Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA['Project Unity' is 15 fully-functional consoles in one giant box]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/13/project-unity-is-15-fully-functional-consoles-in-one-giant-box/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/13/project-unity-is-15-fully-functional-consoles-in-one-giant-box/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/13/project-unity-is-15-fully-functional-consoles-in-one-giant-box/#comments
Constructed by evil genius/mad scientist/hardware hacker Bacteria, Project Unity is a single, unified gaming console that can play Sega Master System, Neo Geo MVS, GameCube, Dreamcast, Saturn, Intellivision, Colecovision, Atari 7800, Turbografx 16, PS1/PS2, Mega Drive, NES, Super NES, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo 64 and Amstrad GX4000 games.

Project Unity's most impressive feature, besides the fact that it works, is that it was constructed entirely out of authentic hardware and does not make use of emulators or combo units like the FC Twin. It also manages to use a single power supply, video output and custom-built controller, regardless of the system selected.

Jump to 09:30 in the video above for a demonstration of this behemoth in action, including the repurposed NES cartridges that contain different circuit boards for each controller type, or start from the beginning for some deliciously chaotic wiring shots.

Joystiq'Project Unity' is 15 fully-functional consoles in one giant box originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Amstrad-GX4000Atari-7800BacteriaColecovisioncustomDreamcastGame-Boy-AdvanceGameCubeGenesishackingIntellivisionMega-Drivemoddingneo-geo-MVSNESNintendo-64project-unityPS1PS2Saturnsega-master-systemSega-SaturnSNESSuper-NESTurbografx-16Sat, 13 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Father flips Link's gender to make his daughter the heroine]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/father-flips-links-gender-to-make-his-daughter-the-heroine/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/father-flips-links-gender-to-make-his-daughter-the-heroine/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/father-flips-links-gender-to-make-his-daughter-the-heroine/#comments Cool dad flips Zelda pronouns for his daughter's questMaya has really been enjoying The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker. Her father, developer Mike Hoye, says she likes "sailing, scary birds and remembering to be brave," much like Link, the game's protagonist. But girls can go on adventures and rescue their little brothers, too!

To emphasize that, Hoyes altered the game's disk image with a hex editor, changing all of the dialogue references about Link's gender to be feminine. Since all the alternatives had to be exactly the same byte-for-byte length, he used "swordmain" for "swordsman," and "milady" in place of "my lad" and "master." He's provided a patch for the disk image, which you can then load up in a GameCube emulator to play.

The end result of all this hacking is that a little girl gets to see herself as the hero, and find the courage to defeat Ganon in her own little heart. And that makes us feel, just, you know, so ... What? No, we're not crying! Call of Duty, bro! Go have a look at the Wii U pictures again.

JoystiqFather flips Link's gender to make his daughter the heroine originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Nov 2012 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adorabledaughteremulatorfathergamecubeLegend-of-Zelda-2010mayamike-hoyepcromThe-Legend-of-Zelda-Skyward-Swordthe-legend-of-zelda-windwakerThu, 08 Nov 2012 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Alien Hominid has been played 20 million times on Newgrounds]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/alien-hominid-has-been-played-20-million-times-on-newgrounds/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/alien-hominid-has-been-played-20-million-times-on-newgrounds/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/alien-hominid-has-been-played-20-million-times-on-newgrounds/#comments ImageBefore there was, uh, that other game called Alien Hominid (and Castle Crashers), there was the original Alien Hominid, a free browser run-and-gun game that debuted on Newgrounds. And that original game has now surpassed 20 million play sessions, The Behemoth has announced.

The brain child of Tom Fulp and Dan Paladin, Alien Hominid was built in Flash and released on Newgrounds way back in 2002. It would eventually be ported to the GameCube and PS2 in 2004 (and Europe would see Xbox and GameBoy Advance ports), then to Xbox Live Arcade in 2007. Currently, The Behemoth is working on Battleblock Theater.

JoystiqAlien Hominid has been played 20 million times on Newgrounds originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsAlien-Hominidandroiddsfree-to-playgamecubeiosipadiphonemacmicrosoftmobilenewgroundsnintendopcplaystationps3the-behemothwiiwii-uxblaxboxWed, 09 May 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop ending GameCube trade-ins on April 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/gamestop-ending-gamecube-trade-ins-on-april-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/gamestop-ending-gamecube-trade-ins-on-april-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/gamestop-ending-gamecube-trade-ins-on-april-2/#comments Though it's already long past the time you would have gotten any decent store credit for trading in a GameCube or games, the deal's about to get a lot worse. Starting April 2, GameStop will stop taking trade-ins of GameCube hardware, software, or accessories.

It's going to be a bit sad to see the giant stack of Donkey Konga bongo controllers in our local store dwindle without any way for the supply to renew itself. That said, if you want a cheap Donkey Konga controller, now's the time to go secure one.

JoystiqGameStop ending GameCube trade-ins on April 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamecubegamestoptrade-inFri, 23 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Envision: A portable Gamecube sans disc drive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/the-envision-a-portable-gamecube-sans-disc-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/the-envision-a-portable-gamecube-sans-disc-drive/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/08/the-envision-a-portable-gamecube-sans-disc-drive/#comments
One of the main problems faced by hackers and modders creating portable versions of home consoles is, well, portability. Making something you can hold in your hands isn't exactly an easy task, but creating something that also fits in your messenger bag is a tall order, especially when hacking together a handheld version of something with a disc drive.

ModRetro member Jonathan Shine's solution to this problem is as ingenious as it is simple: If the disc drive is too thick, don't use it. The Envision, Shine's homemade portable Gamecube, kicks spinning media to the curb in favor of an SD card loaded with what we're sure are completely legal and legitimate backups of games he already owns. The device measures approximately 1.375 by 6.5 by 4.125 inches and will run for 2 to 3 hours on a single charge. Check out this thread at ModRetro for complete build specs and more pictures of the finished product.

[Thanks, Mason!]

JoystiqThe Envision: A portable Gamecube sans disc drive originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 08 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>customgamecubehackhackerhandheldhomemademodmoddernintendoprotableSun, 08 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The 10 best GameCube exclusives (other than the obvious)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/the-10-best-gamecube-exclusives-other-than-the-obvious/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/the-10-best-gamecube-exclusives-other-than-the-obvious/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/the-10-best-gamecube-exclusives-other-than-the-obvious/#comments Three days ago marked the Xbox's tenth anniversary -- which means today is the GameCube's tenth. Those two systems are emblematic of the rift between "core" and "casual" gaming that formed seemingly around them -- nobody really thought there was a difference in previous generations, but the contrast between the Mountain Dew-green, imposing Xbox and the family-friendly, lunchbox-shaped, honestly adorable GameCube underscored the growing divide.

Just as we did with the Xbox, we're celebrating the GameCube today with a look at ten of its exclusive titles. More of these led to sequels and ports elsewhere, but in almost every case, there was some aspect of the game that never "clicked" away from the GameCube. Oh, and we're not listing the obvious ones. Yes, we all liked Smash Bros. and Zelda. Where's the fun in bringing those up again?

After the break, find an utterly arbitrary list of GameCube games we liked. But first, we have to begin properly: like this.

Continue reading The 10 best GameCube exclusives (other than the obvious)

JoystiqThe 10 best GameCube exclusives (other than the obvious) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybaten-kaitoschibi-robocubivoreDonkey-Kong-Jungle-Beateternal-darknessfinal-fantasy-crystal-chroniclesgamecubemetal-gear-solid-the-twin-snakesmr-driller-drill-landphantasy-star-online-episode-3pn-03Fri, 18 Nov 2011 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart Wii bundle loses GameCube support, just in time for the holidays]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/14/mario-kart-wii-bundle-loses-gamecube-support-just-in-time-for-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/14/mario-kart-wii-bundle-loses-gamecube-support-just-in-time-for-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/14/mario-kart-wii-bundle-loses-gamecube-support-just-in-time-for-t/#comments "Racing fans start your engines, because Nintendo is releasing the ultimate Mario Kart Wii bundle this year," Nintendo's press release reads. Of course this bundle - featuring a black Wii, black Wii Wheel, and a copy of Mario Kart Wii - looks an awful lot like the existing Mario Kart Wii bundle. So what makes this bundle "the ultimate" one? Simple. It's got the "newly-configured" Wii console, of course!

"This new Wii bundle not only offers great value to fans, but introduces a Wii console with a slightly altered configuration, which now stands horizontally, rather than vertically." For those of you just joining us, this new configuration doesn't just limit your console feng shui options; the new console is no longer compatible with GameCube games or accessories. This announcement is UK only for now, but just like the New Super Mario Bros. Wii bundle that introduced the new configuration last month, it looks like Nintendo is systematically gutting GameCube support from its Wii lineup.

JoystiqMario Kart Wii bundle loses GameCube support, just in time for the holidays originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamecubeMario-Kart-Wiimario-kart-wii-bundlenintendowiiMon, 14 Nov 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New European Wii model loses GameCube compatibility]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/new-european-wii-model-loses-gamecube-compatibility/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/new-european-wii-model-loses-gamecube-compatibility/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/new-european-wii-model-loses-gamecube-compatibility/#comments It's officially a trend. One day after Sony introduced a cheaper, less functional PSP for Europe, Nintendo has announced a new "value Wii" for the region, though no price was given. The new Wii, according to Nintendo UK, is designed to sit horizontally instead of vertically (although the original Wii can technically do both, so we aren't sure what the distinction is). The other major alteration is the loss of GameCube backward compatibility -- both games and accessories.

This new model (we've dubbed it the "Wii Jr.") will be released sometime before Christmas, in a bundle with a Wii Remote Plus, Nunchuk, Wii Party and Wii Sports. Other bundles will also be forthcoming. Eurogamer posted the above picture, and also got word from Nintendo that the company will "focus on the new Wii Bundle/s going forward," suggesting it won't coexist with the current model. Bye, GameCube!

JoystiqNew European Wii model loses GameCube compatibility originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europegamecubenintendoredesignSci/Techwiiwii-jrwii-partyWed, 17 Aug 2011 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo marketing exec says GameCube games coming to WiiWare]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/nintendo-marketing-exec-says-gamecube-games-coming-to-wiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/nintendo-marketing-exec-says-gamecube-games-coming-to-wiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/20/nintendo-marketing-exec-says-gamecube-games-coming-to-wiiware/#comments Nintendo Director of Entertainment and Trend Marketing Amber McCollom either outed a major feature of Nintendo's next home console unexpectedly, or she misspoke during an E3 interview. Speaking with Nintendo Gal on the subject of GameCube games not being playable on the upcoming Wii U, McCollom said, "GameCube discs will not be compatible with Wii U, but a number of the games that were playable on GameCube can be downloaded from WiiWare." Oh, really?

During E3, Nintendo admitted that the Wii U would not be able to run GameCube discs like the Wii could, but never said a peep regarding downloadable versions of GameCube games coming to Wii U. It looks like Wii U owners will get a chance to thoroughly employ that variety of storage options at their disposal.

Though McCollom's statement sounds pretty definitive, we remain skeptical, especially given Nintendo's track record with occasionally reneging on hardware/feature claims (how's that Wii DVD playback and USB storage coming along?). We've reached out to Nintendo for confirmation and details, and will update this post if we hear back.

Update: When asked directly to clarify whether the Wii U would offer downloadable GameCube content, Nintendo got back to us with this statement: "To clarify the capabilities of the Wii U system: As correctly stated, Wii U will not play Nintendo GameCube discs, however Nintendo has not made any announcements regarding downloadable content."

JoystiqNintendo marketing exec says GameCube games coming to WiiWare originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amber-mccollomdigital-distributiondownloadable-contentgamecubenintendonintendo-of-americawii-uwiiwareWed, 20 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The CCube puts a GameCube in your (very large) pocket]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/the-ccube-puts-a-gamecube-in-your-very-large-pocket/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/the-ccube-puts-a-gamecube-in-your-very-large-pocket/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/the-ccube-puts-a-gamecube-in-your-very-large-pocket/#comments We've seen portable GameCube mods before, but the CCube (Compact Cube) built by one Jonathan Shine may be the smallest. Created using a GameCube, an old answering machine case, plastic cement and many coats of paint, the project took fifteen months to complete -- much longer than the original two weeks John had estimated.

You'll find a video of the CCube after the break (skip to 2:20 for gameplay). With the disc drive actually located outside the case, it's worth noting that it's a tad on the noisy side, but impressive nonetheless. Then head over to the Mod Retro Forums for a detailed look at the CCube's construction.

Continue reading The CCube puts a GameCube in your (very large) pocket

JoystiqThe CCube puts a GameCube in your (very large) pocket originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccubegamecubehacksJonathan-ShinemodsnintendowiiSat, 26 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Eternal Darkness concept art shows endings that could have been]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/eternal-darkness-concept-art-shows-endings-that-could-have-been/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/eternal-darkness-concept-art-shows-endings-that-could-have-been/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/eternal-darkness-concept-art-shows-endings-that-could-have-been/#comments You have to like Eternal Darkness to work at Joystiq. It's on the application exam (right next to the section on Metal Gear Awesome). As such, it is our duty to share the discovery of some Eternal Darkness concept art on the Behance Network page of John Dobbie, former assistant lead artist for Silicon Knights.

The various pieces depict several endings that never made it into the final game (which ended up with four possible endings). The images depict a zombie apocalypse, giant structures built with human bones and humanity marching directly into the mouth of the lobster-like god, Chattur'gha.

Head over to Dobbie's Behance page to check them out.

JoystiqEternal Darkness concept art shows endings that could have been originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eternal-darknessgamecubenintendowiiTue, 15 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sarcastic announcer Easter egg uncovered in Wave Race: Blue Storm]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/sarcastic-announcer-easter-egg-uncovered-in-wave-race-blue-stor/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/sarcastic-announcer-easter-egg-uncovered-in-wave-race-blue-stor/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/04/sarcastic-announcer-easter-egg-uncovered-in-wave-race-blue-stor/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A NeoGAF forumite going by the moniker "Raoul Duke" recently uncovered a timeworn Easter egg hidden within the folds of the aquatic GameCube racer, Wave Race: Blue Storm -- and appropriately enough, this egg is awfully rotten. By entering in a super-obscure code on the game's audio settings screen, players can change the typically pleasant (and omnipresent) pit crew commenter to a sardonic so-and-so who talks smack about your every action.

You can check out a video of this old-new Easter egg posted just after the jump, or, if you feel like taking a hit to your self-esteem for some reason, you can learn the arcane measures you have to follow to find the secret voice track over on NeoGAF.

Continue reading Sarcastic announcer Easter egg uncovered in Wave Race: Blue Storm

JoystiqSarcastic announcer Easter egg uncovered in Wave Race: Blue Storm originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 Sep 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>easter-egggamecubenintendowave-race-blue-stormwiiSat, 04 Sep 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Portable GameCube hack brings Sunshine everywhere it goes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/portable-gamecube-hack-brings-sunshine-everywhere-it-goes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/portable-gamecube-hack-brings-sunshine-everywhere-it-goes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/portable-gamecube-hack-brings-sunshine-everywhere-it-goes/#comments The disc drive out back may be a bit precariously placed, but 'Hailrazer"'s portable "NCube" reeks of everything we'd want in a handheld version of the last-gen Nintendo console (except for wireless multiplayer, of course). Engadget spotted the 90-hour-in-the-making portable GameCube over on - surprise, surprise! - the Ben Heck forums. A breakdown of the construction process can be found just after the break in video form, though you may want to set up the drool tray now before proceeding.

All set? Alright, now go ahead.

[Via Engadget]

Continue reading Portable GameCube hack brings Sunshine everywhere it goes

JoystiqPortable GameCube hack brings Sunshine everywhere it goes originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-heckengadgetgamecubehailrazerhandheldhandheld-gamecubemodmoddingncubeportableportable-gamecubeMon, 09 Nov 2009 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Resident Evil Archives: Resident Evil Zeroes in on Dec. 1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/resident-evil-archives-resident-evil-zeroes-in-on-december-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/resident-evil-archives-resident-evil-zeroes-in-on-december-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/resident-evil-archives-resident-evil-zeroes-in-on-december-1/#commentsEager to play Resident Evil Zero on the Wii, but not so eager that you've already purchased the GameCube disc? Or the Japanese Wii version that came out in July 2008? Capcom has announced that Resident Evil Archives: Resident Evil Zero will be released in North America on December 1, 2009, at a $29.99 price point. Despite Capcom USA's initial protests, American plans for this re-release were finally revealed in March of this year.

We assume the December release is entirely a marketing decision, as there is already a localization of Resident Evil Zero, made for the identical GameCube game, which means it probably didn't take too long to prepare this, which adds controller support for the Wiimote/Nunchuk and Classic Controller, for North America.

JoystiqResident Evil Archives: Resident Evil Zeroes in on Dec. 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomgamecubeportrelease-dateresident-evilresident-evil-archivesresident-evil-zeroThu, 29 Oct 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The 'control' in New Play Control Chibi Robo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/14/the-control-in-new-play-control-chibi-robo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/14/the-control-in-new-play-control-chibi-robo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/14/the-control-in-new-play-control-chibi-robo/#comments
The next title to get the New Play Control treatment from Nintendo is Chibi Robo, and in being overhauled for Wii, players can expect new point-and-click-based controls, Siliconera reports. Gone are the analog controls of the original GameCube title, as not only will you guide your robotic munchkin around now by pointing your Wiimote where you want him to go, but you will also be tasked with finishing some of Chibi's chores through motion-based gestures. And the shooting scenes from the original? They've been replaced with light gun-like segments, further taking advantage of the Wiimote's ability to point at things.

The game is set for release in Japan on June 11, and no North American release has been mentioned.

JoystiqThe 'control' in New Play Control Chibi Robo originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 May 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chibi-robogamecubenew-play-controlThu, 14 May 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Resident Evil Archives staggers toward June 23 release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/resident-evil-archives-staggers-toward-june-23-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/resident-evil-archives-staggers-toward-june-23-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/28/resident-evil-archives-staggers-toward-june-23-release/#comments
Fans of Resident Evil (and buying the same game multiple times) will be happy to know that Resident Evil Archives -- the official title for the Wii port of a GameCube remake of a PSOne game -- is slated for a June release, Eurogamer reports. Featuring enhanced Wiimote controls and ... enhanced Wiimote controls, the new-for-Wii version of the game will debut in the US on June 23 for $29.99.

JoystiqResident Evil Archives staggers toward June 23 release originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomgamecubeNintendoremakeresident-evilresident-evil-archivesWiiwiimoteTue, 28 Apr 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Adapter turns Classic Controller into GameCube controller]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/adapter-turns-classic-controller-into-gamecube-controller/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/adapter-turns-classic-controller-into-gamecube-controller/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/adapter-turns-classic-controller-into-gamecube-controller/#commentsFrom the "ridiculous level of customization" department: a new device from EMS that removes one small deficiency in the Wii Classic Controller's capabilities: the ability to use it on GameCube games. EMS's Classic Linker allows users to plug a Classic Controller into the GameCube controller slot, allowing it to be used as a GameCube controller. As an added bonus, it also allows the use of PlayStation or PS2 controllers!

The Wii angle is nice, but where we see this being most useful is in an actual GameCube. The Classic Controller's button layout makes it superior even to the Hori Digital Pad for use in the Game Boy Player.

It had better have a longer cord than most controller adapters, because the Classic Controller's little cord doesn't exactly span a room. This accessory is available through Play-Asia for $16.90.

[Thanks, dreganfyre!]

JoystiqAdapter turns Classic Controller into GameCube controller originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adapterclassic-controllerclassic-linkeremsgamecubeTue, 17 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameCube era even depressed Miyamoto]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/gamecube-era-even-depressed-miyamoto/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/gamecube-era-even-depressed-miyamoto/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/gamecube-era-even-depressed-miyamoto/#commentsSometimes, one might assume that super-genius game developers don't think the way that you do, but it's just not so! Take, for instance, Shigeru Miyamoto, who you might know for his work on pure undiluted joy. He recently told Japanese mag Famitsu that several aspects of the way Nintendo operated during the N64 and GameCube years made him "very sad." Hey, Shiggy, us too!

Of course, we probably have slightly different reasoning. Miyamoto complained about the company trying to follow its competitors during that era, saying, "I was endlessly fascinated with 3D worlds, but what with all the issues I had to tinker with in terms of rendering and processing speed, it got to the point where I didn't know who was making the games any longer." We would have more simply said that "a lot of games for those systems were very, very bad," but it's nice to know the big guy gets where we're coming from.

JoystiqGameCube era even depressed Miyamoto originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Mar 2009 09:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSgamecubemiyamoton64Nintendoshigeru-miyamotoWiiThu, 12 Mar 2009 09:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii on track to beat PS2, PS3 selling like GameCube]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/wii-on-track-to-beat-ps2-ps3-selling-like-gamecube/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/wii-on-track-to-beat-ps2-ps3-selling-like-gamecube/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/wii-on-track-to-beat-ps2-ps3-selling-like-gamecube/#commentsFiled under:


The fine folks at Venture Beat have been pouring over NPD data and have discovered one universal truth: Nintendo has sold a lot of video game consoles. Crazy, huh? We thought the same thing.

A closer dissection of the numbers shows the Wii is on pace to topple the PS2, as the Wii has outsold the PS2's comparable initial sales by 10 percent in its first 26 months of availability. In layman's terms, that means that the PS2's first 26 months on store shelves saw it unloading 15.9 million units in the U.S., whereas the Wii has sold 17.5 million here. If these sales continue, the Wii could sell 55 million consoles in America by 2014 and 154 million units worldwide. When you count up the money, that's like 257 hojillion dollars.

On the reverse side, the PS3 is performing much like Nintendo's last console did, the GameCube. The PS3 has sold 6.79 million units in the U.S. in its first 26 months, which is a hair more than the 6.75 million GameCubes that were unloaded on consumers. Of course, Nintendo finished in third last generation with that console, which made them rethink their approach and, inevitably, succeed this generation.

JoystiqWii on track to beat PS2, PS3 selling like GameCube originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessgamecubenpdps2ps3salessalesfiguressonysony-ps2sony-ps3Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Patent shows Wiimote was originally a GameCube peripheral]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/patent-shows-wiimote-was-originally-a-gamecube-peripheral/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/patent-shows-wiimote-was-originally-a-gamecube-peripheral/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/patent-shows-wiimote-was-originally-a-gamecube-peripheral/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Some new images and details on Nintendo's patent for the Wiimote have surfaced on the net and they show that the original idea was planned for the GameCube. The Wiimote was to attach to the console via an adapter, much like the WaveBird's. But, as you all know, the GameCube ended up going the way of the dodo, and so the Wii was born.

The image to the right shows Mario playing tennis, which is where Nintendo originally got the idea for Wii Sports, we assume, but there's more. Past the break, you can see more diagrams showing how the Wiimote would work with the GameCube, if you're into that kind of thing.

Continue reading Patent shows Wiimote was originally a GameCube peripheral

JoystiqPatent shows Wiimote was originally a GameCube peripheral originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamecubepatentwii-remotewiimoteFri, 09 Jan 2009 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Patent reveals Wii Remote began life as GameCube add-on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/patent-reveals-wii-remote-began-life-as-gamecube-add-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/patent-reveals-wii-remote-began-life-as-gamecube-add-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/patent-reveals-wii-remote-began-life-as-gamecube-add-on/#commentsFiled under: , ,


What's so interesting about the above image? Is it that the man (?) has no eyes? Is it that he's not using the strap on the Wii Remote? No: it's that this isn't a patent drawing for the Wii Remote at all -- it's for a GameCube controller. The original Japanese patent was submitted by Nintendo in 2006, around the time Shigeru Miyamoto admitted, "[Wii] is based on GC."

Now we know its controller was, too, by way of the US Patent and Trademark Office's database, which also contains related drawings. One shows what this line-art person is playing (a tennis game with Mario) and the other is the proverbial smoking gun: a Wii remote and receiver connected to a GameCube, which is, in turn, connected to a TV with sensors attached. Check them out after the break.

[Via Siliconera]

Continue reading Patent reveals Wii Remote began life as GameCube add-on

JoystiqPatent reveals Wii Remote began life as GameCube add-on originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamecubenintendopatentusptowiiwii-remotewiimoteFri, 09 Jan 2009 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Born for Wii: Mario Sunshine]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/born-for-wii-mario-sunshine/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/born-for-wii-mario-sunshine/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/born-for-wii-mario-sunshine/#commentsFiled under:

Now that 2008 is tightly packed away into our memories and the glorious new year is unfolding before our very eyes, we're caught between looking backwards at what 2008 imparted upon us and anticipating what 2009 has to offer. Even though Born for Wii is all about looking backwards, it's hard not to be excited about what this year is bringing to the Wii: in just a couple months, the New Play Control version of Pikmin will be hitting the States, and it will be good times. But we've still got awhile to wait until then, and this week we're highlighting a sorely underappreciated Nintendo game of last generation: Super Mario Sunshine.

Mario Sunshine was released in 2002 as the first real successor to the groundbreaking Mario 64, and it was clear from the beginning that things were going to be a little different. For starters, Mario was on vacation on a tropical island, and soon found himself equipped with a water pack for cleaning up sludge. Though it was generally well-reviewed, Mario Sunshine has since become somewhat of a whipping boy in the fan community, and many claim that it didn't live up to groundbreaking pedigree Mario 64 established years earlier. Mario Galaxy managed to exceed its predecessors in virtually every way possible, but in the end, Sunshine still has things worth going back for. The wonderful tropical locale, the FLUDD-less levels, and some fun water pack puzzles all made Mario Sunshine a worthwhile endeavor, and a New Play Control version would give Nintendo the chance to polish its shortcomings and give Mario the vacation he deserved.

NEXT >>

Every week, Born for Wii digs into gaming's sordid past to unearth a new treasure fit for revival on the Nintendo Wii. Be sure to check out last week's entry in the series, NBA Jam, and for more great titles that deserve your attention, take a look at Virtually Overlooked.

JoystiqBorn for Wii: Mario Sunshine originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>born-for-wiigamecubejoystiqfeaturesmariomario-sunshineplatformerportsuper-mariosuper-mario-sunshineTue, 06 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo serves up Mario Tennis trailers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/nintendo-serves-up-mario-tennis-trailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/nintendo-serves-up-mario-tennis-trailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/nintendo-serves-up-mario-tennis-trailers/#commentsFiled under:

Over at the official site for the Wii de Asobu (Play on Wii, or NEW PLAY CONTROL!) series, there's a pair of Japanese commercials for the Mario Power Tennis remake, as well as a far lengthier gameplay trailer.

The adverts we can take or leave, consisting as they do of the usual telegenic Japanese families bouncing around their pristine living rooms. The gameplay clip is worth watching, as it displays the various shots that can be achieved through a well-timed flick of the wrist (top-spin, side-spin, slices, drop shots, etc.). We hope mixing up our shots actually has an effect on the game, because we always found Wii Sports tennis to be not-quite-as-advertised in this respect (though we're willing to accept we just may be rubbish at Wii Sports tennis).

Oh yes, and these are non-embeddable, so you'll have to go to the site to watch them. And they call this 2009!

Source: TV commercial 1
Source: TV commercial 2
Source: Gameplay trailer

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqNintendo serves up Mario Tennis trailers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamecubemario-power-tennisnew-play-controlplay-on-wiisportstenniswii-de-asobuMon, 05 Jan 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Play Video: Pikmin]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/new-play-video-pikmin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/new-play-video-pikmin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/05/new-play-video-pikmin/#commentsFiled under:


We're way into the New Play Control version of Pikmin. Even eight years after its original release, Pikmin remains one of the fresher and more unusual Nintendo franchise games, and the Wii version only improves on it!

In this video, Wii Folder's Josh Thomas (standing in front of the screen like a weatherman) introduces the game in a manner appropriate for people who have no idea what Pikmin is. While that means a lot of explanation of stuff you know, it also means a ton of game footage (worth seeing even with a dude in front of it), and all the new Wii content is highlighted.

While you're watching previews of Wii remakes on Wii Folder, check out the Klonoa footage!

JoystiqNew Play Video: Pikmin originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamecubenew-play-controlpikminremakestrategyMon, 05 Jan 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nielsen: 2008's most played console was ... PS2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/02/nielsen-2008s-most-played-console-was-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/02/nielsen-2008s-most-played-console-was-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/02/nielsen-2008s-most-played-console-was-ps2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


The Nielsen Company is best known for tracking television viewership, but its quantifying of what people spend their time doing doesn't end there. It also tracks console usage among its selected households, and, for 2008 (January through October, at least), the PlayStation 2 was played more than any other.

According to Nielsen's findings, PS2 accounted for 31.2% of all console usage minutes measured. Xbox 360 was a distant second with 17.2%, followed by Wii (13.4%), the original Xbox (9.7%), PS3 (7.3%), GameCube (4.6%), and "other" (16.2%). The fact that more hours were spent playing the original Xbox than PS3 is, well, surprising. PS2's dominance isn't; last we checked, there were 87.6 bazillion of them in the world (give or take a few trillion).

JoystiqNielsen: 2008's most played console was ... PS2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Jan 2009 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GameCubenielsenPS2PS3statisticsWiiXboxXbox-360Fri, 02 Jan 2009 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Support group time: No 'Zelda' released in 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/support-group-time-no-zelda-released-in-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/support-group-time-no-zelda-released-in-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/31/support-group-time-no-zelda-released-in-2008/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We knew something was missing this year. Turns out TGR triggered what we were longing for when it noted the absence of Legend of Zelda in 2008. In fact, it was the first year since 1999 that we didn't take up Link's sword. Check out a list of the past decade's releases after the break.

Hopefully we'll get a new Zelda next year, but for those who need to talk about the emptiness they feel, please be sure to leave a comment. This is a place of love and support. A place of safety. Feel free to cry.

Continue reading Support group time: No 'Zelda' released in 2008

JoystiqSupport group time: No 'Zelda' released in 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSGameCubelegend-of-zeldalinknintendoWiiWed, 31 Dec 2008 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo opens 'store within store' at Times Square Toys 'R' Us]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/nintendo-opens-store-within-store-at-times-square-toys-r-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/nintendo-opens-store-within-store-at-times-square-toys-r-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/nintendo-opens-store-within-store-at-times-square-toys-r-us/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The Toys "R" Us flagship store in Times Square now features a 1,000 square foot Nintendo department store inside of it. The Nintendo section features a DS bar with eight playable handhelds, a gallery of Nintendo images and is staffed by "Nintendo experts." It's really not that different from what you'd find at the Nintendo World Store, near Rockefeller Plaza.

Although we don't quite get the point of this second store (other than to make loads of money, of course), it certainly speaks to the power of the Nintendo brand ... especially among the TRU demographic.

JoystiqNintendo opens 'store within store' at Times Square Toys 'R' Us originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSGameCubenintendotimes-squaretoys-r-usWiiFri, 19 Dec 2008 08:55:00 EST<![CDATA[New Play Control! New-ish boxart!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/new-play-control-new-ish-boxart/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/new-play-control-new-ish-boxart/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/18/new-play-control-new-ish-boxart/#commentsFiled under:


The packages for the Japanese Play on Wii series feature the original boxarts for the GameCube games framed in a new white border, with a blue bar at the bottom explaining that the games have new Wii Remote-based controls. According to teensy preview images found on GameStop.com, the North American New Play Control! versions of Pikmin and Mario Power Tennis, officially announced just yesterday, will employ the same strategy. As in, exactly the same.

The only difference (aside from the language stuff and the fact that the North American boxart images are used) is that the Play on Wii boxes feature a curved top border in the blue area. If we're lucky, the covers will be reversible like the Japanese ones. We probably won't be that lucky!

We have yet to see the box designs for the European NEW PLAY CONTROL! series. We'll keep you updated, because we love pointing out that the European title for the series seems to officially be NEW PLAY CONTROL! in all caps.

Source: Pikmin
Source: Mario Power Tennis

JoystiqNew Play Control! New-ish boxart! originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxartbreakinggamecubemario-power-tennisnew-play-controlpikminplay-on-wiiThu, 18 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pikmin just got a little more perfect]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/pikmin-just-got-a-little-more-perfect/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/pikmin-just-got-a-little-more-perfect/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/pikmin-just-got-a-little-more-perfect/#commentsFiled under:


It seems we were hasty when we wrote that the "Play on Wii" version of Pikmin would feature "no new content, the modified control scheme aside." The latest Famitsu, as translated by IGN, reveals that the game's save mechanism has also been updated, and now allows you to restart play from any day you please. So, if 98 of your 100 precious plant warriors get singed by a troublesome Fiery Blowhog, you can avert disaster by turning back time. Nice to see Nintendo adding some worthwhile changes to more and more Wii de Asobu titles!

JoystiqPikmin just got a little more perfect originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ch-ch-ch-changesfamitsugamecubemario-tennispikminplay-on-wiiremakesportswii-de-asobuWed, 10 Dec 2008 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: GC vs CC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/wii-warm-up-gc-vs-cc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/wii-warm-up-gc-vs-cc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/02/wii-warm-up-gc-vs-cc/#commentsFiled under:


For games that are compatible with both, which do you find to be your more preferred way to play: using a GameCube controller or the Classic Controller? For us, we tend to go with the wireless bliss of the Wavebird, when allowed. How about you all? Which is the superior way to game in your opinion?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: GC vs CC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic-controllergamecubemortal-kombatTue, 02 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mod turns GameCube controller into a Classic Controller]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/28/mod-turns-gamecube-controller-into-a-classic-controller/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/28/mod-turns-gamecube-controller-into-a-classic-controller/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/28/mod-turns-gamecube-controller-into-a-classic-controller/#commentsFiled under:


This may not be the most groundbreaking mod around, but it's one that would allow you to play things like Mega Man 9 with your GameCube controller. Created by Marcan42, the above mod uses a special adapter which plugs into the Wiimote just like a Classic Controller, allowing him to trick the system into thinking the GameCube controller is a Classic Controller. Check out the video above to watch the mod being used with Mario Kart Wii.


[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqMod turns GameCube controller into a Classic Controller originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Nov 2008 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllercontroller-modgamecubemario-kartmario-kart-wiiFri, 28 Nov 2008 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Surprisingly rare and expensive GameCube games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/surprisingly-rare-and-expensive-gamecube-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/surprisingly-rare-and-expensive-gamecube-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/surprisingly-rare-and-expensive-gamecube-games/#commentsFiled under: ,

We love a lot of GameCube games. In fact, when Play on Wii was announced, it felt like a dream come true. See, we imagine many GameCube games being retooled for Wii. Now, we're glad its actually happening for some of those games.

But, not all titles are destined to get that touch of Wii magic. And, what if you never had a chance to try some of them? Well, unless you've got a suitcase buried in the back yard, there are a few titles that might be a bit out of reach, according to the list over at Video Game Price Charts.

Of all of them, which would you say is the "must own" title?

[Via digg]

JoystiqSurprisingly rare and expensive GameCube games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beyond-good-and-evilgamecubemetal-gear-solidplay-on-wiitwin-snakeswiimoteFri, 21 Nov 2008 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Tennis: How to Play on Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/mario-tennis-how-to-play-on-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/mario-tennis-how-to-play-on-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/mario-tennis-how-to-play-on-wii/#commentsFiled under: ,

We didn't really need help to figure out that Play on Wii Mario Tennis GC (or Mario Power Tennis, as Camelot's mascot tennis game is known over here) would use Wiimote motion controls, since that is, like one hundred percent of the point of the Play on Wii series (and Wii tennis games, for that matter). But we welcome solid information anyway, which Japanese online retailer Neowing has provided.

According to the product description, Mario Tennis GC enables players to wave the Wii Remote to execute forehand and backhand shots and direct the ball toward the left or right side of the court. Motion will also determine the addition of topspin and slice spin. Buttons are still used to deploy each character's unique special moves.

If the (possible) second coming of Wii Sports tennis doesn't excite you, hang on to your GameCube version: Play on Wii Mario Tennis GC does not support GameCube controllers.

[Via Inside-Games]

JoystiqMario Tennis: How to Play on Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 17:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamecubemario-power-tennisplay-on-wiiremakesportstennisTue, 18 Nov 2008 17:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Born for Wii: Cubivore]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/born-for-wii-cubivore/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/born-for-wii-cubivore/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/born-for-wii-cubivore/#commentsFiled under:

Some games are a little out there. You've got your No More Heroes brand of weirdness, where collecting coconuts is as commonplace as mass murder and sexual innuendo. On another level, there's Katamari Damacy, where rolling entire cities into a ball is a perfectly acceptable way to repair the cosmos. And then there are the games that are so bizarre, so inexplicably removed from the norm, that they transcend weirdness in a way few things ever have. One of the games is Cubivore.

Though it was released for the GameCube six years ago, it's still hard to believe that Cubivore found its way to the West. Thanks to Atlus, a company known for publishing titles that don't exactly have mainstream appeal, one of the most inherently Japanese games ever made was displaced from its home turf. Cubivore's eccentricity is also its greatest strength -- those few gamers who weren't turned off by its quirkiness discovered an adventure like no other, a fight to survive and evolve into a stronger, faster animal...thing. Its unique, hilarious, downright fun, and Born for Wii.

NEXT >>

Every week, Born for Wii digs into gaming's sordid past to unearth a new treasure fit for revival on the Nintendo Wii. Be sure to check out last week's entry in the series, Contra, and for more great titles that deserve your attention, take a look at Virtually Overlooked.

JoystiqBorn for Wii: Cubivore originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureatlusborn-for-wiicubivoregamecubejoystiqfeaturesplay-on-wiiweirdTue, 18 Nov 2008 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Play on Wii Donkey Kong has new stages, drastic changes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/play-on-wii-donkey-kong-has-new-stages-drastic-changes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/play-on-wii-donkey-kong-has-new-stages-drastic-changes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/play-on-wii-donkey-kong-has-new-stages-drastic-changes/#commentsFiled under:


According to a Famitsu article translated by IGN, at least one game from Nintendo's forthcoming Play on Wii series will feature deeper modifications than slapped-on Wii controls. We've often questioned how well Donkey Kong Jungle Beat would work with the Wiimote and Nunchuk (given that the original game was played with plastic bongos), and Nintendo also seems unsure.

Because of this, the remade Jungle Beat is being moulded into a more traditional platformer, with repositioned enemies, new mid-level checkpoints, and only a handful of motion-controlled moves (The nunchuk's analog stick moves Donkey Kong, and the A button makes him jump). Significantly, there will also be completely new stages, though Famitsu didn't reveal further details (such as how many). The remake of Pikmin, incidentally, will feature no new content, the modified control scheme aside.

Can Jungle Beat work as a traditional platformer? We'll hold judgment on that, while noting that the DK Bongos played a major role in making the original game fun.

JoystiqPlay on Wii Donkey Kong has new stages, drastic changes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ch-ch-ch-changesdonkey-kongdonkey-kong-jungle-beatgamecubepikminplay-on-wiiremakewii-de-asobuWed, 12 Nov 2008 14:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar Hero franchise tops the charts for '08 (so far)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/guitar-hero-franchise-tops-the-charts-for-08-so-far/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/guitar-hero-franchise-tops-the-charts-for-08-so-far/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/guitar-hero-franchise-tops-the-charts-for-08-so-far/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


As part of today's quarterly financial wrap-up, Activision Blizzard struck a high note with the announcement that the Guitar Hero franchise has topped the NPD Group's software sales chart for the first nine months of 2008. This includes, of course, every permutation of the rhythm game series combined across all console platforms and Nintendo DS, with the exception of the newly released Guitar Hero World Tour.

In its report to shareholders, Blizzivision pointed out that Guitar Hero: Aerosmith and Guitar Hero: On Tour, in particular, contributed most to its bottom line for Q2. With World Tour out in Q3 followed by the holiday release of GH: Decades for the DS, we could see a similar chart-topping performance for the franchise come the end of December.


JoystiqGuitar Hero franchise tops the charts for '08 (so far) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionactivision-blizzardDSfy09GameCubeguitar-heroneversoftnpdPS2PS3q209salesvicarious-visionsXbox-360Wed, 05 Nov 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Born for Wii: Eternal Darkness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/born-for-wii-eternal-darkness/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/born-for-wii-eternal-darkness/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/born-for-wii-eternal-darkness/#commentsFiled under:

It's almost Halloween, gamers: are you ready? For most of us, the approach of Halloween signifies a few things: a chill in the air as winter crawls ever closer, overdosing on candy, and concerned parents fretting over how many razor blades they're going to find lodged in seemingly innocent candy apples. For a few of us, it means wild parties and crazy costumes. But for all of us, it's the season for scares.

Of course, how you get your fair share of hair-raising excitement is up to you, but we here at Nintendo Wii Fanboy think there's a better way for you to spend your time than seeing Saw V this Halloween weekend. Close the blinds, turn off the lights, crank up the sound and settle down with one of the scariest, most original games of last generation: Silicon Knights' Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem. Everyone's favorite purple lunchbox was often criticized as being a kiddie platform to the chagrin of Nintendo fans everywhere, and Eternal Darkness did its best to challenge those claims when it was released in 2002. The game's rich narrative and diverse gameplay were a large part of its appeal (and critical acclaim), but being one of the downright creepiest games of all time sure didn't hurt. For messing with our heads and making us afraid to sleep at night, Eternal Darkness is the scariest game that's ever been Born for Wii.

NEXT >>


Every week, Born for Wii digs into gaming's sordid past to unearth a new treasure fit for revival on the Nintendo Wii. Be sure to check out last week's entry in the series, Discs of Tron, and for more great titles that deserve your attention, take a look at Virtually Overlooked.

JoystiqBorn for Wii: Eternal Darkness originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 11:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>born-for-wiieternal-darknesseternal-darkness-2gamecubenintendoplay-on-wiiportsilicon-knightsTue, 28 Oct 2008 11:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Rogue Squadron compilation locking S-foils in attack position]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/rumor-rogue-squadron-compilation-locking-x-foils-in-attack-posi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/rumor-rogue-squadron-compilation-locking-x-foils-in-attack-posi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/rumor-rogue-squadron-compilation-locking-x-foils-in-attack-posi/#commentsFiled under:


According to the latest issue of EGM, which just arrived in our mail box, Wii owners could be seeing Rogue Squadron make a return to a Nintendo console, as Q from the Rumor Mill is reporting that Lucasarts has licensed out the Rogue Squadron series of games. Sadly, we're not talking about a brand new game, but rather a compilation of the N64 and GameCube titles, all on one Wii disc. With the whole Play on Wii thing, it seems like this has a good chance of becoming true.

Head past the break for the excerpt from the magazine.

Continue reading Rumor: Rogue Squadron compilation locking S-foils in attack position

JoystiqRumor: Rogue Squadron compilation locking S-foils in attack position originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 14:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>egmfactor-5gamecubelucasartsn64play-on-wiirepublicrogue-squadronstar-warsWed, 08 Oct 2008 14:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo dates Pikmin port, names other Play on Wii titles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/nintendo-dates-pikmin-port-names-other-play-on-wii-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/nintendo-dates-pikmin-port-names-other-play-on-wii-titles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/nintendo-dates-pikmin-port-names-other-play-on-wii-titles/#commentsFiled under: ,

IGN has confirmed that the "Play on Wii" Pikmin port is more than just a repackaging -- it and the other Play on Wii GameCube games will have updated Wiimote controls. Pikmin is actually the second of these to be released, and it'll hit Japan on December 25 of this year for 3,800 yen ($36). It'll be preceded on December 11 by the game we officially nominate Least Likely to Benefit from New Controls: Donkey Kong Jungle Beat. If these games are released here, we would expect them to be slightly cheaper than the Japanese price (like all games).

Titles announced for 2009 include Mario Tennis, Metroid Prime 1 and 2, Pikmin 2, and -- best of all -- Chibi-Robo! It'll be interesting to see if Skip makes it a point-and-click like it was originally.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqNintendo dates Pikmin port, names other Play on Wii titles originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chibi-roboDonkey-KongDonkey-Kong-Jungle-Beatgamecubemario-tennismetroid-primemetroid-prime-2New-Play-Control-Donkey-Kong-Jungle-BeatNintendoNintendo-EAD-TokyopikminPlatformerplay-on-wiiThu, 02 Oct 2008 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Pikmin remake launches Dec. 25 in Japan, Nintendo unveils more 'Play for Wii' titles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/pikmin-remake-launches-dec-25-in-japan-nintendo-unveils-more-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/pikmin-remake-launches-dec-25-in-japan-nintendo-unveils-more-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/pikmin-remake-launches-dec-25-in-japan-nintendo-unveils-more-p/#commentsFiled under: ,

This Christmas, Japanese gamers will be able to waggle flowery lemmings to their hearts content. Nintendo has announced (via IGN) that the Pikmin remake for Wii will launch December 25 in Japan for 3,800 yen (approx. US $36). The game is part of Nintendo's new "Play for Wii" series, which will be a collection of GameCube titles revised with Wii controls.

Before Pikmin (and not counting previous Wii remake Resident Evil 4), Nintendo will re-release Donkey Kong Jungle Beat on December 11. Upcoming titles in the collection include Chibi Robo, Pikmin 2, Mario Tennis GC, Metroid Prime, and Metroid Prime 2 Dark Echoes. No word on any release dates outside of Japan, but we'll be live at Nintendo of America's press conference in San Francisco later today.

JoystiqPikmin remake launches Dec. 25 in Japan, Nintendo unveils more 'Play for Wii' titles originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 09:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GameCubeNintendoNintendo-EADpikminplay-for-wiiRTSWiiThu, 02 Oct 2008 09:35:00 EST