Joystiq [Nintendo] http://nintendo.joystiq.com Joystiq [Nintendo] http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq [Nintendo] http://nintendo.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2010 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[See who made the cut in Trauma Team character contest]]>http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/see-who-made-the-cut-in-trauma-team-character-contest/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/see-who-made-the-cut-in-trauma-team-character-contest/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/see-who-made-the-cut-in-trauma-team-character-contest/#commentsThis is Charlie Malone, a composer who has worked on Pac-Man World Rally, Pirates of the Burning Sea and more. He won a contest held by Atlus at E3. As a result, he's totally going to die -- unless you can save him.

Charlie won Atlus's Trauma Team contest, which awarded him the "prize" of becoming a patient in the upcoming medical game. He submitted pictures to Atlus, and was redrawn to "make the character fit the game while retaining the features from the reference picture," according to art director Masayuki Doi. As a result, it'll seem like you're really patching up this guy's insides.

We've also updated our gallery with new images of the game's fictional characters.

Joystiq NintendoSee who made the cut in Trauma Team character contest originally appeared on Joystiq Nintendo on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluscharlie-malonecontesthospitaltrauma-teamTue, 09 Feb 2010 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Get a taste of the future: Ghost Recon: Future Soldier teaser]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/get-a-taste-of-the-future-ghost-recon-future-soldier-teaser/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/get-a-taste-of-the-future-ghost-recon-future-soldier-teaser/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/get-a-taste-of-the-future-ghost-recon-future-soldier-teaser/#comments The previously Xbox Live-exclusive Ghost Recon: Future Soldier trailer has found its way onto the YouTubes. As expected, it's a lot of CG and absolutely no gameplay -- with a final title screen promising release in "Fall 2010." One item in the teaser, however, did manage to excite us: Invisibility. It looks like every future soldier gets one of those special Harry Potter blankets. Neat!

Head past the break for the teaser.

Continue reading Get a taste of the future: Ghost Recon: Future Soldier teaser

JoystiqGet a taste of the future: Ghost Recon: Future Soldier teaser originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ghost-reconghost-recon-future-soldierubisoftvideoTue, 09 Feb 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cloud Strife hacked (and slashed) into Smash Bros. Brawl]]>http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/cloud-strife-hacked-and-slashed-into-smash-bros-brawl/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/cloud-strife-hacked-and-slashed-into-smash-bros-brawl/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/cloud-strife-hacked-and-slashed-into-smash-bros-brawl/#comments Up until today, our biggest problem with Super Smash Bros. Brawl has been that it doesn't have enough introspective, spiky-haired RPG protagonists. That's all changed, thanks to a group of modders known as DasDonkey Team. Final Fantasy VII protagonist himself Cloud Strife -- along with his trusty Buster sword -- have been faithfully recreated in surprising detail here in Nintendo's franchise fight-em-up with custom animations and attacks, to boot. We won't pretend to understand the motivation behind the implementation -- with these mods, we so seldom do -- but, hey, we're not complaining. The more, the merrier!

Head past the break to check out some video of Cloud in action.

[Via GameVideos]

Continue reading Cloud Strife hacked (and slashed) into Smash Bros. Brawl

Joystiq NintendoCloud Strife hacked (and slashed) into Smash Bros. Brawl originally appeared on Joystiq Nintendo on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cloudcloud-strifefinal-fantasy-viihackhacksmodSuper-Smash-Brossuper-smash-bros-brawlTue, 09 Feb 2010 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Level-5 has surprises in store for Wii and PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/level-5-has-surprises-in-store-for-wii-and-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/level-5-has-surprises-in-store-for-wii-and-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/level-5-has-surprises-in-store-for-wii-and-ps3/#commentsGiving a speech at the deliciously-named C.C. Lemon Hall in Tokyo, Level-5 CEO Akihiro Hino revealed that the developer has unannounced Wii and PS3 games in the works.

The developer's current lineup is heavy on DS and mobile titles (including Professor Layton games, Ni no Kuni, and Fantasy Life), with one known console game: the followup to the PS3 role-playing game White Knight Chronicles. One of the unnamed Wii titles could be Inazuma Eleven Break, a console soccer RPG whose platform was never specified. Dragon Quest X, whose Wii development was confirmed by Dragon Quest creator Yuji Horii, but whose developer was never named, is also a possibility. But this is all conjecture, since Hino said nothing other than that there were some new Wii and PS3 games.

[Via Andriasang]

JoystiqLevel-5 has surprises in store for Wii and PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragon-quest-xinazuma-eleven-breaklevel-5Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix promotes Wii streaming with 'underwhelming' HD argument]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/netflix-promotes-wii-streaming-with-underwhelming-hd-argument/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/netflix-promotes-wii-streaming-with-underwhelming-hd-argument/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/netflix-promotes-wii-streaming-with-underwhelming-hd-argument/#comments If you've been following the Wii Netflix saga, you're probably familiar with Nintendo's stance on HD movie streaming. The company's Reggie Fils-Aimé recently went on record saying that the average Wii user won't care about the Wii's inability to push HD Netflix. That's expected though, right? He works for Nintendo, after all. But get this, now Netflix itself is deemphasizing its own HD streaming service.

Speaking to TheWiire.com, Netflix VP of Corporate Communications Steve Swasey recognized that the Wii can't handle HD streaming, but stated that Netflix doesn't believe that to be a problem for Wii households. Swasey noted that only 1 in 17 titles are available in HD, adding that HD content is only 720p -- not 1080p -- and that it's not available with 5.1 surround sound. "The HD experience at Netflix Instant Watching isn't that overwhelming," said Swasey, adding, "It's a little bit underwhelming."

So there you have it. There's absolutely no reason for anyone to even want HD streaming. Ever. Now go order your Wii Netflix disc.

JoystiqNetflix promotes Wii streaming with 'underwhelming' HD argument originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdnetflixnintendostreaming-videoTue, 09 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Riccitiello reckons console price cuts came too late]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/riccitiello-reckons-console-price-cuts-came-too-late/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/riccitiello-reckons-console-price-cuts-came-too-late/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/riccitiello-reckons-console-price-cuts-came-too-late/#comments Yesterday's EA earnings call was packed with tidbits about upcoming games but, as reported by VG247, there was time for some minor mudslinging as well. During the call, EA CEO John Riccitiello was asked about industry health and tie ratios, and said "I think a... factor in 2009 was sort of a lack of aggressive pricing on first-party if you will, a little bit too late with their price-cuts."

He later added that console use was actually up, even in the face of social gaming platforms like Facebook. So, think what you will about Riccy's stance on price cut timing, the one thing that's certain is that we're not to blame.

JoystiqRiccitiello reckons console price cuts came too late originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaJohn-riccitielloTue, 09 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ghost Recon also headed to Wii, PSP, and DS; Wii version developed by a different team]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ghost-recon-also-headed-to-wii-psp-and-ds-wii-version-develop/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ghost-recon-also-headed-to-wii-psp-and-ds-wii-version-develop/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ghost-recon-also-headed-to-wii-psp-and-ds-wii-version-develop/#comments Among the handful of Ubiscoops about 2010's releases coming out of today's investor call, Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot brought up the tactical Tom Clancy franchise Ghost Recon. Beyond the already revealed platforms for Ghost Recon: Future Soldier, Guillemot detailed the franchise's further ubiquity, saying the next Ghost Recon game will "be on all platforms: 360, PS3, Wii, PSP, [and] DS." He noted that the Wii version of Ghost Recon will "be done by a different team" with a "different approach ... created for that Wii population." Presumably, the game will involve standing on the balance board to approximate a sniper's breathing -- and it'll also be made up entirely of mini-games. Whoa, whoa -- calm down there killer. We're just joshin' ya!

He also confirmed something we've been mentioning for months now: "There will be more competition in the first eight months than in the last four." Get your calculators and spreadsheets out, folks -- early 2010 is gonna be a bruiser like we've never seen before (on our bank accounts, that is).

JoystiqGhost Recon also headed to Wii, PSP, and DS; Wii version developed by a different team originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ghost-reconghost-recon-future-soldierq1-2010ubisoftyves-guillemotTue, 09 Feb 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft details first quarter 2010 releases; reveals Anno for iPhone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-details-first-quarter-2010-releases-reveals-anno-for-ip/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-details-first-quarter-2010-releases-reveals-anno-for-ip/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/ubisoft-details-first-quarter-2010-releases-reveals-anno-for-ip/#comments Ubisoft's latest sales report details the company's proposed fourth quarter fiscal year releases -- the period beginning January 1, 2010 until March 31, 2010. It's pretty much everything we expected, with profits for Ubisoft relying on four key titles, three of which are on the PC platform: Assassin's Creed II: Director's Cut, Red Steel 2, The Settlers 7: Paths to a Kingdom and Silent Hunter 5: Battle for the Atlantic.

However, other notable titles will also release during this window, including Racquet Sports and the upcoming Assassin's Creed 2: Multiplayer on iPhone -- oh, and a bunch of new Imagine games, obviously. Outside of detailing these games, Ubisoft also announced that its popular Anno series is coming to the iPhone. Exact details on the game haven't been revealed, but it's a safe bet that city planning and real-time strategy will somehow be involved. Head past the break for the full list of releases.

Source - Ubisoft Q3 sales report [PDF link]

Continue reading Ubisoft details first quarter 2010 releases; reveals Anno for iPhone

JoystiqUbisoft details first quarter 2010 releases; reveals Anno for iPhone originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creedassassins-creed-2assassins-creed-2-directors-cutassassins-creed-2-discoveryassassins-creed-2-multiplayerimagineracquet-sportsrelease-dateubisoftTue, 09 Feb 2010 12:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese Nintendo downloads: Mega Man 4, Nectaris, Starship Defender]]>http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/japanese-nintendo-downloads-mega-man-4-nectaris-starship-defe/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/japanese-nintendo-downloads-mega-man-4-nectaris-starship-defe/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/japanese-nintendo-downloads-mega-man-4-nectaris-starship-defe/#commentsThis week, the long-awaited remake of Hudson's Military Madness is available on WiiWare in Japan. Do you like ... war? Do you like hexagons? This is for you! Japanese gamers with no interest in playing updated versions of classic games can play a faithfully emulated version of Mega Man 4 instead.

DSi owners have a wide selection of games this week, including Q-Games's Starship Defense/Starship Patrol (now under a third name!), a new G.G. Series game, a Gameloft pet sim, and a dungeon crawler based on Sonic Powered's From the Abyss.

Joystiq NintendoJapanese Nintendo downloads: Mega Man 4, Nectaris, Starship Defender originally appeared on Joystiq Nintendo on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anonymous-notes-from-the-abyssdsiwaregg-seriesmega-man-4military-madnessnectarisrockman-4starship-defensevirtual-consolewiiwareTue, 09 Feb 2010 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Australia fines NSMB Wii uploader $1.5 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/nintendo-australia-fines-nsmb-wii-uploader-1-5-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/nintendo-australia-fines-nsmb-wii-uploader-1-5-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/nintendo-australia-fines-nsmb-wii-uploader-1-5-million/#commentsFinally, Nintendo has been able to make a little money from New Super Mario Bros. Wii, a sequel to one of its old franchises, released this November. Nintendo of Australia announced that as the result of a federal court settlement, one Australian will be required to pay $1.5 million ($1.3 million USD) to Nintendo for loss of revenue due. This person was allegedly the first to upload New Super Mario Bros. Wii to the internet, doing so on November 6, one week before the game was released (an act that facilitated creative works in addition to piracy).

Not only is this bad news for this one guy, it should also serve as a warning to other would-be pirates. "Upon the game being uploaded to the Internet, Nintendo was able to employ the use of sophisticated technological forensics to identify the individual responsible for illegally copying the file and making it available for further distribution," Nintendo said in a press release. "On 23 November, 2009, Nintendo obtained a Federal Court search order in respect of the individual's residential premises. This led to the seizure of property from those premises in order to gain further evidence against the individual."

If you upload Nintendo games, the company will come to your house and take your stuff. Chilling.

[Thanks, Foetoid]

JoystiqNintendo Australia fines NSMB Wii uploader $1.5 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australianew-super-mario-bros-wiinintendo-australiapiracyTue, 09 Feb 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Discounted: Brand new Tony Hawk Ride at ... Goodwill?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/discounted-brand-new-tony-hawk-ride-at-goodwill/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/discounted-brand-new-tony-hawk-ride-at-goodwill/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/discounted-brand-new-tony-hawk-ride-at-goodwill/#commentsIt may seem at this point that we're kicking an already downed and plenty insulted victim here, but we couldn't help but note the shockingly low price of a Tony Hawk: Ride bundle -- complete with board, unopened -- discovered by Gamertell at an Arlington Heights, Il. Goodwill store. Two Wii versions of the game were on sale for just $74.99 (down from $119.99 MSRP) -- a Goodwill employee said the game's presence could be explained by donations from local retailers, listing Kohls, Sears, Borders, and Target as potential donators. Alright, alright, we'll admit it -- the price drop isn't that steep, but a near $50 difference on a barely four-month-old game sounds pretty decent to us.

Presumably, one of the aforementioned retailers was more interested in the shelf space (and the tax write-off) than waiting for the game's fairly cool sales to heat up. Either way, if you're looking to get your ... ahem ... feet on the game, maybe your local Goodwill could offer a better deal than the other brick-and-mortars, eh?

JoystiqDiscounted: Brand new Tony Hawk Ride at ... Goodwill? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arlington-heightsgoodwillgoodwill-storesillinoissalestony-hawktony-hawk-rideTue, 09 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[We sure hope the new Sonic 4 isn't a remake of this Sonic 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/we-sure-hope-the-new-sonic-4-isnt-a-remake-of-this-sonic-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/we-sure-hope-the-new-sonic-4-isnt-a-remake-of-this-sonic-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/09/we-sure-hope-the-new-sonic-4-isnt-a-remake-of-this-sonic-4/#comments Here's a fun little piece of 16-bit history for you -- did you know that when Sega made its big announcement last week, a game called Sonic 4 had actually been floating around for 14 years? Sure, it's not an official Sonic game, mind you -- it was merely a modded version of the classic Sunsoft SNES platformer Speedy Gonzales: Los Gatos Bandidos. 1UP recently shared the game's illicit history -- a group of Peruvian hackers known as Twin Eagle Group got their hands on the game in 1996, removed all instances of the hasty Mexican mouse, and replaced them with Sega's spiny mascot.

Check out a gameplay clip of the unsanctioned Sonic 4 after the jump. Yeah, it doesn't look great -- but to be fair, Sonic doesn't whip out a gun at any point, nor does he engage in light bestiality, so we guess it has its charms.

[Via Kotaku]

Continue reading We sure hope the new Sonic 4 isn't a remake of this Sonic 4

JoystiqWe sure hope the new Sonic 4 isn't a remake of this Sonic 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hackmodnintendosegasnessonicsonic-4sonic-the-hedgehogTue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VC in Brief: Princess Tomato in Salad Kingdom (NES)]]>http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/vc-in-brief-princess-tomato-in-salad-kingdom-nes/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/vc-in-brief-princess-tomato-in-salad-kingdom-nes/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/vc-in-brief-princess-tomato-in-salad-kingdom-nes/#comments Princess Tomato in Salad Kingdom is your usual text-based adventure game, with a decidedly vegetarian twist. It's tough for us to provide you with a comprehensive look at a genre with so much content -- plus all of the trial-and-error. It wouldn't make for a very comprehensive and enlightening video, however we soldier on. Check out the latest episode of VC in Brief above!
  • Princess Tomato in the Salad Kingdom (NES, 1 player, 500 Wii Points)

Every week, we like to check out what's new on the Virtual Console. We offer these videos as a sort of taste to help you decide whether or not you would want the game in question. We also toss in our own two cents because we're pushy jerks like that.

Joystiq NintendoVC in Brief: Princess Tomato in Salad Kingdom (NES) originally appeared on Joystiq Nintendo on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurehudsonnesprincess-tomatoprincess-tomato-in-salad-kingdomtext-adventurevc-in-briefvirtual-consoleMon, 08 Feb 2010 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Max & the Magic Marker scribbles down March US WiiWare release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/max-and-the-magic-marker-scribbles-down-march-us-wiiware-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/max-and-the-magic-marker-scribbles-down-march-us-wiiware-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/max-and-the-magic-marker-scribbles-down-march-us-wiiware-release/#comments Danish developer Press Play would like to draw everyone's attention to Max & the Magic Marker's US release on WiiWare this March. The game released late last month on European WiiWare for 1,000 Wii Points. M&TMM is currently available in the US, directly from Press Play and digital distributors, for PC and Mac at a suggested price of $20.

With a WiiWare demo for the game uncertain, we suggest you try it over on the official website. We're also drawing a direct link to some gameplay videos here.

JoystiqMax & the Magic Marker scribbles down March US WiiWare release originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>max-and-the-magic-markerpress-playwiiwareMon, 08 Feb 2010 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: Rock Band deal with Viacom only through March 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-rock-band-deal-with-viacom-only-through-fiscal-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-rock-band-deal-with-viacom-only-through-fiscal-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/ea-rock-band-deal-with-viacom-only-through-fiscal-2010/#commentsIf you're wondering where Rock Band 3 is, a year and a half after Rock Band 2 and five months after the launch of The Beatles: Rock Band, it seems EA isn't sure it's going to get to publish it. During an investor conference call, EA execs revealed that the publisher's deal with Viacom (the company that owns MTV, Harmonix, Rock Band and maybe you as well) is only active through fiscal year 2010 (which ends March 31).

Presumably the deal somehow includes the yet-to-be-released Green Day: Rock Band -- but EA's unlikely to announce any more Rock Band games until it knows it has the license locked down for another year.

JoystiqEA: Rock Band deal with Viacom only through March 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaharmonixmtvrock-bandrock-band-2rock-band-3viacomMon, 08 Feb 2010 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2 and EA's Epic shooter slated for early 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/dead-space-2-and-ea-epic-shooter-slated-for-early-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/dead-space-2-and-ea-epic-shooter-slated-for-early-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/dead-space-2-and-ea-epic-shooter-slated-for-early-2011/#comments EA's tentative release schedule for Q4 of its fiscal 2011 (or, as us normal people call it, January-March 2011) contains more than a few intriguing entries. You already heard about the new Dragon Age game -- but listed just below that is an untitled "Shooter from Epic TBA." Of course, this can only mean one thing: Gears of Madden 2012 is within spitting distance of becoming a sweet reality! Wait -- what's that? Oh, right, the listing more likely points to new speculative details about that possible "Bulletstorm" project from Epic's People Can Fly studio. How ... unofficial.

Also listed under the early 2011 releases is Dead Space 2, which EA had previously promised would drop before next March. The excitement level of the remaining games drops off like the deep end of a pool: The list includes (deep breath) a new Need For Speed on consoles and PC (in addition to an apparent Holiday 2010 release), a downloadable "action" game, a new fighting game designated as a "sports" title, a new Hasbro game (more Family Game Night?), and new installments in the Sims and Spore franchises.

JoystiqDead Space 2 and EA's Epic shooter slated for early 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bulletstormdead-spacedead-space-2eaea-sportselectronic-artsfamily-game-nightneed-for-speedpeople-can-flyq1-2011release-datethe-simsMon, 08 Feb 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crysis 2, Sims 3 on consoles, NBA Jam due Holiday 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/crysis-2-sims-3-on-consoles-nba-jam-due-holiday-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/crysis-2-sims-3-on-consoles-nba-jam-due-holiday-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/crysis-2-sims-3-on-consoles-nba-jam-due-holiday-2010/#comments Thanks to today's EA earnings report (EArnings?) we're starting to get an idea of how the company's holiday season is going to shape up. This is all subject to change, of course, but as of right now it would appear you can look forward to Crysis 2, NBA Jam and EA Sports MMA sometime between October and December of 2010.

Filling out the holiday quarter are some yet-to-be-formally-announced titles like The Sims 3 on consoles, a new Need For Speed game (perhaps the Criterion-developed one?) and a new Harry Potter game (likely tied to this November's Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I). Want to come up with your own wild speculation? Peruse the list here.

JoystiqCrysis 2, Sims 3 on consoles, NBA Jam due Holiday 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>criterioncrysis-2eaea-sports-mmaharry-potternba-jamneed-for-speedq4-2010release-datesims-3Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[This Week on the Nintendo Channel: Nintendo Week rips the lid off of it]]>http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-nintendo-week-rips-the-lid-of/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-nintendo-week-rips-the-lid-of/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-nintendo-week-rips-the-lid-of/#comments We usually don't buy into Nintendo Week's particular brand of family-friendly hype generation -- after all, this is a Nintendo-funded program and we'll be damned if we're going to let The Man tell us what we're going to like. But this week's update on the Nintendo Channel is pretty amusing, especially if you enjoy fake mustaches, fourth wall destruction and tips on playing New Super Mario Bros. Wii. Or, you know, ripping the lids off various things.

Head past the break for this week's content.

Continue reading This Week on the Nintendo Channel: Nintendo Week rips the lid off of it

Joystiq NintendoThis Week on the Nintendo Channel: Nintendo Week rips the lid off of it originally appeared on Joystiq Nintendo on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>new-super-mario-brosnew-super-mario-bros-wiinintendo-channelnintendo-weekMon, 08 Feb 2010 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Retailers still receiving Wiis, demand outpacing slowed supply]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/retailers-still-receiving-wiis-demand-outpacing-slowed-supply/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/retailers-still-receiving-wiis-demand-outpacing-slowed-supply/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/retailers-still-receiving-wiis-demand-outpacing-slowed-supply/#comments There's no question: retail has a serious lack of Wiis, once again. Yes, this is 2010, but you wouldn't be wrong in thinking it feels more like 2008. Following up on several tips over the past month about online and retail Wii "shortages," the best we can discover is that supply is still coming in to retailers, but that demand is exceeding it -- it's that same old Wii song we've heard for years.

"We're still getting [Wii] in, but it's just slow. We've tried getting more from other stores in our district, but we're just selling out too fast," a Best Buy employee told Joystiq. One GameStop manager claimed this supply issue happens every year after Christmas and estimated things will get better in mid-February. Other retailers echoed: supply is still coming in, but selling out fast. Online stores, like Amazon and NewEgg, aren't faring any better.

We've requested comment from Nintendo a couple times on this issue, but the House of Mario is staying mum. We've also requested official comment from all the major retailers, but have not received a response. If you know someone looking for a Wii, the best we can do is repeat the same advice we've been giving for years: just keep calling your local retailer and ask when it'll receive more stock.

JoystiqRetailers still receiving Wiis, demand outpacing slowed supply originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessnintendoretailshortagewiiMon, 08 Feb 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dress like AiAi for Super Monkey Ball Step & Roll]]>http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/dress-like-aiai-for-super-monkey-ball-step-and-roll/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/dress-like-aiai-for-super-monkey-ball-step-and-roll/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/dress-like-aiai-for-super-monkey-ball-step-and-roll/#commentsThough you could just buy a Chiquita banana and call it authentic Super Monkey Ball: Step & Roll merchandise, Sega Europe has created some new swag that won't rot and won't result in any comedic pratfalls. The publisher has printed up some replica shirts as worn by AiAi, complete with printed backpack, as a promotional item for Step & Roll.

The only known way to get hold of one of these delightful items is through Sega's Free Stuff Friday contest (follow @sega on Twitter and message back key phrases at the right time on Fridays). Just add some cinnamon roll ears and a giant plastic bubble, and you'll be all set for Halloween!

Joystiq NintendoDress like AiAi for Super Monkey Ball Step & Roll originally appeared on Joystiq Nintendo on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiaimerchandisesegashirtsuper-monkey-ballsuper-monkey-ball-step-and-rollMon, 08 Feb 2010 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto mentions new hardware, new MotionPlus games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/miyamoto-mentions-new-hardware-new-motionplus-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/miyamoto-mentions-new-hardware-new-motionplus-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/miyamoto-mentions-new-hardware-new-motionplus-games/#comments
[GAME Watch]
During an acceptance speech at the Japan Media Arts Festival this past weekend, Shigeru Miyamoto casually referred to unannounced Nintendo hardware and at least one new Wii project he's working on, which uses the MotionPlus peripheral. Of course, since Miyamoto wasn't making any formal announcements, that's all he said on those fronts, according to Andriasang's summary of a 4Gamer report.

Miyamoto was onstage accepting a Special Achievement Prize when he revealed that, in addition to Zelda, he's working on an unspecified number of other projects that use MotionPlus. While unconfirmed, the "Special Achievement" might have been awarded for Miyamoto's work in the field of vague announcements.

[Via Andriasang]

JoystiqMiyamoto mentions new hardware, new MotionPlus games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hardwarejapanjapan-media-arts-festivalmiyamotomotionplusshigeru-miyamotoMon, 08 Feb 2010 15:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 2 remains atop UK charts, Dante debuts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/mass-effect-2-remains-atop-uk-charts-dante-debuts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/mass-effect-2-remains-atop-uk-charts-dante-debuts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/mass-effect-2-remains-atop-uk-charts-dante-debuts/#comments Mass Effect 2 has maintained the top spot on Chart-Track's UK all-formats sales chart for a second week in a row. However, there seems to be some kind of Batarian flu loose on the isles, because Mass Effect 2 sales, which dropped by 64 percent this week, were "within touching distance" (850 units, to be exact) of Wii's Just Dance. Rounding out the unchanged top three for a second week was Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2.

EA's Dante's Inferno had one hell of a premiere on the charts, earning a somewhat sinful spot at fourth. In a good sign for MAG, the mega shooter slipped only three notches to seventh place. Meanwhile, the surprise return of other BioWare game Dragon Age: Origins to the top 40 last week has gained even more momentum, moving up another three spots to 28th.

Source - Mass Effect 2 leads an unchanged top 3 [GFK Chart-Track]
Source - Latest UK Software Charts [GFK Chart-Track]

JoystiqMass Effect 2 remains atop UK charts, Dante debuts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britainchart-trackjust-dancemass-effect-2ukMon, 08 Feb 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA['All-Star Karate' for Wii will teach you how to hit stuff]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/all-star-karate-for-wii-will-teach-you-how-to-hit-stuff/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/all-star-karate-for-wii-will-teach-you-how-to-hit-stuff/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/all-star-karate-for-wii-will-teach-you-how-to-hit-stuff/#commentsNo, you won't learn who the stars of karate are by playing THQ's All-Star Karate. Rather than a licensed game featuring the biggest names in martial arts, All-Star Karate is a fighting game in the same casual Wii series as All-Star Cheer Squad. And though the final product may not turn out to be to everyone's tastes, there's something about a casual-oriented fighting game that sounds fascinating. Or, it would sound fascinating if not for all the minigames.

All-Star Karate uses the Wiimote and optional MotionPlus for motion-based karate moves in training. That training can then be put to the test in the Challenge Mode. Also neat (and likely to be overshadowed by the minigame-ness of the whole thing): a kata editor that lets you put together your own choreographed demonstration.

All-Star Karate will be available this spring. Beware of the stinky socks!

Joystiq'All-Star Karate' for Wii will teach you how to hit stuff originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-star-karatecasualfightingkarateminigamesplay-thqthqMon, 08 Feb 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Now Playing: February 8-14, 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/now-playing-february-8-14-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/now-playing-february-8-14-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/now-playing-february-8-14-2010/#comments
Just relax -- you might feel a slight pinch.

Choose your platform to jump to a specific release list:

Last updated: Tuesday, 4:11 PM

Continue reading Now Playing: February 8-14, 2010

JoystiqNow Playing: February 8-14, 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>newgamesnow-playingMon, 08 Feb 2010 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Take heed of these new Calling screens]]>http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/take-heed-of-these-new-calling-screens/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/take-heed-of-these-new-calling-screens/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/take-heed-of-these-new-calling-screens/#comments
Click image to scare up larger screens

Hudson's banking that you'll want to sample its brand of "traditional survival-horror" in Calling. Make all of the jokes you want about the game's phoney nature; what we've seen so far is downright creepy. And in the interest of getting your week off on a frightful foot, we've rummaged around in Hudson's creepy old mansion to secure some more screens, which you can find in the gallery below.

Joystiq NintendoTake heed of these new Calling screens originally appeared on Joystiq Nintendo on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>callinghudsonscreenssurvival-horrorMon, 08 Feb 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Let's all analyze this new Pokemon's silhouette]]>http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/lets-all-analyze-this-new-pokemons-silhouette/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/lets-all-analyze-this-new-pokemons-silhouette/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/lets-all-analyze-this-new-pokemons-silhouette/#comments We apologize for any and all spelling or grammatical errors this post may contain. We're not at our usual razor-sharp level of literary acuity this morning, due to the fact that we stayed up all night to analyze the image you see above. According to Siliconera, that silhouetted figure up there is the first new fifth-generation Pokémon, and we need to know what it is. We'll find out during the February 21 episode of Pokémon Sunday -- but we both know that we can't be expected to wait that long.

So, let's just start riffing. It looks bipedal, right? That could indicate that it's a fighting-type -- then again, look at its plumage. Kinda looks like the trappings of a fire-type, doesn't it? Then again, it could just as easily be a new evolution of Lucario! Or -- wait, you know what it actually resembles? Our shame.

Joystiq NintendoLet's all analyze this new Pokemon's silhouette originally appeared on Joystiq Nintendo on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fifth-generationgame-freaknintendopokemonpokemon-sundayteaserMon, 08 Feb 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lego Star Wars III: The Clone Wars marching to multiple platforms this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/lego-star-wars-iii-the-clone-wars-marching-to-multiple-platforms/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/lego-star-wars-iii-the-clone-wars-marching-to-multiple-platforms/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/lego-star-wars-iii-the-clone-wars-marching-to-multiple-platforms/#comments And here we thought the well of Lego Star Wars material had dried up. Perhaps we've underestimated TT Games, which has revealed that it's constructing a new armed and fully operational entry in the series: Lego Star Wars III: The Clone Wars. Destined for an Autumn 2010 release on the Xbox 360, PS3, PSP, Nintendo DS and Wii, the game will focus on the events of the Cartoon Network animated series, Star Wars: The Clone Wars.

Expect "brand new battle modes, giving players unique, head-to-head combat" and an expanded level editor, allowing potential Padawans and Seperatists the chance to construct their own "customized bases and in-game battlefields." You'll also be able to employ new tactics throughout the game, such as "Squad command, Lightsaber slicing, Lightsaber jumps, long distance Jedi attacks and Grapple Tie-Ups."

Wait, lightsaber slicing? Does that mean the obvious, or the radical ability to slice through lightsabers?

JoystiqLego Star Wars III: The Clone Wars marching to multiple platforms this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>legolego-star-warsstar-warstt-gamesMon, 08 Feb 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NintendoWare Weekly: Blaster Master Overdrive, Princess Tomato, Fieldrunners]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/nintendoware-weekly-blaster-master-overdrive-princess-tomato/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/nintendoware-weekly-blaster-master-overdrive-princess-tomato/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/nintendoware-weekly-blaster-master-overdrive-princess-tomato/#commentsThere's a wide selection of downloads available on Wii and DSi this week -- including stuff that people might have heard of before and/or be interested in! Two days after its reveal, the new Blaster Master game is available on WiiWare, along with Hudson's Princess Tomato, a somewhat forgotten NES oddity. And DSiWare has the iPhone hit Fieldrunners and a new puzzle game by Intelligent Systems. Read about all ten (!) new games after the break.

Continue reading NintendoWare Weekly: Blaster Master Overdrive, Princess Tomato, Fieldrunners

JoystiqNintendoWare Weekly: Blaster Master Overdrive, Princess Tomato, Fieldrunners originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blaster-master-overdrivebloonsdsiwareextreme-hangmanfieldrunnershubert-the-teddy-bear-winter-gameslink-n-launchnintendoware-weeklyoscar-in-movielandprincess-tomatosudoku-4pocketstomena-sannertomenasanner-wiivirtual-consolewiiwareMon, 08 Feb 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sakamoto: Other M shows 'human side' of Samus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/sakamoto-other-m-shows-human-side-of-samus/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/sakamoto-other-m-shows-human-side-of-samus/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/sakamoto-other-m-shows-human-side-of-samus/#comments Other than knowing it's a thing, details of Nintendo and Team Ninja's collabrotive effort to bring Samus back into 2D space in Metroid: Other M are slim. In the current issue of Famitsu, a one-page interview with Metroid co-creator Yoshio Sakamoto didn't reveal much in the way of new information but the legendary creator did say the upcoming game will focus on Samus Aran's "human side."

The complete Metroid: Other M experience is being produced by three teams: Nintendo will continuously peek over the shoulder of Team Ninja (presumably to ensure very few bouncy-bikini shots appear in the final game) while D-Rockets will handle the title's movie sequences. The computer-generated movie sequences in Metroid: Other M are one of the methods Sakamoto says players will learn more about Samus Aran's emotional side. "She's a strong woman, but she also has a fragile side. We want to make a game whose charms can be felt from the story areas and these human touches as well," he said.

Before you begin to cringe, Sakamoto clarified that he's well aware of the core of the Metroid franchise. "It's an action game, but it's capable of having a clear emotional side." Emotionality that you can view, after the break. Metroid: Other M is expected to hit the Wii later this year.

Continue reading Sakamoto: Other M shows 'human side' of Samus

JoystiqSakamoto: Other M shows 'human side' of Samus originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d-rocketsmetroidmetroid-other-mnintendoteam-ninjayoshio-sakamotoSat, 06 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sunsoft announces Blaster Master: Overdrive, coming to WiiWare next week [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/sunsoft-announces-blaster-master-overdrive-coming-to-wiiware-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/sunsoft-announces-blaster-master-overdrive-coming-to-wiiware-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/06/sunsoft-announces-blaster-master-overdrive-coming-to-wiiware-n/#comments Oh, Sunsoft, you shouldn't have. Here we were, thinking no news from this day would cause our hearts to swell in our chests, sending us into fits of nostalgic joy. Then you come along and announce that a new installment in the long-dormant Blaster Master franchise not only exists, but is coming out in two days.

Yes, according to a recent Sunsoft press release, Monday's WiiWare update will see the addition of Blaster Master: Overdrive, a sequel to the NES classic, priced at 1000 Wii Points. Like the original, Overdrive features both side-scrolling and top-down action sequences. Looking at the images posted on Sunsoft's official site, it certainly seems to retain the same charm of the first game -- if it also preserves the original Blaster Master's completely awesome theme song, we might not be able to stop ourselves from purchasing the game two or three times over.

Update: We've added the trailer after the break in all it's YouTube glory.

Continue reading Sunsoft announces Blaster Master: Overdrive, coming to WiiWare next week [update]

JoystiqSunsoft announces Blaster Master: Overdrive, coming to WiiWare next week [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementblaster-masterblaster-master-overdriverelease-datesunsoftwiiwareSat, 06 Feb 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Industry survey shows iPhone growth, console development preference]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/industry-survey-shows-iphone-growth-console-development-prefere/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/industry-survey-shows-iphone-growth-console-development-prefere/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/industry-survey-shows-iphone-growth-console-development-prefere/#comments Alright, alright, calm down -- before you break out the bottle of kerosene for a completely baseless flame war, we're going to point out that the following survey results are from a "comprehensive 55 question survey" of "more than 800 video game professionals from North America and beyond who read Gamasutra, subscribe to Game Developer magazine, or attend Game Developers Conference." We'd also like to note that the not-quite-recovered economy is likely playing a larger role than we can tell at the moment. All that said, the 2009/10 State of Game Development Survey shows that small development houses ("50 employees or fewer") have grown seven percent in the last year -- a statistic pretty much directly tied to the 25 percent of developers now working on "mobile platforms" (nearly 75 percent of which name the iPhone directly).

We're hoping that, by this point in the post, any potential console warriors have moved on and won't notice us pointing out the breakdown of development percentage for each home console. Of the developers working on home consoles, 69 percent said they're developing for Xbox 360, while 61 percent claimed PlayStation 3. Maybe more interestingly, Wii console development dropped from 42 percent of respondents last year to 30 percent this year. Soft sales of third-party Wii titles last year likely didn't help to persuade devs to work with Nintendo. We'll see how that translates to the console's releases in the coming year.

JoystiqIndustry survey shows iPhone growth, console development preference originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developmentgame-industrystate-of-game-development-surveystate-of-game-development-survey-2009-10statisticssurveyFri, 05 Feb 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Phoenix Wright delivering Justice for All on February 15]]>http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/phoenix-wright-delivering-justice-for-all-on-february-15/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/phoenix-wright-delivering-justice-for-all-on-february-15/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/phoenix-wright-delivering-justice-for-all-on-february-15/#commentsCapcom originally planned to release its WiiWare ports of the Phoenix Wright games every other month. However, the publisher today announced that the court date for the second game, Justice For All, has been moved up a month, and will now be available on WiiWare in North America on February 15 (February 19 in Europe).

If you're playing through the series for the first time on WiiWare, this will be your first opportunity to meet Franziska von Karma, a brilliant young prosecutor who attacks every person she meets with a whip. Somehow, she missed out on the whole "assault = illegal" thing in law school.

Joystiq NintendoPhoenix Wright delivering Justice for All on February 15 originally appeared on Joystiq Nintendo on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurecapcomjustice-for-allphoenix-wrightphoenix-wright-ace-attorney-justice-for-allwiiwareFri, 05 Feb 2010 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[High Voltage Studios reveals The Grinder to be multiplatform]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/high-voltage-studios-reveals-the-grinder-to-be-multiplatform/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/high-voltage-studios-reveals-the-grinder-to-be-multiplatform/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/high-voltage-studios-reveals-the-grinder-to-be-multiplatform/#comments Speaking exclusively with IGN, The Conduit developer High Voltage Studios has revealed its upcoming game The Grinder to be heading to the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC, as well as the Nintendo Wii. Previously announced as another of HVS' exclusive games for the Wii aimed at teh hardcorez, the game will now end up on every console, which "allows us [High Voltage] to show off what our company can really do and get it into the hands of the most gamers."

While we're inclined to argue that most gamers' hands are in possession of a Wiimote and Nunchuk (at least that's what the numbers tell us), moving to the other consoles is a fairly understandable choice given the relatively low sales of HVS' previous Wiisclusive title. "We are extremely proud of the sales for The Conduit, with over 350,000 copies sold, numerous 'best-of 2009' nods, and over a million hours played according to the Nintendo Channel," noted CEO Kerry Ganofsky. From the interview, it appears that the studio's proprietary game engine ("Quantum 3") will also be heading to the other consoles. Does that mean a Conduit port to the 360 and PS3 is in the cards? Hopefully we'll find out when we next see HVS at the Game Developer's Conference this March. In the meantime, we've embedded a new trailer after the break.

Continue reading High Voltage Studios reveals The Grinder to be multiplatform

JoystiqHigh Voltage Studios reveals The Grinder to be multiplatform originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eric-nosfingergrinderhigh-voltagehigh-voltage-studioskerry-ganofskythe-conduitthe-grinderFri, 05 Feb 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[European Nintendo downloads: Excitebike World Challenge, Final Fight 3]]>http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/european-nintendo-downloads-excitebike-final-fight-3/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/european-nintendo-downloads-excitebike-final-fight-3/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/european-nintendo-downloads-excitebike-final-fight-3/#commentsExcitebike World Rally, having just been released in Japan this week, is now available in Europe, ready to delight players with online, tilt-controlled classic motorcycle racing. Final Fight 3 is also out in Europe this week, with classic dude-punching. We're starting to wonder -- is the worldwide Virtual Console release of Final Fight 3 some kind of abstract promotion for Super Street Fighter IV, which features characters and locales that originated in the Final Fight series? Or is it the Wii's equivalent of Final Fight Double Impact?
  • Final Fight 3 (Virtual Console: SNES, 1-2 players, 800 Wii Points)
  • "Aha! I Found It!" Hidden Object Game (WiiWare, 1-4 players, 500 Wii Points)
  • Excitebike World Challenge (WiiWare, 1-4 players, 1,000 Wii Points)
  • Snakenoid (DSiWare, 1 player, 500 DSi Points)

Joystiq NintendoEuropean Nintendo downloads: Excitebike World Challenge, Final Fight 3 originally appeared on Joystiq Nintendo on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aha-i-found-it-hidden-object-gamedsiwareeuropeexcitebike-world-rallyfinal-fight-3fridaysnakenoidvirtual-consolewiiwareFri, 05 Feb 2010 12:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Quest VI remake approaches 1m Japanese sales in first week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/dragon-quest-vi-remake-approaches-1-million-japanese-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/dragon-quest-vi-remake-approaches-1-million-japanese-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/dragon-quest-vi-remake-approaches-1-million-japanese-sales/#commentsThe debut of the Dragon Quest VI remake for DS proves that a Dragon Quest game doesn't have to be entirely new to sell like crazy in Japan -- just new enough. In its first week at retail, January 25-31, the new version of the classic Super Famicom RPG sold 906,458 copies, according to Media Create, making it by far the top-selling game of the week.

A pair of other newly-released RPGs also did quite well: the PS3 version of tri-Ace's shooty-RPG End of Eternity (we call it "Resonance of Fate") landed in second place on the weekly software chart with 118,088 units sold (the Xbox version charted respectably at #8, selling 27,048 units) and Ar Tonelico 3 hit #4 with 81,633 copies sold. Even the Japanese release of MAG managed to make it into the top ten!

See the complete weekly top ten sales list after the break.

Continue reading Dragon Quest VI remake approaches 1m Japanese sales in first week

JoystiqDragon Quest VI remake approaches 1m Japanese sales in first week originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ar-tonelico-3dragon-questdragon-quest-vijapanmagmedia-createresonance-of-fatesalessoftwareFri, 05 Feb 2010 11:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Bayonetta moves 1.1m units in Sega fiscal Q3 2010 results]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/bayonetta-moves-1-1-million-units-in-sega-fiscal-q3-2010-results/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/bayonetta-moves-1-1-million-units-in-sega-fiscal-q3-2010-results/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/bayonetta-moves-1-1-million-units-in-sega-fiscal-q3-2010-results/#comments After surviving harrowing losses of ¥22.8 billion (nearly $254.8 million) during its fiscal year 2009, Sega Sammy Holdings (parent company to Sega, which you've probably sussed out) has managed to revive its faltering bottom line. According to the company's latest financial report, Sega Sammy brought in a net income of ¥16.9 billion ($189.5 million) during the first nine months of its fiscal 2010 (April-December 2009).

This income came in spite of the fact that Sega's total game sales had dropped 13 percent from the same 9-month period the previous fiscal year -- however, thanks to the company's massive restructuring last February, operating income skyrocketed to ¥28.8 billion (about $323 million), which more than softened the blow. The company's highest-selling title was, alarmingly, Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games, with 5.6 million units sold (and probably counting). Bayonetta, which was only available in Japan (released October 29) during the period covered by the report, came in a distant second with 1.1 million units sold.

It looks like the company's managed to recover from an extremely painful fiscal 2009 -- at a cost.

JoystiqBayonetta moves 1.1m units in Sega fiscal Q3 2010 results originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bayonettafinancial-reportmario-and-sonic-at-the-olympic-winter-gamessalessegasega-sammysoftwareFri, 05 Feb 2010 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Teens like video games (and other stuff you don't get)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/teens-like-video-games-and-other-stuff-you-dont-get/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/teens-like-video-games-and-other-stuff-you-dont-get/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/teens-like-video-games-and-other-stuff-you-dont-get/#comments
[Stand Up For America]
Your teenage daughter and/or son aren't kidding around when they say you just don't get it. You really don't. You're not a teenager. You don't know everything like they do. And one of the things they know is that video games are the bomb. The kids still say that, right?

Anyway, according to a recent Pew Internet & American Life Project study (via MSNBC), 80 percent of teenagers between the ages of 12 and 17 own a gaming console and that around 51 percent of those in the same age group own a portable gaming device. "While younger and older teens are equally likely to have a game console, boys are more likely than girls to have one," the study reads, pointing out that 89 percent of boys have a gaming console compared to 70 percent of girls.

The study itself focuses mostly on the internet and how the young are connecting (hint: they like laptops and -- wait, MySpace?), but it's a good read if you're looking to get in touch with the youngsters.

[Via Edge]

JoystiqTeens like video games (and other stuff you don't get) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-ownershipconsolesportablestudyteenagersFri, 05 Feb 2010 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band Weekly: Megadeth's 'Rust in Peace,' The Who mashed-up]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/rock-band-weekly-megadeths-rust-in-peace-the-who-mashed-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/rock-band-weekly-megadeths-rust-in-peace-the-who-mashed-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/rock-band-weekly-megadeths-rust-in-peace-the-who-mashed-up/#comments Hey, Rock Band aficionados! Are you ready to spend your hard-earned Microsoft Points, Wii Points or good old-fashioned cash money on tracks which you'll never be able to play without injuring your tender, fragile metacarpals? Brace your bones -- the Music Store is about to get a healthy dose of Megadeth, in the form of the outfit's 1990 album "Rust in Peace." Or, as it's more commonly known, "The one with 'Hangar 18' on it."

The nine-track album will be available for $14.99 (1200, bundle not available on Wii), and can also be purchased piecemeal for $1.99 (160, 200 Wii Points) per track. In addition, the Who's "Super Bowl S-mashup" medley will be made available on Sunday after the big game for $1.99 (160, 200 Wii Points).

Check out all the songs included in next week's update after the jump.

Continue reading Rock Band Weekly: Megadeth's 'Rust in Peace,' The Who mashed-up

JoystiqRock Band Weekly: Megadeth's 'Rust in Peace,' The Who mashed-up originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcharmonixmegadethmtv-gamesmusicrhythmrock-bandrock-band-2rock-band-weeklyThu, 04 Feb 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Play The Who's Super Bowl halftime performance in Rock Band [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/play-the-whos-super-bowl-halftime-performance-in-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/play-the-whos-super-bowl-halftime-performance-in-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/play-the-whos-super-bowl-halftime-performance-in-rock-band/#comments
[NFL]
If you want to play a bunch of songs by The Who in Rock Band in a manner that satisfies your minute attention span, and do so soon, MTV and Harmonix just made an announcement that will delight you (however briefly). Alternately, you're going to be thrilled if you want to capture some Super Bowl magic in your living room.

On Sunday, February 7, The Who will play a 15-song medley during the Super Bowl's halftime show, and Rock Band will feature that same medley as a $2 download the same day (on Xbox 360 and Wii, anyway -- the PS3 version will arrive later). The identities of the songs contained in the medley will be unknown until the Super Bowl performance, but, really, they're all good.

Yeaahhhhhhhhh!

[Update: We mistakenly identified the "S-mashup" as consisting of the 15 songs listed in the press release. It is actually a medley of unannounced songs. We apologize for the error.]

JoystiqPlay The Who's Super Bowl halftime performance in Rock Band [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcharmonixmtv-gamesrock-bandsuper-bowlsuper-bowl-s-mashupthe-whoThu, 04 Feb 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii and DS versions of Ivy the Kiwi? revealed]]>http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/wii-and-ds-versions-of-ivy-the-kiwi-revealed/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/wii-and-ds-versions-of-ivy-the-kiwi-revealed/http://nintendo.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/wii-and-ds-versions-of-ivy-the-kiwi-revealed/#commentsPrope and publisher Bandai Namco sent out the first screens and footage (after the break) of the new Wii and DS versions of the once-Windows Mobile exclusive Ivy the Kiwi?, thus forcing us to fill another post with question marks? Okay, we didn't need that one.

The presentation on the console versions of the game is identical to the original, with the unusual sepia-tone color scheme and hand-drawn backgrounds. Both new versions double the number of levels, bringing the game up to a total of 100. And both new versions have multiplayer: local download play on DS and splitscreen on Wii. And, of course, the DS has a map screen. Why not?

Continue reading Wii and DS versions of Ivy the Kiwi? revealed

Joystiq NintendoWii and DS versions of Ivy the Kiwi? revealed originally appeared on Joystiq Nintendo on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionivy-the-kiwijapannamco-bandaiportpropepuzzleThu, 04 Feb 2010 16:15:00 EST