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[Pandora's Tower gets an English trailer from Nintendo of Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/pandoras-tower-gets-an-english-trailer-from-nintendo-of-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/pandoras-tower-gets-an-english-trailer-from-nintendo-of-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/pandoras-tower-gets-an-english-trailer-from-nintendo-of-europe/#comments
Don't get too excited -- there's still no North American release of Pandora's Tower to speak of. But in the meantime you can still enjoy this (kind of gross) English trailer for the Japanese export, coming out April 13 on the Wii in Europe.

JoystiqPandora's Tower gets an English trailer from Nintendo of Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englisheuropenintendonorth-americapandoras-towertrailerwiiWed, 28 Mar 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinect used to teach in South African primary school]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/kinect-used-to-teach-in-south-african-primary-school/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/kinect-used-to-teach-in-south-african-primary-school/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/24/kinect-used-to-teach-in-south-african-primary-school/#commentsMicrosoft is giving primary school kids in South Africa a chance at a real hands-off education. Classrooms at Lakeside Park Primary, in the Vryheid, KwaZulu-Natal district (yes, it's a Natal project) are being equipped with Kinect cameras and Xbox 360s as part of a Microsoft initiative, in order to encourage English use in the classroom.

"Shy learners, who take months to speak up in class in their mother tongue - let alone in English, were already shouting out to classmates to 'jump' and 'duck' with no inhibition," Lakeside Park Primary Deputy Principal Karen Kirsten explained. According to XboxGaming, the Kinect and its English-language games are used to reduce the affective filter involved in learning and speaking English, so it can be better used as the teaching language in the classroom.

As a bonus, it teaches valuable mime skills.

JoystiqKinect used to teach in South African primary school originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 10:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edugamingenglishkinectmicrosoftsouth-africaxboxThu, 24 Mar 2011 10:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Devil Summoner: Soul Hackers receiving fan translation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/devil-summoner-soul-hackers-receiving-fan-translation/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/devil-summoner-soul-hackers-receiving-fan-translation/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/31/devil-summoner-soul-hackers-receiving-fan-translation/#comments Devil Summoner: Soul Hackers is a game originally released back in 1997 for the Sega Saturn in Japan. It was a sequel to Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner, itself a game within the same Megami Tensei universe inhabited by the Persona series. Publisher Atlus has tried a few times to bring the title to the states, but Sony hasn't yet allowed it, so a group of fans calling itself "Devil Hackers" is working on a fan-made translation of the title, playable on the PSP.

You can watch a "teaser trailer" of the translation after the break -- but someone needs to translate the word "teaser" for the Devil Hackers, because it's thirteen minutes long. Assuming things work themselves out, fans interested in playing the game in English should get their chance soon.

Continue reading Devil Summoner: Soul Hackers receiving fan translation

JoystiqDevil Summoner: Soul Hackers receiving fan translation originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>devil-hackersdevil-summoner-soul-hackerenglishjapaneseplaystationportpspshin-megami-tenseisonytranslationFri, 31 Dec 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dissidia 012 [duodecim] trailer full of feats (also, some feet)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/dissidia-012-duodecim-trailer-full-of-feats-also-some-feet/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/dissidia-012-duodecim-trailer-full-of-feats-also-some-feet/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/24/dissidia-012-duodecim-trailer-full-of-feats-also-some-feet/#comments
Here's the latest trailer out of Japan for the upcoming Dissidia 012 [duodecim] Final Fantasy, featuring lots of Final Fantasy-flavored fighting and fan service. Make sure to turn on captions (not that they'll help), and stay tuned at 4:38 to see some feet that fans claim belong to Yuna.

Continue reading Dissidia 012 [duodecim] trailer full of feats (also, some feet)

JoystiqDissidia 012 [duodecim] trailer full of feats (also, some feet) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Dec 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dissidia-012-final-fantasydissidia-duodecim-final-fantasyenglishfinal-fantasylightningplaystationpspsonyvaanyunaFri, 24 Dec 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Disgaea Infinite trailer makes as much sense as the other Disgaea games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/disgaea-infinite-trailer-makes-as-much-sense-as-the-other-disgae/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/disgaea-infinite-trailer-makes-as-much-sense-as-the-other-disgae/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/06/disgaea-infinite-trailer-makes-as-much-sense-as-the-other-disgae/#comments
That Disgaea Infinite trailer that snuck out in Japanese a little while back has now been officially released and translated into almost-English and, while it's a little harsh to call the series "the ultimate grind-fest" (unless fans want to wear that title as a badge of honor), this weird little adaptation that turns the strategy RPG into a "visual novel" adventure game still looks interesting.

Last we heard, this one was due out for the PSP in May, but this trailer actually says June of 2010. We checked in with NIS America, and they informed us that the game is due out on June 8th of this year. Look for it as a downloadable title on PSN then.

JoystiqDisgaea Infinite trailer makes as much sense as the other Disgaea games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 20:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010adventuredelaydisgaeadisgaea-infiniteenglishjapanesejuneNippon-IchiNippon-Ichi-Softwarenis-americareleasestrategy-rpgtrailertranslatedvisual-novelTue, 06 Apr 2010 20:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Valkyria Chronicles DLC lacks English voice track]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/valkyria-chronicles-dlc-lacks-english-voice-track/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/valkyria-chronicles-dlc-lacks-english-voice-track/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/valkyria-chronicles-dlc-lacks-english-voice-track/#comments Folks who are currently working their way through Valkyria Chronicles' recently released DLC pack, Challenge of the Edy Detachment, have noticed something strange about the content's English-language voice overs: They don't exist. The add-on pack only includes two audio settings: Japanese and silent. Of course, you can still follow the DLC's plot through English subtitles, but hey -- we came here to blow up tanks with other tanks, not to read.

Siliconera suggests that the absence of words we can understand could be attributed to the fact that this DLC is going live six months after the game was released in the U.S., so it's possible the English voice cast couldn't be brought back together for an encore recording. We've contacted Sega for an official explanation and to find out why the English-language omission in the DLC wasn't announced before people, you know, bought it.

JoystiqValkyria Chronicles DLC lacks English voice track originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 12:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcenglishrpgsegastrategyvalkyria-chroniclesvoicevoice-oversFri, 26 Feb 2010 12:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese gamers split on subtitles vs. dubs for Western games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/japanese-gamers-split-on-subtitles-vs-dubs-for-western-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/japanese-gamers-split-on-subtitles-vs-dubs-for-western-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/japanese-gamers-split-on-subtitles-vs-dubs-for-western-games/#comments Hong Kong action aficionados and anime fans have long debated over subtitles and dubs. While some prefer the ease (and comedy) of listening to English dubs, purists believe original language tracks should be preserved. The debate rages on with video games, as evidenced by the complaints of many Final Fantasy XIII fans, upset by the lack of the game's original Japanese track.

The debate seems to garner the same kind of division across the Pacific, where Japanese gamers are equally conflicted about the use of subs and dubs. In fact, according to a poll conducted by games publisher Spike, the opinion amongst gamers is essentially split. The poll quizzed over six thousand individuals over the course of two years, and 49% of respondents said they prefer subtitles while 47% said they prefer dubs.

With such a divided opinion regarding the subject, it seems like the best bet for publishers would be to find a way to squeeze multiple audio and subtitle options into their games. That way, gamers on both sides of the fence can be appeased -- and our sick dream of playing Gears of War 3 in Finnish with Chinese subtitles can finally come true.

[Via Andriasang]

JoystiqJapanese gamers split on subtitles vs. dubs for Western games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dubsenglishjapanlocalizationspikesubssubtitlesMon, 22 Feb 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kojima Productions working on English language Peace Walker demo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/kojima-productions-working-on-english-language-peace-walker-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/kojima-productions-working-on-english-language-peace-walker-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/kojima-productions-working-on-english-language-peace-walker-demo/#comments
The Metal Gear saga is not the easiest thing to follow. However, it's far more difficult to understand when it's not in English. Thankfully, Kojima Productions is going to make the Peace Walker demo a lot more accessible by rectifying that crucial problem. The latest Kojima Productions podcast reveals that an English demo is already in the works. Makes sense, considering the English voice casting is already complete.

"One could also argue that Peace Walker could be the most innovative title in the series yet," Ludwig stated in his TGS hands-on. Perhaps, after playing the upcoming demo, you will be that hypothetical "one" he spoke of.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqKojima Productions working on English language Peace Walker demo originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoenglishkojima-productionsmetal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-peace-walkerpeace-walkerMon, 02 Nov 2009 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIII's English voiceovers are complete]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/final-fantasy-xiiis-english-voiceovers-are-complete/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/final-fantasy-xiiis-english-voiceovers-are-complete/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/final-fantasy-xiiis-english-voiceovers-are-complete/#comments
Klee Kuo, one of Square Enix's marketing Moogles, just dropped word that the English voice work for Final Fantasy XIII is complete. Kuo also made sure to say how impressed he was with the new Summons (marketing, ho!) and the fact that it'll incorporate a "unique level up system in FFXIII like Sphere Grid in FFX and License Board in FFXII."

So, Squenix, now that you have the voice work out of the way, can you get us that demo? Please?

JoystiqFinal Fantasy XIII's English voiceovers are complete originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishfinal-fantasy-xiiijrpgMicrosoftrpgsquare-enixvoiceovervoiceworkXbox-360Fri, 21 Aug 2009 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese survey links video games to learning English]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/japanese-survey-links-video-games-to-learning-english/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/japanese-survey-links-video-games-to-learning-english/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/japanese-survey-links-video-games-to-learning-english/#comments
Odds are, if you can read this blog post, then you know English. It's crazy, we know, but we've performed several calculations and experiments before coming to this conclusion. A Japanese company called iSHARE INC. wanted to get to the bottom of a similar issue, polling 413 individuals with a single question: If you study English, what method is good? Much to our surprise, the top choice was video games!

Meanwhile, if you're trying to learn incorrect English, we suggest you check out any of the games on this list.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqJapanese survey links video games to learning English originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Jan 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishjapanlanguagestudyFri, 30 Jan 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[English version of DS recipe application coming to America in November]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/english-version-of-ds-recipe-application-coming-to-america-in-no/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/english-version-of-ds-recipe-application-coming-to-america-in-no/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/english-version-of-ds-recipe-application-coming-to-america-in-no/#commentsFiled under:


At Nintendo's E3 press conference this morning, the company announced that their an English version of their popular Japanese Nintendo DS recipe application, Cooking Nanny, will be coming to America in November. More as we get it.

JoystiqEnglish version of DS recipe application coming to America in November originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewscookinge3-2008englishrecipeswiiTue, 15 Jul 2008 12:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese classrooms using Nintendo DS to teach English]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/japanese-classrooms-using-nintendo-ds-to-teach-english/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/japanese-classrooms-using-nintendo-ds-to-teach-english/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/japanese-classrooms-using-nintendo-ds-to-teach-english/#commentsFiled under:


We've had many Game Boy Pockets, GBA SPs and other portable devices snatched up by certain agitated educators during our formative years, which is why the recent news of a new program to teach English to Japanese students using the Nintendo DS fills us with unbridled, elderly bitterness. Think of the things our generation of handheld companions could have taught us! Geometry from Tetris! Microbiology from Dr. Mario! Animal husbandry from Pokémon!

To be fair, the program (which was recently examined in a Reuters write-up) requires students at Japan's Joshi Gakuen all-girl junior high school to use special English-instructing software with the handhelds, which are collected at the end of each class to prevent any unsavory Pokédueling during recess. The program is just barely into its one-year trial period, though the school's vice principal is very optimistic -- if only he knew he was actually transforming his pupils into rot-brained, knife-wielding miscreants!

JoystiqJapanese classrooms using Nintendo DS to teach English originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsds-liteeducationenglishjapanesejoshi-gakuennintendo-dsschoolSat, 28 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS is an excellent tool for teaching Japanese students English]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/ds-is-an-excellent-tool-for-teaching-japanese-students-english/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/ds-is-an-excellent-tool-for-teaching-japanese-students-english/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/ds-is-an-excellent-tool-for-teaching-japanese-students-english/#commentsFiled under:

Japanese students at Tokyo's Joshi Gakuen all-girls junior high school are getting DS handhelds for the classroom, but they're not playing New Super Mario Bros. on them. They're using them to learn a new language: English. What makes it such a great tool in aiding their studies? Perhaps it's familiarity ...

The handheld system is incredibly popular in the country and many students have one they enjoy using to play games on a regular basis. It's a system they're comfortable with, has an easy interface, and mixes a bit of fun in with the learning. If we would've had the option when learning another language in our schooltime studies, we'd probably remember how to ask where the bathroom is in German.

JoystiqDS is an excellent tool for teaching Japanese students English originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishjapanlanguageschoolstudentstudentstrainingThu, 26 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sketchy English training: officially a trend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/sketchy-english-training-officially-a-trend/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/sketchy-english-training-officially-a-trend/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/sketchy-english-training-officially-a-trend/#commentsFiled under: ,


Moe and English training apparently go well together, because, as Akibablog reports, another English language learning DS game full of cute anime girls is on the way. Moesta: Moeru Toudai Eigo Juku (Moesta Burn! Tokyo University English Cram School) features 5,000 quiz questions ranging from middle-school level to those found on the Tokyo University entrance exam.

Your training is supervised by three angels named Grammar, Idiom, and Word. They're also the subjects of the irritating/catchy music video being used to promote the game, which (of course!) contains transformation sequences that border the indecent. While Moetan DS seemed to be a parody of otaku culture, this appears to authentically pander to otaku's obsessions with magical girls and anime choreography.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqSketchy English training: officially a trend originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishmoemoestatrainingFri, 30 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Learn English, sort of, with Moetan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/learn-english-sort-of-with-moetan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/learn-english-sort-of-with-moetan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/learn-english-sort-of-with-moetan/#commentsFiled under: ,

Moetan is a series of English lesson books which follow Nao, a high school student, and Ink-chan, an underdeveloped magical girl who is the subject of the moe content. The series combines bizarre, terrible Engrish with inappropriate-looking young girls to create something that is, of course, popular.

While we are, of course, fairly disgusted with the depictions of the girls in here (magical girl transformation scenes in particular are always off-putting), we're more worried about what passes for English teaching. Just as in the books and anime, the English text is far from native-speaker quality. An example sentence found in Moetan DS: "They say lunatic people are making the English word book."

[Image via ITMedia]

JoystiqLearn English, sort of, with Moetan originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 May 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishidea-factorymoetanmoetan-dstrainingTue, 27 May 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[English of the Demo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/english-of-the-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/english-of-the-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/english-of-the-demo/#commentsFiled under:


Start your Friday with a bit of an English refresher -- and some zombie-dispatching! Sega has created a short Flash demo for English of the Dead, recreating the multiple-choice training mode. In this mode, a zombie will run out and threaten you with two rubber mallets. Then, a Japanese sentence (our Flash player doesn't have Japanese language support, hence the gibberish) and a partial English translation will appear. It's up to you to choose the correct English word on the bottom screen, and compel the zombie to jump into a trap door!

You actually have to wait a long time before the zombie will attack you. Presumably this is more challenging if you don't know English.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqEnglish of the Demo originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 May 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoenglishenglish-of-the-deadflashsegatrainingFri, 09 May 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[D3 teaches Simple English]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/d3-teaches-simple-english/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/d3-teaches-simple-english/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/07/d3-teaches-simple-english/#commentsFiled under: ,

We knew about the last two volumes in D3 Publisher's Simple DS series: Vol. 39 THE Shouboutai (Firefighter) and Vol. 40 THE Gekai (Surgeon), both of which are games that involve real-world tasks. But the three entries in the series preceding those were unknown to us. They happen to be rooted in the everyday world as well, in a much less game-like way than the others. In fact, they're training non-games for the TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication).

Vol. 36 THE Arc de Minitsuku! TOEIC Test Bunpou Tokkun (Master the Arc! TOEIC Intensive Grammar Training), Vol. 37 THE Arc de Minitsuku! TOEIC Test Listening Kyoka (TOEIC Listening Enhancement), and Vol. 38 THE Arc de Manabu! TOEIC Test Hajimete (Study the Arc! Beginning the TOEIC) all focus on different aspects of the English test, which is used to determine English proficiency for business use. We hope they were at least made to a higher standard than other Simple titles, or that nobody relies on them as study aids. If they are actually okay, D3 may be on to something: their usual low budgets would translate excellently to "games" that rely almost entirely on text menus.

Read: Vol. 36 THE Arc de Minitsuku! TOEIC Test Bunpou Tokkun
Read: Vol. 37 THE Arc de Minitsuku! TOEIC Test Listening Kyoka
Read: Vol. 38 THE Arc de Manabu! TOEIC Test Hajimete

JoystiqD3 teaches Simple English originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 May 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3englishsimpletoeictrainingWed, 07 May 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Backpack Identification of the Dead]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/backpack-identification-of-the-dead/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/backpack-identification-of-the-dead/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/backpack-identification-of-the-dead/#commentsFiled under: ,

Hey, look, even more English of the Dead stuff! A lot of the screens in the latest update from GAME Watch showed up in yesterday's bundle of screens, but we think this is worth a look anyway. The new screens are organized by chapter and by mode, for a complete overview of the new training game (which means you can see what the Magician boss, and the others we had yet to see, look like on the DS).

Most importantly (to our curiosity), the new screens include this straight-on shot of the new backpack. It's clearly (as clearly as it can be in that resolution) a Japanese Mega Drive in the second model, with the blue button and the red cartridge slot (and the fact that the game is Japanese) distinguishing it from other Model 2 Mega Drive/Genesis systems.

JoystiqBackpack Identification of the Dead originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishenglish-of-the-deadlanguagesegatrainingWed, 16 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A feast of English of the Dead screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/hella-english-of-the-dead-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/hella-english-of-the-dead-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/hella-english-of-the-dead-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: ,

IGN seems to have developed a hunger for screenshots of English of the Dead, much like we have. We cannot be stopped. We remain unfazed by bodily harm as we wander the Earth endlessly in search of screenshots. "screeeeeeeeeens," we intone in an inhumanly low growl. We are driven by an insatiable desire to direct-feed.

They've posted the biggest, most delicious screen update ever for the zombie English trainer, featuring screens of multiple modes and levels, and finally -- sort of -- answering the question of what the dogs of the AMS will wield in the DS game. It looks like maybe a Genesis? The thing in their hands is a big rectangular tablet for writing. And not a Sega Pico, which would have been really funny.

JoystiqA feast of English of the Dead screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Apr 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishenglish-of-the-deadhouse-of-the-dead-2segatrainingTue, 15 Apr 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[English of the Judo chop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/english-of-the-judo-chop/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/english-of-the-judo-chop/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/09/english-of-the-judo-chop/#commentsFiled under:

If we lived in Japan and needed to learn English, English of the Dead would clearly be our choice of software. Yet, we're not saying that Paon doesn't have a fun idea for their English training game, too. New Horizon English Training Course DS might not have zombies, but it does have Judo.

As you may have guessed, the way in which this title handles its English quizzes is through sports minigames. It's unclear how exactly the Judo game works, but there's also a marathon event (during which players must write out the correct letters quickly in order to run fast), and a weight training game (which has players identify whether or not a translation is correct).

Of course, in our hearts, zombies still win -- every time.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqEnglish of the Judo chop originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Apr 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishjudomarathonminigamesnew-horizon-english-training-coursenongamepaonsportstrainingweight-liftingWed, 09 Apr 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New trailer confirms English of the Dead's status as best zombie language game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/new-trailer-confirms-english-of-the-deads-status-as-best-zombie/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/new-trailer-confirms-english-of-the-deads-status-as-best-zombie/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/08/new-trailer-confirms-english-of-the-deads-status-as-best-zombie/#commentsFiled under: ,


Sega is really proud of their funny zombie drawings. Of course they have every right to be, since the funny zombie drawings are in fact funny, but we are still surprised by how heavily this trailer for English of the Dead relies upon them. Of course, if you had an excuse to create an animation of a zombie being served your game's modes on separate plates, wouldn't you?

In addition to being hilarious and enthusiastic, this trailer provides our first brief look at the game's engine in motion. It's so smooth! Again we must register our disbelief that Sega has ported The House of the Dead 2 down so well, for a training game.

[Via Inside Games]

JoystiqNew trailer confirms English of the Dead's status as best zombie language game originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Apr 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishenglish-of-the-deadsegatrainingTue, 08 Apr 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Screenshots of the Dead]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/screenshots-of-the-dead/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/screenshots-of-the-dead/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/31/screenshots-of-the-dead/#commentsFiled under:

Not actual screenshots of the dead, obviously -- that would be horrendous, and would shatter all boundaries of good taste.

No, we're actually referring to new shots of Sega's English of the Dead, which just shambled our way from Japanese site Gemaga, and which are now waiting for your fleshy, delicious EYES in the gallery below.

Incidentally, the image for this post is taken from a promotional flier for the game (full version viewable here). We just put it there because a zombie in a mortarboard best sums up the inherent hilarity of Sega's game, a title in which gigantic, two-headed serpents can teach us the Japanese word for "bicycle."


[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqScreenshots of the Dead originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Mar 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishenglish-of-the-deadsegatrainingzombiesMon, 31 Mar 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[English (and Zombie Weighing) of the Dead]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/english-and-zombie-weighing-of-the-dead/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/english-and-zombie-weighing-of-the-dead/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/29/english-and-zombie-weighing-of-the-dead/#commentsFiled under: ,

As if we didn't already have enough reason to love the bizarre English of the Dead: the latest update to the official website reveals this little wonder here. It's one of the ways that the game records your progress -- in addition to an accuracy percentage and medal rankings, there's a measure of the amount (by head weight) of zombies killed. In the screenshot here, it's revealed that 646 zombies weigh roughly the same as one elephant.

Assuming a weight of 10,000 pounds for an average elephant, that means that the average zombie head weighs about 15.5 pounds. That's pretty heavy for a head! Ah, we can't wait for the inevitable arguments elephant and human head weight.

JoystiqEnglish (and Zombie Weighing) of the Dead originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishenglish-of-the-deadremakesegatrainingFri, 29 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[English of the Dead from Website of the French]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/english-of-the-dead-website-of-the-french/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/english-of-the-dead-website-of-the-french/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/english-of-the-dead-website-of-the-french/#commentsFiled under: ,

Childishly, we think it's kind of funny that new screens of an English training game for Japanese people were available on a French website. It illustrates the fact that the English learning is not what matters about English of the Dead. It's the zombie killing. It's enjoying the bizarro juxtaposition of edutainment and gore. It's about it being time for the dogs of the AMS to make a move.

That's why it is of interest to a website whose operators understand neither the Japanese nor the English text -- the awesomeness of this language game transcends actual language.

The box on the bottom screen is a handwriting interface, used for the default style of fighting. Bosses will mix it up, putting pre-printed multiple choices on the bottom screen. But before the bosses, your life depends on your penmanship.

JoystiqEnglish of the Dead from Website of the French originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Feb 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishenglish-of-the-deadsegatrainingTue, 19 Feb 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Website of the Dead now live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/09/website-of-the-dead-now-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/09/website-of-the-dead-now-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/09/website-of-the-dead-now-live/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Speaking of official websites: Sega has put up a teaser site for their absolutely enchanting zombie-shooting/English-training game The English of the Dead. It doesn't contain much in the way of screens, but it does have some wonderful chibi zombie art which is not to be missed.

And it's not like you're being cheated out of screens, because Famitsu totally put some up! It might be an academic distinction, but this appears to be a ported version of The Typing of the Dead rather than The House of the Dead 2, in that the axe-zombie guy has his red mallet from the typing game here, and the ranking display looks the same. It's kind of hard to pinpoint the source of a port when both Dreamcast games are the same game running on the same engine. Whichever game it started from, we have to admit that we're impressed with Sega's ability to shrink it down to the DS.

We want to learn English now.

JoystiqWebsite of the Dead now live originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishenglish-of-the-deadsegatrainingzombiesSat, 09 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Learn English like G did]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/learn-english-like-g-did/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/learn-english-like-g-did/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/learn-english-like-g-did/#commentsFiled under: ,

The latest issue of Famitsu has revealed something bizarre and magical from Sega: English of the Dead. Like Typing of the Dead, English is a conversion of House of the Dead 2 in which players must write words to defeat zombies. In English of the Dead, however, the zombies' words are in Japanese and players must translate them into English in order to score a kill. There's also a listening mode in which the zombies speak English, and boss battles with varying gameplay -- the Hydra, for example, is a multiple-choice translation test. This is a training game we could get very excited about, and we know English.

The most amazing thing about this game, to us, is that Sega ported House of the Dead 2 to the DS just to do this. Maybe they're trying to teach English to ... the people who wrote House of the Dead 2's script. They could use the help. Go, Kuarl (past the post break for the full scan)!

Continue reading Learn English like G did

JoystiqLearn English like G did originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishenglish-of-the-deadfamitsuhouse-of-the-deadsegatrainingWed, 06 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Snoopy teaches English, despite inability to speak out loud]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/13/snoopy-teaches-english-despite-inability-to-speak-out-loud/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/13/snoopy-teaches-english-despite-inability-to-speak-out-loud/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/13/snoopy-teaches-english-despite-inability-to-speak-out-loud/#commentsFiled under: ,

Talk about overcoming adversity: Snoopy, the lovable beagle from Peanuts, is getting his own English training game in Japan, despite being a dog. And despite the fact that the comic from which spinoff products would spin off no longer exists.

English Lessons With Snoopy isn't all learning words and phrases from a cartoon dog, however; the whole Peanuts gang, including chronically depressed Charlie Brown, anxiety-ridden Linus, and Lucy, who is just a jerk, will join in the learning fun. Who's more qualified to assist a dog in teaching language skills than five-year-olds?

The main game, "Event Mode," involves touching everything in a scene to see its English spelling and pronunciation. As you explore, you'll trigger animated events within the scene. There is also a selection of English training minigames, and a number of unlockable non-training minigames, including slide puzzles and a Charlie Brown dress-up game. Surprisingly, his clothing choices are not limited to hundreds of identical yellow shirts.

We are impressed by the size and breadth of the Japanese DS market. We still have yet to get one foreign-language program for the DS, and licensed cash-in language training games are already being released in Japan.

JoystiqSnoopy teaches English, despite inability to speak out loud originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Sep 2007 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englishenglish-lessons-with-snoopylanguagesnoopytrainingThu, 13 Sep 2007 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[More mallowy Marsh artwork]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/more-mallowy-marsh-artwork/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/more-mallowy-marsh-artwork/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/more-mallowy-marsh-artwork/#commentsFiled under: ,

Even without knowing a single thing about Maya and Marsh, we would've fallen in love with the two companions anyway, just based on the character designs for Eigo wo Taberu Fushigi na Ikimono Marsh (Mysterious English-Eating Animal Marsh). "Love" is a strong word, you might say. Well, so are our feelings for Dimple Entertainment's pet-sim/English-trainer.

We have some new art samples for the game in our gallery which you should really check out. The simple style is like a mix of Kurt Halsey romance and Kogepan charm; it's no wonder we can't resist it. So what if we'll never see this quirky title localized for the US? And who cares if its English isn't perfect? The minute we saw this scene of Marsh flopped next to its friend, Cocoa, our hearts were won over.

JoystiqMore mallowy Marsh artwork originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Aug 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dimpleentertainmentenglishmarshmicrovisionpetTue, 14 Aug 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TV-show-starring, plushie-appearing, and screenshot-posting Marsh]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/06/tv-show-starring-plushie-appearing-and-screenshot-posting-mars/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/06/tv-show-starring-plushie-appearing-and-screenshot-posting-mars/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/06/tv-show-starring-plushie-appearing-and-screenshot-posting-mars/#commentsFiled under: ,



Our favorite English-eating creature, Marsh, promoted its upcoming DS game recently with a week-long series of five-minute TV segments in Japan. Sisters Manami, Kinuyo, and Mikako posed an English problem everyday which Marsh would then try to answer. These interstitials served partly as commercials and partly as educational pieces to help viewers memorize English.

We would sell our souls to have one of those cute Marsh dolls that the sisters are posing with. We could probably make one of our own with a sharpie marker and a bag full of cotton balls, but, as we're sure all of you spoiled kids out there agree, it just wouldn't be the same! Don't look away! You know this to be true.

Developer Dimple Entertainment has posted screenshots for the pet-simulation/English-trainer title which you can see in our gallery below. Eigo wo Taberu Fushigi na Ikimono Marsh (Mysterious English-Eating Animal Marsh) hits stores in Japan this September 27th.

JoystiqTV-show-starring, plushie-appearing, and screenshot-posting Marsh originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Aug 2007 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dimpleenglishmarshmicrovisionMon, 06 Aug 2007 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Marsh: The cutest game you'll ever import]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/24/marsh-the-cutest-game-youll-ever-import/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/24/marsh-the-cutest-game-youll-ever-import/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/24/marsh-the-cutest-game-youll-ever-import/#commentsFiled under: ,

Maya, 25 years old and a short-haired brunette, works as a waitress at a coffee shop. Single, she lives alone in her apartment, or at least, she used to live alone in her apartment before an adorable, English-eating creature came to stay with her -- that's English words, not English people. Maya named her new roommate Marsh, taking inspiration from its marshmallow color and fluffy consistency.

Eigo wo Taberu Fushigi na Ikimono Marsh (Mysterious English-Eating Animal Marsh) plays like a cross between a virtual pet simulator and an educational game meant to strengthen English language skills. Using a series of menus to string words together, you can help Maya find out how Marsh is feeling, ask if Marsh wants to help clean the room, or enjoy other interactions with the mallowy critter.

Should you decide to import the title when it arrives in Japan this September 27th, you won't have to worry much about any language barriers, as Maya insists on communicating with Marsh in English. We're in love with the artwork we've seen so far for the game, so much so that we're willing to overlook that almost everything seems to have been ported from Microvision's cell phone game. Check past the post break for a three-minute trailer. Doesn't your heart just melt when you see Marsh playing with the toy airplane?

Continue reading Marsh: The cutest game you'll ever import

JoystiqMarsh: The cutest game you'll ever import originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jul 2007 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dimpleenglishmarshmicrovisionTue, 24 Jul 2007 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Friday Video: Revenant Wings soars out of E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/friday-video-revenant-wings-soars-out-of-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/friday-video-revenant-wings-soars-out-of-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/friday-video-revenant-wings-soars-out-of-e3/#commentsFiled under:

Screenshot offerings were slim on the Revenant Wings front when it came to E3 media, but this trailer makes up for it, despite the lower quality. Obviously, we're Final Fantasy fans -- could you tell from the flood of FF-themed posts that occasionally inundates the site? -- but this game, along with Ring of Fates, is looking pretty good, even when we try not to be biased.

Hey, speaking of, where was Ring of Fates? We could use some new media on that as well ....

Continue reading Friday Video: Revenant Wings soars out of E3

JoystiqFriday Video: Revenant Wings soars out of E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jul 2007 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e307englishffvffxiirevenant wingsRevenantWingsrtstrailervideoFri, 13 Jul 2007 18:10:00 EST<![CDATA[English-speaking gamers can hunt witches, too]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/english-speaking-gamers-can-hunt-witches-too/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/english-speaking-gamers-can-hunt-witches-too/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/english-speaking-gamers-can-hunt-witches-too/#commentsFiled under:


At least, we hope that the new English version of the Doki Doki Majo Shinpan site means we might see it in this part of the world sometime in the distant future. Though the site still only lists a Japanese date, there are at least two translated versions -- Chinese and this rough new English site -- so we'll keep our eyes peeled for any signs of a non-Japanese release.

[Thanks, Ricardo!]

JoystiqEnglish-speaking gamers can hunt witches, too originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jun 2007 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventuredoki dokidoki doki majo shinpanDokiDokiDokiDokiMajoShiEnglishsnkwebsitewitchThu, 07 Jun 2007 18:50:00 EST<![CDATA[The DS takes Kyoto, education style]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/the-ds-takes-kyoto-education-style/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/the-ds-takes-kyoto-education-style/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/the-ds-takes-kyoto-education-style/#commentsFiled under:

Last fall, we wrote about a pilot program with the DS that was being tested in a secondary school in Japan. Eight months later, it seems that program bore fruit, because now it's being implemented in all the upper schools in the city of Yawata in Kyoto, Japan. Using Chuugaku Eitango Target 1800 DS markedly improved students' English vocabulary -- they showed increases that averaged at 40%. Now we want our language games just that much more.

JoystiqThe DS takes Kyoto, education style originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 May 2007 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsedutainmentenglishjapankyotoschoolWed, 23 May 2007 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[English guide to Ouendan 2 menus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/18/english-guide-to-ouendan-2-menus/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/18/english-guide-to-ouendan-2-menus/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/18/english-guide-to-ouendan-2-menus/#commentsFiled under: ,

Among its other many virtues, Ouendan owed a lot of its overseas hype and success to its undaunting language barrier. Despite the menus and manga panels being filled with Japanese text, importers were able to follow the rhythm title's illustrated screwball plots and quickly pick up its self-explanatory controls. Ouendan's recently-released sequel, Moeru! Nekketsu Rhythm Damashii Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan 2, likewise requires little-to-no familiarity with the Japanese language in order to enjoy the game.

Even with these assurances though, there are still many import-shy gamers who hide behind their mothers' skirts at the sight of kanji characters. Fortunately for them, the Platformers has translated Ouendan 2's menu selections, providing a visual guide with an overlay of English text. Most of the buttons and icons are obvious, but having a quick reference like this would be useful for first-time importers. Now there's no excuse for avoiding the cheer squad!

JoystiqEnglish guide to Ouendan 2 menus originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 May 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsenglishimportimportsinisjapanesekanjilanguagenintendonintendodsouendanouendan2rhythmtranslatetranslationFri, 18 May 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Laws in translation: Playable, English Wright demo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/04/laws-in-translation-playable-english-wright-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/04/laws-in-translation-playable-english-wright-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/04/laws-in-translation-playable-english-wright-demo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

English-speaking fans of the Phoenix Wright series got a bit of bad news when they heard the Japanese version of the upcoming fourth installment would not feature native English-language support, as previous releases have. Capcom added insult to injury with a tantalizing web demo of the game that is similarly Japanese-only. Oh, how those foreigners love to taunt us and our lack of multilingual skills!

Fear not, though -- a band of intrepid Wright fans over at court-records.net have taken the case, translating the demo bit by bit and posting the results for the English-speaking world to play. The translation only goes a few minutes deep so far, but you can follow along with the progress on the project blog. This is probably as close as most of us will get to enjoying more Wright until the likely localization is released months from now, so enjoy it while it lasts.

[Via DSFanboy]

JoystiqLaws in translation: Playable, English Wright demo originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Apr 2007 16:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4demoDSenglishfan translationFanTranslationfourgyakuten saibanGyakutenSaibanjapanesePCphoenix wrightPhoenixWrighttranslationWed, 04 Apr 2007 16:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Gyakuten Saiban 4 hates English speakers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/gyakuten-saiban-4-hates-english-speakers/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/gyakuten-saiban-4-hates-english-speakers/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/gyakuten-saiban-4-hates-english-speakers/#commentsFiled under:

He's not as cool as Phoenix.Previous Japanese incarnations of our beloved Gyakuten Saiban series, a.k.a. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney, a.k.a. the greatest courtroom drama in the history of mankind, have included an English language option for those who wanted to get their fix early. In fact, savvy importers were able to play the superlative Phoenix Wright 2: Justice For All back in October, months before their blissfully ignorant counterparts.

Alas, it appears that the next installment of the series, Gyakuten Saiban 4, will not contain an English language option for importers. However, we would like to note that GS4, though the third title in the series to be released on the DS in Japan, is precluded by the currently GBA-only Gyakuten Saiban 3, which has not yet been localized in any form. According to preliminary reports, the storylines of GS3 and GS4 are not directly related (GS4 doesn't even star our man Phoenix), but you never know with those crafty writers.

For people not completely obsessed with Phoenix Wright, please rip out your own colon please ignore the above paragraph and simply know that you won't be able to import GS4 from Japan.

>.>

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqGyakuten Saiban 4 hates English speakers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Mar 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AceAllAttorneyEnglishForGyakutenHousukeImportJapaneseJusticeOdorokiPhoenixSaibanWrightTue, 27 Mar 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[More English Training helps you order a cheeseburger]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/25/more-english-training-helps-you-order-a-cheeseburger-right/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/25/more-english-training-helps-you-order-a-cheeseburger-right/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/25/more-english-training-helps-you-order-a-cheeseburger-right/#commentsFiled under:

The sequel to English Training: Have Fun Improving Your Skills -- also known as Eigo ga Nigate na Otona no DS Training: Eigo Zuke in Japan -- has a new commercial demonstrating its usefulness. The television spot shows a Japanese woman attempting to order lunch at an American fast food restaurant, only to find her effort stymied by the language barrier. The resulting burger is enough to leave everyone's mouths agape.

Set to hit Japanese stores later this week, More English Training is filled to the brim with over 400 "conversation situations" that will help users with everyday tasks like phone calls and customer/clerk dialogue. As the non-game's lighthearted commercial can attest, a little training can go a long way in making sure that your cheeseburger doesn't have any avocado in it.

JoystiqMore English Training helps you order a cheeseburger originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 25 Mar 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adburgercheeseburgercommercialdsdsliteenglishenglishtrainingenglishtraining2hamburgerjapanjapanesemoreenglishtrainingnintendonintendodstraintranslatetranslatortvSun, 25 Mar 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese are getting more English training on the DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/23/japanese-are-getting-more-english-training-on-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/23/japanese-are-getting-more-english-training-on-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/23/japanese-are-getting-more-english-training-on-the-ds/#commentsFiled under:

The Japanese must love their English Training titles as the region is set to be given yet another DS game focused at doing just that: training the public how to read and speak English.The previous installment, Eigo ga Nigate na Otona no DS Training Eigo Zuke (translates into DS Training For Adults Who Aren't Good at English: English Language Trainer), was one of the region's most successful "non-games," warranting a sequel (natch).

The sequel will come, bursting at the seams, with over 400 conversation situations (phone calls and customer/clerk dialogue) and even accent variations to help the user in a more practical sense. Dubbed Eigo ga Nigate na Otona no DS Training Motto Eigo Zuke, the sequel will release to the Japanese public on March 29th.

JoystiqJapanese are getting more English training on the DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Feb 2007 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsdsliteenglishenglishtrainerlitenintendonintendodsnintendodsliteFri, 23 Feb 2007 14:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Fan-translation of Kojima's Policenauts nears completion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/07/fan-translation-of-kojimas-policenauts-nears-completion/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/07/fan-translation-of-kojimas-policenauts-nears-completion/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/07/fan-translation-of-kojimas-policenauts-nears-completion/#commentsFiled under:

While most American gamers know Hideo Kojima as the man behind the blockbuster Metal Gear Solid franchise, the two games he worked on before breaking out with MGS are considered forgotten masterpieces. One, Snatcher, saw a limited U.S. release on the ill-fated Sega CD. The other, Policenauts, has never been available in English.

That seems poised to change, though, as Kojima fan-site Junker HQ has just announced the completion of a five-year project to translate the game's text. Only some technical work remains before the translation is released as a patch on the newly relaunched policenauts.net, currently targeted for the second half of 2007.

Theoretically, the patch will require a CD-R, an official Japanese version of the game and a modded PlayStation to work, but emulator-compatible ISOs are sure to leak out for the less scrupulous among us. While you wait, check out the game's Wikipedia entry to get some idea of what made the game so special.

[Via MetalGearsolid.org]

JoystiqFan-translation of Kojima's Policenauts nears completion originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Feb 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EnglishHideo KojimaHideoKojimaJapanKojimaKonamiMetal Gear SolidMetalGearSolidPolicenautstranslationWed, 07 Feb 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese hardware sales, 11 September - 17 September: English Sonnet edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/22/japanese-hardware-sales-11-september-17-september-english-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/22/japanese-hardware-sales-11-september-17-september-english-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/22/japanese-hardware-sales-11-september-17-september-english-so/#commentsFiled under:

Old school rap.
The DS Lite in Japan, a force high
atop its mighty throne, which cannot fall,
all others can do naught but look and sigh,
their sales so impeded by strongest wall.
For the Lite and the 'Two, arrows rise,
yet the PSP sinks to the abyss,
the downward red glare is blinding to eyes,
so vastly clear that something's amiss.
Wii will do well, if past numbers are true,
the people are ready for a new sun to shine,
and as Sony stumbles almost on cue,
Nintendo steps up and gives us a sign.
For the full story, simply check below,
though these figures may prompt a languid "so?"

- DS Lite: 134,885 21,045 (18.49%)
- PS2: 34,189 14,307 (71.96%)
- PSP: 26,995 2,146 (7.36%)
- GBA SP: 2,330 226 (10.74%)
- Game Boy Micro: 1,244 557 (30.93%)
- Xbox 360: 928 166 (15.17%)
- Gamecube: 630 66 (9.48%)
- DS Phat: 478 580 (54.82%)
- GBA: 27 14 (107.70%)
- Xbox: 7 2 (40.00%)

[Source: Media Create]

JoystiqJapanese hardware sales, 11 September - 17 September: English Sonnet edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Sep 2006 20:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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