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 2015 AOL, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Smash Bros. creator Sakurai also has trouble tracking down amiibo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/smash-bros-creator-sakurai-also-has-trouble-tracking-down-amiib/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/smash-bros-creator-sakurai-also-has-trouble-tracking-down-amiib/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/smash-bros-creator-sakurai-also-has-trouble-tracking-down-amiib/#comments If you've been unsuccessful in finding an amiibo of your favorite Super Smash Bros. character, you're not alone. Series creator Masahiro Sakurai recently vented similar frustrations on Twitter, noting that he went home empty-handed when he hit up local retailers in Japan in the hopes of tracking down Meta Knight, Sheik, Lucario, and Rosalina & Luma.

Nintendo of America announced last year that it would phase out many amiibo after an initial print run, leading to shortages and price hikes on secondary markets like eBay and Amazon. The Lucario figure also remains elusive in the weeks leading up to its release in North America, with exclusive distributor Toys R Us recently raising confusion over whether customer pre-orders are still valid.

First-wave amiibo figures Wii Fit Trainer, Villager, and Marth have not yet seen a second print run in North America, leading Nintendo fans to import cheaper equivalent figures from Japan. Amazon additionally sold out of its initial allotment of Sonic the Hedgehog figurines after opening pre-orders last week, hinting at another impending post-launch shortage.

JoystiqSmash Bros. creator Sakurai also has trouble tracking down amiibo originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsamiibonintendosuper-smash-bros-2014super-smash-bros-for-wii-uwii-uMon, 26 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Weekly: New 3DS XL, The Talos Principle review, no more review scores and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/18/joystiq-weekly-new-3ds-xl-the-talos-principle-review-no-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/18/joystiq-weekly-new-3ds-xl-the-talos-principle-review-no-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/18/joystiq-weekly-new-3ds-xl-the-talos-principle-review-no-more/#commentsWelcome to Joystiq Weekly, a "too long; didn't read" of each week's biggest stories, reviews and original content. Each category's top story is introduced with a reactionary gif, because moving pictures aren't just for The Daily Prophet.
This was a busy week, but our decision to drop numerical review scores is probably what will have the longest-lasting effect on Joystiq. While not everyone has expressed support of the decision, we immensely appreciate the effort and thought many have put into discussing the topic with us. We hope our transition into using "In Other Words" text summaries and the new Joystiq Excellence Award will be more effective at conveying our stances and better at helping you find games that you'd actually enjoy.

Even if you're indifferent about the discussion of reviews though, plenty happened this week beyond our shift in examining games. The New 3DS XL will reach us next month, Xbox One consoles slipped back to their $350 holiday price, The Talos Principle surprised us with its depth, and 3D After Burner 2 transcended the fabled "arcade-perfect" status of arcade ports. All those stories and more are waiting for you after the break!

Continue reading Joystiq Weekly: New 3DS XL, The Talos Principle review, no more review scores and more

JoystiqJoystiq Weekly: New 3DS XL, The Talos Principle review, no more review scores and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 18 Jan 2015 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d-after-burner-2amiibocode-name-steamdestinyevolvegrand-theft-auto-5joystiq-weeklynew-3ds-xlnpdoff-the-gridrock-bandthe-legend-of-zelda-majoras-mask-3dthe-talos-principletwitchxbox-oneXCOM-The-Board-GameSun, 18 Jan 2015 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo: Amiibo sales outpace Smash Bros. Wii U]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/nintendo-amiibo-sales-outpace-smash-bros-wii-u/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/nintendo-amiibo-sales-outpace-smash-bros-wii-u/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/nintendo-amiibo-sales-outpace-smash-bros-wii-u/#comments Mario Kart 8 sold 1.7 million copies in 2014 both digitally and at retail in the United States according to the NPD Group, Nintendo revealed in a press release. The publisher also noted that Super Smash Bros. for Wii U sold 1.3 million copies during the year, though sales of the company's amiibo figurines were "nearly twice" that of Nintendo's Mario brawler on Wii U. Nintendo said that total hardware and software sales increased "by more than 29 percent and more than 75 percent, respectively, over sales in 2013." As of December, the publisher said that amiibo sales were "approximately equal" to that of Super Smash Bros. for Wii U.

On the handheld side of Nintendo's lineup, Super Smash Bros. for 3DS eclipsed 2 million copies sold since the game launched this past fall. Pokemon Alpha Sapphire and Omega Ruby also combined to sell 2.6 million copies in the remastered games' first six weeks. Nintendo recently offered a worldwide launch date for the company's new 3DS system during this week's Nintendo Direct presentation; the C-Stick-sporting console will arrive on February 13 for $200. The improved console will be accompanied by The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D and Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate along with each game's respective special edition 3DS systems.
[Image: Nintendo]

Continue reading Nintendo: Amiibo sales outpace Smash Bros. Wii U

JoystiqNintendo: Amiibo sales outpace Smash Bros. Wii U originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jan 2015 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsamiibomario-kart-8nintendopokemon-alpha-sapphire-omega-rubysalessuper-smash-brossuper-smash-bros-2014super-smash-bros-3dssuper-smash-bros-for-wii-utoyswii-uFri, 16 Jan 2015 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Barring Smash, Code Name: STEAM gets the best Amiibo support so far]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/barring-smash-code-name-steam-gets-the-best-amiibo-support-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/barring-smash-code-name-steam-gets-the-best-amiibo-support-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/15/barring-smash-code-name-steam-gets-the-best-amiibo-support-so/#comments
Outside of Super Smash Bros, the physical incarnations of Mario, Pikachu and other Nintendo icons don't have much to do on their plastic pedestals. While they transform into teachable, collectible opponents in Nintendo's flagship brawler, tapping an Amiibo toy into Mario Kart 8 or Hyrule Warriors is a one-step process to unlock a minor in-game item.

Nintendo has created a more substantial cameo - bordering on reverent - for the Amiibo line in Code Name: S.T.E.A.M, the oddball 3DS strategy game from developer Intelligent Systems. If you happen to own a Fire Emblem Amiibo and tap it in, warriors Marth, Ike, Robin and Lucina are summoned into Code Name's steam-powered war against aliens. They each have unique attacks, animations and can be an integral part of your strategy.

Continue reading Barring Smash, Code Name: STEAM gets the best Amiibo support so far

JoystiqBarring Smash, Code Name: STEAM gets the best Amiibo support so far originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jan 2015 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsamiibocode-name-steamfire-emblemikeintelligent-systemslucinamarthnew-3ds-xlnintendorobinThu, 15 Jan 2015 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Party 10 throws an amiibo get-together on March 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/mario-party-10-throws-an-amiibo-get-together-on-march-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/mario-party-10-throws-an-amiibo-get-together-on-march-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/mario-party-10-throws-an-amiibo-get-together-on-march-20/#comments
Mario Party 10 will launch on March 20, Nintendo revealed today. The publisher showed off the new "amiibo Party Mode" for the game during its Nintendo Direct presentation this morning, adding compatibility for Super Smash Bros. and Super Mario series figures. Nintendo noted that the mode requires at least one amiibo, though other players can link their own figures to the game to use their respective characters as game pieces and access game boards inspired by the characters.

Nintendo also announced that a limited edition version of Mario Party 10 will arrive on Wii U that same day, packing in a Mario amiibo figure with the party game. The game's latest trailer shows off both the amiibo Party Mode and the game's Bowser Party mode.
[Image: Nintendo]

Continue reading Mario Party 10 throws an amiibo get-together on March 20

JoystiqMario Party 10 throws an amiibo get-together on March 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibobundlegameplay-trailermario-partymario-party-10mini-game-collectionmini-gamesnintendonintendo-directnintendo-direct-january-2015party-gamerelease-datescreenshotstrailervideowii-uWed, 14 Jan 2015 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kirby and the Rainbow Curse slides to February 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/kirby-and-the-rainbow-curse-slides-to-february-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/kirby-and-the-rainbow-curse-slides-to-february-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/kirby-and-the-rainbow-curse-slides-to-february-20/#comments
Kirby and the Rainbow Curse will launch on February 20, Nintendo confirmed today. The latest in the platforming series was previously expected to launch on February 13. Additionally, the publisher offered a new gameplay trailer for Kirby and the Rainbow Curse, seen above. Nintendo first unveiled the game during its E3 2014 Nintendo Direct presentation.

In it, players trace colorful lines on the Game Pad to guide Kirby and transform the fluffy pink character into a tank, submarine and rocket. Kirby and the Rainbow Curse will receive amiibo support, as Nintendo revealed in December. Players that link up a Kirby, King Dedede or Meta Knight amiibo with the Wii U game will unlock special powers for Kirby.
[Image: Nintendo]

JoystiqKirby and the Rainbow Curse slides to February 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jan 2015 10:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibodelaygameplay-trailerkirbykirby-and-the-rainbow-cursenintendonintendo-directnintendo-direct-january-2015release-datetrailervideowii-uWed, 14 Jan 2015 10:43:00 EST<![CDATA[New amiibo announced, coming March 2015 [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/new-amiibo-announced-coming-march-2015/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/new-amiibo-announced-coming-march-2015/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/new-amiibo-announced-coming-march-2015/#comments Nintendo has revealed a new wave of amiibo figures due on store shelves on March 20. The new amiibo were revealed during today's Nintendo Direct, and feature a redesigned Mario, Peach, Luigi, Yoshi and Bowser, as well as a Toad amiibo. You can see the new amiibo above.

Redesigns aren't the only new amiibo on their way, though. Nintendo also revealed amiibo of Robin, Lucina, Pac-Man, Ness, Charizard and Wario. These characters will be available sometime this spring. Nintendo also noted that amiibo will be used to unlock game boards and game pieces in Mario Party 10, the publisher's latest party game for Wii U.

Update: Check out the galleries below for a closer look at the new amiibo figures slated to arrive in the coming months. Additionally, the Robin, Lucina, Pac-Man, Ness, Charizard and Wario figures will launch this spring; we've updated the post to reflect this information.
[Image: Nintendo]

Continue reading New amiibo announced, coming March 2015 [Update]

JoystiqNew amiibo announced, coming March 2015 [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jan 2015 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsamiibonintendonintendo-directwii-uWed, 14 Jan 2015 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Duck Hunt amiibo data on Super Smash Bros. disc]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/03/rumor-duck-hunt-amiibo-data-on-super-smash-bros-disc/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/03/rumor-duck-hunt-amiibo-data-on-super-smash-bros-disc/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/03/rumor-duck-hunt-amiibo-data-on-super-smash-bros-disc/#comments

Just because an amiibo figure for the dog-and-duck duo from Duck Hunt hasn't yet been officially announced doesn't mean one isn't coming. That's what a video from YouTube user "Mema Haxx" posted earlier this week would suggest, anyway. As short as it is mysterious, the video shows a player of Super Smash Bros. for Wii U heading to the amiibo options menu and pulling up "Duck Hunt Duo," which is how the characters are labeled in the European version of the game.

There's no description for the video, so it's hard to tell just what we're seeing. One explanation is that Haxx triggered code within the game that made it think it had just interacted with an NFC chip inside of a Duck Hunt amiibo. Another is that it's totally fake. Without an official announcement of a Duck Hunt amiibo from Nintendo, there's no way to be 100 percent sure.

While we wait for such a reveal, why not speculate on what wondrous defects people will find on a Duck Hunt amiibo (and subsequently try to sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars)?
[Image: Nintendo]

JoystiqRumor: Duck Hunt amiibo data on Super Smash Bros. disc originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiiboduck-huntnintendorumorsuper-smash-bros-for-wii-uwii-uSat, 03 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Diddy Kong amiibo has no mouth, and he must scream]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/03/diddy-kong-amiibo-has-no-mouth-and-he-must-scream/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/03/diddy-kong-amiibo-has-no-mouth-and-he-must-scream/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/03/diddy-kong-amiibo-has-no-mouth-and-he-must-scream/#comments The craze for defective amiibo reached a fever pitch last month, when bids for a legless Princess Peach amiibo exceeded $25,000. Prior to that absurdly-pricey posting, bids on a Samus amiibo with two arm cannons closed at $2,500. Now however, the dust is settling, and defective amiibo no longer seem to fetch quadruple-digit or higher prices. Case in point: this jawless Diddy Kong amiibo, which closed out bidding at $471.99 Canadian (approx. $403.03 USD) earlier this week.

Diddy's high price now seems to be the exception rather than the rule, as a cursory glance through defective amiibo on eBay reveals far more inactive listings than active ones. (It also reveals a very liberal interpretation of the word "defect," as many of the so-called "defective" toys have simply come loose inside their packaging).

Of course, just because an item's auction has closed doesn't mean that a bidder will be true to their word - a deal's not done until money has exchanged hands. Still, this is fun reminder that one man's trash is another man's treasure.
[Image: Nintendo/bam_fan101]

JoystiqDiddy Kong amiibo has no mouth, and he must scream originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Jan 2015 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiiboauctiondiddy-kongebaynintendowii-uSat, 03 Jan 2015 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kirby and the Rainbow Curse trailer shows 4-player gameplay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/27/kirby-and-the-rainbow-curse-trailer-shows-4-player-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/27/kirby-and-the-rainbow-curse-trailer-shows-4-player-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/27/kirby-and-the-rainbow-curse-trailer-shows-4-player-gameplay/#comments

Nintendo recently shared a new trailer for Kirby and the Rainbow Curse, and while its voiceover is in Japanese, that doesn't stop anyone from enjoying its gameplay. The trailer grants a few examples of how players can use lines traced on the Wii U GamePad for things other than guiding Kirby, as well as glimpses of transformations like Tank, Rocket and Submarine Kirby. Multiplayer scenes are also shown, with Waddle Dee characters appearing to move freely and having the capability to carry Kirby through stages.

According to Serebii translator StreetsAhead, the above trailer also explains the extent of Kirby and the Rainbow Curse's amiibo support. StreetsAhead noted that Kirby amiibo allow players to use the star dash ability at any time, while Meta Knight amiibo dole out a character-themed mask and higher attack power. King Dedede amiibo also lend a mask, in addition to a more resilient health bar. StreetsAhead added that players will be able to use each amiibo once per day on one stage.

You can trace a trail from store shelves to your Wii U when Kirby and the Rainbow Curse launches on February 13.
[Image: Nintendo]

JoystiqKirby and the Rainbow Curse trailer shows 4-player gameplay originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 27 Dec 2014 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibokirbykirby-and-the-rainbow-cursenintendowii-uSat, 27 Dec 2014 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Toys R Us: Lucario amiibo pre-orders not being canceled]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/19/toys-r-us-lucario-amiibo-pre-orders-not-being-canceled/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/19/toys-r-us-lucario-amiibo-pre-orders-not-being-canceled/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/19/toys-r-us-lucario-amiibo-pre-orders-not-being-canceled/#comments Numerous Toys R Us customers received emails from the retailer this morning, seemingly canceling their pre-orders for the Lucario amiibo figure. As a Toys R Us spokesperson told Joystiq in a phone conversation today, the emails were part of a "technical issue," and pre-orders for the figure will not be canceled.

Toys R Us added via email, "we apologize for any inconvenience that may have been caused pertaining to customers' amiibo pre-orders. Please know that we are working on an email communication to all customers effected, which will provide instructions on how we plan to fulfill their order." The Lucario amiibo was revealed in November as a Toys R Us-exclusive figure, though the retailer's listing for the figure is currently missing from its storefront. Toys R Us was unable to offer specific inventory data for amiibo, but assured that the issue was unrelated to its supply of the figures.

Continue reading Toys R Us: Lucario amiibo pre-orders not being canceled

JoystiqToys R Us: Lucario amiibo pre-orders not being canceled originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Dec 2014 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibocanceledinventorylucarionintendopre-ordersuper-smash-bros-2014super-smash-bros-for-wii-utechnical-issuestoys-r-uswii-uFri, 19 Dec 2014 14:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Weekly: Final Fantasy 15, The Crew review, readers' favorite PS1 games and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/14/joystiq-weekly-final-fantasy-15-the-crew-review-readers-favo/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/14/joystiq-weekly-final-fantasy-15-the-crew-review-readers-favo/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/14/joystiq-weekly-final-fantasy-15-the-crew-review-readers-favo/#commentsWelcome to Joystiq Weekly, a "too long; didn't read" of each week's biggest stories, reviews and original content. Each category's top story is introduced with a reactionary gif, because moving pictures aren't just for The Daily Prophet.
The Final Fantasy series has had a fun couple of weeks lately, but between the PC version of Final Fantasy 7 coming to the PS4 and Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster's incoming port, most of its news is focused on the past. Leave it to the spring release of Final Fantasy Type-0 HD, a take on an old PSP game, to bring things into the present - those that grab a copy from Type-0's first run will get an exclusive demo of Final Fantasy 15.

So, Final Fantasy fans: Is it going to work? Are you going for Type-0 HD solely because of the demo, or do you kind of want to play the game anyway? Don't worry if it's the former - plenty of people only bought Crackdown to get into the Halo 3 beta before even realizing developer Realtime Worlds' superhero sandbox had its own merits.

Demos and ports weren't the only thing that happened this week - The internet seemingly frustrated Tekken series producer Katsuhiro Harada enough to keep a character out of the North American release, we reviewed The Crew and Never Alone, and we highlighted our readers' favorite PS1 games. Those stories and more are all waiting for you after the break!

Continue reading Joystiq Weekly: Final Fantasy 15, The Crew review, readers' favorite PS1 games and more

JoystiqJoystiq Weekly: Final Fantasy 15, The Crew review, readers' favorite PS1 games and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 14 Dec 2014 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiiboborderlandscall-of-duty-advanced-warfaredestinydoomfinal-fantasy-15final-fantasy-type-0-hdfinal-fantasy-x-x2-hd-remasterlara-croft-and-the-temple-of-osirisnever-aloneps1super-smash-bros-2014tekken-7the-crewthe-witcher-3-wild-hunttheatrhythm-dragon-questxbox-oneSun, 14 Dec 2014 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rosalina amiibo exclusive to the Target Galaxy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/14/rosalina-amiibo-exclusive-to-the-target-galaxy/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/14/rosalina-amiibo-exclusive-to-the-target-galaxy/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/14/rosalina-amiibo-exclusive-to-the-target-galaxy/#comments Lucario, Shulk and Meta Knight aren't the only amiibo figures to sign exclusivity deals with various retailers across the country; now Princess Rosalina and her Luma buddy (which are packaged together as one figure) will also take some extra effort to track down. According to an online listing, the figure - which is due for release in February - will be sold exclusively at Target.

Who knows how popular this particular amiibo will end up being or how many units Nintendo will ship, but if it's got your eye, it might behoove you to grab it while you can; Nintendo recently announced that, while the company may return select amiibo to shelves after their first run has sold out, "other [less popular] figures likely will not return to the market once they have sold through their initial shipment."
[Image: Nintendo]

JoystiqRosalina amiibo exclusive to the Target Galaxy originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 14 Dec 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsamiiboexclusivenintendotargettoyswii-uSun, 14 Dec 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bandai Namco on board with amiibo, One Piece gets Nintendo-themed costumes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/12/bandai-namco-on-board-with-amiibo-one-piece-gets-nintendo-theme/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/12/bandai-namco-on-board-with-amiibo-one-piece-gets-nintendo-theme/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/12/bandai-namco-on-board-with-amiibo-one-piece-gets-nintendo-theme/#comments Bandai Namco has signed on as the first third-party publisher to offer amiibo support with its recently launched Nintendo 3DS action game One Piece: Super Grand Battle X.

Nintendo Everything (via a Shonen Jump magazine magazine scan captured at Arlong Park Forums) reveals that Nintendo's figurines will unlock exclusive costumes within Bandai Namco's manga-based brawler as part of a forthcoming update. Series protagonist Luffy will wear Mario and Luigi costumes after players scan matching amiibo, while Sanji boasts an optional Fox McCloud outfit and Zoro can dress up as Link.

Amiibo support is enabled in 3DS games via the NFC-compatible New 3DS hardware revision or a standalone peripheral. North American releases for the New 3DS and One Piece: Super Grand Battle X have not been announced.

[Image: Bandai Namco]

JoystiqBandai Namco on board with amiibo, One Piece gets Nintendo-themed costumes originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsamiibobandai-namconew-3dsnfcnintendoone-piece-super-grand-battle-xFri, 12 Dec 2014 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo: Amiibo sales on par with Smash in the US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/12/nintendo-amiibo-sales-on-par-with-smash-in-the-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/12/nintendo-amiibo-sales-on-par-with-smash-in-the-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/12/nintendo-amiibo-sales-on-par-with-smash-in-the-us/#comments Nintendo's amiibo toys are selling 1 for 1 in the US with Super Smash Bros. Wii U, according to the publisher. In November, the console fighter sold "nearly 710,000" units going by NPD data, and Nintendo of America said amiibo sales are "approximately equal" to those of the game.

This week's seen Nintendo tiptoe around the subject of some amiibo not returning to market, but the company's kept firm on the most popular toys staying available. Nintendo of America reported the best-sellers to date are, in order, Link, Mario and Pikachu. Sorry, Wii Fit Trainer.

Continue reading Nintendo: Amiibo sales on par with Smash in the US

JoystiqNintendo: Amiibo sales on par with Smash in the US originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Dec 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsamiibonintendonorth-americanpdpokemon-alpha-sapphire-omega-rubysuper-smash-bros-2014super-smash-bros-for-wii-uUSwii-uFri, 12 Dec 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bidding tops $25,000 on Peach amiibo with missing legs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/bidding-tops-25-000-on-peach-amiibo-with-missing-legs/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/bidding-tops-25-000-on-peach-amiibo-with-missing-legs/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/bidding-tops-25-000-on-peach-amiibo-with-missing-legs/#comments The only thing Nintendo fans love more than the highly collectible amiibo are amiibo with massive factory defects. For proof, look no further than eBay, where a Peach amiibo with no legs recently attracted bids as high as $25,100.

Described as "factory sealed and in mint condition," the amiibo features the same flowing dress found on normal Peach figures, but in this apparently valuable defect, the princess of the Mushroom Kingdom appears to have misplaced her legs within all of that pink fabric. Despite the aesthetic oddity, this defect has no effect on the NFC chip that allows the amiibo to transfer data to and from Wii U games.

While all eBay auctions are suspect until money actually changes hands, this is not the first time an oddly constructed amiibo has drawn huge bids on the auction site. Earlier this month, we reported on the auction of a Samus amiibo equipped with an extra arm cannon that reached $2,500.
[Image: Nintendo/usmik_72rcplxb]

JoystiqBidding tops $25,000 on Peach amiibo with missing legs originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Dec 2014 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiiboamiibo-defectauctiondefect-amiiboebaynintendosuper-smash-bros-for-wii-uwii-uThu, 11 Dec 2014 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo issues further statement on Amiibo shortage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/nintendo-issues-further-statement-on-amiibo-shortage/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/nintendo-issues-further-statement-on-amiibo-shortage/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/nintendo-issues-further-statement-on-amiibo-shortage/#comments "Certain sold-out Amiibo may return" to store shelves at some point, according to a new Nintendo of America statement provided to Joystiq last night. That may offer hope to those hunting down the rarest toys, but it doesn't necessarily run counter to earlier statements indicating "other [less popular] figures likely will not return to the market once they have sold through their initial shipment."

Nintendo of America's full statement reads:
"Some Amiibo were very popular at launch, and it is possible that some Amiibo in the United States, Canada and Latin America may not be available right now due to high demand and our efforts to manage shelf space during the launch period. Certain sold-out Amiibo may return to these markets at a later stage. We are continually aiming to always have a regular supply of Amiibo in the marketplace and there are many waves of Amiibo to come."

Continue reading Nintendo issues further statement on Amiibo shortage

JoystiqNintendo issues further statement on Amiibo shortage originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Dec 2014 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibodiscontinuedmarthnintendoNintendo-of-Americanorth-americavillagerwii-fit-trainerwii-uThu, 11 Dec 2014 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo of Europe to keep 'regular supply' of Amiibos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/nintendo-of-europe-to-keep-regular-supply-of-amiibos/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/nintendo-of-europe-to-keep-regular-supply-of-amiibos/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/nintendo-of-europe-to-keep-regular-supply-of-amiibos/#comments Nintendo of Europe plans on replenishing its sold-out Amiibo stock following word that some of the figurines will be discontinued. The publisher told GameSpot that its "supplies of Amiibo are currently available in the European market." The statement runs slightly counter to that of Nintendo of America yesterday, which acknowledged that "due to shelf space constraints, other figures likely will not return to the market once they have sold through their initial shipment."

"We are continually aiming to always have a regular supply of Amiibo brought into the marketplace and there are many waves of Amiibo to come," Nintendo of Europe added. The concerns began with a tweet from Canadian retailer VideoGamesPlus, which said that Nintendo discontinued the Marth, Wii Fit Trainer and Animal Crossing Villager Amiibo toys. Nintendo of Europe noted the popularity of the figures, adding that "it's always possible that a few retailers may have sold out." Regardless, we'll always have our ass-kicking, borderline-sentient Mario Amiibo to toy with.
[Image: Nintendo]

JoystiqNintendo of Europe to keep 'regular supply' of Amiibos originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Dec 2014 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiiboeuropefiguresnintendoNintendo-of-Americanintendo-of-europesupplytoyswii-uWed, 10 Dec 2014 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo: We'll 'likely' phase out some Amiibo after first run]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/nintendo-well-likely-phase-out-some-amiibo-after-first-run/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/nintendo-well-likely-phase-out-some-amiibo-after-first-run/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/nintendo-well-likely-phase-out-some-amiibo-after-first-run/#comments Nintendo of America confirmed this week some Amiibo toys "likely will not return to market," following a retailer's claim that the publisher had officially discontinued the Marth, Wii Fit Trainer and Villager figures. In a statement provided to several sites including Wired, Kotaku and Destructoid, Nintendo said it'll aim to keep the "most popular" figures available, but that there's only so much shelf space to go around.

"We will aim for certain Amiibo to always be available," reads the statement. "These will be for our most popular characters like Mario and Link. Due to shelf space constraints, other figures likely will not return to the market once they have sold through their initial shipment."

Continue reading Nintendo: We'll 'likely' phase out some Amiibo after first run

JoystiqNintendo: We'll 'likely' phase out some Amiibo after first run originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Dec 2014 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibodiscontinuedgamecubegamecube-adaptergamecube-controllermarthnintendonorth-americastocksuper-smash-bros-for-wii-uvillagerwii-fit-trainerwii-uTue, 09 Dec 2014 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Double-cannon Samus Amiibo fetches $2,500 on eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/02/double-cannon-samus-amiibo-fetches-2-500-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/02/double-cannon-samus-amiibo-fetches-2-500-on-ebay/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/02/double-cannon-samus-amiibo-fetches-2-500-on-ebay/#comments
A defective Samus Amiibo proved this week that double the firepower can translate into many more multiples the cash. After discovering the potentially one-of-its-kind figure with two arm cannons rather than the regular one, a lucky Best Buy customer turned his $13 purchase into a $2,500 golden ticket on eBay.

Nintendo's Amiibo range launched last month, providing Wii U users with Skylanders-like toys that are compatible with games including Super Smash Bros. and Mario Kart 8. As GameSpot reports, Adam Truesdale was one of many customers who bought the Samus Amiibo, and he was all ready to rip into the case until a friend pointed out the defect.

Continue reading Double-cannon Samus Amiibo fetches $2,500 on eBay

JoystiqDouble-cannon Samus Amiibo fetches $2,500 on eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Dec 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibodefectdefectivemetroidnintendosamussamus-amiibowii-uTue, 02 Dec 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rayman Legends concept video showcases scrapped NFC features]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/24/rayman-legends-concept-video-showcases-scrapped-nfc-features/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/24/rayman-legends-concept-video-showcases-scrapped-nfc-features/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/24/rayman-legends-concept-video-showcases-scrapped-nfc-features/#comments
While Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and its Amiibo army are currently dominating store shelves, Ubisoft's Rayman Legends was once slated to be the first Wii U game to offer figure-powered nearfield communication (NFC) features, Unseen 64 reports.

The concept trailer above, intended for internal use within Ubisoft, shows players summoning new elements into levels by placing figures (including a Rabbid toy) on the Wii U gamepad. The footage features a prototype Wii U controller that hadn't finalized its NFC technology, so figures are placed on the gamepad's screen, rather than on the NFC badge present in the final version. Ubisoft eventually scrapped its plans for NFC support, and Rayman Legends figures never made it to retail.

Unseen 64 additionally shows off concept art for levels that didn't make the cut for the final version of Rayman Legends, including a recently unearthed "Dracula's Castle" world. A concept video showcasing these levels is available here.

[Video: Ubisoft / Liam Robertson]

JoystiqRayman Legends concept video showcases scrapped NFC features originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Nov 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibobetanfcnintendoprototyperayman-legendsubisoftunreleasedwii-uMon, 24 Nov 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Walmart and Amazon list more Amiibo figures for December 14]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/23/walmart-and-amazon-list-more-amiibo-figures-for-december-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/23/walmart-and-amazon-list-more-amiibo-figures-for-december-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/23/walmart-and-amazon-list-more-amiibo-figures-for-december-14/#comments We already knew that Amiibo figures for Captain Falcon, Diddy Kong, Little Mac, Luigi, Pit and Zelda would be worming their way into our hearts and onto our shelves sometime in December, but Amazon and Walmart seem to have narrowed that window down to a single day: December 14.

When browsing Walmart's website, a release date of 12/14/2014 can be seen next to each of the aforementioned figures, ditto for Amazon. And it's not just online listings - the official Walmart Twitter account has also seemingly confirmed the date. "Yes, the release date for Captain Falcon Amiibo is set for December 14," the "Walmart Elves" tweeted to a prospective Amiibo purchaser after he inquired if the date was official.

Of course, numbers on the internet and even Santa's helpers can be wrong from time to time, but it probably wouldn't hurt to stake out your spot in line if there's a particular figure you need to add to your collection.
[Image: Nintendo]

JoystiqWalmart and Amazon list more Amiibo figures for December 14 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 23 Nov 2014 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibocaptain-falcondiddy-kongfigureslittle-macluiginintendopitwii-uzeldaSun, 23 Nov 2014 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Meta Knight Amiibo exclusive to Best Buy, Lucario to Toys R Us]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/22/meta-knight-amiibo-exclusive-to-best-buy-lucario-to-toys-r-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/22/meta-knight-amiibo-exclusive-to-best-buy-lucario-to-toys-r-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/22/meta-knight-amiibo-exclusive-to-best-buy-lucario-to-toys-r-us/#comments
Where's the fun in collecting something if you can just place a one-and-done order for the entire set with an online retailer? Amiibo fans are in for some legwork (or a few extra clicks), as two more retailer-exclusive deals have been announced concerning February's batch of Amiibos: Meta Knight will reside exclusively at Best Buy, whereas Lucario can only be found between the tall shelves of Toys R Us.

This pair of exclusives follows news of Xenoblade Chronicles' Shulk continuing his series' GameStop-exclusive legacy when he arrives in the same set of Amiibos as Lucario and Meta Knight. At least existing partnerships are with mostly-easy-to-locate retailer chains - things will get a little more interesting with the announcement of an Ice Climbers Amiibo, which we assume will only be sold at a rickety shack atop Mount Everest.
[Image: Nintendo]

JoystiqMeta Knight Amiibo exclusive to Best Buy, Lucario to Toys R Us originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Nov 2014 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsamiibobest-buylucariometa-knightnintendosuper-smash-brostoys-r-uswii-uSat, 22 Nov 2014 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Get a closer look at final retail Amiibos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/22/get-a-closer-look-at-final-retail-amiibos/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/22/get-a-closer-look-at-final-retail-amiibos/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/22/get-a-closer-look-at-final-retail-amiibos/#comments The taxidermy of fictional characters is big business, especially if you have a cast as colorful and as prone to pugilism as Nintendo's bunch. We've toyed with the retail versions of Nintendo's starting Amiibo lineup for our Smash Bros. review (now updated with a score) and took some shots for your scrutinizing pleasure. Does Pikachu fancy himself a leader now?

JoystiqGet a closer look at final retail Amiibos originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Nov 2014 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibonintendosuper-smash-bros-for-wii-uwii-uSat, 22 Nov 2014 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Smash Bros. for Wii U review: Show me your moves]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/super-smash-bros-for-wii-u-review-show-me-your-moves/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/super-smash-bros-for-wii-u-review-show-me-your-moves/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/19/super-smash-bros-for-wii-u-review-show-me-your-moves/#commentsThis review has been updated with commentary and a final score following the launch of online play in Super Smash Bros. for Wii U.

"Who would win in a fight?" is the lighthearted crux of the Super Smash Bros. series, and it's impressive how extensive that conversation has become. Pitting beloved video game characters in unlikely rivalries seems as amusing as it did during the series' 1999 debut, especially when it involves a mix of iconic faces and left-field picks. With fresh contenders, several new competition types and a lite resemblance of Pokemon training in the form of Amiibos, Super Smash Bros. for Wii U is a meaty talking point that proves the "Who's the best?" debate is still well worth having.

Smash's bouts remain layered - newcomers can focus on throwing basic attacks by combining button presses with tilts of the joystick, learning deep-cut mastery of evasions and timing in-air knockouts as they add matches to their career. Whatever nuances your play style adopts, everyone's victory involves launching opponents from shared platforms, heaping damage on them to make banishing them to the oblivion beyond the screen's edges more feasible.

Continue reading Super Smash Bros. for Wii U review: Show me your moves

JoystiqSuper Smash Bros. for Wii U review: Show me your moves originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Nov 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibonintendosuper-smash-bros-2014super-smash-bros-for-wii-uwii-uWed, 19 Nov 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo clarifies Hyrule Warriors Amiibo functionality]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/17/nintendo-clarifies-hyrule-warriors-amiibo-functionality/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/17/nintendo-clarifies-hyrule-warriors-amiibo-functionality/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/17/nintendo-clarifies-hyrule-warriors-amiibo-functionality/#comments While it is true that all Amiibo figures are compatible with the Legend of Zelda-themed musou brawler known as Hyrule Warriors, certain Amiibos will have added functionality, according to Nintendo.

As you'd expect, the Amiibos that add the most to Hyrule Warriors are the game's stars, Hylian hero Link and Princess Zelda. When connected to the game, the Link Amiibo grants players access to the Spinner weapon first seen in The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. The rewards granted by the Zelda Amiibo are less specific, but Nintendo claims that players can link the figure to the game as frequently as once a day to unlock a random weapon of three-star quality or better. All other Amiibo figures can be linked to Hyrule Warriors once a day to unlock a rupee bonus, crafting materials or a weapon below three-star quality.

The first wave of Amiibo figures will roll out alongside Super Smash Bros. Wii U on November 21, while Nintendo plans to launch a software update to enable Amiibo functionality in Hyrule Warriors in "late November 2014."
[Image: Nintendo]

JoystiqNintendo clarifies Hyrule Warriors Amiibo functionality originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Nov 2014 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibohyrule-warriorsnintendowii-uMon, 17 Nov 2014 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Loot Crate details pricing for its Amiibo collection]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/15/loot-crate-details-pricing-for-its-amiibo-collection/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/15/loot-crate-details-pricing-for-its-amiibo-collection/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/15/loot-crate-details-pricing-for-its-amiibo-collection/#comments
Nintendo revealed a US-only partnership with Loot Crate earlier this week, and while gradually building an Amiibo collection sounds better than an all-at-once purchase, the deal's pricing information wasn't shared with the initial announcement. A Loot Crate update has remedied that problem, outlining what the Amiibo-themed subscription entails and when the related goods will arrive.

The promotion involves three weekly shipments for either $55 per crate (shipping included) or for an all-at-once payment of $155. While mini-mags, a cinch bag, a t-shirt and more extras are spread between the three shipments, four Amiibos will arrive in each of the first two shipments, with two more arriving in the third.

While the Loot Crate page doesn't explicitly name the Amiibos included in each shipment, Nintendo's announcement of the deal noted that subscribers will "receive 10 pre-selected Amiibo (including Mario, Pikachu, Donkey Kong, Fox and Yoshi)." Given that those Amiibos are shown in Loot Crate's imagery for the promotion, it would make sense if the deal's Amiibo roster will include those in the above image for every subscriber.
[Image: Amiibo]

JoystiqLoot Crate details pricing for its Amiibo collection originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Nov 2014 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiiboloot-cratenintendoSat, 15 Nov 2014 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[When "It" Became "He": An Amiibo Tale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/14/when-it-became-he-an-amiibo-tale/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/14/when-it-became-he-an-amiibo-tale/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/14/when-it-became-he-an-amiibo-tale/#comments With Super Smash Bros. for Wii U this month come the Amiibo, Nintendo's little army of figurines that can transport characters like Link, Princess Peach and even the lithe WiiFit Trainer into your game. Having a tiny statue of Mario seems like a goofy way to introduce extra fighters to Smash Bros., but as Anthony John Agnello (@ajohnagnello) explains to Alexander Sliwinski (@sliwinski), actually playing with an Amiibo can be a surprisingly harrowing experience.

Listen to the MP3


Credits
Chiptune music courtesy of Chipmusic and their respective artists, in order of appearance:
Production

Mike Suszek (@mikesuszek)

JoystiqWhen "It" Became "He": An Amiibo Tale originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Nov 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibojoystiq-presentsnintendosuper-smash-bros-for-wii-uwii-uFri, 14 Nov 2014 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Foresee a trip to GameStop if you want the Shulk Amiibo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/forsee-a-trip-to-gamestop-if-you-want-the-shulk-amiibo/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/forsee-a-trip-to-gamestop-if-you-want-the-shulk-amiibo/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/forsee-a-trip-to-gamestop-if-you-want-the-shulk-amiibo/#comments Shulk is the first Amiibo unearthed as retailer-exclusive in the US, according to a listing on GameStop. The figurine of the Xenoblade hero is one of 11 coming to North America in February 2015, and yesterday Nintendo said "some of our retail partners will be releasing a certain number of these as exclusive figures, so stay tuned for details."

Nintendo didn't say which Amiibos are exclusive to which retailers, but we're guessing that "certain number" isn't 1. Anyhow, the other ten toys due in February are Rosalina & Luma, Bowser, Lucario, Toon Link, Sheik, Ike, Meta Knight, Sonic, King Dedede and Mega Man.

Continue reading Foresee a trip to GameStop if you want the Shulk Amiibo

JoystiqForesee a trip to GameStop if you want the Shulk Amiibo originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Nov 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiiboexclusiveexclusivesgamestopNorth-Americashulksuper-smash-bros-2014super-smash-bros-for-wii-uunited-statesUSxenobladexenoblade-chroniclesWed, 12 Nov 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo: Pre-orders of Super Smash Bros. surpass Mario Kart 8]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/nintendo-pre-orders-of-super-smash-bros-surpass-mario-kart-8/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/nintendo-pre-orders-of-super-smash-bros-surpass-mario-kart-8/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/12/nintendo-pre-orders-of-super-smash-bros-surpass-mario-kart-8/#comments Super Smash Bros. pre-orders are at a record high for Wii U, eclipsing those of summer hit Mario Kart 8. In a Bloomberg interview, Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime said his company expects Smash to give the console a sales boost similar to the one provided by Mario Kart 8. In last month's financial results, Nintendo revealed the racer is at close to 3.5 million sales, with Wii U shipments up to 7.29 million worldwide.

"The launch of Mario Kart 8 has essentially doubled our Wii U sales year-on-year," Fils-Aime said. "Our expectation is that the sell-through for Smash is going to be very strong, certainly on par with what we saw with Mario Kart 8. We think the impact on hardware will be similarly dramatic."

Continue reading Nintendo: Pre-orders of Super Smash Bros. surpass Mario Kart 8

JoystiqNintendo: Pre-orders of Super Smash Bros. surpass Mario Kart 8 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Nov 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibomario-kart-8nintendoNintendo-of-Americapre-ordersReggie-Fils-Aimesuper-smash-bros-2014super-smash-bros-for-wii-uwii-uWed, 12 Nov 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo mega-busts out another batch of Amiibos [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/11/more-amiibos-new-wii-u-update-adds-amiibo-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/11/more-amiibos-new-wii-u-update-adds-amiibo-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/11/more-amiibos-new-wii-u-update-adds-amiibo-support/#comments Update: As our post went live, Nintendo of America unveiled a trailer pinning the 11 new Amiibo figures for February 2015. In the video, which you'll find below the break, Nintendo notes "some of our retail partners will be releasing a certain number of these as exclusive figures, so stay tuned for details."

As for Europe, Nintendo listed Rosalina & Luma, Bowser, Lucario, Toon Link, Sheik and Ike for January 23, 2015. Meta Knight, Sonic, King Dedede, Shulk and Sonic follow on February 20.

Original Story: Two more waves of Amiibo figures hit Japan early next year, Nintendo revealed this week. On January 22, 2015, eight of the Smash-compatible figurines roll onto Japanese retail shelves, followed by three more in February. The January octet is Lucario, Rosalina & Luma, Bowser, Toon Link, Sheik, Ike, Meta Knight and King Dedede, while the February triforce is Shulk, Sonic and the blue bomber Mega Man.

As Eurogamer notes, Nintendo lists Toon Link as compatible with Mario Kart 8 and Hyrule Warriors, while Sheik is supported by Hyrule Warriors, too.

Meanwhile, Nintendo of America announced a new Loot Crate Amiibo subscription service this week. Details such as prices and dates are scant for now, but according to Nintendo, "subscribers will receive 10 pre-selected Amiibo (including Mario, Pikachu, Donkey Kong, Fox, and Yoshi) separated into three special Loot Crate shipments throughout the holiday season without ever having to leave their homes."

Continue reading Nintendo mega-busts out another batch of Amiibos [update]

JoystiqNintendo mega-busts out another batch of Amiibos [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Nov 2014 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5.3.0amiibofirmwareloot-cratenintendosuper-smash-bros-2014system-updatewii-uTue, 11 Nov 2014 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Weekly: Free Radical's Haze, Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, Tony Hawk and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/09/joystiq-weekly-free-radicals-haze-call-of-duty-advanced-warf/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/09/joystiq-weekly-free-radicals-haze-call-of-duty-advanced-warf/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/09/joystiq-weekly-free-radicals-haze-call-of-duty-advanced-warf/#commentsWelcome to Joystiq Weekly, a "too long; didn't read" of each week's biggest stories, reviews and original content. Each category's top story is introduced with a reactionary gif, because moving pictures aren't just for The Daily Prophet.
Yes okay, BlizzCon 2014 was full of announcements. A new team-based shooter called Overwatch, a Hearthstone expansion, Warcraft movie details, the next StarCraft 2 expansion ... Blizzard fans have plenty to look forward to.

Thanks to an unexpected announcement however, Tony Hawk fans also have something to look forward to (or dread, depending on cynicism) in the form of a 2015 console game. Sure, the Skate series was a cool take on realistic tricks, but we wouldn't mind getting back to the outlandish challenges, yellow-text specials and SKATE letters of the original killer skateboarding series.

If you've never enjoyed injury-supplementing planks of wood with wheels, there's still plenty of good stuff from this week. News of Grand Theft Auto 5's first person mode, reviews for Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare and Lords of the Fallen, a feature exploring the development of the unfortunate PS3-exclusive Haze, and more is all waiting for you after the break!

Continue reading Joystiq Weekly: Free Radical's Haze, Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, Tony Hawk and more

JoystiqJoystiq Weekly: Free Radical's Haze, Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, Tony Hawk and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Nov 2014 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-bird-storyamiibocall-of-duty-advanced-warfaredestinyduck-huntfree-radicalgrand-theft-auto-5hazehearthstonehearthstone-goblins-vs-gnomeskingdom-hearts-hd-2-5-remixkirby-and-the-rainbow-curselords-of-the-fallenoverwatchthe-legend-of-zelda-majoras-mask-3dtony-hawkwarcraftSun, 09 Nov 2014 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo considering letting third-party games use Amiibos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/09/nintendo-considering-letting-third-party-games-use-amiibos/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/09/nintendo-considering-letting-third-party-games-use-amiibos/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/09/nintendo-considering-letting-third-party-games-use-amiibos/#comments We're still learning how Nintendo's line of Amiibo figurines will be used for its own games, but future compatibility announcements might not be limited to first-party titles. Nintendo of America Licensing Manager Damon Baker told IGN that the company is looking into ways for third-party developers, including independent developers, to use Amiibos with their games.

Baker said there's a "ton of interest" from third-party studios, adding that "There are some really creative ideas that are coming through and we are working towards some opportunities for next year."

So many integration questions! At least we know what Amiibos will do in Hyrule Warriors and Mario Kart 8, but even beyond future third party support, there's still the question of how the compatibility-confirmed Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, Mario Party 10 and Kirby and the Rainbow Curse will use Nintendo's line of real-world Smash trophies.
[Image: Joystiq]

JoystiqNintendo considering letting third-party games use Amiibos originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Nov 2014 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsamiibonintendothird-partywii-uSun, 09 Nov 2014 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo discusses cheaper Amiibo figures, trading cards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/06/nintendo-discusses-cheaper-amiibo-figures-trading-cards/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/06/nintendo-discusses-cheaper-amiibo-figures-trading-cards/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/06/nintendo-discusses-cheaper-amiibo-figures-trading-cards/#comments Future iterations of Nintendo's Amiibo figure line will include cards, the company revealed during last week's investor Q&A. Nintendo President Satoru Iwata and longtime designer and producer Shigeru Miyamoto discussed the company's near-field communications initiatives, Miyamoto stressing that Amiibo "can take forms other than figures." Miyamoto offered Amiibo-style cards as an example, hypothesizing a game that would require players to pass "several cards over the NFC reader/writer" in the Wii U Game Pad.

"I cannot discuss any of the details today, but Amiibo has the potential to propose new ways to play card games," Miyamoto said. The designer also brought up Animal Crossing as an example of a brand that could receive Amiibo compatibility in the future. Miyamoto noted that Nintendo plans on launching "smaller and even more affordable Amiibo figures in the future."

The first set of Amiibo figures, available for pre-order now, will launch on November 21 alongside Super Smash Bros. for Wii U. All of the initial Amiibo figures will be compatible with Hyrule Warriors, and Nintendo just confirmed that Amiibo support will arrive in Mario Kart 8 soon.
[Image: Nintendo]

JoystiqNintendo discusses cheaper Amiibo figures, trading cards originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Nov 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiiboAnimal-Crossingcardsfiguresnear-field-communicationnfcnintendoshigeru-miyamototrading-cardswii-uThu, 06 Nov 2014 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[All Amiibo figures compatible with Hyrule Warriors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/all-amiibo-figures-compatible-with-hyrule-warriors/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/all-amiibo-figures-compatible-with-hyrule-warriors/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/all-amiibo-figures-compatible-with-hyrule-warriors/#comments Nintendo revealed that all of its upcoming Amiibo figures are compatible with the Wii U brawler Hyrule Warriors, giving them added features beyond their previously announced Super Smash Bros. for Wii U functionality.

Hyrule Warriors players who scan the Link Amiibo will receive the Spinner, a weapon originally featured in The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. Other scanned figures will unlock randomly chosen weapons, materials, or rupee caches.

Amiibo functionality was also announced for Mario Kart 8 and Kirby and the Rainbow Curse. The first wave of Amiibo figures will roll out alongside the launch of Super Smash Bros. for Wii U later this month.

JoystiqAll Amiibo figures compatible with Hyrule Warriors originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Nov 2014 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibohyrule-warriorsnintendonintendo-directwii-uWed, 05 Nov 2014 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart 8 update adds Amiibo support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/mario-kart-8-update-adds-amiibo-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/mario-kart-8-update-adds-amiibo-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/05/mario-kart-8-update-adds-amiibo-support/#comments A downloadable Mario Kart 8 update, meant to steady the game for the initial volley of DLC cars and tracks, will also enable simple support for Nintendo's Amiibo lineup. A select number of characters from Nintendo's new toy army will unlock corresponding outfits for your Mii racer. Tapping the Kirby statue on the Wii U gamepad, for instance, will unlock a pink puffball-themed outfit for your Mario Kart Mii, complete with a helmet designed to resemble Kirby looking back at you, smiling in the face of a blue shell coming up.

Mario Kart 8 will also have unlocks for Mario, Luigi, Peach, Yoshi, Donkey Kong, Link, Captain Falcon, Samus, and Fox McCloud.

The Amiibo update will happen alongside the November 13 release of Mario Kart 8's first DLC - a pack of 8 tracks, 4 vehicles and 3 new characters, including Link and Tanooki Mario. The Amiibo toys, meanwhile, are coming out alongside the Wii U version of Super Smash Bros. on November 21. For more on the Amiibo and how they work in Smash, check out my impressions here.

JoystiqMario Kart 8 update adds Amiibo support originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Nov 2014 17:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibodlcmario-kart-8miinintendosuper-smash-broswii-uWed, 05 Nov 2014 17:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Smash Bros. Amiibo figures are part trophy, part protégé]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/24/super-smash-bros-amiibo-figures-are-part-trophy-part-protege/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/24/super-smash-bros-amiibo-figures-are-part-trophy-part-protege/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/24/super-smash-bros-amiibo-figures-are-part-trophy-part-protege/#comments
Nintendo is getting into the figurine game with a lineup called "amiibo" (disregard for capitalization included). Set to cooperate with several different games, most prominently this holiday's Wii U version of Super Smash Bros., the Amiibo statues capture the company's fanciful characters in a cute, tangible form. "Capturing" might be too strong a word, though, because it implies more fiction than there really is.

Continue reading Super Smash Bros. Amiibo figures are part trophy, part protégé

JoystiqSuper Smash Bros. Amiibo figures are part trophy, part protégé originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Oct 2014 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibodonkey-kongnintendosuper-smash-brossuper-smash-bros-2014super-smash-bros-wii-uwii-uFri, 24 Oct 2014 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Nintendo's awkward Amiibo primer for Super Smash Bros.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/24/watch-nintendos-awkward-amiibo-primer-for-super-smash-bros/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/24/watch-nintendos-awkward-amiibo-primer-for-super-smash-bros/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/24/watch-nintendos-awkward-amiibo-primer-for-super-smash-bros/#comments

If you can ignore the obnoxious camera sway, the kids who sound like thirtysomething actors on a CBS sitcom and everything about its clumsy plot, this Amiibo introduction video is a solid primer on the basics of Nintendo's upcoming figurines.
[Image: Nintendo]


JoystiqWatch Nintendo's awkward Amiibo primer for Super Smash Bros. originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Oct 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibonintendosuper-smash-bros-2014wii-uFri, 24 Oct 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyrule Warriors to Link up with Amiibo figure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/21/hyrule-warriors-to-link-up-with-amiibo-figure/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/21/hyrule-warriors-to-link-up-with-amiibo-figure/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/21/hyrule-warriors-to-link-up-with-amiibo-figure/#comments An Amiibo figure slated to launch alongside Super Smash Bros. for Wii U next month will also be compatible with the recently released Wii U brawler Hyrule Warriors, Nintendo of America announced today.

Players who purchase Super Smash Bros. for Wii U's Link figure can register the Hylian hero with Hyrule Warriors, presumably after a software update. No further details regarding Hyrule Warriors' Amiibo functionality have been announced, but Nintendo notes that more information will be available as Super Smash Bros. for Wii U approaches its North American launch on November 21.

[Image: Nintendo]

JoystiqHyrule Warriors to Link up with Amiibo figure originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Oct 2014 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibohyrule-warriorsnintendosuper-smash-bros-2014super-smash-bros-for-wii-uwii-uTue, 21 Oct 2014 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy Smash Bros. Wii U, get an amiibo free at Toys R Us]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/18/buy-smash-bros-wii-u-get-an-amiibo-free-at-toys-r-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/18/buy-smash-bros-wii-u-get-an-amiibo-free-at-toys-r-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/18/buy-smash-bros-wii-u-get-an-amiibo-free-at-toys-r-us/#comments
Even if the line of NFC-compatible amiibo toys doesn't eventually reflect Super Smash Bros.' entire roster, buying every figure revealed so far would put you back about $234 (!!!). You can ease into the investment by ordering the game from Toys R Us however, as the chain is offering a free amiibo with the purchase of Smash Bros. on Wii U.

The promotion is offered online while supplies last and is activated by placing both a copy of Smash Bros. and an amiibo of your choice in your cart. When we contacted employees at local stores to see if the deal is valid in store however, we received inconsistent answers, so you may want to call your nearest store before stopping in.

As for the $99.99 bundle that includes a GameCube-style controller, adapter and a copy of Smash Bros., it's currently absent from Toys R Us' website. We've contacted Toys R Us' PR department to see if the bundle will also eventually be compatible with the free amiibo deal and will update if we hear anything.
[Image: Nintendo]

JoystiqBuy Smash Bros. Wii U, get an amiibo free at Toys R Us originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Oct 2014 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amiibonintendosuper-smash-bros-2014toys-r-uswii-uSat, 18 Oct 2014 15:00:00 EST