Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Indie PC fighter Yatagarasu now available through Rice Digital]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/indie-pc-fighter-yatagarasu-now-available-through-rice-digital/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/indie-pc-fighter-yatagarasu-now-available-through-rice-digital/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/indie-pc-fighter-yatagarasu-now-available-through-rice-digital/#comments
Indie 2D fighting game Yatagarasu, developed by ex-SNK alumni Circle Edge, is now available on PC through its British publisher, Rice Digital. Having first launched in Japan back in the stone ages of 2011, this is the first time Yatagarasu has been directly available to an English-speaking audience.

Oh, but the game itself has not been localized for western consumption and is still entirely in Japanese. It's also only £7.99, or about 12 bucks.

The last time Yatagarasu showed up on our radar, Nicalis was preparing to display the still-unreleased, localized 3DS version to the crowd at PAX Prime. We've reached out to Nicalis for an update on the status of its port, but for now the bravest of you can venture deep into the heart of independent Japanese fighting game design from the safety of your own desks.

JoystiqIndie PC fighter Yatagarasu now available through Rice Digital originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Circle-EdgeindieNicalispcRice-DigitalYatagarasuThu, 04 Apr 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Studio Pixel's 'Gero Blaster' rescues cats this spring]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/studio-pixels-gero-blaster-rescues-cats-this-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/studio-pixels-gero-blaster-rescues-cats-this-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/studio-pixels-gero-blaster-rescues-cats-this-spring/#comments
Yesterday's BitSummit indie developer event in Kyoto proved its importance when Cave Story creator Daisuke Amaya unveiled his new game, Gero Blaster, an iPhone run-and-gun about a bipedal frog named Kaeru ("Frog") trying to save his cat girlfriend.

It's due for iOS release in May; however, Nicalis producer Tyrone Rodriguez, who has worked with Pixel on various versions of Cave Story, Ikachan, and more, brandished a 3DS running Gero Blaster, posting a picture on Twitter as proof. There are no details about the 3DS plans yet, or any for other platforms, but the existence of the prototype is heartening.

JoystiqStudio Pixel's 'Gero Blaster' rescues cats this spring originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsgero-blasteriosiphonemobilenicalisnintendostudio-pixelSat, 09 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nicalis picks up Kickstarter-funded 'The '90s Arcade Racer']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/nicalis-picks-up-kickstarter-funded-the-90s-arcade-racer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/nicalis-picks-up-kickstarter-funded-the-90s-arcade-racer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/nicalis-picks-up-kickstarter-funded-the-90s-arcade-racer/#comments Nicalis picks up Kickstarterfunded 'The '90s Arcade Racer'The '90s Arcade Racer is a game by Pelikan13 meant to recreate the feeling of classic Sega racing games like Daytona USA and Scud Race. With six days left on its Kickstarter drive, it's exceeded its modest £10,000 goal.

It's also picked up a publisher: Nicalis, best known for Cave Story. Nicalis will help bring the racing game to iOS, Android and Wii U, in addition to the planned PC, Mac and Linux releases.

The project appears to have struck a chord with Nicalis producer Tyrone Rodriguez, who explains that he was a devout Sega racing game fan, as well as a designer on The Fast & The Furious: Tokyo Drift for PS2 and PSP. He also has "over 100 hours of real-world track time (open-wheel, street and race cars)." We hope that enthusiasm for racing shines through.

Gallery: The '90s Arcade Racer

JoystiqNicalis picks up Kickstarter-funded 'The '90s Arcade Racer' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosiphonekickstartermacmobilenicalisnintendopcthe-90s-arcade-racerwii-uTue, 12 Feb 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Portabliss: Ikachan (3DS eShop)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/30/portabliss-ikachan-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/30/portabliss-ikachan-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/30/portabliss-ikachan-3ds-eshop/#comments This is Portabliss, a column about downloadable games that can be played on the go.

Portabliss Ikachan 3DS eShop
Ikachan is a perfect snack-sized game. Coming in at around two hours, it offers a concentrated dose of pure Studio Pixel exploration.

A precursor to Cave Story, It's the same kind of lovingly pixelated subterranean environments, the same kind of mysterious, mute protagonist dropped into a society in the midst of a power struggle, and the same kind of discovery of previously inaccessible spaces via new abilities that Pixel perfected in Cave Story, but in a miniature form you can enjoy start-to-finish in a single sitting. With a cute lil' squid as the hero.

Gallery: Ikachan (3DS)

Continue reading Portabliss: Ikachan (3DS eShop)

JoystiqPortabliss: Ikachan (3DS eShop) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jan 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsikachannicalisnintendoportablissstudio-pixelWed, 30 Jan 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nicalis wants your input on The Binding of Isaac's makeover]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/01/nicalis-wants-your-input-on-the-binding-of-isaacs-makeover/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/01/nicalis-wants-your-input-on-the-binding-of-isaacs-makeover/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/01/nicalis-wants-your-input-on-the-binding-of-isaacs-makeover/#comments Nicalis wants your input on The Binding of Isaac's makeoverNicalis is proposing four different art styles for The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth, the console remake of Team Meat's bizarre PC game. Fans can vote on the four mock-up 16-bit art styles seen in the gallery below to determine which direction Nicalis will take the remake in.

According to The Binding of Isaac creator Edmund McMillen's Tumblr blog, the game is getting a face lift "because I think the art is tired and I'm sick of looking at it." The survey also asks for input on which platforms the game should appear on, with 3DS and Wii U listed as options.

Nicalis will begin development on the project in January and hopes to launch PS3, Vita and PC (Steam) versions of The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth by the end of 2013, with Xbox 360, iOS and Nintendo console ports a possibility.

Gallery: The Binding of Isaac (Rebirth Mock-Up Art)

JoystiqNicalis wants your input on The Binding of Isaac's makeover originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 01 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>16-bitart-styleedmund-mcmillenmicrosoftnicalispcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3remakesurveyteam-meatthe-binding-of-isaacthe-binding-of-isaac-rebirthvitavotexboxSat, 01 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Binding of Isaac: Rebirth PS3, Vita, PC ports in progress]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/binding-of-isaac-rebirth-in-process-of-ps3-vita-pc-ports-mor/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/binding-of-isaac-rebirth-in-process-of-ps3-vita-pc-ports-mor/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/binding-of-isaac-rebirth-in-process-of-ps3-vita-pc-ports-mor/#comments Binding of Isaac Rebirth in process of PS3, Vita, PC ports, more detailsSurely Edmund McMillen didn't think 1 million Binding of Isaac fans would be satisfied with the scant details he provided about the game's console version, Rebirth, in yesterday's postmortem.

He's taken to Tumblr to clear up questions about Binding of Isaac: Rebirth, confirming that publisher Nicalis is working on ports for PS3, Vita and PC via Steam. Nicalis is talking to Microsoft and Nintendo, and even iOS is an option, "if it's not garbage."

Rebirth will include Wrath of the Lamb and a new, similarly sized expansion that features a fresh final chapter and ending, two new playable characters, and "tons more items, rooms, enemies, bosses and the like."

Rebirth will have local co-op only, and it will contain some "secret stuff" that couldn't be added to the Flash version. Composer Danny Baranowsky is mixing up some new songs for the console version. It's set to begin development on January 1 and be finished by the end of 2013, and McMillen wants to have a loyalty pre-order discount for anyone who owns Isaac already.

"The biggest thing to keep in mind here is that development is just starting with the remake, nothing is totally set in stone and a lot will change over time," McMillen cautions. "I'm currently in full-time development of Mew-Genics with Tommy and we have a few other little tricks in store for you next year, so my goal with Rebirth is to simply make sure the remake is top-quality and then detail out the expansion and updates once development is much farther along."

Yeah, yeah, whatever, McMillen - our eyes glazed over in glee right after reading "Vita."

JoystiqBinding of Isaac: Rebirth PS3, Vita, PC ports in progress originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Nov 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>binding-of-isaac-rebirthedmund-mcmillennicalispcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3rebirththe-binding-of-isaacthe-binding-of-isaac-rebirthvitaThu, 29 Nov 2012 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth starts over on consoles with Nicalis]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/the-binding-of-isaac-rebirth-starts-over-on-consoles-with-nical/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/the-binding-of-isaac-rebirth-starts-over-on-consoles-with-nical/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/the-binding-of-isaac-rebirth-starts-over-on-consoles-with-nical/#comments The Binding of Isaac Rebirth starts over on consoles with NicalisEdmund McMillen's postmortem of The Binding of Isaac may be a bit premature, since right at the end he discusses a new way that the game will live on, in a console version published by Nicalis. It's called The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth, and it will feature local co-op, revamped 16-bit graphics, and a second expansion, alongside Wrath of the Lamb, that didn't make it to the Flash version.

McMillen says he was hesitant to develop another console title, after Super Meat Boy on XBLA ate up two years of his life. One of his guidelines in working with Nicalis is that he won't "deal with anything when it came to business."

The Binding of Isaac has sold more than 1 million copies on PC and Mac in its first year on Steam, and 25 percent of those people bought the Wrath of the Lamb expansion as well. That's up from 700,000 full copies reported in June.

There's no consensus on which consoles will get Rebirth, but in February McMillen noted he was looking at "1-2 Sony platforms." In the postmortem, he names Microsoft and Sony's digital platforms, as well as a Nintendo eShop release for Wii U or 3DS, the last of which is a one-eighty from that relationship earlier this year.

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac: Rebirth starts over on consoles with Nicalis originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsedmund-mcmillenmicrosoftmobilenicalisnintendoplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonythe-binding-of-isaacvitawii-uxboxWed, 28 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story dev's Guxt rated for 3DS, will include vertical display mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/22/cave-story-devs-guxt-rated-for-3ds-will-include-vertical-displ/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/22/cave-story-devs-guxt-rated-for-3ds-will-include-vertical-displ/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/22/cave-story-devs-guxt-rated-for-3ds-will-include-vertical-displ/#comments Cave Story dev's Guxt rated for 3DS, will include vertical display modeAs Cave Story designer Daisuke "Pixel" Amaya told us in an interview last March, he's been working on a version of his vertical scrolling shmup Guxt for the 3DS, and Nicalis, who's publishing the game, has just tweeted recently that it's been rated by the ESRB and is ready to go. You can download and play the game online for free on the PC right now, though the game will be updated for Nintendo's handheld for sure.

One of the game's producers has tweeted that the title will have a "vertical display mode", so players will be able to tilt the 3DS to hold it vertically, and see the game on a correctly-aligned screen, rather than having a bar running through the middle of the action. Unfortunately, there's no word on exactly when the game will arrive, but considering it's been in development for a while., "soon" is probably the answer you're looking for. Stay tuned.

JoystiqCave Story dev's Guxt rated for 3DS, will include vertical display mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Nov 2012 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscave-storydaisuke-amayaeesrbguxtnicalisnintendonintendo-3dspcpixelratedThu, 22 Nov 2012 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story pre-emptively rated for additional platforms]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/cave-story-pre-emptively-rated-for-additional-platforms/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/cave-story-pre-emptively-rated-for-additional-platforms/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/03/cave-story-pre-emptively-rated-for-additional-platforms/#comments Cave Story preemptively rated for additional platforms Last week, Cave Story's ESRB rating was updated to include new platforms: PS2, PS3, Vita, and Xbox 360 in addition to the existing 3DS, DSi, Wii, and PSP ratings. We contacted developer and publisher Nicalis to determine whether to expect Cave Story on even more platforms than it's already on.

In short, no. The ESRB ratings are not indication of definite plans. "We submitted all the consoles so that we wouldn't have to resubmit in the future," producer Tyrone Rodriguez told Joystiq, "IF [emphasis his] we ever decided to bring to those consoles."

The good news is that you are very likely to already have a platform to play Cave Story on.

JoystiqCave Story pre-emptively rated for additional platforms originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Nov 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cave-Storyesrbmicrosoftnicalisplaystationplaystation-vitaps3vitaxboxSat, 03 Nov 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Portabliss: NightSky (3DS eShop)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/portabliss-nightsky-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/portabliss-nightsky-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/25/portabliss-nightsky-3ds-eshop/#commentsThis is Portabliss, a column about downloadable games that can be played on the go.
Portabliss NightSky 3DS eShop
I can never think, or write, about NightSky without using the word "meditative." So I'm just going with it. NightSky is meditative in the extreme. It throws calm and serene imagery all up in your face. It's not overly easy; rather, the combination of clever level placement, soothing music and subtly beautiful visuals make the whole experience more ... well, meditative.

When the 3DS port was first announced, Nicalis producer Tyrone Rodriguez told us it wouldn't display in 3D. However, the final game does include stereoscopic visuals. "We tried it and it looked better than we thought," Rodriguez explained to Joystiq, simply. "But then we had to ditch the gyro," referring to plans to use tilt controls.

Gallery: NightSky (3DS eShop)

Continue reading Portabliss: NightSky (3DS eShop)

JoystiqPortabliss: NightSky (3DS eShop) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseshopnicalisnifflasnightskynintendoportablissThu, 25 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Portabliss: Cave Story (3DS eShop)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/portabliss-cave-story-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/portabliss-cave-story-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/portabliss-cave-story-3ds-eshop/#commentsThis is Portabliss, a column about downloadable games that can be played on the go.
Portabliss Cave Story 3DS eShop
In discussing any specific version of Cave Story, it's not particularly useful to evaluate it on its gameplay merits. Any version you pick up is going to be great on those terms. Even if you're playing it with a keyboard on PC, the controls are going to be responsive and movement is just going to be fun. It's one of the best Metroidvania-style games on any platform, and the release of a new version is just another excuse to try it. So try it!

What is more useful than evaluating each new version is unpacking the differences between the many, many versions. With that in mind, the new Cave Story for the 3DS on eShop is Cave Story in 3D, but it is not Cave Story 3D.

Gallery: Cave Story (3DS eShop)

Continue reading Portabliss: Cave Story (3DS eShop)

JoystiqPortabliss: Cave Story (3DS eShop) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsCave-StoryeshopnicalisnintendoportablissFri, 28 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story's 3D revamp comes to eShop on October 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/14/cave-storys-3d-revamp-comes-to-eshop-on-october-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/14/cave-storys-3d-revamp-comes-to-eshop-on-october-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/14/cave-storys-3d-revamp-comes-to-eshop-on-october-4/#comments Cave Story coming to eShop October 4Cave Story comes to the 3DS eShop next month, developer Nicalis tells us. The indie darling's revamp becomes available for download on October 4 for $9.99.

Not to be confused with 3DS game Cave Story 3D, this is effectively Cave Story+ minus the HD art and music that came to the Steam game. What the eShop version does include is all its sprites rendered in multi-layered 3D, the extra challenge modes, and widescreen support. Meanwhile, DSi owners aren't left out as a 2D version is also coming to DSiWare.

Gallery: Cave Story (2D DSiWare)

JoystiqCave Story's 3D revamp comes to eShop on October 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Sep 2012 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsCave-StorydseShopnicalisnintendorelease-dateFri, 14 Sep 2012 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Indie fighting game Yatagarasu coming to 3DS eShop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/indie-fighting-game-yatagarasu-coming-to-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/indie-fighting-game-yatagarasu-coming-to-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/23/indie-fighting-game-yatagarasu-coming-to-3ds-eshop/#comments Indie fighting game Yatagarasu coming to 3DS eShop
Cave Story publisher Nicalis is bringing a new fighter to 3DS eShop, with an impressive pedigree. Yatagarasu - that's the name given to the Japanese PC release, but it's due to change here - is developed by Circle Edge, a three-person team made up of former SNK talent including art director Styleos and designer Umezono. Weirdly, it features "a unique optional commentator system that mimics the tournament trash talk experience."

The handheld fighter will be on display at next week's PAX Prime, within the expanses of the Indie Megabooth.

Continue reading Indie fighting game Yatagarasu coming to 3DS eShop

JoystiqIndie fighting game Yatagarasu coming to 3DS eShop originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Aug 2012 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnicalisnintendopax-2012yatagarasuThu, 23 Aug 2012 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Swift Stitch collects shinies on iOS this week via Nicalis]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/swift-stitch-collects-shinies-on-ios-this-week-via-nicalis/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/swift-stitch-collects-shinies-on-ios-this-week-via-nicalis/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/swift-stitch-collects-shinies-on-ios-this-week-via-nicalis/#comments Swift Stitch comes to iOS this week via NicalisContinuing its partnerships with interesting indies (Studio Pixel, Nifflas, etc.), developer and publisher Nicalis is bringing Sophie Houlden's vector-style racing/puzzle/maze game Swift Stitch to iOS on July 5.

It's difficult to explain the mechanics - hold a button to turn, hit certain barriers to flip horizontal or vertical direction - so instead allow us to direct you to this browser-based demo. The simple one-button controls seem perfectly matched to touchscreen devices, though maybe our brains aren't perfectly matched to the game, as our frequent and sudden meetings with walls would suggest.

The iOS version will be free to download, with ten levels available in the initial version. The full game is available as an in-app purchase for .99, or $1.99 after launch week.

Gallery: Swift Stitch

Continue reading Swift Stitch collects shinies on iOS this week via Nicalis

JoystiqSwift Stitch collects shinies on iOS this week via Nicalis originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jul 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app-storeiosipadiphoneitunesmobilenicalisq3-2012release-datesophie-houldenswift-stitchMon, 02 Jul 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nicalis: WiiWare sales 'almost non-existent,' La-Mulana canceled for NA / EU]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/nicalis-wiiware-sales-almost-non-existent-cancels-la-mulana/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/nicalis-wiiware-sales-almost-non-existent-cancels-la-mulana/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/nicalis-wiiware-sales-almost-non-existent-cancels-la-mulana/#comments Publisher Nicalis announced last night on Twitter that it would not publish the retro-inspired, cave-exploring WiiWare game, La-Mulana, neither in North America nor Europe. The publisher informed GoNintendo that WiiWare sales are "almost non-existent" and that it would be "near impossible to sell sufficient units on WiiWare" to make it worth its efforts.

"The WiiWare market has a fraction of the players from 2008," Nicalis producer Tyrone Rodriguez wrote in a statement. "The window for release and success of software on the platform ended in 2009 and took a very steep decline. Players have moved onto other digital download platforms."

JoystiqNicalis: WiiWare sales 'almost non-existent,' La-Mulana canceled for NA / EU originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 May 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la-mulanaNicalisnintendowiiTue, 01 May 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[VVVVVV hits European eShop on May 10]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/vvvvvv-hits-european-eshop-on-may-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/vvvvvv-hits-european-eshop-on-may-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/28/vvvvvv-hits-european-eshop-on-may-10/#comments Terry Cavanagh's 2D excursion into the world of gravity control and chiptune excellence, VVVVVV, finally has a release date for its long-belated debut on the European eShop: May 10. The announcement comes to us via Twitter, where publisher Nicalis revealed that VVVVVV has passed Nintendo of Europe's certification process - implying immediately afterwards that the game will hit virtual store shelves on "MMMMMMay 10th."

VVVVVV's European eShop debut will take place a little over two years after the game's original release in January of 2010, and while that may sound like a long time, fake scientific studies have shown that it takes at least four and a half years to get the game's phenomenal soundtrack out of your head. So, comparatively, the delay isn't really all that bad.

JoystiqVVVVVV hits European eShop on May 10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseShopeuropeeuropean-release-dateNicalisnintendoterry-cavanaghvvvvvvSat, 28 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nicalis remaking 1,000 Spikes for Wii U and 3DS eShop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/nicalis-remaking-1-000-spikes-for-wii-u-and-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/nicalis-remaking-1-000-spikes-for-wii-u-and-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/nicalis-remaking-1-000-spikes-for-wii-u-and-3ds-eshop/#comments ImageOne of our favorite Xbox Live Indie games is headed to the 3DS and the Wii U. More specifically, Nicalis will be bringing a remake of the ridiculously punishing Aban Hawkins & the 1,000 Spikes in time for the Wii U launch, reports RevoGamers. Cheekily titled Aban Hawkins & the 1,001 Spikes, the game will feature a new 4-player multiplayer, new graphics and sound.

The original was a lot of fun, and the quick, brutal platforming action should certainly be right at home on the 3DS. Aban Hawkins & the 1,001 Spikes is scheduled to arrive on the eShop this year.

JoystiqNicalis remaking 1,000 Spikes for Wii U and 3DS eShop originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds8bits-fanaticsaban-hawkins-and-the-1001-spikeseshopnicalisnintendowii-uMon, 16 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story DSiWare still headed to Europe, but delayed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/cave-story-dsiware-still-headed-to-europe-but-delayed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/cave-story-dsiware-still-headed-to-europe-but-delayed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/cave-story-dsiware-still-headed-to-europe-but-delayed/#comments Cave Story Cave Story hitting DSiWare in North America over a year ago, but Europe is still waiting for an official release. It looks like the region will go without the delightful title a little longer, as it has failed certification with Nintendo of Europe. Responding to a question on Twitter, developer Nicalis noted that Cave Story was submitted to NOE in December but failed because of "some really minor crap with the manual." Nicalis hopes to submit the game yet again sometime this month.

Keep the faith, European Cave Story fans! Or you could always pick up the 3DS version.

JoystiqCave Story DSiWare still headed to Europe, but delayed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cave-StorydelaysdsdsidsiwarenicalisnintendoThu, 12 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Portabliss: VVVVVV (3DS eShop)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/portabliss-vvvvvv-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/portabliss-vvvvvv-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/portabliss-vvvvvv-3ds-eshop/#comments Did you know that you can download handheld games now? That's amazingly convenient! The only inconvenient part of it is finding the right games to buy -- and that's where we come in, with our Portabliss column. In each installment, we'll tell you about a downloadable game on the iPhone, iPad, Android device, DSi, 3DS, PSP, etc. Today: VVVVVV.
VVVVVV for 3DS is the best version of Terry Cavanagh's insanely difficult platform game I've ever played. But that's only because I don't have a good controller for my computer.

As far as I can tell, the 3DS version is identical to the PC release in almost every way: the same C64-style graphics, featuring monochrome smiley-face people against (optional) flashing geometric backgrounds; the same fully explorable world of vast expanses of space, impossible mazes, and so many spikes; the same brilliant chiptune soundtrack.

The differences include, on the downside, the lack of a level editor (though Nicalis has said it is considering adding that), and, on the upside, 3D. Other than that, it's the familiar gauntlet of physically impossible rooms that you really should have played already. Though the specifics of the nostalgia element elude me (not being a C64 person), the style of gameplay is absolutely perfect for me: a series of self-contained platforming challenges that require both dexterity and forethought. Oh, and lots and lots of patience with repeated failure.

Though the level editor isn't present, a selection of user-created levels is included in the download, including the giant "Dimension 333333" by Sendy and a level by Minecraft creator Notch. So when you get through the main game, and collect all 20 of the "trinkets," then you won't have to use those wizard powers you apparently have to generate new content.

VVVVVV is available for $7.99 on the 3DS eShop. We're always looking for new distractions. Want to submit your game for Portabliss consideration? You can reach us at portabliss aat joystiq dawt com.

JoystiqPortabliss: VVVVVV (3DS eShop) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseshopnicalisnintendoportablissterry-cavanaghvvvvvvThu, 29 Dec 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VVVVVV arrives on the 3DS eShop on December 29]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/vvvvvv-arrives-on-the-3ds-eshop-on-december-29/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/vvvvvv-arrives-on-the-3ds-eshop-on-december-29/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/vvvvvv-arrives-on-the-3ds-eshop-on-december-29/#comments Terry Cavanagh's great platformer VVVVVV is heading to a 3DS near you as promised: The game has been set for release on the Nintendo eShop next week. Starting December 29, you'll be able to grab the game (published by Nicalis, the company behind Cave Story and its various iterations) for a price of $7.99 on your 3DS, and take on the game's many frustrating yet ingenious challenges for yourself.

Or, if you've never played the title before, you could go try out the free Flash version, or play it on PC or Mac as you wish. It's a great and well-made experience for sure, but bring all of the patience you have. You'll need it.

Gallery: VVVVVV 3DS (10/07/2011)

JoystiqVVVVVV arrives on the 3DS eShop on December 29 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseshopindienicalisnintendonintendo-eshopplatformerreleaseterry-cavanaghvvvvvvSat, 24 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Deja Review: Cave Story 3D]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/deja-review-cave-story-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/deja-review-cave-story-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/deja-review-cave-story-3d/#comments Not even a semi-controversial visual makeover can keep me from loving Cave Story. I admit to being a bit worried upon seeing the first screens of the new 3DS remake, Cave Story 3D, developed by Nicalis in conjunction with original creator Daisuke "Pixel" Amaya. And I admit now that the new polygonal graphics lack the extreme charm of the original pixels.

But Cave Story is a wonderful game on any platform, in any configuration. Those new graphics are there to sell the game to non-"core" gamers who see 2D art as archaic, and who have no pre-existing knowledge of the indie game scene or of Cave Story. The game still works with its new look. Besides, I was really, honestly impressed with the redone art in several areas. I enjoyed seeing the game reinterpreted, after seeing the original so, so many times.

Continue reading Deja Review: Cave Story 3D

JoystiqDeja Review: Cave Story 3D originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscave-storycave-story-3ddeja-reviewdsnicalisnintendonis-americapixelMon, 07 Nov 2011 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[VVVVVV coming to 3DS in late 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/vvvvvv-coming-to-3ds-in-late-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/vvvvvv-coming-to-3ds-in-late-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/07/vvvvvv-coming-to-3ds-in-late-2011/#commentsTerry Cavanagh's topsy-turvy challenge, VVVVVV, is coming to the Nintendo 3DS courtesy of Nicalis. It'll be available on the 3DS eShop later this year, complete with "full 3D awesomeness."

VVVVVV's cheerful 8-bit aesthetic will stretch across two screens now, with a real-time map on the bottom screen offering some direction in the action platformer that takes great pleasure in eschewing basic navigational rules. The 3DS version will also feature new levels and "future content updates."

If you want to play VVVVVV's new incarnation before it launches, head to the ongoing Indiecade in Culver City, California, and ... track down Terry Cavanagh. Remember, it's pronounced with six Vs.

Gallery: VVVVVV 3DS (10/07/2011)

Continue reading VVVVVV coming to 3DS in late 2011

JoystiqVVVVVV coming to 3DS in late 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsindiecadeindiecade-2011nicalisnintendoq4-2011release-dateterry-cavanaghvvvvvvFri, 07 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story 3D screens come in all dimensional varieties]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/cave-story-3d-screens-come-in-all-dimensional-varieties/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/cave-story-3d-screens-come-in-all-dimensional-varieties/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/cave-story-3d-screens-come-in-all-dimensional-varieties/#comments What're you looking for, folks? Screens of Cave Story 3D's titular three-dimensional display, complete with left-right screen splitting? We have those. Want some slightly less complicated images of the game's spritely 2D mode? You know we got your back. (And we always will.)

Continue reading Cave Story 3D screens come in all dimensional varieties

JoystiqCave Story 3D screens come in all dimensional varieties originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscave-storycave-story-3dnicalisnintendonis-americastudio-pixelWed, 28 Sep 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Cave Story+' now available on Mac App Store, with new content]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/cave-story-now-available-on-mac-app-store-with-new-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/cave-story-now-available-on-mac-app-store-with-new-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/cave-story-now-available-on-mac-app-store-with-new-content/#comments If you want to try out the updated version of Cave Story that hit WiiWare in 2009 -- but, like, on a computer -- you can do so right this second. Developer Nicalis has released Cave Story+ on the Mac App Store.

Of course, Cave Story was originally a freeware game for PC, so why buy a computer version, beyond the positive feeling of giving Daisuke "Pixel" Amaya some compensation for his delightful game? This version includes the (optional) updated graphics and music from the WiiWare release, as well as a new "Wind Fortress" level designed by Amaya, with promises of more content updates in the future. Wind Fortress is "kind of tough, but features new enemies no one has seen," Nicalis producer Tyrone Rodriguez told Joystiq.

A Steam version for PC will follow soon, the press release notes. And, of course, a fully 3D remake of Cave Story -- completely different from this 2D update -- is due for 3DS in November.

Gallery: Cave Story + (PC, Mac)

Continue reading 'Cave Story+' now available on Mac App Store, with new content

Joystiq'Cave Story+' now available on Mac App Store, with new content originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cave-Storymacmac-app-storenicalispcpixelrelease-dateThu, 08 Sep 2011 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Nicalis bringing NightSky to 3DS eShop, in 2D]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/nicalis-bringing-nightsky-to-3ds-eshop-in-2d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/nicalis-bringing-nightsky-to-3ds-eshop-in-2d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/24/nicalis-bringing-nightsky-to-3ds-eshop-in-2d/#comments Cave Story developer Nicalis revealed on Twitter that it's working on a 3DS port of NightSky, the puzzle platform game it released on PC and Mac earlier this year. Later, the developer followed up with a note that it'll be on eShop, making the 3DS version of Nifflas's game one of the rare non-Game Boy, non-DSiWare downloadable games on 3DS.

"We literally just started working on it last week," Nicalis "Producer and Janitor" Tyrone Rodriguez told Joystiq in an interview today. "I'd like to have it done before Christmas and out." Even though work is still early, "it looks perfect on the 3DS."

As if the status as an eShop game didn't confer enough novelty status, NightSky on 3DS will not display in 3D. "I feel that it would distract from the game," he explained. NightSky is flat silhouettes against sky, so we aren't even sure how 3D would work there. Nicalis is still deciding whether to implement motion controls. "We'll probably add that as an option," Rodriguez said. "If it feels right, then we'll definitely do it."

Nicalis has another eShop game planned, which it's not ready to announce just yet.

JoystiqNicalis bringing NightSky to 3DS eShop, in 2D originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eshopnicalisnifflasnightskytyrone-rodriguezWed, 24 Aug 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story 3D includes 'expanded' stages and Prinny, but not original game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/cave-story-3d-includes-expanded-stages-and-prinny-but-not-ori/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/cave-story-3d-includes-expanded-stages-and-prinny-but-not-ori/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/cave-story-3d-includes-expanded-stages-and-prinny-but-not-ori/#comments In an interview with Siliconera, NIS America producer Jack Niida hinted at a Prinny crossover in Cave Story 3D. "You can probably expect our most popular character in there. Aside from that, you might see him as an item, as well." Prinny is a shoo-in for NIS's most popular character, and it's been used in Cave Story 3D teaser images before (see above), so that's probably the dood in question.

Niida also offered a bit more info about the expanded content in the 3D version, which Nicalis hinted at during our preview. "For the old time fans of Cave Story, there aren't brand new stages," he said, "but what we did for these stages is we expanded it. So, there is more to it than there was before. There are new areas to explore; long time fans will definitely see the difference."

What won't be in Cave Story 3D is the original Cave Story. "That's one thing we were talking about too," he said, "but the problem was the amount of space on the card size. We sort of squeezed everything in and at this point we don't have enough space for it."

JoystiqCave Story 3D includes 'expanded' stages and Prinny, but not original game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscave-storycave-story-3ddsjack-niidanicalisnintendoprinnyFri, 05 Aug 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story 3D delayed until November]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/cave-story-3d-delayed-until-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/cave-story-3d-delayed-until-november/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/cave-story-3d-delayed-until-november/#comments What's the opposite of "Huzzah"? Cave Story 3D, Nicalis's radical reinterpretation of the indie classic, won't make its appointed August 9 release date. Publisher NIS America confirmed to Joystiq today that the 3DS remake has been pushed back to November, putting its official release date in line with the date on GameStop's website.

An NIS rep told us that the company would offer more detail about the delay in a press release, expected today. In the meantime, we suggest ameliorating the wait for Cave Story with ... the other version of Cave Story, on DSiWare or WiiWare. You know, to get you ready for Cave Story (3D).

Gallery: Cave Story 3D (6/28)



Update: the press release is after the break, specifying a November 8 release. Producer Jack Niida says that the changes being made to Cave Story 3D are " in the small details, but in order to satisfy both the fans and the new players we need to make sure the game is done right."

Continue reading Cave Story 3D delayed until November

JoystiqCave Story 3D delayed until November originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 15:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscave-story-3ddelaysdsnicalisnintendonis-americaMon, 27 Jun 2011 15:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story 3D preview: Pixel goes polygonal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/cave-story-3d-preview-pixel-goes-polygonal/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/cave-story-3d-preview-pixel-goes-polygonal/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/cave-story-3d-preview-pixel-goes-polygonal/#comments I'll admit it: my excitement about a new version of Cave Story to play on the 3DS was tempered a bit by fears that it wouldn't turn out right. To put it more directly, my excitement was tempered by the first screenshots of Cave Story 3D.

But upon playing the remake, it was immediately evident that developer Nicalis had been paying attention to the reaction to those first images, and is working to make something that reinterprets the environments of the retro-style original in a more palatable -- and more parsable -- way. It is not ruined by the 3D graphics.

Gallery: Cave Story 3D (E3 2011)

Continue reading Cave Story 3D preview: Pixel goes polygonal

JoystiqCave Story 3D preview: Pixel goes polygonal originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscave-story-3ddse3e3-2011nicalisnintendonis-americaWed, 15 Jun 2011 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[La-Mulana explores Japanese WiiWare this month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/la-mulana-explores-japanese-wiiware-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/la-mulana-explores-japanese-wiiware-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/la-mulana-explores-japanese-wiiware-this-month/#comments This year's big Nicalis-published, retro-inspired, cave-exploring WiiWare remake is La-Mulana. It's a side-scrolling platformer that stars a whip-wielding archaeologist who keeps his laptop handy at all times.

Developer Asterizm announced today that the WiiWare remake will be released in Japan on June 21. " To our fans" in other regions, "you just have to wait a tiny big longer." Publisher Nicalis tweeted that it will announce the North American release date after E3.

JoystiqLa-Mulana explores Japanese WiiWare this month originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 11:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asterizmjapanla-mulananicalisnintendoq2-2011release-datewiiwiiwareWed, 01 Jun 2011 11:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam discounts NightSky, Tom Clancy games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/29/steam-discounts-nightsky-tom-clancy-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/29/steam-discounts-nightsky-tom-clancy-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/29/steam-discounts-nightsky-tom-clancy-games/#comments If you're looking to spend your long weekend in a quiet, relaxing way, you could do worse than to check out NightSky, the meditative rolling-ball platformer by Knytt creator Nifflas. And now's a good day for it, because Steam has reduced the price to five bucks through 1PM tomorrow.

If you're in the mood for less tranquility and more Tom Clancity, the ongoing Ubisoft sale continues today, with 66% discounts on pretty much every Tom Clancy game ever, including various Splinter Cells, Ghost Recons, Rainbow Sixes, and HAWX ... es.

JoystiqSteam discounts NightSky, Tom Clancy games originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 29 May 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ghost-reconhawxnicalisnifflasnightskypcrainbow-sixsplinter-cellsteamtom-clancyubisoftSun, 29 May 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story 3D to feature dimension-defying 2D sprite mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/21/cave-story-3d-to-feature-dimension-defying-2d-sprite-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/21/cave-story-3d-to-feature-dimension-defying-2d-sprite-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/21/cave-story-3d-to-feature-dimension-defying-2d-sprite-mode/#comments Torn between your love of the original Cave Story's beautifully pixel-drawn sprites and your excitement for Cave Story 3D's complete reinvention of the game's hovering island-world? You can now have your cave and eat it too: NIS America recently announced the game's 2D sprite mode, which takes the original, flat characters and enemies and places them in remodeled 3D environments, Paper Mario-style.

Destructoid managed to get its hands on a pair of images of this double-dimensioned mode, one of which is posted above. Personally, we think it looks pretty gosh darn neat, though now we're going to have to worry about poor little Quote slipping through crevices in the cave floor. Guess it still beats getting squished by the wizard-king of Hell, but ... um, not by much.

JoystiqCave Story 3D to feature dimension-defying 2D sprite mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 May 2011 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscave-storycave-story-3ddsnicalisnintendonis-americastudio-pixelSat, 21 May 2011 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story 3D dated once again, coming August 9]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/cave-story-3d-dated-once-again-coming-august-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/cave-story-3d-dated-once-again-coming-august-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/29/cave-story-3d-dated-once-again-coming-august-9/#comments We saw one Cave Story 3D release date before, on Nintendo's quarterly release schedule, but that turns out to have been inaccurate -- or the game has been delayed since then. In any case, scratch out the "Cave Story day!!!" note you put on your calendar's June 19 box and rewrite it under August 9. NIS will release the game in Europe sometime in September.

Along with announcing the date, NIS America released the box art image above, featuring protagonists Quote and Curly Brace checking out the 3DS logo on the side. The publisher also released a set of screenshots, each with a note that the game is "under development."

Gallery: Cave Story 3D (screens)

JoystiqCave Story 3D dated once again, coming August 9 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Apr 2011 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscave-storycave-story-3ddsnicalisnintendonis-americaq3-2011release-dateFri, 29 Apr 2011 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Cave Story's salaryman designer, Daisuke 'Pixel' Amaya]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/interview-cave-storys-salaryman-designer-daisuke-pixel-amay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/interview-cave-storys-salaryman-designer-daisuke-pixel-amay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/interview-cave-storys-salaryman-designer-daisuke-pixel-amay/#comments Daisuke "Pixel" Amaya is one of just a few Japanese names in the indie gaming pantheon, after developing 2004's Cave Story entirely on his own as a labor of love. This year, he came to the Game Developers Conference to present a long-overdue postmortem about the development of Cave Story and to promote the upcoming 3DS remake, which he's working on with developer Nicalis and publisher NIS America. During this presentation, Amaya showed never-before-seen footage of a beta version of Cave Story, including locations, characters, and enemies that didn't make it into the beloved indie game.

Soon after the presentation, we sat down with the game designer, and found out that despite the popularity of Cave Story, he still has a day job. For now. " I still work full time as a salaryman," Amaya told Joystiq, "but from April I'm going to be a full time developer." He explained that he planned to leave his job as a programmer for large-scale printing equipment a year ago, but "everybody was like 'are you really okay with developing games?' They weren't really sure if I could support myself." As he also had to train his replacement, his transition to full-time game designer was delayed. " I have a wife, I have kids, so [his co-workers] were a bit worried. It's not like they doubt my skill."

Continue reading Interview: Cave Story's salaryman designer, Daisuke 'Pixel' Amaya

JoystiqInterview: Cave Story's salaryman designer, Daisuke 'Pixel' Amaya originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Mar 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscave-storycave-story-3ddaisuke-amayagdc-2011nicalispixelFri, 11 Mar 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story's Balrog shot in the butt -- in 3D]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/cave-storys-balrog-shot-in-the-butt-in-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/cave-storys-balrog-shot-in-the-butt-in-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/cave-storys-balrog-shot-in-the-butt-in-3d/#commentsOkay, so it's not really stereoscopic 3D yet, but this teaser video is a really detailed look at the polygonal character models from Nicalis and NIS America's new Cave Story 3D -- some of whom are shot in the butt during the course of the video.

Continue reading Cave Story's Balrog shot in the butt -- in 3D

JoystiqCave Story's Balrog shot in the butt -- in 3D originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscave-story-3ddsnicalisnintendonis-americaTue, 15 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story 3D is a 'fully reconstructed' port for 3DS [update: coming this summer]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/cave-story-3d-is-a-fully-reconstructed-port-for-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/cave-story-3d-is-a-fully-reconstructed-port-for-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/cave-story-3d-is-a-fully-reconstructed-port-for-3ds/#comments NIS America has announced it'll publish Cave Story 3D, a "fully reconstructed in 3D" version of Studio Pixel's shooter, on the Nintendo 3DS -- Nicalis will be handling development duties. This means that there will be polygons and, utilizing the tech of the 3DS, certain environments will have a kind of curvature introduced. "This curvature can be accomplished by defining a 3D spline that directly and uniquely maps to the 2D grid that the game is actually aware of," says a preliminary fact sheet for the game. So, in layman's terms, it's still 2D, but projectiles and characters will move around these curvature points as if it were a 3D space.

Everything else about the game is still pretty much the same: you explore; you shoot guys; you get experience and upgrade stuff. We weren't given a launch date for this latest port (Cave Story is currently available on the PC, WiiWare and DSiWare), but we've got a gallery of concept art you're free to peruse.

Update: NIS America announced a summer 2011 release date for this 3DS remake.

Gallery: Cave Story 3D (concept art)

JoystiqCave Story 3D is a 'fully reconstructed' port for 3DS [update: coming this summer] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-story-3ddsnicalisnintendonis-americaFri, 11 Feb 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Nicalis' NightSky rolls onto PC today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/nicalis-nightsky-rolls-onto-pc-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/nicalis-nightsky-rolls-onto-pc-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/06/nicalis-nightsky-rolls-onto-pc-today/#comments Nicalis, developer of the excellent WiiWare and DSiWare updates of indie action-platformer Cave Story, has announced that its latest offering has arrived for the PC today. NightSky (formerly titled Night Game) is now available through the studio's site for the oddball price of $7.20.

NightSky sees the player navigating a sphere over, under and through all manner of 2D obstacles set in a beautiful, dusky world. It's a strange concept to be sure, but considering Nicalis' most popular game features gun-toting robots caught in the middle of a rabbit war, it's actually kind of par for the course.

NightSky is also planned for future release on WiiWare.

JoystiqPSA: Nicalis' NightSky rolls onto PC today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nicalisnightskypcpricingThu, 06 Jan 2011 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Nicalis' NightSky coming to Windows on January 6]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/02/nicalis-nightsky-coming-to-windows-on-january-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/02/nicalis-nightsky-coming-to-windows-on-january-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/02/nicalis-nightsky-coming-to-windows-on-january-6/#comments Nicalis, best known for releasing Daisuke Amaya's Cave Story on the Wii and DSi, has announced that it will be bringing the 2D physics-based platformer NightSky to Windows on January 6. The title, by Sweden's Nifflas, was originally scheduled for release on WiiWare as well. Nicalis says it hasn't "given up on consoles" for the game, but the PC and Mac releases will arrive first.

The game looks intriguing -- you can see a short launch trailer after the break. There's no word on price yet (or where you'll be able to get it, other than the official website), but assuming the game arrives as planned, those who want to get their hands on this 2009 IGF finalist will finally be able to do so.

Continue reading Nicalis' NightSky coming to Windows on January 6

JoystiqNicalis' NightSky coming to Windows on January 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 02 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>macnicalisnifflasnight-gamenightskypcphysicsplatformerrelease-datewindowsSun, 02 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story comes to PAL WiiWare on December 10]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/cave-story-comes-to-pal-wiiware-on-december-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/cave-story-comes-to-pal-wiiware-on-december-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/01/cave-story-comes-to-pal-wiiware-on-december-10/#comments. You know, we really feel for you guys across the pond. Since March, we've had ample time to explore Cave Story on WiiWare. Patiently, you guys waited, and today we're glad to report that there's finally an end in sight to your longing: December 10. Or is that 10 December?

Developer Nicalis offered solace via Twitter, informing inquiring Europeans of the Cave Story launch date. In a later tweet, Nicalis clarified that the December 10 date applies to the entirety of the PAL territory, including New Zealand and Australia -- the game will set players back 1,000 Wii Points.

Gallery: Cave Story (WiiWare)

JoystiqCave Story comes to PAL WiiWare on December 10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cave-StorynicalisnintendowiiWed, 01 Dec 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nicalis teases Nov. 29 release for DSiWare Cave Story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/nicalis-teases-nov-29-release-for-dsiware-cave-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/nicalis-teases-nov-29-release-for-dsiware-cave-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/19/nicalis-teases-nov-29-release-for-dsiware-cave-story/#commentsCave Story publisher Nicalis tweeted a November 29 release date for, well, something on DSiWare. "Guess what'll be available November 29th on DSiWare?!?," the publisher hinted. Luckily, this game of Guess Who? doesn't require the elimination of too many facial features, as Nicalis has only one known DSiWare project, and it's a good one: Cave Story.

It may come as a shock to those of us who waited so long for the WiiWare version to arrive -- or those in Europe still waiting for the WiiWare version. It's only been two months since the initial announcement of the DS port!

JoystiqNicalis teases Nov. 29 release for DSiWare Cave Story originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storydsdsiwarenicalisnintendorelease-dateFri, 19 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Oh Yeaaah!! Here's Cave Story on DSiWare]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/oh-yeaaah-heres-cave-story-on-dsiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/oh-yeaaah-heres-cave-story-on-dsiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/oh-yeaaah-heres-cave-story-on-dsiware/#commentsGreat news about the DSiWare version of Cave Story: it looks like Cave Story! See for yourself after the break.

Continue reading Oh Yeaaah!! Here's Cave Story on DSiWare

JoystiqOh Yeaaah!! Here's Cave Story on DSiWare originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cave-StorydsDSiWareNicalisnintendoStudio-PixelWed, 27 Oct 2010 03:00:00 EST