media Summit he said, "All systems are go for reaching the 4 million target we have in our financials by December 31. We will sell everything we make so now it's simply a manufacturing thing."
According to Fils-Aime, Nintendo could well beat its sales targes for the Wii - but he added that it would be "challenging based on manufacturing capacity".
During the summit, Fils-Aime also touched upon the subject of a much older Nintendo product - the GBA.
"We think that Game Boy Advance certainly has at least one more holiday season left in it," he said.
"For us, it continues to be a great stepping stone for five, six, seven year-old consumers to have their first great handheld gaming experience and then transition right into DS."
Fils-Aime said the GBA has enjoyed "just as good a selling season so far" as the Nintendo DS, with more third-party titles still to come over the next nine months.
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November 30th, 2006, 18:07 Posted By: wraggster
With its Japanese and US launch just days away, a selection of new Elebits shots - Konami's intriguing new hide 'n' seek game for Wii - has come out of hiding.
Elebits are curious little creatures that act as the game world's source of energy, so things go pear-shaped when they decide to go on strike. What makes it worse is that the cheeky 'Bits have hidden themselves as well.
The job of the gamer is to try to find the Elebits using the unique capabilities of the Wii-mote, which allows you to push, pull and lift objects while you undergo the search. As more Elebits are found more power is restored to the world which means more implements can be used in the search.
There will be a multiplayer option allowing up to four gamers to compete with each other to see who can find the most Elebits within a time limit. It also seems you'll be able to take photos of your 'Bits to send to a friend.
Screens Here
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November 30th, 2006, 18:23 Posted By: wraggster
News from Play Asia
Around two week after the US launch, Japanese gamers are much looking forward to Saturday, December 2nd - the official Nintendo Wii™ street date in Japan. Distributors and wholesalers have started to receive supply during this week. Our first shipment of Japanese accessories has arrived yesterday; the first consoles and games have followed today. Time for us to play around with the Japanese system a little bit, test region compatibility issues and more.
This news post is intended to give a general overview of this week's software & accessory lineup as well as some other useful information for anyone intending to purchase a Japanese Wii™ system.
Japanese Hardware & Software Launch Lineup
Hardware:
Nintendo Wii JPN US$ 399.00
Wii Remote Control JPN US$ 39.90
Wii Nunchuk Controller JPN US$ 19.90
Wii Classic Controller JPN US$ 19.90
Wii AC Adapter JPN US$ 29.90
Wii AV Cable JPN US$ 9.99
Wii S-Video Cable JPN US$ 24.90
Wii Component AV Cable JPN US$ 29.90
Wii SD Memory Card 512MB JPN US$ 37.90
Wii Points Prepaid Card (1000 Wii Points / for Japanese network only) JPN US$ 9.99
Wii Points Prepaid Card (3000 Wii Points / for Japanese network only) JPN US$ 29.90
Wii Points Prepaid Card (5000 Wii Points / for Japanese network only) + Wii Classic Controller JPN US$ 59.90
Note: As forecasted by our suppliers, we are expecting shortage on Wii Remote Controls, Wii Component AV and Wii S-Video Cables. We estimate to have a better overview about what is in stock and what is on backorder by end of this week as some suppliers have not yet given full quantity reconfirmations as of now. As possible substitution for the Wii Remote Control, we recommend the Hajimete no Wii: Your First Step To Wii pack (which includes a free remote).
Please also note that the Wii D-Terminal AV Cable has been postponed to a yet to be confirmed date. Also the Wii LAN Adapter is not a release date accessory and is currently expected to be released within December.
Japanese Wii Points can only be redeemed on a Japanese network using a Japanese Wii™ console (see further below for more details).
Also in stock is limited supply of US version consoles & accessories:
Nintendo Wii (incl. Wii Sports) US US$ 499.00
Wii Remote Control US US$ 49.90
Wii Nunchuk Controller US US$ 24.90
The Nintendo Wii™ is region encoded. Japanese software only runs on Japanese consoles, while US software only plays back on US systems (read further below for more details).
Software:
Caduceus Z: 2-tsu no Chou Shittou / Trauma Center: Second Opinion JPN US$ 59.90
Crayon Shin-Chan: Saikyou Kazoku Kasukabe King Wii JPN US$ 59.90
Elebits JPN US$ 59.90
Ennichi no Tatsujin JPN US$ 49.90
Hajimete no Wii: Your First Step To Wii (w/ Remote) JPN US$ 59.90
Kororinpa JPN US$ 49.90
Necro-Nesia JPN US$ 64.90
Odoru Made in Wario JPN US$ 59.90
Red Steel JPN US$ 64.90
SD Gundam: Scud Hammers JPN US$ 59.90
Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz JPN US$ 59.90
Super Swing Golf Pangya JPN US$ 59.90
Tamagotchi no Pika Pika Daito-ryo-! JPN US$ 59.90
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess JPN US$ 64.90
Wii Sports JPN US$ 49.90
Wing Island JPN US$ 59.90
Note: Most software releases have already arrived and are in stock. More supply is expected to arrive within the next 1-2 days. As it currently appears, there's no shortage on any software release. Please be reminded that some interesting titles are not among the launch lineup, such as Pokemon Battle Revolution and Bleach: Wii Shiraha Kirameku Rinbukyoku, which are both scheduled for a December 14th release.
Video Download: Odoru Made in Wario (3:46min)
Further Nintendo Wii™ preorders.
US Version Nintendo Wii™ software lineup.
The Nintendo Wii™ is region encoded. Japanese software only runs on Japanese consoles, while US software only plays back on US systems (read further below for more details).
Region encoding - Freeloader/Action Replay compatibility
To make it short, Nintendo Wii™ consoles and software are region encoded. We have tested a large variety of games from different publishers on our systems and are confident to confirm that a full region lockout exists. This applies to Nintendo Wii™ as well as Gamecube™ software alike.
Partially good news though for users that wish to play back import Gamecube™ games on their Wii™ system. Datel's Action Replay has been tested and allows playback of US/JPN Gamecube™ games on a foreign Wii™ system. Though we have read reports about older Freeloader versions to be running as well, the current version (1.06B) has been tested by us and is not working. An updated version of the Freeloader is likely to appear but we will post an update as soon as it happens.
Compatibility/Language Overview
Japanese Wii™ US Wii™
Wii™ Software NTSC/J only (Japan/Asia) NTSC/U/C only (USA/Canada)
GameCube™ Software NTSC/J only (Japan/Asia) NTSC/U/C only (USA/Canada)
Language Option Japanese only English, French, Spanish
Video Download: Action Replay works on Wii™ (0:53min)
Video Download: Japanese Wii™ doesn't like US games (0:12min)
Video Download: US Wii™ doesn't like Japanese games (0:12min)
Accessories compatibility
As likely for video game consoles, there's no region protection on accessories among different release versions. We have tested US version controllers on our Japanese system (and vice versa) and have not encountered any problems so far. Please be reminded however that you have to press the connect button on the system and the controller when assigning a new Wii™ Remote to your system (see images below for details).
For the first time since release of the Super Famicom™, the Nintendo Wii™ uses a different Multi AV cable standard. In other words, your Gamecube™, Nintendo64™ or even SNES/SFC cables won't work anymore.
Also note that the Japanese Wii™ point cards are only suitable for the Japanese Wii™ network (check out next topic for more details).
Virtual Console - Wii™ Points compatibility
As a disclaimer, the Japanese Wii™ network is not yet accessible, so we haven't fully been able to test all functions on the Japanese Wii™ system yet. However from the information we have been able to gather so far, it appears that you can only access the specific network that your Wii™ console has been designed for.
We have also tested Japanese version Wii™ Point Cards and can confirm that Japanese cards cannot be redeemed on a US Wii™ network.
Bottomline
Unlike the PlayStation3™ - which is region free for PS3™ games, supports multilingual onscreen text and allows you to connect to any regional PlayStation™ network (providing you have a valid residential address in the selected territory), the Nintendo Wii™ is fully region encoded in terms of Wii™/Gamecube™/Virtual Console playback and does not support multilingual onscreen text.
In other words, if you are considering purchasing a Japanese Wii™ system as substitution for a domestic system, Play-Asia.com recommends you to reconsider carefully as you will not be able to play domestic software releases. However if you are looking for a way to play unique Japanese Wii™ games (such as this week's released Odoru Made in Wario and Ennichi no Tatsujin or the upcoming Bleach: Wii Shiraha Kirameku Rinbukyoku) and want to take advantage of the Japanese Wii™ virtual console lineup, then a Japanese system will be the only way to go at the moment.
Appendix - Image Gallery & Video Downloads
Please use the right mouse button and click "save as" to store the videos to your hard drive.
Odoru Made in Wario (3:46min)
Action Replay works on Wii™ (0:53min)
Japanese Wii™ doesn't like US games (0:12min)
US Wii™ doesn't like Japanese games either (0:12min)
No Japanese Wii™ codes on US network (0:08min)
Screens and Videos and Much More at Play Asia
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November 30th, 2006, 18:37 Posted By: blackrave
Darkwolf released today an app that can make the PSP a sensor bar for the Wii, from what I can understand. It has not been tested yet, so Darkwolf can't guarantee it works, so please, if anyone has a Wii, can you test it and post results? Thanks.
This is from PSBs readme file:- simply load psb from xmb, plce your psp on top of, or under your TV and point
- the ir port located at the top of your psp facing your holding your wiimote.
- THIS APP IS DESIGNED TO ENCOURAGE PSP-Wii FRIENDLYNESS
- this has not been tested with a wii console and is currently only a proof of concept basic design.
- may work better with 2 psp's scince there is only one IR led on each psp.
- anyhow this may not work with only one psp and the more the merrier.
- basic coding by me (DarkWolf)
- Graphics by me
- DEbug by OMAR_OMAR2
- special thanks to creators of luaplayer
PS: Can a moderator add Wii to the topic name?
Download via comments
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November 30th, 2006, 22:54 Posted By: gotmilk0112
when i tried to go onto the wii shop channel today, it said: "The wii shop channel has been updated! please go to the wii menu to perform the update." so i went to settings and updated and went back to the shop. nothing new. no new looks or anything.
mabey this was just to block that "Hack" to get opera browser? 
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November 30th, 2006, 23:42 Posted By: wraggster
Via engadget
You know, most of us here at Engadget couldn't help but get a bit misty eyed when we saw that new Wii Classic Controller and recalled our fond memories of many a' night spent with the SNES' Ol' Roundy. Of course, there's always that original rectangular classic NES controller that we saved the Princess with in "Super Mario Bros.", which will always have a fond place in our hearts. Whichever you prefer (or perhaps both), RetroUSB has just released SNES and NES controller adapters for the Nintendo Wii, letting your relive your mid-1980s and early 1990s memories of button-pushing in the 21st century; when you download the original Super Mario Bros. or the very first StarFox via Nintendo's Virtual Console service, you can now play them as they were meant to be played. These controller adapters will make the perfect addition for our F-Zero party this weekend
http://www.retrousb.com/wii.html
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December 1st, 2006, 00:37 Posted By: wraggster
Shash has posted some more news of his progress with the DS Emulator DeSmuMe, heres what he posted:
I've spent the past few days working on 2D related stuff and minor fixes. Quite a few hours have been invested "only" logging and debugging some demos still not working properly, because, for example, some basic stuff seems to be still failing. Also, I've worked a bit onto getting more speed from 3D, which got a bit faster, but still needs quite a lot of work.
Today I'll talk a bit about the last one I've been working on, even if the actual implementation is more a raft from what it should be. I'm talking about the pixel blending, which can be used, for example, to cross fade from one image to another (as used in Zelda Gallery), or blending multiple images (for example, I think that's what it's used for "MP: First Hunt" menus). You can get a proper reference here. I've still to make some proper improvements, because I still don't support some effects that can be achieved with multiple source selections, for example, but I'll fix them in a few days.
Today I prefered to leave the technical details aside, as I don't really still feel confident about how the special color effects work. Anyway, here's the blend support as seen in Zelda Gallery (source, half blended, and destiny):
More Info --> http://shashemudev.blogspot.com/2006...l-effects.html
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December 1st, 2006, 00:49 Posted By: wraggster
If building and managing cities isn't your bag, how's a theme park sound? Electronic Arts announced, according to GameFront, that they'll be releasing another port of one of their popular games, Theme Park, for the DS. There are very few details thus far on Theme Park DS, though there's word of a tentative Japanese release date in March. Some German sources are listing a similar date for Europe, but there's no word yet on any other region. As soon as we hear anything else, we'll let you know. Whether you love or hate EA (there seems to be no middle ground on that subject), it's nice to see that they're dedicating resources to the DS, since the building games seem so well suited to the stylus.
This Will be a Killer release for DS
via dsfanboy
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December 1st, 2006, 00:50 Posted By: wraggster
Via pocketgamer
Would weapons of mass destruction seeker Hans Blix have done any better in Iraq if he had the advantage of working within a point-and-click adventure? Illicit movements across the Iranian border? Just drag your mouse over the trail and solve the brain-teasing puzzle with the help of a magnifying glass and chewing gum wrapper...
Okay, so maybe we're being overly controversial with respect to the luckless Swede, but head back in time 70-odd years to the setting of Undercover: Dual Motives, and the task is somewhat similar.
Playing as scientist Dr. John Russell, you're investigating a British research facility within which something fishy is occurring. Making full use of the DS's two screens, second playable character, secretary Audrey, will also be on hand to help out. Indeed, you'll have to coordinate their actions to solve many of the game's puzzles – control can be switched between the two instantly.
The other tricky element of Undercover is its mini-games. One that uses the DS' stylus, touchscreen and microphone has been revealed by publisher dtp. It's a paper dart blowing game that sees you blowing little darts across a laboratory to get the attention of the deaf professor who's working within. The direction of the shot is controlled by the touchscreen and stylus, while the power is calculated from the volume of your breath on the mic.
And no doubt a similar mechanic will be used later in the game, perhaps with something more lethal or soporific than paper darts, as Russell attempts to avoid the attentions of Colonel Travers and his subordinates, agents Miller and McAllistair, while accessing the facility's top secret areas.
Undercover: Dual Motives is due for release in summer 2007.
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