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[Zynga stock jumps after announcing a platform separate from Facebook]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/zynga-stock-jumps-after-announcing-a-platform-separate-from-face/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/zynga-stock-jumps-after-announcing-a-platform-separate-from-face/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/zynga-stock-jumps-after-announcing-a-platform-separate-from-face/#comments One of investors' main concerns when it comes to Zynga is the fact that it piggybacks on Facebook -- very successfully, mind you, but still, its entire multi-million dollar existence relies on a social networking platform that has a mind and billions of dollars of its own. Yesterday, when Zynga announced it will be launching its own gaming/social platform at zynga.com, investors perked up, and Zynga's stock rose 10 percent.

Zynga's stock had been trading at $13.43 and it rose to $14.49 by the end of the day yesterday. For once we agree with the stock market, at least in principle. Anything that puts Zynga in its own bubble that can only be reached by choice is a very, very good thing.

JoystiqZynga stock jumps after announcing a platform separate from Facebook originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidfacebookiosipadiphonemacmobilepcPlatformstocksZyngaFri, 02 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega announces Sonic Colors, coming to Wii and DS in late 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/sega-announces-sonic-colors-coming-to-wii-and-ds-in-late-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/sega-announces-sonic-colors-coming-to-wii-and-ds-in-late-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/sega-announces-sonic-colors-coming-to-wii-and-ds-in-late-2010/#comments Man, Sega's just full of surprises, isn't it? Earlier today, the company announced Sonic Colors (or Colours, if you live in a country that spells that word that ridiculous way). a new platformer featuring the blue hedgehog and his new troupe of polychromatic friends. Sonic will have to navigate a sci-fi themed amusement park to thwart the plans of -- who else -- Dr. Eggman by saving multicolored aliens, each of which bestow a certain special ability upon the series' attitude-filled protagonist. That sounds like it has the propensity be be more colorful and trippy than a Flaming Lips concert.

According to Sega Europe's blog, the game is set to drop for Wii and DS in late 2010. You can check out an extremely brief announcement trailer posted after the break.

[Thanks, RupeeClock]

Continue reading Sega announces Sonic Colors, coming to Wii and DS in late 2010

JoystiqSega announces Sonic Colors, coming to Wii and DS in late 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 May 2010 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementDSNintendoplatformsegasonicsonic-colorsWiiWed, 26 May 2010 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2 back on track for PC release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/12/dead-space-2-back-on-track-for-pc-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/12/dead-space-2-back-on-track-for-pc-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/12/dead-space-2-back-on-track-for-pc-release/#comments There was a bit of confusion following the release of EA's Q3 2010 investor's report, which seemed to omit a mention of a PC version of Visceral Games' next deep space horror-surgery title, Dead Space 2. The most definite answer EA could give us back in February about its intentions to bring the game to our compy was, "A PC SKU is under consideration." Now, after three months of heartfelt consideration, EA has come to a decision: Yes, fine, you can have Dead Space 2 on PC.

Those weren't EA's exact words, mind you -- rather, yesterday's Q4 2010 investor's report simply mentioned the game will launch on consoles, handhelds and PC. EA later confirmed via Tweet that the PC listing was legit, and not some kind of sick, twisted act of schadenfreude executed against personal computer enthusiasts.

JoystiqDead Space 2 back on track for PC release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 May 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>computerdead-spacedead-space-2eaElectronic-Artsplatformvisceral-gamesWed, 12 May 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Media Molecule re-confirms LittleBigPlanet 2, more details coming Monday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/08/media-molecule-re-confirms-littlebigplanet-2-more-details-comin/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/08/media-molecule-re-confirms-littlebigplanet-2-more-details-comin/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/08/media-molecule-re-confirms-littlebigplanet-2-more-details-comin/#comments Though the first day of the working week is typically despised by most intelligent lifeforms -- especially Garfield -- we've got something to look forward to this coming Monday. Following information about Game Informer's feature article on LittleBigPlanet 2, Media Molecule Tweeted that the game is, in fact, real, and that we can expect "full mega details on Monday."

Details supposedly culled from the Game Informer feature have already found their way online, but we think we can wait another 48 hours for the first-hand skinny.

[Thanks Luis!]

JoystiqMedia Molecule re-confirms LittleBigPlanet 2, more details coming Monday originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 08 May 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>littlebigplanetlittlebigplanet-2media-moleculeplatformsonySat, 08 May 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hideo Kojima envisions a platform-free future]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/07/hideo-kojima-envisions-a-platform-free-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/07/hideo-kojima-envisions-a-platform-free-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/07/hideo-kojima-envisions-a-platform-free-future/#comments In the future, games will no longer be bound by platforms. At least, that's what Metal Gear creator Hideo Kojima told the press at a conference for the upcoming Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker. Since the inception of the medium, games have largely been bound to a specific device. "Gamers should be able to take the experience with them in their living rooms, on the go, when they travel -- wherever they are and whenever they want to play. It should be the same software and the same experience," he said, according to Reuters.

As with movies and music, consumers have come to expect increased portability with their media. Whereas a decade ago, movies were largely viewed at home, now they can be watched on a computer, in a car, or even on a phone. Even now, Sony and Apple are offering some cross-platform gaming opportunities, with interoperability between the PSP and PS3, iPhone and iPad.

With the advent of cloud computing services, like OnLive and Gaikai, it seems we may not be too far off from Kojima's predicted future. Until then, though, you'll only be able to play Kojima's latest game on one platform -- the PSP.

JoystiqHideo Kojima envisions a platform-free future originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Apr 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hideo-kojimakojimametal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-peace-walkerplatformWed, 07 Apr 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[This Wednesday: Fret Nice, Greed Corp, and Lazy Raiders strike a chord on XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/this-wednesday-fret-nice-strikes-a-chord-on-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/this-wednesday-fret-nice-strikes-a-chord-on-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/this-wednesday-fret-nice-strikes-a-chord-on-xbla/#commentsFiled under: , ,

PS3 owners have had access to Pieces Interactive's Fret Nice since February 4, leaving Xbox 360 owners nothing to do with their guitar controllers but play rhythm games. According to an announcement from Major Nelson, those Xbox 360 guitarists will be able to experience Fret Nice's new type of guitar heroism this Wednesday, Feb. 24, at a cost of 1,200 ($15).

Fret Nice uses both the buttons and the tilt function of guitar controllers to move members of the Vibrant Chordblasters, as they fight against Hair Bängers by jumping into the air and playing riffs corresponding to the number of eyes on the enemies.

Major Nelson also confirmed to Joystiq that both Greed Corp and Lazy Raiders will be out this week, despite not appearing in the official announcement. You'll be able to get lazy and greedy this week, in addition to nice!

JoystiqThis Wednesday: Fret Nice, Greed Corp, and Lazy Raiders strike a chord on XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fret-niceGreed-Corplazy-raidersMicrosoftpieces-interactiveplatformplatformerPSNStrategytecmoValcon-GamesWGamesXBLAXbox-360Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[MAG designed to be a 'platform,' balancing patches coming soon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/mag-designed-to-be-a-platform-balancing-patches-coming-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/mag-designed-to-be-a-platform-balancing-patches-coming-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/mag-designed-to-be-a-platform-balancing-patches-coming-soon/#comments We recently got a chance to speak with Zipper Interactive's Alan Van Slyke, who produced the company's recently released multi-multi-multiplayer FPS, MAG. When asked about ongoing support for the title, Van Slyke responded that the developer won't let the game go stale -- in fact, he explained that Zipper sees MAG as a platform on which new content can be added in the future.

Van Slyke explained, "we made a big investment, we had a lot of learning, we built a lot of tech, and we have this awesome multiplayer platform that we can build upon and add new gametypes to." He later added, "the possibilities are endless for us, and in many ways, even though we just released the game, looking forward for us is super exciting, knowing what we can do with the engine we have today."

The producer also addressed concerns many players have had with balancing issues -- particularly that the ragtag S.V.E.R. faction is far too overpowered. "It's something we're definitely aware of, and we've already got a number of fixes in the pipe. We're definitely committed to making sure all the maps, factions and gear is perfectly balanced." For more information on MAG's past, present and future, check out our full interview with Van Slyke when it goes live tomorrow afternoon.

JoystiqMAG designed to be a 'platform,' balancing patches coming soon originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan-van-slykebalancingfactionsfpsmagonlinepatchplatformsverzipper-interactiveWed, 10 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard offers updated look at the new Battle.Net]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/blizzard-offers-updated-look-at-the-new-battle-net/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/blizzard-offers-updated-look-at-the-new-battle-net/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/10/blizzard-offers-updated-look-at-the-new-battle-net/#comments Let's be honest. Between Diablo III, Stacraft II and the new World of Warcraft expansion, we're all going to be pretty heavily embroiled in Blizzard's games over the next couple of years. That's why we were thrilled to see this recent update on the new Battle.Net, which has been renovated by Blizzard from the ground up to offer a Steam-esque cross-game platform for players of all Blizzard's titles.

A recent post on the StarCraft II blog reveals the three pillars of the service: Achievements for in-game deeds (which, in turn, unlock avatars and emblems for your profile); a beefy competitive ranking bracket and auto-matchmaking functionality; and social networking features available for everyone playing one of Blizzard's games online. It looks predictably slick -- check out some screenshots and a video of the interface on Blizzard's official blog.

JoystiqBlizzard offers updated look at the new Battle.Net originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle.netblizzarddiablodiablo-3platformrpgstacraftstarcraft-2strategyworld-of-warcraftworld-of-warcraft-cataclysmWed, 10 Feb 2010 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[This Week on the Nintendo Channel: Nintendo Week rips the lid off of it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-nintendo-week-rips-the-lid-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-nintendo-week-rips-the-lid-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-nintendo-week-rips-the-lid-of/#comments We usually don't buy into Nintendo Week's particular brand of family-friendly hype generation -- after all, this is a Nintendo-funded program and we'll be damned if we're going to let The Man tell us what we're going to like. But this week's update on the Nintendo Channel is pretty amusing, especially if you enjoy fake mustaches, fourth wall destruction and tips on playing New Super Mario Bros. Wii. Or, you know, ripping the lids off various things.

Head past the break for this week's content.

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>New-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendonintendo-channelnintendo-weekPlatformMon, 08 Feb 2010 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[This Week on the Nintendo Channel: Faux-fighting]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-faux-fighting/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-faux-fighting/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-faux-fighting/#comments We usually write off Nintendo Week as nothing more than the usual PR flim-flam, but this week's episode on the Nintendo Channel is one to watch. The segments on Muscle March, Super Mario RPG and Little King's Story are nice, but there's an important lesson to be learned here: New Super Mario Bros. Wii ruins friendships. If you plan on partaking in Mario and Co.'s latest outing on the Wii, make sure those bonds are krazy glue strong; otherwise, you'll do something cliched ... like divide the room in half with tape.

Head past the break for this week's Nintendo Channel content and be sure to check out the new Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth demo!

Continue reading This Week on the Nintendo Channel: Faux-fighting

JoystiqThis Week on the Nintendo Channel: Faux-fighting originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Feb 2010 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>little-kings-storymuscle-marchNew-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendonintendo-channelnintendo-weekPlatformsuper-mario-rpgMon, 01 Feb 2010 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: 'Nintendo, Mario in the world 1000 million for the new Wii']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/new-super-mario-bros-wii-tops-10-million-in-sales-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/new-super-mario-bros-wii-tops-10-million-in-sales-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/25/new-super-mario-bros-wii-tops-10-million-in-sales-worldwide/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Today's most confusing headline is brought to you by the Google translation of a Nikkei Net report that New Super Mario Bros. Wii has topped ten million (not one-thousand million) units sold worldwide since its release in mid-November (and early December in Japan). Frankly, we're downright shocked that this kind of game -- with such an unsavory cast of characters -- could sell like gangbusters. C'mon, all they ever do is kill each other!

The figure Nintendo is not sharing is the number of relationships that New Super Mario Bros. Wii has destroyed. Three and counting for me -- making it at least 30 million worldwide! Let's just say, Mom and Dad and a certain someone who is dead to me aren't allowed to visit again until they learn proper Propeller Suit etiquette.

JoystiqReport: 'Nintendo, Mario in the world 1000 million for the new Wii' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>New-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendoPlatformWorldwide-InvitationalMon, 25 Jan 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo celebrates DS, Wii, software sales milestones in Europe, U.S.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/nintendo-celebrates-ds-wii-software-sales-milestones-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/nintendo-celebrates-ds-wii-software-sales-milestones-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/05/nintendo-celebrates-ds-wii-software-sales-milestones-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Across two of Nintendo's biggest markets, the US and Europe, the house that Mario built has managed to get a lot of its hardware and software into customers' hands, reporting huge sales milestones and a very prosperous December. In Europe, the DS is now the best-selling video game console of all time, surpassing the 40 million mark in the region. The Wii now tops 20 million, becoming the fastest-selling console in the region since its release three years ago. There's also some data on Nintendo's games to chew on, including Wii Sports Resort, which sold five million since releasing in July, and New Super Mario Bros. Wii, which just reached 2.5 million units sold.

As for the States, Nintendo's been raking in equally impressive amounts of cash here. In December, three million Wii consoles were purchased and the DS set "a new all-time calendar-year U.S. sales record for any console or hand-held system." You know, just like the company did last year. Also, New Super Mario Bros. Wii had quite the stellar showing in the U.S., achieving lifetime sales of four million units in the region.

In short: Nintendo is pretty much the same as always.

Source - Nintendo UK press release
Source - Nintendo of America press release

JoystiqNintendo celebrates DS, Wii, software sales milestones in Europe, U.S. originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSeuropeNew-Super-Mario-Bros-DSNew-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendoPlatformsalesWiiWii-Sportswii-sports-resortTue, 05 Jan 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo invites seniors to play New Super Mario Bros. Wii, Grandpa ragequits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/nintendo-invites-seniors-to-play-new-super-mario-bros-wii-gran/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/nintendo-invites-seniors-to-play-new-super-mario-bros-wii-gran/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/nintendo-invites-seniors-to-play-new-super-mario-bros-wii-gran/#comments The reality: Nintendo is holding a fluffy PR event for grandparents and their little, angelic grandchildren at the Fairwinds-Ivey Ranch in Oceanside, California, this week. The event takes place this Friday, December 4, from 11AM-1PM. It's likely to be a schmaltzy feel-good event, inclusive of the whole family and further pushing Nintendo's "pioneering efforts" to expand the video game market.

The fantasy: At the event, some little snot will get mad that grandma can't figure out which button is used to jump, eventually swiping the controller from her hand and making her watch helplessly as her Toad floats through the stage in a bubble. Meanwhile, grandpa joins in. He's figured out the location of the jump button, but does that weird old people thing of moving the controller upwards every time he gets the character to jump, thus his avatar spins wildly out of control, dying constantly. Having never put the Wiimote strap on, he accidentally flings the controller into the television in a fit of frustration. That would be glorious.

JoystiqNintendo invites seniors to play New Super Mario Bros. Wii, Grandpa ragequits originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>New-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendoPlatformTue, 01 Dec 2009 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon's New Super Mario Bros. Wii bundle adds Lunchable compatibility]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/amazons-new-super-mario-bros-wii-bundle-adds-lunchable-compati/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/amazons-new-super-mario-bros-wii-bundle-adds-lunchable-compati/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/amazons-new-super-mario-bros-wii-bundle-adds-lunchable-compati/#commentsNew Super Mario Bros. Wii couldn't possibly do anything more to remind us of the delight Mario games brought us in our youths, short of including a Mario lunchbox. Amazon is helping to ensure the full nostalgia experience by doing just that in a special bundle!

For $70, you get the game, a plastic lunchbox, a t-shirt (size L), and four Wiimote stickers. The t-shirt sizing suggests that this really is a nostalgia-focused gift set and not for people who are currently children. This, of course, means that these lunchboxes are destined for shelves and not cafeterias.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqAmazon's New Super Mario Bros. Wii bundle adds Lunchable compatibility originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lunchboxNew-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendoPlatformMon, 30 Nov 2009 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Mall Experience tour heads cross-country next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/nintendo-mall-experience-tour-heads-cross-country-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/nintendo-mall-experience-tour-heads-cross-country-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/nintendo-mall-experience-tour-heads-cross-country-next-week/#comments Nintendo must've had some luck with its Great Lakes and Wii Sports Resort tours recently, as the company has announced the Nintendo Mall Experience tour. Starting next week through December 20, The Big N will be stopping at shopping centers across the country to get some of its Wii and DS titles in the faces of holiday shoppers.

On the Wii side, Nintendo will show off its top three games for the holiday season: Wii Sports Resort, New Super Mario Bros. Wii and Wii Fit Plus. For the handheld crowd, Nintendo will be pushing the new Style Savvy, Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box and The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks. Head past the break for the full list of stops on Nintendo's Mall Experience tour.

Continue reading Nintendo Mall Experience tour heads cross-country next week

JoystiqNintendo Mall Experience tour heads cross-country next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>New-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendonintendo-mall-experiencePlatformprofessor-laytonprofessor-layton-and-the-diabolical-boxspirit-tracksstyle-savvythe-legend-of-zeldathe-legend-of-zelda-spirit-trackswii-sportswii-sports-resortWed, 18 Nov 2009 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: New Super Mario Bros. Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/review-new-super-mario-bros-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/review-new-super-mario-bros-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/review-new-super-mario-bros-wii/#comments New Super Mario Bros. Wii isn't a game for you to play by yourself. Sure, you could, but it's just not going to be the best way to extract all of the fun the experience has to offer. Instead, you really should try to corral some friends together for multiplayer, which is guaranteed to do one of two things: strengthen the bonds you and your three partners in platforming have established, or take those friendships you've worked so hard on over an indeterminate amount of time and stomp them like a lost, lonely Goomba.

Gallery: New Super Mario Bros. Wii

Continue reading Review: New Super Mario Bros. Wii

JoystiqReview: New Super Mario Bros. Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>New-Super-Mario-Bros-WiinintendoPlatformWiiFri, 13 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo takes the fun out of discovery with New Super Mario Bros. Wii tips video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/nintendo-takes-the-fun-out-of-discovery-with-new-super-mario-bro/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/nintendo-takes-the-fun-out-of-discovery-with-new-super-mario-bro/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/12/nintendo-takes-the-fun-out-of-discovery-with-new-super-mario-bro/#commentsRemember all those secret areas and level-skipping tactics from way back when you first played Super Mario Bros. on NES? Back before you could watch videos created by Nintendo showing off those very same tricks passed from friend to friend by word of mouth - before the internet was even a gleam in Al Gore's eye!

Though our old, embittered brains remember those days fondly, you kids today with your shiny electronics and worldwide exchange of information get the not-so-secret tips straight from the horse's mouth (in sorta high-resolution, no less) on New Super Mario Bros. Wii. After watching the video you see above, we came to a scary realization: there are people out there who might not have any 2D Mario strategies already embedded in their brains. Folks, if you don't have any sort of tactic worked out for red coin collection, we're not sure this video can help you. Or if anyone can, for that matter.

Thankfully, we have a much cooler video after the break.

Gallery: New Super Mario Bros. Wii

Continue reading Nintendo takes the fun out of discovery with New Super Mario Bros. Wii tips video

JoystiqNintendo takes the fun out of discovery with New Super Mario Bros. Wii tips video originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-brosNew-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendoPlatformred-coinstipsvideoWiiThu, 12 Nov 2009 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ghosts 'n Goblins now punishing iPhone players]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/ghosts-n-goblins-now-punishing-iphone-players/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/ghosts-n-goblins-now-punishing-iphone-players/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/ghosts-n-goblins-now-punishing-iphone-players/#commentsCapcom has released a new Ghosts 'n Goblins game to, of all places, the iPhone. Ghosts 'n Goblins: Gold Knights features polygonal graphics like the PSP's Ultimate Ghosts 'n Goblins, and, for the first time, two playable characters: Arthur and new hero Lancelot, who each have different weapons and lifebars.

We're going to assume that the difficulty of the series is tuned for iPhone play: Ghosts 'n Goblins games tend to be nightmarish in difficulty even with real d-pads and buttons, and porting that experience directly to the iPhone could only lead to tears. The lifebar from the PSP game will help, but even so we expect Arthur to spend most of the game in his boxers, as usual.

One aspect that is definitely tuned to the iPhone: paid DLC. For 99 cents a pop, you can power up Arthur or Lancelot, get unlimited lives or unlimited access to magic, or even reduce the strength of enemies and eliminate magicians from the game.

If you're feeling brave enough to take on the armies of Satan with just a touchscreen, Capcom is offering the game for $2.99 -- a discount of $2 -- until November 23.

Ghosts 'n Goblins: Gold Knights ($2.99): GHOSTS'N GOBLINS GOLD KNIGHTS

Gallery: Ghosts 'n Goblins: Gold Knights (iPhone)

JoystiqGhosts 'n Goblins now punishing iPhone players originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Applecapcomdlcghosts-n-goblinsghosts-n-goblins-gold-knightsiPodplatformplatformerWed, 11 Nov 2009 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[New Super Mario Bros Wii launch event in NYC this Saturday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/10/new-super-mario-bros-wii-launch-event-in-nyc-this-saturday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/10/new-super-mario-bros-wii-launch-event-in-nyc-this-saturday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/10/new-super-mario-bros-wii-launch-event-in-nyc-this-saturday/#comments Nintendo is holding a little family-friendly launch fiesta for New Super Marios Bros. Wii this Saturday, November 14, at its flagship store in New York City. The House of Mario will "transform" Rockefeller Plaza into the Mushroom Kingdom, providing demo stations, "costumed characters, trivia challenges, prize giveaways (while supplies last)."

The event takes place from 3-7PM and NSMBW is available to purchase early from the Nintendo World Store during that time. The game officially launches the following day, November 15. If getting it a day early seems worth the trip, remember to add NYC's lovely (8.875%) sales tax to your budget.

JoystiqNew Super Mario Bros Wii launch event in NYC this Saturday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>launch-eventNew-Super-Mario-Bros-Wiinew-york-cityNintendonycPlatformTue, 10 Nov 2009 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[This Week on the Nintendo Channel: It's a New Super Mario Bros. world]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-its-a-new-super-mario-bros/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-its-a-new-super-mario-bros/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-its-a-new-super-mario-bros/#comments Nintendo has unloaded a pair of TV spots for upcoming New Super Mario Bros. Wii and they're pretty slick. Each features a foursome of gamers playing the new Nintendo title while surrounded in what seems to be a convergence of the Mushroom Kingdom and reality -- not unlike the plot of the horrible 1993 film. Unlike that movie, however, these ads are entirely watchable.

But, before you boot up your Wii and check 'em out for yourself, head past the break to see the rest of this week's Nintendo Channel content.

Continue reading This Week on the Nintendo Channel: It's a New Super Mario Bros. world

JoystiqThis Week on the Nintendo Channel: It's a New Super Mario Bros. world originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>New-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendonintendo-channelPlatformMon, 09 Nov 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[This Week on the Nintendo Channel: Hangin' with Mr. Miyamoto]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-hangin-with-mr-miyamoto/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-hangin-with-mr-miyamoto/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-hangin-with-mr-miyamoto/#comments This week's Nintendo Channel highlight is obviously the play session of New Super Mario Bros. with Nintendo Week hosts Gary and Alison, along with Nintendo's Bill Trinen and gaming icon Shigeru Miyamoto -- a video which even has a brief look at Excitebike World Rally. It's not that there's anything terribly exciting or new in this video, but, well ... we just love New Super Mario Bros.! Is that such a bad thing?

Oh, and by the way, Shiggy is totally a tweaker.

Continue reading This Week on the Nintendo Channel: Hangin' with Mr. Miyamoto

JoystiqThis Week on the Nintendo Channel: Hangin' with Mr. Miyamoto originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>New-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendonintendo-channelPlatformMon, 02 Nov 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New, super character art from New Super Mario Bros. Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/new-super-character-art-from-new-super-mario-bros-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/new-super-character-art-from-new-super-mario-bros-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/new-super-character-art-from-new-super-mario-bros-wii/#commentsThe new multiplayer mode in New Super Mario Bros. Wii is great, as is the apparent difficulty of the new levels. We're curious about the Super Guide feature as well. But for some Mario fans, the real draw to the latest sidescroller can be seen above: the Koopalings, returning for the first time in a traditional Mario game since Super Mario World. While, of course, we'd still prefer a 2D adventure, Iggy, Morton, et al. have made the transition to 3D quite well!

Nintendo released that render along with some other character and enemy art, and an image of the bizarre all-red box art. See what a Goomba looks like now in our gallery. Spoiler: pretty much like it always looks.

Gallery: New Super Mario Bros. Wii character art

JoystiqNew, super character art from New Super Mario Bros. Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>koopalingsNew-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendoPlatformMon, 26 Oct 2009 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New Super Mario Bros. Wii is 'pretty difficult']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/new-super-mario-bros-wii-is-pretty-difficult/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/new-super-mario-bros-wii-is-pretty-difficult/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/new-super-mario-bros-wii-is-pretty-difficult/#commentsFiled under: , ,

New Super Mario Bros. Wii is "pretty difficult," series creator Shigeru Miyamoto told us at a NYC press demo yesterday, acknowledging complaints that the previous 2D iteration of the franchise was too easy. After our disastrous performance in last week's hands-on, we'd agree with that assessment.

While "Demo Play" makes concessions towards novice players, NSMBW celebrates hardcore gameplay. By earning the super coins hidden through each level, you'll be able to unlock a series of "Super Guide" videos that highlight "super skills" tactics. These videos will reveal how to get infinite 1-ups, find the secret goals and show alternate ways of playing the game. (One video we saw showed three Yoshis working in tandem to lick and spit a hapless Luigi throughout the level.)

The newly released video above highlights some of the various stages in NSMBW. Does it look "difficult" to you? You can also check out North America's all-red packaging after the break.

Gallery: New Super Mario Bros. Wii

Continue reading New Super Mario Bros. Wii is 'pretty difficult'

JoystiqNew Super Mario Bros. Wii is 'pretty difficult' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>miyamotoNew-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendoPlatformshigeru-miyamotoWiiFri, 16 Oct 2009 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[UK retailer offering Limited Tin Edition of New Super Mario Bros. Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/uk-retailer-offering-limited-tin-edition-of-new-super-mario-bros/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/uk-retailer-offering-limited-tin-edition-of-new-super-mario-bros/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/uk-retailer-offering-limited-tin-edition-of-new-super-mario-bros/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've all heard the complaint, and most of us have thought it ourselves: New Super Mario Bros. Wii looks great, and we appreciate the new multiplayer focus and all, but you just can't easily use the box as a coin bank. And that's a shame.

Well, there ain't no shame in UK retailer GAME, who is taking preorders on a Limited Tin Edition of the game. The Tin Edition comes in a rather fetching tin case, with a slot at the top that makes it suitable for use as a bank. It'll be out in Europe on the same November 20 date as the normal edition, for 49.99. The regular, non-tin version is currently on the site for 34.99.

JoystiqUK retailer offering Limited Tin Edition of New Super Mario Bros. Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europegamelimited-editionNew-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendoPlatformukWiiThu, 15 Oct 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto expects sustained sales for New Super Mario Bros. Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/miyamoto-expects-sustained-sales-for-new-super-mario-bros-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/miyamoto-expects-sustained-sales-for-new-super-mario-bros-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/miyamoto-expects-sustained-sales-for-new-super-mario-bros-wii/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nintendo's resident gaming legend, Shigeru Miyamoto, foresees long-term -- nay, long-tail -- sales for New Super Mario Bros. Wii, a prospect that isn't completely insane when you take a few things into account:
  • The game has Mario in it.
  • Its DS counterpart is the second highest-selling DS game of all time and has sold consistently since its release in 2006.
  • It's super fun.
So, when Miyamoto says that the game "will continue selling even after one year has passed" during a play session in Japan (translation), we have a tough time arguing with the guy. Any sane person would, right?

[Via andriasang]

JoystiqMiyamoto expects sustained sales for New Super Mario Bros. Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanmiyamotoNew-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendoPlatformshigeru-miyamotoshiggyWiiMon, 12 Oct 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo describes 'Demo Play' option in New Super Mario Bros. Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/nintendo-describes-demo-play-option-in-new-super-mario-bros-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/nintendo-describes-demo-play-option-in-new-super-mario-bros-w/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/nintendo-describes-demo-play-option-in-new-super-mario-bros-w/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nintendo's finally dropped the curtain on Miyamoto's "Demo Play" idea for upcoming New Super Mario Bros. Wii and it turns out the option is less of a handholding through the entire game and more of an instructional tool on overcoming those tough spots.

Nintendo of Europe updated its site, saying that while watching the demonstration go down in real time, the player can choose to intervene whenever they wish and take control themselves. We can't imagine the need for this system much in NSMBW, though. We're sure the game tape can be solved through a combination of running, jumping and, uh, running and jumping.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqNintendo describes 'Demo Play' option in New Super Mario Bros. Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demo-playnew-super-mario-bros-wiiNintendoPlatformWiiFri, 02 Oct 2009 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[New Super Mario Wii, Zelda: Spirit Tracks & others dated for Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/new-super-mario-wii-zelda-spirit-tracks-and-others-dated-for-eur/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/new-super-mario-wii-zelda-spirit-tracks-and-others-dated-for-eur/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/new-super-mario-wii-zelda-spirit-tracks-and-others-dated-for-eur/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Arguably the two biggest titles set to release on their respective platforms this year, New Super Mario Bros. Wii and The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks have both been dated by Nintendo of Europe. NSMBW is set to invade living rooms on November 20, while Spirit Tracks will be pulling into the station on December 11. But that's not all, as Nintendo has also dated Wii Fit Plus for October 30 and plans to cater to your inner fashionista with Nintendo Presents Style Boutique on October 23.

Nintendo of America previously confirmed NSMBW for November 15 and Zelda for December 7; and Wii Fit Plus releases ... this Sunday! Time to sculpt that perfect figure again.

JoystiqNew Super Mario Wii, Zelda: Spirit Tracks & others dated for Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSeuropelegend-of-zeldaNew-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendopalPlatformrelease-daterelease-datesspirit-tracksstyle-savvythe-legend-of-zelda-spirit-tracksWiiwii-fitwii-fit-plusThu, 01 Oct 2009 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[WireWay pops up again]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/19/wireway-pops-up-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/19/wireway-pops-up-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/19/wireway-pops-up-again/#comments Konami's WireWay, an action game about bouncing a little alien around on wires, is flying dangerously under the radar, but we refuse to let it go ignored! Mostly because we are always interested in DS games with unique mechanics -- this one involves using wires placed around the stage as slingshots to move protagonist Wiley higher and higher in pursuit of star items.

But also because this trailer Konami made for the game is too infectiously upbeat not to share. Bounce into our gallery for new screens!

Gallery: WireWay (GamesCom 2009)

wireway-image0002wireway-image0006wireway-image0008wireway-image0015wireway-image0020

JoystiqWireWay pops up again originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actiongamescom-2009konamiplatformwirewayWed, 19 Aug 2009 16:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Hudson sheds light on new Wii platformer, Shadow Tower]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/hudson-sheds-light-on-new-wii-platformer-shadow-tower/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/hudson-sheds-light-on-new-wii-platformer-shadow-tower/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/hudson-sheds-light-on-new-wii-platformer-shadow-tower/#commentsAn article in the latest Famitsu magazine, summarized by 1UP, reveals a new Wii game from Hudson Soft. Shadow Tower doesn't seem to have anything to do with the From Software PlayStation RPG of the same name, instead appearing to be a platformer in which players control the shadow of an otherwise invisible boy.

As he travels through an abandoned landscape and climbs up the tower featured in the name, the silhouetted character actually travels on the shadows of platforms and structures, interacting with shadow objects to trigger movement in their real counterparts. He is joined by a butterfly who can reach objects he can't -- 1UP offers the example of a light source that the butterfly changes to alter the shape of the shadow landscape and make a chasm navigable.

Pretty much everyone who sees this mentions the ICO-esque look, and we think that's an apt comparison. Given that we like the look of Team ICO games, and we like original platformers, we're going to be following this one.

[Image via Nintendo Everything]

JoystiqHudson sheds light on new Wii platformer, Shadow Tower originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hudsonNintendoplatformshadow-towerWiiWed, 05 Aug 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Scribblenauts: one level, many solutions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/scribblenauts-one-level-many-solutions/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/scribblenauts-one-level-many-solutions/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/20/scribblenauts-one-level-many-solutions/#commentsThis is exactly the kind of thing we wanted to see with Scribblenauts: the same puzzle attempted multiple times, each using different means. A series of videos on Nintendo Raw shows one of the game's puzzles, in which the player is dangled from a rope next to a caged Starite, also suspended, using different items.

After the break, we've embedded our favorite take on the puzzle, which earns that distinction for its use of a moustache as a problem-solving item -- wearing it causes the hat to which the rope is suspended to come off. Check Nintendo Raw to see several more attempts, some more successful than others.

Continue reading Scribblenauts: one level, many solutions

JoystiqScribblenauts: one level, many solutions originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5th-celladventureplatformscribblenautswarner-bros-interactiveMon, 20 Jul 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Shorts DS game draws our attention]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/15/the-shorts-ds-game-draws-our-attention/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/15/the-shorts-ds-game-draws-our-attention/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/15/the-shorts-ds-game-draws-our-attention/#commentsNormally, a DS game based on a kids' movie wouldn't attract our notice -- they're as common as rocks, and tend to be less fun to play with. But the DS game based on Robert Rodriguez's Shorts, a movie about a neighborhood of kids who find some kind of wish-granting rock, appropriates one of our favorite new trends in side-scrolling games: drawing platforms.

Kirby Canvas Curse started it, but in the last year there has been an explosion of games that mix traditional platforming with user-created platforms. The Chase: Felix Meets Felicity did it, and the upcoming Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter, MarkerMan Adventures (also published by Shorts publisher Majesco), and, outside of the DS, Crayon Physics, Drawn to Life on Wii, Max and the Magic Marker on WiiWare, and Trine allow players to make platforms by drawing shapes.

And, as it turns out, we are extremely receptive to this idea, even when it is in a game in which you control a character named Loogie. See the trailer after the break.

Continue reading The Shorts DS game draws our attention

JoystiqThe Shorts DS game draws our attention originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>majescoplatformplatformingshortsWed, 15 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Scribblenauts could come to other platforms]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/10/scribblenauts-could-come-to-other-platforms/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/10/scribblenauts-could-come-to-other-platforms/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/10/scribblenauts-could-come-to-other-platforms/#comments It's a scientific fact that 100 percent of people on Earth love Scribblenauts -- trust us, an actual scientist said that -- unfortunately, not everyone owns a Nintendo DS. Sure, almost everyone owns a DS, but that still leaves a small sliver of humanity who will be unable to experience 5th Cell's wordy puzzler whenever it hits store shelves this September.

Fortunately for this minuscule contingency, there's a chance Scribblenauts could be released on other platforms. In a recent interview with VG247, the game's technical director, Marius Fahlbusch, explained, "We never limited ourselves to the DS as platform in our heads and we'll see what the future holds." Personally, we think it would be a hit on any platform, whether that platform be Xbox 360, PS3 or coloring book.

JoystiqScribblenauts could come to other platforms originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5th-cellDSmarius-fahlbuschNintendoplatformPuzzlescribblenautsWarner-Bros-Interactive-EntertainmentWBIEFri, 10 Jul 2009 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Price is Right goes gaming, gives away DSi pack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/14/the-price-is-right-goes-gaming-gives-away-dsi-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/14/the-price-is-right-goes-gaming-gives-away-dsi-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/14/the-price-is-right-goes-gaming-gives-away-dsi-pack/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It seems as though every day there's more mainstream saturation for Nintendo products. Why just the other day, we spotted Drew Carey offering a decently tasty Nintendo DSi bundle during the "Showcase Showdown" portion of his (well, not really his) gameshow, The Price is Right -- should the contestants guess the right price, of course.

Though titles like Lord of the Rings: Conquest and, unsurprisingly, The Price is Right game were among those offered, DS staples like New Super Mario Bros. and Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword also made their way into the fray. We know, we know, the question on all your minds is of course: Did the contestant win? You'll have to see yourself over at the CBS website, folks!

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqThe Price is Right goes gaming, gives away DSi pack originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 14 Jun 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drew-careyDSgonintendolord-of-the-rings-conquestNew-Super-Mario-Bros-DSNintendonintendo-dsiPlatformSun, 14 Jun 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Skateboarding god versus Cthulhu in Scribblenauts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/skateboarding-god-versus-cthulhu-in-scribblenauts/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/skateboarding-god-versus-cthulhu-in-scribblenauts/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/11/skateboarding-god-versus-cthulhu-in-scribblenauts/#commentsWe don't know which god the "god" in Scribblenauts represents -- in our eyes, he's vaguely Zeus-esque. But we do know, thanks to this demo given to IGN by 5TH Cell's Jeremiah Slaczka, what would happen if this god got into a fight with Cthulhu. While on a skateboard. And holding a shotgun.

We also learn what happens when a villain sees a full moon: he transforms into a werewolf. Obviously. It's worth noting that none of these things helped get the Starite out of a tree, which was the actual objective of the level. That's going to be the biggest challenge in Scribblenauts: actually playing instead of just screwing around.

Continue reading Skateboarding god versus Cthulhu in Scribblenauts

JoystiqSkateboarding god versus Cthulhu in Scribblenauts originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Jun 2009 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5th-celladventureplatformscribblenautswarner-bros-interactiveThu, 11 Jun 2009 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter (DS)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/hands-on-drawn-to-life-the-next-chapter-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/hands-on-drawn-to-life-the-next-chapter-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/09/hands-on-drawn-to-life-the-next-chapter-ds/#comments5TH Cell received a lot of attention at E3 for its DS platform adventure Scribblenauts, but that wasn't the only DS game 5TH Cell brought to the show. THQ had a demo station set up running the DS sequel to the company's first DS hit, Drawn to Life. Planet Moon's (different) Wii version of Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter was also on display, but we were unable to spend any time with it.

Gallery: Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter (DS)

Continue reading Hands-on: Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter (DS)

JoystiqHands-on: Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter (DS) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5th-celldrawn-to-lifedrawn-to-life-the-next-chapterDSe3-2009NintendoplatformthqTue, 09 Jun 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: New Super Mario Bros. Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/hands-on-new-super-mario-bros-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/hands-on-new-super-mario-bros-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/hands-on-new-super-mario-bros-wii/#commentsAhh that old familiar feeling. It's been a few years since we played New Super Mario Bros. for the Nintendo DS -- and yes, we loved it with all of our bitter, embattled hearts. Three years later and the Nintendo Wii's sorta sequel of the DS hit is set to release this holiday. We did, however, get to put our dirty mitts on the game on the show floor at E3 (with three other folks in tow, to test out the four player co-op).

While the chaotic nature of the gameplay was a bit off-putting at first, we quickly found ourselves wall-jumping to one of our partners' heads, bouncing along to stomp goombas (among other nasty beasts). Truth be told, the controls for New Super Mario Bros. Wii are akin to riding a bike. We were instructed to hold the Wiimote sideways, a la the classic NES controller, and instantly pushed in the one button and held it, as to focus little Toad (our character) on speed.

Continue reading Hands-on: New Super Mario Bros. Wii

JoystiqHands-on: New Super Mario Bros. Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009New-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendoPlatformWiiThu, 04 Jun 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA wants to 'take some risks' on Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/ea-wants-to-take-some-risks-on-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/ea-wants-to-take-some-risks-on-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/ea-wants-to-take-some-risks-on-wii/#comments
According to EA's Joe Booth, plans for the Nintendo Wii are "long-term" at EA, as the company tries to strike a good balance of titles for the popular platform in 2009. In an interview with the Official Nintendo Magazine, the senior producer for Electronic Arts' Nintendo group said the company wants to "take some risks" with Nintendo's home console.

"The industry has woken up to the Wii," Booth told the mag. In his own estimation, Booth -- who is overseeing Need for Speed Nitro for Wii -- feels the Wii has a lot of "new energy," which drives his group's passion. Perhaps Nintendo's energy stems from sailing high above the competition in hardware sales.

Electronic Arts has a slew of Wii exclusive software planned for 2009, including EA Sports Active and Dead Space: Extraction, along with special Wii versions of its annual sports franchises.

[Via Edge]

JoystiqEA wants to 'take some risks' on Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 May 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseaelectronic-artsneed-for-speed-nitronintendoplatformrisksWiiThu, 21 May 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Icarian: Kindred Spirits trailer flies high]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/icarian-kindred-spirits-trailer-flies-high/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/icarian-kindred-spirits-trailer-flies-high/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/icarian-kindred-spirits-trailer-flies-high/#commentsDespite flying under the radar (but also presumably too close to the sun), Icarian: Kindred Spirits looks totally great. Developer Over the Top Games sent us this new trailer, featuring pretty locations (especially for WiiWare) and promising gameplay.

Icarian is a motion-controlled sidescrolling platformer about Nyx, "an enigmatic winged girl, that must descend from heaven in search of her missing friend Icarus." Along the way, she picks up abilities from the Olympian gods that allow her to fight enemies and solve environmental puzzles. There's no official release date (of course, it's WiiWare), but it should be out in Europe before the end of this summer.

JoystiqIcarian: Kindred Spirits trailer flies high originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>icarianover-the-top-gamesplatformwiiwareWed, 22 Apr 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Proof that Starfy in English is really happening]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/proof-that-starfy-in-english-is-really-happening/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/proof-that-starfy-in-english-is-really-happening/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/proof-that-starfy-in-english-is-really-happening/#commentsWe still can't believe that Nintendo has actually decided to grace us with a Starfy game -- in the same year that we're given a Rhythm Tengoku game. Why didn't we ever see the previous games? It's not like Nintendo of America didn't trust TOSE to create a good platform game. What's next, Kuru Kuru Kururin?

Whatever the reasoning, it appears that Nintendo is finally going to give us a Starfy game for reals. Look at those screens! Localization is happening! The Legendary Starfy is launching in North America on June 8. Head into our gallery if you feel prepared for five points of cuteness.

Gallery: The Legendary Starfy


[Via IGN]

JoystiqProof that Starfy in English is really happening originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>densetsu-no-stafiplatformstarfythe-legendary-starfytoseMon, 13 Apr 2009 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Marker Man Adventures draws near]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/marker-man-adventures-draws-near/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/marker-man-adventures-draws-near/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/10/marker-man-adventures-draws-near/#commentsIt's been a long time since we heard anything about Glyphic Entertainment's DS platformer Marker Man Adventures, which combines character action with Crayon Physics (or more appropriately, Pocket Physics)-like environmental interaction, in the form of drawing shapes on the screen that turn into platforms.

Since we last saw it, the Majesco-published Marker Man has undergone a bit of a makeover, with a colorful upper-screen display (featuring a nonchalant sun watching a line-art dog peeing, for some reason). It's still (intentionally) sparse on the bottom, of course. Marker Man has also been granted a new release date: June 2009. We're kind of suckers for DS platformers about drawing, so we're interested in seeing more of this one.

Gallery: MarkerMan Adventures

JoystiqMarker Man Adventures draws near originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Mar 2009 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>glyphic-entertainmentmajescomarker-man-adventuresmarkermanplatformpuzzleTue, 10 Mar 2009 15:15:00 EST