Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Japanese, American import PSOne games coming to Euro PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/japanese-american-import-psone-games-coming-to-euro-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/japanese-american-import-psone-games-coming-to-euro-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/01/japanese-american-import-psone-games-coming-to-euro-psn/#comments The North American PSN features a PSOne Imports store, to sell previously Japan-exclusive games digitally. SCEE is expanding the idea for the European PS Store, announcing an initiative to publish US and Japanese games in that region. No titles have been announced yet.

Publishers of US/Japanese games can now apply to release their PSOne games on the European store, in an "as is" format -- meaning no additional localization. "This also means that if a PAL version of a title has been unable to pass QA in SCEE, but the NTSC version is already available on the PlayStation Store in SCEA or SCEJ," said SCEE PS Store rep Rich McGrath, "we can look at publishing that version instead." As long as it gets through the ratings boards, that is.

JoystiqJapanese, American import PSOne games coming to Euro PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeimportsplaystationplaystation-storeps3psnpsone-classicspspsonyMon, 01 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Come get free copies of this week's PSOne Imports]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/joyswag-come-get-free-copies-of-this-weeks-psone-imports/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/joyswag-come-get-free-copies-of-this-weeks-psone-imports/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/joyswag-come-get-free-copies-of-this-weeks-psone-imports/#comments Was your interest piqued by Rapid Angel and Yakiniku Bugyou, the two import PlayStation games released on PSN this week by MonkeyPaw Games? Would you, perhaps, like your very own copy of the Japanese BBQ shop simulator Yakiniku Bugyou, or the anime brawler Rapid Angel? Would that be something you'd be into?

Okay, we're going to stop speaking in questions now. We have 16 codes for each game, usable on the North American PSN, and we will place them on Facebook soon. If you want the best chance to win one of them, you should probably "Like" us to get an early alert when we add more. We'll also DM a couple to people who Like our page.

The codes are courtesy of publisher MonkeyPaw Games, who also tends to hand out codes through its @MonkeyPawGames Twitter account.

JoystiqJoyswag: Come get free copies of this week's PSOne Imports originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>importsjoyswagmonkeypaw-gamesplaystationps3psnrapid-angelyakiniku-bugyouFri, 08 Jul 2011 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Sailor Moon returns in Italian-exclusive DS game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/sailor-moon-returns-in-italian-exclusive-ds-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/sailor-moon-returns-in-italian-exclusive-ds-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/07/sailor-moon-returns-in-italian-exclusive-ds-game/#comments Breaking! Sailor Moon has washed up in Italy, years after her abrupt disappearance from US syndication. Following a new initiative to globalize Ms. Moon's brand of magical girl ... sailing (is it?), Namco Bandai Europe has announced the world's first Sailor Moon DS game -- and, in fact, only the second Sailor game to be released outside of Japan, ever: La luna splende, which, as you may have gathered from the title, will be exclusive to Italy.

La luna splende, planned for release this spring, looks to cash in on the Sailor Moon revival in Italy, where Toei Animation has been broadcasting a remastered version of the anime series since last March, according to Wikipedia. "Adventure, fantasy, fun, action ...," teases the Google translation of Namco Bandai's Italian announcement, "these are the watchwords for next spring." Hmmm ... maybe it's more convincing in Italian: Avventura, fantasia, divertimento, azione ... ecco le parole d'ordine per la prossima primavera!

JoystiqSailor Moon returns in Italian-exclusive DS game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Jan 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsimportsitalymagical-girlnamco-bandainintendoq1-2011release-datesailor-moonsailor-moon-la-luna-splendeFri, 07 Jan 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Money Idol Exchanger and Sonic Wings Special on the PSN import store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/money-idol-exchanger-and-sonic-wings-special-on-the-psn-import-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/money-idol-exchanger-and-sonic-wings-special-on-the-psn-import-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/16/money-idol-exchanger-and-sonic-wings-special-on-the-psn-import-s/#commentsMonkeyPaw Games is living up to its responsibility as the single publisher (so far) for the PSN Imports Store, dropping two interesting Japanese PlayStation games on the service today. In case you're not familiar with one or both -- a totally understandable happenstance -- here's what they are.

Money Idol Exchanger is a pretty weird (but not Cho Aniki weird) Neo Geo puzzle game ported to PlayStation, in which you link up on-screen coins to combine them into higher denominations: five 1s become a 5, etc., until you match two 500s and they vanish. Also, there are idol characters in it for some reason. And Sonic Wings Special is a single game combining all three Sonic Wings shmups (known as Aero Fighters in America).

The games are both available now for $5.99 each -- less for PlayStation Plus members.

Gallery: Sonic Wings Special

Gallery: Money Idol Exchanger

JoystiqMoney Idol Exchanger and Sonic Wings Special on the PSN import store originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>importsmoney-idol-exchangermonkeypaw-gamesplaystationps3psone-classicssonic-wings-specialTue, 16 Nov 2010 18:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony finally launches PS2 in Brazil (or, welcome to 2000!)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/sony-finally-launches-ps2-in-brazil-or-welcome-to-2000/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/sony-finally-launches-ps2-in-brazil-or-welcome-to-2000/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/sony-finally-launches-ps2-in-brazil-or-welcome-to-2000/#comments We don't live in Brazil, but from what we hear, it's not one of the most gamer-friendly places out there. Piracy runs rampant and whenever any kind of controversial game releases, citizens usually find their government won't let 'em play it. But, hey, things are kinda looking up!

Reader Renato wrote in to us saying the PS2 has finally officially released in Brazil and that consumers can get it from the Sony Style store now ... for the low, low price of 799 BRL (about 461 USD). That's right, Brazilians no longer need secure safe passage for emigrating consoles or pay ridiculous sums of money to third-party distributors and can instead pay ridiculous sums of money directly to Sony for a locally-supported PS2! Isn't that awesome?

[Thanks, Renato]
Congratulations to Serge808 on being the first to comment. You've been emailed a free Battlefield: Bad Company 2 beta code. All beta codes have been awarded. Click here, for more information on this giveaway. Official rules apply.

JoystiqSony finally launches PS2 in Brazil (or, welcome to 2000!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brazilimportimportspiracyplaystationplaystation-2ps2sonyThu, 19 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[From Software goes port crazy on PSP in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/from-software-goes-port-crazy-on-psp-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/from-software-goes-port-crazy-on-psp-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/from-software-goes-port-crazy-on-psp-in-japan/#comments
According to the latest issue of Famitsu (via PSPHyper), From Software plans to follow up its port of Tenchu: Shadow Assassins with some more PS2-to-PSP ports, so we hope you like games about silent, deadly ninjas, and gigantic, destructive mechs.

First, From Software plans to port Tenchu 3 (also known as Tenchu: Wrath of Heaven) to Sony's handheld as Tenchu 3 Portable in August in Japan. Following up that title will be Armored Core Silent Line Portable, destined for a November release, and Tenchu Korenai Portable, which is scheduled for a January 2010 release. Finally, From Software plans to finish off its porting spree with, yep, you guessed it, some more Armored Core, with Armored Core Last Raven Portable set to release in March 2010.

Oh, and one last game that is surprisingly neither Tenchu nor Armored Core -- Fu-un Shinsengumi: Bakumatsu-den Portable, which is planned for a December release. There's no word if any of these titles will be available outside of Japan, but we'll be sure to keep you posted.

JoystiqFrom Software goes port crazy on PSP in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 May 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armored-corearmored-core-last-ravenarmored-core-last-raven-portablearmored-core-silent-line-portablefamitsufu-un-shinsengumi-bakumatsu-den-portableimportsjapantenchutenchu-3tenchu-korenai-portabletenchu-wrath-of-heavenWed, 20 May 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Imports on VC this Monday: Bomberman '94, Detana!! Twinbee]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/imports-on-vc-this-monday-bomberman-94-detana-twinbee/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/imports-on-vc-this-monday-bomberman-94-detana-twinbee/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/imports-on-vc-this-monday-bomberman-94-detana-twinbee/#commentsAfter five months of total inactivity, during which time it focused on WiiWare, Hudson is returning to the Virtual Console this Monday. Just like the last set of TurboGrafx-16 games so long ago, the two games announced for next week are imports! This means, at the very least, that Hudson has not abandoned the Virtual Console.

You may be familiar with Bomberman '94 as the Genesis/Mega Drive Mega Bomberman. The original PC Engine version was only released in Japan. This one features kangaroos that Bomberman can ride (who can also take an explosion for him). Detana!! Twinbee is an absolutely beautiful vertical-scrolling cute-em-up from Konami, in a series rarely seen in North America.

Being imports, both games will cost 700 Wii Points. And being Hudson Virtual Console games, we can't be sure they'll actually show up on time.

[Via VC Reviews]

JoystiqImports on VC this Monday: Bomberman '94, Detana!! Twinbee originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bomberman-94detana-twinbeehudsonimportskonamivirtual-consoleFri, 20 Mar 2009 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese gamers eager for Resident Evil: Long Line]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/japanese-gamers-eager-for-resident-evil-long-line/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/japanese-gamers-eager-for-resident-evil-long-line/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/japanese-gamers-eager-for-resident-evil-long-line/#comments
As Famitsu shows us, Japanese gamers were anxious to get their hands on Capcom's latest run-and-gun shooter entry in the survival-horror genre, Resident Evil 5, lining up before stores opened early in the morning. In fact, some of them even purchased the Xbox 360 bundle, as evidenced here.

Of course, most of the individuals picking up Capcom's latest were young men, but Famitsu said some females were getting in on the action as well. Sadly, Famitsu doesn't say which version of RE5 sold better, so the fanboys will have to stick with their delusions as argument topics for now.

Gallery: Resident Evil 5 (02/05/09)

JoystiqJapanese gamers eager for Resident Evil: Long Line originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomimportimportsjapanMicrosoftresident-evil-5Xbox-360Fri, 06 Mar 2009 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BlazBlue throws a beatdown on PS3, Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/blazblue-throws-a-beatdown-on-ps3-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/blazblue-throws-a-beatdown-on-ps3-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/05/blazblue-throws-a-beatdown-on-ps3-xbox-360/#comments Arc System Works, the folks behind popular 2D fighting franchise Guilty Gear, are planning on bringing their high-def 2D fighter, BlazBlue, to the Xbox 360 and PS3 IGN reports. Currently only available in Japanese arcades, the title is being ported to home consoles in the region, with release aimed at this summer.

Notable additions to the console port include a story mode, with individual stories for each character available. This story mode will offer branching storylines based on the battles you win, as well as the choices you make while playing. Director Toshimichi Mori says the story mode easily offers 30 hours of gameplay.

On top of that, gamers can look forward to online support for battling folks around the globe, as well as DLC, which Arc has planned, yet no specific items were mentioned. The console version of the game will also provide all characters with Astral Heat special moves, which were only given to a select few boss characters in the arcade version of the game.

JoystiqBlazBlue throws a beatdown on PS3, Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2dAksys-Gamesarc-system-worksblazblueBlazBlue-Calamity-Triggerfighterfightingguilty-gearimportimportsjapanMicrosoftXbox-360Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo: No plans to bring Classic Controller Pro to U.S.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/nintendo-no-plans-to-bring-classic-controller-pro-to-u-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/nintendo-no-plans-to-bring-classic-controller-pro-to-u-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/03/nintendo-no-plans-to-bring-classic-controller-pro-to-u-s/#comments
Well folks, clear some room, because your hopes and dreams are about to come crashing down ... now: Nintendo has no plans to bring the Classic Controller Pro to the United States. In fact, that's exactly what a kind Nintendo spokesperson said: "At this time, we do not have any plans to launch the Classic Controller Pro in the United States."

Of course, that doesn't mean you can't have one, if you really want it that badly.

JoystiqNintendo: No plans to bring Classic Controller Pro to U.S. originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic-controllerclassic-controller-proimportimportsjapanperipheralsTue, 03 Mar 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Street Fighter Online DLC includes 'Obama' skin]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/05/street-fighter-online-dlc-includes-obama-skin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/05/street-fighter-online-dlc-includes-obama-skin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/05/street-fighter-online-dlc-includes-obama-skin/#comments
Online fighter Street Fighter Online: Mouse Generation is offering up some goodies in time for Valentine's Day. First up are some chocolate avatars for use in-game. We're not sure why you'd want one, but hey, that's your business.

More interesting is a piece of DLC that provides players with an in-game character that bares resemblance to current U.S. President, Barack Obama. Titled the "YES WE CAN!" pack, this bit of DLC unlocks several different skins for fighters, including the already mentioned Obama clone. We'd ask about a John McCain skin as well, but that guy has already been beat up enough.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqStreet Fighter Online DLC includes 'Obama' skin originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barack-obamadlcfighterimportsjapanobamastreet-fighterstreet-fighter-onlineThu, 05 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warning: Space Invaders Extreme 2 screens approaching]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/warning-space-invaders-extreme-2-screens-approaching/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/warning-space-invaders-extreme-2-screens-approaching/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/warning-space-invaders-extreme-2-screens-approaching/#commentsFinally! After NCSX pretty much confirmed its existence, Famitsu has come to our rescue with some new details and screens for Space Invaders Extreme 2. We know the game's power-up system is getting the once-over and being fleshed out a bit more in the sequel, and that a Bingo Fever mode is being added. Considering how great the first game was, you can bet we're extra excited about this.

Hit up Famitsu here to check out the screens and details. Or click here if you want the Japanese translated for you (badly).

JoystiqWarning: Space Invaders Extreme 2 screens approaching originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>famitsuimportsscreensspace-invadersspace-invaders-extreme-2square-enixtaitoFri, 30 Jan 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hudson brings Fishing Master to the DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/hudson-brings-fishing-master-to-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/hudson-brings-fishing-master-to-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/30/hudson-brings-fishing-master-to-the-ds/#commentsHudson's Fishing Master World Tour on Wii caught our eye, and now the game is being adapted for the DS, exchanging motion-based controls for the stylus and touch screen. As big fans of Animal Crossing: Wild World, we've enjoyed quite a bit of fishing on our DS. Although AC's fishing is a bit more on the tranquil side, Hudson's offering looks to be a bit more intense. Don't worry: Hudson presents Super X-Treme Bass Fishing sponsored by Mountain Dew this is not.

Hudson's Fishing Master DS (Mezase! Tsuri Master DS) is due for release in Japan on April 23.

JoystiqHudson brings Fishing Master to the DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Jan 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fishingfishing-masterfishing-master-dshudsonimportsjapanMezase-Tsuri-MasterMezase-Tsuri-Master-DSsportsstylusFri, 30 Jan 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Famicom Classic Controller available at Play Asia [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/super-famicom-classic-controller-available-at-play-asia/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/super-famicom-classic-controller-available-at-play-asia/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/super-famicom-classic-controller-available-at-play-asia/#commentsFiled under: ,


Update: Wow, that was fast. The controller is sold out. Uh, people must have way more money than we do. Send us one, plz?

If you're looking for more of an authentic experience when playing those Virtual Console games, then know that Play Asia is now allowing folks to order the Super Famicom Classic Controller. Of course, if you want that authentic experience, you're going to have to pay for it. The controller is going for a whopping $70 at the site. Frankly, we'd advise tracking down a SNES controller and doing one of those wireless hacks to the thing. It's got to cost a lot less than seventy freakin' dollars.


[Thanks, MoFro!]

JoystiqSuper Famicom Classic Controller available at Play Asia [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classic-controllerfamicomimportimportsjapansuper-famicomFri, 21 Nov 2008 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Dissidia vids: Squall and Zidane in EX Mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/dissidia-vids-squall-and-zidane-in-ex-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/dissidia-vids-squall-and-zidane-in-ex-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/dissidia-vids-squall-and-zidane-in-ex-mode/#commentsFiled under:

Fan service is a good thing when it's done to enhance the gaming experience and not just make up for a lack of substance. In the case of Dissidia: Final Fantasy, there are a lot of solid, new gameplay elements which fit in well with the dazzling flash that Final Fantasy is known for -- so it's got the best of both worlds.

Nothing sums this merging of innovation and style more than the EX Mode. You'll see why when you watch the embedded video above when Squall and Zidane show off the Renzokuken and Trance, respectively. The timed-input events, and the visceral, swift action makes Dissidia look like the most exciting PSP title this (Japanese) holiday season. It makes us sad to remember that a North American release has yet to be heard of.

JoystiqDissidia vids: Squall and Zidane in EX Mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dissidiafinal-fantasyimportssquare-enixThu, 06 Nov 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: The most important import]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/wii-warm-up-the-most-important-import/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/wii-warm-up-the-most-important-import/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/09/wii-warm-up-the-most-important-import/#commentsFiled under:


After having some quality time with a pair of imports yesterday, we got to wondering: what imports would you want to be able to download from the Virtual Console? With generations of consoles supported by the service, there's plenty of old school imports to ponder downloading. So, what will it be? We've already gotten some great imports in the past (Sin & Punishment, Super Mario Bros: The Lost Levels), but what would you like to be able to play in the future?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: The most important import originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cho-anikifinal-soldierimportssin-and-punishmentTue, 09 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 5: Gaming in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/top-5-gaming-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/top-5-gaming-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/top-5-gaming-in-japan/#commentsFiled under:

Musicians have Vienna. Catholics have the Vatican. And gamers have Japan. While many significant contributions to the world of gaming have come from outside the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan is the unassailable fountainhead of modern video gaming. It's the birth and workplace of gaming giants such as Hideo Kojima, Shinji Mikami, Yuji Naka, and probably others. To say that Japan is a place that hardcore gamers need to check out is an understatement at best.

Recently, I took a week to visit my brother who teaches English at a Japanese university near Nagoya. Hundreds of thousands of words could be used to describe the wonderful food, the beautiful temples, and the unique culture of the country. But being a life-long gamer, I paid special attention to the distinct connection between the country and the gaming scene we all know and love. For the Top 5, I usually come up with a topic, then list the top five items for that topic in order. For this edition, it was truly difficult to narrow it down to only five. With that in mind, here's my best attempt at listing the Top 5 gaming elements of my time in Japan.




The Top 5 is a weekly feature that provides us with a forum to share our opinions on various aspects of the video game culture, and provides you with a forum to tell us how wrong we are. To further voice your opinions, check out What Are You Playing?, submit a vote in the Wii Fanboy Poll, and take part in the daily discussions of Wii Warm Up.

JoystiqTop 5: Gaming in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Aug 2008 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadeimportsjapanjoystiqfeatureskyotomario-kart-arcade-gpnintendonintendodsnintendowiiregion-freestreet-fighter-ivtop-5virtualconsoleMon, 18 Aug 2008 12:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Items of Import: Let's Enroleplaying Games!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/24/items-of-import-lets-enroleplaying-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/24/items-of-import-lets-enroleplaying-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/24/items-of-import-lets-enroleplaying-games/#commentsFiled under: , ,



After a lot of deliberation, Joe Player finally decided to try importing a game from Japan. It was nerve-wracking, clicking through to an online retailer and perusing the list of unusual titles. With fingers poised above the keyboard, he hesitated -- would his credit card information be safe? Should he choose express post? How long would delivery take?

He was worried -- did he make the right choice? Was his Japanese sufficient to play the game? He'd learned hiragana in classes, and picked up some ninja phrases from fansubbed episodes of Naruto. Would it be enough? He would soon find out.

Welcome to the inaugural edition of Items of Import, a new weekly feature that will make you feel a little less worried about your import choices. Sometimes playing a game in Japanese can seem like a daunting task. But make no mistake: Items of Import is here to nurture you, guide you, and teach you the ways of Japanese games. Keep checking this space for your dose of import impressions and language lessons.


COMMENT NEXT >>

JoystiqItems of Import: Let's Enroleplaying Games! originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Jul 2008 17:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsds litedsliteimportimportsjapanjapanesejoystiqfeaturesrpgThu, 24 Jul 2008 17:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Deal: 25% off imports at Play-Asia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/deal-25-off-imports-at-play-asia/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/deal-25-off-imports-at-play-asia/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/deal-25-off-imports-at-play-asia/#commentsFiled under:


Both the PSP and PS3 have incredibly generous region settings, which allow you to play games from all around the world -- no mod chips required. Importing games for both of Sony's platforms is easy, and Play-Asia's sale makes it even easier. Right now, they're providing 25% off all of their in-stock items. Here's our recommendations:

PS3
PSP

JoystiqDeal: 25% off imports at Play-Asia originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>importimportsplay-asiaSat, 12 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Deal: 25% off imports at Play-Asia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/deal-25-off-imports-at-play-asia/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/deal-25-off-imports-at-play-asia/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/12/deal-25-off-imports-at-play-asia/#commentsFiled under:


Both the PSP and PS3 have incredibly generous region settings, which allow you to play games from all around the world -- no mod chips required. Importing games for both of Sony's platforms is easy, and Play-Asia's sale makes it even easier. Right now, they're providing 25% off all of their in-stock items. Here's our recommendations:

PS3
PSP

JoystiqDeal: 25% off imports at Play-Asia originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealdealofthedayimportimportsplay-asiaSat, 12 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Make your PSP waterproof with Aquatalk]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/23/make-your-psp-waterproof-with-aquatalk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/23/make-your-psp-waterproof-with-aquatalk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/23/make-your-psp-waterproof-with-aquatalk/#commentsFiled under: ,

Ever had an urge to play your PSP while in the shower or taking a bath? Yeah, us too, but we all know it's probably not a safe idea having electronic devices so close to the water. There is one solution though, and that would be a bag series called Aquatalk.

While Aquatalk looks like a slightly upgraded ziplock baggy, it's supposed to keep your PSP waterproof. It should do so because it's covered in four layers of protective coating and has a secure anti-leak zipper seal. At 740 yen a bag (roughly seven dollars and a chunk of change), it better deliver. The bag is good for both fat and slim PSPs.

It's a pretty cool concept being able to get some gaming done while making one's self clean in the bath. We might actually give this one a try ... well, only if someone wants to lend us their PSP for an experiment. One warning though, we probably wouldn't recommend this for scuba diving; you wouldn't want to get distracted playing Loco Roco when a shark comes to bite your head off.

JoystiqMake your PSP waterproof with Aquatalk originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 23 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>importspspSun, 23 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Friday Video: Game creation is our sanctuary in life]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/friday-video-game-creation-is-our-sanctuary-in-life/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/friday-video-game-creation-is-our-sanctuary-in-life/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/friday-video-game-creation-is-our-sanctuary-in-life/#commentsFiled under:


To celebrate Sega's announcement that more imports were coming to our Virtual Console, we thought we'd feature the Sega-est, import-est thing we could possibly think of: the Sega-themed sim/RPG/shooter Segagaga. Sure, it's a Dreamcast game and not a Genesis game, but it is all about the love of Sega.

Segagaga is a game in which Sega fans are put in charge of the failing company and work along with programmers and lots of Sega characters to save it. When the game came out, Sega was doing dandy, but, well, now it's a little ironic. However, the whole thing is a giant love letter from Sega to itself, and it stands as the Sega-est thing in the universe. If you don't feel a little bit of Sega love in your heart, then ... we won't say anything about you, because some of you will deny it in comments anyway just to be contrary, and we don't want to give you any ammo.

The intro movie is posted above; check after the break for a couple of different versions of the inspiring theme song!

Continue reading Friday Video: Game creation is our sanctuary in life

JoystiqFriday Video: Game creation is our sanctuary in life originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Nov 2007 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>genesisimportssegasegagagaFri, 09 Nov 2007 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[IMPORTSHOCK! More Sega imports on the way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/importshock-more-sega-imports-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/importshock-more-sega-imports-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/importshock-more-sega-imports-on-the-way/#commentsFiled under: , ,


It seems that Sega managed to get a satisfactory amount of attention for releasing Alien Soldier, despite putting it out on the same day as Super Mario Bros. 3. They announced that they're going to continue releasing import games on the American Virtual Console (at the same premium price, of course). Maybe now we'll see stuff that is completely new to the U.S.; Alien Soldier and Golden Axe III were both Sega Channel games.

This is wonderful news! Slowly, companies are getting the idea that the Virtual Console is good for more than just "greatest hits" -- that it allows players to discover games they hadn't, or couldn't have, played before. Too bad the import Mega Drive game we really want, Treasure's Yuu Yuu Hakusho Makyou Toitsusen, has a license that will make worldwide release difficult, if not impossible.

JoystiqIMPORTSHOCK! More Sega imports on the way originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Nov 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alien-soldiergenesisimportssegaWed, 07 Nov 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii update renders Freeloader useless]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/wii-update-renders-freeloader-useless/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/wii-update-renders-freeloader-useless/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/wii-update-renders-freeloader-useless/#commentsFiled under: , ,

And don't expect Nintendo to do anything about it. The recently released and pointedly punctual Wii system update 3 added limited USB keyboard support but removed the system's ability to run Datel's Freeloader discs. Originally intended for Nintendo's previous console, the Freeloader would (usually) allow the user to play Gamecube games from other regions, an ideal tool to help pass the time between those lethargic localizations. Nintendo told Eurogamer that due to the Freeloader's status as an unofficial product, there was nothing they could do to "fix" the problem.

If you still hope to play your imported Gamecube titles, you can either dig your old system out of the closet or stare at that new Wii clock while you wait for Nintendo to abandon its draconian console region encoding policies.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqWii update renders Freeloader useless originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Aug 2007 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FreeloaderGameCubeImportsRegionsWiiWiiSystemUpdateWed, 08 Aug 2007 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Insect Wars preorder papercraft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/insect-wars-preorder-papercraft/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/insect-wars-preorder-papercraft/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/insect-wars-preorder-papercraft/#commentsFiled under: ,

Now that Kanji Dragon's release is behind us, it's time for us to set our sights on the next Success Corp. release that we plan to obsess over: Insect Wars (Konchuu Wars). The latest update on the tactical RPG's site shows off a papercraft model of a horned beetle -- just one of the dozens of customizable units in your army of mechanized bugs -- equipped with an intimidating cannon on its back. This will presumably be offered as a limited gift to gamers who preorder Insect Wars in Japan. Scurry past the post break for a better look at the paper replica.

Continue reading Insect Wars preorder papercraft

JoystiqInsect Wars preorder papercraft originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jul 2007 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>importimportsinsectinsect warsinsectsInsectWarsknochuu warsKnochuuWarskonchuumodelmodelspaperpapercraftpre orderpreordersrpgsuccesssuccess corpSuccessCorptacticaltactical rpgTacticalRpgTue, 17 Jul 2007 10:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Gloss Silver and Metallic Pink DS Lites now available for import]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/gloss-silver-and-metallic-pink-ds-lites-now-available-for-import/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/gloss-silver-and-metallic-pink-ds-lites-now-available-for-import/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/gloss-silver-and-metallic-pink-ds-lites-now-available-for-import/#commentsFiled under:

The new DS Lites have been released in Japan and have shown up on import shopping sites. That's right, for only $179 + shipping, you can have a DS Lite in one of the two new Japan-exclusive colors! You have your choice of Like the Regular DS Phat Color but on a Lite, or Like the Pink One but Shinier.

Sure, you pay a premium, but it may be worth it to have a DS that looks somewhat different from other DS's in the immediate area. Depends on how you feel about the new colors! What do you think-- Gloss Silver or Gross Silver? Metallic Pink or Me-tacky Pink?

JoystiqGloss Silver and Metallic Pink DS Lites now available for import originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jul 2007 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>colords liteDsLiteglossgloss silverGlossSilverimportsmetallicmetallic pinkMetallicPinkpinkplay asiaPlayAsiasilverFri, 13 Jul 2007 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Insect Wars is the bee's knees]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/insect-wars-is-the-bees-knees/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/insect-wars-is-the-bees-knees/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/insect-wars-is-the-bees-knees/#commentsFiled under: ,

We shooed Insect Wars (Konchuu Wars) away when the game's beetle-filled screenshots first flew into our periphery, believing the bug to be an uninspired pest. "Go away," we said, "and bother us no more." In our defense, language barriers kept us from understanding what the Success Corp. title was trying to communicate with its antennae and movement patterns.

Having studied its habits, we found that the game isn't a Mushiking clone as we'd originally assumed, but a tactical RPG where you command an army of customizable, mechanized insects. Our mouths were agape, monocles falling from our faces when the truth was revealed. Below is a sampling of Insect Wars' creepy crawlers:
  • a rifle-mounted praying mantis with buzzsaws -- my god, buzzsaws! -- for arms
  • a lightning bug that terrorizes foes with its beam cannon tail
  • a heavily-armored, treaded snail (pictured above) which acts as a transport for other units while healing them
Not since Puzzle Quest have our loins ached for such a game. Insect Wars swarms into Japanese stores this August 2nd. Head past the post break for a minute-long trailer.

Continue reading Insect Wars is the bee's knees

JoystiqInsect Wars is the bee's knees originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jul 2007 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugsdsimportimportsinsectinsect warsinsectsInsectWarskonchuukonchuu warsKonchuuWarsnintendonintendo dsNintendoDssuccesssuccess corpSuccessCorpvideovideosMon, 09 Jul 2007 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Daily: Import dreams]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/ds-daily-import-dreams/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/ds-daily-import-dreams/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/ds-daily-import-dreams/#commentsFiled under: ,

There are so many games for the DS in Japan -- a veritable flood each week, it seems -- that they couldn't all possibly make it outside the islands. To be fair, we probably wouldn't be interested in all of them, but sometimes there are great games that we just don't get. For those who are willing to import, that's fine, and luckily, the DS is region-free. But not everyone can manage it, or can handle even the lightest foreign text. So we're curious: what non-English language game do you want localized as soon as possible? Even if there's no chance of it ever happening, we want to know what you dream about.

JoystiqDS Daily: Import dreams originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsdimportsjapanlocalizationFri, 06 Jul 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Love Cat Life shows love for dogs, too]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/love-cat-life-shows-love-for-dogs-too/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/love-cat-life-shows-love-for-dogs-too/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/love-cat-life-shows-love-for-dogs-too/#commentsFiled under:

Specifically, Nintendogs. And more specifically, the cash generated by Nintendogs. Forgive us for being cynical, but Love Cat Life does look exceedingly familiar. But for our (hypothetical) pet simulator money, Love Cat Life wins over Nintendo's masterpiece, for mostly hilarious reasons:
  • Simulated litterboxes
  • Riding a little cat-sized truck over a ramp
  • Meowing music game!
We started off being sarcastic, but we just convinced ourselves. It was the music game that did it.

JoystiqLove Cat Life shows love for dogs, too originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jun 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>catcatsdsds liteDsLiteimportskittenlifelitelovelove cat lifeLoveCatLifenintendonintendo dsNintendoDsnintendogspetThu, 28 Jun 2007 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Import Kururin Paradise for only $10]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/import-kururin-paradise-for-only-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/import-kururin-paradise-for-only-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/import-kururin-paradise-for-only-10/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Long hailed as one of the GBA's best puzzle titles, Kururin Paradise never landed on North American shores, preferring instead to limit its release to Japan. Play-Asia has taken pity on our Kururin-less souls, listing the 8ing-developed game at a dicount price of $9.90! This deal lasts until next Tuesday, so you'll have more than enough time to collect change on the sidewalk for this purchase. Pilot your spinning craft past the post break for a video preview of this simple-but-addictive game!

Continue reading Import Kururin Paradise for only $10

JoystiqImport Kururin Paradise for only $10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8ingbargainbargainsdealdealsdiscountdiscountseightingeighting raizingEightingRaizinggbaimportimportskurukururinKururin ParadiseKururinParadisenintendonintendo gbaNintendoGbaplay asiaPlayAsiaraizingsalesalesTue, 19 Jun 2007 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Translate! Ultimate Stars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/11/translate-ultimate-stars/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/11/translate-ultimate-stars/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/11/translate-ultimate-stars/#commentsFiled under:


Jump Ultimate Stars is one of the most popular DS games with importers. Since it's a fighting game, it's not a huge deal to play Jump without knowing Japanese, but there are a lot of missions that may be difficult to figure out. Also, the game actually tries to tell a story, which is rare for a fighting game.

Abel Tamayo wrote in to tell us about a wonderful wiki project he's managing, called, appropriately enough, the Jump Ultimate Stars Translation Project. We've seen amazing fan translation projects from single translators, but never a project done in a collaborative wiki format. It's a great idea, one that will allow tragically busy people to help out. If you know Japanese, why not sign up? Translating a fighting game-- that's another rarity. SNK never bothered to do it.

JoystiqTranslate! Ultimate Stars originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jun 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaidsengrishimportsjapanesejastpjumpjump ultimate starsJumpUltimateStarsnintendonintendo dsNintendoDssnkstarstranslatetranslationultimatewikiMon, 11 Jun 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Decent sale on imports at Renchi]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/decent-sale-on-imports-at-renchi/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/decent-sale-on-imports-at-renchi/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/decent-sale-on-imports-at-renchi/#commentsFiled under: ,

We love region-free consoles! Not only does it allow us to play games that never get released in the US, but it also gives us freedom to choose the cheapest version of worldwide-release games. Renchi.com has marked down a load of DS games, and there's plenty of stuff for US gamers to enjoy.

First, the Japanese versions of US games. You can get Yoshi Touch & Go (Catch! Touch! Yoshi!), Mega Man ZX (Rockman ZX), Star Fox Command, the just-released Honeycomb Beat, and a few others for $10. If you want a uniquely Japanese experience, there's a bunch of stuff including Mawasunda!!, a lot of miscellaneous non-games and puzzle games (including an amusing-looking coloring game), and a nice selection of D3's Simple Series stuff. Stock is rapidly diminishing, so go browse right now.

[Thanks, joe!]

JoystiqDecent sale on imports at Renchi originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beatdsds liteDsLitehoney comb beathoneycombHoneyCombBeatimportimportslitemawasundamegamannintendonintendo dsNintendoDsrenchirockmansalestar foxStarFoxyoshizxTue, 05 Jun 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Wii Freeloader this month?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/04/rumor-wii-freeloader-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/04/rumor-wii-freeloader-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/04/rumor-wii-freeloader-this-month/#commentsFiled under: ,

This particular bit of news concerns PAL gamers, but-- if it's true-- we can all benefit soon enough. A listing has popped up for a Wii Freeloader on an Italian shopping site called YouToo.it. The listing says that it will be released on June 30 for € 24,99 ($33.59), but that the price and release date are subject to change. In addition, that box looks exceptionally mocked-up, so take this whole thing with a grain of salt.

A NeoGAFfer named radioheadrule83 then contacted Datel's technical department to try to get more information. The Datel rep told him that "Its my understanding that there is a product on the way that will work for Wii games as well, yes" but also that "There's no release date as yet". We may yet enter a world in which we can all play games when they're released.

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqRumor: Wii Freeloader this month? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Jun 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>datelfreeloaderimportsnintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiirumorswiiMon, 04 Jun 2007 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Kanji Dragon scheduled to kick Akihabara's ass]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/29/kanji-dragon-scheduled-to-kick-akihabaras-ass/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/29/kanji-dragon-scheduled-to-kick-akihabaras-ass/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/29/kanji-dragon-scheduled-to-kick-akihabaras-ass/#commentsFiled under: ,

We're well aware that the gaming press couldn't care less about Hissatsu Kung Fu: Kanji Dragon; interest for a kanji-training beat 'em up is niche at best, and to be honest, this whole kung fu theatre advertising push is a bit silly. But are we going to let that stop us from inundating you with every single scrap of Kanji Dragon news that we come across? Of course not!

Success Corp. will be celebrating the educational brawler's June 7th release with a special event this Sunday at Akihabara's Sofmap amusement complex. Attendees will be able to play the game and will even receive a limited edition T-shirt if they pre-order a copy. The title's fumbling mascot will also be making an appearance, handing out Kanji Dragon Director's Cut DVDs. Make sure to check past the post break for a larger version of the disc's explosive cover.

To say we're disheartened by the fact that we won't be able to attend is an understatement. We wept bitter tears as we read the press release's jumbled Google translation, yelling out in grief when we learned that we'd miss out on free souvenirs. Rod Stewart poignantly sang "So Far Away" as a montage of us drowning our sorrows with too many drinks and loose women played right before fading to black.

Continue reading Kanji Dragon scheduled to kick Akihabara's ass

JoystiqKanji Dragon scheduled to kick Akihabara's ass originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 May 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Akihabaradragondsdvdimportskanjikanji dragonkanji kenKanjiDragonKanjiKenkung fukungfunintendonintendo dsnintendodsshirtsuccesssuccess corpSuccessCorpt shirtt-shirttshirtTue, 29 May 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Marugoto Teikoku Hotel provides accommodations for your DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/marugoto-teikoku-hotel-provides-accommodations-for-your-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/marugoto-teikoku-hotel-provides-accommodations-for-your-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/marugoto-teikoku-hotel-provides-accommodations-for-your-ds/#commentsFiled under:


Shaberu! DS O-Ryouri Navi Marugoto Teikoku Hotel (Talking DS Cooking Navi Marugoto Teikoku Hotel), the cooking tool based on recipes from the upscale hotel, is headed to Japan on June 21. When it comes out, e-gourmands will have an option as to how they'd like their service: with or without pouch.

For 4,280 yen, Japanese consumers can buy the basic program, but for only 1,000 yen more (about $8.25) they can add this Koei-branded DS case. What's $8 to someone who eats at the Marugoto Teikoku Hotel? Probably a roll or something.

JoystiqMarugoto Teikoku Hotel provides accommodations for your DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2007 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casecookingcooking naviCookingNavidshotelimportskoeimarugotonavinintendonintendo dsNintendoDsnongamesThu, 24 May 2007 12:40:00 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[DS Daily: OUENDAAAAAAN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/17/ds-daily-ouendaaaaaan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/17/ds-daily-ouendaaaaaan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/17/ds-daily-ouendaaaaaan/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's out, and we don't have it. It kinda hurts. Some bloggers seem to have gotten their hands on a copy, so we know it's possible that one of our faithful readers has Moeru! Nekketsu Rhythm Damashii Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan 2! We need to live vicariously through you, hypothetical reader! We need your impressions!

Those of you who don't have it or just don't have it yet: do you have one on the way? Do you consider this the biggest game release of the year? Or are you holding out for a US release? Or an Elite Beat Agents 2: Beat Harder? Personally, we'll take any and all iNiS music releases and will be importing Ouendan 2 as soon as finances allow.

JoystiqDS Daily: OUENDAAAAAAN originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 May 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsds liteDsLiteimportimportslitemusicnintendonintendo dsNintendoDsosuouendanrhythmtatakaeThu, 17 May 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Picross DS bound for the US, one way or another]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/11/picross-ds-bound-for-the-us-one-way-or-another/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/11/picross-ds-bound-for-the-us-one-way-or-another/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/11/picross-ds-bound-for-the-us-one-way-or-another/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Relations between the US and Europe have been strained enough over uncompromising war policies and disparate diplomats, but Nintendo's decision to localize Picross DS for our Atlantic opposites while ignoring North America's pleas threatens to escalate the conflict even further. Already, protesters are rallying on embassy steps, stomping on french fries and singing hymns of freedom.

Hoping to avert an international crisis, GameStop has put up a Picross title on its site for $19.99, announcing a July 31st stateside release for the logic puzzler. For some, that distant date is unacceptable. Others refuse to even believe that it's the same game and not a generic product. To appease their ire, online shop SendIt has agreed to offer the UK version of the game at a discount. Picross DS has a £14.89 (approximately $30.00) listing on the site, and CAG forumers have reported paying $32.87 after US shipping and handling charges. As far as import prices go, that's quite a deal!

[Via CAG]

JoystiqPicross DS bound for the US, one way or another originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 May 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dseuropegamestopimportimportslocalizationlocalizenintendonintendodspicrosspicrossdssenditFri, 11 May 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Explosions! Car crashes! Kanji Ken!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/explosions-car-crashes-kanji-ken/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/explosions-car-crashes-kanji-ken/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/explosions-car-crashes-kanji-ken/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mentioning Kanji Ken earlier this afternoon prompted us to make a beeline for the Japanese game's official site, scrounging its pages for any new developments on the kanji trainer/brawler. Amidst a pile of nonsensical videos, we were able to unearth a pair of magnificent downloadable wallpapers of incalculable value. Just seeing them will blow your mind right out your ass.

Keeping with the game's kung-fu theatre theme, the desktop decorations parody martial arts movie posters with cliches like city skylines in the background and uh... a man screaming for no visible reason. Needless to say, they're every bit as zany as Kanji Ken's cover art! Sweep kick right through the post break for the new trailers and previews of the wallpapers.

Continue reading Explosions! Car crashes! Kanji Ken!

JoystiqExplosions! Car crashes! Kanji Ken! originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 May 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>desktopdshiraganaimportskanjikanji kenKanjiKenkungfumartialartsnintendonintendodsposterssuccesssuccesscosuccesscorpwallpapersTue, 08 May 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blood on the dance floor]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/blood-on-the-dance-floor/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/blood-on-the-dance-floor/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/blood-on-the-dance-floor/#commentsFiled under: ,

As you've probably picked up from our coverage of Puzzle Quest's RPG/Bejewled mix and Kanji Ken's beat-em up training game, we are in love with titles that mix genres in new ways. Banpresto's Custom Beat Battle: Draglade does just that, weaving together rhythm, fighting, and RPG elements into an exciting pattern.

You customize and arm your fighters with beat combos, pulling off special attacks by timing button presses with a meter that displays a rhythm sequence. You can also level up your characters and buy items for them at shops. Punch and kick your way past the post break for some Custom Beat Battle: Draglade trailers.

Now that we've got rhythm fighting, rhythm action, and rhythm platforming on our handheld, what's next? We're hoping for a math-and-music-based shoot-em up where you solve equations with the beat while trying to dodge bullets. We'll call it... a logarhythm-up.

Continue reading Blood on the dance floor

JoystiqBlood on the dance floor originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 May 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banprestobeatbattlecbbdcustombeatbattlecustombeatbattledragladedragladedsfighterfightingimportimportsnintendonintendodsrhythmTue, 08 May 2007 12:00:00 EST