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[Miyamoto explains why it's 'easy' to make a Mario game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/miyamoto-explains-why-its-easy-to-make-a-mario-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/miyamoto-explains-why-its-easy-to-make-a-mario-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/miyamoto-explains-why-its-easy-to-make-a-mario-game/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As part of Nintendo's ongoing celebration of Mario's 25th anniversary, the latest edition of Iwata Asks is a lengthy conversation between Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto and guest host Shigesato Itoi, creator of Earthbound. In the interview, Miyamoto suggested that making Mario games has been "easy," thanks to ever-evolving technology.

"What's been easy about making the Mario games is that they could naturally change along with the progress of technology," Miyamoto observed. "For example, when you make live action SFX movies and as special effects technology advances, then you have new methods at your disposal."

Adapting to new technologies has been key to Mario's longevity, Miyamoto explained. "In the same way, as technology advances, the Mario games change, too [...] And as technology changes, so does what you want to do. If it weren't for that, I don't think I could have stuck with it this far." Because the Mario franchise is meant to change with technology, there hasn't ever been a "roadmap" for the series. Instead, the impromptu schedule of Mario games has fueled its creative stamina. "The games turn out more fun that way than if you planned everything out on paper," Miyamoto added.

Although Miyamoto has been working with Nintendo and the Mario series for the past 25 years, it seems the famed designer isn't ready to quit any time soon. When quizzed about his position 25 years from now (when he's 85!), Miyamoto admitted that "I'll probably be working on something." Of course, there's a caveat: "If I'm still alive then."

JoystiqMiyamoto explains why it's 'easy' to make a Mario game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsiwata-asksmariomiyamotonintendoshigeru-miyamotosuper-mario-brosSuper-Mario-Bros-NESwiiFri, 24 Sep 2010 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Scott Pilgrim vs. the world of video games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/scott-pilgrim-vs-the-world-of-video-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/scott-pilgrim-vs-the-world-of-video-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/scott-pilgrim-vs-the-world-of-video-games/#commentsFiled under: , ,

I saw the upcoming Scott Pilgrim vs. The World movie at Comic-Con last weekend, and while our purview is still just interactive entertainment, the film is an indication of just how prevalent video games have become in popular culture. Just like the popular indie comics on which it's based, the film is chock full of video game references and even has some big plot points that invoke old-school video game clichés. Gaming is woven into the language of this story and this movie.

I got a chance earlier this week to sit down with director Edgar Wright, Scott Pilgrim creator Bryan Lee O'Malley, and the movie's cast to talk about the flick, video games in general and how mainstream audiences will react to seeing games used onscreen in this way. We also got some new insight on the retro-style Scott Pilgrim vs. The World game.

Gallery: Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (Comic Con)

Continue reading Scott Pilgrim vs. the world of video games

JoystiqScott Pilgrim vs. the world of video games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brandon-routhbryan-lee-omalleyedgar-wrightmary-elizabeth-winsteadmicrosoftmiyamotonintendoplaystationps3psnscott-pilgrimscott-pilgrim-vs-the-worldubisoftxblaxboxWed, 28 Jul 2010 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto: Nintendo 'desperate to realize' online business]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/miyamoto-nintendo-desperate-to-realize-online-business/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/miyamoto-nintendo-desperate-to-realize-online-business/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/miyamoto-nintendo-desperate-to-realize-online-business/#commentsNintendo's online offerings are free (and somewhat limited) as of now, but that might not always be the case. According to statements from Shigeru Miyamoto to Edge, Nintendo is still considering the nature of its online business.

"Probably the other thing that we are desperate to realise is the core [online] business structure," Miyamoto said. "Do we need to demand customers pay monthly fees to enjoy online activities? Or give an online subscription that is free of charge, but then offer something extra for people that pay, so that they get some extra value? With these core business strategies I think we are less active than we should be."

Miyamoto denied claims that Nintendo isn't "proactive when it comes to its online strategy," noting that the company intends for all consumers to be connected through the Wii at all times (Nintendo even initiated a reward program for those who help others get their Wiis online). He did admit that "Nintendo hasn't been very proactive in developing such online activities as an MMOG."

None of this is any confirmation that Nintendo's going to start charging for some kind of pervasive network, or that we'll see an Animal Crossing MMO at E3. But it is definitely interesting that the company is showing an interest in online services beyond the somewhat barebones setup it has now.

JoystiqMiyamoto: Nintendo 'desperate to realize' online business originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 May 2010 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSmiyamotoNintendonintendo-wifinintendo-wifi-connectiononlineshigeru-miyamotoWiiFri, 07 May 2010 18:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto on retirement and the Wii's innovation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/miyamoto-on-retirement-and-the-wiis-innovation/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/miyamoto-on-retirement-and-the-wiis-innovation/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/miyamoto-on-retirement-and-the-wiis-innovation/#comments At age 57, you might think Shigeru Miyamoto would be taking it easy -- maybe plunking a few coins into his 401k, or taking to the garden to plant a few Fire Flowers. But not Shiggy, who tells gamesTM that retirement isn't an option quite yet. While Nintendo "has to retire me some time," he says, "I look around and see how aged cartoonists continue to work on their manga and how movie directors create new movies all the time, I understand that they would never retire. And by the same token, I guess I will still be making games somehow."

Miyamoto also mentions Super Mario Galaxy 2, and says that the first numbered sequel in years was supposed to be version 1.5, but "we noticed that there were too many new experiences for it to be merely an incremental update." He gracefully refuses to comment on others' work, but affirms that Nintendo goal is "to provide fun and surprise" in video games, not merely to see "who can come up with the most violent depictions." Miyamoto says that the motion control mania going on with other consoles proves that Wii is "the de facto standard of the industry's control mechanisms," and new innovations, like the upcoming Vitality Sensor, are announced "only after being able to confirm internally that it is something that the general public will be able to appreciate." First we need to see just what the heck it does before we can start talking appreciation!

And while almost every game developer out there has been influenced by Shigeru Miyamoto, who's impressed him? "Mr. Will Wright," he admits, "is a very unique person and someone very special." Maybe Miyamoto's taking notes on Wright's retirement, too: He's still having Stupid Fun after leaving the corporate life.

[Via Industry Gamers]

JoystiqMiyamoto on retirement and the Wii's innovation originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Apr 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>interviewmiyamotomotion-controlnintendoretiresuper-mario-galaxy-2vitality-sensorWiiwill-wrightMon, 19 Apr 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto explains Super Mario Galaxy 2's new world map]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/miyamoto-explains-super-mario-galaxy-2-new-world-map/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/miyamoto-explains-super-mario-galaxy-2-new-world-map/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/miyamoto-explains-super-mario-galaxy-2-new-world-map/#commentsSuper Mario Galaxy 2 drops the hub world from the first game for a much simpler map interface; even simpler than New Super Mario Bros.' map. Speaking to Game Informer, Shigeru Miyamoto explained the change. "We want players to focus on the joy of the action instead of getting to each game course," he said. "We wanted to make it as accessible as possible and as easy as possible for the players." That's not to say the game is being made easier in general. It's just now easier to get to the levels.

"Also, because we're going to incorporate a number of different stars, and conquering all the stars is going to be one of the most challenging missions for the player," Miyamoto added, "we want [players] to understand as easy as possible where they should go next and which places they should go back to in order to get access to the remaining stars." In addition, the new starship mechanic necessitates a streamlined navigation interface.

Game Informer also managed to ask Miyamoto about 3D right before the announcement of the 3DS, so the discussion was all about 3D televisions (and not entirely transferable to 3DS). "We're at the stage right now where it's very difficult to tell whether 3D televisions are going to cater to our needs to make better 3D experiences," he said. "For one thing, our video games are made for as many people as possible, and the number of people who can play those types of games, who can afford to buy the 3D televisions at home, aren't going to be very good." A hint of where Nintendo might be going with 3D followed: "It is also true that certain types of three-dimensional games utilize 3D televisions might help people navigate more freely. Right now we're at the stage where it's very hard for us to determine whether it's very good or bad."

Gallery: Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Nintendo Media Summit 2010)

JoystiqMiyamoto explains Super Mario Galaxy 2's new world map originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dMiyamotoNintendoshigeru-miyamotosuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiMon, 29 Mar 2010 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto confirms Pikmin 3 development 'well underway']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/miyamoto-confirms-pikmin-3-development-well-underway/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/miyamoto-confirms-pikmin-3-development-well-underway/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/miyamoto-confirms-pikmin-3-development-well-underway/#comments The Official Nintendo Magazine UK is hanging out at tonight's BAFTA Video Game awards, and has punched into its Twitter account that not only did it get to talk to one Shigeru Miyamoto, but that he's confirmed Pikmin 3 is in development and "well under way." Over a year ago, the game was rumored to be released a week-and-a-half from now, but we'll presume it's not quite that far along in development.

Still, good to hear that the game is still going on, considering that we've only seen the barest sprouts of information about it so far. Maybe Miyamoto should give his team a 30-day time limit within which to finish the game, and see how they feel about that.

JoystiqMiyamoto confirms Pikmin 3 development 'well underway' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Mar 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baftamiyamotoNintendoofficial-nintendo-magazine-ukpikmin-3shigeru-miyamotoWiiFri, 19 Mar 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto mentions new hardware, new MotionPlus games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/miyamoto-mentions-new-hardware-new-motionplus-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/miyamoto-mentions-new-hardware-new-motionplus-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/miyamoto-mentions-new-hardware-new-motionplus-games/#comments
[GAME Watch]
During an acceptance speech at the Japan Media Arts Festival this past weekend, Shigeru Miyamoto casually referred to unannounced Nintendo hardware and at least one new Wii project he's working on, which uses the MotionPlus peripheral. Of course, since Miyamoto wasn't making any formal announcements, that's all he said on those fronts, according to Andriasang's summary of a 4Gamer report.

Miyamoto was onstage accepting a Special Achievement Prize when he revealed that, in addition to Zelda, he's working on an unspecified number of other projects that use MotionPlus. While unconfirmed, the "Special Achievement" might have been awarded for Miyamoto's work in the field of vague announcements.

[Via Andriasang]

JoystiqMiyamoto mentions new hardware, new MotionPlus games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DShardwarejapanjapan-media-arts-festivalmiyamotomotionplusNintendoshigeru-miyamotoWiiMon, 08 Feb 2010 15:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo to Greenpeace: We do care about the environment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/nintendo-to-greenpeace-we-do-care-about-the-environment/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/nintendo-to-greenpeace-we-do-care-about-the-environment/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/nintendo-to-greenpeace-we-do-care-about-the-environment/#comments Greenpeace harshed on Nintendo's eco-coolness last week, and this week the House that Miyamoto Built is firing back. It's released a statement to Gamasutra saying that it takes environmental responsibilities seriously, and that the company is committed to saving energy, making both of its consoles energy efficient and using carefully picked and clearly-labeled materials in an effort to make post-usage recycling easy.

To be fair to Nintendo, most of Greenpeace's argument against it was that the company didn't share information about what it did for the environment, and let's be honest here: Nintendo's not really one for sharing. While Nintendo did get blamed for increasing its CO2 emissions, most of Greenpeace's other complaints (as you can see in the PDF) were not actually about mistakes Nintendo was making, but its failure to share information or release reports about its operations. We can't really blame Nintendo for that -- on at least a few of its points, it seems Greenpeace's methodology was more responsible for the big N's bottom-of-the-barrel listing.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqNintendo to Greenpeace: We do care about the environment originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jan 2010 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSenergy-efficientgamasutragreenpeacemariomethodmiyamotoNintendorecyclingreportstatementWiiTue, 12 Jan 2010 03:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto thinks his college degree wouldn't get him a job at Nintendo today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/miyamoto-thinks-his-college-degree-wouldnt-get-him-a-job-at-nin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/miyamoto-thinks-his-college-degree-wouldnt-get-him-a-job-at-nin/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/miyamoto-thinks-his-college-degree-wouldnt-get-him-a-job-at-nin/#comments In the upcoming issue of Edge Magazine, Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto discusses a variety of topics with the UK gaming magazine. Develop Online got their hands on a copy of the magazine already, revealing a rather ... revealing quote from the father of Donkey Kong. "Nintendo has become one of those companies that graduates from colleges and good universities really want to work for ... I often say to [Nintendo head] Mr. Iwata: 'If I was applying for a job here today, I, with my actual college degree, would probably not have been employed by Nintendo."

Though he adds that he "might pick up on [applicants] and try to find out something really different within them which you can't judge just by a college degree," it worries us greatly that today's equivalent of the man who helped to birth some of the game industry's landmark franchises may end up unemployed or even dissuaded from game development altogether. All alone! Without a home! We imagine somewhat like a rolling stone!

... Our apologies. That was quite enough.

JoystiqMiyamoto thinks his college degree wouldn't get him a job at Nintendo today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collegecollege-degreedonkey-kongDSjobsmiyamotonintendosatoru-iwatashigeru-miyamotoWiiMon, 23 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Zelda producer teases surprises for next title at E3 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/zelda-producer-teases-surprises-for-next-title-at-e3-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/zelda-producer-teases-surprises-for-next-title-at-e3-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/19/zelda-producer-teases-surprises-for-next-title-at-e3-2010/#comments Our absolute favorite thing about the Zelda series is how much it saves us on strategy guides. See, you can pretty much follow the walkthrough for Link to the Past to beat every installment in the franchise released thereafter. (Get the sword! Get the shield! Beat the Forest Temple! Get the power bracelet! Beat the Fire Temple!) However, in a recent interview with Official Nintendo Magazine, series producer Eiji Aonuma revealed that we can expect some big changes from the franchise's next iteration -- changes which he hopes will be revealed during next year's E3 showcase.

Aonuma explained that, in order to try and keep the series fresh, he and Shigeru Miyamoto "have been trying something new in terms of the structure of the Wii version of the new Zelda game this time." You know what that means. They're going to put the Fire Temple before the Forest Temple. We're kidding, of course -- that's just crazy talk.

JoystiqZelda producer teases surprises for next title at E3 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010Eiji-AonumaLegend-of-Zelda-2010miyamotoNintendothe-legend-of-zeldaWiizeldaThu, 19 Nov 2009 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo 'hasn't committed' to new Zelda for Wii in 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/08/nintendo-hasnt-committed-to-new-zelda-for-wii-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/08/nintendo-hasnt-committed-to-new-zelda-for-wii-in-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/08/nintendo-hasnt-committed-to-new-zelda-for-wii-in-2010/#comments We all know that home console Zelda games take longer to develop than most small, fledgling nations -- still, we'd secretly hoped that Nintendo would pull a hat trick next year, releasing new Wii installments in the Metroid, Mario and the aforementioned Triforce-centric series. Sadly, a recent quote from Reggie Fils-Aime has made us doubtful that this scenario will be realized -- speaking on GameTrailers TV, Fils-Aime explained that Nintendo hasn't "committed to Zelda for 2010."

So, feel free to keep that hope in your heart that you'll be Ganon-thwarting once more within the next 365 days -- but don't get too upset if it doesn't happen. Much like a college-aged Lothario, Nintendo's remaining non-committal. You might say the company's as free as a bird, darling -- and this bird, you cannot change.

JoystiqNintendo 'hasn't committed' to new Zelda for Wii in 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 08 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010gametrailers-tvLegend-of-Zelda-2010miyamotonintendoWiizeldaSun, 08 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo might be considering hybrid HD/SD console]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/nintendo-might-be-considering-hybrid-hd-sd-console/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/nintendo-might-be-considering-hybrid-hd-sd-console/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/05/nintendo-might-be-considering-hybrid-hd-sd-console/#commentsIn a voluminous response to an investor question about moving to support high-definition output, Nintendo executives laid out their current thoughts on how and when to make such a move in their consoles. Of course, these thoughts shouldn't be taken as a definite indicator of Nintendo's plans, but they might suggest where the company could be headed in the next generation. And if these statements do reflect future events, Nintendo's next console will be HD-capable, but won't require that standard for every game.

Genyo Takeda, GM of Nintendo's Integrated Research & Development Division, said that "moving to HD appears to me a natural flow" given the adoption of HD by television programming. "If we can find out the most appropriate medium, between SD and HD, and flexibly move around them depending on the game's contents, it will be good, I think," he suggested. Shigeru Miyamoto agreed, noting that HD wasn't the most important consideration for something like Wii Fit. "Won't HD be better for the games like Pikmin? The developers should choose the most appropriate graphical format depending on the software they make."

JoystiqNintendo might be considering hybrid HD/SD console originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>designdevelopmentgenyo-takedahardwarehdhigh-definitionmiyamotoNintendoresearchsdshigeru-miyamotostandard-definitionWiiThu, 05 Nov 2009 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo still planning to co-market Dragon Quest IX]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/nintendo-still-planning-to-co-market-dragon-quest-ix/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/nintendo-still-planning-to-co-market-dragon-quest-ix/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/nintendo-still-planning-to-co-market-dragon-quest-ix/#commentsThough Square Enix has yet to say anything concrete about releasing Dragon Quest IX outside of Japan, Nintendo has discussed its own plans to market the title. Last year, Satoru Iwata mentioned his intention to promote the game in the West, and during this week's financial results Q&A session, senior managing director Shinji Hatano reiterated that intention.

"Hatano said that helping to sell Dragon Quest IX outside Japan is part of a larger effort on the part of Nintendo to partner with software makers to sell their games for Nintendo hardware," GameLife summarized. Maybe eventually, Square Enix will announce this game.

Also on the subject of Dragon Quest IX, at the same event, Shigeru Miyamoto praised DQIX's communication mode, which allows players to collect and interact with others' characters passively. "Dragon Quest IX's passerby communication has caused the number of people walking around outside using their DS systems to increase greatly, and I'm thinking that I could probably make something unique like that," he said. And then he said "Also, recently, we got a cat." Hint, hint.

[Via GameLife]

JoystiqNintendo still planning to co-market Dragon Quest IX originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DQ9Dragon-QuestDragon-Quest-9-Sentinels-of-the-Starry-Skiesdragon-quest-ixearningsJRPGLevel-5miyamotoNintendoRPGshigeru-miyamotosquare-enixTue, 03 Nov 2009 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto a 'big fan' of Star Fox, says series popularity on the decline]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/miyamoto-a-big-fan-of-star-fox-says-series-popularity-on-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/miyamoto-a-big-fan-of-star-fox-says-series-popularity-on-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/miyamoto-a-big-fan-of-star-fox-says-series-popularity-on-the/#comments For being a Nintendo property, the Star Fox series hasn't performed, well -- it hasn't performed like a Nintendo property. Gaming legend Shigeru Miyamoto recently divulged to MTV Multiplayer that the series has been on the decline since its inception, with steadily declining sales for each new iteration.

But, despite all of that, Miyamoto is still a "big fan" of the series. He says that every time a new entry releases, he's "hoping people will enjoy it as much as I do," but that -- in Japan, at least -- the series' popularity has not met with Nintendo's expectations over its lifespan. It's understandable, really; when a company puts out the best-selling "game" of the last decade, it might find it hard to justify putting out something that isn't guaranteed to create giant piles of cash.

JoystiqMiyamoto a 'big fan' of Star Fox, says series popularity on the decline originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSmiyamotoNintendoshigeru-miyamotoshiggystar-foxWiiWed, 28 Oct 2009 19:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto: Wii successor will likely feature motion controls in 'more compact' form]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/20/miyamoto-wii-successor-will-likely-feature-motion-controls-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/20/miyamoto-wii-successor-will-likely-feature-motion-controls-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/20/miyamoto-wii-successor-will-likely-feature-motion-controls-in/#commentsIt sounds like Nintendo's plans for the next console are going to continue largely in the direction they've always been going (you know, the one that has resulted in millions of dollars). Shigeru Miyamoto told Popular Mechanics that, despite not having a solid plan yet for upcoming hardware, motion controls are likely to stick around.

"With both the Wii remote itself and Wii MotionPlus, what we've been able to do is introduce an interface that is both I think appealing and at the right price for a broad audience," Miyamoto said. "And while we don't have any concrete plans for what we'll be doing with hardware in the future, what I can say is that, my guess is that because we found this interface to be so interesting, I think it would be likely that we would try to make that same functionality perhaps more compact and perhaps even more cost-efficient."

This could result in a single unit that combines the base Wiimote functionality with the extra accelerometer of the MotionPlus, which makes sense. Or, more excitingly, Miyamoto could be talking about the system being more "compact" and "cost-efficient." Either way, it's starting to look less and less likely that the Wii 2 will be just like its competitors, but with Mario games on it.

In much more important news, Miyamoto said that he'd never heard of The Wizard. Bill Trinen's got a night of translating horrible Fred Savage dialogue ahead of him!

JoystiqMiyamoto: Wii successor will likely feature motion controls in 'more compact' form originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>miyamotomotion-controlsmotionplusNintendoshigeru-miyamotoWiiwii-2Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[New Super Mario Bros. Wii is 'pretty difficult']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/new-super-mario-bros-wii-is-pretty-difficult/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/new-super-mario-bros-wii-is-pretty-difficult/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/new-super-mario-bros-wii-is-pretty-difficult/#commentsFiled under: , ,

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

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

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

Gallery: New Super Mario Bros. Wii

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>miyamotoNew-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendoPlatformshigeru-miyamotoWiiFri, 16 Oct 2009 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto: 'there may still be some possibility' for Wii Music franchise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/miyamoto-there-may-still-be-some-possibility-for-wii-music-fr/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/miyamoto-there-may-still-be-some-possibility-for-wii-music-fr/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/miyamoto-there-may-still-be-some-possibility-for-wii-music-fr/#comments At a New York City roundtable event, Nintendo's resident wunderkind Shigeru Miyamoto showed Joystiq and several other press outlets his latest creation: New Super Mario Bros. Wii (more on that later). During the Q&A that followed, when asked if he was particularly surprised by the reception of any of his games, Miyamoto responded that while he wasn't "truly surprised" by the reaction it got, he thinks "there may still be some possibility with ... Wii Music," the Big N's poorly received music title.

"The development team members, the directors of Wii Music were I think, maybe a little bit shocked by the reaction and had hoped it would get a better response than it did," Miyamoto explained through a translator. "So I think if we were to do anything, it would be a matter of getting back together with them and trying to understand what their expectations were and where the gap was between their expectations and what the resulting product was."

That doesn't mean Miyamoto doesn't have any insight into the game's failure to connect with gamers. He explained that the "gap between the positives and the negatives seems to be pretty big," referring to the games reception. "The thing that's interesting about Wii Music is there are people who are very versed in music and play the game and their evaluation of it is very high but at the same time there are a lot of people who play it and don't have a very good opinion of it."

As if to prevent any "Wii Music 2 confirmed!" headlines from finding their way online, Miyamoto clarified, "We have talked about it but it isn't anything that's concrete at this point." As unusual as it is to see a Nintendo product miss the mark, it's similarly unusual to hear the company acknowledge as much.

JoystiqMiyamoto: 'there may still be some possibility' for Wii Music franchise originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>miyamotoNintendoShigeru-MiyamotoWiiWii-MusicThu, 15 Oct 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto foresees more user-generated content in the future]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/miyamoto-foresees-more-user-generated-content-in-the-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/miyamoto-foresees-more-user-generated-content-in-the-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/15/miyamoto-foresees-more-user-generated-content-in-the-future/#comments
Nintendo designer Shigeru Miyamoto may not play many of his competitors' games, but he does see a future where games like LittleBigPlanet will become increasingly commonplace. After demoing a few levels from the upcoming New Super Mario Bros. Wii, we asked Miyamoto if he'd ever consider giving everyday players the tools to make their own Mario levels. "This is an area that I have a lot of interest in, and I think that the side-scrolling Mario games in particular are well suited to that idea," Miyamoto said (as translated by Bill Trinnen).

Miyamoto then pointed to previous Nintendo works in an attempt to prove his openness towards the idea. "Of course the Mario vs. Donkey Kong series is one that's made in North America by NST, but it's one that I've been involved in and from early on. We did have a lot of discussions about how to enable that kind of level creation in that series. And of course, more recently on Nintendo DSi, we have released Flipnote Studio, which is another kind of utility or tool-type of software that's really about letting users let their creation out and share it with others."

Neither examples have the depth or scope of what we wanted Miyamoto to do: Confirm a LBP-esque community-driven Mario platformer. As implausible as that may sound, Miyamoto reiterated his interest, and admitted that the future will see more of these kinds of games. "And I think those types of interactive experiences are going to continue to broaden and we'll see a lot more user-generated content going forward. I've always had an interest in those kinds of creative tools, so I will definitely be open to ideas like that in the future."

JoystiqMiyamoto foresees more user-generated content in the future originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mariomiyamotonew-super-mario-bros-wiiNintendoshigeru-miyamotouser-generated-contentWiiThu, 15 Oct 2009 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto expects sustained sales for New Super Mario Bros. Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/miyamoto-expects-sustained-sales-for-new-super-mario-bros-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/miyamoto-expects-sustained-sales-for-new-super-mario-bros-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/12/miyamoto-expects-sustained-sales-for-new-super-mario-bros-wii/#commentsFiled under: , ,

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

[Via andriasang]

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanmiyamotoNew-Super-Mario-Bros-WiiNintendoPlatformshigeru-miyamotoshiggyWiiMon, 12 Oct 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shigeru Miyamoto unexpectedly promotes Samurai Warriors 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/shigeru-miyamoto-unexpectedly-promotes-samurai-warriors-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/shigeru-miyamoto-unexpectedly-promotes-samurai-warriors-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/05/shigeru-miyamoto-unexpectedly-promotes-samurai-warriors-3/#commentsWhy should we care about yet another Dynasty/Samurai Warriors game from Koei? Because Shigeru Miyamoto does, that's why. Nintendo's Senior Managing Director surprised press by appearing at Koei Tecmo's press conference for the Wii-exclusive Samurai Warriors 3, and announcing a new gameplay mode based on Nazo no Murasamejou, a samurai-themed Zelda-like game released only on Famicom Disk System.

Samurai Warriors 3 will support the Classic Controller, and will be sold in a Classic Controller Pro bundle like Monster Hunter 3. It is due in November, with a playable demo presented at Tokyo Game Show. These things still sell in Japan, so we expect this to move some Wii hardware, as long as it isn't in first person or anything like that.

[Via GameSetWatch; original Japanese report via Inside-Games; image via Famitsu]

JoystiqShigeru Miyamoto unexpectedly promotes Samurai Warriors 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>koei-tecmomiyamotosamurai-warriorssamurai-warriors-3shigeru-miyamototecmoWed, 05 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto: 'Have confidence' in Nintendo's ability to develop for the Vitality Sensor]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/miyamoto-have-confidence-in-nintendos-ability-to-develop-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/miyamoto-have-confidence-in-nintendos-ability-to-develop-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/04/miyamoto-have-confidence-in-nintendos-ability-to-develop-for/#commentsSince its out-of-nowhere introduction at E3, the biometric-reading Wii Vitality Sensor has inspired some rage, some jokes, and a lot of confusion, but very little genuine interest from gamers online. The Mercury News asked Shigeru Miyamoto to respond to the widespread skepticism about the peripheral.

"Ideally we would have been able to talk about this in terms of the software implementation rather than just the sensor itself," Miyamoto said. "I don't have any indication for you (of what we have in the works) other than to say that we have lots of very creative ideas."

Even though he still has no specific software ideas to discuss, Miyamoto assured readers that Nintendo would do something interesting. "We understand the challenge before us, and we have met these challenges in the past. We just ask that people have confidence in us."

Miyamoto also offered his feelings on digital distribution: "Personally, I'm one of those guys who, even if I have all the songs from iTunes, I want the CD as well. It's something that makes me - I feel more reassured with that physical media." He believes that a combination of digital and physical media will continue into the future.

JoystiqMiyamoto: 'Have confidence' in Nintendo's ability to develop for the Vitality Sensor originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Aug 2009 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distributionmiyamotoNintendoshigeru-miyamotoWiiwii-vitality-sensorTue, 04 Aug 2009 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto: Wii MotionPlus technology only possible now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/miyamoto-wii-motionplus-technology-only-possible-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/miyamoto-wii-motionplus-technology-only-possible-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/21/miyamoto-wii-motionplus-technology-only-possible-now/#comments
Don't even start weaving conspiracies about how Nintendo's recently released Wii MotionPlus peripheral was supposed to be incorporated in the initial Wiimote design. According to Shigeru Miyamoto, such a nickel-and-dime plot is absolutely impossible -- and as we all know, Miyamoto never lies. Look at him, with those pinchable cheeks! Those are not the cheeks of a liar.

In an interview with The Telegraph, Shiggy explained the MotionPlus was only possible due to technological innovations "which took place after Wii launched." Actually, he says the technology was around, but it would have been impossible to use at such a "compact" size and low price. So, did you want Wiimotes to cost $200 and weigh as much as toddlers? No? We didn't think so.

[Via IGN]

JoystiqMiyamoto: Wii MotionPlus technology only possible now originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>miyamotoNintendoperipheralshigeru-miyamototechnologyWiiwii-motionpluswiimoteTue, 21 Jul 2009 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Sports Resort's E3 2008 demo completed in three months]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/wii-sports-resorts-e3-2008-demo-completed-in-three-months/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/wii-sports-resorts-e3-2008-demo-completed-in-three-months/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/wii-sports-resorts-e3-2008-demo-completed-in-three-months/#comments When we first saw Wii Sports Resort last year, all Nintendo had available were three of the game's events: swordplay, power cruising, and Disc Dog. It turns out that those three (quite polished) events are pretty much all that existed at the time. In the latest Iwata Asks interview, the Wii Sports Resort team reveals that they didn't have anything but the idea of maybe doing another sequel until three months before E3 2008. Above, you can see what had been done: a MotionPlus test involving a virtual toy.

As usual, the Iwata Asks interview is full of surprisingly forthright discussion about the inner workings of Nintendo, including the team (and Shigeru Miyamoto) expressing its elation about a MotionPlus delay that allowed for more work on Resort, everyone's relative confusion at Miyamoto's "Wuhu Island" franchise idea, and, best of all, Miyamoto's deceptive methods of team motivation.

At one point, Miyamoto announced in an interview that golf would be in Wii Sports Resort, and that the MotionPlus would allow backswing to control the strength of the swing, instead of just speed -- and the team had to rush to actually put golf in the game afterward. Later, he describes how he faked a directive from Satoru Iwata to add an extra game mode. And apparently a programmer couldn't demonstrate the archery feature for Miyamoto because he was too nervous to aim the bow properly.

Shigeru Miyamoto sounds like kind of a jerk, actually.

JoystiqWii Sports Resort's E3 2008 demo completed in three months originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>miyamotomotionplusNintendoWiiwii-sportswii-sports-resortTue, 07 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's 'Demo Play' planned for handheld games as well]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/nintendos-demo-play-planned-for-handheld-games-as-well/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/nintendos-demo-play-planned-for-handheld-games-as-well/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/nintendos-demo-play-planned-for-handheld-games-as-well/#commentsThe controversial "Demo Play" feature devised by Shigeru Miyamoto and Nintendo won't just be limited to New Super Mario Bros. Wii and other console-based adventures. A blurb in Japan's Nikkei newspaper notes that the feature, which allows players to skip difficult areas and watch them played automatically, will also be used in portable games in the future. Nikkei referred to it as a "skip functionality" or "skip feature."

Nikkei notes that this feature is designed for "high-speed action games," so presumably you won't be able to let Dr. Kawashima step in and count the number of people who just ran out of the house (we hate that one), nor will you be able to make the Pokémon start choosing themselves mid-battle.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqNintendo's 'Demo Play' planned for handheld games as well originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualdemo-playDSmiyamotonew-super-mario-bros-wiiNintendoWiiTue, 07 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto: Next Legend of Zelda won't be 'radically different']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/02/miyamoto-next-legend-of-zelda-wont-be-radically-different/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/02/miyamoto-next-legend-of-zelda-wont-be-radically-different/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/02/miyamoto-next-legend-of-zelda-wont-be-radically-different/#comments If you subscribe to Nintendo Power, the latest issue should be arriving at your house very soon -- Aeropause has the scoop on some details on Nintendo's upcoming lineup from the issue. Most important to folks reading this text is likely what Miyamoto had to say regarding the new Legend of Zelda game, announced back at E3: "I don't think it's going to be that radically different." But, what about the theory of the girl being the Master Sword? Surely that is radically different!

In typical Nintendo fashion, that's all Miyamoto had to say. He left us hanging to speculate, and we're sure most will be able to turn this appetizer of a quote into a five-course meal.

[Via Videogamer]

JoystiqMiyamoto: Next Legend of Zelda won't be 'radically different' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009legend-of-zeldaLegend-of-Zelda-2010linkmaster-swordmiyamotoNintendonintendo-powershigeru-miyamotoWiizeldaThu, 02 Jul 2009 11:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Survey: Developers still worship Miyamoto, Blow too]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/15/survey-developers-still-worship-miyamoto-blow-too/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/15/survey-developers-still-worship-miyamoto-blow-too/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/15/survey-developers-still-worship-miyamoto-blow-too/#comments Luminary Shigeru Miyamoto hasn't lost his shimmer in the eyes of game developers, with a recent industry poll finding the Nintendo icon to be without equal. The survey, commissioned by organizers of next month's Develop Conference, asked 9,000 devs to name their game development hero, with nearly a third of respondents pointing to Miyamoto as the man with the plan.

The popularity contest also named id Software's John Carmack as the next most idealized developer, followed by Maxis and now Stupid Fun Club brainpan Will Wright. The top ten list of industry highlights was rounded out by Braid dev Jonathan Blow, who's likely too busy rewinding time (to see if he can somehow land higher on the ballot) to care.

JoystiqSurvey: Developers still worship Miyamoto, Blow too originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>braiddevelop-conferenceDSid-softwarejohn-carmackjonathan-blowmiyamotonintendoshigeru-miyamotoshigerumiyamotoshiggystupid-fun-clubWiiwill-wrightMon, 15 Jun 2009 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto flattered, not worried by Sony, Microsoft motion controllers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/miyamoto-flattered-not-worried-by-sony-microsoft-motion-contro/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/miyamoto-flattered-not-worried-by-sony-microsoft-motion-contro/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/08/miyamoto-flattered-not-worried-by-sony-microsoft-motion-contro/#comments If there was one driving theme behind this year's E3, it was that motion controls are too cool for school. However, even with both Microsoft and Sony jumping onto the bandwagon with their own gesture-based antics, Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto tells the BBC that he's "not worried at all" about being left behind.

In fact, the brain trust says that Nintendo's "very flattered" by the competition. Still, Miyamoto barbed his comments, stating that, based on what he's seen so far, neither competitor's motion controllers "have the type of depth that we're able to provide with Wii Motion Plus." Sony. Microsoft. You hear that hitting the floor? That's the gauntlet.

[Via 1UP]

JoystiqMiyamoto flattered, not worried by Sony, Microsoft motion controllers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbce3-2009Microsoftmiyamotomotion-controlmotion-controlsmotion-sensingmotionsensingnintendoshigeru-miyamotoshigerumiyamotoWiiXbox-360Mon, 08 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Insights on Nintendo's new games from the Miyamoto developer event]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/07/insights-on-nintendos-new-games-from-the-miyamoto-developer-eve/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/07/insights-on-nintendos-new-games-from-the-miyamoto-developer-eve/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/07/insights-on-nintendos-new-games-from-the-miyamoto-developer-eve/#commentsShigeru Miyamoto didn't appear at Nintendo's big E3 conference, but he did appear at what Nintendo called a "developer event" later that evening, in a "very relaxed mood" from his morning off. This discussion/Q&A event was the location of last year's Pikmin 3 reveal, and this year Miyamoto came prepared to surprise everyone again at the end, with art from the next Zelda game.

"To be honest with you, I really wanted, at this E3, to announce a Zelda game for Wii," he said. "But, we've already shown you a Zelda on Wii, and rather than try to think of something to bring here to show you, we really wanted to focus on actual game development.

"However, I didn't want to come empty-handed, so I did bring the main illustration for the next Zelda title."

Continue reading Insights on Nintendo's new games from the Miyamoto developer event

JoystiqInsights on Nintendo's new games from the Miyamoto developer event originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Jun 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009miyamotonew-super-mario-bros-wiishigeru-miyamotosuper-mario-brossuper-mario-galaxy-2the-legend-of-zelda-spirit-tracksSun, 07 Jun 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Touch! Monsters in Miyamoto's patented RPG design]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/touch-monsters-in-miyamotos-patented-rpg-design/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/touch-monsters-in-miyamotos-patented-rpg-design/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/touch-monsters-in-miyamotos-patented-rpg-design/#commentsShigeru Miyamoto still thinks about games that aren't about exercise, as evidenced by this patent for an unused DS RPG discovered by Siliconera. The concept is simple, but sounds like a lot of fun: it's your basic RPG with random battles, but the combat is all touch-controlled.

In this patented game design, monsters move around on the screen, and you poke them with the stylus to cause damage. Jab a weak point for massive damage (of course), and less damage results from missing or hitting more armored areas.

There's only one aspect of this design that confuses us: why it isn't a game yet. We'd love to see Miyamoto's take on the classic turn-based RPG.

JoystiqTouch! Monsters in Miyamoto's patented RPG design originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSmiyamotoNintendopatentrpgMon, 20 Apr 2009 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto to receive ELAN 'Video Game Hall of Fame' award]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/06/miyamoto-to-receive-elan-video-game-hall-of-fame-award/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/06/miyamoto-to-receive-elan-video-game-hall-of-fame-award/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/06/miyamoto-to-receive-elan-video-game-hall-of-fame-award/#commentsCanada's ELAN Awards, a ceremony celebrating achievements in animation and video games, has announced that it will add another trophy to Shigeru Miyamoto's collection. The Nintendo producer, "considered by his peers to be the greatest video game designer in the world," will be inducted into the organization's "Video Game Hall of Fame." One notable peer: last year's award winner, Microsoft's Don Mattrick.

Voting for the honorary award, along with the ceremony's other honorary awards in the fields of animation and visual effects, was held online, hosted by IGN. The awards will be handed out on April 25 in Vancouver at an event hosted by Tom "Spongebob Squarepants" Kenny.

JoystiqMiyamoto to receive ELAN 'Video Game Hall of Fame' award originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Apr 2009 09:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardscanadaDSelan-awardsmiyamotoNintendoshigeru-miyamotoWiiMon, 06 Apr 2009 09:35:00 EST<![CDATA[GameCube era even depressed Miyamoto]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/gamecube-era-even-depressed-miyamoto/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/gamecube-era-even-depressed-miyamoto/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/gamecube-era-even-depressed-miyamoto/#commentsSometimes, one might assume that super-genius game developers don't think the way that you do, but it's just not so! Take, for instance, Shigeru Miyamoto, who you might know for his work on pure undiluted joy. He recently told Japanese mag Famitsu that several aspects of the way Nintendo operated during the N64 and GameCube years made him "very sad." Hey, Shiggy, us too!

Of course, we probably have slightly different reasoning. Miyamoto complained about the company trying to follow its competitors during that era, saying, "I was endlessly fascinated with 3D worlds, but what with all the issues I had to tinker with in terms of rendering and processing speed, it got to the point where I didn't know who was making the games any longer." We would have more simply said that "a lot of games for those systems were very, very bad," but it's nice to know the big guy gets where we're coming from.

JoystiqGameCube era even depressed Miyamoto originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Mar 2009 09:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSgamecubemiyamoton64Nintendoshigeru-miyamotoWiiThu, 12 Mar 2009 09:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Spore, Shiggy honored with Jim Henson awards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/spore-shiggy-honored-with-jim-henson-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/spore-shiggy-honored-with-jim-henson-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/15/spore-shiggy-honored-with-jim-henson-awards/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Shigeru Miyamoto and Spore have been recognized by The Jim Henson Company as part of their annual "Jim Henson Honors" awards. The legendary game designer was bestowed the Celebration Honor, which goes to an "individual, organization or product that makes the world a better place by inspiring people to celebrate life." Mario, Donkey, Wii ... yeah, you know the drill.

As for Spore, it took home the Technology Honor, probably because it allowed everyone to create their favorite Star Wars characters or giant penis monsters. The other not so game-related awards went to artist Shepard Falrey (Creativity Honor) and the Center for Puppetry Arts Distance Learning Center (Community Honor).

Congratulations to everyone. We can't think of a better way to celebrate than with the video after the break.

Gallery: One week with Spore Creatures

Moogle!EbolicOcto-GrimaceWeeglerMelliphon

Continue reading Spore, Shiggy honored with Jim Henson awards

JoystiqSpore, Shiggy honored with Jim Henson awards originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jan 2009 20:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DShensonjim-hensonMacmaxismiyamotoPCshigeru-miyamotoshiggysporeWiiwill-wrightThu, 15 Jan 2009 20:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Touching is (not) good: a Miyamoto-signed Phat]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/touching-is-not-good-a-miyamoto-signed-phat/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/touching-is-not-good-a-miyamoto-signed-phat/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/touching-is-not-good-a-miyamoto-signed-phat/#commentsFiled under:


When Swedish eBayer Mikael was lucky enough to win a Shigeru Miyamoto-autographed DS at E3 2005, he did the only sensible thing: he sealed it away from the harmful effects of light and dust forever. Or at least, until now.

This pristine, fingerprint-free Pearl White model is currently on eBay, where it lies at the $760 mark with over a week to go. Is it worth that? For something you're likely not going to use, probably not, but this is easily one of the nicest autographed DSes we've seen. The combination of gold on white reeks of class, and Miyamoto's famous signature is, as usual, fun and playful. The fact that it's a Phat only increases its appeal to us.

See also: A very special deal on a Miyamoto-signed DS.


[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqTouching is (not) good: a Miyamoto-signed Phat originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autographebaymiyamotoshigeru-miyamotowhiteMon, 12 Jan 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Take the hint?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/10/wii-warm-up-take-the-hint/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/10/wii-warm-up-take-the-hint/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/10/wii-warm-up-take-the-hint/#commentsFiled under:


We're basically too dense to understand all the details, but a patent popped up for an in-game system that seems designed to provide hint movies on demand for puzzles, and also to play games for the player to a certain extent, on a time delay. The idea is clearly to let people with less experience, skill, or time enjoy longer games, without the actual difficulty having to take a hit.

But what do you think? Does it ruin the game to give you the option to make it easier? Does the game become de facto nerfed due to a failure of self-control? Or do you feel some other justification for shutting the extremely casual out of something like Zelda? We're sure some of you will. Some of you, on the other hand, may welcome such bridging efforts.

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Take the hint? originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 Jan 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualmiyamotopatentzeldaSat, 10 Jan 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New patent describes Miyamoto-developed hint system]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/new-patent-describes-miyamoto-developed-hint-system/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/new-patent-describes-miyamoto-developed-hint-system/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/new-patent-describes-miyamoto-developed-hint-system/#commentsFiled under:


While the language used in patents is miles above our heads, we feel obligated to try to report on it, because it's apparently Miyamoto's design, and it's potentially quite cool. If we understand correctly, Miyamoto has invented a system that allows players of vastly different skill levels to play adventure games like Zelda, with the ability to skip or receive hints at difficult areas. In addition to accommodating various skill levels, this is designed for people who don't have a lot of time to play games. In effect, it makes the skill level almost totally configurable.

One component of the idea is low-resolution "hint movies" that display the solutions to difficult puzzles at the player's request. In addition, there is a "digest" component that allows players just to watch the game's storyline up to the point of their choosing -- but only after a specified time period (presumably to encourage people to play the game for some number of hours before watching). Finally, there's a DVD-style "chapter" ability that allows players to start the game from a previous "scene" -- rather like the save system in the new Pikmin remake.

All the associated images use a Zelda-like game "Legend of OO" to demonstrate the concepts, but that might just be a context used to help explain the concepts. But if you want to call "OMG NEXT ZELDA CONFIRMED WITH HINT SYSTEM THING," have fun! And if the USPTO image viewer doesn't work for you, check the linked NeoGAF thread for a few images.

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqNew patent describes Miyamoto-developed hint system originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>miyamotopatentzeldaFri, 09 Jan 2009 14:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto unsure about next Zelda announcement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/miyamoto-unsure-about-next-zelda-announcement/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/miyamoto-unsure-about-next-zelda-announcement/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/miyamoto-unsure-about-next-zelda-announcement/#commentsFiled under:

There's an entertaining interview with Shigeru Miyamoto over at the Official Nintendo Magazine site, in which Shiggy mostly comes across as a bumbling, endearing eccentric: apparently, he "strummed on an invisible guitar" for the entire interview, and voiced his suspicions that his cat is hiding games from the Miyamoto family. Ha.

Anyway, the article is mainly designed to promote Wii Music, but there is the odd very vague comment about the next Zelda. The opportunists at ONM couldn't resist mentioning the 'Z' word, but Miyamoto wasn't budging too much. "I'm really not sure when we'll be able to make a public announcement on that," he said, adding, "I can't even say if the next E3 will be the right opportunity to do so. But rest assured, our teams are working on new projects right now."

So the next Zelda ... might not be at E3 next year! If that's the case, we could reasonably expect to see something at Nintendo's fall conference(s). We'd at least like to have a peek next year -- having downloaded Ocarina of Time from the Virtual Console over the weekend (spoiler: it's still unfathomably brilliant), this blogger is aching for a new entry in the series.

Gallery: The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

JoystiqMiyamoto unsure about next Zelda announcement originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3legend-of-zeldamiyamotoshigeru-miyamotoshiggywii-musiczeldaTue, 16 Dec 2008 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto still hopeful Wii Music will catch on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/01/miyamoto-still-hopeful-wii-music-will-catch-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/01/miyamoto-still-hopeful-wii-music-will-catch-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/01/miyamoto-still-hopeful-wii-music-will-catch-on/#commentsFiled under:


Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto recently conducted a rather large Q&A with Edge, talking about all kinds of fascinating things. Actually, to tell you the truth, the man could talk about used Q-tips and we'd still find it fascinating. To call it a crush would be a severe understatement.

It's no secret that Wii Music hasn't been selling too well, but Miyamoto still has hope that the game will be a success. "I think a very large audience can enjoy Wii Music," Miyamoto said, adding that when Nintendo demoed the game, "many took to it." That can't really be said for the critics, however, who've not enjoyed the game overall.

"I really appreciate that the gaming media has a different view of anything as new as Wii Music today," Miyamoto stated. He said these scores help show "how different and unique Wii Music is" and that he has this "big ambition" for the game and "that it can eventually be something very influential so that it might be able to influence what music means in the world."

It's a pretty lengthy interview, so click here to read the whole thing. It's always nice to get a glimpse into Miyamoto's mind.

JoystiqMiyamoto still hopeful Wii Music will catch on originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Dec 2008 13:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>miyamotomusicrhythmshigeru-miyamotowii-musicMon, 01 Dec 2008 13:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto: We're not 'soft on graphics']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/miyamoto-were-not-soft-on-graphics/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/miyamoto-were-not-soft-on-graphics/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/10/miyamoto-were-not-soft-on-graphics/#commentsFiled under: ,

During a recent interview, Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto was quick to stick up for Nintendo's latest console and its graphical capabilities. It's one of the most criticized points of the console, as you're well aware, but Miyamoto thinks it's more than capable of getting the job done, stating that "When it comes to specific points such as generating high definition graphics we might appear to be rather relaxed and soft on graphics," further adding "the fact of the matter is that Wii is capable enough to cater to the needs of these hardcore gamers in terms of gameplay content as well as the graphical content, so I really don't want people to be concerned about that kind of attitude."

When asked about a new version of Wii with HD, Miyamoto wanted everyone to know that Nintendo isn't behind the times. "the fact of the matter is that technology is evolving all the time and in Japan, for example in the year 2010 all the analogue broadcast will be stopped and shifted into the digital broadcasting. So many things are taking place and we are working in terms of the changes of the technologies all the time." So, Nintendo isn't totally out of touch, and we could see a HD version of Wii release, but will we? "I'm afraid we cannot confirm what we are doing today."

Of course, Miyamoto.

[Via CVG]

JoystiqMiyamoto: We're not 'soft on graphics' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>graphicshdhigh-definitionmiyamotoshigeru-miyamotowii-hdwiihdMon, 10 Nov 2008 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto: Portal a triumph, Mario Galaxy 'conservative' in ways]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/miyamoto-portal-a-triumph-mario-galaxy-conservative-in-ways/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/miyamoto-portal-a-triumph-mario-galaxy-conservative-in-ways/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/miyamoto-portal-a-triumph-mario-galaxy-conservative-in-ways/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

He may not be intimately familiar with Ratchet and Whatshisface, but at least revered game designer Shigeru Miyamoto has had the pleasure of tumbling through dimensional shortcuts and outsmarting acerbic computers. In an interesting chat with MTV Multiplayer's Stephen Totilo, Miyamoto admits that he, like most rational human beings, thought Portal was "an amazing game."

Games that go without the "amazing" label? The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, which the Mario maker describes as "not a bad game, by any means," but one that felt "like there was something missing." And while Miyamoto submits that Super Mario Galaxy did "some things that were very new and were very unique," he ultimately feels that some elements seemed "somewhat conservative."

And it's at this point that we strongly advise you to open an umbrella or don a durable raincoat. When faced with the choice of vehemently defending two prominent Nintendo games or agreeing with the creator, fanboy brains tend to explode quite violently.

JoystiqMiyamoto: Portal a triumph, Mario Galaxy 'conservative' in ways originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Legend-of-ZeldaMiyamotoPCPortalPS3Shigeru-MiyamotoSuper-Mario-GalaxyTwilight-PrincessWiiXbox-360ZeldaThu, 30 Oct 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Iwata and staff discuss Nintendo DSi development, rumors of SDHC support abound]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/iwata-and-staff-discuss-nintendo-dsi-development-rumors-of-sdhc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/iwata-and-staff-discuss-nintendo-dsi-development-rumors-of-sdhc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/iwata-and-staff-discuss-nintendo-dsi-development-rumors-of-sdhc/#commentsFiled under: ,


The latest entry in the "Iwata Asks" series has returned with an up-close look at the Nintendo DSi. For this exercise, Iwata carefully prepared a pot of green tea (possibly), sat down with three chaps from Nintendo's technology division (definitely), Yui Ehara, Kentaro Santa, and Masato Kawabara, and then talked some DSi.

As usual, all sorts of interesting nuggets get dropped. Apparently, a new DS was discussed in late-2006 (just a few months after the DS Lite launched!), the chipset was basically completed by February 2007, and for quite some time the DSi was going to have one rotating camera, and two cartridge slots. As it happens, Iwata was concerned that a rotating device would break easily, and believed the extra cartridge slot made the DSi too big, so both got the chop.

There was also some brief discussion of the DSi supporting SD cards. Supposedly, it was Shigeru Miyamoto himself who requested this feature, promising that he'd find a way to utilize it. In related news, a DSi spec sheet has appeared at NeoGAF with the SDHC logo on it, suggesting the new handheld supports the extended SD format. The DSi may only be two days away, but there's clearly plenty we're still not aware of!

Source: Iwata asks!
Source: Spec sheet hints!


[Via Tiny Cartridge]

JoystiqIwata and staff discuss Nintendo DSi development, rumors of SDHC support abound originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsiiwataiwata-asksmiyamotonintendo-dsisdsdhcshigeru-miyamotoThu, 30 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST