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[Nintendo's Dunaway says DS has 'room to grow' in US market]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/nintendos-dunaway-says-ds-has-room-to-grow-in-us-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/nintendos-dunaway-says-ds-has-room-to-grow-in-us-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/nintendos-dunaway-says-ds-has-room-to-grow-in-us-market/#comments
[Business Wire] Nintendo of America VP Cammie Dunaway thinks the Nintendo DS is going to keep on getting bigger in America. (And no, not just literally.) Speaking with VentureBeat, the executive highlighted the tremendous success of the Nintendo handheld. "We had our best year ever, selling 11.2 million units. That has never been done by any game platform ever."

Yet, in spite of its success, Dunaway believes there's still a lot more to be done with the US market. Dunaway notes that -- in terms of market penetration -- "in Japan, one in two consumers has a DS." But in America? "It is one in four. So we have room to grow." Essentially, if Japan is the benchmark for America, Nintendo must sell twice as many DS systems as it already has.

If there's one thing we've learned not to doubt this generation, it's Nintendo's ability to sell systems and make money. In January, the company was able to sell over 400,000 units in America -- and that figure is likely to grow with the introduction of the DSi XL in March. Perhaps we need to add even more money to this already-overused JPG.

[Via Edge]

JoystiqNintendo's Dunaway says DS has 'room to grow' in US market originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cammie-dunawaydsdsi-xlnintendonintendo-dsnintendo-dsi-xlnintendo-of-americasalesThu, 04 Mar 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Nintendo DSi XL]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/hands-on-nintendo-dsi-xl/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/hands-on-nintendo-dsi-xl/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/hands-on-nintendo-dsi-xl/#comments
[Left to right: DSi XL, DSi, DS Phat]

Perhaps it was no coincidence that Nintendo stopped by New York City to show off the Nintendo DSi XL, one day after Apple made its not-so-earth-shattering iPad announcement. Like the iPad, the DSi XL is a larger version of an already successful handheld device, but unlike the iPad, the DSi XL promises no added functionality, nor does it alter the electronics landscape in any way. It is, quite succinctly, a bigger DSi.

One can't help but question why the device exists in the first place. To whom does the DSi XL appeal? Certainly, its gargantuan size makes it stand out as the least portable handheld system we've seen in quite some time, taking a completely opposite approach to that of Sony's PSP Go. Thanks to its larger screen size, it takes up even more space than the original DS Phat -- strange, considering one of the primary complaints held against the Phat was its unwieldy girth.

What the XL excels at (sorry!) are games that require extensive use of the stylus. The massive stylus that's included with the system is easy to handle, making earlier stylus pens feel cheap and flimsy. The larger screen real estate makes it easier to draw on the system, perfect for intense Pictochat sessions or a round with WarioWare DIY.

Gallery: Nintendo DSi XL

Continue reading Hands-on: Nintendo DSi XL

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSdsi-xlhands-onnintendonintendo-dsnintendo-dsi-xlThu, 25 Feb 2010 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo: Iwata's DS2 comments were 'misinterpreted']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/nintendo-iwatas-ds2-comments-were-misinterpreted/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/nintendo-iwatas-ds2-comments-were-misinterpreted/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/nintendo-iwatas-ds2-comments-were-misinterpreted/#comments
[Reuters]
We all know a brand-new Nintendo handheld is coming eventually, but in what seems like an effort to detract from the buzz surrounding such a device (and likely to get some of that buzz back on the latest DS revision, the DSi XL), Nintendo has issued a statement regarding reported comments from Iwata on a new handheld -- what we've affectionately dubbed the "DS2." Charlie Scibetta, Nintendo of America's senior director of corporate communications told Kotaku, "Mr. Iwata did not make any comments regarding the functions of Nintendo's future hardware systems," adding that Iwata's statements as reported by the Asahi Shimbun newspaper were "misinterpreted."

As for those statements, it seems to be a given that Nintendo would add motion-sensing technology to its next handheld. Looking to ape the Wii's success, the entire industry has moved in the direction of motion-based gaming -- including Microsoft, with Project Natal, Sony, using the PlayStation Motion Controller, and Apple, a direct competitor in the portable market, chiefly with the IPod Touch. And let's not forget, motion control isn't out of the realm of possiblity for the current Nintendo handheld.

JoystiqNintendo: Iwata's DS2 comments were 'misinterpreted' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jan 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asahi-shimbundsds2dsi-xljapanNintendonintendo-dsnintendo-dsi-xlsatoru-iwataTue, 12 Jan 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Quest IX save data 'enormous;' only one slot allowed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/dragon-quest-ix-save-data-enormous-only-one-slot-allowed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/dragon-quest-ix-save-data-enormous-only-one-slot-allowed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/08/dragon-quest-ix-save-data-enormous-only-one-slot-allowed/#comments The upcoming DS-exclusive RPG, Dragon Quest IX, is massive. In fact, producer Ryutaro Ichimura notes that "the amount of freedom we give players is huge." The consequence? "The data that needs to be saved is enormous." Instead of providing multiple save slots, as found in most DS games, Dragon Quest IX is too large to fit more than one save file in the DS cartridge's limited memory.

While those who prefer creating multiple save points (before a dungeon, for example) will be disappointed, we're reminded of yet another huge DS game: Pokemon. And like Nintendo's monster collecting RPG, Dragon Quest IX will feature a backup system just in case your DS battery dies. "The scariest for save data is when the battery dies," notes DQ creator Yuji Horii. With this system in place, you'll be safe knowing a failed save won't result in hours of gameplay lost.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqDragon Quest IX save data 'enormous;' only one slot allowed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DQ9dragon-questDragon-Quest-9-Sentinels-of-the-Starry-Skiesdragon-quest-ixdsJRPGLevel-5Nintendonintendo-dsRPGsaveSquare-EnixWed, 08 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Law of the Game' lawyer explores GameStop used vs. new controversy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/law-of-the-game-lawyer-explores-gamestop-used-vs-new-controve/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/law-of-the-game-lawyer-explores-gamestop-used-vs-new-controve/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/11/law-of-the-game-lawyer-explores-gamestop-used-vs-new-controve/#comments
Joystiq LGJ columnist Mark Methenitis has written a piece analyzing the claims posited earlier this week by Kotaku surrounding the legality of GameStop's employee "checkout policy" and found that, in his professional opinion, the illegality of this practice may be in question for a variety of reasons. The main question at hand: Is GameStop deceiving customers who purchase employee-played (read: "used") games as new? His answer: Much like most legal matters, it really depends.

Depends on what, you ask? For one, Methenitis says games sold at GameStop as new where, "the disc, packaging, or other materials are damaged in any way, or if one-time use download codes are used" could be "a deceptive act." The problem with minutiae such as this, he says, is that damages are so small (monetarily speaking) that a lawsuit would be ineffective in court. Furthermore, he says that laws put in place to protect consumers from used vs. new item fraud are often based on products that degrade rather than "nebulous" products like DVD discs and, to a greater extent, cartridge-based games (such as Nintendo DS titles).

With legal ambiguities surrounding this issue, we'd simply suggest buying used titles from your friendly, online click-and-order retailer in the meantime, rather than contributing to billions of dollars in used game sales at your own and other gamers' expense.

Joystiq'Law of the Game' lawyer explores GameStop used vs. new controversy originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 11 Apr 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartridgecheck-outdvdgamestopkotakulegallgjmark-methenitisnintendo-dsSat, 11 Apr 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[UK executes largest ever seizure of game copying devices]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/uk-executes-largest-ever-seizure-of-game-copying-devices/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/uk-executes-largest-ever-seizure-of-game-copying-devices/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/09/uk-executes-largest-ever-seizure-of-game-copying-devices/#comments
Nefarious game thieves may find it just a bit harder to feed their habit in the UK: Investigators just conducted the largest seizure of copying devices in the area's history. After discovering large numbers of DS devices being imported into the country, the Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association shut down the operation, which included "a fully operational production line" and a history which indicated it was worth hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Sorry about the tough break, crooks. Looks like you'll have to buy your copy of Jelly Belly Ballistic Beans at a store, just like the rest of us.

JoystiqUK executes largest ever seizure of game copying devices originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 10:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSelspaNintendonintendo-dspiracyMon, 09 Mar 2009 10:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Legacy of Ys: Books I & II delayed, soundtrack bundled]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/legacy-of-ys-books-i-and-ii-delayed-soundtrack-bundled/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/legacy-of-ys-books-i-and-ii-delayed-soundtrack-bundled/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/legacy-of-ys-books-i-and-ii-delayed-soundtrack-bundled/#comments
The hike up to Darm Tower is taking longer than expected. Atlus has bumped the release of Legacy of Ys: Books I & II for the Nintendo DS back two weeks from its originally announced February 10 ship date. Now set for release on February 24, the publisher notes that the entire first printing of the upcoming RPG will now come packaged with the game's soundtrack CD, originally intended just for those who reserved the game.

The bundling is part of a "fan appreciation" effort called Atlus Spoils, which according to Atlus is intended to "give a little extra something to the company's faithful followers." The announcement follows yesterday's reveal of Devil Summoner 2, which will come stuffed with a free Raiho plushie. Now here, take this hankie and wipe those silver tears from your eyes.

JoystiqLegacy of Ys: Books I & II delayed, soundtrack bundled originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusatlus-usanintendonintendo-dsrole-playingrole-playing gamesRole-playingGamesrpgysWed, 28 Jan 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS connectivity feature found in Mii Channel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/09/ds-connectivity-feature-found-in-mii-channel/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/09/ds-connectivity-feature-found-in-mii-channel/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/09/ds-connectivity-feature-found-in-mii-channel/#commentsFiled under: ,


Your Mii Channel holds a terrible secret: DS connectivity. We may not have the DS Personal Trainer: Walking (Aruite Wakaru Seikatsu Rhythm DS) yet, but our Wiis are apparently ready to connect to it. As this video demonstrates, you can unlock the DS connection feature in your own Mii Channel right now, by pressing A, B, 1, and then holding 2. The Wii will start looking for DS systems nearby capable of interfacing with the Mii Channel -- which pretty much means Personal Trainer, into which Miis can be imported. Even if the connection fails, your Mii Channel will now feature a "connect to DS" button.

Sure, this may be useless, but it's like a cheat code -- for your system! How very cool. Has this always been there, or did it sneak in with the last update?

[Update: Apparently the feature's been there since last year, or maybe before, but the method had yet to be documented.]

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqDS connectivity feature found in Mii Channel originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>connectivitydsmii-channelnintendo-dspersonal-trainer-walkingupdateSun, 09 Nov 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo DSi blocks R4 carts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/nintendo-dsi-blocks-r4-carts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/nintendo-dsi-blocks-r4-carts/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/nintendo-dsi-blocks-r4-carts/#commentsFiled under:


OK, so maybe 90 percent of DS owners aren't using R4 carts to play pirated games on their DS systems, but it's still a problem for Nintendo, especially if it wants to have enough money to have both Shigeru Miyamoto and Howard Lincoln cloned.

But it seems as though the R4's days may be numbered, as it appears from the video below the jump that neither the carts nor Slot-1 cheat devices work in the brand new Nintendo DSi. Sorry, pirates. At least you still have the sea.

Continue reading Nintendo DSi blocks R4 carts

JoystiqNintendo DSi blocks R4 carts originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSdsinintendo-dsnintendo-dsipiracyr4Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Animal Crossing: Let's Go to the City (from the DS)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/animal-crossing-lets-go-to-the-city-from-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/animal-crossing-lets-go-to-the-city-from-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/animal-crossing-lets-go-to-the-city-from-the-ds/#commentsFiled under: ,


The latest trailer for the rapidly approaching Animal Crossing: City Folk offers a look at the process of migrating your DS Animal Crossing: Wild World character into City Folk. You may not be able to keep your house or your possessions, but migration allows you to maintain your character's appearance and Tom Nook shop catalog. If you want, you could probably recreate your DS house as soon as you got the money.

Head to the link for a second, longer trailer which shows the DS-Wii move in more detail, including the specific steps for moving your character.

JoystiqAnimal Crossing: Let's Go to the City (from the DS) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkAnimal-Crossing-DSanimal-crossing-wild-worldcommunicationNintendonintendo-dsNintendo-EADThu, 06 Nov 2008 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq interview: Hifumi Kouno on Infinite Space]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/joystiq-interview-hifumi-kouno-on-infinite-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/joystiq-interview-hifumi-kouno-on-infinite-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/28/joystiq-interview-hifumi-kouno-on-infinite-space/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Ever wanted to create your own spacecraft and sail the ocean of stars? Well, you can do that with Nude Maker and Platinum Games' Infinite Space for DS -- sorta. We caught up with Hifumi Kouno, both president of Nude Maker and director of Infinite Space, to find out more about the spaceship-building title that's due out next year.

Gallery: Infinite Space



Continue reading Joystiq interview: Hifumi Kouno on Infinite Space

JoystiqJoystiq interview: Hifumi Kouno on Infinite Space originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 21:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSinfinite-lineinfinite-spacenintendo-dsnude-makernudemakerplatinum-gamessegaTGStgs-08Tue, 28 Oct 2008 21:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Point/Counterpoint: Nintendo DSi]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/point-counterpoint-nintendo-dsi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/point-counterpoint-nintendo-dsi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/point-counterpoint-nintendo-dsi/#commentsFiled under:

Click to enter our DSi gallery.


It's on everyone's mind. The upcoming Nintendo DSi handheld is quite the attractive gadget ... or is it? We're back with another edition of Point/Counterpoint, this time dealing with Nintendo's upgraded portable system. Click the button below to read the pros and cons of Nintendo's DSi.



JoystiqPoint/Counterpoint: Nintendo DSi originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Oct 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ds-litedsihandheldnintendo-dsnintendo-ds-litenintendo-dsiFri, 10 Oct 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[New Wii Channel in the works?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/new-wii-channel-in-the-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/new-wii-channel-in-the-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/new-wii-channel-in-the-works/#commentsFiled under: ,


This one is a bit odd.

IGN recently published a kind of "What if?" story about connecting the DS and Wii versions of Guitar Hero together, to form some kind of Voltron-like super game. That's all well and good and we'll be the first to say that daydreaming is fun, but there was something curious tucked away within the three pages there.

"With a Wii channel already in the works that would output DS's audio from your TV speakers, it would be an impressive next step to sync the DS game with Wii, and use Guitar Hero Wii to truly interact with the pocket version." Wait a minute, there's a Channel in the works to output your DS's audio from your TV speakers? This is the first we've heard of anything like this (only the Speaker Channel comes to mind, but that's specifically for Band Brothers DX, so it doesn't fit).

What do you guys think? Error on IGN's part, or did they let something slip?

[Thanks, Sonic_13!]

JoystiqNew Wii Channel in the works? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Oct 2008 13:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondsds-liteguitar-heronintendonintendo-dswii-channelFri, 10 Oct 2008 13:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo officially unveils Nintendo DSi and online store, coming Nov 1 in Japan for $180]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/nintendo-officially-unveils-nintendo-dsi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/nintendo-officially-unveils-nintendo-dsi/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/nintendo-officially-unveils-nintendo-dsi/#commentsFiled under:


click for more images

Even before Nintendo announced it, the DSi had been the talk of the town. According to our Japanese correspondent, the DSi will be 12 percent thinner, and will get rid of the GBA slot entirely. The DSi will also include two built-in cameras (one reportedly VGA resolution) and music playback. It will add an SD card slot and internal storage (we don't yet know how much) to enhance its multimedia capabilities. The screens are now slightly larger at 3.25 inches, photos can be synced to the Wii Photo Channel, and the unit will include a free browser application.

Nintendo is also launching the "DSi Shop" to sell content directly over Wi-Fi. Prices for the store, which are also tied into Wii Nintendo Points, will use 0, 200, 500 and 800-point tiers. Until March 2010, 1000 Nintendo points will come bundled with the device.

Nintendo is calling the DSi a "third platform," implying that it's not competing with the DS -- though as a history lesson, the DS was originally a "third platform" against the now-retired Game Boy Advance.

The DSi will launch November 1 in black and white colors. It will cost ¥189,000 (approx. US $178). We won't fault you for misreading this as "iDS," given the very iPod Touch-esque additions.

Update: The official DSi website is up.

Update 2: Check out our comparison chart, Nintendo DSi vs. PSP-3000 vs. iPod Touch v1.0

Gallery: Nintendo DSi


[Image Source]

JoystiqNintendo officially unveils Nintendo DSi and online store, coming Nov 1 in Japan for $180 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsdsdsinintendonintendo-dsnintendo-dsiThu, 02 Oct 2008 00:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands & Vocals-on: Rock Revolution (DS)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/hands-and-vocals-on-rock-revolution-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/hands-and-vocals-on-rock-revolution-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/17/hands-and-vocals-on-rock-revolution-ds/#commentsFiled under: ,


We don't know what to make of Konami's DS version of Rock Revolution. The PS3/360 version is pretty easily summed up: it's Rock Band + a ridiculous drum - a functional GUI. While Rock Revolution screams "me too" on the home consoles, it's a rather innovative concept for Nintendo DS. Shouldn't that be commended?

Perhaps, but the ambitious concept is marred by lackluster execution. Rock Revolution DS gives players different ways of playing for the drums, guitars and yes, vocals. For better or worse, Konami has opted not to include a Guitar Hero-esque peripheral with its game, relying exclusively on touch-screen controls for the guitar sections of the game. Unfortunately, this turns out to be a rather uninvolved process. Icons appear from the top left and right of the screen, with arrows pointing in the direction the player should swipe their stylus. That's it. Even in the more challenging difficulties, swiping the stylus up and down gets plain ol' tiresome after a while.

The drums in Rock Revolution DS also mimic the console game's six-pad setup ... right down to the relentless difficulty. In this mode, color coded icons appear on the top screen, and players must hit the appropriate drum on the bottom screen. Unfortunately, this mode has inherited the console game's lackluster GUI, with an amateurish virtual drum design and illegible icons that make gameplay more difficult than it should be. The incredible disparity between easy and medium difficulties must also be noted: while the easy difficulty is borderline catatonic, the medium difficult sends a flurry of almost indecipherable notes that led us to near instant failure. Where's the middle ground? How will players make the transition from these wildly differing modes?

Gallery: Rock Revolution (DS)

Continue reading Hands & Vocals-on: Rock Revolution (DS)

JoystiqHands & Vocals-on: Rock Revolution (DS) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsjoystiq-featureskonaminintendo-dsrock-revolutionWed, 17 Sep 2008 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Fanboy Weekly: Aug 28 - Sep 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/nintendo-fanboy-weekly-aug-28-sep-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/nintendo-fanboy-weekly-aug-28-sep-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/nintendo-fanboy-weekly-aug-28-sep-3/#commentsFiled under: ,


We've got some great features and other original content that went down on the Nintendo Fanboys over the past week. Below, you'll find some great content to jam into your eyeballs from the world of Nintendo, so skip this unimportant text and hit the links below to check out our best stuff from the last week.

DS Stuff
Wii Stuff

Gallery: 5 Great GameCube Mods

Steady, Dak, it's just a GameCubeWe're falling for Wall-E, the GameCube modTurn your GameCube into a stylish clockHey! Listen! Play me!It's-a me, Airbrushed Mario

JoystiqNintendo Fanboy Weekly: Aug 28 - Sep 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSnintendo-dsnintendo-wiiweekly-recapwiiThu, 04 Sep 2008 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest Nintendo Power dishes out new Animal Crossing details, including DS-to-Wii functionality]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/latest-nintendo-power-dishes-out-new-animal-crossing-details-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/latest-nintendo-power-dishes-out-new-animal-crossing-details-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/22/latest-nintendo-power-dishes-out-new-animal-crossing-details-in/#commentsFiled under:


For many, Animal Crossing: City Folk looks a lot like the original GameCube game, both from a presentation standpoint and included features. Sure, Animal Crossing: City Folk has some new stuff, but none of it is really that innovative or indicative of the franchise going into any kind of new direction. It's basically the equivalent to treading water. But, it turns out that popular opinion may not be justified, as some new details regarding the game can be found in the upcoming issue of Nintendo Power.

First of all, those of you who spent time with Animal Crossing: Wild World on the DS, you can transfer your avatar over to the new game. Another cool DS-to-Wii feature will allow you to "take your travel data and download it to your DS." We've no idea what that will entail exactly, but it sounds promising.

As for the Wii game, the holiday-themed events will be returning. Jingle the Reindeer will be back for Toy Day and a new character, Zipper T. Bunny, will make an appearance for Bunny Day. Sound promising!

Continue reading Latest Nintendo Power dishes out new Animal Crossing details, including DS-to-Wii functionality

JoystiqLatest Nintendo Power dishes out new Animal Crossing details, including DS-to-Wii functionality originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Aug 2008 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkanimal-crossing-wild-worldcity-folkdlcdsnintendo-dsnintendo-wiiwiiwii-speakwild-worldFri, 22 Aug 2008 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Fanboy Weekly: Aug 14 - Aug 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/nintendo-fanboy-weekly-aug-14-aug-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/nintendo-fanboy-weekly-aug-14-aug-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/nintendo-fanboy-weekly-aug-14-aug-20/#commentsFiled under: ,


Wha? What is this? Well, to offer you a more streamlined recap of the goings-on in the Nintendo world, we've combined the DS Lite and Wii Fanboy Weekly recaps into one powerhouse, now dubbed Nintendo Fanboy Weekly. Hopefully, you'll like the new approach.

But enough of that, check out our links. They're homegrown with the finest original features and old coffee grinds.

The Best of DS
The Best of Wii

Gallery: Nintendo Wii mockups

JoystiqNintendo Fanboy Weekly: Aug 14 - Aug 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendonintendo-dsnintendo-wiiweekly-recapwiiWed, 20 Aug 2008 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[It finally ends: PSP no longer top selling hardware in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/it-finally-ends-psp-no-longer-top-selling-hardware-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/it-finally-ends-psp-no-longer-top-selling-hardware-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/15/it-finally-ends-psp-no-longer-top-selling-hardware-in-japan/#commentsFiled under:


All great things must come to an end. The PSP, which seemed like an unstoppable hardware selling juggernaut, finally came down from its lofty highs ... down to second place in Japan. In its place? Well, it's the DS ... Seems like the handheld console wars are back! Hold on, while we get some popcorn ...

Nintendo DS - 60,434
PSP - 58,501
Wii - 38,506
Xbox 360 - 24,962
PlayStation 3 - 9,673
PlayStation 2 - 8,503

Also shaking up the charts this week: the Xbox 360 outsells the PS3. Did something contaminate the Japanese water supply? There's so much drama this week!

[Image Source]

JoystiqIt finally ends: PSP no longer top selling hardware in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japannintendo-dspspsalesFri, 15 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[North American Gamestops to catch Palkia/Dialga DS Lite]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/09/american-gamestops-to-catch-palkia-dialga-ds-lite/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/09/american-gamestops-to-catch-palkia-dialga-ds-lite/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/09/american-gamestops-to-catch-palkia-dialga-ds-lite/#commentsFiled under:


We imagine that you, like us, have a cupboard in your dwelling that contains a dozen or so different models and hues of Nintendo's latest handheld. Every morning, you peruse your collection, trying to decide which DS suits your mood for that day -- perhaps the triforce-branded DS Lite, or the classic gray brick? As your ponder, you realize your collection is incomplete without the Poké-flavored handheld that reared its head in Japan nearly two years ago. You then consider selling your kidneys on the black market to afford a plane ticket to Tokyo, until your pushy physician informs you that you might need those.

Good news -- your precious organs can remain part of your body, as North American Gamestops recently began promoting the special edition DS Lite, branded with the critters on Pokémon Diamond and Pearl's box art -- Dialga and Palkia. The paltry sum of $129.99 will net you the system, a matching case, a 22-minute Pokémon Dungeon DVD, a poster featuring fellow pocket-sized monster Grovyle, and a T-shirt. No release date was announced for the bundle, but if Nintendo wishes for the new model to be truly relevant, we suggest launching it sometime last year.

JoystiqNorth American Gamestops to catch Palkia/Dialga DS Lite originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Aug 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dialgaDSds-litemodelnintendo-dspalkiapokemonpokemon-diamondpokemon-pearlSat, 09 Aug 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Training on Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/wii-warm-up-training-on-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/wii-warm-up-training-on-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/28/wii-warm-up-training-on-wii/#commentsFiled under:

Training games have been big on the DS, and a few have made it big on the Wii -- most notably, of course, Wii Fit -- but the lion's share of these "games" have remained on the DS. Big Brain Academy and My Word Coach are a few that have been on both systems. Have you tried them on both? We'd love to hear opinions about training games crossing the gulf, as it were. We're of the opinion that they're better when they're designed specifically for one system, and can thus play to that system's strength, but there are always exceptions.

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Training on Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jul 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendo-dsnon-gametraining-gameMon, 28 Jul 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brawl on the go with homebrew Super Smash Bros. Rumble]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/06/brawl-on-the-go-with-homebrew-super-smash-bros-rumble/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/06/brawl-on-the-go-with-homebrew-super-smash-bros-rumble/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/06/brawl-on-the-go-with-homebrew-super-smash-bros-rumble/#commentsFiled under: ,


Nineteen-year-old German homebrew programmer "Fuzzy" recently revealed his latest project for Nintendo's dual-screened handheld; a portable port of Nintendo's franchise mash-up brawler, titled Super Smash Bros. Rumble. The above shakycam video reveals the early fruits of his labor -- so far, only three levels and one character (Mario) are available. It obviously needs a massive amount of work, particularly in the character design and animation departments, but it's a wicked idea. We hope that Fuzzy will continue working on this inspired project, provided that Ninty's legal juggernauts abide.

JoystiqBrawl on the go with homebrew Super Smash Bros. Rumble originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsfuzzyhomebrewmarionintendo-dsrumblesmash-brossuper-smash-bros-rumbleSun, 06 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese classrooms using Nintendo DS to teach English]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/japanese-classrooms-using-nintendo-ds-to-teach-english/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/japanese-classrooms-using-nintendo-ds-to-teach-english/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/28/japanese-classrooms-using-nintendo-ds-to-teach-english/#commentsFiled under:


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

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

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsds-liteeducationenglishjapanesejoshi-gakuennintendo-dsschoolSat, 28 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MS supports Viva Piņata franchise heading to DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/ms-supports-viva-pinata-franchise-heading-to-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/ms-supports-viva-pinata-franchise-heading-to-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/ms-supports-viva-pinata-franchise-heading-to-ds/#commentsFiled under:

Chatting with Eurogamer, Rare engineer Joe Humfrey re-confirmed Microsoft's' understanding ways when talking about Viva Piñata making its way to rival Nintendo's DS, saying that "they see DS as a very viable platform." Humfrey is of course talking about their upcoming Viva Piñata: Pocket Paradise project that'll bring those adorable piñatas to the DS. Which, admittedly, seems a bit odd at first, but makes sense from an "let's do all we can to expand the franchise" mindset. "They put the Viva Piñata franchise on TV to reach a broad audience, they put it on PC to reach a different broad audience, and they're doing the same thing with the DS," says Humfrey, "they're trying to widen the audience of the franchise."

And we fully agree. A DS version of Viva Piñata is going to roxorz and Microsoft should embrace Nintendo's portable handheld, that is until our Xboy releases. When that happens, we won't play nice with Nintendo.

JoystiqMS supports Viva Piņata franchise heading to DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsmicrosoftnintendonintendo-dsrareviva-pinataWed, 11 Jun 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New DS 'colours' hitting Europe [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/rumor-new-ds-colours-hitting-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/rumor-new-ds-colours-hitting-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/rumor-new-ds-colours-hitting-europe/#commentsFiled under:


Put down that masking tape and spray paint. At least one European retailer is advertising a better - official - solution to your want need hunger for a spiffier-colored DS (and one that doesn't require sending your lil' buddy into the gizmo body shop). Spanish online games shop Game.es has listed three new DS Lite offerings - "Slime Lime Green," "Hot Red," and "Ice Blue" - with on-virtual-shelf dates of June 13, 2008.

Sure, they could be quick Photoshop-ery, but a retailer isn't exactly going to win over customers by taking pre-orders for hardware that will never be. We hope they're legit and will pop up on US shelves before the year's out. Now, can we please have some new Wii colors?

Update: Confirmed.

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqNew DS 'colours' hitting Europe [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendo-dsTue, 20 May 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Point: Uh, yeah, it totally will get redesigned]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/point-uh-yeah-it-totally-will-get-redesigned/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/point-uh-yeah-it-totally-will-get-redesigned/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/point-uh-yeah-it-totally-will-get-redesigned/#commentsFiled under:


While we all think it would be totally rad if Nintendo issued either another redesigned DS model or a whole new handheld unit altogether, certain things must be considered first. Like, will it make Nintendo some money? Also, is there a demand? And, finally, is the DS as it is now outdated and no longer a viable option for the consumer?

Let's look at the facts, folks:
  • The original Game Boy released in 1989 and saw several revisions, including a color change in 1995, a smaller system in the Game Boy Pocket in 1996, the Game Boy Light in 1997 and the Game Boy Color in 1998
  • The Game Boy Advance released in 2001 and saw 2 revisions before it was officially retired, with the Game Boy Advance SP releasing in 2003 and the Game Boy Advance Micro releasing in 2005
  • The original DS was released in 2004 and since has received one revision, in the DS Lite, which released in 2006
But, this is not all that needs be considered. For one, the DS Lite is still selling incredibly well, and Nintendo might think to adopt the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" plan of attack on this one, choosing to sit back and let the thing sell as long as it possibly can. However, due to the lowering manufacturing costs and Nintendo's profit on each unit sold, a revision with newer features might be manufactured for the same, or a very similar, price. This would allow Nintendo to sell the new unit at a higher price than the DS Lite and make even more money on each handheld sold. There goes the answer to the first question.

What about demand? Well, the demand for the existing DS Lite is there, but we'll be the first to tell you that, while we love the handheld , it's not perfect. Alterations in the best interest of the handheld may still be made, including generic improvements such as improving battery life and the like.If the people still love the DS Lite, we find little reason for them not to upgrade and froth at the mouth for something like a DS Liter.

What about its use to the consumer? Does it still remain a great choice for the general consumer? Sure, but in technology years, the thing is like a Brontosauras with Jesus resting comfortably on top of it. What we're saying is, the thing is old. While its appeal may never go away thanks to the easy control scheme and mountains of amazing titles available for it, one cannot ignore the competition. As new features are released everyday for Sony's PSP system, the DS Lite is increasingly dwarfed by the technological wizardry capable with Sony's handheld. If Nintendo went with a new version of the DS, we'd like to see them implement some of the more standard technological features that exist in other handheld devices on the market.

So will Nintendo release a revision to the DS? Sure, whether it's a new handheld entirely or a new DS, Nintendo would be crazy not to build on what they have with the DS Lite. Will we see it at E3 this year? This blogger thinks so, because, to be honest, what other megatons could they possibly drop on us?
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Back Not so fast there!

JoystiqPoint: Uh, yeah, it totally will get redesigned originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ds-litegame-boygame-boy-advancegbanintendonintendo-dsnintendo-ds-liteplaystationplaystation-portablepspredesignsonysony-pspWed, 14 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Joystiq helps protect your DS screen]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/ask-joystiq-helps-protect-your-ds-screen/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/ask-joystiq-helps-protect-your-ds-screen/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/ask-joystiq-helps-protect-your-ds-screen/#commentsFiled under: ,

This week on Ask Joystiq, we help you protect those scratch-loving screens on the Nintendo DS. If you have any burning questions, unsolved gaming mysteries, or just a desire for musings from our knowledgeable cadre of writers, drop us a line at ask AAT joystiq DAWT com (and yes, we write it that way for a reason).

Q: Do you guys have a preference for which DS Lite screen protectors to use? I've heard from people that the Hori branded ones make the screen less responsive which is something I don't want for my Elite Beat Agent sessions. So I'm basically looking for DS screen protectors that manages to retain much of the sensitivity of the touch screens, any suggestions?
-- Matthew C

Response after the break.

Continue reading Ask Joystiq helps protect your DS screen

JoystiqAsk Joystiq helps protect your DS screen originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 May 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask-joystiqDSjoystiqfeaturesnintendo-dsscreen-protectorFri, 09 May 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo denies new DS model, we smile patronizingly]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/nintendo-denies-ds-model-we-smile-patronizingly/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/nintendo-denies-ds-model-we-smile-patronizingly/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/nintendo-denies-ds-model-we-smile-patronizingly/#commentsFiled under:

Though it often seems that the internet has the attention span of a Pixie-Stix-maddened toddler at a Pokemon zoo, it makes up for it with a long memory. Take, for instance, yesterday's denial from Nintendo of a new DS model rumored to be on the horizon last week. Oh, Nintendo? Oh really?

Internet, we direct your attention to January 25, 2006 when a Big N spokesperson denied having any knowledge of a new DS one day before announcing the DS Lite. So, Nintendo, we hope you'll forgive us if we're more inclined to just wait for E3 than to believe the lie factory you call a mouth.

...That was a little harsh, wasn't it? Sorry, we just really want to buy the DS again.

JoystiqNintendo denies new DS model, we smile patronizingly originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dse308nintendonintendo-dsrumorsWed, 16 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart tracks make the jump from DS to Wii, look awesome]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/mario-kart-tracks-make-the-jump-from-ds-to-wii-look-awesome/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/mario-kart-tracks-make-the-jump-from-ds-to-wii-look-awesome/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/11/mario-kart-tracks-make-the-jump-from-ds-to-wii-look-awesome/#commentsFiled under:


Delfino Square (Mario Kart DS)

It's common knowledge that half of Mario Kart Wii's 32 tracks are classic circuits from previous games in the series, but how kind has the transition been? IGN decided to find out, by comparing footage of tracks from Mario Kart DS with the updated versions that will appear in the Wii game.

At this point, we should probably state that we weren't initially thrilled to hear of Yoshi Falls being revived. With its wide corners and broad straights, Yoshi Falls in Mario Kart DS was far too easy and item-dependent. In Mario Kart Wii, however, the extra four karts in each race are just what's needed to make the same circuit look far more involving; it doesn't appear to be too big now. IGN also compared Delfino Square -- already a fine track on the DS -- and it looks predictably fantastic on the Wii. The visuals, as you'd expect, have made a significant leap forward.

Accelerate past the break to watch Delfino Square being played on the Wii, as well as footage of Yoshi Falls from both titles.

Continue reading Mario Kart tracks make the jump from DS to Wii, look awesome

JoystiqMario Kart tracks make the jump from DS to Wii, look awesome originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-kartnintendo-dsracingTue, 11 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo shifts more developers to the Wii, less to the DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/nintendo-shifts-more-developers-to-the-wii-less-to-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/nintendo-shifts-more-developers-to-the-wii-less-to-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/28/nintendo-shifts-more-developers-to-the-wii-less-to-the-ds/#commentsFiled under:

There comes a time in every system's life when its parent has to take off the kid gloves and say goodbye. Nintendo might not being doing that just yet with the DS, but the company is decreasing the amount of developers working on DS titles.

That doesn't mean Nintendo will be facing empty nest syndrome, though. By coddling the DS a little less, more developers can (and will) be able to focus on Wii games. The Wii will surely benefit from this, as more manpower means quicker game releases. As for the DS, don't fret. The handheld is littered with third-party titles, and it's not like Nintendo is jumping ship completely on its portable money-printer.

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqNintendo shifts more developers to the Wii, less to the DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jan 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>developerdsnintendo-dsMon, 28 Jan 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS surpasses PlayStation 2 in Japanese lifetime sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/30/ds-surpasses-playstation-2-in-japanese-lifetime-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/30/ds-surpasses-playstation-2-in-japanese-lifetime-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/30/ds-surpasses-playstation-2-in-japanese-lifetime-sales/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's probably news to nobody at this point that during this past year, Nintendo fever swept through Japan like the Great Chicago Fire. Just by looking at a handful of recent hardware sales charts, the Big N's dominance over the land of the rising sun is explicitly clear -- the Wii always sold like hotcakes, and the DS Lite consistently took the top spot on the list. Over the holiday sales season, however, the DS earned its most notable bragging right to date, breaking the PS2 Japanese lifetime sales record by the skin of its teeth.

According to recent Media Create sales numbers (as crunched and compiled by NeoGAF), the DS has sold 20,954,157 units to date in Japan, compared to the PS2's 20,901,468. Though Nintendo's touchable handheld hasn't yet approached the worldwide console sales record (an honor which the PS2 still holds by a considerable margin), being the highest selling console in one of the most-gaming centric nations in the world is still a pretty sizable victory. Grats, little guy.

[Via DS Fanboy]

JoystiqDS surpasses PlayStation 2 in Japanese lifetime sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 30 Dec 2007 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSDS-LiteJapanNintendoNintendo-DSPS2Sales-ChartsSonySun, 30 Dec 2007 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii passes lifetime sales of GameCube in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/wii-passes-lifetime-sales-of-gamecube-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/wii-passes-lifetime-sales-of-gamecube-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/13/wii-passes-lifetime-sales-of-gamecube-in-japan/#commentsFiled under:


NeoGAFfer JoshuaJSlone has devoted a serious amount of time to compiling weekly hardware sales figures in Japan, as they appear in Famitsu. That sounds like a task of almost Sisyphean proportions, but it's not all thankless. This week, for instance, his legwork and terrifying table of numbers (mercifully translated into the graph above) threw up an interesting little factoid: lifetime sales of the Wii in Japan have now surpassed those of the GameCube. Which is darn impressive, considering the Wii has been in Japanese stores for just 54 weeks.

Our new favorite NeoGAFfer also took the time to compare those first 54 weeks of the Wii's life with other consoles. Turns out the GBA needed only 40 weeks to reach where the Wii is now, and the DS an almost identical 53.7 weeks. What could have been in a world without Wii shortages, eh? Interestingly, the Wii is even outperforming the PlayStation 2, which required approximately 66 weeks to reach the Wii's current total.

For more graph-related tomfoolery, and to see how the PS3 is faring against the Wii (clue: it's not faring well, but let's not be complacent), head past the break.

Continue reading Wii passes lifetime sales of GameCube in Japan

JoystiqWii passes lifetime sales of GameCube in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Dec 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamecubegbahardwarejapannintendo-dsps2ps3salesThu, 13 Dec 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A year of Wii: The PAL verdict]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/23/a-year-of-wii-the-pal-verdict/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/23/a-year-of-wii-the-pal-verdict/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/23/a-year-of-wii-the-pal-verdict/#commentsFiled under:



Being a devotee of Nintendo in a PAL region is probably a bit like marriage (I'd urge you to stick with me here, because I've thought this analogy through for at least four minutes). For years, you slog away at the relationship, mildly irritated by the other person's foibles and imperfections, like that weird bumpy mole on their back, or how they noisily slurp soup, or how they insist on playing nothing but Keane during long car journeys.

Then every so often, you have your disputes, arguing about the merits of Magnolia Eggshell and Cream Eggshell in the aisle of Lowe's. And sometimes, these disagreements might build up to something bigger in your mind, begin to fester, and perhaps you occasionally think, "Is this it? Is this the rest of my life?" But then, something strange happens -- every so often, the other person does something really fantastic, something that reminds you exactly why you got hitched in the first place, and why you settled on this individual as your soul mate. And suddenly, everything is well with the world, or at least until it's soup night again.

The point of this long-winded comparison being: as a gamer in the UK, that pretty much sums up my relationship with Nintendo. For years now, PAL region gamers have often been treated fairly shabbily by Nintendo. I'll freely admit it doesn't take much too rile us -- we hardcore types are notoriously tough to please -- though Nintendo doesn't always help itself. Its insistence that we receive games or hardware late, or not at all, or borked ... well it's just plain infuriating is what it is. The prices, as well, leave a lot to be desired. And totally rad free gifts? Yea, forget about those.

Continue reading A year of Wii: The PAL verdict

JoystiqA year of Wii: The PAL verdict originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Nov 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Animal-Crossinganniversary-weekaustraliadelayeuropeGameCubeimportjoystiqfeatureslaunchluigis-mansionmario-kart-wiiMetroid-Primemiyamotonintendo-dspalPikminrip-offsmgsonysuper-mario-galaxyukFri, 23 Nov 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NIS goes casual for the Nintendo DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/nis-goes-casual-for-the-nintendo-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/nis-goes-casual-for-the-nintendo-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/20/nis-goes-casual-for-the-nintendo-ds/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Our first thought when told of a new game from console strategy stalwart NIS America, the North American arm of Japan's Nippon Ichi, was of another fun yet grueling turn-based grind fest along the lines of Disgaea or Phantom Brave. Knowing that it's for the Nintendo DS only got us more excited, as we've been pining for one of these games to make the leap to Nintendo's touchable handheld for some time. Unfortunately, our hopes - and hearts - were broken when we ultimately learned that NIS's latest localization effort is a casual puzzler from Jaleco called Puchi Puchi Virus.

As the company's initial venture into the world of puzzle games, NIS notes that it is careful to distinguish its game from traditional block droppers and other "ordinary puzzle games," and describes Puchi Puchi Virus as having "a more intuitive system of object linkage." In this game, the object is to link together icons in triangular patterns in order to erase them and ultimately clear the screen, while simultaneously working to satisfy each stage's different victory conditions. In addition, this game looks to be the first of several casual games undertaken by the publisher, as NIS has also unveiled a cute, wing-laden version of its logo to symbolize this new push to court the ever-popular casual crowd.

This is fine. We can share you, NIS. But make no mistake if you begin to hang out too much with your new casual friends, and leave strategy enthusiasts sitting alone at the table staring at a cold dinner night after night, we're calling for an intervention.

JoystiqNIS goes casual for the Nintendo DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Nov 2007 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSjaleconintendo-dsnippon-ichinispuchi-puchi-viruspuzzle-gamesTue, 20 Nov 2007 09:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Point-and-click, yea or nay?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/24/wii-warm-up-point-and-click-yea-or-nay/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/24/wii-warm-up-point-and-click-yea-or-nay/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/24/wii-warm-up-point-and-click-yea-or-nay/#commentsFiled under:

The Nintendo DS really revived the point-and-click adventure genre for consoles. Because of the nature of the Wiimote, we're not surprised to see some point-and-click action hit the Wii, too. With games like Zack & Wiki: Quest for Barbaros' Treasure and Harvey Birdman leading the way, we're sure that the Wii will see many others of this breed to come.

Will you welcome these types of games to the Wii with open arms, or spit at them as they walk through the door? Perhaps you prefer to keep your point-and-click portable? Or maybe you just (shudder) hate the genre in general?

So which is it: yea to point-and-click, or nay?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Point-and-click, yea or nay? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Oct 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AdventureNintendo-DSPoint-and-clickWiimoteWed, 24 Oct 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy Lite: Sept. 28, 2007 - Oct. 5, 2007]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/ds-fanboy-lite-september-28-2007-october-5-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/ds-fanboy-lite-september-28-2007-october-5-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/ds-fanboy-lite-september-28-2007-october-5-2007/#commentsFiled under:


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JoystiqDS Fanboy Lite: Sept. 28, 2007 - Oct. 5, 2007 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Oct 2007 23:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSds-fanboynintendo-dsweekly-recapFri, 05 Oct 2007 23:58:00 EST