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[RPG 'Mystic Chronicles' moves from iOS to PSP this summer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/rpg-mystic-chronicles-moves-from-ios-to-psp-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/rpg-mystic-chronicles-moves-from-ios-to-psp-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/rpg-mystic-chronicles-moves-from-ios-to-psp-this-summer/#comments RPG 'Mystic Chronicles' moves from iOS to PSPNatsume is localizing the PSP version of Kemco's Mystic Chronicles, a retro-style RPG developed by Kemco. Yes, Kemco's back, and has been quietly releasing RPGs on iOS and Android for a while! In fact, Mystic Chronicles was one of those mobile releases. Siliconera notes that it was called Fantasy Chronicles on iOS, and featured what appears to be a different translation.

Mystic Chronicles is a turn-based game in which protagonist Lux and other characters are accompanied by AI "guardian beasts," whose assignments and basic behaviors can be set by the player.

The PSP version is due this summer, and we hope for Natsume's sake it'll be downloadable on Vita immediately.

Gallery: Mystic Chronicles (PSP)

Continue reading RPG 'Mystic Chronicles' moves from iOS to PSP this summer

JoystiqRPG 'Mystic Chronicles' moves from iOS to PSP this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kemcomystic-chroniclesnatsumeplaystationpspsonyWed, 10 Apr 2013 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Wada's Project Happiness is now Hometown Story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/wadas-project-happiness-is-now-hometown-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/wadas-project-happiness-is-now-hometown-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/wadas-project-happiness-is-now-hometown-story/#comments
"Project Happiness," the enchantingly adorable shopkeeper simulation by Harvest Moon creator Yasuhiro Wada, now has an official title: Hometown Story. The "story" in the title is meant to show the game's emphasis on meeting and learning about new townspeople by growing your shop, over simply conducting business for its own sake.

The character designs, by Atsuko Nishida, have simplified since the prototype footage, showing a game that looks more like it's running on a 3DS. And it's still really, really, really heartwarmingly cute. It's due this year; Natsume has said it's coming to 3DS and mobile.

JoystiqWada's Project Happiness is now Hometown Story originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dshometown-storymobilenatsumenintendoproject-happinesstoyboxtoybox-incMon, 04 Mar 2013 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon celebrates 15th anniversary with PS Plus sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/harvest-moon-celebrates-15th-anniversary-with-ps-plus-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/harvest-moon-celebrates-15th-anniversary-with-ps-plus-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/harvest-moon-celebrates-15th-anniversary-with-ps-plus-sale/#comments Holy Harvest Moon sale, Batman!To celebrate Harvest Moon's 15th anniversary, five classic Natsume games are on sale through the week for PlayStation Plus members, running 50 - 75 percent off.

The sale includes Adventures To Go!, Harvest Moon: Boy and Girl, Innocent Life: A Futuristic Harvest Moon and Reel Fishing: The Great Outdoors, each 50 percent off for $7.50. Harvest Moon: Hero of Leaf Valley is 75 percent off, also for $7.50.

Series publisher Natsume teases more Harvest Moon games coming to PSN, though it hasn't made any official announcements.

Continue reading Harvest Moon celebrates 15th anniversary with PS Plus sale

JoystiqHarvest Moon celebrates 15th anniversary with PS Plus sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Aug 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Harvest-MoonHarvest-Moon-Hero-of-Leaf-ValleyNATSUMEplaystationplaystation-plusps-plusps3saleSONYThu, 23 Aug 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Retail therapy: Wada's 'Project Happiness' is a shopkeeper's life]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/11/retail-therapy-wadas-project-happiness-is-a-shopkeepers-lif/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/11/retail-therapy-wadas-project-happiness-is-a-shopkeepers-lif/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/11/retail-therapy-wadas-project-happiness-is-a-shopkeepers-lif/#comments Retail therapy Wada's 'Project Happiness' is a shopkeeper's life
Harvest Moon creator Yasuhiro Wada and publisher Natsume revealed their next project together at E3. "Project Happiness" is a new IP in which you run a shop in a small village, buying and selling items to improve the shop and learning the stories of all the customers who come in over the years. Natsume later revealed plans to put it on 3DS and mobile; during an interview at E3, Wada said it was planned for a "variety of platforms."

Wada recruited top talent to create his new game. Character designs, for both humans and the adorable "sprite" creatures that inhabit the world, are by Pokemon character designer Atsuko Nishida. The music, including that heard in the above trailer, is composed by legendary Final Fantasy series composer Nobuo Uematsu.

Continue reading Retail therapy: Wada's 'Project Happiness' is a shopkeeper's life

JoystiqRetail therapy: Wada's 'Project Happiness' is a shopkeeper's life originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jun 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dse3-2012mobilenatsumenintendoproject-happinesstoybox-incyasuhiro-wadaMon, 11 Jun 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon creator working on new IP 'Project Happiness' for Natsume]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/31/harvest-moon-creator-working-on-new-ip-project-happiness-for-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/31/harvest-moon-creator-working-on-new-ip-project-happiness-for-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/31/harvest-moon-creator-working-on-new-ip-project-happiness-for-n/#comments Talking to us at GDC about his new company Toybox, Harvest Moon creator Yasuhiro Wada hinted at upcoming announcements for E3. Today, Natsume revealed that Toybox will develop a new IP codenamed "Project Happiness," with Natsume publishing the unknown game in North America and Rising Star Games publishing in Europe.

"Project Happiness is an IP that is very close to my heart, and stems from years of working on other great titles like the Harvest Moon series," Wada said in the announcement. "Project Happiness is not only meant to be a fun game experience, but I also want it to help expand the player's view of the world, and make them ponder what their life means to them." It's a tall order, and one we're not sure will lead to happiness in all cases.

Natsume and Wada will reveal more about Project Happiness at E3, and Joystiq will be there to tell you about it.

Continue reading Harvest Moon creator working on new IP 'Project Happiness' for Natsume

JoystiqHarvest Moon creator working on new IP 'Project Happiness' for Natsume originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>natsumeproject-happinessrising-star-gamestoybox-incyasuhiro-wadaThu, 31 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Start (farm) fresh in Harvest Moon: A New Beginning for 3DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/start-farm-fresh-in-harvest-moon-a-new-beginning-for-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/start-farm-fresh-in-harvest-moon-a-new-beginning-for-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/start-farm-fresh-in-harvest-moon-a-new-beginning-for-3ds/#comments ImageOn the 15th anniversary year of the North American debut of Harvest Moon, Natsume will introduce a new 3DS edition of the farming game with features never seen before - you know, to keep the vegetation from growing stale.

Harvest Moon: A New Beginning puts an emphasis on customization, allowing you to build your own character, buy and design furniture for your house, decorate the nearby village, and move stuff on your farm around ... which can't be good for the crops.

In A New Beginning, you start a farm up around Echo Village to revitalize the town and bring people and animals back. It'll be out this year, and will be shown off as part of Natsume's Harvest Moon celebration at E3.

Continue reading Start (farm) fresh in Harvest Moon: A New Beginning for 3DS

JoystiqStart (farm) fresh in Harvest Moon: A New Beginning for 3DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 May 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsharvest-moonharvest-moon-a-new-beginningnatsumenintendoTue, 29 May 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ESA members asked individually about SOPA, some respond]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/sopa-list-esa/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/sopa-list-esa/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/sopa-list-esa/#comments Rock, Paper, Shotgun collaborated in obtaining responses.
The Entertainment Software Association's support of the "Stop Online Piracy Act" has led us to ask every member of the video game industry's lobbying and political group to publicly declare its stance on the bill. The ESA's continued support means every member, by proxy, is a supporter of the bill.

Some companies have pulled their logos from supporting SOPA documentation to dodge ire, while others are hiding behind rhetoric, as you'll see below. Joystiq contacted every member of the ESA and requested a declarative statement on SOPA. After the break we've listed the responses we've received, along with others we found. We continue to seek clarity on this issue from every member of the ESA.

This will become the page we update as we receive responses and clear declarative statements, so feel free to bookmark.

(Joystiq does not support SOPA, nor does our parent company.)

Continue reading ESA members asked individually about SOPA, some respond

JoystiqESA members asked individually about SOPA, some respond originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>345-games38-studios505-gamescapcomdeep-silverdisneydisney-interactiveeaeidoseidos-interactiveelectronic-artsEntertainment-software-associationepic-gamesESAfutureher-interactiveignition-entertainmentkonamilevel-5microsoftnamconatsumenexonnintendonivalnvidiao-gamesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpoliticssegaslangsonysony-online-entertainmentSOPAsquare-enixstop-online-piracy-acttake-twotake-two-interactivethqtrionubisoftwarner-bros-interactivewbieFri, 06 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon: The Tale of Two Towns headed to DS and 3DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/harvest-moon-the-tale-of-two-towns-headed-to-ds-and-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/harvest-moon-the-tale-of-two-towns-headed-to-ds-and-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/07/harvest-moon-the-tale-of-two-towns-headed-to-ds-and-3ds/#comments Harvest Moon: The Tale of Two Towns will launch simultaneously on the DS and 3DS in North America this summer. A 3DS Harvest Moon was previously revealed, but we weren't aware of the dual platform launch.

The latest Harvest Moon plot revolves around two towns torn apart by a rivalry over food. As a new farmer, players will have to choose between the crop-lovin' Eastern-styled town of Konohana or the meat-meat-meat, European-styled Bluebell. In time, players will bring a truce between the towns -- likely by developing an industrial farming complex that buys out both towns and places all the local farmers into indentured servitude.

Continue reading Harvest Moon: The Tale of Two Towns headed to DS and 3DS

JoystiqHarvest Moon: The Tale of Two Towns headed to DS and 3DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsharvest-moon-3dsharvest-moon-tale-of-two-townsMarvelousmarvelous-entertainmentNATSUMEnintendoThu, 07 Apr 2011 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Reel Fishing Paradise 3D for 3DS puts fish in your face]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/reel-fishing-paradise-3d-for-3ds-puts-fish-in-your-face/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/reel-fishing-paradise-3d-for-3ds-puts-fish-in-your-face/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/reel-fishing-paradise-3d-for-3ds-puts-fish-in-your-face/#comments Natsume's Reel Fishing series is going to get a bit more "reel" with the addition of a third dimension. The publisher has announced a 3DS iteration of its fishing franchise, out some time this spring.

Reel Fishing Paradise 3D will include a variety of fishing venues, including "tranquil lakes, rocky coasts, flooded forests, and more." Good thing those forests are flooded, or you'd have a hard time navigating a boat through them. Paradise features customizable and upgradeable equipment, too, allowing you to blame your particular combination of reel, bait, etc. every single time you fail.

Gallery: Reel Fishing Paradise 3D (3DS)

Continue reading Reel Fishing Paradise 3D for 3DS puts fish in your face

JoystiqReel Fishing Paradise 3D for 3DS puts fish in your face originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Feb 2011 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnatsumereel-fishingreel-fishing-paradise-3dThu, 17 Feb 2011 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Famitsu: XBLA shmup Omega Five coming to 3DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/famitsu-xbla-shmup-omega-five-coming-to-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/famitsu-xbla-shmup-omega-five-coming-to-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/famitsu-xbla-shmup-omega-five-coming-to-3ds/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's okay if you don't remember Omega Five. The Natsume-developed side-scrolling shump hit XBLA (pictured) in early 2008 and has since shot into obscurity. According to Famitsu, the game is set to appear on Nintendo 3DS in Japan during Spring 2011 -- where it'll probably make a more memorable bow among a launch lineup otherwise devoid of "traditional" shoot-em-ups.

Hudson published Omega Five on XBLA. The company hasn't made a peep about the 3DS version, but we'll check in to see what -- if anything -- it has to say about a possible North American release.

JoystiqFamitsu: XBLA shmup Omega Five coming to 3DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Oct 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdshudsonnatsumenintendoOmega-Fiveq2-2011release-datespring-2011Mon, 11 Oct 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon 64 probably not coming out on Virtual Console]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/14/harvest-moon-64-probably-not-coming-out-on-virtual-console/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/14/harvest-moon-64-probably-not-coming-out-on-virtual-console/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/14/harvest-moon-64-probably-not-coming-out-on-virtual-console/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In our experience, there are two types of people in this world: Folks who think Harvest Moon 64 is the best game in the series, and total weirdos. The first group will likely be dismayed to read NerdMentality's recent interview with Natsume exec Graham Markay, who, when asked whether the title would ever make it onto the Virtual Console storefront, responded, "It will not. It will not. And it's not from lack of trying."

Markay explained that the code of the original title is "not an easy transfer," later adding "I shouldn't say it's never going to come out, but there's just a really, really, very small chance that it would ever come out." Great, Markay. Just leave that door open. Just keep us hanging onto that one sliver of hope as we attempt to get our fix by pulling 48-hour FarmVille binges. You're killing us, dude.

JoystiqHarvest Moon 64 probably not coming out on Virtual Console originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Aug 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harvest-moonharvest-moon-64natsumenintendovirtual-consolewiiSat, 14 Aug 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[VC in Brief: Wild Guns (SNES)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/31/vc-in-brief-wild-guns-snes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/31/vc-in-brief-wild-guns-snes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/31/vc-in-brief-wild-guns-snes/#commentsWhat better way to celebrate Memorial Day than by mowing down countless waves of evil henchmen and robots? Natsume's Wild Guns is a great arcade experience that both fans of shooters and crazy interpretations of historical events can get behind. Seriously, it's not a bad way to spend $8 (or hours of your time).
  • Wild Guns (SNES, 1 - 2 players, 800 Wii Points)
Every week, we like to check out what's new on the Virtual Console. We offer VC in Brief as a sort of taste to help you decide whether or not you would want the game in question. We also toss in our own two cents because we're pushy jerks like that.

JoystiqVC in Brief: Wild Guns (SNES) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 May 2010 21:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>natsumeshootersnesvc-in-briefvirtual-consolewild-gunsMon, 31 May 2010 21:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Natsume publishing Lufia: Curse of the Sinistrals in North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/natsume-publishing-lufia-curse-of-the-sinistrals-in-north-ameri/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/natsume-publishing-lufia-curse-of-the-sinistrals-in-north-ameri/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/natsume-publishing-lufia-curse-of-the-sinistrals-in-north-ameri/#commentsSquare Enix's DS remake of Lufia II is headed Stateside from an unexpected publisher -- by which we mean it's not Square Enix. Natsume, who surprised us by picking up Sony's Afrika, announced plans to release the game now called Lufia: Curse of the Sinistrals in North America this fall.

That's good news for gamers in more than one way -- had Square published the game itself, it would have had the customary $39.99 price tag put on Square DS games, while Natsume is only charging $30.

Curse of the Sinistrals takes the original turn-based SNES game, about monster hunter Maxim and his quest to defeat four "Sinistrals" before they destroy the world, and recasts it as an action RPG, with a combo system and the ability to switch characters mid-combo.

Gallery: Lufia: Curse Of The Sinistrals (DS)

JoystiqNatsume publishing Lufia: Curse of the Sinistrals in North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 May 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSlufialufia-curse-of-the-sinistralslufia-iinatsumeNintendorpgsquare-enixWed, 26 May 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday: Test drive Split/Second, ModNation Racers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/psn-tuesday-test-drive-split-second-modnation-racers/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/psn-tuesday-test-drive-split-second-modnation-racers/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/psn-tuesday-test-drive-split-second-modnation-racers/#comments
PSN Tuesday's big draw this week is kickin' the tires on Split/Second, developed by the same folks that brought us the equally gorgeous Pure. For those interested in DLC, there's new stuff for BioShock 2, Batman: Arkham Asylum and, naturally, LittleBigPlanet.

PSP owners can pick up Harvest Moon: Hero Of Leaf Valley and Worms: Battle Islands. Split/Second isn't the only racing game with a demo -- ModNation Racers is also available for a test drive. Check out the full update after the break.


Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list:
(Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)

Continue reading PSN Tuesday: Test drive Split/Second, ModNation Racers

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Test drive Split/Second, ModNation Racers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 May 2010 20:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Harvest-MoonHarvest-Moon-Hero-of-Leaf-ValleyMarvelous-InteractiveNatsumePSN-Storepsn-tuesdaypsn-weeklySimulationsplit-secondTue, 11 May 2010 20:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Witch's Wish materializes in stores this month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/witchs-wish-materializes-in-stores-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/witchs-wish-materializes-in-stores-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/witchs-wish-materializes-in-stores-this-month/#commentsHave you been hoping for a more specific release date for Natsume's Witch's Wish? Your hypothetical wish is granted! The publisher announced that the cute, magical adventure game has gone gold, with a release planned "toward the end of May" (we did say "more specific," and not "exact").

In Witch's Wish, a young student witch named Vicky uses her magic, accessed by drawing runes on the DS touch screen, to help the citizens of her magical town, take part in magical duels, and combat a mysterious "dark force." Whether or not this is the game for you, you probably agree that it's nice for Natsume to get away from Harvest Moon occasionally.

Gallery: Witch's Wish (DS)

JoystiqWitch's Wish materializes in stores this month originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 May 2010 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurenatsumerelease-datewitchs-wishWed, 05 May 2010 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Natsume grants a Witch's Wish on DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/natsume-grants-a-witchs-wish-on-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/natsume-grants-a-witchs-wish-on-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/natsume-grants-a-witchs-wish-on-ds/#commentsIf you're hoping to play a cute DS game starring a young witch, but not NIS's A Witch's Tale, Natsume has you covered. The publisher just announced Witch's Wish, a new game joining its DS lineup of extraordinarily quirky stuff.

Witch's Wish stars "Vicky," a girl who wants to go to Hogwarts witch school, and has to help save her town from some kind of "dark force" while simultaneously learning how to do magic. The ESRB reveals a bit more about the gameplay, describing "comical duel sequences" -- rock-paper-scissors style duels in which "buckets of water are dumped, little tornadoes may twirl, and bursts of cloud-and-fire are sent." Precious!

(Retailer orders for) Witch's Wish will be fulfilled this spring.

Gallery: Witch's Wish (DS)



JoystiqNatsume grants a Witch's Wish on DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Feb 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurenatsumewitchs-wishWed, 03 Feb 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon: Hero of Leaf Valley coming stateside in April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/31/harvest-moon-hero-of-leaf-valley-coming-stateside-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/31/harvest-moon-hero-of-leaf-valley-coming-stateside-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/31/harvest-moon-hero-of-leaf-valley-coming-stateside-in-april/#comments Considering the extent to which Farmville has enraptured the hearts and minds of 95 percent of the Facebook-using populace, we're not surprised that Natsume has decided to bring yet another installment in the Harvest Moon franchise to the States. According to the publisher, American store shelves will play host to Harvest Moon: Hero of Leaf Valley for the PSP in April.

The game will task you with staving off the expansion of The Funland Corporation's chain of amusement parks into your home town of Leaf Valley. You'll do so in the most logical manner imaginable: by repeatedly performing various agricultural chores. Yeah, that'll show 'em!

Editor's Note: This announcement was posted earlier on Joystiq PlayStation. We apologize for the excessive publication of this news.

JoystiqHarvest Moon: Hero of Leaf Valley coming stateside in April originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 31 Jan 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Harvest-Moon-Hero-of-Leaf-ValleyMarvelousMarvelous-InteractiveNatsumeSun, 31 Jan 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon: Hero of Leaf Valley coming to PSP this April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/harvest-moon-hero-of-new-leaf-coming-to-psp-this-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/harvest-moon-hero-of-new-leaf-coming-to-psp-this-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/harvest-moon-hero-of-new-leaf-coming-to-psp-this-april/#comments Natsume continues milking the Harvest Moon franchise, with a new game coming to the PSP later this year. Hero of Leaf Valley promises to be "the biggest PSP Harvest Moon adventure yet." This time around, players must farm their hearts out in order to save Leaf Valley from the evil Funland Corporation. Multiple endings are promised -- we hope one of them involves your vegetables combining to form a mech that destroys Funland Corp. (That might be unlikely, though.)

Harvest Moon: Hero of Leaf Valley will be available in April for $29.99.

Gallery: Harvest Moon: Hero of Leaf Valley

JoystiqHarvest Moon: Hero of Leaf Valley coming to PSP this April originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harvest-moonharvest-moon-hero-of-leaf-valleyMarvelous-InteractivenatsumeSimulationThu, 28 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Natsume's Squishy Tank and Cheer We Go available on DS in March]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/natsumes-squishy-tank-and-cheer-we-go-available-on-ds-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/natsumes-squishy-tank-and-cheer-we-go-available-on-ds-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/natsumes-squishy-tank-and-cheer-we-go-available-on-ds-in-march/#commentsThere's bound to be someone else out there waiting for news about Natsume's super-cute artillery puzzle game Squishy Tank, because we know we are. Natsume just announced that both that puzzler and Cheer We Go will be released in March, which is ... unfortunately, so overloaded that these games are likely to founder in even deeper obscurity than they would anyway.

Squishy Tank, based on a series of Japanese Flash animations, is a color-matching game with soft, animate tank characters and adorable parody minigames. Cheer We Go is a rhythm-based game in which the player revitalizes a failed town, home to terrible sports teams and widespread despair, with cheerleading! The games will retail for $20 each.

Gallery: Squishy Tank (DS)


Gallery: Cheer We Go (DS)

JoystiqNatsume's Squishy Tank and Cheer We Go available on DS in March originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jan 2010 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheer-we-gonatsumepuzzlerhythmsquishy-tankyawaraka-senshaFri, 22 Jan 2010 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Going to Afrika will be affordable]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/09/going-to-afrika-will-be-affordable/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/09/going-to-afrika-will-be-affordable/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/09/going-to-afrika-will-be-affordable/#comments
Natsume is finally bringing the long-delayed Afrika to American audiences this year. The nature-themed photography game is very much a niche title, but its production values are far beyond what a typical budget game offers. Pricing is a tricky subject for the publisher to handle, as its games aren't meant really for casual gamers. "We are not so interested in the so-called 'value' titles," Yasuhiro Maekawa explained to Gamasutra. "Most of the Natsume games I'd say are about in the middle. Sort of normal retail price titles with normal graphical levels."

So what will the publisher pursue for Afrika? "For a PlayStation 3 title, this will probably be $49.99. That's what we're thinking. Between $39.99 and $49.99. $59.99 is probably too much." At $50, Afrika isn't really a "budget" game, but it's still cheaper than the average new PS3 game. Is that low enough for you to consider purchasing the game? Or should it drop down to $40?

JoystiqGoing to Afrika will be affordable originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>afrikabudgetnatsumeThu, 09 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rune Factory 3 sprouts on DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/rune-factory-3-sprouts-on-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/rune-factory-3-sprouts-on-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/rune-factory-3-sprouts-on-ds/#commentsThe Rune Factory series is showing that it is still, at heart, part of the Harvest Moon franchise -- mostly by having lots of sequels. The latest issue of Famitsu reveals another, Rune Factory 3 for DS. This is actually the fourth Rune Factory, counting Frontier on Wii.

In addition to his duties as a farmer, new protagonist Maisu, who features a character design right out of Tetsuya Nomura's sketchbook, can transform into monsters, gaining different abilities in battle and interacting differently with other characters out of battle.

According to IGN's translation, the game now features "active seeds" that grow into plants that can be used in battle! Most exciting farming game ever.

JoystiqRune Factory 3 sprouts on DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmingmarvelousnatsumerpgrune-factoryrune-factory-3Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NintendoWare Weekly: Water Warfare in for a Reel Fishing Challenge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/nintendoware-weekly-water-warfare-in-for-a-reel-fishing-challen/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/nintendoware-weekly-water-warfare-in-for-a-reel-fishing-challen/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/29/nintendoware-weekly-water-warfare-in-for-a-reel-fishing-challen/#comments
It wouldn't be Monday without new games to download across Nintendo platforms. This week's highlight is definitely Hudson's first-person soaker, Water Warfare. It's a neat concept, but we really think Hudson could've spent some time tightening up the graphics on level three.

Gallery: Water Warfare

Continue reading NintendoWare Weekly: Water Warfare in for a Reel Fishing Challenge

JoystiqNintendoWare Weekly: Water Warfare in for a Reel Fishing Challenge originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agetecDSdsidsiwarefantasy-zonefantasy-zone-iihudsonnatsumeNintendonintendo-dsinintendoware-weeklyreel-fishingreel-fishing-challengesegasega-master-systemsilver-star-reversivirtual-consolewater-warfareWiiwiiwareMon, 29 Jun 2009 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[How Natsume picked up Afrika (bonus: trophies confirmed!)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/how-natsume-picked-up-afrika-bonus-trophies-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/how-natsume-picked-up-afrika-bonus-trophies-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/how-natsume-picked-up-afrika-bonus-trophies-confirmed/#commentsWhen Sony first revealed Afrika, it was a marquee first-party PS3 title used to show off the power of the system. Three years later, it's finally being released in North America, by tiny third-party publisher Natsume, who is more familiar with Harvest Moon and handheld games than anything shown off at a press conference. How did this happen?

According to Graham Markay, Vice President of Operations for Natsume, Finny the Fish was instrumental in the deal. No, really. Sony's Uo: Nanatsu no Mizu to Densetsu no Nushi was localized on the PS2 by Natsume as Finny the Fish & the Seven Waters.

"We have a relationship with Sony Japan," Markay explained. "You might remember Finny the Fish? That game was done by Sony Japan. So we licensed that game from them. We have a little bit of a history with their licensing department in Japan." Because of this relationship, Natsume was one of the companies contacted by Sony Japan about the game. Markay said that Afrika "really fits with the Natsume theme" because it's non-violent and nature-oriented. We might add that it fits with the Natsume theme so well that the company is simultaneously releasing a different safari photography game on the Wii.

In case you need an extra incentive to buy Afrika, Markay confirmed that "there is going to be a trophy system, which wasn't in the Asian release or Japanese release."

Gallery: Afrika

JoystiqHow Natsume picked up Afrika (bonus: trophies confirmed!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>afrikanatsumesafaritrophiesWed, 17 Jun 2009 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Impressions: Afrika]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/10/impressions-afrika/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/10/impressions-afrika/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/10/impressions-afrika/#commentsPokémon Snap fans, beware! Afrika is the Pokémon game you know and love, just all grown up ... and, ya know, without all those Pocket Monsters. Instead, you're chasing around lions and tigers and, erm, zebras with fancy Sony brand cameras, trying your best to capture shots and not get trampled.

Oh, wait, that's right! There is no "trample." In fact, there's no interaction with the animals of any kind. You don't even get the satisfaction of oddly petting them like in Endless Ocean. With Afrika, you get an African safari simulator and little else. Which really makes it hard for us to even classify Afrika as a "game" as opposed to edutainment. Sure, there are assignments and "challenges," should you so choose to engage them, but there is little (if any) real progression through the experience.

Better cameras do unlock as you complete assignments and a whole mess of National Geographic footage/stills/information also serve to reward various complete objectives, but none of this makes the "game" any more game-ey. Those of you looking for an interactive African safari simulation, Afrika is for you. For those of you whose first interest is seeing if you can run down a rhino, look elsewhere -- this "game" ain't for you.

Gallery: Afrika

JoystiqImpressions: Afrika originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>afrikae3-2009impressionsnational-geographicnatsumesafarisimulationWed, 10 Jun 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Natsume announces new cheery, squishy games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/natsume-announces-new-cheery-squishy-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/natsume-announces-new-cheery-squishy-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/natsume-announces-new-cheery-squishy-games/#commentsNatsume's E3 lineup features mostly what you would expect from Natsume (Harvest Moon and lots of it, plus the previously announced Afrika on PS3), but the company revealed a few unannounced games, some of which are even surprising.

The WiiWare Harvest Moon game, Harvest Moon Ranch Store, is being localized as Harvest Moon: My Little Shop, which is pretty adorable. The company has also announced a new cheerleading game called Cheer We Go for the DS, as well as Squishy Tank, a puzzle game about little animate tanks. If it looks familiar to you, you were probably a really attentive DS Fanboy reader: it's a localized version of Yawaraka Sensha, a licensed puzzle game released last year in Japan by Success.

Gallery: Squishy Tank (DS)

JoystiqNatsume announces new cheery, squishy games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 May 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheer-we-goharvest-moonharvest-moon-my-little-shopnatsumepuzzlesquishy-tankwiiwareThu, 28 May 2009 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Natsume pulls a Pangea, bringing Afrika to North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/natsume-pulls-a-pangea-bringing-afrika-to-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/natsume-pulls-a-pangea-bringing-afrika-to-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/27/natsume-pulls-a-pangea-bringing-afrika-to-north-america/#comments
For a game that we didn't really care all that much about in the first place, Afrika sure has had a circuitous route in getting to us. After seeing the game at a Sony press briefing 137 years ago, we figured it was unlikely the photography sim would come stateside. But in November, National Geographic changed all that when it revealed that it would be publishing the game (and swapping the "k" for a "c").

But this morning we hear from IGN that the North American rights have been picked up by Natsume. OK, listen, it's been in so many hands, we know there's not an integrity issue here, so it would it have killed one of you to slip a gun in there? Taking pictures of animals? Boring. Knowing you'll be the last person to ever take a picture of said animal? Worth at least a rental.

Gallery: Afrika

JoystiqNatsume pulls a Pangea, bringing Afrika to North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 May 2009 15:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>afrikanatsumephotographyWed, 27 May 2009 15:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Adventures to Go brings ... adventures to go on PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/adventures-to-go-brings-adventures-to-go-on-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/adventures-to-go-brings-adventures-to-go-on-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/adventures-to-go-brings-adventures-to-go-on-psp/#comments
We love straightforward titles. That's why we approve of Natsume's newly announced Adventures to Go for PSP. It's yet another addition to PSP's expansive SRPG library, but Natsume plans on taking a more humorous approach than traditional strategy games. Players will take control of Finn Courtland and his "band of misfits" on a quest to fight demons and save the world (real original, right?). Players will be able to set up the game's randomized dungeons by choosing the terrain, the size of the dungeon and the types of monsters players will face. The riskier dungeons will provide even larger rewards.

Adventures to Go has a planned summer release, and will make its first public appearance at E3. You can check out the first screenshots in our gallery below:

JoystiqAdventures to Go brings ... adventures to go on PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 May 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventures-to-godungeonnatsumesrpgTue, 19 May 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Animal Kingdom: Wildlife Expedition spotted in its natural habitat]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/07/animal-kingdom-wildlife-expedition-spotted-in-its-natural-habit/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/07/animal-kingdom-wildlife-expedition-spotted-in-its-natural-habit/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/07/animal-kingdom-wildlife-expedition-spotted-in-its-natural-habit/#commentsLast year, we idly mused that Success Corp.'s Amazing Animals, a Wii safari game, looked kind of neat. Now, Natsume will give us a chance to experience the kind-of-neatness for ourselves! The company announced today that it has picked up North American publishing rights for the title.

Confirming our previous assumption about the gameplay, Natsume explains that Animal Kingdom: Wildlife Expedition is a wildlife photography game in an African setting. "Each day, [players will] be tasked with completing specific assignments, such as taking pictures of particular animals, groups of animals, or animals engaged in certain actions. Players will see a variety of exotic wildlife on their expedition, including gazelles, gorillas, and elephants." So basically it's Sony's Afrika, but cuter and less likely to be used as a TV demo in electronics stores.

Natsume will be displaying Animal Kingdom at E3. We're so glad Natsume decided upon the Animal Kingdom name, by the way. We've never been happier with a regional name change. The title of the game in Europe is ... Safar'Wii.

Gallery: Animal Kingdom: Wildlife Expedition (Wii)

JoystiqAnimal Kingdom: Wildlife Expedition spotted in its natural habitat originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 May 2009 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazing-animalsanimal-kingdom-wildlife-expeditionnatsumephotographysafarisuccess-corpThu, 07 May 2009 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Natsume grows another Harvest Moon puzzle game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/17/natsume-grows-another-harvest-moon-puzzle-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/17/natsume-grows-another-harvest-moon-puzzle-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/17/natsume-grows-another-harvest-moon-puzzle-game/#commentsNatsume has announced another Harvest Moon game, which, in itself, isn't much of a surprise. But Harvest Moon: Frantic Farming is not the same Harvest Moon that we see two or three times a year, localized from a Marvelous farming game. Instead, it's the second original Harvest Moon game from Natsume itself. It's also a sequel to the first one!

Frantic Farming is a sequel to 2007's Puzzle de Harvest Moon, this time set in the world of Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness. It looks to have the same gameplay, which turns planting, watering, and harvesting into a tile-based, quick puzzle game. Players can go through the game's story mode with each of 12 characters, as they work to solve the mystery of why the island is suddenly overrun with vegetables. Apparently the best way to solve this is to, uh, plant more vegetables.

Puzzle de Harvest Moon's core gameplay was interesting, but the game was a bit too light on substance, and a bit too easy to complete by randomly scribbling. We're hoping that the added modes will allow Frantic Farming when it comes out this May.

Gallery: Harvest Moon: Frantic Farming (DS)

JoystiqNatsume grows another Harvest Moon puzzle game originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Feb 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harvest-moon-frantic-farmingnatsumepuzzlepuzzle-de-harvest-moonTue, 17 Feb 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Natsume has (Fish) Eyes for the Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/natsume-has-fish-eyes-for-the-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/natsume-has-fish-eyes-for-the-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/natsume-has-fish-eyes-for-the-wii/#commentsFiled under: ,


Remember Fish Eyes? If not, you may be more familiar with its western name, Reel Fishing. The series has been staying very still and quiet in a tiny boat since 1996, popping out a new game every few years. It is the very antithesis of something like the mad, hyperactive Fishing Master: World Tour. This is serious fishing business.

So far, the games have been met with a shaky critical reception, but that hasn't prevented Natsume and Marvelous from thinking Fish Eyes Wii might a good idea. Maybe it is, and the waggle factor will help reinvigorate the franchise! If the screens from the official site are anything to go by, Fish Eyes Wii appears to mimic previous titles in the series by using animated CG backgrounds. That doesn't guarantee a good game, of course, but it sure makes for a very purdy view.


[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqNatsume has (Fish) Eyes for the Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jan 2009 18:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fish-eyes-wiifishingmarvelousnatsumereel-fishingsportFri, 16 Jan 2009 18:12:00 EST<![CDATA[New Harvest Moon title coming March 2009 in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/new-harvest-moon-title-coming-march-2009-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/new-harvest-moon-title-coming-march-2009-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/new-harvest-moon-title-coming-march-2009-in-japan/#commentsFiled under:


According to Weekly Famitsu, a brand new Harvest Moon title will be making its way onto on the PSP this upcoming March in Japan. In Harvest Moon: Sugar Village, the third PSP title of the farm simulator franchise, you are responsible for the fate of a ... you guessed it, village. Gameplay elements include the ability to make home improvements to your house and to woo girls -- honestly, this sounds just like every other Harvest Moon game. No word yet on whether this game will see a release in the Western market.

[Via PSPHyper]

JoystiqNew Harvest Moon title coming March 2009 in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harvest-moonmarvelous-interactivenatsumeWed, 10 Dec 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rune Factory 2 manufactures U.S. release date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/rune-factory-2-manufactures-u-s-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/rune-factory-2-manufactures-u-s-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/rune-factory-2-manufactures-u-s-release-date/#commentsFiled under:


Marvelous has confirmed it will release Rune Factory 2 into the crowded, choppy waters of the Christmas games market, announcing a November 18th release date for the fantasy-themed farm-me-do.

As that's still four weeks away, we advise passing time by reading up on our hands-on experience with the title, planning crop strategies, and preordering at either Gamestop or Amazon for your very own plush squirrel. Oh yes, and saving money. We're not kidding. Have you seen the DS line-up for November 18th? Yowza.


[Via press release]

JoystiqRune Factory 2 manufactures U.S. release date originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harvest-moonmarvelousnatsumerune-factory-2Tue, 21 Oct 2008 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[TGS08: Rising Star reveals four for Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/tgs08-rising-star-reveals-four-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/tgs08-rising-star-reveals-four-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/tgs08-rising-star-reveals-four-for-europe/#commentsFiled under: ,


Rising Star Games just unfurled an official list of Marvelous games that it plans to localize for Europe, including Luminous Arc 2, Avalon Code, Rune Factory 2, and a fourth game that is yet to be announced for North America: Steal Princess. We expected most (if not all) of these to reach us at some point, mainly because Rising Star Games is totally awesome and we love them.

Previous evidence has suggested that Steal Princess and Luminous Arc 2 won't be appearing before the end of March 2009, but we can't be mad at Marvelous. The company has had an action-packed Tokyo Game Show, and this is the cherry on top of a whole pile of other excellent announcements for Nintendo fans. Make the jump for screens, screens, and more screens!

Gallery: Steal Princess

Continue reading TGS08: Rising Star reveals four for Europe

JoystiqTGS08: Rising Star reveals four for Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arpgatlusavalon-codeclimaxeuropeharvest-moonimage-epochlocalizationluminous-arc-2marvelousmatrix-softwarenatsumepuzzlerising-star-gamesrpgrune-factory-2srpgsteal-princessMon, 13 Oct 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rune Factory 2 preorder bonus is nuts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/rune-factory-2-preorder-bonus-is-nuts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/rune-factory-2-preorder-bonus-is-nuts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/rune-factory-2-preorder-bonus-is-nuts/#commentsFiled under: ,

Well, nut. Acorn, really. Plush acorn ... in the grip of a plush squirrel. Never mind. Chances are, if you're a fan of, uh, fantasy-themed farming simulations, you've already got a copy of Rune Factory 2 preordered -- if only because there are no games in that narrow subgenre that aren't called Rune Factory.

But hey, even if you don't care about growing whatever or tending whatever or fighting whatever, Natsume will give you this plush squirrel if you preorder their game from Amazon. They keep trying to use cute plushes to sell us games ... and it continues to have a shockingly powerful effect on our resolve. Marvelous is at least as talented at designing adorable, plush-ready mascot characters as they are at designing repetitive, addictive games.

JoystiqRune Factory 2 preorder bonus is nuts originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Oct 2008 12:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harvest-moonmarvelousnatsumeplushrune-factory-2Tue, 07 Oct 2008 12:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon: Waku Waku Animal Puppets]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/harvest-moon-waku-waku-animal-puppets/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/harvest-moon-waku-waku-animal-puppets/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/30/harvest-moon-waku-waku-animal-puppets/#commentsFiled under: ,


Our Japanese is not quite good enough to ascertain the nuances of this dramatic scene, but what we could understand was self-evident anyway. In this ad for Harvest Moon: Waku Waku Animal March, the frog wants the cow to give him a ride like the animals in the game do.

The cow (spoilers!) relents, and the frog gleefully hops on, only to find the ride slow. The cow complains about being out of energy, and the frog cheers him on, telling him to summon his "cow power." Then the frog takes off on a date with Keromi-chan.

In the second part, after the break, the frog and cow decide to make use of Waku Waku Animal March's photo features. Wackiness ensues, culminating with the frog asking the cow to take some "sexy" shots.

And that's why you should buy Harvest Moon: Waku Waku Animal March.

Continue reading Harvest Moon: Waku Waku Animal Puppets

JoystiqHarvest Moon: Waku Waku Animal Puppets originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Sep 2008 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harvest-moonHarvest-Moon-Animal-ParademarvelousMarvelous-InteractivenatsumepuppetsSimulationwaku-waku-animal-marchTue, 30 Sep 2008 09:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Draw Harvest Moon art to win a bumper crop from Natsume]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/draw-harvest-moon-art-to-win-a-bumper-crop-from-natsume/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/draw-harvest-moon-art-to-win-a-bumper-crop-from-natsume/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/02/draw-harvest-moon-art-to-win-a-bumper-crop-from-natsume/#commentsFiled under:

Do you like drawing Harvest Moon cows over, and over, and over again? We're not going to go investigating (for the same reason we try not to investigate any fanart on the intertron), but we suspect that there is a thriving Harvest Moon fanart community -- and they're going to love this.

To celebrate the tenth anniversary of the farming series, Natsume is giving away a pile of stuff, including a DS Lite Kit, a plush cow and chicken, strategy guides for both Island of Happiness on the DS and Tree of Tranquility on the Wii, and unspecified "additional goodies!"

All you have to do is draw a picture (like, on paper) featuring any character and any animal from a Harvest Moon game, and mail it in. Twenty winners will get stuff! Official rules can be found at the link.

JoystiqDraw Harvest Moon art to win a bumper crop from Natsume originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmingharvest-moonmarvelousnatsumesimulationtree-of-tranquilityTue, 02 Sep 2008 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon: Waku Waku Animal March uses WiiConnect24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/harvest-moon-waku-waku-animal-march-uses-wiiconnect24/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/harvest-moon-waku-waku-animal-march-uses-wiiconnect24/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/harvest-moon-waku-waku-animal-march-uses-wiiconnect24/#commentsFiled under: ,

The official website for Bokujou Monogatari: Waku Waku Animal March has updated with new screens and art of all the super-adorable animals that will be featured -- the ones above can even be kept as pets. But even more heartwarming than cartoon pandas is the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection logo on the front page. The game supports WiiConnect24 in some as-yet-unspecified way -- sharing crops? Sending pictures of yourself riding a goat along the beach?

Marvelous has also announced the Japanese release date: October 30. Since this is a Harvest Moon game, we expect Natsume to pick it up for release here, but they've got to finish with Tree of Tranquility first. Less likely to leave Japan is the promotional campaign associated with Animal March, in which lucky winners will receive Harvest Moon stickers ... or yogurt.


[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqHarvest Moon: Waku Waku Animal March uses WiiConnect24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Aug 2008 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>farmingharvest-moonHarvest-Moon-Animal-ParademarvelousMarvelous-InteractivenatsumeSimulationwaku-waku-animal-marchFri, 22 Aug 2008 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Harvest Moon: Magical Melody port may take root in US soil]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/harvest-moon-magical-melody-port-may-take-root-in-us-soil/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/harvest-moon-magical-melody-port-may-take-root-in-us-soil/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/harvest-moon-magical-melody-port-may-take-root-in-us-soil/#commentsFiled under:

Harvest Moon: Magical Melody was released on the GameCube in 2006 in the US. Rising Star Games, Marvelous's European branch, then ported it to the Wii with new motion controls, releasing that version in March of this year. This makes sense for Europe, since the Wii was out by the time the GameCube version would have been released.

According to a Siliconera interview with Natsume president Yasuhiro Maekawa, the company is considering an American release of that ported Magical Melody. "If we were to release the Wii version of Magical Melody", Maekawa said, "we would most likely be looking at a limited release aimed at our hardcore and loyal fans. We have had quite a few requests to release this game and are looking into it." Limited-edition releases have the power both to tempt fence-sitters and to save money for publishers, so this approach is a smart one.

The rest of the interview discusses the history of the series and of Natsume's involvement, and is an excellent read for anyone with an interest in fake farming.

JoystiqHarvest Moon: Magical Melody port may take root in US soil originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 20:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europefarmingharvest-moonmagical-melodynatsumeportWed, 20 Aug 2008 20:18:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Wii Fanboy tends farm in Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/24/e308-wii-fanboy-tends-farm-in-harvest-moon-tree-of-tranquility/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/24/e308-wii-fanboy-tends-farm-in-harvest-moon-tree-of-tranquility/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/24/e308-wii-fanboy-tends-farm-in-harvest-moon-tree-of-tranquility/#commentsFiled under:

Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility is a big game. The first thing that I noticed was just how large the game world is. You aren't restricted to just one farm, instead able to spread many a seed across many a land. Aside from that, the game very much feels like all of the other Harvest Moon titles, which can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on whether you're a fan of the series or not.

Continue reading E308: Wii Fanboy tends farm in Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility

JoystiqE308: Wii Fanboy tends farm in Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Jul 2008 21:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2008e308harvest-moonHarvest-Moon-Tree-of-TranquilityjoystiqfeaturesMarvelous-InteractivenatsumesimSimulationtree-of-tranquilityThu, 24 Jul 2008 21:47:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: DS Fanboy raises its spirits with Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/24/e308-ds-fanboy-raises-its-spirits-with-harvest-moon-island-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/24/e308-ds-fanboy-raises-its-spirits-with-harvest-moon-island-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/24/e308-ds-fanboy-raises-its-spirits-with-harvest-moon-island-of/#commentsFiled under:

To be honest, the last time I played a Harvest Moon game, it was on the GameCube. We're talking years ago, folks. But, like riding a bike, Harvest Moon is an experience that doesn't change much over time. Fans like it that way, I imagine. And, just as I expected, Island of Happiness featured a lot of the same things previous titles in the franchise offered.

Continue reading E308: DS Fanboy raises its spirits with Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness

JoystiqE308: DS Fanboy raises its spirits with Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2008e308harvest-moonHarvest-Moon-DS-Island-of-Happinessisland-of-happinessjoystiqfeaturesMarvelous-InteractivenatsumesimSimulationThu, 24 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST