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 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![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[Wii Mario Kart bundle drops to $134 on Walmart.com]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/07/wii-mario-kart-bundle-drops-to-134-00-on-walmart-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/07/wii-mario-kart-bundle-drops-to-134-00-on-walmart-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/07/wii-mario-kart-bundle-drops-to-134-00-on-walmart-com/#comments If you've just gotta get those blue sparks, but also have to maintain your personal fiscal responsibility during these tough and uncertain economic times, Walmart.com has made your internal struggle between green-backs and green shells a little easier to reconcile by dropping both black and white Wii Mario Kart bundles to $134.00.

Other online storefronts such as Best Buy and Target still have the bundle listed for $149.99, so this appears to be a Walmart-thing, rather than a Nintendo-thing. It will be interesting to see if other retailers follow suit, or if Nintendo will drop the price themselves ahead of the Wii U's launch, which would render Walmart's 15 dollar discount irrelevant. Either way, Walmart certainly seems determined to move some Nintendo merchandise out the door.

[Thanks, Phil!]

JoystiqWii Mario Kart bundle drops to $134 on Walmart.com originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buyblue-sparksbundlemario-kartMario-Kart-Wiinintendoprice-droptargetwalmartwiiwii-bundlewii-uSun, 07 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo has one million seller per console in last quarter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/nintendo-has-one-million-seller-per-console-in-last-quarter/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/nintendo-has-one-million-seller-per-console-in-last-quarter/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/nintendo-has-one-million-seller-per-console-in-last-quarter/#comments The NPD suggested that audiences were receptive of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D (by which we mean they bought it), but new data from Nintendo reveals just how successful the game was in its debut month.

In its list of million-selling first-party titles for the last quarter (ending June 30), Ocarina of Time is the only 3DS game listed, having sold 1.08 million copies -- approximately 270,000 in Japan, 810,000 elsewhere.

Nintendo's other platforms also feature one lonely million seller each ... well, technically there are two on the DS, combined: Pokemon Black and White sold 1.36 mllion in the quarter, bringing it up to a global life-to-date total of 12.87 million. And Mario Kart Wii repped for the Wii all by itself, selling 1.22 million in the quarter, up to a ridiculous 2.82 million lifetime total.

JoystiqNintendo has one million seller per console in last quarter originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsmario-kart-wiinintendopokemon-black-and-whitesalesthe-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-timethe-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-time-3dwiiFri, 29 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Nintendo Selects' a slightly different set of games for Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/nintendo-selects-a-slightly-different-set-of-games-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/nintendo-selects-a-slightly-different-set-of-games-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/05/nintendo-selects-a-slightly-different-set-of-games-for-europe/#comments Nintendo's new Mario Kart Wii pack is coming to Europe on May 20, at a "reduced trade price" around £129/€150.

The budget "Nintendo Selects" line will launch in Europe the same day, featuring a slightly different lineup from the American version: Wii Sports, Animal Crossing: City Folk (under the overlong European title Animal Crossing: Let's Go to the City), Mario Strikers Charged, and WarioWare Smooth Moves. Mario Super Sluggers isn't part of the series because it was never released in Europe!

Joystiq'Nintendo Selects' a slightly different set of games for Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 May 2011 09:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossing-city-folkeuropemario-kart-wiimario-strikers-chargednintendonintendo-selectsprice-cutWarioWare-Smooth-Moveswiiwii-sportsThu, 05 May 2011 09:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii drops to $150 on May 15, bundled with Mario Kart and wheel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/wii-drops-to-150-on-may-15-bundled-with-mario-kart-and-wheel/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/wii-drops-to-150-on-may-15-bundled-with-mario-kart-and-wheel/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/wii-drops-to-150-on-may-15-bundled-with-mario-kart-and-wheel/#comments Nintendo has officially announced an impending price drop for the Wii. As of May 15 (confirming our earlier report), the Wii will be sold at a suggested retail price of $149.99, and will come bundled with Mario Kart Wii and the Wii Wheel accessory. The new price applies to both black and white system models.

Now that Mario and his comical transportation have been crammed into the box, Wii Sports and Wii Sports Resort are out. On May 15, the original sports collection will join the "Nintendo Selects" line of budget-priced software, alongside The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Animal Crossing: City Folk and Mario Super Sluggers. Expect to pay $19.99 for each of those (and accept the obligatory punishment of polluted box art).

Gallery: Wii Mario Kart hardware bundles

Continue reading Wii drops to $150 on May 15, bundled with Mario Kart and wheel

JoystiqWii drops to $150 on May 15, bundled with Mario Kart and wheel originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 May 2011 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mario-Kart-Wiimario-super-sluggersnintendonintendo-selectsprice-dropthe-legend-of-zelda-twilight-princesswiiwii-sportsWed, 04 May 2011 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[NPD: Guitar Hero 3 is this generation's highest-grossing game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/npd-guitar-hero-3-is-this-generations-highest-grossing-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/npd-guitar-hero-3-is-this-generations-highest-grossing-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/25/npd-guitar-hero-3-is-this-generations-highest-grossing-game/#comments Call of Duty: Black Ops might be the best-selling game by unit sales, but it isn't the US bestseller in terms of gross revenue. According to NPD data going back to 1995, and compiled by CNBC, the honor of the highest-grossing game of "this generation" goes to another Activision game, the Axl Rose-angering Guitar Hero 3: Legends of Rock. Black Ops is #2.

The list of the NPD's top ten best-selling games by revenue (after the break) includes a second Guitar Hero game, too -- R.I.P. -- along with Rock Band and both Wii Fits, which suggests that the best way to make a lot of revenue is simply to make your game cost more. Although Wii Play and Mario Kart Wii are also on the list, so maybe people just really like finding peripherals inside their game boxes, like cereal box prizes.

Continue reading NPD: Guitar Hero 3 is this generation's highest-grossing game

JoystiqNPD: Guitar Hero 3 is this generation's highest-grossing game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-4GH3GH3-Legends-Of-RockGuitar-Hero-3Guitar-Hero-3-Legends-Of-Rockguitar-hero-world-tourLegends-Of-Rockmario-kart-wiimicrosoftmodern-warfare-2nintendonpdpcplaystationps3rock-bandsaleswiiwii-fitwii-playxboxFri, 25 Mar 2011 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart symbols appear on bike lanes in Portland, Ore.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/mario-kart-symbols-appear-on-bike-lanes-in-portland-ore/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/mario-kart-symbols-appear-on-bike-lanes-in-portland-ore/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/mario-kart-symbols-appear-on-bike-lanes-in-portland-ore/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Some wily vandal in Portland, Oregon has painted Mario Kart symbols into the pavement there on one of the city's bike lanes. You can see them in action in this video (also embedded after the break). Unfortunately, the bananas, star and speed arrows don't actually confer the same powers they do in the game, but we did smirk to see that all of the bikers do faithfully avoid the banana peel, and hit the rest of the symbols head on.

You can even wring some unintentional hilarity from the dry-as-a-Dry Bones explanation of what each powerup does by the KATU anchor. That's right, Carl Click! You might have read that script just fine, but admit it: You don't know a Red Shell from a Blooper.

Continue reading Mario Kart symbols appear on bike lanes in Portland, Ore.

JoystiqMario Kart symbols appear on bike lanes in Portland, Ore. originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banana-peelblooperdry-bonesdsfunnyhumormario-kartMario-Kart-Wiinintendooregonportlandred-shellsymbolswiiTue, 24 Aug 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii summer competition launches in July]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/wii-summer-competition-launches-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/wii-summer-competition-launches-in-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/29/wii-summer-competition-launches-in-july/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Are you ready to totally destroy some people on vacation who felt like trying out a Wii game? Get to your local mall or Six Flags next month! This summer, Nintendo is holding a Wii Games: Summer 2010 competition, with initial matches held throughout the country, culminating in a final showdown in Los Angeles.

The five events to get way too serious about include Wii Sports Resort's Basketball and Bowling, Wii Fit Plus's Hula Hoop Challenge, New Super Mario Bros. Wii's Coin Battle, and Mario Kart Wii's Time Trial. The schedule and locations can be found at the competition's official site. Not anywhere near one of those locations? A "home version" will soon be available on the site, so you can try out your inappropriately intense game and trash talk on your own family.

Continue reading Wii summer competition launches in July

JoystiqWii summer competition launches in July originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jun 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>competitionMario-Kart-WiiNew-Super-Mario-Bros-WiinintendowiiWii-Fit-PlusWii-Games-Summer-2010Wii-Sports-2Wii-Sports-ResortTue, 29 Jun 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dreams of inflatable Wii kart racing validated by video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/dreams-of-inflatable-wii-kart-racing-validated-by-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/dreams-of-inflatable-wii-kart-racing-validated-by-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/dreams-of-inflatable-wii-kart-racing-validated-by-video/#commentsWhen we saw CTA Digital's Inflatable Racing Kart for Wii, we had only one question about the device -- and it's one that, we suspect, many of you also had in mind, if secretly: Is it possible for an adult to sit in it? The promotional video after the break answers that tacit question in the affirmative.

Continue reading Dreams of inflatable Wii kart racing validated by video

JoystiqDreams of inflatable Wii kart racing validated by video originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CTA-DigitalInflatable-Race-KartMario-Kart-WiinintendowiiFri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Play Mario Kart Wii in your very own inflatable kart]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/29/play-mario-kart-wii-in-your-very-own-inflatable-kart/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/29/play-mario-kart-wii-in-your-very-own-inflatable-kart/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/29/play-mario-kart-wii-in-your-very-own-inflatable-kart/#commentsCTA Digital has unveiled one of its largest Wii accessories yet: a $40 inflatable kart with an attached steering wheel controller, into which you can insert the Wiimote to play Mario Kart Wii and other racing games.

Our first impulse is to make fun of this unnecessary accessory (an "unnecessory," if you will), but two things give us pause:
  1. CTA is using the item's marketing to publicize Kids are Heroes, an organization that encourages community involvement among kids -- even going so far as to use Ricky Springer, who races real karts to raise money and awareness for Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorder, as a spokesman.
  2. Unlike other plastic Wii accessories, there is no doubt in our minds that if our six-year-old selves had seen an inflatable car you could use as a game controller, we would have freaked out.

JoystiqPlay Mario Kart Wii in your very own inflatable kart originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 May 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriescta-digitalinflatable-race-kartkartmario-kart-wiiNintendoracingWiiSat, 29 May 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Sports approaches 50 million copies sold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/wii-sports-approaches-50-million-copies-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/wii-sports-approaches-50-million-copies-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/31/wii-sports-approaches-50-million-copies-sold/#commentsIn a supplement to Nintendo's earnings statement yesterday, the company released some sales numbers for top-selling games in the last quarter. Four Nintendo products sold over one million copies between April and July, only one of which was a new release anywhere in the world during that time.

Pokemon Platinum on DS, which came out in North America in March, right before the quarter started, moved 1.91 million copies in Q1, for a life-to-date total of 5.66 million worldwide.

It was an even better quarter for the Wii's evergreens. Wii Fit sold an additional 3.6 million copies, bringing its LTD to 21.82. Mario Kart Wii sold 2 million, making its total 17.39 million. And Wii Sports sold an additional 1.91 million copies, bringing its total sales number to a ridiculous 47.62 million, including copies sold in hardware bundles.

And that's why there's a sequel.

Source (PDF)

JoystiqWii Sports approaches 50 million copies sold originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSearnings-reportmario-kart-wiiNintendopokemon-platinumsalesWiiwii-fitwii-sportsFri, 31 Jul 2009 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's Q1 fiscal results show sales slump]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/nintendos-q1-fiscal-results-show-sales-slump/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/nintendos-q1-fiscal-results-show-sales-slump/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/nintendos-q1-fiscal-results-show-sales-slump/#comments
Nintendo released its latest financial earnings report for the period ending June 30 (Q2 to us, but fiscal Q1 to those business types at the house Mario built) ... and it could've been better. Don't be fooled: Nintendo still managed to make profits across the board, but compared to the same period last year, profits weren't nearly as dramatic.

First, let's talk DS. Nintendo revealed lifetime sales of the DS has reached a whopping 107.75 million units and that the new DSi has managed to reach a respectable 6.68 million. Hardware sales for this quarter were lower than last year, however, as Nintendo revealed it only sold 5.97 million handhelds compared to the 6.94 million sold in 2008's fiscal first quarter. Even software was down quite a bit, with a mere 29.09 million units of DS software flying off store shelves this quarter compared to the more impressive 36.69 million of last year.

On the Wii side, Nintendo revealed lifetime sales have reached 52.62 million units, but that 2009 console sales were down as well. Nintendo reported that during this year's fiscal first quarter, the company could only unload 2.23 million Wiis compared to the 5.17 million it sold during this same time period last year. Software on the platform also took a hit, as Nintendo recorded only 31.07 million units managed to find consumer's homes compared to the 40.41 million of last year. It's important to note that last year's sales were significantly boosted by the releases of Mario Kart Wii and Wii Fit.

So, as one can guess, Nintendo saw its massive profits shaved down quite a bit this past quarter. With all of the dips in hardware and software sales, Nintendo saw its net sales drop a staggering 40 percent to ¥253.4 billion ($2.65 billion) compared to last year's ¥423.38 billion ($4.43 billion). Nintendo also saw a drop in its operating income, which fell from last year's ¥119.19 billion to ¥40.4 billion ($1.25 billion to $422.5 million), a decline of 60.61 percent. So ... who do you call when your money-printing machine is on the fritz?

JoystiqNintendo's Q1 fiscal results show sales slump originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessDShardwarejapanmario-kart-wiinintendonintendo-dsisalessoftwareWiiwii-fitThu, 30 Jul 2009 11:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario, meet Sonic (at the Winter Olympics)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/mario-meet-sonic-at-the-winter-olympics/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/mario-meet-sonic-at-the-winter-olympics/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/mario-meet-sonic-at-the-winter-olympics/#comments
Listen -- not every game at E3 is a winner. The Joystiq heavyweights get to go play all the big games and interview all of the developer hotshots, and that's the stuff you love reading about. But some of us are down in the trenches, doing all of the demos that no one else wants to do, checking out all the games whose names are read around the schedule planning table, and answered only with the silence of bloggers who have better games to play.

That's not to say that Mario and Sonic at the Winter Olympics is a bad game -- its audience will probably enjoy it. Just like the previous Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games, it offers multiple Olympic sports-based minigames featuring popular Nintendo and Sega characters, controlled by various Wii and DS motions. People who like buying that kind of thing (parents wandering a videogame store looking for wholesome family entertainment) will probably enjoy it. But even though most of the Joystiq staff passed on this demo (and your faithful blogger bravely attended it), it was one of the more surreal things we've seen this week. Our strange experiences, let us show you them.

Continue reading Mario, meet Sonic (at the Winter Olympics)

JoystiqMario, meet Sonic (at the Winter Olympics) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amy-roseDSmariomario-and-sonic-at-the-winter-olympicsmario-circuitmario-kart-wiinintendoprincess-peachsegasonicWiiThu, 04 Jun 2009 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[High schoolers learn life-saving lesson from Mario Kart Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/high-schoolers-learn-life-saving-lesson-from-mario-kart-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/high-schoolers-learn-life-saving-lesson-from-mario-kart-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/high-schoolers-learn-life-saving-lesson-from-mario-kart-wii/#commentsHow do you keep kids from getting distracted? One school thinks Mario Kart is the answer. In order to teach kids about the dangers of texting while driving, Colorado's Vail Christian High School has introduced the "distracted and drowsy driving program," in which kids play Mario Kart Wii while answering and sending text messages, in order to see how phone use adversely affects driving skill. As a bonus, the program teaches awareness of hazards like banana peels and turtle shells.

The program, which also includes deterrents like a chair that simulates a 5MPH collision and a golf cart that simulates drunk driving, is part of Vail Christian's entry in a National Organization for Youth Safety contest. The school stands to win a $10,000 award if its program wins. Students who successfully demonstrate understanding of how dangerous texting while driving is will also earn college credit in Obvious Studies.

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqHigh schoolers learn life-saving lesson from Mario Kart Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 May 2009 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-kart-wiiNintendosafetyschoolWiiTue, 19 May 2009 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: Poor Wii Music, Animal Crossing sales stamina to blame for downturn]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/analyst-poor-wii-music-animal-crossing-sales-stamina-to-blame-for-downt/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/analyst-poor-wii-music-animal-crossing-sales-stamina-to-blame-for-downt/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/analyst-poor-wii-music-animal-crossing-sales-stamina-to-blame-for-downt/#comments Wii sales have been the lowest they've ever been in Japan. Is the Japanese public losing interest? Screen Digest analyst Ed Barton told GameBizBlog that the Wii sales downturn is mostly due to the lack of staying power exhibited by Animal Crossing: City Folk and Wii Music.

Barton says that the continued success of Wii Fit and Mario Kart Wii only back up his claim. "These are older games that obviously have shown tremendous stamina, but Nintendo always needs to bring out new ways to drive console sales forward, and we just didn't see that with Wii Music and City Folk." Even though both titles sold decently enough (Animal Crossing was one of the region's top 10 selling games in 2008 and Wii Music debuted with 92,000 units sold in its first week), they lacked the necessary sales stamina of Wii Fit and Mario Kart Wii.

He says that there isn't much hope on the horizon either, despite the imminent release of Monster Hunter 3 on Wii. He warns that trying to transfer the user base from handheld to home console is risky and that the gamble may not pay off for Nintendo. Barton is of the mind that "it won't have the same level of success that it had on the PSP."

JoystiqAnalyst: Poor Wii Music, Animal Crossing sales stamina to blame for downturn originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkAnimal-Crossing-MMOAnimal-Crossing-Wiijapanmario-kart-wiimonster-huntermonster-hunter-gNintendoNintendo-EADWiiwii-musicThu, 16 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UK charts: Wii Fit, Call of Duty still on top, Professor Layton climbing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/uk-charts-wii-fit-call-of-duty-still-on-top-professor-layton/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/uk-charts-wii-fit-call-of-duty-still-on-top-professor-layton/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/03/uk-charts-wii-fit-call-of-duty-still-on-top-professor-layton/#comments The week ending January 31st saw no movement at all in the top two spots on the UK sales charts. Wii Fit maintains its top spot on the UK sales charts for a third week, followed by previous champ Call of Duty: World at War. Skate 2, which debuted last week at #3, has dropped to #5 behind FIFA '09 and Professor Layton and the Curious Village, which, like Wii Fit, is experiencing increased sales due to long-awaited replenishment of stock.

Mario Kart Wii rose two positions to #6, leading us to wonder if, over the course of 2009, the top half of the charts will steadily fill with Nintendo hits from 2008.

[Via Edge]

JoystiqUK charts: Wii Fit, Call of Duty still on top, Professor Layton climbing originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Feb 2009 11:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-world-at-warDSmario-kart-wiiNintendoprofessor-laytonskate-2Wiiwii-fitTue, 03 Feb 2009 11:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart Source: made by fans, for fans]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/mario-kart-source-made-by-fans-for-fans/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/mario-kart-source-made-by-fans-for-fans/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/mario-kart-source-made-by-fans-for-fans/#commentsFiled under:


If you're a fan of PC games, then of course you've heard of the Source engine. It powers Half-Life 2, which is the bee's knees. Well, an ambitious bunch has decided to use the Source engine to code a new Mario Kart racing game, Mario Kart Source. The best part about this project is that the team is looking at all of the previous games in the series and is attempting to take just the best bits for their new game. Our verdict? Awesome.

Sadly, Nintendo won't likely be as excited to hear about the project, so we're sure they'll step in at some point or another and intervene.

[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqMario Kart Source: made by fans, for fans originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 19:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fpshalf-lifehalf-life-2half-life-sourcemariomario-kartmario-kart-wiinintendopcracingvalvevalve-softwareThu, 22 Jan 2009 19:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo dominates 2008 UK game sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/nintendo-dominates-2008-uk-game-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/nintendo-dominates-2008-uk-game-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/nintendo-dominates-2008-uk-game-sales/#commentsFiled under:


Mario Kart Wii was a popular title for the Brits and their neighbors, as sales data shows it to be the best-selling game in the UK under the category of "individual SKU" during 2008, topping a list that is comprised mainly of games available only on Nintendo gaming systems. Considering how many amazing games released over the course of this year, we believe this to be quite the achievement

The Wii is just so darn popular over there. So popular, in fact, that the top 5 best-selling games for the year were all on Nintendo platforms. Coming in at the second spot was Wii Fit, followed by Wii Play, Brain Training on DS, and our favorite game to poke fun at, Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games. Full list is past the break.

Continue reading Nintendo dominates 2008 UK game sales

JoystiqNintendo dominates 2008 UK game sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessmariomario-kartmario-kart-wiisalessalesfiguresukMon, 12 Jan 2009 14:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo dominates Amazon in 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/29/nintendo-dominates-amazon-in-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/29/nintendo-dominates-amazon-in-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/29/nintendo-dominates-amazon-in-2008/#commentsFiled under:

The Nintendo Wii has been a hit since it released over two years ago. For popular retail site Amazon.com, Nintendo's latest console has been a big cash generator for Amazon during its time on the market, especially in 2008, as the site has released its 2008 best-of lists and guess what was the top-selling video game in 2008? You guess it: Wii.

Aside from being the top video game, Wii Fit enjoyed the best reviews through 2008, as well as being the product most wished for by users. Last, but certainly not least, was Mario Kart Wii (with Wii Wheel), which was the item gifted the most by Amazon users throughout this year. In the end, Nintendo ended up being

JoystiqNintendo dominates Amazon in 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Dec 2008 18:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbest-of-2008businessmariomario-kartmario-kart-wiisalessalesfigureswii-fitMon, 29 Dec 2008 18:35:00 EST<![CDATA[CoD: World at War tops UK charts for fifth week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/cod-world-at-war-tops-uk-charts-for-fifth-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/cod-world-at-war-tops-uk-charts-for-fifth-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/cod-world-at-war-tops-uk-charts-for-fifth-week/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Call of Duty: World at War (CoD:W@W for the more efficient among you) has defended its number one position on the all-format UK game sales charts, extending its reign to a fifth consecutive week despite heavy holiday competition. Mario Kart Wii took the second spot, followed by FIFA '09 and, still quite bizarrely, Need for Speed: Undercover. Oh, but wait until we tell you what's in the fifth spot. Dr. Kawashima's Brain Training. Remember that one?

Further down the charts, Ubisoft's cel-shaded scurrier, Prince of Persia, climbed to the 20th position while Sonic Unleashed went from 33rd to 12th. We'll let that sink in for a few moments.

JoystiqCoD: World at War tops UK charts for fifth week originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionCall-of-Duty-World-at-WarFifa-09FPSMario-Kart-WiiPCPrince-of-PersiaPS3Sonic-UnleashedTreyarchUKUK-chartsXbox-360Tue, 16 Dec 2008 09:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Hit the slopes in new Mario Kart tournament]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/hit-the-slopes-in-new-mario-kart-tournament/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/hit-the-slopes-in-new-mario-kart-tournament/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/hit-the-slopes-in-new-mario-kart-tournament/#commentsFiled under: ,

With the onset of winter, the latest Mario Kart Wii tournament features a thematically appropriate choice of track: the snowy peaks of DK Summit. From today, you can hop online and complete a single lap of the twisty course in the quickest time possible. On your way, you'll also have to pass through a bunch of deviously placed gates, or your time won't register. The closing date for this is December 25, so you've got another ten days to work on beating the whole world at Mario Kart Wii.* You won't be short of challengers.

* Note: Beating the world is not as great as winning Wii Points, primarily because beating the world won't buy you River City Ransom. But it's still to be encouraged.


[Via Nintendo Everything]

A fan of Mario Kart Wii? Us too, especially the tournaments, of which there have been quite a few. To check out previous contests, click here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here. Fancy yourself a good karter? Then check out Game Night for some of the community's best competition!

JoystiqHit the slopes in new Mario Kart tournament originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 21:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dk-summitmariomario-kartmario-kart-wiitournamenttourneyMon, 15 Dec 2008 21:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Best Buy holding back Wiis]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/rumor-best-buy-holding-back-wiis/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/rumor-best-buy-holding-back-wiis/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/rumor-best-buy-holding-back-wiis/#commentsFiled under:

Still stuck for a Wii this holiday season? Worried that little Jonny and Jenny will regard you as the WORST PARENT OF ALL TIME come Xmas morning?

Then know that there is still hope. A Go Nintendo tipster claims that his local Best Buy is clinging onto its Wiis until December 14. Come Sunday, the store will allegedly offer them out to customers with games bundled on top -- including Mario Kart Wii, which you should buy anyway, because it's a riot.

Sure, it's only a rumor, but a perfectly plausible one: Best Buy did something similarly sneaky last year. If you're still in the hunt for a Wii, we'd recommend a Best Buy visit this weekend.

JoystiqRumor: Best Buy holding back Wiis originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buychristmasholidaysmario-kart-wiiretailshortagesstockWed, 10 Dec 2008 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Man plays Mario Kart with real motorists in France]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/05/man-plays-mario-kart-with-real-motorists-in-france/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/05/man-plays-mario-kart-with-real-motorists-in-france/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/05/man-plays-mario-kart-with-real-motorists-in-france/#commentsFiled under: ,


While we'd never suggest doing Mario Kart in real life like this yourself, we have to admit that it's pretty darn hilarious. Even though a minivan or truck could squash young prankster Rémi Gaillard with ease, we commend him for coming up with such a great idea. Oh, and for having the kind of friends that aren't too concerned with his safety so that such a thing could be filmed and put on the internet for all to see.


[Via Game | Life]

JoystiqMan plays Mario Kart with real motorists in France originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Dec 2008 14:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>francefrenchmario-kartmario-kart-wiiFri, 05 Dec 2008 14:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 5: Infections]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/01/top-5-infections/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/01/top-5-infections/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/01/top-5-infections/#commentsFiled under:


After visiting friends and relatives this Thanksgiving, I was left with something special inside. Was it fond memories? Was it a deeper connection with those who I love? Was it several containers of leftovers? Sure, I received a fair share of those, but the most significant thing I received this Thanksgiving was the flu.

I should have known. At least five different folks I saw over the course of the day claimed to be recovering from some form of the dreaded virus. Sure enough, by Friday evening I was sweating and freezing at once, aching all over, and debating on which end to point at the toilet (too much?).

Whenever I get sick, I tend to feel very isolated. While everyone else was out enjoying their four-day weekend, I was tethered to the bed. But it didn't take long for me to realize that I'm certainly not alone. Everyone gets sick sooner or later, and no one is truly immune. In fact, even our video game counterparts have their fair share of sicknesses that affect their goals. And thankfully, just like said counterparts, the infections are usually brief. Here's our Top 5 sicknesses to avoid.



The Top 5 is a weekly feature that provides us with a forum to share our opinions on various aspects of the video game culture, and provides you with a forum to tell us how wrong we are. To further voice your opinions, submit a vote in the Wii Fanboy Poll, and take part in the daily discussions of Wii Warm Up.

JoystiqTop 5: Infections originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Dec 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bombermancastlevaniaeggplanteggplant-wizardinfectioninfectionsjoystiqfeatureskid-icarusmariomario-kartmario-kart-wiipoisonsicksickdayssicknessyoshiyoshis-islandMon, 01 Dec 2008 11:00:00 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[Mario Kart, Wii Fit hit sales landmark in UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/mario-kart-wii-fit-hit-sales-landmark-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/mario-kart-wii-fit-hit-sales-landmark-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/mario-kart-wii-fit-hit-sales-landmark-in-uk/#commentsFiled under: ,

Not many games become diamond-sellers -- that is, pass one million sales -- in the United Kingdom. According to ELSPA, only nine titles have managed the feat since it started recording sales in 1999. As of today, a further two have joined that elite group, and both are close to our hearts: Mario Kart Wii and Wii Fit.

They've taken their sweet time getting there, however. Fellow diamond-seller Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas took just three weeks to break the seven-figure landmark in Britain, while Mario Kart Wii and Wii Fit took 32 and 30 weeks, respectively. On the other hand, there's no doubt that both epitomize the "evergreen" appeal of popular Wii titles -- whereas games like San Andreas had a very explosive start and then faded, the Nintendo pair are still in the top five in the latest UK charts.

Hit the break for the full list of titles that broke the magic one meeeellion mark.

Gallery: Our favorite Mario Kart tracks

The basicsStriking goldThis volcano is mad at me... can I turn around?A total squareDon't fall off that cliff

Continue reading Mario Kart, Wii Fit hit sales landmark in UK

JoystiqMario Kart, Wii Fit hit sales landmark in UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Nov 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britainelspaexergamingmario-kart-wiiracingsportsukwii-fitThu, 27 Nov 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[More Club Nintendo goodies announced for Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/more-club-nintendo-goodies-announced-for-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/more-club-nintendo-goodies-announced-for-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/more-club-nintendo-goodies-announced-for-japan/#commentsFiled under: , ,

While it prepares to wheel out Club Nintendo in North America later this year, Nintendo has decided to torture us one last time with stuff we can't have.

Every year in Japan, Platinum and Gold members in the Japanese program get a free gift. This year, Platinum members have three to choose from, including the snazzy golden Wii Wheel you see above. This takes us back to GoldenEye's multiplayer, and us petulantly refusing to play unless we could steer Oddjob with the only gold-colored N64 controller in the house. Also up for grabs is a Super Mario Cap, which Nintendo reports is too big for girls and schoolkids (but not adult male bloggers), and a Club Nintendo Calendar 2009, which will be the only option for Gold members. That's better than our only option, which is to own nothing.

All very lovely then, and all very out of our reach ... but for how long? Go past the break for a look at the cap and calendar.

Continue reading More Club Nintendo goodies announced for Japan

JoystiqMore Club Nintendo goodies announced for Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossingcalendarclub-nintendohatmariomario-kart-wiiwii-wheelTue, 18 Nov 2008 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[2008's best-sellers revealed, familiar outcome ensues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/2008s-best-sellers-revealed-familiar-outcome-ensues/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/2008s-best-sellers-revealed-familiar-outcome-ensues/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/2008s-best-sellers-revealed-familiar-outcome-ensues/#commentsFiled under: ,

Gamasutra has compiled a bunch of charts showing the best-selling games of 2008 (so far) across all formats. At first glance, the results are thoroughly predictable -- it's yet more Wii dominance in the U.S. -- but there are interesting factoids to be drawn from this.

Wii Play, for example, looks like finishing in the top five games of the year for the second year running. Even more impressively, Gamasutra thinks it could sell more copies in 2008 than in 2007, which is all kinds of crazy. Surely that would be some kind of first?

The top two spots are held by Super Smash Bros. Brawl and Mario Kart Wii, a pair of titles that we always expected to sell well, but to beat the likes of Wii Fit or other games aimed at Nintendo's broadened audience? Speaking of Wii Fit, it tops the chart for estimated revenue so far this year, thanks to its higher retail price. We'll reproduce the 2008 YTD sales table below, but Gamasutra has other data worth looking at here.

1. Super Smash Bros. Brawl (Wii) -- 3.5 million
2. Mario Kart Wii (Wii) -- 3.4 million
3. Grand Theft Auto IV (360) -- 3.2 million
4. Wii Play (Wii) -- 3.0 million
5. Wii Fit (Wii) -- 2.8 million

Joystiq2008's best-sellers revealed, familiar outcome ensues originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008businessgrand-theft-auto-ivmario-kart-wiinpdsmash-bros-brawlwii-fitwii-playMon, 17 Nov 2008 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Nice idea, terrible value: the Multiplayer Controller Set]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/nice-idea-terrible-value-the-multiplayer-controller-set/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/nice-idea-terrible-value-the-multiplayer-controller-set/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/nice-idea-terrible-value-the-multiplayer-controller-set/#commentsFiled under: ,


A Go Nintendo reader spotted this on the shelves of his local Target: a "Multi-Player Controller Set" containing a Wii Remote, a Nunchuk, and a Wii Wheel. This kind of thing obviously makes sense to Nintendo as Christmas approaches (the season where Wii excels, some would say), and we could really get behind the idea of a good value bundle of second/third/fourth peripherals (still need a fourth Wiimote and Nunchuk at Casa de Greenhough!).

It's just a shame that the price is such a sham: $74.99?! All three of these peripherals are available separately at Amazon for a total of $63.91 (which qualifies for free shipping), but here's the real laugh: you can buy an individual Wiimote, Nunchuk, and Wii Wheel for $74.97 at Target itself. D'oh! Knock at least fifteen bones off this and you've got our attention.


[Thanks, Sonic_13!]

JoystiqNice idea, terrible value: the Multiplayer Controller Set originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-kart-wiimultiplayernunchuktargetwii-remotewii-wheelwiimoteWed, 12 Nov 2008 17:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 5: Multiplayer Experiences]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/top-5-multiplayer-experiences/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/top-5-multiplayer-experiences/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/03/top-5-multiplayer-experiences/#commentsFiled under:


As someone who writes on the Internets, I do a lot of reading as well. As just about any successful author will advise, if I want to be a better writer then I should be reading as much as possible. Thus, I tend to spend a good amount of time scouring the gaming websites and reading commentary from just about anyone. I wouldn't insult anyone by pointing out flaws in their work (as I'm host to many of my own), but it is sufficient to say that there is great diversity in the quality and other general attributes of gaming commentary. One source that I do consistently enjoy comes from GoNintendo's head honcho, known as RawmeatCowboy. Equal parts Nintendo fan and beard enthusiast, RMC has a passion for gaming unmatched by nearly anyone else in the entire industry. Whereas some journalists and commentators may give off an impression of jaded cynicism, this particular blogger is a bundle of video game-loving joy. Though he's not quite the wordsmith of a Jerry Holkins, his joy and optimism transcend any potential criticism. And after all, that should be the reason we play video games: for happiness.

Stepping away from worshipping his shrine, I'll get back on target. In a recent post, RMC discusses offline multiplayer via a get-together involving several friends of his trying out Guitar Hero: World Tour. He states that multiplayer is more enjoyable in person than online, and I find it difficult to disagree. That is not to say that online multiplayer is garbage; quite the opposite is true. Aside from the obvious pragmatics of not always being able to round up a few friends to play a game you enjoy, there's the global aspect behind online gaming. Though I've been battling people online via chess years before any major console had such capabilities, the enormous power of the technology didn't register with me until very recently. As I was connecting to an online race in Mario Kart Wii, the identification of racers on the globe really hit home. Realizing that I was simultaneously connecting with individuals from Japan, China, Germany, and England was strangely beautiful.

Despite the fascinating global implications of such connections, I remain a bit of a luddite in that I don't think there's anything better than having your friends in the same room with you while fighting with or against each other. Here's the Top 5 ways we recommend that you enjoy such opportunities.


The Top 5 is a weekly feature that provides us with a forum to share our opinions on various aspects of the video game culture, and provides you with a forum to tell us how wrong we are. To further voice your opinions, submit a vote in the Wii Fanboy Poll, and take part in the daily discussions of Wii Warm Up.

JoystiqTop 5: Multiplayer Experiences originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Nov 2008 13:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bombermangoldeneyegoldeneye-007guitar-heroguitar-hero-world-tourguitarherojoystiqfeaturesmario-kartmario-kart-64mario-kart-wiimultiplayerrock-bandrock-band-2smash-brossmash-bros-brawlsmash-bros-meleesmashbrossmashbrosbrawlsuper-smash-brossuper-smash-bros-64super-smash-bros-brawlMon, 03 Nov 2008 13:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest Mario Kart tournament drops coins all over Maple Treeway]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/latest-mario-kart-tournament-drops-coins-all-over-maple-treeway/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/latest-mario-kart-tournament-drops-coins-all-over-maple-treeway/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/27/latest-mario-kart-tournament-drops-coins-all-over-maple-treeway/#commentsFiled under:

It's that time again, where Nintendo pulls the lever and activates another tournament for Mario Kart Wii. This latest tourney takes place on Maple Treeway, tasking participants with collecting coins scattered throughout the track. Before you can nab the coins, however, they must be liberated from the various piles of leaves that call Maple Treeway their home. It's all about speed here, as you'll need to quickly grab as many coins as you can.

The tournament is open from November 1st to the 10th.


[Via WiiFolder]

JoystiqLatest Mario Kart tournament drops coins all over Maple Treeway originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Oct 2008 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>maple-treewaymariomario-kartmario-kart-wiitournamenttourneyMon, 27 Oct 2008 19:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo UK wheels out the celebs ...]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/nintendo-uk-wheels-out-the-celebs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/nintendo-uk-wheels-out-the-celebs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/nintendo-uk-wheels-out-the-celebs/#commentsFiled under:



... with mixed results. But let's start with the good ones: Patrick Stewart will be back this Christmas to sell the DS and Brain Training to Brits (as he was last year), and he'll be doing it alongside Julie Walters. Hurray! The rest of Nintendo's celebrity line-up will be quite obscure to Americans, but when they produce lifestyle photography as brilliant as this, who the hell cares? They include:
  • Girls Aloud. British girl pop group, and actually a pretty big name in Blighty. Most famous member is one Cheryl Cole, who seems lovely and sincere on X Factor, though isn't quite as pleasant if you meet her in a nightclub toilet.
  • Fern Britton, once-cuddly, now gastric-band-wearing TV presenter, will be advertising Cooking Guide.
  • Ronan Keating, one-fifth of Irish boyband Boyzone. Incidentally, in the process of writing this post, we discovered Boyzone were reforming. Ugh. Anyway, Ronan will be promoting Big Brain Academy.
  • Jamie and Louise Redknapp, slightly thick but good-looking soccer pundit and his former pop star wife. Will join forces with their extended family to push Mario Kart Wii, Wii Sports, and Super Smash Bros.: Brawl. That's a lot of responsibility on the Redknapps' shoulders! We hope they're up to it.
And going by Nintendo's current record in the UK, they'll probably do really well. Best of luck to all of them.

JoystiqNintendo UK wheels out the celebs ... originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Oct 2008 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingbig-brain-academyboyzonebritaincelebrityfern-brittongirls-aloudjulie-waltersmario-kart-wiimarketingpatrick-stewartpicardsmash-bros-brawlukwii-sportsMon, 20 Oct 2008 17:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Circuit City does buy one, get one 50% off sale on Wii games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/circuit-city-does-buy-one-get-one-50-off-sale-on-wii-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/circuit-city-does-buy-one-get-one-50-off-sale-on-wii-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/circuit-city-does-buy-one-get-one-50-off-sale-on-wii-games/#commentsFiled under:


For those of you with some extra money burning a hole in your pocket, know that Circuit City has a sale running from now until this upcoming Saturday. When you purchase any Wii game at full price, you can get a second game for 50% off. The sale also works with Wii Play, if you're not among the folks who've already purchased the bundle.

Need some suggestions? Mario Kart Wii is a good choice (and you can play with us at Game Night!), as well as Wario Land: Shake It! (which we're pretty fond of). There's also ... actually, just head on over there. The list of games is fairly long.

[Via GamerDeals]

JoystiqCircuit City does buy one, get one 50% off sale on Wii games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>circuit-citymariomario-kartmario-kart-wiisalewariowario-landwario-land-shake-itwii-playMon, 13 Oct 2008 10:48:00 EST<![CDATA[New Mario Kart tournament keeps it simple]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/new-mario-kart-tournament-keeps-it-simple/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/new-mario-kart-tournament-keeps-it-simple/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/new-mario-kart-tournament-keeps-it-simple/#commentsFiled under:

The latest Mario Kart Wii tournament will go back to basics, totally stripping away items in a straightforward race to the finish on Luigi Circuit. Only karts are permitted, and you have to use the Wii Wheel.

This news takes us back to the announcement of the first Mario Kart competition, when yours truly got on his soapbox and wrote a grumpy post complaining about why the inclusion of opponents and items in these Mario Kart Wii tournaments "totally missed the point." At the time, most readers disagreed with our point of view, and so may not be happy with this far more simplistic approach. Personally, we prefer these trials; they just seem fairer. Now all we need to develop is the ability to play Mario Kart Wii well.

This new contest runs from October 15th to October 25th.


[Thanks, Josh!]

A fan of Mario Kart Wii? Us too, especially the tournaments, of which there have been quite a few. To check out previous contests, click here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here. Fancy yourself a good karter? Then check out Game Night for some of the community's best competition. You're probably better than Dave, if nothing else.

JoystiqNew Mario Kart tournament keeps it simple originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Oct 2008 20:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>competitionmariomario-kartmario-kart-tournamentmario-kart-wiiracingtournamentFri, 10 Oct 2008 20:05:00 EST<![CDATA[NPD dishes out the 5 top-selling Wii games of this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/npd-dishes-out-the-5-top-selling-wii-games-of-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/npd-dishes-out-the-5-top-selling-wii-games-of-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/23/npd-dishes-out-the-5-top-selling-wii-games-of-this-year/#commentsFiled under:


When we think of what games could possibly be the top 5 for the Wii, it doesn't seem like there's much room for mystery. Those that follow the monthly NPD numbers will likely be able to recite the top 5, in order, off the top of their heads. So, let's get to it!

The top 5 games of 2008 so far according to the NPD are:
  1. Super Smash Bros. Brawl
  2. Mario Kart Wii (with wheel)
  3. Wii Play
  4. Wii Fit (with Balance Board)
  5. Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock (with guitar)
We're amazed at how well GH3 still continues to do on the Wii. Obviously, Wii Play is no surprise, as it's a constant fixture in the top software titles month after month. And we have a feeling that Wii Fit would be higher on the list if only more people could actually find it.

JoystiqNPD dishes out the 5 top-selling Wii games of this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Sep 2008 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionactivision-blizzardbusinessgh3guitar-heroguitar-hero-3mario-kartmario-kart-wiinintendonpdsalessalesfiguressmash-bros-brawlwii-fitwii-playTue, 23 Sep 2008 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Next Mario Kart tournament revealed early?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/rumor-next-mario-kart-tournament-revealed-early/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/rumor-next-mario-kart-tournament-revealed-early/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/rumor-next-mario-kart-tournament-revealed-early/#commentsFiled under:

For some reason, Nintendo's European website has posted details of a Mario Kart Wii tournament that is completely different from the current contest. We surmise that this will be the next tournament, starting on September 26th. This muddled development has shaken our tightly monitored weekly schedule to its very core, but we'll soldier on regardless.

This (probable) future tournament takes place on the Thwomp Desert battle map, only the giant Thwomp has now been replaced by an equally giant Pokey, who insists on rudely launching attacks at your kart. Hit your spiky foe three times to wrap things up. From September 26th. Maybe. Until then, get collecting coins.


[Via Go Nintendo]

A fan of Mario Kart Wii? Us too, especially the tournaments, which there have been quite a few of. To check out the previous tournaments, click here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here. And if you fancy yourself a good karter, check out Game Night for some of the community's best competition.

JoystiqRumor: Next Mario Kart tournament revealed early? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Sep 2008 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>competitionmariomario-kartmario-kart-tournamentmario-kart-wiiracingtournamentMon, 15 Sep 2008 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest Mario Kart tourney is for the gold diggers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/latest-mario-kart-tourney-is-for-the-gold-diggers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/latest-mario-kart-tourney-is-for-the-gold-diggers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/11/latest-mario-kart-tourney-is-for-the-gold-diggers/#commentsFiled under:


Or, rather, those that dig collecting gold coins. Get it? Get the joke we made there? Hello? Bueller?

Anywho, this latest Mario Kart Wii tournament takes place from September 15th to September 25th. Racers will need to collect coins on the track SNES Mario Circuit 3. Also, this one is only open to those of you rocking karts. No bikes, sorry.


[Via WiiFolder]

A fan of Mario Kart Wii? Us too, especially the tournaments, which there have been quite a few of. To check out the previous tournaments, click here, here, here, here, here, here, and here. And if you fancy yourself a good karter, check out Game Night for some of the community's best competition.

JoystiqLatest Mario Kart tourney is for the gold diggers originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Sep 2008 19:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>competitionmariomario-kartmario-kart-tournamentmario-kart-wiitournamentThu, 11 Sep 2008 19:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart cheat allows unlimited blue shells]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/mario-kart-cheat-allows-unlimited-blue-shells/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/mario-kart-cheat-allows-unlimited-blue-shells/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/01/mario-kart-cheat-allows-unlimited-blue-shells/#commentsFiled under:


Apparently, we're late to the party on this one, as folks have been steaming mad over a hack that allows players to toss an infinite number of blue shells during online races. While the video above does not show you the code, it does show you the damage that can be done. We've got a solution, however. Play Mario Kart Wii with us at Game Night!

Having run Game Night for almost two years now, we can safely say nobody there cheats. We all enjoy multiplayer games together, the way they were meant to be played. So check it out!


[Thanks, Rengifo!]

A fan of Mario Kart Wii? Us too, especially the tournaments, which there have been quite a few of. To check out the previous tournaments, click here, here, here, here, here, and here. And if you fancy yourself a good karter, check out Game Night for some of the community's best competition.

JoystiqMario Kart cheat allows unlimited blue shells originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Sep 2008 12:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheatcheatshackmariomario-kartmario-kart-wiiMon, 01 Sep 2008 12:19:00 EST<![CDATA[New Mario Kart tournament debuts for Wii Wheel racers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/new-mario-kart-tournament-debuts-for-wii-wheel-racers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/new-mario-kart-tournament-debuts-for-wii-wheel-racers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/26/new-mario-kart-tournament-debuts-for-wii-wheel-racers/#commentsFiled under: ,


A fresh tournament is about to spring on Mario Kart Wii fans. Starting September 1st and concluding on September 10th, this latest tourney is only for those that rock the Wii Wheel and will take place on the N64 Skyscraper Battle Stage. It's a straight up race, so you've got to bring your best time to the course, all the while dodging the explosive Bob-omb cars that are racing towards you. Sounds like a tense race!


[Via WiiFolder]

A fan of Mario and the gang? You should check out our weekly feature, It's-a Mario World, in which we discuss Nintendo's portly plumber and the world he calls home. Or, if Mario Kart is your only reason for loving the guy, check out our week of features celebrating the franchise leading up to the release of the latest game right here.

JoystiqNew Mario Kart tournament debuts for Wii Wheel racers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlemariomario-kart-wiin64n64-skyscrapertouornamentwii-wheelTue, 26 Aug 2008 14:35:00 EST<![CDATA[So apparently this Wii thing is popular?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/so-apparently-this-wii-thing-is-popular/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/so-apparently-this-wii-thing-is-popular/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/21/so-apparently-this-wii-thing-is-popular/#commentsFiled under: ,


Pow! Blam! Thwack! That's the sound of the Wii's biggest software performers in 2008 so far. The likes of Super Smash Bros. Brawl, Wii Fit, and Mario Kart Wii have taken some of the the top places in a new Top Global Markets Report, as calculated by chart specialists Enterbrain (Japan), NPD (the U.S.) and Gfk Chart-Track (the UK).

Although top spot goes to Grand Theft Auto IV (6.29 million copies sold in 2008 so far), the next four places feature Wii games, three of which are exclusives. Brawl (5.4 million) was runner-up, while Mario Kart Wii (4.6 million) and Wii Fit (3.6 million) reached third and fourth respectively. Guitar Hero III (just under 3.4 million) was fifth; obviously, the Wii also had a hand in that.

What does this prove? Well, little that we didn't already know: that Nintendo's console and games are obscenely popular -- even when said games cost way more than regular titles. With four months of the year still to go, we wouldn't rule out one or more of those Nintendo exclusives overhauling that insolent Russian Niko. Commence yaaaaying.

JoystiqSo apparently this Wii thing is popular? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Aug 2008 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessexergamingfightinggrand-theft-autoindustrymario-kart-wiiracingsmash-bros-brawlwii-fitThu, 21 Aug 2008 19:28:00 EST