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[Dirty disc drive lens? Nintendo has your back]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/dirty-disc-drive-lens-nintendo-has-your-back/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/dirty-disc-drive-lens-nintendo-has-your-back/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/dirty-disc-drive-lens-nintendo-has-your-back/#commentsFiled under: ,

Reasons not to smoke:
  1. Increased risk of lung cancer, high blood pressure, bronchitis, emphysema.
  2. It smells.
  3. Wii lens damage!!1!
Rather than lecture you on the first two (because hey, they're your lungs, bucko), we want to concentrate on the latter. Back in February, Japanese gamers reported that Wiis were having trouble reading newly purchased copies of Super Smash Bros. Brawl. Nintendo's intervention was swift, with the company blaming dirty console lenses -- Brawl was the first Wii game to release on a dual-layered DVD, and therefore especially sensitive to this issue.

Nintendo's first practical solution was ... not so swift. As in, it just came out now. The Wii Lens Cleaner Set is available to order on Nintendo's Japanese site for ¥800 (around $8) or Play-Asia for a tenner. It should leave your console lens sparkling and your Brawl career resurgent. Whadd'ya mean everyone plays Mario Kart now? Hush!


[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqDirty disc drive lens? Nintendo has your back originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 19:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesbrawldisc-errorlensrepairsmash-bros-brawlssbbTue, 14 Oct 2008 19:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl Stage of the Week: Galaxy Arena]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/brawl-stage-of-the-week-galaxy-arena/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/brawl-stage-of-the-week-galaxy-arena/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/brawl-stage-of-the-week-galaxy-arena/#commentsFiled under:

We wanted something pure today, something easy -- a stage that's just meant for brawling. We didn't need any gimmicks, or any crazy architecture and stage design. Our one prerequisite for this week was to find a stage that was fun to fight on, period.

When we came across Galaxy Arena by TwilightRaver, we knew we had found exactly what we were looking for.

Continue reading Brawl Stage of the Week: Galaxy Arena

JoystiqBrawl Stage of the Week: Galaxy Arena originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenabrawlgalaxy-arenasmash-bros-brawlssbbstagestage-buildersuper-smash-bros-brawlTue, 15 Jul 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl Stage of the Week: Freezer Room]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/brawl-stage-of-the-week-freezer-room/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/brawl-stage-of-the-week-freezer-room/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/brawl-stage-of-the-week-freezer-room/#commentsFiled under:

It may not be the prettiest stage we've ever seen, but we found ourselves having a great time while playing in Matt M.'s Freezer Room. We didn't really understand the title at first, as we originally only noticed the little ice platform up top in this very tall stage -- one ice platform does not a "freezer room" make! Once we started brawling, though, we saw the little enclosed area at the bottom with an ice floor, and everything made much more sense.

Yet that's only one element of the stage that we enjoyed -- click past the break to see more!

Continue reading Brawl Stage of the Week: Freezer Room

JoystiqBrawl Stage of the Week: Freezer Room originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlfreezer-roomjoystiqfeaturessmash-bros-brawlssbbstagestage-buildersuper-smash-bros-brawlTue, 08 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl Stage of the Week: Airborne Arena]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/brawl-stage-of-the-week-airborne-arena/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/brawl-stage-of-the-week-airborne-arena/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/brawl-stage-of-the-week-airborne-arena/#commentsFiled under:

Airborne Arena? More like "Sadistic Arena."

This stage was submitted by Wii Fanboy reader K2J, who's been busy making lots and lots of Brawl stages. He let us know his favorites, which were the ones we tested out for ourselves. So, why did we end up choosing to feature Airborne Arena? Well, to put it in gamer terms, the stage completely owned us.

Continue reading Brawl Stage of the Week: Airborne Arena

JoystiqBrawl Stage of the Week: Airborne Arena originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airborne-arenabrawlsmash-bros-brawlssbbstagestage-buildersuper-smash-bros-brawlTue, 01 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dojo update: Wait, what?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/dojo-update-wait-what/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/dojo-update-wait-what/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/dojo-update-wait-what/#commentsFiled under:

We buried our friend, the Smash Bros. Brawl Dojo, many months ago. Then, like a zombie, the beast rose from its grave to honor today's European Brawl release.

Aside from an apology (and the promise that you can play Brawl in five different languages), the Dojo doesn't offer much in terms of words. Yet, it does feature a snapshot gallery with some super silly Brawl images worth looking at. "Snapshots Galore" has been around the Dojo two times before, but since we happened to be around those parts today anyway, we decided to put the most recent ones in a gallery for your viewing pleasure (below).

We're really proud of what the Smash Bros. community has done, regarding these snapshots (which are filled with ridiculousness, awesomeness, and "huh?") and other creations, too. Now it's your turn to take the Brawl torch, Europe. Let's see what types of goodies you can come up with.

Warning: The pictures in the gallery below reveal spoilers! Only view the gallery if you're man (or woman!) enough to handle it.


[Thanks RupeeClock!]

JoystiqDojo update: Wait, what? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawldojoeuropesmash-bros-brawlsnapshotssnapshots-galoressbbsuper-smash-bros-brawlFri, 27 Jun 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 6/16-6/22]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-6-16-6-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-6-16-6-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-6-16-6-22/#commentsFiled under:


Oh, how the mighty have fallen. Well, except for the PSP, that is. Sony's handheld is still as mighty as ever. Even so, the Wii toppled all the other home consoles once again last week, reclaiming its second-place spot:

The new Wii kid on the block in the charts is Mario Super Sluggers, which didn't sell as well as we thought it would, considering that it's a baseball game -- one published by Nintendo, no less. That's why we love Japanese sales so much, though. Just when we think we have the country all figured out, it goes and surprises us again.

Everything else Wii related is pretty much just business as usual, but check past the break to see where the games ranked in the top thirty and how much the top tenners sold.

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 6/16-6/22

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 6/16-6/22 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanbrawlchartsfamily-trainergamesalesjapanlinks-crossbow-trainingmario-kartmario-kart-wiimario-super-sluggersmedia-createmystery-dungeonshiren-the-wanderer-3smash-bros-brawlssbbsuper-smash-bros-brawlwii-fitwii-playwii-sportsFri, 27 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[On sale at Amazon -- Nine cheap games for Nintendo lovers [update 5]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/on-sale-at-amazon-nine-cheap-games-for-nintendo-lovers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/on-sale-at-amazon-nine-cheap-games-for-nintendo-lovers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/on-sale-at-amazon-nine-cheap-games-for-nintendo-lovers/#commentsFiled under:

The "Nintendo Icon" Amazon Gold Box has gone live, so it's time for those of you who can shop at Amazon.com to get your credit cards at the ready. With nine different deals on the table today, you might just find something that appeals to you.

The "Deal of the Day" is Super Smash Bros. Brawl for $25.99, which really leaves you with no excuse not to buy it. The lightning deals are where the excitement is always at, though, and there are eight of them that will cycle throughout the day.

Before we get into what's on the list, we must say that the sales are slightly disappointing. Maybe it's just us, but we wish Amazon had included more second-party titles. After all, such games are considered "Nintendo Icons," too. There's one title in particular that we feel is sorely missing -- but we digress.

To see Amazon's hints for the eight lightning deals, just click past the break.

Continue reading On sale at Amazon -- Nine cheap games for Nintendo lovers [update 5]

JoystiqOn sale at Amazon -- Nine cheap games for Nintendo lovers [update 5] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbrawldeal-of-the-daygold-boxlegend-of-zeldasmash-bros-brawlsmgssbbsuper-mario-galaxysuper-smash-bros-brawltwilight-princesszeldaFri, 27 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl Stage of the Week: Hueco Mundo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/brawl-stage-of-the-week-hueco-mundo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/brawl-stage-of-the-week-hueco-mundo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/24/brawl-stage-of-the-week-hueco-mundo/#commentsFiled under:



This week's stage is by IGN user Tabris_Arkangel, who had a lot of custom levels to choose from. We ended up picking "Heco Mundo" [sic] because 1) it rocks, and 2) when do you ever see a Bleach stage, really? We've featured a lot of stages here, many of them themed. But Bleach? That's not a concept we often come across.

Continue reading Brawl Stage of the Week: Hueco Mundo

JoystiqBrawl Stage of the Week: Hueco Mundo originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bleachbrawlheco-mundohueco-mundosmash-bros-brawlssbbstagestage-buildersuper-smash-bros-brawlTue, 24 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tallyho, guv'na -- UK Smash Showdown at Gamestation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/tallyho-guvna-uk-smash-showdown-at-gamestation/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/tallyho-guvna-uk-smash-showdown-at-gamestation/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/tallyho-guvna-uk-smash-showdown-at-gamestation/#commentsFiled under:

If you like Super Smash Bros. Brawl, and you happen to live in the UK, then this announcement might have some kind of connection with you. Twenty Gamestation stores across the nation will each be hosting a 64-person Super Smash Bros. Showdown on June 28. This is no slouchy, bored-marketing-guy tournament either. Every winner from every store will take home a 40" Samsung LCD TV and a Samsung Home Theater System, with all the DVD and surround sound trimmings.

Tournaments are great and all, but this one is really something else. The prizes are actually extremely good, and you only need to win six matches to take home the grand prize. Only one Fanboy blogger lives in the UK, but fortunately he is awful at Brawl. In fact, he doesn't even own the game. Or pants.

Register for your local tournament at the official website -- it's probably going to fill up fast, so make like a tree and hurry.


[Via press release]

JoystiqTallyho, guv'na -- UK Smash Showdown at Gamestation originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlcompetitionenglandgamestationsamsungssbbsuper-smash-bros-brawltournamentukTue, 17 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl Stage of the Week: Shy Guy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/brawl-stage-of-the-week-shy-guy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/brawl-stage-of-the-week-shy-guy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/brawl-stage-of-the-week-shy-guy/#commentsFiled under:


Any Nintendo fan worth his or her salt should recognize this character. Love him or hate him, we've been seeing Shy Guy make many Mario-related appearances ever since Super Mario Bros. 2. Ironically, he started out as a non-Mario character in Doki Doki Panic, but the conversion of the game in the West was enough to solidify his place as a popular enemy (or sports player) in many a Mario title.

But, that's enough Shy Guy history for now. Check past the break to download this stage by TheDarkPlumber2.0.

Continue reading Brawl Stage of the Week: Shy Guy

JoystiqBrawl Stage of the Week: Shy Guy originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlshy-guysmash-bros-brawlssbbstagestage-buildersuper-smash-bros-brawlTue, 17 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 6/2-6/8]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-6-2-6-8/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-6-2-6-8/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-6-2-6-8/#commentsFiled under:

The top Wii game last week wasn't Mario Kart, or even Wii Fit. Rather, beloved roguelike Shiren got the coveted title, as Shiren the Wanderer 3 debuted in second behind the PS3's new Dragon Ball Z. The previously mentioned Nintendo games did show up in the top ten, though, along with Family Trainer.

We're happy to see both Smash Bros. Brawl and Battalion Wars 2 hanging tough in the top thirty; the previous week had us a bit worried. In hardware, though, the Wii remains sandwiched between the PSP and the DS:

Just click on past the break if you'd like to see how Wii software fared.

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 6/2-6/8

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 6/2-6/8 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanbattalion-wars-2brawlbwiichartsfamily-trainergamesalesjapanlinks-crossbow-trainingmario-kartmario-kart-wiimedia-createmystery-dungeonshiren-the-wanderershiren-the-wanderer-3smash-bros-brawlssbbsuper-smash-bros-brawlwii-fitwii-playwii-sportsFri, 13 Jun 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendads? Father-son Brawl tournament]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/nintendads-father-son-brawl-tournament/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/nintendads-father-son-brawl-tournament/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/nintendads-father-son-brawl-tournament/#commentsFiled under:


Nothing shows Dad your life-long appreciation more than kicking his butt at Super Smash Bros. Brawl, further affirming to him that he is now a lost soul in a whole world of new technology. Well, that could be the case, but plenty of parents have proven their dedication to gaming in the past, so the chil'n may not have the upper hand.

Stroll on down to the Nintendo World store in New York City on Father's Day for an official Brawl tournament, where fathers and sons will engage in battle, bond lovingly, and question each other's sexuality upon choosing Peach or Zelda.

Save any household fussin' and feudin' for the tournament, as pent-up male rage is set to explode in an ocean of umbrellas, star wands and banana peels. Nintendo is awarding two Wii consoles, two copies of Brawl and a winner's trophy for whichever dynamic duo takes the tournament crown. All the action goes down from 1 - 4pm on Sunday, June 15.

JoystiqNintendads? Father-son Brawl tournament originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlcompetitionfathers-daynew-yorknintendo-world-storesmash-bros-brawlssbbsuper-smash-bros-brawltournamentThu, 12 Jun 2008 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl Stage of the Week: The Colosseum]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/brawl-stage-of-the-week-the-colosseum/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/brawl-stage-of-the-week-the-colosseum/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/brawl-stage-of-the-week-the-colosseum/#commentsFiled under:


During the days of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum was a place where many would spectate gladiatorial contests. These contests were usually gory and brutal, and the gladiators had to face daunting challenges. It's for the best that such barbarisms were put to an end in real life, but we're glad we can try entering the ring ourselves in this new Smash Bros. Brawl stage by Ryan E.

In Rome, the Colosseum is also known as an architectural masterpiece. Building a stage upon such ideals has a lot to live up to, but luckily, this one delivers. So, click on past the break if you want to download or find out more about this level.

Continue reading Brawl Stage of the Week: The Colosseum

JoystiqBrawl Stage of the Week: The Colosseum originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlcolosseumsmash-bros-brawlssbbstagestage-buildersuper-smash-bros-brawlTue, 10 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon gives reasons to buy Brawl and Guitar Hero if you don't own them yet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/amazon-gives-reasons-to-buy-brawl-and-guitar-hero-if-you-dont-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/amazon-gives-reasons-to-buy-brawl-and-guitar-hero-if-you-dont-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/amazon-gives-reasons-to-buy-brawl-and-guitar-hero-if-you-dont-o/#commentsFiled under:

It's not often that we find great deals on big-name titles, especially two on the same day, but perhaps you were feeling lucky, punk, and the fickle game deal gods decided to reign their glory upon you.

Behind door number one, we have Super Smash Bros. Brawl for $48.99! Okay, we're just joshing you (not about the price, since it is marked down a dollar, but that's not what we're excited about). Rather, with a purchase of Brawl, Amazon is offering a $10 gift card. Around these parts, an Amazon gift card is as good as cash, so those of you who are Brawl-less (in North America) should consider getting your rumble on.

The other deal is for Guitar Hero III, which has been on sale before, but usually as a "Deal of the Day." We're not sure how long this particular sale will last, but if you want $20 off your Guitar Hero purchase, you can get it for $69.99 (also at Amazon).

Of course, there is one bad thing about popular games getting deals; the chances are high that everyone already has them.

[Via CAG]

Source: Super Smash Bros. Brawl with $10 gift card
Source: Guitar Hero Wii for $69.99

JoystiqAmazon gives reasons to buy Brawl and Guitar Hero if you don't own them yet originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbrawldealgh3ghiiiguitar-heroguitar-hero-3guitar-hero-iiismash-bros-brawlssbbsuper-smash-bros-brawlMon, 09 Jun 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 5/26-6/1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-5-26-6-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-5-26-6-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-5-26-6-1/#commentsFiled under:

Wii Fit gained some competition last week, as Family Trainer finally made its debut in Japan. Even so, Namco Bandai's game couldn't overtake Nintendo's six-month-old fitness title. Many Wii games were also pushed to the bottom of the top thirty in this week's chart, with Smash Bros. Brawl in danger of falling off completely.

Despite less than stellar software sales, Wii hardware performed well. Yet, once again, the Wii fell behind the currently dominating PSP:

The software figures are located after the break, so click on.

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 5/26-6/1

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 5/26-6/1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanbattalion-wars-2brawlbwiichartsfamily-trainergamesalesjapanlinks-crossbow-trainingmario-kartmario-kart-wiimedia-createsmash-bros-brawlssbbsuper-smash-bros-brawlwii-fitwii-playwii-sportsFri, 06 Jun 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl Stage of the Week: Spear TWMX]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/brawl-stage-of-the-week-spear-twmx/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/brawl-stage-of-the-week-spear-twmx/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/brawl-stage-of-the-week-spear-twmx/#commentsFiled under:


If you've been completing your events like a good little boy or girl, you've probably unlocked the Spear Pillar stage. The layout in this stage is simple, but effective, and it stands out as one of our favorites. Yet, there are just a few, teeny obstacles that may get in your way -- like, say, some badass, legendary pokémon.

Do you love Spear Pillar, but are tired of getting your butt kicked by Dialga, Palkia, or Cresselia? Would you rather the stage be about straight-up brawling? Then you should check out McBey's Spear TWMX after the break.

Continue reading Brawl Stage of the Week: Spear TWMX

JoystiqBrawl Stage of the Week: Spear TWMX originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawljoystiqfeaturesmcbeysmash-bros-brawlspear-pillarspear-twmxssbbstagestage-buildersuper-smash-bros-brawlTue, 03 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 5/19-5/25]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-5-19-5-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-5-19-5-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-5-19-5-25/#commentsFiled under:

No new Wii games debuted last week; at least, none that ended up in the top thirty. There was one teensy weensy title that was introduced into the Japanese market, though. You may have heard of it: Guitar Hero III.

To put it bluntly, sales for the game were low. In fact, it didn't even make the top fifty in Media Create's charts, and Famitsu reports that the title only sold 1,300 copies. Compared to sales in other regions (like North America and Europe, for example), where Guitar Hero III performed fiercely, you can see that tastes often differ between western and eastern gamers.

Other than that, there's not to much to report about the software charts. Battalion Wars 2 managed to hang in the top ten, while Mario Kart Wii slipped into third place. Meanwhile, Smash Bros. Brawl might be in danger of falling out of the top thirty soon.

In hardware, the gap between the Wii and the PSP lessened as sales for Nintendo's console rose, while sales for Sony's handheld fell. Still, the PSP had a lead of about 15,000 units last week, keeping the Wii locked in its second place spot:

The software numbers are located after the break, so go on and take a look.

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 5/19-5/25

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 5/19-5/25 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 May 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanbattalion-wars-2brawlbwiichartsdeca-sportadeca-sportsgamesalesgh3ghiiiguitar-heroguitar-hero-3guitar-hero-iiijapanlinks-crossbow-trainingmario-kartmario-kart-wiimedia-createsalessmash-bros-brawlssbbsuper-smash-bros-brawlwii-fitwii-playwii-sportsFri, 30 May 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl Stage of the Week: Classic DK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/brawl-stage-of-the-week-classic-dk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/brawl-stage-of-the-week-classic-dk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/brawl-stage-of-the-week-classic-dk/#commentsFiled under:

This week we're featuring another classically themed stage, as the thought of creating retro levels on Brawl seems to fuel stage submissions. This one in particular is an interpretation of the original Donkey Kong arcade game, in which Mario made his first appearance as Jumpman.

Unfortunately, Donkey Kong won't be throwing barrels at you and there are no princesses that need saving. However, if you want a fun brawl on a nostalgia-inducing stage, check out "Classic DK" by blu_j.

Continue reading Brawl Stage of the Week: Classic DK

JoystiqBrawl Stage of the Week: Classic DK originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 May 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlclassic-dkdonkey-kongsmash-bros-brawlssbbstagestage-buildersuper-smash-bros-brawlTue, 27 May 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 5/12-5/18]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-5-12-5-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-5-12-5-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-5-12-5-18/#commentsFiled under:

The new kid on the Japanese Wii software block last week was Battalion Wars 2, which faired well enough in its debut to hit the top ten. Will it stay there? Our guess is no, sadly. Still, it's nice to see the game get some recognition in Japan.

Once again, the only non-Nintendo title for the Wii that made the top thirty was Deca Sports, which dropped thirteen spots from the week before. Ouch. We're not sure what made Japan fall so out of love with Deca Sports in one week, but the game seems to have lost some of its legs. Smash Bros. Brawl also took a spill, falling from tenth place to nineteenth.

The other noticeable drop was Mario Kart Wii, which only fell one spot, but an important spot -- from first to second -- and finally succumbed to the frightening power of Monster Hunter Portable 2nd G. Hardware was also a PSP victory, as the handheld beat all other systems by a convincing margin.

Now that you've seen the hardware numbers, check past the break for the software sales.

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 5/12-5/18

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 5/12-5/18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanbattalion-wars-2brawlbwiichartsdeca-sportadeca-sportsgamesalesjapanlinks-crossbow-trainingmario-kartmario-kart-wiimedia-createsalessmash-bros-brawlssbbsuper-smash-bros-brawlwii-fitwii-playwii-sportsFri, 23 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl Stage of the Week: Metroid revisited]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/brawl-stage-of-the-week-metroid-revisited/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/brawl-stage-of-the-week-metroid-revisited/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/brawl-stage-of-the-week-metroid-revisited/#commentsFiled under:



This week we were feeling nostalgic, and nobody's stages sate such cravings as well as Anthony's do. Therefore, we decided to go with another one of his creations. Simply titled "Metroid," this level recreates the look and feel of one our favorite NES classics. In this side-by-side comparison, you can see how well Anthony captured the essence of the original Metroid.

Continue reading Brawl Stage of the Week: Metroid revisited

JoystiqBrawl Stage of the Week: Metroid revisited originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlmetroidsmash-bros-brawlssbbstagestage-buildersuper-smash-bros-brawlTue, 20 May 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 5/5-5/11]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-5-5-5-11/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-5-5-5-11/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-5-5-5-11/#commentsFiled under:

The gap between Wii and PSP sales is slowly but surely decreasing, making us wonder if the Wii might be able to overtake Sony's handheld once the Monster Hunter hype dies down:
  • PSP: 89,884
  • Wii: 67,308
  • Nintendo DS: 51,228
  • PlayStation 3: 8,054
  • PlayStation 2: 7,464
  • Xbox 360: 1,298
Yet, the true triumph for the Wii last week was in software. Nintendo scored big all-around, but the Wii claimed six of the top ten spots in the chart. Keep in mind, though, that all the Wii games that made it to the top thirty are first-party titles, with the exception of Deca Sports.

In other news, Smash Bros. Brawl managed to hop up five spots, showing us that it won't be disappearing any time soon. Meanwhile, Mario Kart is inching nearer to Brawl's total sales, making it a close race between the two games. To see how they're currently fairing against each other, just click past the break.

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 5/5-5/11

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 5/5-5/11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanbrawlchartsdeca-sportsgamesalesjapanlinks-crossbow-trainingmario-kartmario-kart-wiimedia-createsmash-bros-brawlssbbsuper-smash-bros-brawlwii-fitwii-playwii-sportsFri, 16 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl Stage of the Week: Another Castle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/brawl-stage-of-the-week-another-castle/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/brawl-stage-of-the-week-another-castle/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/brawl-stage-of-the-week-another-castle/#commentsFiled under:


The stage we picked this week is called "Another Castle," made by Wii Fanboy reader Logan C.

Oldschool Mario fans, take note of the stage's name -- it's a reference. But even if you don't find any princesses here, you can at least find a fun Brawl experience. Just read on past the break to download the castle and learn more about it.

Continue reading Brawl Stage of the Week: Another Castle

JoystiqBrawl Stage of the Week: Another Castle originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 May 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-castlebrawlsmash-bros-brawlssbbstagestage-buildersuper-smash-bros-brawlTue, 13 May 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sakurai to spill beans on what makes games fun]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/sakurai-to-spill-beans-on-what-makes-games-fun/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/sakurai-to-spill-beans-on-what-makes-games-fun/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/12/sakurai-to-spill-beans-on-what-makes-games-fun/#commentsFiled under:

The obvious choice aside, we can't think of many game designers who are better qualified than Masahiro Sakurai to discuss how to make fun videogames. Which is a good job, really, because the Smash Bros. and Kirby creator has been booked by DiGRA, Japan's Digital Games Research Association, to deliver a talk on what makes games enjoyable.

Don't go getting excited, though. Sakurai's speech, entitled 'Game-ness,' will be delivered at the Fukutake Hall Running Theatre at Tokyo University's Hongo campus, and to an audience of only 150 people. If by some chance you are located near to the venue, know that DiGRA members get in free, while student non-members pay ¥500 (roughly $5) and all other non-members ¥1000 (approx $10).

We wonder what games he'll use to convey his message? Bringing up Brawl or Kirby might seem a little conceited, but those are two of the titles we would use.

[Via Develop]

JoystiqSakurai to spill beans on what makes games fun originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 May 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlDiGRAjapankirbymasahiro-sakuraisakuraismash-bros-brawlssbbtokyoMon, 12 May 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 4/28-5/4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-4-28-5-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-4-28-5-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-4-28-5-4/#commentsFiled under:


Ah, remember Link's Crossbow Training? The game that was bundled with the Wii Zapper last November (December, for PALs)? It was only released in Japan last week. If sales are any indication, though, Japanese gamers were clamoring for the goron-junk shooter rail shooter, as it claimed the third place spot.

Even so, Link had to hail to the king (baby), as Mario Kart Wii still dominated the charts. The other big news for Mario Kart Wii? It passed one million sales in the Far East, denoting its success. Meanwhile, Deca Sports clamored back into the top ten, but Brawl only slipped further downward, thus answering our question from last week. Also proving that the Japanese love their sports games for the Wii, Bandai Namco's Pro Baseball Family Stadium debuted at spot twenty.

The Wii triumphed in hardware last week as well. While the console continues to trail behind Sony's handheld, Wii sales went up almost 30,000 units from last week -- perhaps from the Link's Crossbow boost. Go on and check things out for yourself after the break, if you feel so inclined.

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 4/28-5/4

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 4/28-5/4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanbrawlchartsdeca-sportadeca-sportsgamesalesjapanlinks-crossbow-trainingmario-kartmario-kart-wiimedia-createpro-baseball-family-stadiumsalessmash-bros-brawlssbbsuper-smash-bros-brawlwii-fitwii-playwii-sportsFri, 09 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl Stage of the Week: It's Tetris time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/brawl-stage-of-the-week-its-tetris-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/brawl-stage-of-the-week-its-tetris-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/brawl-stage-of-the-week-its-tetris-time/#commentsFiled under:

Last week we mentioned that we wanted to feature a DS-related stage. Reader Chris stepped up and sent us two Tetris levels, one of which we chose to feature.

Called "Sziltoj 2," this stage is meant to represent "a Tetris game in progress," according to Chris. Considering the limited amount of tools that you're given in the stage builder, we think he pulled this off pretty well. Come check out how after the break!

Continue reading Brawl Stage of the Week: It's Tetris time

JoystiqBrawl Stage of the Week: It's Tetris time originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 May 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlsmash-bros-brawlssbbstagestage-buildersuper-smash-bros-brawlSziltojSziltoj-2Tue, 06 May 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 4/21-4/27]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-4-21-4-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-4-21-4-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-4-21-4-27/#commentsFiled under:

Mario Kart Wii continues to top the charts in Japan, but a lot of movement happened with the Wii's other software. Because a bunch of new games came out last week, Wii Sports, Deca Sports, and Super Smash Bros. Brawl were all knocked out of the top ten. We know that Wii Sports will return to top ten fame soon enough, since it always does, but we'll be interested to see whether the other two titles can pull that off as well.

On the hardware side of things, the Wii got sandwiched by the two portables as it jumped up into second place:
  • PSP: 92,411
  • Wii: 48,796
  • Nintendo DS: 42,435
  • PlayStation 3: 9,107
  • PlayStation 2: 7,108
  • Xbox 360: 1,283
To see the software sales, just bring your super smooth moves past the break.

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 4/21-4/27

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 4/21-4/27 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanbrawlchartsdeca-sportadeca-sportsgamesalesjapanmario-kartmario-kart-wiimedia-createsalessmash-bros-brawlssbbsuper-smash-bros-brawlwii-fitwii-playwii-sportsFri, 02 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl Stage of the Week: The Web]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/brawl-stage-of-the-week-the-web/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/brawl-stage-of-the-week-the-web/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/brawl-stage-of-the-week-the-web/#commentsFiled under:


Welcome to Nintendo Wii Fanboy's Brawl Stage of the Week feature, in which we showcase some of our favorite Smash Bros. Brawl stages. We'll have some themed weeks, some contest weeks, and some "whatever we damn well please" weeks to help you keep your Brawl experience fresh.

This week we're featuring a completely original stage, made by SoshiKitai. Called "The Web," Soshi considers this one his masterpiece -- and we can see why. The picture doesn't really translate how fun and crazy this stage actually is. In fact, "The Web" is so massive that not even the warp star trick can fully capture it. Luckily, you can experience it for yourself by downloading it here, but check on after the break for some more details on the stage and instructions on how to play it.

Continue reading Brawl Stage of the Week: The Web

JoystiqBrawl Stage of the Week: The Web originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlsmash-bros-brawlssbbstagestage-builderstagessuper-smash-bros-brawlthe-webwebTue, 29 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 4/14-4/20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-4-14-4-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-4-14-4-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/25/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-4-14-4-20/#commentsFiled under:

The Wii had a good week in Japan, as far as sales are concerned. With Mario Kart Wii continuing to champion the cause, the little white console almost nabbed second place in hardware:
  • PSP: 85,421
  • Nintendo DS: 44,551
  • Wii: 44,241
  • PlayStation 3: 7,438
  • PlayStation 2: 6,545
  • Xbox 360: 1,076
Even in software, five of the top ten games were Wii titles. Wii Sports found its way back into the coveted ten once again, managing to coexist peacefully with Hudson's Deca Sports. Wii Play, meanwhile, performed the worst in relation to the rest of the Wii games in the top thirty, but still ended up in spot twelve.

Check after the break to see just how well Mario Kart Wii did last week in Japan.

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 4/14-4/20

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 4/14-4/20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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This just in: Super Smash Bros. Brawl sold a lot. That's an observation that is neither new or particularly exciting, but put it in graph form and Brawl's phenomenal success is capable of wowing us all over again.

At first glance, we presumed those blue bars represented the first month sales of all three Smash games in the U.S. But no: those are lifetime sales of Super Smash Bros. and Super Smash Bros. Melee respectively, while the red bar is Brawl's first month sales. That's right: in its opening month alone, Brawl not only bypassed the lifetime sales of the first title in the franchise, but has already reached 70% of its predecessor's all-time sales. Our flabbers? Consider them gasted.

[Update -- incorrect link removed]

JoystiqSuper Chart Bros. Brawl originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlchartfightinggraphnpdsmash-bros-brawlssbbTue, 22 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl Stage of the Week: Super Mario World]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/brawl-stage-of-the-week-super-mario-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/brawl-stage-of-the-week-super-mario-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/brawl-stage-of-the-week-super-mario-world/#commentsFiled under:


Welcome to Nintendo Wii Fanboy's "Stage of the Week" feature, in which we showcase some of our favorite Smash Bros. Brawl stages. We'll have some themed weeks, some contest weeks, and some "whatever we damn well please" weeks to help you freshen up your Brawl experience.

This week's featured Brawl stage offers a generous serving of nostalgia. Although we're sure it won't be the last classic game scene that we'll showcase here, we chose this as the first because of the creativity and execution that went into it. We're not sure where the very talented Anthony got the idea to recreate Yoshi's House from Super Mario World, but it looks absolutely smashing.

Not only that, but the stage is also fun to play on. It seems simple enough, but the multiple platforms and tiers add some variety and depth. You don't have to take our word for it, though, since you can download it for yourselves here. (Instructions for playing on the stage are located after the break!)

If you want to see one of your favorite fan-made stages (or one of your own creations!) featured here, be sure to email it as an attachment to smashsubs@nintendowiifanboy.com. From the hard, to the ridiculous, to the incredibly awesome, to the even more ridiculous, we want to see them all!

Note: Sorry for the noticeable photoshopping -- unfortunately, the Brawl camera doesn't allow you to take big enough pictures. Image credit: Anthony's site.

Continue reading Brawl Stage of the Week: Super Mario World

JoystiqBrawl Stage of the Week: Super Mario World originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlfightersmash-bros-brawlssbbstagestage-buildersuper-smash-bros-brawlTue, 22 Apr 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 4/7-4/13]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-4-7-4-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-4-7-4-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/18/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-4-7-4-13/#commentsFiled under:

It looks like just the same old stuff for Wii sales in Japan last week. Wait a minute -- what's that, you say? Mario Kart Wii dominated Japan? Sure enough, sitting pretty at the top of the charts is Nintendo's famous kart racer, with almost half a million copies sold in its first week.

Despite the Mario Kart bump, the Wii only took third place in hardware. Considering that Japanese gamers love them some handhelds, though, that's not too much of a surprise. One little observation that may floor you, on the other hand, is that Brawl was already overtaken by Monster Hunter Portable 2nd G in total sales.

See it to believe it after the break.

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 4/7-4/13

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 4/7-4/13 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanbrawlchartsdeca-sportsgamesalesjapanmario-kartmario-kart-wiimedia-createsalessmash-bros-brawlssbbsuper-smash-bros-brawlwii-fitwii-playwii-sportsFri, 18 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl Stage of the Week: Joystiq edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/brawl-stage-of-the-week-joystiq-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/brawl-stage-of-the-week-joystiq-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/brawl-stage-of-the-week-joystiq-edition/#commentsFiled under:


Welcome to Nintendo Wii Fanboy's "Stage of the Week" feature, in which we showcase some of our favorite Smash Bros. Brawl stages. We'll have some themed weeks, some contest weeks, and some "whatever we damn well please" weeks to help you freshen up your Brawl experience.

Before you ask, the answer is no -- we're not going to propose to you. We're in love with ourselves too much to do anything like that, which is why the stage we're showcasing this week is all about narcissism.

If you look closely at the stage pictured above, you can see that it spells out the name of our mother site, Joystiq. Now, that's not to say we picked this stage because we'd be totally fired if we didn't (just play along, folks). Yet, despite our evil Joystiq overlords, we just love the idea of our favorite gaming blog (besides this one and this one) invading our brawls.

Awesome name-in-the-stage stuff aside, though, the level is pretty basic. There are a few falling boxes and moving platforms, but nothing that you Smash Bros. pros couldn't handle. Still, we have to give credit to James Ransom-Wiley for creating this amazing display of self love.

To try out the stage for yourself, just download it here. Once you've done that, you can check out our instructions (posted after the break) if you need help playing it on your Wii.

Of course, this is just week one, and there will be many more stage features to come. We'd very much like to see some of your contributions and suggestions, so send them in to smashsubs@nintendowiifanboy.com. From the hard, to the ridiculous, to the incredibly awesome, to the even more ridiculous, make sure to show us your favorites (and your own creations)!

Continue reading Brawl Stage of the Week: Joystiq edition

JoystiqBrawl Stage of the Week: Joystiq edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Apr 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlfightersmash-bros-brawlssbbstagestage-buildersuper-smash-bros-brawlTue, 15 Apr 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Mario Kart vs. Smash Bros.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/wii-warm-up-mario-kart-vs-smash-bros/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/wii-warm-up-mario-kart-vs-smash-bros/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/13/wii-warm-up-mario-kart-vs-smash-bros/#commentsFiled under:

It's time to choose between two beloved Nintendo franchises. So, tell us -- when it really comes down to it, which series do you love more? Mario Kart, or Smash Bros.? And don't forget to tell us why.

Keep in mind, we're asking about the series as a whole, not one particular game!

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Mario Kart vs. Smash Bros. originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlmario-kartmario-kart-wiismash-bros-brawlssbbSun, 13 Apr 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 3/31-4/6]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/11/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-3-31-4-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/11/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-3-31-4-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/11/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-3-31-4-6/#commentsFiled under:

Last week was once again all about Sony. Although Nintendo still had a good showing in the top thirty, there were only five Wii games in the software chart. Wii Fit continues to be the system's best-seller, but Super Smash Brothers Brawl and Deca Sports also made appearances in the top ten.

As for hardware, the Wii once again trails behind the handhelds, but leads the pack in home consoles.

Hardware:
  • PSP: 120,964
  • Nintendo DS: 55,190
  • Wii: 44,618
  • PlayStation 3: 11,303
  • PlayStation 2: 10,423
  • Xbox 360: 1,452
More numbers can be seen after the break!

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 3/31-4/6

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 3/31-4/6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlchartsdeca-sportsgamesalesjapanmedia-createsalessmash-bros-brawlssbbwii-fitwii-playwii-sportsFri, 11 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Big in Japan: DS coasts to fiscal 2007 victory]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/big-in-japan-ds-coasts-to-fiscal-2007-victory/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/big-in-japan-ds-coasts-to-fiscal-2007-victory/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/big-in-japan-ds-coasts-to-fiscal-2007-victory/#commentsFiled under: ,



Been keeping up with sales figures from Japan recently? If so, you'll have noticed something unusual: for the first time in years, the DS isn't absolutely creaming the competition. Whether the PSP's resurgence will last is another debate for another post, but it hasn't been able to prevent Nintendo's handheld from taking top spot in fiscal year 2007.

The DS won in style as well, selling 6.34 million units (that's one DS sold every five seconds, FYI) and comfortably beating the Wii (3.74m sales) into second place. In case you're wondering, that sound you can hear is Iwata, Reggie, and Shiggy clinking champagne glasses on board their yacht of solid gold.

The gap between the Wii and PSP is considerably smaller, while the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 occupy fourth and fifth place respectively (mystifyingly, the PlayStation 2 wasn't counted). And it wasn't only hardware sales that Nintendo dominated -- the five best-selling games were all from the Nintendo stable, with Wii Fit, Mario Party DS, Wii Sports, Super Smash Bros. Brawl, and Pokemon Mystery Dungeon doing the business. Make like Godzilla and stomp past the break for the charts.

Continue reading Big in Japan: DS coasts to fiscal 2007 victory

JoystiqBig in Japan: DS coasts to fiscal 2007 victory originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlchartsjapanmario-partymystery-dungeonpokemonps3pspwiiwii-fitwii-sportsxbox-360Thu, 03 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 3/17-3/23]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-3-17-3-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-3-17-3-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/28/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-3-17-3-23/#commentsFiled under:

Goodbye, Family Ski and Winning Eleven: Play Maker 2008 -- we hardly knew ye. While Family Ski enjoyed a seven-week run in the top thirty, Wining Eleven (aka Pro Evolution Soccer) only lasted for four. It's no coincidence that they fell off this week, though, as fifteen spots were taken up by new releases.

The big Wii dog in town was not Brawl (which ended up 7th), and not even Wii Fit (which ended up 5th), but new release Deca Sports. We can't help but wonder if the appearance of Deca Sports will have an effect on that other sports game for the Wii. Is there room for both on the charts? (We think so.) And will Deca Sports have the same longevity as Wii Sports? (Probably not, but we're sure the game will do well for itself.) It's also worth noting that Deca Sports had the third highest third-party sales debut for the Wiil, following only Dragon Quest: Swords and Resident Evil: Umbrella Chronicles.

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 3/17-3/23

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 3/17-3/23 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Mar 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanbaroquebrawlchartsdeca-sportseveryones-general-knowledge-training-tvfamitsugamesaleshotdhouse-of-the-dead-2-and-3-returnjapanmedia-createsmash-bros-brawlssbbwii-fitwii-playwii-sportsFri, 28 Mar 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Smash 'achievements']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/wii-warm-up-smash-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/wii-warm-up-smash-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/wii-warm-up-smash-achievements/#commentsFiled under:

Whether or not you've gotten the chance to play Smash Bros. Brawl, you've probably heard about the game's achievements challenges and rewards. This system is somewhat similar to earning achievements in Xbox games, although not quite.

We really like how Brawl handles challenges, but what do you think? Do the challenges add any depth to the game? And, how do they stack up when compared to achievements on Xbox titles?

Also, if you do own the game, have you used any golden hammers yet to unlock any rewards? If so, on what challenges?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Smash 'achievements' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Mar 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsbrawlchallengesgolden-hammerrewardssmash-bros-brawlssbbunlockxboxSat, 22 Mar 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 3/10-3/16]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-3-10-3-16/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-3-10-3-16/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/another-week-in-japan-hardware-and-software-numbers-3-10-3-16/#commentsFiled under:


Japanophiles and sales chart nerds, it's that time of week again to take a look at last week's sales in the Land of the Rising Sun. Those of you who've been keeping up won't find much excitement in this week's chart, though. All the same software from the week before showed up, but it might not be long before Family Ski and Winning Eleven fall out of the top thirty.

It was also nice to see Metroid Prime 3: Corruption stick around, as the Nintendo FPS nabbed the number eleven spot for this week. Other than that, the only noticeable difference is that Smash Bros. dropped to fourth. What's interesting is that Brawl is no longer the best selling Wii game, either, as Wii Fit reclaimed that honor. We also learned that you can't keep the big three (Wii Fit, Wii Sports, and Wii Play) out of the top ten for long.

In hardware sales, the Wii fell a smidge behind the PSP, and did only slightly better than the DS.

Hardware:
  • PSP: 57,651
  • Wii: 55,845
  • Nintendo DS: 53,266
  • PlayStation 3: 14,934
  • PlayStation 2: 9,930
  • Xbox 360: 1,744
To see the software numbers and rankings for last week, make sure to click past the break.

Continue reading Another Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 3/10-3/16

JoystiqAnother Week in Japan: Hardware and software numbers 3/10-3/16 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>another-week-in-japanbrawlchartscorruptioneveryones-general-knowledge-training-tvgamesalesjapanmedia-createmetroid-prime-3pesplay-maker-2008pro-evolution-soccersmash-bros-brawlssbbwii-fitwii-playwii-sportswinning-elevenFri, 21 Mar 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl sneakers sprint into our hearts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/brawl-sneakers-sprint-into-our-hearts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/brawl-sneakers-sprint-into-our-hearts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/brawl-sneakers-sprint-into-our-hearts/#commentsFiled under:



The rabid excitement of the pre-Brawl days affected us all in different ways. Fueled by daily dojo updates, some simply crossed dates off on a calendar, while others we would bore their our friends senseless about one day playing as Snake. Joseph Colon did something far, far cooler: he grabbed a pair of plain old white Nike Air Force 1s, went to town on them with a marker pen, and made something beautiful.

These customized sneakers feature all 36 Brawlers, as hand-drawn by Joseph himself, who clearly doesn't lack talent. The results are fantastic, and we'd totally wear these while "shooting hoops" at the local court if, you know:
  1. We ever actually went outside
  2. We were in any way whatsoever sporty
[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqBrawl sneakers sprint into our hearts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Mar 2008 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlshoessmash-bros-brawlssbbMon, 17 Mar 2008 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Smash Bros. Brawl knocks sales records into the sky]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/super-smash-bros-brawl-knocks-sales-records-into-the-sky/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/super-smash-bros-brawl-knocks-sales-records-into-the-sky/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/super-smash-bros-brawl-knocks-sales-records-into-the-sky/#commentsFiled under: ,


Smashing (get it? Get it?) Nintendo of America's first-week sales records (held at one point by Pokemon Gold and Silver), Super Smash Bros. Brawl has sold a ridiculous 1.4 million copies from its March 9th launch (and, well, before that) and yesterday. That comes out to 120 copies a minute. Nintendo's Cammie Dunaway described the reaction to Brawl in sweeping, but appropriate, terms: "Super Smash Bros. Brawl has made the leap from video game to cultural phenomenon."

We get the feeling our Game Nights are just going to continue to get more crowded, which is okay! We're happy to lose to a large and varied group.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqSuper Smash Bros. Brawl knocks sales records into the sky originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brawlfightingsalessmash-bros-brawlMon, 17 Mar 2008 19:00:00 EST