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[Rumor: Target cutting Wii price to $170 on April 18]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/rumor-target-cutting-wii-price-to-170-on-april-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/rumor-target-cutting-wii-price-to-170-on-april-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/rumor-target-cutting-wii-price-to-170-on-april-18/#comments We kind of expected to see additional evidence of an upcoming Wii price drop if it's true, but now we have conflicting evidence. While rumors currently have the system dropping to $149.99 on May 15, images posted on GenGame show what appear to be an internal Target communication about the price changing to $169.99 this Monday.

The Target information refers to "Black Wii Console with Motion Plus Controller," which could either be a semi-accurate description of the most recent Wii hardware configuration (which includes a Wii Remote Plus), or a previous iteration which came with Wii Sports Resort, a Wii Remote, and a MotionPlus add-on.

If it's the latter (and these images are real), then this is a clearance of outdated hardware; if it's the former, it's a likely signal of a manufacturer price drop. In either case, it means the possibility of cheaper Wii hardware.

JoystiqRumor: Target cutting Wii price to $170 on April 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 18:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>motionplusnintendoprice-cuttargetwiiFri, 15 Apr 2011 18:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Virtua Tennis 4 lobbed to retail May 10]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/virtua-tennis-4-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/virtua-tennis-4-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/virtua-tennis-4-release-date/#comments Sega is sending Virtua Tennis 4 for PS3, Xbox 360 and Wii over the net May 10. Now if don't know the release date, it's your own fault. (And with that, we're out of tennis jokes.)

Continue reading Virtua Tennis 4 lobbed to retail May 10

JoystiqVirtua Tennis 4 lobbed to retail May 10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 12:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosoftmotionplusnintendoplaystationplaystation-moveps3q2-2011release-datesegaVirtua-Tennis-4wiixboxFri, 25 Feb 2011 12:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Virtua Tennis 4 coming to PS3, Xbox 360, and Wii this spring]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/virtua-tennis-4-coming-to-ps3-xbox-360-and-wii-this-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/virtua-tennis-4-coming-to-ps3-xbox-360-and-wii-this-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/virtua-tennis-4-coming-to-ps3-xbox-360-and-wii-this-spring/#commentsSega has lobbed out its official announcement for Virtua Tennis 4. Previously announced only at a Sony conference, the new Sega note reveals that the tennis sequel is bouncing to Xbox 360 and Wii as well, all due in spring 2011. All three versions will include motion-control capabilities -- the PS3 version's Move compatibility was known (and motion controls for the Wii are obvious, though they will be "MotionPlus" controls), but this will be the first true tennis "sim" to make use of Kinect, since March's Top Spin 4 will not be Kinect compatible.

In addition to those new waving-at-the-game options, Virtua Tennis 4 also brings a new "World Tour" mode that builds a unique career path based on your decisions on the court. Spoiler alert: Deciding to win more will result in a better career. "Match momentum" is also new, adding an on-screen gauge that builds your player's "confidence" as it fills. The new online mode provides tournaments and matchmaking services for "the most engaging online experience for tennis gamers ever." Combined with the motion controls, that's going to result in a lot of really awkward-sounding, breathless voice chat.

Gallery: Virtua Tennis 4 (Screenshots)

Continue reading Virtua Tennis 4 coming to PS3, Xbox 360, and Wii this spring

JoystiqVirtua Tennis 4 coming to PS3, Xbox 360, and Wii this spring originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosoftmotionplusnintendoplaystationplaystation-moveps3q2-2011release-datesegaVirtua-Tennis-4wiixboxThu, 20 Jan 2011 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[FlingSmash review: Just a fling]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/flingsmash-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/flingsmash-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/flingsmash-review/#commentsIn general, I don't believe in factoring price into an evaluation of a game's quality. The artistic and entertainment value of a game is completely separate from its, you know, value. But there was basically never a point during my time with FlingSmash that I wasn't thinking about how it was about right at $10 -- which, if you take out the $40 that a Wii Remote Plus would cost on its own, is its effective cost.

In my defense, Nintendo must have looked at it the same way, since it is only selling the game in bundles with controllers, despite all indication that it was originally conceived as a "normal" retail game (it's been in development at least since October of 2008, when it was announced at Nintendo's media summit, and the E3-era box art showed it being sold separately from the MotionPlus). The production values are nice, but it bears the design hallmarks you'd expect from a budget game: it's extremely brief (like three hours), it's shallow, and it's built around one reasonably insane idea. Luckily, FlingSmash falls on the "stupid fun" side of the superficiality continuum I've just invented.

Continue reading FlingSmash review: Just a fling

JoystiqFlingSmash review: Just a fling originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artoonflingsmashmotionplusnintendowiiwii-remote-plusMon, 08 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Remote Plus and FlingSmash launch in Europe in November]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/wii-remote-plus-and-flingsmash-launch-in-europe-in-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/wii-remote-plus-and-flingsmash-launch-in-europe-in-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/wii-remote-plus-and-flingsmash-launch-in-europe-in-november/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nintendo will release the Wii Remote Plus, which combines a Wii Remote and MotionPlus add-on, in Europe on November 5 -- six days before the Japanese release date. The new controller will be available in black, white, pink and blue. Nintendo has yet to announce a price, but the price in Japan is equivalent to a normal Wiimote, so it'll probably be a similar deal in Europe.

If you want to get a Wii Remote Plus early, and if you have the money, a red one will be included with the Super Mario Bros. anniversary edition Wii on October 29. If you'd like to pick up a game with your Wii Remote Plus, but not a whole system, you'll be able to buy a FlingSmash bundle on November 19.

JoystiqWii Remote Plus and FlingSmash launch in Europe in November originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Oct 2010 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artooneuropeflingsmashmotionplusnintendoq4-2010release-datewiiwii-remote-pluswiimoteFri, 15 Oct 2010 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Iwata confirms Wii Remote Plus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/iwata-confirms-wii-remote-plus/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/iwata-confirms-wii-remote-plus/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/29/iwata-confirms-wii-remote-plus/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nintendo president Satoru Iwata confirmed that the company is indeed developing the Wii Remote Plus, integrating Wii MotionPlus into a much handier all-in-one design. No release details, but FlingSmash hits Japan on November 18 and the device has been spotted as a pack-in with the game Stateside.

JoystiqIwata confirms Wii Remote Plus originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Sep 2010 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flingsmashhardwaremotionplusnintendonintendo-conference-2010Satoru-Iwatawiiwii-motionpluswii-remotewii-remote-plusWed, 29 Sep 2010 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PDC World Championship Darts: Pro Tour gets Move, MotionPlus support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/25/pdc-world-championship-darts-pro-tour-gets-move-motionplus-sup/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/25/pdc-world-championship-darts-pro-tour-gets-move-motionplus-sup/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/25/pdc-world-championship-darts-pro-tour-gets-move-motionplus-sup/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The latest iteration of O-Games' "phenomenally successful" PDC World Championship Darts franchise is getting two no-brainer features: support for PS3's Move controller and Wii's MotionPlus add-on.

Continue reading PDC World Championship Darts: Pro Tour gets Move, MotionPlus support

JoystiqPDC World Championship Darts: Pro Tour gets Move, MotionPlus support originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>motionplusnintendoo-gamespdc-world-championship-darts-pro-tourplaystationplaystation-moveps3wiiwii-motionpluswiimotionplusSat, 25 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Wii Remote Plus' shown on FlingSmash packaging]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/wii-remote-plus-shown-on-flingsmash-packaging/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/wii-remote-plus-shown-on-flingsmash-packaging/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/wii-remote-plus-shown-on-flingsmash-packaging/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Though Nintendo's quirky, somewhat under-the-radar throwing game FlingSmash doesn't seem like the most likely partner for the launch of a new accessory, it would appear that's exactly how Nintendo is handling it. The GameStop listing for the Artoon-developed Wii game shows that it's bundled with a "Wii Remote Plus," and still due November 7. Given FlingSmash's MotionPlus requirement, we can safely guess that the Wii Remote Plus is a Wiimote with the MotionPlus already all up in it -- a trick we've seen from third parties.

Nintendo confirmed the existence of the controller to Eurogamer, declining to offer any more details. No GameStop listing was found for just the controller, leading us to suspect that FlingSmash was always intended as a pack-in with the Wii Remote Plus (its Wii Play, so to speak) -- which neatly answers the question of why Nintendo would make FlingSmash a full-priced retail game. We're contacting Nintendo for more details, since it probably knows a bit more about its own release plans than GameStop.

Update: Nintendo has "nothing to announce at this time," a representative told Joystiq.

Joystiq'Wii Remote Plus' shown on FlingSmash packaging originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artoonflingsmashgamestopmotionplusnintendowiiwii-remotewii-remote-plusFri, 24 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy Metroid: Other M at GameStop, get $20 off MotionPlus remote bundle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/metroid-other-m-gamestop-motionplus-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/metroid-other-m-gamestop-motionplus-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/metroid-other-m-gamestop-motionplus-deal/#comments Mom: Hi there, my son was asking for a new Wii game. Meteoroid or something.

GameStop clerk: He's probably looking for Metroid: Other M, the hot new action game from Nintendo.

Mom: Yes, that's the one! I'll take a copy, please.

Clerk: Ma'am, you're in luck, because we're offering $20 off the Wii Remote MotionPlus bundle with every purchase of Metroid: Other M.

Mom: That's okay. Geoffrey already has a remote.

Clerk: But this is MotionPlus. It adds a whole new level of sensitivity to the Wii experience!

Mom: Oh, so this meteoroid game needs that then?

Clerk: Well, no, but ...

Mom: It enhances it somehow?

Clerk: Not really.

Mom: Then why would I want that?

Clerk: ...

Mom: ... Just bag the game.

JoystiqBuy Metroid: Other M at GameStop, get $20 off MotionPlus remote bundle originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GameStopMetroidMetroid-Other-MMotionPlusnintendowiiTue, 31 Aug 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Conduit 2 includes optional MotionPlus support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/conduit-2-includes-optional-motionplus-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/conduit-2-includes-optional-motionplus-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/conduit-2-includes-optional-motionplus-support/#commentsFiled under: , ,

High Voltage Software experimented with support for the MotionPlus peripheral in The Conduit, but omitted it from the final game. Sega announced today that the sequel will allow players to augment the game's controls with the underused gyroscope peripheral.

According to the announcement, in addition to general response improvements, the MotionPlus will improve "edge tracking and transitions to pointer control" -- which sounds like it should make the experience of accidentally pointing off screen while turning somewhat less infuriating.

If you are living a MotionMinus life and still want to play Conduit 2, don't worry: it's totally optional. Conduit 2 will be out this fall.

JoystiqConduit 2 includes optional MotionPlus support originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jun 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Conduit-2FPSHigh-Voltage-SoftwareMotionPlusnintendoSegaThe-Conduit-2wiiThu, 10 Jun 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Swords' is a Wii game about swords]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/29/swords-is-a-wii-game-about-swords/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/29/swords-is-a-wii-game-about-swords/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/29/swords-is-a-wii-game-about-swords/#commentsFiled under:


click to see the sabery screens
If using the Wii Remote and MotionPlus to control a sword sounds like the sword of thing you'd be into, you should consider Majesco's new game Swords -- because that's basically the whole game.

Swords, developed by Panic Button, is a time-traveling arena combat game in which you fight sword practitioners from different cultures and time periods, including a Viking and Sir Lancelot. Then, having sufficiently disrupted the timeline, you take a new sword from your defeated opponent Mega Man-style, using its new abilities against your next historical adversary. When not hacking away at people, you can train with your sensei or perform drills -- like fighting zombies.

If the idea of a MotionPlus-based lightsaber dueling game excites you, this seems like a pretty close substitute. Plus, it's got the most hilariously straightforward title in recent memory. Swords will be thrust into stores this September.

Gallery: Swords (Wii)

Joystiq'Swords' is a Wii game about swords originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fightingMacmajescomotionplusNintendopanic-buttonswordsWiiThu, 29 Apr 2010 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo sued by exergaming company IA Labs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/14/nintendo-sued-by-exergaming-company-ia-labs/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/14/nintendo-sued-by-exergaming-company-ia-labs/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/14/nintendo-sued-by-exergaming-company-ia-labs/#comments Was it something we said? No sooner does Nintendo close the book on the two-year-old Anascape suit than does the prolific peripheral manufacturer get slapped with another legal challenge. Gamasutra has obtained documentation of a lawsuit filed against Nintendo, on April 2, by exergaming company InterAction Laboratories, a.k.a. IA Labs, a.k.a. Powergrid Fitness, for alleged patent infringement.

In typical dramatic legalese, the suit cries out that IA Labs has been "irreparably harmed" by Nintendo's violation of two of its patents through a long list of Wii products. Here goes: the Wii system itself and its primary controllers, the Wiimote and the Nunchuk, and the MotionPlus add-on; Wii Fit, its expansion pack, Wii Fit Plus, and its peripheral, the Balance Board; and the Wii Zapper. Phew! Are we forgetting anything?

Oh, yes -- the Wii Wheel. Uh-huh, that circular piece of plastic is allegedly infringing upon a patent for either (1) "Computer interactive isometric exercise system and method for operatively interconnecting the exercise system to a computer system for use as a peripheral" or (2) "Force measurement system for an isometric exercise device." IA Labs claims that these two patents are used in a number of its products, including the Kilowatt Sport and Exer-Station controller. Both have won an award at separate CES events.

If you're real up on your Wii peripheral pitches, you will recall the Sqweeze, a ThighMaster-esque device for your hands, developed by IA Labs and introduced in late 2008. While a PC version appears to be available, the Wii iteration never made it to market, perhaps evidence that the relationship between IA Labs and Nintendo soured long ago. Documentation from the recent suit reveals emails from 2007-2008 between the two companies, which had once been in talks for IA Labs to license its technology to Nintendo.

JoystiqNintendo sued by exergaming company IA Labs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Apr 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardexergaminginteraction-laboratorieslawsuitlegalmotionplusNintendonunchukpatentpatent-infringementperipheralspowergrid-fitnesssqweezeWiiwii-fit-pluswii-wheelwiimotewit-fitzapperWed, 14 Apr 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: Red Steel 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/review-red-steel-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/review-red-steel-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/review-red-steel-2/#comments
Click to enlarge
I'm not going to sugar coat it: Red Steel 2 isn't a hardcore first-person shooter. In fact, it's not actually an FPS per se, unless you take the acronym to mean "First-Person Sword-er." What Ubisoft Paris has made here is an arcade-style game that most closely resembles a good old-fashioned hack-'n-slash side-scroller -- only viewed through the eyes of its protagonist.

There's some light exploration -- even some hidden areas and items to be found -- but Red Steel 2 is, at its heart, a brawler that relies heavily on combos, special moves and finishers. There's some shooting, but it plays only the slightest supporting role to the main attraction: Swinging the Wiimote around like a sword and looking cool (on-screen, at least) in a stylized, sci-fi western world.

Gallery: Red Steel 2 (03-23-10)

Continue reading Review: Red Steel 2

JoystiqReview: Red Steel 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>motionplusNintendored-steelred-steel-2ubisoftubisoft-parisWiiwii-motionplusTue, 23 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Soft, realistic' Wii football peripheral about as silly as you'd expect]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/wii-football-peripheral/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/wii-football-peripheral/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/wii-football-peripheral/#comments Look, folks, we'll level with you -- we feel a bit silly writing about this "soft, realistic" football attachment for Wiimotes. How do we adequately introduce CTA's "Soft-football for Wii" when the picture above (it's sold sans attachable MotionPlus, mind you) already says so much?

Now, you might be thinking to yourself, "This thing sounds like pure madness, but I feel like I've heard about someone imagining exactly the same thing before." And you'd be right, as Nintendo filed a patent for just such a peripheral last year. Beaten by CTA? Why'd you drop the ball, Nintendo?

[Via Gadget Venue]

Joystiq'Soft, realistic' Wii football peripheral about as silly as you'd expect originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ctamotionplusNintendoperipheralssoft-football-for-wiiWiiwii-footballTue, 23 Mar 2010 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cut a rug with Red Steel 2's enemies in the latest trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/20/cut-a-rug-with-red-steel-2s-enemies-in-the-latest-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/20/cut-a-rug-with-red-steel-2s-enemies-in-the-latest-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/20/cut-a-rug-with-red-steel-2s-enemies-in-the-latest-trailer/#commentsWell sure, the baddies from Red Steel 2's "Enemies" trailer aren't quite dancing, per se, but there is quite a bit of fancy footwork going on -- not to mention tons of other stuff getting cut, as you might imagine. From the adorably named "Katakara" to the not so subtly named "Ninja," it seems that Red Steel 2 is full of flamboyantly exaggerated personalities, all of which are ready to put a sword or bullet through you at a moment's notice. Oh, and if you were wondering how your foes will stop your combination of bullets and sword charging full speed at them, you'll want to pay extra close attention at the end there (spoilers: they handle it like jedi).

Gallery: Red Steel 2 (Wii)

JoystiqCut a rug with Red Steel 2's enemies in the latest trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 20 Mar 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enemiesmotionplusNintendored-steelred-steel-2trailerubisoftvideoWiiSat, 20 Mar 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Reggie: Nintendo doesn't like pushing control schemes on devs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/reggie-nintendo-doesnt-like-pushing-control-schemes-on-devs/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/reggie-nintendo-doesnt-like-pushing-control-schemes-on-devs/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/reggie-nintendo-doesnt-like-pushing-control-schemes-on-devs/#comments The thing about Wii MotionPlus is that there haven't been a whole lot of games supporting it. Outside of last summer's Wii Sports Resort (and upcoming Red Steel 2 and Flingsmash) there's really only some sports games utilizing the tech. According to a recent interview with Reggie over at MTV Multiplayer, it's because Nintendo isn't really pushing for any kind of control scheme from third parties.

"What's unique with Nintendo is we don't force our developers to stick to a particular type of control scheme, and you've seen that -- everything from the new Metroid title to be single remote driven to FlingSmash utilizing the Wii MotionPlus," he said. "So it's all about what's right for the game." While we're inclined to agree with the latter part, we still wonder why nothing is using MotionPlus -- especially since it's something that greatly improves the core functionality of the Wiimote. And considering almost everyone has MotionPlus by now (or soon will, if they're Walmart shoppers looking for a great bundle), why not develop with MotionPlus in mind?

As for more MotionPlus games from Nintendo, Reggie teases "more titles that are coming" and that it "continues to be a core part of what we do." So, the take away is this: even though Nintendo just released a new piece of hardware, it's not too worried about supporting it with content -- kinda like every other peripheral the company has ever released. Yeah, we're talking about you, Wii Speak!

Continue reading Reggie: Nintendo doesn't like pushing control schemes on devs

JoystiqReggie: Nintendo doesn't like pushing control schemes on devs originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Mar 2010 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flingsmashmotionplusNintendored-steel-2ubisoftWiiwii-motionpluswii-sports-resortFri, 19 Mar 2010 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Molyneux: Motion gaming is making devs 'sweat']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/molyneux-motion-gaming-is-making-devs-sweat/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/molyneux-motion-gaming-is-making-devs-sweat/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/12/molyneux-motion-gaming-is-making-devs-sweat/#comments You hear that, developers? You should be shakin' in yer boots -- motion-based gaming is going to force you to throw away everything you've ever learned about game design and start anew. At least that's what Lionhead's Peter Molyneux (not so exaggeratedly) had to say when quizzed on the subject of the "arms race" between the big three for waggle supremacy. "All of this stuff is making all the designers sweat -- I've met lots of designers at GDC, and we're all very bleary-eyed at the moment because every rule we've got, we're having to throw away," Molyneux told Eurogamer.

And understandably so. Between WIi's established console dominance (not to mention last year's MotionPlus add-on), this week's unveiling of PlayStation Move, and Microsoft's Project Natal this holiday, there's a lot to work with. It's this problem, though, that Molyneux believes will forge new types of game experiences in the years to come. "I don't think the first wave of these motion-control titles will be what you expect .... just as with every hardware chain, it's the second wave where they usually come up with stuff that's interesting ... so the second wave could be really cool."

And as far as Natal in Fable 3 goes, the eccentric developer kept mum on the specifics, only offering, "You can expect us to use Natal to make you laugh and to surprise you and to give you this feeling of power -- there are some very obvious things we could do, like controlling the GUI in Natal, and it doesn't really excite me." Tom Cruise will be so disappointed.

JoystiqMolyneux: Motion gaming is making devs 'sweat' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fablefable-3game-developmentgdcMicrosoftmotion-controlmotionpluspeter-molyneuxplaystation-moveproject-natalwaggleXbox-360Fri, 12 Mar 2010 15:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Tiger Woods 11 to support PlayStation Move]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/tiger-woods-pga-tour-11-to-support-playstation-motion-controller/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/tiger-woods-pga-tour-11-to-support-playstation-motion-controller/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/tiger-woods-pga-tour-11-to-support-playstation-motion-controller/#commentsMuch like the star it's named for, it seems the Tiger Woods PGA Tour franchise isn't adverse to trying new things. EA has announced that the next iteration, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11, will support the PlayStation Move motion controller to "give gamers an authentic interactive swing experience."

There aren't any other details about Move implementation at the moment, but the game is slated for release on June 8 -- well before Sony's motion controller's projected fall release. (And before you ask, no mention has been made of support for Microsoft's Project Natal.)

It may be less flashy, but series fans may be interested to hear the game will also feature the Ryder Cup, allowing for two 12-man teams to face off against each other.

We say 12-man, but we guess it could be 12 women against 12 men, right? Heck, maybe even 12 women against one man. Can you imagine, one guy trying to keep up with all those women? We sure can't.

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11 will be available on June 8 for Wii (with MotionPlus support), Xbox 360, PS3 and iPhone.

Update: Changed "PlayStation Motion Controller" references to "PlayStation Move," the now official name for Sony's device.

[Editor's Note: EA's press release only included a box art asset for the Xbox 360 version. Go figure.]

JoystiqTiger Woods 11 to support PlayStation Move originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleeaEA-SportsElectronic-ArtsiPodMicrosoftmotionplusNintendoplaystation-arcplaystation-motion-controllerplaystation-moveproject-natalrelease-datesonytiger-woodstiger-woods-pga-tour-11WiiXbox-360Tue, 09 Mar 2010 13:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Walmart-exclusive Wii bundle includes Wii Sports Resort]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/walmart-exclusive-wii-bundle-includes-wii-sports-resort/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/walmart-exclusive-wii-bundle-includes-wii-sports-resort/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/walmart-exclusive-wii-bundle-includes-wii-sports-resort/#comments Walmart just announced an exclusive Wii bundle, containing both Wii Sports and Wii Sports Resort, as well as the necessary MotionPlus attachment. It'll be available in stores today, and on Walmart.com this Sunday. There's no reason not to pick this one up instead of the normal Wii package: this new bundle sells for the same $199 price!

According to Walmart, it'll only be available "while supplies last," which, given the history of the Wii platform, could be a surprisingly short time.

Update: We were additionally informed by a Walmart representative that the bundle contains "[one] normal Wii console you would purchase -- comes with all the same components -- for $199, except that you're getting Wii Sports Resort (with the packaged Wii MotionPlus)." Still quite a deal!

JoystiqWalmart-exclusive Wii bundle includes Wii Sports Resort originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlemotionplusNintendospecial-value-editionwalmartWiiwii-sportswii-sports-resortFri, 05 Mar 2010 17:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: FlingSmash]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/hands-on-flingsmash/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/hands-on-flingsmash/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/hands-on-flingsmash/#comments

click to enlarge After playing a few levels of Span Smasher FlingSmash, I had finally answered an important question -- "What the heck is it?" -- but was left with another unanswered. It's true: This is a game of tossing a ball (well, a ball-like character) against blocks in side-scrolling stages, using the power of Wii MotionPlus to ... more accurately toss the ball-thing. (It actually comes in pretty handy for hitting small targets, such as gems and coins.)

Playing it felt like tossing a ball against a brick wall, only sideways, which I assure you is as strange as it sounds. It was good enough fun; a very simple arcade game that is a nice change from the typical paddle-based block-breaker. I couldn't help but wonder, though, why it's destined to be a retail release and not a WiiWare title.

Gallery: FlingSmash

JoystiqHands-on: FlingSmash originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 01:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artoonflingsmashmotionplusnintendo-media-summitnintendo-media-summit-2010Thu, 25 Feb 2010 01:52:00 EST<![CDATA[What exactly is 'FlingSmash'?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/what-exactly-is-flingsmash/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/what-exactly-is-flingsmash/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/what-exactly-is-flingsmash/#comments
Smash the image to fling yourself into the gallery.
Nintendo released news about a bunch of big Wii hits today: Super Mario Galaxy 2, Metroid: Other M, Monster Hunter Tri, FlingSmash, Cave Story ... wait, what? Okay, so FlingSmash doesn't have the name recognition of those other games, but if you've been watching Nintendo carefully over the last couple of trade shows, you've seen it.

FlingSmash is a new name for Span Smasher, a MotionPlus-exclusive game about throwing a character named Zip through side-scrolling stages, hitting obstacles and enemies pinball-style. It was shown at E3 alongside games like Line Attack Heroes, which was conspicuously absent from today's proceedings.

FlingSmash features play for up to two simultaneously (provided, of course, you have two MotionPlusses) and is currently scheduled for a release sometime in summer 2010.

Gallery: FlingSmash

JoystiqWhat exactly is 'FlingSmash'? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artoonflingsmashmotionplusNintendonintendo-media-summit-2010release-datespan-smasherWiiWed, 24 Feb 2010 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation 3 Slim sweeps the 2009 Engadget Awards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/playstation-3-slim-sweeps-the-2009-engadget-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/playstation-3-slim-sweeps-the-2009-engadget-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/playstation-3-slim-sweeps-the-2009-engadget-awards/#comments Up against the likes of the ... um ... Popcorn Hour C200 and the ... erm ... Asus O!Play (we'd better leave the gadget stuff to the folks who know what they're talking about), Sony's PlayStation 3 Slim has triumphed as the 2009 Engadget Awards winner in both "Game Console of the Year" and "Home Entertainment Device of the Year" categories. In fairness to the other game consoles, the Home Entertainment Device category didn't exactly feature Microsoft and Nintendo devices (the awards are for devices specifically released in 2009, as you might imagine), so the closest competitor (at 9.6 percent) was the HP MediaSmart Home Server -- the PS3 Slim took a commanding 54.3 percent of the vote.

In terms of the Game Console of the Year award, the margins were significantly ... slimmer, with the PS3 taking 43.3 percent of the vote, followed close behind by the Xbox 360 Modern Warfare 2 Edition at 31.2 percent. The Slim also made the Editor's Choice top pick for Console of the Year, rounding out the love fest. Also of note, Wii's MotionPlus landed on both lists as well for "Game Accessory of the Year," beating out the Modern Warfare 2 night vision goggles by just 4.7 percent. Your giant golden USB hubs will be mailed out shortly, winners! Congrats!

JoystiqPlayStation 3 Slim sweeps the 2009 Engadget Awards originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asus-oplayawardsengadgetengadget-readers-choice-awardsmodern-warfare-2motionplusNintendopopcorn-hour-c200ps3-slimWiiMon, 22 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Red Steel 2 (2009)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/red-steel-2-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/red-steel-2-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/red-steel-2-preview/#comments Dear 2010,

It's a chilly December day here in New York City. Ubisoft has stopped by with a copy of Red Steel 2, forcing me to adhere to a strict embargo, one that ends in a brand new decade: February 22, 2010. I hope with the new decade comes flying cars, robot servants and -- perhaps more reasonably -- a better version of Red Steel 2.

You see, here in 2009, Red Steel 2 continues to control poorly. Once again, Red Steel fails to capitalize on the dream of "1:1" sword controls, as Wiimote swings still translate into predetermined animations. Although Red Steel 2 requires the MotionPlus accessory, the game doesn't demand precision or finesse; all enemies are seemingly killed the same way: by stabbing them in the back. Battles are largely reduced to waiting for an enemy to attack, dodging and then swinging wildly at the enemy's weak point. Any other method seems ineffective, with gun play serving a largely decorative purpose. (Enemies seem to block every shot you fire.)

Gallery: Red Steel 2 (Wii)

Continue reading Hands-on: Red Steel 2 (2009)

JoystiqHands-on: Red Steel 2 (2009) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>motionplusNintendored-steel-2ubisoftWiiMon, 22 Feb 2010 16:05:00 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[WiiWare's Ghost Slayer uses MotionPlus for ghost re-killing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/wiiwares-ghost-slayer-uses-motionplus-for-ghost-re-killing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/wiiwares-ghost-slayer-uses-motionplus-for-ghost-re-killing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/wiiwares-ghost-slayer-uses-motionplus-for-ghost-re-killing/#commentsGhostfire Games' Rage of the Gladiator is on the way to WiiWare, and now we have word of another first-person, MotionPlus-enhanced WiiWare game involving ghosts: Ghost Slayer, by Gevo Entertainment.

Ghost Slayer uses the Wiimote (with optional MotionPlus) to simulate a sword as you fight howling, glowing ghouls in first person. According to the backstory, ghosts (led by a Ghost Queen) are pouring out of a dry well, and it's up to you, as a Ghost Slayer, to hit them a bunch of times with your sword!

The North American release date is currently TBA. In the meantime, you can be creeped the hell out by the trailer after the break.

[Via Nintendo Life]

Continue reading WiiWare's Ghost Slayer uses MotionPlus for ghost re-killing

JoystiqWiiWare's Ghost Slayer uses MotionPlus for ghost re-killing originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gevo-entertainmentghost-slayermotionpluswiiwareThu, 04 Feb 2010 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Aonuma hopes to show 'playable' build of new Zelda at E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/aonuma-hopes-to-show-playable-build-of-new-zelda-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/aonuma-hopes-to-show-playable-build-of-new-zelda-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/03/aonuma-hopes-to-show-playable-build-of-new-zelda-at-e3/#comments The latest carrot to be dangled before the teeming mass of The Legend of Zelda fans comes from a recent interview in Famitsu magazine, via Andriasang. There, director Eiji Aonuma says he hopes that Nintendo will be able to "show something playable" at E3. What? That's, like, four years ahead of schedule! We jest, but it's not like Nintendo really needs to rush anything. It's The Legend of Zelda. You want it, even if it's supposed to be different this time around.

Aonuma wouldn't provide much in terms of how far along the game has come, other than talking up the MotionPlus support and stating the team has "progressed in development since last year" and that the "core areas have come into clear view." We take that to mean the team has finished rendering Hyrule Field.

JoystiqAonuma hopes to show 'playable' build of new Zelda at E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Feb 2010 21:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eiji-aonumafamitsuinterviewjapanLegend-of-Zelda-2010motionplusNintendothe-legend-of-zeldaWiiwii-motionpluszeldazelda-wiiWed, 03 Feb 2010 21:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Nyko reveals Wii Wand with built-in MotionPlus, more at CES]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/nyko-reveals-wii-wand-with-built-in-motionplus-more-at-ces/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/nyko-reveals-wii-wand-with-built-in-motionplus-more-at-ces/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/nyko-reveals-wii-wand-with-built-in-motionplus-more-at-ces/#comments
Last year at CES, Nyko unveiled the Wand, its take on Nintendo's Wiimote. This year, the peripheral maker's big item is ... abracadabra ... the Wand -- with one exciting addition! The $40 Wand+ is a single, self-contained unit that includes MotionPlus compatibility. The device still supports the crazy Trans-Port stuff, like the original Wand does, which means that Wiimote buttons can be automatically remapped to buttons on other Nyko accessories, including its gun controller.

Nyko has also introduced two variants of its cookie-inspiring Charge Base IC remote charger: a version of the original in black and a new one that can accommodate four Wiimotes.

For PS3, the company has designed a new version of its Intercooler made to bulk up Sony's Slim model, and the Media Hub Slim, a combination of a tiny remote control and a USB hub.

The Wand and Charge Base Quad IC are due in stores this March. The Intercooler will be available next month for $19.99, and the Media Hub Slim will retail for $19.99 when it's released in April.

Gallery: Nyko CES 2010 lineup

JoystiqNyko reveals Wii Wand with built-in MotionPlus, more at CES originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 10:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ces-2010charge-base-iccharge-base-quad-icintercoolerintercooler-slimmedia-hubmedia-hub-slimmotionplusNintendonykonyko-wandwand-plusWiiThu, 07 Jan 2010 10:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii dominates Amazon's video game best sellers of 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/wii-dominates-amazons-video-game-best-sellers-of-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/wii-dominates-amazons-video-game-best-sellers-of-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/wii-dominates-amazons-video-game-best-sellers-of-2009/#comments Online retailer Amazon has tallied up sales in its Video Games category for the year 2009, and the results are overwhelmingly in favor of the Nintendo Wii, with nine out of the top ten spots going to Nintendo's console, various official accessories, and games. The best-selling game on the list is New Super Mario Bros. Wii at spot number 5, a feat made even more impressive by the fact that the game came out in November -- selling more copies in under two months than most games sold all year. But above that it's all Wii gear, from the Nunchuk and the MotionPlus addon to the console itself at the top.

Modern Warfare 2 is the only non-Nintendo title in the top ten, and it's specifically the Xbox 360 version, while the PS3 version comes in at number 13. There are only two titles exclusive to another console on the list: Halo 3: ODST for Microsoft at 16, and Uncharted 2 for Sony at 18. But that's not much to cheer about: even the Wii Wheel beat them both. It's fair to say Nintendo can declare Wii-ctory on Amazon in 2009. See the full list below.

[Via Kotaku]

Continue reading Wii dominates Amazon's video game best sellers of 2009

JoystiqWii dominates Amazon's video game best sellers of 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Dec 2009 23:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009amazonamazon.combest-sellingend-of-year-2009halo-3-odstMicrosoftmodern-warfare-2motionplusnew-super-mario-bros-wiiNintendosalestitlestop-tenWiiXbox-360Thu, 31 Dec 2009 23:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Zangeki no Reginleiv just assumes you don't need all those limbs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/23/zangeki-no-reginleiv-just-assumes-you-dont-need-all-those-limbs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/23/zangeki-no-reginleiv-just-assumes-you-dont-need-all-those-limbs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/23/zangeki-no-reginleiv-just-assumes-you-dont-need-all-those-limbs/#comments
Zangeki no Reginleiv, everybody! No, we didn't just wish you happy holidays in Russian -- that's the name of Nintendo's upcoming Japanese release (it basically means "Dynamic Slash," or "Dynamic Zan") that's not only its first Cero D-rated ("M") title ever, but also developed by Sandlot, the folks behind 2007's action gem-in-the-rough Earth Defense Force 2017. As you can see in the new trailer (posted for your viewing enjoyment after the break), the game features Norse heroes doing some MotionPlus-enabled hacking and slashing that results in screen-filling sprays of blood and dismemberment. Good, good times.

It's highly unlikely we'll ever see this one show up here in North America -- Nintendo of America and mature games don't usually mix well. But you can still grab your Wiimote, watch this trailer while waving your arms around, and dream.

Continue reading Zangeki no Reginleiv just assumes you don't need all those limbs

JoystiqZangeki no Reginleiv just assumes you don't need all those limbs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dismembermentearth-defense-forceearth-defense-force-2017earth-defense-force-3gamesjapanmaturemotionplusnintendonorse-mythologyreleasesandlotwii-motionpluswiimotezangeki-no-regenleivzangeki-no-reginleivWed, 23 Dec 2009 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Pink and blue Wiimotes coming Valentine's Day]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/pink-and-blue-wiimotes-coming-valentines-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/pink-and-blue-wiimotes-coming-valentines-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/14/pink-and-blue-wiimotes-coming-valentines-day/#commentsAlong with its many software announcements, Nintendo of America made one small hardware announcement this morning. The blue and pink Wii Remotes, first announced for Japan in October, are on the way to North America on February 14. Unlike the awesome black Wiimote, neither the included MotionPlus peripheral nor the Wiimote jacket will be in a matching color.

Still, as Nintendo reminds us, this is your first chance to have a different-color Wiimote for each of four players. Unless you've already solved that "problem" by sticking one of your friends with the (perhaps undeserved) stigma of being Nyko Wand Guy.

JoystiqPink and blue Wiimotes coming Valentine's Day originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blue-wiimotecolorscontrollermotionplusperipheralspink-wiimoterelease-datewiimoteMon, 14 Dec 2009 14:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-free: Camera-controlled Racquet Sports]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/ubisoft-racquet-sports-with-wii-camera-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/ubisoft-racquet-sports-with-wii-camera-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/ubisoft-racquet-sports-with-wii-camera-preview/#comments Call to mind Wii Sports' tennis, and you don't have to stretch your imagination too much further to arrive at Ubisoft's Racquet Sports. If you own a Wii, you already own this experience, to which Ubisoft has added some variety, including ping-pong, badminton, squash, and beach tennis, and a more fleshed-out art direction than Nintendo's pack-in or even its sequel, Wii Sports Resort. There's no Mii support, but Racquet Sports offers its own dollish avatars, customized with unlockable trinkets. There's a derivative multicultural vibe, too, as the characters and playing courts span the globe in classic and fantastic scenarios. Grandma vs. dashiki-clad boy in an aquarium squash court? Yes.

Of course, the experience you don't own is "tennis" played with a motion-tracking camera. No, not Natal -- not at all. Ubisoft's USB camera, first bundled with scarcely-reviewed Your Shape (featuring Jenny McCarthy), might be on the cutting edge of a revived and revamped gaming tech trend, but its implementation in Racquet Sports is painfully dull.

Gallery: Racquet Sports (Wii)

Continue reading Hands-free: Camera-controlled Racquet Sports

JoystiqHands-free: Camera-controlled Racquet Sports originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameramotion-trackingmotionplusNintendoracquet-sportsslap-happysportsubisoftusbWiiwii-motionplusyour-shapeThu, 10 Dec 2009 18:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Reggie ain't sweating Project Natal, 'Sphere']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/reggie-aint-sweating-project-natal-sphere/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/reggie-aint-sweating-project-natal-sphere/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/reggie-aint-sweating-project-natal-sphere/#comments
In the dilapidated, war-torn streets of the gaming industry, the Console Wars[TM] have taken their toll on not only the landscape, but also the inhabitants of this once peaceful land. With war mongerers Sony and Microsoft preparing their next wave of battle tech -- motion control devices like the "PlayStation Motion Controller" (rumored: 'Sphere') and Project Natal, respectively -- Nintendo's battle general, Reggie Fils-Aime, recently continued his criticism of rivals by commenting to wartime reporters at Gamasutra that Nintendo isn't really shaking on its Balance Board.

General Fils-Aime said that Nintendo will "applaud anything that will further expand the market of game players" and that the expansion of this kind of technology is really "in everyone's best interest," even though he admits Nintendo could lose some of its marketshare as a result. However, he does feel confident in Nintendo's "head-start of over 51 million controllers."

JoystiqReggie ain't sweating Project Natal, 'Sphere' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>motion-controlsmotionplusplaystation-motion-controllerproject-natalreggie-fils-aimespherewiimoteFri, 13 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto: Next Zelda will use MotionPlus for more realistic swordplay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/miyamoto-next-zelda-will-use-motionplus-for-more-realistic-swor/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/miyamoto-next-zelda-will-use-motionplus-for-more-realistic-swor/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/03/miyamoto-next-zelda-will-use-motionplus-for-more-realistic-swor/#comments Nintendo's resident legend, Shigeru Miyamoto, has revealed that the next installment in the Legend of Zelda series on Wii will make use of Wii MotionPlus for more realistic sword combat and targeting. "In this (installment of the series), we're using MotionPlus to make you feel much more like you're actually fighting while holding a sword in your hand," Miyamoto disclosed during an October 30 Q&A session, as translated by GameLife.

"In the previous game, you aimed at things by pointing at the screen, but this time we'll use MotionPlus to create a much more convenient targeting system and a more pleasurable playing experience," Miyamoto added.

Despite these revelations, Nintendo has yet to officially state whether Wii MotionPlus will be an option or a requirement for playing the game. When this next Zelda was announced during E3 2009, Miyamoto could only say that MotionPlus-exclusivity was "possible." These gameplay elements -- especially the swordplay -- only make it seem more likely.

[Via GameLife]

JoystiqMiyamoto: Next Zelda will use MotionPlus for more realistic swordplay originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>legend-of-zeldaLegend-of-Zelda-2010motionplusNintendoshigeru-miyamotoWiiwii-motionpluszeldaTue, 03 Nov 2009 17:30:00 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[Black Wiimote, MotionPlus, and Nunchuk out before Black Friday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/black-wiimote-motionplus-and-nunchuk-out-before-black-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/black-wiimote-motionplus-and-nunchuk-out-before-black-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/black-wiimote-motionplus-and-nunchuk-out-before-black-friday/#commentsIf you've been holding off on inviting friends over because you've been waiting to pick up some cool black controllers, good news! You'll be able to remove yourself from multiplayer exile and play some Wii Sports Resort next month.

On November 16, Nintendo will release the black Wiimote and MotionPlus bundle for $50, and the matching black Nunchuk for $20. From then on, it will be a race to be the first person to reference Wesley Snipes' signature line from Passenger 57 in multiplayer games. Of course, you'll then also have to win or you'll sound stupid.

JoystiqBlack Wiimote, MotionPlus, and Nunchuk out before Black Friday originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesblack-wiimotionplusnunchukwiimoteWed, 14 Oct 2009 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Red Steel 2 dev diary brings a sword to a gunfight]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/red-steel-2-dev-diary-brings-a-sword-to-a-gunfight/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/red-steel-2-dev-diary-brings-a-sword-to-a-gunfight/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/01/red-steel-2-dev-diary-brings-a-sword-to-a-gunfight/#commentsMost of the doubt surrounding Red Steel 2 has to do with the swordplay -- and it's for good reason. The bandana'd thug-slashing permeating the entirety of its predecessor just flat out didn't work, most of us can surely agree. But this latest video diary shows how the addition of Wii MotionPlus has really changed the experience in the sequel, at least from a slashing and stabbing perspective. See for yourself in the footage above.

JoystiqRed Steel 2 dev diary brings a sword to a gunfight originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-diarymotionplusNintendored-steelred-steel-2ubisoftubisoft-montrealWiiwii-motionplusThu, 01 Oct 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Sports Resort sales reach 1.25m in US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/25/wii-sports-resort-sales-reach-1-25m-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/25/wii-sports-resort-sales-reach-1-25m-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/25/wii-sports-resort-sales-reach-1-25m-in-us/#comments

Wii Sports Resort, Nintendo's sequel to its police-distracting killer app, has sold 1.25 million copies in the United States, according to the House of Mario. And the peripheral that makes all of Resorts one to (not so much) one controls possible, the MotionPlus accessory, has moved 2.9 million units in the region. EA's Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10 swung 257,000 MotionPlus units into homes, while 1.36 million sales were standalone.

For those who haven't picked up Wii Sports Resort yet, it may be worth holding off until October 12, when Nintendo releases a bundle of the game with two MotionPlus devices for $60 - a $10 savings, worth it for those planning to play the game co-op.

Gallery: Wii Sports Resort

JoystiqWii Sports Resort sales reach 1.25m in US originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MotionPlusNintendoWiiWii-MotionPluswii-sports-resortFri, 25 Sep 2009 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: No Euro Wii price cut, new bundle to include both Wii Sports games, MotionPlus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/23/rumor-no-euro-wii-price-cut-new-bundle-to-include-both-wii-spo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/23/rumor-no-euro-wii-price-cut-new-bundle-to-include-both-wii-spo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/23/rumor-no-euro-wii-price-cut-new-bundle-to-include-both-wii-spo/#commentsJust like we saw earlier this year with the PlayStation 3 Slim, the rumor mill is churning at breakneck pace -- though this time around a possible Nintendo Wii price cut rather than a slimmer console. Aside from multiple retailer listings and today's alleged internal Best Buy memo, MCV reports that a "retail source" told it the UK won't be receiving the same price cut that North America and Japan are expected to receive. Instead, the current model will be given the bundle treatment.

GamesIndustry.biz spotted the new bundle on ShopTo.net -- it has since been removed, though an image and a shell of the page still exist -- which includes both Wii Sports and Wii Sports Resort as well as a MotionPlus attachment, for the same £199.99 ($326.76) the system is priced at now. If it is true, at least UK Wii buyers will be getting a bit more for their pounds. It's not quite the Duck Hunt/Super Mario Bros. with a Zapper combo of yore, but it'll have to do.

Source -- No Wii price cut for UK [GamesIndustry.biz]
Source -- New UK Wii bundle leaked [MCV]

JoystiqRumor: No Euro Wii price cut, new bundle to include both Wii Sports games, MotionPlus originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundleduck-huntgamesindustry.bizmcvmotionplusNintendoprice-cutrumorsuper-mario-brosukWiiwii-sportswii-sports-resortzapperWed, 23 Sep 2009 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Get a MotionPlus with NHL 2K10 in Canada]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/get-a-motionplus-with-nhl-2k10-in-canada/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/get-a-motionplus-with-nhl-2k10-in-canada/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/get-a-motionplus-with-nhl-2k10-in-canada/#commentsNintendo has already, to the surprise of many, partnered with EA to bundle MotionPlus peripherals with sports games. Now, according to a Canadian retail listing, the company is collaborating with another third party on a bundle. Futureshop lists an NHL 2K10 package featuring 2K Sports' hockey game (and its utterly terrifying box art) and a MotionPlus, for $69.99 (about $63 USD). Amazon.ca also shows the same bundle at a $10 discount.

These seemingly Canada-exclusive bundles will ship concurrently with the standalone release on September 15.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqGet a MotionPlus with NHL 2K10 in Canada originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-sportsbundlecanadahockeymotionplusnhl-2k10Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Sports Resort puts MotionPlus in over 600,000 European homes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/wii-sports-resort-puts-motionplus-in-over-600-000-european-homes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/wii-sports-resort-puts-motionplus-in-over-600-000-european-homes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/07/wii-sports-resort-puts-motionplus-in-over-600-000-european-homes/#commentsWe knew that Wii Sports Resort was selling well in Europe. Today, Nintendo told GamesIndustry.biz just how well: over 600,000 copies in its two weeks of release, even more than have sold in North America. That's not only good news for the game, but also for the prospects for future MotionPlus use -- the more the game sells, the more of the Wii audience has the device, and the more likely developers are to support it.

Who knew that a sequel to a ridiculously popular game could also be popular? Somebody should tell all the struggling publishers like EA and Activision about this.

Gallery: Wii Sports Resort in Times Square

JoystiqWii Sports Resort puts MotionPlus in over 600,000 European homes originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europemotionplusNintendosalessportsWiiwii-sports-resortFri, 07 Aug 2009 09:40:00 EST