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[Iwata: Merging hardware teams could result in more hardware]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/iwata-merging-hardware-teams-could-result-in-more-hardware/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/iwata-merging-hardware-teams-could-result-in-more-hardware/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/05/iwata-merging-hardware-teams-could-result-in-more-hardware/#comments Speaking to investors, Nintendo president Satoru Iwata elaborated on Nintendo's aims regarding the merger of its console and handheld development teams. Iwata takes the surprising stance that putting the two teams together in Kyoto will result in more potential platforms, not fewer.

"What we are saying is that we would like to integrate software development methods, operating systems, and built-in software and software assets for each platform so that we can use them across different machines," Iwata said. "This means that if we manage to integrate our platforms successfully, we may in fact be able to make more platforms." Iwata explained that the ability to share development resources and assets between teams will allow them to work more efficiently, and that they would be "spread too thinly" if they tried to work on more than the current console and handheld platforms.


As usual, it's impossible to guess what Nintendo is up to in specific terms. "We feel that we are nearing a saturation point in terms of simply improving performance or enhancing graphics," Iwata said. "What is far more important for the future of video games is whether we can make new propositions in other aspects and create games out of something that people never expected to see in the form of a game." The problem with things we never expect to see is that we don't know what to expect, and therefore what to tell you.

JoystiqIwata: Merging hardware teams could result in more hardware originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsnintendonintendo-eadsatoru-iwatawiiwii-uTue, 05 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Mario 3D and Mario Kart announced, playable at E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/new-mario-3d-and-mario-kart-announced-playable-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/new-mario-3d-and-mario-kart-announced-playable-at-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/new-mario-3d-and-mario-kart-announced-playable-at-e3/#comments During today's Nintendo Direct, company president Satoru Iwata announced that the team behind 3D Mario is working on a new installment for Wii U. A new Mario Kart is also en route to the platform.

The games will be playable at this year's E3, during which we'll learn whether they'll be in homes by the holidays.

JoystiqNew Mario 3D and Mario Kart announced, playable at E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsmario-3dmario-kartnintendonintendo-directnintendo-eadwii-uWed, 23 Jan 2013 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo to merge handheld and console divisions by next month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/nintendo-to-merge-handheld-and-console-divisions-by-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/nintendo-to-merge-handheld-and-console-divisions-by-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/nintendo-to-merge-handheld-and-console-divisions-by-next-month/#comments Nintendo to merge handheld and console divisions by next monthNintendo plans to unite its console and handheld divisions by February 16, combining the two into a singular unit tasked with creating next-generation hardware. As reported by Nikkei, and then confirmed to Engadget by Nintendo, the combined unit will initially incorporate 150 handheld and 130 console engineers, and operate out of a new $340 million facility located just by the company's headquarters (pictured above) in Kyoto, with the facility due to be completed by the end of 2013.

The move represents Nintendo's first major organizational restructuring in around a decade. In 2002, Satoru Iwata replaced Hiroshi Yamauchi as president of Nintendo, and initiated a move which saw the company's two Research & Development teams re-assigned into the Entertainment, Analysis, and Development division.

Today's news follows speculation around Nintendo's restructuring plans which suggested Shigeru Miyamoto would retire from his position as Nintendo EAD boss, being replaced by EAD deputy manager Takashi Tezuka. In a 2011 interview, Miyamoto noted Nintendo ought to be "structured" to operate without him before he'd leave the company.

JoystiqNintendo to merge handheld and console divisions by next month originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsjapannintendonintendo-eadrestructuringsatoru-iwatashigeru-miyamotowii-uWed, 16 Jan 2013 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Lets-a go look at nearly 70 New Super Mario Bros. 2 screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/06/lets-a-go-look-at-nearly-70-new-super-mario-bros-2-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/06/lets-a-go-look-at-nearly-70-new-super-mario-bros-2-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/06/lets-a-go-look-at-nearly-70-new-super-mario-bros-2-screens/#comments Letsa go look at nearly 70 New Super Mario Bros 2 screensStop looking at whatever else it was you were looking at and start looking at this incredible wealth of New Super Mario Bros. 2 screens. No, seriously, you should start looking. It's gonna take a while.

Continue reading Lets-a go look at nearly 70 New Super Mario Bros. 2 screens

JoystiqLets-a go look at nearly 70 New Super Mario Bros. 2 screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2012 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsgameplaynew-super-mario-bros-2nintendonintendo-eadnintendo-japannintendo-of-japanFri, 06 Jul 2012 11:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Pikmin 3 lacking online multiplayer because ... there are a bunch of Pikmin]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/pikmin-3-lacking-online-multiplayer-because-there-are-a-bunc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/pikmin-3-lacking-online-multiplayer-because-there-are-a-bunc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/13/pikmin-3-lacking-online-multiplayer-because-there-are-a-bunc/#comments Pikmin 3 lacking online multiplayer because there are a bunch of PikminNintendo's upcoming Wii U console will be the company's most internet-enabled yet. Its Miiverse intends to greatly expand on the Wii's Mii Plaza, its Friend Codes will be "a lot simpler" than previous versions of Nintendo's online buddy system, and many of its retail games will also be available digitally. In that context, it's hard to understand why the Wii U's flagship first-party title, Pikmin 3, won't include online multiplayer.

"In the situation of Pikmin, for example, since you would have lots of individual, small creatures, the Pikmin, whose every movement and location is going to be really important in the game, it would be very difficult to sync up over an internet connection," Nintendo design lead Shigeru Miyamoto told IGN in a recent interview. While Miyamoto acknowledges that games like, say, Mario Kart Wii were online-enabled, it apparently wouldn't be possible with Pikmin 3 on Wii U.

Mario Kart worked, he said, because Nintendo was able to make up for any dropped frames over an internet connection. The issues with Pikmin 3 going online are different, and apparently insurmountable. "Unfortunately, no online multiplayer for Pikmin 3," he said.

"But the co-op local multiplayer is really fun."

JoystiqPikmin 3 lacking online multiplayer because ... there are a bunch of Pikmin originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jun 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendonintendo-eadonlineonline-multiplayerpikmin-3shigeru-miyamotowii-uWed, 13 Jun 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sakurai explains Kid Icarus: Uprising's contentious controls]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/sakurai-explains-kid-icarus-uprisings-contentious-controls/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/sakurai-explains-kid-icarus-uprisings-contentious-controls/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/04/sakurai-explains-kid-icarus-uprisings-contentious-controls/#comments The thing about Kid Icarus: Uprising is that, even though it induces carpal-tunnel syndrome, it's just so gosh-darned fun. Developer Project Sora's director Masahiro Sakurai has offered some insight into the control scheme and some tips for a more comfortable gaming experience - beyond "use the stand," that is.

"I think any game needs to provide new experiences and stimulating things to discover, but if we provided run-of-the-mill controls for it, that cuts down on the game's potential," Sakurai told IGN. "If a player used to touchscreen-based aiming played against someone used to right-analog control, the first player would probably dominate. The speed is on a whole different level."

As for the pain in your hand, Sakurai has an easy solution: relax. "If there are players who say that it makes their hand tired, that's because you're applying too much force. Try to relax and work on building a rhythm to your control. Place the pen in the middle of the touchscreen; when you're flicking it, take the pen off the screen as you're sweeping with it, and stop right there. That's the basic idea." So in short, don't press too hard and try to be more elegant in your wrist control - it takes practice.

Oh, and if you're a lefty, just know how lucky you are to be able to play Kid Icarus: Uprising with a Circle Pad Pro - left-handed controls almost didn't make their way into the game. "Considering how close to the limit we pushed the 3DS during development, it's a miracle that we were even able to provide support for left-handed controls at the point of completion. Providing support for independent analog control was something that was technically impossible."

JoystiqSakurai explains Kid Icarus: Uprising's contentious controls originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dskid-icarus-uprisingmasahiro-sakurainintendonintendo-eadproject-soraFri, 04 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Old Nintendo picture book highlights young Miyamoto, other Mario vets]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/old-nintendo-picture-book-highlights-young-miyamoto-other-mario/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/old-nintendo-picture-book-highlights-young-miyamoto-other-mario/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/old-nintendo-picture-book-highlights-young-miyamoto-other-mario/#comments When Chris Covell went to a "local library" recently -- local for him being "in Japan" -- he didn't grab just any book. Instead, he grabbed a picture book made for children named "The Stars of Famicom Games: How Video Games Are Made," wherein legendary Japanese developers like Shigeru Miyamoto, Koji Kondo, and Takashi Tezuka are caught in revealing images, behind the scenes of Super Mario Bros. 3's development.

Beyond all the devs looking many, many years younger (the images were taken in summer 1989), the photos depict an all-star development team crafting one of the most beloved gaming experiences of all time. If your morning has been sadly devoid of EPROMs and late '80s Japanese haircuts, this conveniently translated feature is perfect for you.

[Image credit: Chris Covell]

JoystiqOld Nintendo picture book highlights young Miyamoto, other Mario vets originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bookschris-covellkoji-kondonintendo-eadshigeru-miyamotosuper-mario-bros-3takashi-tezukathe-stars-of-famicom-games-how-video-games-are-madeMon, 19 Dec 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shigeru Miyamoto 'retiring from current position' at Nintendo, working on smaller games [update: Nintendo denies]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/report-shigeru-miyamoto-retiring-from-current-position-at-nin/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/report-shigeru-miyamoto-retiring-from-current-position-at-nin/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/report-shigeru-miyamoto-retiring-from-current-position-at-nin/#comments Update: A Nintendo spokesperson tells Reuters that the report of Shigeru Miyamoto stepping down to a different position is "absolutely not true." The company asserts the story is a "misunderstanding," and that Miyamoto has "no intention" of stepping down.

Original story: "I'm not saying that I'm going to retire from game development altogether. What I mean by retiring is, retiring from my current position," Nintendo head of development and long-time game industry figurehead Shigeru Miyamoto told Wired's Game|Life blog in an interview this week. It appears, after a lengthy career spent creating some of the game industry's most popular and important franchises, Miyamoto is altering his role at the company.

"What I really want to do is be in the forefront of game development once again myself. Probably working on a smaller project with even younger developers. Or I might be interested in making something that I can make myself, by myself. Something really small," he explained further. Miyamoto isn't quitting development, though. Apparently he's looking to start a new project in 2012, and hopes to show it publicly by year's end.

"In other words, I'm not intending to start from things that require a five-year development time," he added. While he won't be changing roles immediately, the idea behind announcing his retirement is to spur the less veteran devs at Nintendo to step up. "I'm interested in doing a variety of many other things," he teased.

JoystiqShigeru Miyamoto 'retiring from current position' at Nintendo, working on smaller games [update: Nintendo denies] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 21:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsLegend-of-Zelda-2010nintendonintendo-eadshigeru-miyamotoThe-Legend-of-Zelda-Skyward-Swordwiiwii-uWed, 07 Dec 2011 21:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Oops! Game-halting bug in Skyward Sword (and how to avoid it)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/oops-game-halting-bug-in-skyward-sword-and-how-to-avoid-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/oops-game-halting-bug-in-skyward-sword-and-how-to-avoid-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/oops-game-halting-bug-in-skyward-sword-and-how-to-avoid-it/#comments If you're currently many hours deep into The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword -- say, around the "Song of the Hero" quest -- you'd better be careful. According to an email from Nintendo sent to Zelda Informer, you may encounter a game-breaking glitch if you complete tasks in a certain order during the "Song of the Hero" quest. If you save after the bug is in effect and don't have an earlier file as a backup, you'll have to start Skyward Sword over.

If you complete the quest's desert leg first and speak to a Goron gentleman not once, but twice, the game locks out completion of the other two portions, halting all progress in the game. That said, it's pretty easy to avoid: just don't talk to the Goron more than once. Done! (Alternatively, do not complete the desert part first.)

Nintendo gets more specific in describing the glitch in its letter, which we've dropped below the break. We've reached out to Nintendo to see if a patch will be issued for the game, but the company's official release unfortunately didn't indicate as much.

Continue reading Oops! Game-halting bug in Skyward Sword (and how to avoid it)

JoystiqOops! Game-halting bug in Skyward Sword (and how to avoid it) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buggame-breakingglitchLegend-of-Zelda-2010nintendonintendo-eadThe-Legend-of-Zelda-Skyward-SwordwiiTue, 06 Dec 2011 09:40:00 EST<![CDATA[The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword review: Such great heights]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/the-legend-of-zelda-skyward-sword-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/the-legend-of-zelda-skyward-sword-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/the-legend-of-zelda-skyward-sword-review/#comments The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is a game that is going to mean a lot of different things to a lot of different people. For the base which took hold of Nintendo's initial vision for the Wii console, imagining future games where the controller in your hand was -- hey! -- not a controller, but the Master Sword itself; it is that. For those who simply imagined a narrative evolution of the long, long-stagnant Hylian franchise, it is that, too. For Wii owners who just want something to play, it is that as well. It must be that.

As the flagship component of the Zelda franchise's 25th Anniversary, you couldn't ask for a better identikit of the series. As it moves through the all-too-familiar cycle of temples, tools and time-travel, it touches on the franchise's lowest points, adopts its most stellar attributes and, at frequent intervals, taps into a kind of magic that no game ever has before.

Continue reading The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword review: Such great heights

JoystiqThe Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword review: Such great heights originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Legend-of-Zelda-2010nintendonintendo-eadThe-Legend-of-Zelda-Skyward-SwordwiizeldaFri, 11 Nov 2011 03:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario 3D Land comes with new 3DS firmware]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/super-mario-3d-land-comes-with-new-3ds-firmware/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/super-mario-3d-land-comes-with-new-3ds-firmware/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/super-mario-3d-land-comes-with-new-3ds-firmware/#comments Japanese Super Mario 3D Land carts have started dropping into 3DS slots, and early reports from the country indicate that the game comes packed with brand new firmware for the system. What does the firmware update do, you wonder? Apparently, it makes the portable's friends list a bit more functional -- a button will now allow you to join a friend's game in progress. It seems that the update isn't an early release of the upcoming November one, which brings a variety of features.

The firmware update also adds a modification to the console's ability to play flashcarts, a notorious game piracy culprit on portable consoles. Like most game-based firmware updates, the cart requires the update before allowing the user to access Super Mario 3D Land, so, uh, resistance is kinda futile. It's unclear whether the same firmware update will be present on US and EU carts when the game ships in the coming weeks, but we've asked Nintendo for clarification and will update the story if we hear back.

JoystiqSuper Mario 3D Land comes with new 3DS firmware originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 11:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsfirmwarefirmware-updatefriends-listnintendonintendo-eadsuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dupdateThu, 03 Nov 2011 11:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest Skyward Sword assets put Link in a trial by fire]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/latest-skyward-sword-assets-put-link-in-a-trial-by-fire/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/latest-skyward-sword-assets-put-link-in-a-trial-by-fire/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/28/latest-skyward-sword-assets-put-link-in-a-trial-by-fire/#comments
Despite the obvious perils of venturing into volcanoes and "fire sanctuaries," our hero Link (of Zelda's lengthy legend) takes to both potentially fatal locales with his usual aplomb in these latest trailers for The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword. Be careful, little Link!

Gallery: The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword (10/28/11)

Continue reading Latest Skyward Sword assets put Link in a trial by fire

JoystiqLatest Skyward Sword assets put Link in a trial by fire originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gameplayLegend-of-Zelda-2010nintendonintendo-eadThe-Legend-of-Zelda-Skyward-SwordwiiFri, 28 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Deja Review: Star Fox 64 3D]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/deja-review-star-fox-64-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/deja-review-star-fox-64-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/09/deja-review-star-fox-64-3d/#commentsWe're of the firm opinion that your time is too precious, too valuable to be spent reading a full review for a game that was already reviewed many, many years ago. What's the point of applying a score to a game that's old enough to be enrolled in the sixth grade? That's why we invented Deja Review: A quick look at the new features and relative agelessness of remade, revived and re-released games.
If you've spent any time with the Nintendo 3DS -- especially if that time was spent with the handheld's aeronautical launch title, Pilotwings Resort -- you're probably aware that flying games are right in this handheld's wheelhouse. Moving forward through the sky as objects and other pilots move towards, around and behind you looks invariably dope with the 3D slider turned on; this law is no less incontrovertible in the system's latest first-party remake: Star Fox 64 3D.

But games can't live on dopeness alone -- they need meat on their bones as well. Star Fox has no lack of content, but if you owned the Nintendo 64 original and thoroughly explored its brief and branching campaign back in 1997, you've probably seen that content plenty of times before. Much like Ocarina of Time 3D before it, Star Fox 64 3D is banking on a single bulletpoint to earn your purchase: You've never seen that content quite like this.

Gallery: Starfox 64 3D (Comic Con 2011)

Continue reading Deja Review: Star Fox 64 3D

JoystiqDeja Review: Star Fox 64 3D originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdeja-reviewdsnintendonintendo-eadq-gamesremakestar-foxstar-fox-64-3dFri, 09 Sep 2011 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Dive through the clouds with Link in the latest Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/dive-through-the-clouds-with-link-in-the-latest-legend-of-zelda/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/dive-through-the-clouds-with-link-in-the-latest-legend-of-zelda/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/dive-through-the-clouds-with-link-in-the-latest-legend-of-zelda/#comments We've seen an awful lot of Link sporting goofy farmer clothes in The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword, but the latest trailer plays on key nostalgia factors. Green tunic? Check. Z-targeting? You bet! Losing Zelda to "evil forces?" Of course. And there's a bonus, too: big birds!

JoystiqDive through the clouds with Link in the latest Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comic-con-2011gameplayLegend-of-Zelda-2010nintendonintendo-eadsan-diego-comic-consan-diego-comic-con-2011sdcc-2011The-Legend-of-Zelda-Skyward-SwordwiiThu, 21 Jul 2011 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Ocarina of Time 3DS ad starring Robin Williams, his daughter, and a tremendous beard]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/ocarina-of-time-3ds-ad-starring-robin-williams-his-daughter-an/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/ocarina-of-time-3ds-ad-starring-robin-williams-his-daughter-an/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/ocarina-of-time-3ds-ad-starring-robin-williams-his-daughter-an/#comments The flurry of trailers reminding you of your long-time love for The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time wasn't enough to get you excited for the 3DS remake? The latest TV ad, starring Robin Williams, his daughter (named Zelda, after the 1987 NES game), and his incredible grey mane should do it!

Continue reading Ocarina of Time 3DS ad starring Robin Williams, his daughter, and a tremendous beard

JoystiqOcarina of Time 3DS ad starring Robin Williams, his daughter, and a tremendous beard originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 17:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsadvertisementcommercialdsnintendonintendo-eadrobin-williamstelevision-commercialthe-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-timethe-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-time-3dzelda-williamsWed, 15 Jun 2011 17:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo mass announces Wii, DS game launch dates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/12/nintendo-mass-announces-wii-ds-game-launch-dates/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/12/nintendo-mass-announces-wii-ds-game-launch-dates/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/12/nintendo-mass-announces-wii-ds-game-launch-dates/#comments Clearly, Nintendo wants the back half of your year to have a strong financial plan. In two lengthy lists we spotted on the company's press site, everything from Kirby Wii to Pro Jumper! Chimaki's Hot Spring Tour Guilty Gear Tangent was given a more clear release date, with Kirby arriving some time in fall and the latter mystifying DSiWare shopgoers on June 23.

If one game starring a puffy pink monster just wasn't enough, how about one for your DS on September 19? 'Cause that's exactly when Kirby Mass Attack is launching. A whole mess of other release date/windows/seasons are categorized for your fiduciary planning needs, just beyond the break.

Continue reading Nintendo mass announces Wii, DS game launch dates

JoystiqNintendo mass announces Wii, DS game launch dates originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Jun 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-playactivisionactivision-publishingaksys-gamesatlusd3-publisherd3publisherdisneydisney-interactivedsdsiwareeaelectronic-artskirby-wiinintendonintendo-eadrelease-daterelease-datessegatelegamesthqubisoftwb-interactivewbiewiiwiiwareSun, 12 Jun 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword preview: Swinging for the skies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/11/the-legend-of-zelda-skyward-sword-preview-swinging-for-the-ski/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/11/the-legend-of-zelda-skyward-sword-preview-swinging-for-the-ski/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/11/the-legend-of-zelda-skyward-sword-preview-swinging-for-the-ski/#comments The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is the Zelda game I wanted on Wii five years ago, when the console launched. I don't mean that to say it's not good, because I sure had a great time playing it. I mean that to say that the "Wiimote as a sword" gameplay in Twilight Princess was gesture-based and awful, whereas Skyward Sword features excellent, near one-to-one control thanks to the required Wii MotionPlus.

I lift the Wiimote, and Link lifts his sword. I slash diagonally, and he slashes with me, imperfections and all. In fact, aside from some seriously rough graphical edges -- literally! jaggies ahoy! -- The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is exactly the right Zelda game for Nintendo's soon-to-be-succeeded Wii console and it's oft-misused controller.

Gallery: The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword (E3 2011)

Continue reading The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword preview: Swinging for the skies

JoystiqThe Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword preview: Swinging for the skies originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 11 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demon-lord-ghirahime3-2011Legend-of-Zelda-2010lord-ghirahimnintendonintendo-eadThe-Legend-of-Zelda-Skyward-SwordwiiSat, 11 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario Kart 3DS preview: By land, by sea, by air]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/mario-kart-3ds-preview-by-land-by-sea-by-air/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/mario-kart-3ds-preview-by-land-by-sea-by-air/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/10/mario-kart-3ds-preview-by-land-by-sea-by-air/#comments The highlight moment of my time with Mario Kart 3DS didn't involve blue sparks, bananas or any sort of weaponized carapace; though, naturally, all of those elements make a reappearance in the colorful racer. The key moment was the first time I hit a rather innocuous-looking ramp and, once airborne, produced a hang glider from my vehicle's undercarriage.

It wasn't a particularly surprising moment -- your car's new utilities were revealed in the trailer showed during Nintendo's E3 press conference -- but it was certainly an interesting one. The new aerial and underwater portions of each track aren't just fresh new obstacles for you to dodge using the series' tried-and-true system of drifting, boosting and item-firing. They represent challenges for you to navigate using entirely new methods of control.

Gallery: Mario Kart 3D (E3 2011)

Continue reading Mario Kart 3DS preview: By land, by sea, by air

JoystiqMario Kart 3DS preview: By land, by sea, by air originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Jun 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsmario-kartmario-kart-3dsmario-kart-7mario-kart-dsnintendonintendo-eadretro-studiosFri, 10 Jun 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest Ocarina of Time 3DS trailer plays the Song of Nostalgia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/latest-ocarina-of-time-3ds-trailer-plays-the-song-of-nostalgia/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/latest-ocarina-of-time-3ds-trailer-plays-the-song-of-nostalgia/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/25/latest-ocarina-of-time-3ds-trailer-plays-the-song-of-nostalgia/#comments We're not above admitting that the latest trailer for The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (ripped from the Japanese Nintendo Channel) got us a lot more excited than we thought we'd be getting for a nearly 15-year-old game. Head past the break to check it out ... and do try to contain yourself.

Continue reading Latest Ocarina of Time 3DS trailer plays the Song of Nostalgia

JoystiqLatest Ocarina of Time 3DS trailer plays the Song of Nostalgia originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 May 2011 15:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsgameplaynintendonintendo-channelnintendo-eadthe-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-timethe-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-time-3dtrailerWed, 25 May 2011 15:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Steel Diver out in Europe on May 6]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/steel-diver-out-in-europe-on-may-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/steel-diver-out-in-europe-on-may-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/steel-diver-out-in-europe-on-may-6/#comments European 3DS owners: Do you all harbor an unspoken, shared desire to live the life aquatic? We can't blame you -- as promised, things truly are better under the sea. Fortunately for you, Nintendo has announced that the naval combat simulator and North American 3DS launch title Steel Diver will make its way to Europe on May 6.

This information comes to us from the game's official European site, which doesn't include any information on why the game's taking over a month to travel overseas. Are submarines just that slow?

JoystiqSteel Diver out in Europe on May 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dseuropenintendonintendo-eadrelease-datesteel-diverTue, 05 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Reggie Fils-Aime on the competition and what it means to be a 'garage' developer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/reggie-fils-aime-on-the-competition-and-what-it-means-to-be-a-g/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/reggie-fils-aime-on-the-competition-and-what-it-means-to-be-a-g/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/reggie-fils-aime-on-the-competition-and-what-it-means-to-be-a-g/#comments A few minutes before Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime handed over the first 3DS sold in the US (as seen above), he spoke with me on how the new portable stands out from the competition, what Nintendo considers a "garage" developer versus an "indie," and what he's playing at launch (spoilers: it's not Nintendogs + Cats)

"At its heart, what Nintendo's trying to do is to bring more and more consumers into gaming. And to do it in a way that's fundamentally different than anyone else," Fils-Aime told me, explaining his company's continued adherence to the "Blue Ocean" business strategy. "With the Nintendo 3DS -- yes, it's a handheld, but 3D in the palm of your hand without glasses. A full range not only of games but of other elements -- photography, video. It's not what people expected. Which is, at its heart, what the Blue Ocean strategy and Innovator's Dilemma (which was the other book we used to demonstrate our strategy) are all about."

Because of this strategy, among other things, Fils-Aime remains unconcerned with the competition -- whether that competition be from Sony's upcoming NGP platform or from the smartphone crowd. "First off, it's a product that isn't out yet," he said of the NGP. "It's a product that hasn't had an announced price point, it hasn't had an announced availability. So, how that product impacts us is to be told in the future."

Gallery: Nintendo 3DS NYC Launch Event

Continue reading Reggie Fils-Aime on the competition and what it means to be a 'garage' developer

JoystiqReggie Fils-Aime on the competition and what it means to be a 'garage' developer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 11:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsblue-ocean-strategydsinnovators-dilemmanintendonintendo-eadreggie-fils-aimesteel-diverMon, 28 Mar 2011 11:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Galaxy 2 on sale for $35 through Dell]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/super-mario-galaxy-2-on-sale-for-35-through-dell/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/super-mario-galaxy-2-on-sale-for-35-through-dell/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/super-mario-galaxy-2-on-sale-for-35-through-dell/#commentsDell has marked down Super Mario Galaxy 2 to $35. For a high-profile game just released weeks ago, that's a pittance -- less than a pittance. If you gave Dell a pittance, you'd get a trifle back as change. It's a good deal, is what we're saying, for a game that is "the best Mario game ever."

In fact, at this point, the only valid excuse for not trying out Galaxy 2 is, well, motion sickness. If you're prone to that particular ailment, the game's less magical and more the worst experience of your life.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqSuper Mario Galaxy 2 on sale for $35 through Dell originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jun 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DellMarionintendoNintendo-EADSuper-Mario-GalaxySuper-Mario-Galaxy-2wiiThu, 10 Jun 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New DLC makes Animal Crossing avatars look even more punchable]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/new-dlc-makes-animal-crossing-avatars-look-even-more-punchable/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/new-dlc-makes-animal-crossing-avatars-look-even-more-punchable/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/25/new-dlc-makes-animal-crossing-avatars-look-even-more-punchable/#commentsTo celebrate the release of Punch-Out!!, Nintendo is offering a gift to European Animal Crossing: Let's Go to the City players on Little Mac's behalf. Is it enough to bring prodigal Crossers back into the Wii game? Well, only those who love headgear. We kind of think the protective boxing equipment looks slightly supervillain-esque, which is a bonus.

From now until June 5, Let's Go to the City players who have WiiConnect24 on can get a gift of green boxing headgear just for turning the game on and checking their mail. The headgear will be stuffed into a letter. The item has yet to appear on the North American DLC hub, but we're confident American gamers will be able to protect their avatars' squishy heads soon.

[Via N-Europe]

JoystiqNew DLC makes Animal Crossing avatars look even more punchable originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 May 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkAnimal-Crossing-MMOAnimal-Crossing-WiidlcNintendoNintendo-EADpunch-outWiiMon, 25 May 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: Poor Wii Music, Animal Crossing sales stamina to blame for downturn]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/analyst-poor-wii-music-animal-crossing-sales-stamina-to-blame-for-downt/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/analyst-poor-wii-music-animal-crossing-sales-stamina-to-blame-for-downt/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/analyst-poor-wii-music-animal-crossing-sales-stamina-to-blame-for-downt/#comments Wii sales have been the lowest they've ever been in Japan. Is the Japanese public losing interest? Screen Digest analyst Ed Barton told GameBizBlog that the Wii sales downturn is mostly due to the lack of staying power exhibited by Animal Crossing: City Folk and Wii Music.

Barton says that the continued success of Wii Fit and Mario Kart Wii only back up his claim. "These are older games that obviously have shown tremendous stamina, but Nintendo always needs to bring out new ways to drive console sales forward, and we just didn't see that with Wii Music and City Folk." Even though both titles sold decently enough (Animal Crossing was one of the region's top 10 selling games in 2008 and Wii Music debuted with 92,000 units sold in its first week), they lacked the necessary sales stamina of Wii Fit and Mario Kart Wii.

He says that there isn't much hope on the horizon either, despite the imminent release of Monster Hunter 3 on Wii. He warns that trying to transfer the user base from handheld to home console is risky and that the gamble may not pay off for Nintendo. Barton is of the mind that "it won't have the same level of success that it had on the PSP."

JoystiqAnalyst: Poor Wii Music, Animal Crossing sales stamina to blame for downturn originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkAnimal-Crossing-MMOAnimal-Crossing-Wiijapanmario-kart-wiimonster-huntermonster-hunter-gNintendoNintendo-EADWiiwii-musicThu, 16 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo opens NA Animal Crossing: City Folk DLC hub]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/nintendo-opens-na-animal-crossing-city-folk-dlc-hub/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/nintendo-opens-na-animal-crossing-city-folk-dlc-hub/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/22/nintendo-opens-na-animal-crossing-city-folk-dlc-hub/#comments North American Animal Crossing fans finally have a place to check for upcoming DLC updates to City Folk. Nintendo has opened an Animal Crossing: City Folk DLC hub site outlining downloadable content and game updates specifically for the NTSC region. A similar site is already available to Japanese gamers.

Currently, the hub lists a special "shamrock hat" (available until March 24) delivered to town via a letter with the attached item with special Spring content coming soon. Let's hope that the update also means that North American City Folk will get as much cool content as their Japanese counterparts.

[via GoNintendo]

JoystiqNintendo opens NA Animal Crossing: City Folk DLC hub originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkAnimal-Crossing-MMOAnimal-Crossing-Wiidlcdownloadable-contentNintendoNintendo-EADSun, 22 Mar 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Missouri Police say adults shouldn't play Animal Crossing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/missouri-police-say-adults-shouldnt-play-animal-crossing/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/missouri-police-say-adults-shouldnt-play-animal-crossing/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/missouri-police-say-adults-shouldnt-play-animal-crossing/#comments Son, turn the game box off and come over here. Now, since you turned 18 your mom and I have been meaning to talk with you about your little habit. No, not the smoking or the drinking. Really, we're fine with all of that. No, what we're concerned about is the time you spend exchanging friend codes with all those people in Animal Crossing: City Folk. We've been talking to Detective Andy Anderson of the Mid-Missouri Internet Crimes Task Force, who says that he "cannot come up with any legitimate reason that an adult would be playing that particular game."

Now, heaven knows what you've been putting in all of those letters and gift boxes, but Anderson told ABC affiliate KMIZ that you, and others like you, are likely playing Animal Crossing and similar games "for the wrong reasons." Sure it's addicting, but it's also evil, so please, son, do us all a favor and put the controller down and go play something more your age. But before you go, tell your mom to put down that galdarned Peggle and bring me a turkey pot pie. I'm glad we had this little chat.

[Via Game Politics]

JoystiqMissouri Police say adults shouldn't play Animal Crossing originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkAnimal-Crossing-MMOAnimal-Crossing-WiimissouriNintendoNintendo-EADpredatorsensationalismWiiWed, 18 Mar 2009 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Animal Crossing City Folk for thrifty folk]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/13/animal-crossing-city-folk-for-thrifty-folk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/13/animal-crossing-city-folk-for-thrifty-folk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/13/animal-crossing-city-folk-for-thrifty-folk/#commentsIt's not too often that a major first-party Nintendo release gets a price drop. That makes today's Amazon deal of the day, Animal Crossing: City Folk, somewhat of a novelty. If you thought $50 was too high for what seemed like a minimal content upgrade over Wild World, how does $30 sound? We're guessing it's going to sound pretty good to a lot of people -- enough people that Amazon will run out of stock before the end of the day.

As usual, the person who benefits most from this deal is Tom Nook. Sometime within the 5-8 day Free Super Saver Shipping period, Tom Nook is going to find himself with a veritable army of new indentured residents.

JoystiqAnimal Crossing City Folk for thrifty folk originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Mar 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonanimal-crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkAnimal-Crossing-MMOAnimal-Crossing-Wiideal-of-the-dayNintendoNintendo-EADsaleFri, 13 Mar 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lock up your children: Mr. Resetti may 'disturb' them]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/lock-up-your-children-mr-resetti-may-disturb-them/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/lock-up-your-children-mr-resetti-may-disturb-them/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/lock-up-your-children-mr-resetti-may-disturb-them/#commentsFiled under:

FACT: Animal Crossing games would be a lot less awesome without Mr. Resetti. The maddened mole teaches his lessons through tough love, subjecting players to lengthy, unavoidable rants every time they "forget" to save their game. Now, we're willing to admit that our parents contributed in some small way* to our upbringing, but would we be the same, upstanding citizens we are now without the firm intervention of Resetti? No.

That's why we were disappointed to hear that the mole now carries his own warning, in case he makes kids burst into floods of tears or something.

Madness, we know, but it's all there in black and white, in your Animal Crossing: City Folk manual: "Mr. Resetti's purpose is to teach players the importance of saving. However, parents should be aware that his personality and tone of voice, while intentionally humourous, are authoritative and may be disturbing to young children." Wow, protective, much?

* Kidding, obviously, if you're reading, Dad.

JoystiqLock up your children: Mr. Resetti may 'disturb' them originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkAnimal-Crossing-MMOAnimal-Crossing-Wiichildrencontroversymr-resettiNintendoNintendo-EADresettiWed, 10 Dec 2008 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[New features for Pikmin, Mario Tennis Wii-makes revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/new-features-for-pikmin-mario-tennis-wii-makes-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/new-features-for-pikmin-mario-tennis-wii-makes-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/new-features-for-pikmin-mario-tennis-wii-makes-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , ,

When Nintendo announced that they'd be porting GameCube titles to the Wii with updated features, many responded with trepidation, fearing Nintendo was attempting to fix things that were far from broken. Japan will see if these fears are merited as the first of these Wii-makes hits store shelves tomorrow in the form of Donkey Kong Jungle Beat, but Famitsu recently dropped some details about changes in two titles that might be more successful in tickling your fancy -- Pikmin and Mario Power Tennis.

Famitsu reveals that Nintendo's floral take on Lemmings (which is dropping in Japan on Christmas) will feature a new save system that stores day-to-day records of your play time. Whenever you boot up Pikmin, you can continue your game by jumping back into any day of your choosing. Unsurprisingly, a new feature revealed for Mario Power Tennis is a renovated, Wii Sports Tennis-esque control scheme -- though the new title will be compatible with the Nunchuck, likely giving you control over your character's movements on the court. Japanese racqueteers can pick up Mario Power Tennis on January 15.

JoystiqNew features for Pikmin, Mario Tennis Wii-makes revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-power-tennisnintendoNintendo-EADpikminPikmin-2play-for-wiiRTSWiiWed, 10 Dec 2008 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Animal Crossing: Wild, Racist FILTH [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/animal-crossing-wild-racist-filth/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/animal-crossing-wild-racist-filth/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/animal-crossing-wild-racist-filth/#commentsFiled under:

Update: Nintendo has issued an official statement. Head past the break to read it.

Nintendo is, famously, very politically correct where Animal Crossing is concerned. In the games, any festivals or holidays with even a hint of religious overtones are quietly repackaged: Easter becomes "Bunny Day," Christmas is "The Night that Jingle Comes to Town," and so forth. This keenness to be inclusive and totally inoffensive means Animal Crossing: Wild World was the last game we expected to spew racist terminology.

Because that's what it's done ... albeit accidentally. If you've played an Animal Crossing title before, you'll know that you can teach your fellow villagers words, which they'll then use to greet you. Naturally, this is open to player abuse, as you can enter cuss words and other rude terms -- something that not even Nintendo is above doing.

MTV Multiplayer's Stephen Totilo recently received a copy of Wild World from Nintendo, so he could test the Wii/DS transfer feature in City Folk. The copy had been played before, because it was full of rare, unlocked items, but those weren't the only secrets the cart held. As he started chatting to his village's animals, Totilo suddenly found himself being racially abused by a sheep called Baabara. "How are you, N---a?" is just one greeting he received from the woolly fascist. Whoops!

Maybe triple-check the next batch of press-only carts you send out, Nintendo? Now if you'll excuse us, we're off to phone the Daily Mail.

Gallery: Animal Crossing: Wild World

Continue reading Animal Crossing: Wild, Racist FILTH [update]

JoystiqAnimal Crossing: Wild, Racist FILTH [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossingAnimal-Crossing-DSanimal-crossing-wild-worldcontroversyNintendoNintendo-EADracismWed, 03 Dec 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Press-only Animal Crossing features N-word [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/press-only-animal-crossing-promo-features-n-word/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/press-only-animal-crossing-promo-features-n-word/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/03/press-only-animal-crossing-promo-features-n-word/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A pre-played version of 2005's Animal Crossing: Wild World for DS, sent out to media outlets to encourage connectivity with the recent Animal Crossing release for Wii, contains at least one shocking addition, reports MTV Multiplayer. Importing the saved data from the DS cartridge sent by Nintendo into Animal Crossing: City Folk introduces a host of changes into the game, including one, suddenly no longer E-rated character, Baabara, who now greets players with: "How are you, Ñ---á?" [edited; original creator added diacritics]

To clarify, this generally offensive slang term (preceded by another potentially offensive phrase above it) is not included in the retail release of the game. Rather, whomever Nintendo employed to play the version of Wild World sent to press with all of the game's items unlocked, purposely "trained" the Baabara character to use the term. Further, introducing this kind of offensive content into a new copy of the game, from a stranger via Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, is nearly impossible. To import content from another game cartridge over the internet requires two users to first exchange their unique 16-digit codes before they are able to share data. In other words, your kids are safe -- unless they or their "friends" are the creators of such content.

What MTV Multiplayer and other outlets have discovered is an isolated matter. Still, since the media serves as a filter through which you receive your news about Nintendo products, Nintendo clearly needs to work harder to prevent the kind of incident highlighted here from happening again. Also, an apology would be nice ...

Update: And here's that apology ... "We regret that an offensive phrase was included without our knowledge via a wireless function that allows user-generated catchphrases to spread virally from one game to the next," said Nintendo in a statement sent to us. The company is asking that the 14 affected copies it mailed out to the media be returned. The full statement is posted after the break.

[Note: As this post contains sensitive material, this is just a friendly reminder to keep the comments clean -- or face the perma-banhammer. Thank you.]

Continue reading Press-only Animal Crossing features N-word [update]

JoystiqPress-only Animal Crossing features N-word [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkAnimal-Crossing-MMOAnimal-Crossing-Wiianimal-crossing-wild-worldDSjs-twitterNintendoNintendo-EADWiiWed, 03 Dec 2008 17:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview -- Animal Crossing: City Folk (Wii)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/metareview-animal-crossing-city-folk-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/metareview-animal-crossing-city-folk-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/18/metareview-animal-crossing-city-folk-wii/#commentsFiled under: ,

Paradoxically, it's the cause of the absolute saddest thing on the internet, but Animal Crossing has also been a source of joy for millions. Judging from the tepid reviews, Animal Crossing: City Folk's biggest problem appears to be not that it's more of the same joy-inducing escapism, but rather that it is the same joy-inducing escapism.
  • 1UP (C): "Somehow, despite two previous time-sucking outings into the open world of Animal Crossing -- each fully preparing me for what to expect in a sequel -- City Folk still rouses some excitement at the prospect of collecting more rare furniture, fossils, and that one elusive bug or fish. But all of this quickly subsides upon your introduction to Tom Nook, everyone's favorite predatory lender. That's when the realization quickly sets in: This is all just the same old routine with extra goodies that do little to change things in any meaningful way."
  • GameDaily (70/100): "Sadly, local co-op isn't an option, the graphics look last generation and we had little fun using the WiiSpeak microphone. If you're a fan of the series, you'll want to move into this City right away. Otherwise, pay a casual visit before you settle down."
  • Games Master UK (80/100): "It's still a great game but fans of the DS version are going to feel short-changed by the lack of imagination in this Wii retread. For everyone who missed out last time, or if you're keen to start such an epic afresh on the TV, this may well be the family game that sends Wii Sports into permanent retirement."

JoystiqMetareview -- Animal Crossing: City Folk (Wii) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkAnimal-Crossing-MMOAnimal-Crossing-WiinintendoNintendo-EADWiiTue, 18 Nov 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Animal Crossing: City Events]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/animal-crossing-city-events/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/animal-crossing-city-events/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/animal-crossing-city-events/#commentsFiled under:


Special events form a crucial part of any Animal Crossing game, giving players dates to look forward to and a chance to gloat about owning the full set of Pascal's ship-themed furniture. Like I just did there.

Last month, Nintendo Power revealed Pavé (a peacock who runs the Samba Carnival-esque Festivale), Labelle (the third Able sister), Zipper (a bunny who appears on Easter -- SORRY -- "Bunny Day"), and Phineas (a beaver who turns up randomly to give out pinwheels and balloons), and now Famitsu has shed light on a few old and returning events and their respective characters.

The fishing (October to April) and bug-hunting tournaments (June to September) are back, as is the aforementioned hippy otter Pascal and (obviously) Joan the turnip-selling warthog. There's also a comeback for one of the rarer characters in the first Animal Crossing: Wisp the Ghost, a spook that occasionally appeared at night who could be caught in your net, and forced to do your weeding and paint your roof!



KK says: buy Animal Crossing: City Folk to visit the city, reach out to friends, and make Iwata cry!

JoystiqAnimal Crossing: City Events originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkAnimal-Crossing-MMOAnimal-Crossing-WiiNintendoNintendo-EADsimWed, 12 Nov 2008 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[City Folk crossing into central mainstream with new ad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/city-folk-crossing-into-central-mainstream-with-new-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/city-folk-crossing-into-central-mainstream-with-new-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/city-folk-crossing-into-central-mainstream-with-new-ad/#commentsFiled under:

It's easy to hate on the new Animal Crossing: City Folk ad. Gut reaction is that it's not for us, for the real gamers, so clearly, Animal Crossing itself isn't, either. But that isn't the case; if you liked Animal Crossing at all before, you'll probably like it now. So, no, this commercial isn't for us. It's for everyone else, everyone who thinks Animal Crossing might not be for them. And when taken that way, it seems pretty effective to us.

JoystiqCity Folk crossing into central mainstream with new ad originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adAnimal-Crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkAnimal-Crossing-MMOAnimal-Crossing-WiicommercialNintendoNintendo-EADwiispeakTue, 11 Nov 2008 10:00:00 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.

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Animal Crossing: City Folk is sticking to the formula laid down by Wild World fairly rigidly, but it's not all a rehash. Some new outlets and characters can be found in the city section next to your village, two of which have been recently showcased in daily videos at City Folk's official Japanese site.

The first of these stars Dr. Shrunk, whose dubious comedic talents have finally landed him the big one: a gig at City Folk's Theater. Here, you'll be able to watch the good doctor take to the stage, 'enjoy' his stand-up routine, and hopefully learn a brand new emotion in the process -- as you do. The second video (after the break) covers the Auction House (where you'll be able to offer items for those on your Wii's friend list to bid on), which appears to be manned by a Gyroid. Perhaps they ran out of ideas for new talking animals.

Continue reading Animal Crossing: Emotional, Spendthrifty Folk

JoystiqAnimal Crossing: Emotional, Spendthrifty Folk originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 12:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We spent our limited Animal Crossing: City Folk time at E3 messing with the new Mii masks, reducing an effigy of a normally jovial executive to a blubbering mess. Should you want to follow our example, it's quite easy to do! And just a little bit off-putting, as this video of the new salon shows.

You just go to the salon, choose the Mii you'd like the mask to resemble, and then ... a giant machine, buzzing and arcing with electricity, clamps down over you and reshapes your head! If you think about it like that, it's a bit weird that the Mii mask blinks and displays emotions. But, then again, you have to earn each emotional display by watching stand-up comedy, so maybe we're already in Weird City.

JoystiqAnimal Crossing: City Folk in Creepy Mii Masks originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Oct 2008 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkAnimal-Crossing-MMOAnimal-Crossing-WiicommunicationmiiNintendoNintendo-EADTue, 07 Oct 2008 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq impressions: Animal Crossing: City Folk]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/joystiq-impressions-animal-crossing-city-folk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/joystiq-impressions-animal-crossing-city-folk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/joystiq-impressions-animal-crossing-city-folk/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Animal Crossing is a one-hit-wonder. You might like it and play it forever, hate it and avoid it completely, or think it was catchy and then just get tired of the tune. Animal Crossing: City Folk does little to change our perception. This is Animal Crossing, again; go fishing, pull weeds, repeat. Some love it, some hate it, and some just want something new.

From what we saw at the Nintendo Media Summit, the city is just another place to go. Instead of Tom Nook's shop in your own town, you can buy from an upscale store. Instead of waiting for the fortune teller to visit, you can see her in the city. A few minor additions include a city-based auction house and theater where you see shows.

The rest of the updates seem equally subtle. You can play with your Mii face. Up to four players can meet in one of their towns or the city. Gamer can talk over the WiiSpeak microphone (sold separately). You can type messages by plugging in any USB HID keyboard. Otherwise, it's Animal Crossing again.

Gallery: Animal Crossing: City Folk (10/6/08)

Continue reading Joystiq impressions: Animal Crossing: City Folk

JoystiqJoystiq impressions: Animal Crossing: City Folk originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animal-crossinganimal-crossing-city-folkAnimal-Crossing-MMOAnimal-Crossing-Wiijoystiqfeaturesnfms08-hands-onnintendoNintendo-EADnintendo-fall-media-summit-08nintendo-fms-08WiiMon, 06 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pikmin remake launches Dec. 25 in Japan, Nintendo unveils more 'Play for Wii' titles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/pikmin-remake-launches-dec-25-in-japan-nintendo-unveils-more-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/pikmin-remake-launches-dec-25-in-japan-nintendo-unveils-more-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/pikmin-remake-launches-dec-25-in-japan-nintendo-unveils-more-p/#commentsFiled under: ,

This Christmas, Japanese gamers will be able to waggle flowery lemmings to their hearts content. Nintendo has announced (via IGN) that the Pikmin remake for Wii will launch December 25 in Japan for 3,800 yen (approx. US $36). The game is part of Nintendo's new "Play for Wii" series, which will be a collection of GameCube titles revised with Wii controls.

Before Pikmin (and not counting previous Wii remake Resident Evil 4), Nintendo will re-release Donkey Kong Jungle Beat on December 11. Upcoming titles in the collection include Chibi Robo, Pikmin 2, Mario Tennis GC, Metroid Prime, and Metroid Prime 2 Dark Echoes. No word on any release dates outside of Japan, but we'll be live at Nintendo of America's press conference in San Francisco later today.

JoystiqPikmin remake launches Dec. 25 in Japan, Nintendo unveils more 'Play for Wii' titles originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 09:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nintendo has announced that it will be releasing "Wii de Asobu" (Play on Wii) Selections, GameCube titles remade for the Wii. Not including last year's Resident Evil 4 remake, President Satoru Iwata revealed at today's Japanese press conference that Pikmin will be the first title to receive a Wii makeover. We're really hoping this isn't the Pikmin title Miyamoto revealed at E3.

[Via NWF]

JoystiqPikmin to be remade on Wii, first of 'GameCube masterpiece' series originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 02:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsGameCubeNintendoNintendo-EADpikminPikmin-2play-on-wiiRTSWiiThu, 02 Oct 2008 02:10:00 EST