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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscave-storydaisuke-amayaeesrbguxtnicalisnintendonintendo-3dspcpixelratedThu, 22 Nov 2012 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story creator releases adorable 'Azarashi' on App Store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/07/cave-story-creator-releases-adorable-azarashi-on-app-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/07/cave-story-creator-releases-adorable-azarashi-on-app-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/07/cave-story-creator-releases-adorable-azarashi-on-app-store/#comments Studio Pixel, the one-man development studio behind the original Cave Story, has created a new game for iOS called Azarashi, available on iTunes now for 99 cents. It's an exceedingly simple game: you tap to catch three seal keychains as they fall, and your reaction times are added up to form a score.

What distinguishes Azarashi from other iOS microgames is Pixel's fantastic artwork, which delights with cute seal keychains and happy cat trophies. Just don't ever tap to catch a keychain too early. It abruptly becomes less cute.

JoystiqCave Story creator releases adorable 'Azarashi' on App Store originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>azarashiiosipadiphonemobilepixelstudio-pixelSat, 07 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Deja Review: Cave Story 3D]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/deja-review-cave-story-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/deja-review-cave-story-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/07/deja-review-cave-story-3d/#comments Not even a semi-controversial visual makeover can keep me from loving Cave Story. I admit to being a bit worried upon seeing the first screens of the new 3DS remake, Cave Story 3D, developed by Nicalis in conjunction with original creator Daisuke "Pixel" Amaya. And I admit now that the new polygonal graphics lack the extreme charm of the original pixels.

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

Continue reading Deja Review: Cave Story 3D

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscave-storycave-story-3ddeja-reviewdsnicalisnintendonis-americapixelMon, 07 Nov 2011 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA['Cave Story+' now available on Mac App Store, with new content]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/cave-story-now-available-on-mac-app-store-with-new-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/cave-story-now-available-on-mac-app-store-with-new-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/08/cave-story-now-available-on-mac-app-store-with-new-content/#comments If you want to try out the updated version of Cave Story that hit WiiWare in 2009 -- but, like, on a computer -- you can do so right this second. Developer Nicalis has released Cave Story+ on the Mac App Store.

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

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

Gallery: Cave Story + (PC, Mac)

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cave-Storymacmac-app-storenicalispcpixelrelease-dateThu, 08 Sep 2011 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Cave Story's salaryman designer, Daisuke 'Pixel' Amaya]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/interview-cave-storys-salaryman-designer-daisuke-pixel-amay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/interview-cave-storys-salaryman-designer-daisuke-pixel-amay/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/11/interview-cave-storys-salaryman-designer-daisuke-pixel-amay/#comments Daisuke "Pixel" Amaya is one of just a few Japanese names in the indie gaming pantheon, after developing 2004's Cave Story entirely on his own as a labor of love. This year, he came to the Game Developers Conference to present a long-overdue postmortem about the development of Cave Story and to promote the upcoming 3DS remake, which he's working on with developer Nicalis and publisher NIS America. During this presentation, Amaya showed never-before-seen footage of a beta version of Cave Story, including locations, characters, and enemies that didn't make it into the beloved indie game.

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscave-storycave-story-3ddaisuke-amayagdc-2011nicalispixelFri, 11 Mar 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story before it was Cave Story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/cave-story-before-it-was-cave-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/cave-story-before-it-was-cave-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/cave-story-before-it-was-cave-story/#comments During his GDC talk "The Story of Cave Story," developer Daisuke "Pixel" Amaya revealed that two years into the development of his 2004 indie hit, he scrapped his game design and started completely over. He then proceeded to show a video of this beta.

This version is very different from what we eventually ended up playing. It featured not only Quote, but Sue and a frog prince as playable characters, each of whom takes over at a certain part of the story. The famous rectangular boss Balrog is present, but he's named "Puu" and has a much less expressive face. He's occasionally seen wearing a scuba mask or other facewear. He's joined by another soap-bar guy named Oscar, who can ... transform into an angry cloud that shoots lightning. And, of course, the level layouts were all different. Weapons aren't upgradable, and are only acquired by purchasing them from shops. The music, however, sounded like what made it into the final game.

We hastily snapped some pictures of the video in motion, so you can get a glimpse of this unreleased version in our gallery below. The quality isn't great, because, well, it was a video playing on a projector.

Gallery: Cave Story (Beta version)

JoystiqCave Story before it was Cave Story originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cave-Storydaisuke-amayadsgdcgdc-2011nintendopcpixelwiiFri, 04 Mar 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Two hundred video game characters made into Mega Man sprites]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/10/two-hundred-video-game-characters-made-into-mega-man-sprites/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/10/two-hundred-video-game-characters-made-into-mega-man-sprites/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/10/two-hundred-video-game-characters-made-into-mega-man-sprites/#comments Hey, here's that new desktop background you desperately wanted, even if you didn't know it yet. It's a gargantuan spread featuring over 200 characters from video game franchises, new and old, redrawn in the style of Mega Man. The image comes from pixel artist Chris Bringhurst, who released a compilation half this size last month. If he wanted to keep doubling it every few weeks or so, we would not hold it against him.

Click here to see the full version of the image -- but be prepared to bid farewell to a considerable portion of your day.

[Thanks, David]

JoystiqTwo hundred video game characters made into Mega Man sprites originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Nov 2010 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artcapcommega-manMega-Man-10pixelWed, 10 Nov 2010 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Nicalis confirms Cave Story DSiWare, European release for WiiWare version]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/nicalis-confirms-cave-story-dsiware-european-release-for-wiiwar/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/nicalis-confirms-cave-story-dsiware-european-release-for-wiiwar/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/nicalis-confirms-cave-story-dsiware-european-release-for-wiiwar/#commentsFiled under: , ,

That small piece of artwork in the Nintendo Power table of contents today didn't represent a new look for Cave Story -- it was actually art by Mikael "Orioto" Aguirre, commissioned by Nicalis in honor of the announcement of the DSiWare version of the game. In an email statement, Nicalis confirmed said DSiWare version, saying that "the game is actually DONE, we're currently in final testing internally."

In addition, the long-awaited European version of the WiiWare game (even longer-awaited than the North American version!) is "still scheduled to be released."

Update: Nintendo Life posted three screens, revealing the "classic" Cave Story look, with an added map on the DS's bottom screen.

JoystiqNicalis confirms Cave Story DSiWare, European release for WiiWare version originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cave-StorydsdsiwarenicalisnintendopixelwiiWed, 22 Sep 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Arkedo Series game on XBLM: Pixel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/new-arkedo-series-game-on-xblm-pixel/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/new-arkedo-series-game-on-xblm-pixel/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/28/new-arkedo-series-game-on-xblm-pixel/#comments If you spend much time checking out Indie Games on Xbox Live, there's a considerable chance you've stumbled upon the Arkedo Series of games. Fans will be happy to hear that Arkedo and Pastagames have released a third in the series. Entitled Pixel, the game features slick dot matrix graphics and simple platforming action. The game also has a nifty feature that allows players to zoom in on certain parts of the background and explore them at the pixel level. Check the game out in the video above and enjoy some screens in the gallery below.

You can snag the trial version through the link below and, should you enjoy it, the full game is 240 ($3) or, as Arkedo puts it, "approximately the asking price for a nice latte."

Shortcut: Add Arkedo Series - 03 Pixel to your 360 download queue [Via Xbox.com]

Gallery: Arkedo Series 003: Pixel!

JoystiqNew Arkedo Series game on XBLM: Pixel originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Dec 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkedoarkedo-series-03-pixelarkedo-studioindie-gamespastagamespixelxblmxbox-liveMon, 28 Dec 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story coming 'after the new year' with new difficulty modes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/24/cave-story-coming-after-the-new-year-with-new-difficulty-modes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/24/cave-story-coming-after-the-new-year-with-new-difficulty-modes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/24/cave-story-coming-after-the-new-year-with-new-difficulty-modes/#commentsCave Story, first announced in October 2008 for release that same year, has missed 2009. In a blog post, Nicalis confirmed that the remake of the brilliant freeware title won't be available until "after the new year." The last we'd heard, it had been submitted to Nintendo for approval in November, so it's likely that the holdup is with the platform holder.

In more positive news, Nicalis also revealed what the deal was with the alternate-color Quote sprite that it's been teasing on its Twitter account: it's the outfit the player character wears in the new Easy mode, one of three difficulty modes. Hard Mode, which gives you only 3HP and no missiles, features Quote in blue with blonde hair. The developer also has "a LOT" of DLC planned, "AND we're taking possible requests." Finally, as a little stocking stuffer (or ear stuffer), Nicalis posted three remixed Cave Story tunes. Huzzah for the holidays!

JoystiqCave Story coming 'after the new year' with new difficulty modes originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Dec 2009 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storydelaynicalisNintendopixelWiiwiiwareThu, 24 Dec 2009 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Another Cave Story screen as the game nears completion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/15/another-cave-story-screen-as-the-game-nears-completion/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/15/another-cave-story-screen-as-the-game-nears-completion/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/15/another-cave-story-screen-as-the-game-nears-completion/#comments Nicalis has posted its weekly Cave Story screenshot, and we have, as usual, been staring at it for a good few minutes, just taking in the lovely backgrounds and the detailed sprites. More details are starting to be filled in as the game approaches release: as Nicalis's Tiffany points out, the weapon icons have been updated with new graphics, and the UI text is back in its proper pixelated form, rather than the "smoothed" look it previously had.

Tiffany also mentions that "the MIDI player is ready to go and the new music is on the way." Finally, the weak link in the WiiWare Cave Story experience, the music, is getting fixed! It sounds like the game is getting very close to release, and we could not be more thrilled.

JoystiqAnother Cave Story screen as the game nears completion originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 15 Feb 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storynicalispixelwiiwareSun, 15 Feb 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Cave Story screenshot would be lovable even without the puppy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/new-cave-story-screenshot-would-be-lovable-even-without-the-pupp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/new-cave-story-screenshot-would-be-lovable-even-without-the-pupp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/28/new-cave-story-screenshot-would-be-lovable-even-without-the-pupp/#commentsFiled under:


Ah, now this is what the new site design is all about: the ability to post jaw-droppingly gorgeous Cave Story screens at near-full resolution. (To see it in fully full resolution, click on the image!)

This latest screen of the WiiWare version of Pixel's delightful game, posted on developer Nicalis's site, features new sprites for two of the game's creatures: a puppy, and ... that skeleton thing, which we bet has a name. (According to the leading Cave Story fansite, it is called a "Skeleton".)

In the accompanying post, programmer "Tiffany" says the game is "close to done", hints at some secret Wii stuff (the DLC, or possibly even more), and says something that should be the cause of relief among the entire Cave Story fan community: "One of the more obvious bugs from the initial port was a notable sound bug - you know "bleeding ears" and all-which I am currently working on. We promise to get it right!" They're going to get it right.

JoystiqNew Cave Story screenshot would be lovable even without the puppy originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storynicalispixelplatformerremakeWed, 28 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brace yourself for a new Cave Story sprite]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/brace-yourself-for-a-new-cave-story-sprite/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/brace-yourself-for-a-new-cave-story-sprite/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/brace-yourself-for-a-new-cave-story-sprite/#commentsFiled under: ,


Following the post about DLC, Nicalis has now officially come back to blogging, and by "blogging" we mean "teasing us regularly about Cave Story". And, as they return to their schedule, we now find ourselves back in our weekly ritual of thinking dreamily about Cave Story in response to the posting of a new sprite from the game.

This time, it's Curly Brace, who protects a group of Mimiga children and eventually joins protagonist Quote on his journey. The new sprite looks pretty great to us, but one Nicalis blog commenter classifies her new appearance as "fattie". We guess ... that one shaded square in her midsection is now white? And now she's totally fat?

JoystiqBrace yourself for a new Cave Story sprite originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 18:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storycurly-bracenicalispixelplatformerremakeFri, 09 Jan 2009 18:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Life is worth living: Nicalis confirms new Cave Story DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/life-is-worth-living-nicalis-confirms-new-cave-story-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/life-is-worth-living-nicalis-confirms-new-cave-story-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/life-is-worth-living-nicalis-confirms-new-cave-story-dlc/#commentsFiled under: ,


After a lengthy hiatus, Cave Story WiiWare developer Nicalis has posted a new entry on their development blog, confirming two delightful pieces of information:
  1. The lack of blog updates does not signify cancellation of the game, and
  2. DLC!
Blogger "ara" said that the developer "... received enough e-mails demanding it that we're doing our best to include some new surprises in the WiiWare release." Nothing specific about the new content was divulged, but it's new Cave Story and we're having a hard time imagining how this news could get any better. We can only hope that this is new Pixel-developed, or at least Pixel-approved, material.


JoystiqLife is worth living: Nicalis confirms new Cave Story DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storydlcnicalispixelplatformerremakeThu, 08 Jan 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story videos are almost great]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/cave-story-videos-are-almost-great/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/cave-story-videos-are-almost-great/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/cave-story-videos-are-almost-great/#commentsFiled under: ,

These videos of the Cave Story remake (best viewed at IGN in full resolution) clearly depict a work in progress. They'd better! The new graphics look very promising indeed, and the game looks appropriately smooth in motion. But the music is still janky (though not as janky) and every sound effect is rendered as loud white noise.

It's really distressing to have the usually delightful Grasstown stage marred by weird sound effects -- not to mention the occasional escape of text from the confines of the text box. We're giving Nicalis the benefit of the doubt, mostly because we want to make sure to continue sending good, happy thoughts their way. Cave Story requires your happy thoughts to live!


JoystiqCave Story videos are almost great originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storynicalispixelplatformerremakeThu, 27 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story's robot less blocky, but still blocky]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/cave-storys-robot-less-blocky-but-still-blocky/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/cave-storys-robot-less-blocky-but-still-blocky/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/cave-storys-robot-less-blocky-but-still-blocky/#commentsFiled under: ,


How do you draw a more detailed sprite of a guy who's basically a bunch of rectangles anyway? That's the dilemma Pixel faced with this Cave Story character, Malco the friendly, explosives-loving robot. Pixel has done an outstanding job of adding definition -- and a mandible -- to a character who seemed impossible to detail. With that new jaw of his, he could destroy some gum base.

According to the blog entry accompanying this sprite, IGN will have new direct-feed videos of Cave Story tomorrow. Presumably, this will be our first look at the new artwork in motion!

JoystiqCave Story's robot less blocky, but still blocky originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storynicalispixelplatformerremakeTue, 25 Nov 2008 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[One very worthwhile Cave Story screen]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/one-very-worthwhile-cave-story-screen/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/one-very-worthwhile-cave-story-screen/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/19/one-very-worthwhile-cave-story-screen/#commentsFiled under: ,


Cave Story remake developer Nicalis has been spreading exclusive content around the web, turning our daily news crawling into a delightful Cave Story scavenger hunt. The latest release is this screenshot found on WiiWare World, featuring the updated, redrawn graphics.

We have feared that the increased definition in the sprites and environments would change too much of Cave Story's unique look, but Pixel knows what he is doing. The new look is more detailed, but still retro -- it just looks like somebody sharpened the focus.

If you haven't tried Cave Story yet, don't worry about waiting for the WiiWare version. Play the freeware game now. You'll be ready to start again when the Wii game comes out.


We're not going to stop talking about Cave Story any time soon. You may as well read up on it and join the discussion!

JoystiqOne very worthwhile Cave Story screen originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storynicalispixelplatformremakeWed, 19 Nov 2008 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story on WiiWare adds save slots for multiple plays]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/cave-story-on-wiiware-adds-save-slots-for-multiple-plays/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/cave-story-on-wiiware-adds-save-slots-for-multiple-plays/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/cave-story-on-wiiware-adds-save-slots-for-multiple-plays/#commentsFiled under: ,


Tyrone Rodriguez has updated Nicalis's blog with the image above from Cave Story. As you can imagine, it informs us all that the game will have up to three save slots, allowing for multiple people to enjoy what is sure to be one of the most fun WiiWare titles yet. Just one of the many updates being done to the WiiWare version of the game, we're glad this is the case because a game like this deserves to be shared.

Oh, and if you haven't already, be sure to read our interview with Tyron Rodriguez right here.


We're not going to stop talking about Cave Story any time soon. You may as well read up on it and join the discussion!

JoystiqCave Story on WiiWare adds save slots for multiple plays originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storynicalispixelplatformremaketyrione-rodriguezWed, 22 Oct 2008 14:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fanboy Interview: Nicalis' Tyrone Rodriguez talks Cave Story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/wii-fanboy-interview-nicalis-tyrone-rodriguez-talks-cave-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/wii-fanboy-interview-nicalis-tyrone-rodriguez-talks-cave-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/14/wii-fanboy-interview-nicalis-tyrone-rodriguez-talks-cave-story/#commentsFiled under: ,


Tyrone Rodriguez is the man largely responsible for making the upcoming WiiWare version of Cave Story happen. He got in contact with Daisuke Amaya, aka Pixel, seeking to collaborate on a commercial port of the freeware hit. They eventually decided on WiiWare, and now Rodriguez's company Nicalis is working with Pixel to port and update the classic for a new console.

When the official announcement came out, we sent a few questions about the development of the new version, the changes being made, and the future of Nicalis and Cave Story. We've posted the interview after the break. If you'd like to see the current state of WiiWare Cave Story, you can see two gameplay videos, as well as another interview done by GameTrailers, here.

Continue reading Wii Fanboy Interview: Nicalis' Tyrone Rodriguez talks Cave Story

JoystiqWii Fanboy Interview: Nicalis' Tyrone Rodriguez talks Cave Story originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 09:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storynicalispixelplatformremakeTue, 14 Oct 2008 09:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 5: Biggest Tear-Jerkers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/top-5-biggest-tear-jerkers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/top-5-biggest-tear-jerkers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/top-5-biggest-tear-jerkers/#commentsFiled under:


The video games as art debate is a ridiculous sham. It seems that many who fall on the "games are not art" side have rarely or never played a video game, often a product of an older generation. If your only experience with video games is hearing news reports about 7 year olds beating up hookers in Grand Theft Auto, then of course your view will be ignorant and bigoted. But that doesn't give critical validity to start creating arguments against that with which you are very unfamiliar. I know surprisingly little about Somalian Islamic Literature, which is why I don't make inflammatory statements about it. To suggest that any video game is incapable of being art is remarkably narrow-minded.

Television and movies choreograph all characters' actions and responses, leaving the viewer as a mere canvas on which the creator's views and reactions are imprinted. Though it's often that a viewer connects with a character and draws individual interpretations, their failures and triumphs can always be placed on the choices of the individual. With gaming, however, the connection can be just as deep, and to some, deeper. When our character fails, we grumble. When our character succeeds, we rejoice. Don't like the outcome? Well, then, you should've done things differently, dummy. While I'm not suggesting that games are better than film, they are simply different and arguably just as valid as high art. At a primitive level, it's not uncommon to punch the sofa in anger after failing a gaming objective. Just the same, it's nearly expected to vocalize with triumph after conquering the same obstacle. Emotional response does not automatically equal art, but creating something which vents one's senses and emotions and appeals to those of others certainly is. Different than stubbing your toe or finding 20 bucks in the street, gaming situations were carefully orchestrated to provide an experience which is dependent on the gamer to interpret. Why should emotions such as fear, love, and sadness be excluded from gaming?

Making my way down from my soapbox, I'll say that perhaps the most intimate display of emotion is crying. Here's the Top 5 moments in gaming that seem to get me every time. SPOILER ALERT: I hate having something ruined just as much as you do, so I'm giving a fair warning right now. This list contains spoilers for several high profile Nintendo titles. None are from the Wii (excluding the Virtual Console), but I will say that the fifth item refers to the WiiWare-bound Cave Story. If you haven't played the game and plan on purchasing it (which you definitely should!), please skip to number four.



The Top 5 is a weekly feature that provides us with a forum to share our opinions on various aspects of the video game culture, and provides you with a forum to tell us how wrong we are. To further voice your opinions, submit a vote in the Wii Fanboy Poll, and take part in the daily discussions of Wii Warm Up.

JoystiqTop 5: Biggest Tear-Jerkers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 13:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storyjoystiqfeatureslinklinks-awakeningmetal-gear-solidmetroidocarina-of-timepixelsamussolid-snakesuper-metroidtop-5zeldaMon, 13 Oct 2008 13:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story site open for exploration]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/cave-story-site-open-for-exploration/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/cave-story-site-open-for-exploration/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/07/cave-story-site-open-for-exploration/#commentsFiled under:


The official website for the WiiWare release of Cave Story has opened, featuring faithful-looking screenshots (also in our gallery!) and a special, upbeat message from Pixel. A message, by the way, that lends further evidence of the WiiWare game's use of the Aeon Genesis fan translation. If they're named right there on the site, their work is probably in the game! The music, by the way, is "Moonsong" and it's a very ... MIDI arrangement.

There's also a link out to an official blog maintained by producer Tyrone Rodriguez, in which it becomes clear that Rodriguez and Pixel are in frequent contact about the project. Pixel even sent Rodriguez the hand-drawn birthday card seen above!

Our favorite part, however, is the wallpaper page. The selection of wallpapers is different for every user, but they're all wonderful!

JoystiqCave Story site open for exploration originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Oct 2008 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storynicalispixelplatformremakeTue, 07 Oct 2008 10:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Huzzah!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/04/wii-warm-up-huzzah/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/04/wii-warm-up-huzzah/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/04/wii-warm-up-huzzah/#commentsFiled under:


Okay, you guys have probably figured out that a couple of Wii Fanboy staffers are enormous fans of Cave Story. I happen to think that it's completely brilliant, and a better game in terms of presentation, control, music, level design, story, and characterization than just about anything else -- and yes, that includes games that are sold for money. Judging from these off-screen videos, the WiiWare version (developed by Nicalis, home of Knytt creator Nifflas! How perfect is that?), is quite faithful except for the music. We'll have to wait before judging that too harshly. In any case, Pixel is getting my money. I still hope he's involved in this port in some way.

Are you guys up for paying money for a formerly free game? What do you hope to see in the "expanded content?" Is anyone out there just discovering the original game as a result of the announcement of the WiiWare version?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Huzzah! originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 Oct 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storydoukutsu-monogataripixelplatformportSat, 04 Oct 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story on WiiWare 'this holiday season' with new 'content and features']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/cave-story-on-wiiware-this-holiday-season-with-new-content-an/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/cave-story-on-wiiware-this-holiday-season-with-new-content-an/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/cave-story-on-wiiware-this-holiday-season-with-new-content-an/#commentsFiled under:


Tucked inside a press release straight from Nintendo of America comes the downplayed news that Cave Story - the Japanese freeware cult-classic - is coming to "Wii this holiday season" via the console's often dubious WiiWare service.

But it's not just a straight port, oh no. The indie Metroidvania title will have "new, exclusive content and features created only for the WiiWare version." No word on what those are, what Cave Story will cost or, really, when "this holiday season" it'll be available to play. But, hey, if you've got a "computer" at home, you can play it today. Without waiting. Or paying "money."

Download Cave Story (1.5MB)

JoystiqCave Story on WiiWare 'this holiday season' with new 'content and features' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsCave-StoryDoukutsu-MonogatariPixelWiiWiiWareThu, 02 Oct 2008 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story coming to WiiWare this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/cave-story-coming-to-wiiware-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/cave-story-coming-to-wiiware-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/cave-story-coming-to-wiiware-this-year/#commentsFiled under: ,


Okay, we thought we had seen the best possible announcements out of Nintendo. Sin & Punishment 2. Punch-Out!! We were so spectacularly wrong. Buried unassumingly in Nintendo's press release about the conference is confirmation of a WiiWare release of Cave Story.

If you're not familiar with Cave Story, we're very sorry. Also, it's a freeware PC game created by one designer named Pixel; we happen to think that the tile-based action/platformer is the best example of the "Metroidvania" genre ever created -- better than Super Metroid, better than Symphony of the Night. And now it's going to be on WiiWare by the end of the year with "new, exclusive content and features created only for the WiiWare version."

We desperately hope it's Pixel himself doing all the creating, but in any case, this is the best news ever and we're going to go roll around on the floor.

JoystiqCave Story coming to WiiWare this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actioncave-storydoukutsu-monogatariomgpixelplatformThu, 02 Oct 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How WipEout maintains 60fps and 1080p]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/how-wipeout-maintains-60fps-and-1080p/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/how-wipeout-maintains-60fps-and-1080p/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/29/how-wipeout-maintains-60fps-and-1080p/#commentsFiled under:


Maintaining 1080p and 60fps is no easy feat. In fact, many games in this generation can barely pump out 720p graphics, as seen by upscaling tricks used by titles like Haze, Halo 3 and Grand Theft Auto IV. However, WipEout HD is one of the few games that maintains 1080p at a silky smooth 60fps. How were they able to do that?

Inside the Digital Foundry once again examined the pure pixel count of WipEout HD. What they found is interesting. The game does, for the most part, run in full 1080p. However, when the action becomes too intense, the game will downscale the resolution. It appears the PS3 figures out exactly what resolution the game needs to run at frame-by-frame to ensure the game's 60fps count is never broken. "Rather than introduce dropped frames, slow down or other unsavoury effects, the number of pixels being rendered drops and the PS3's horizontal hardware scaler is invoked to make up the difference. It's an intriguing solution that works with limited impact on the overall look of the game"

It appears the lowest resolution WipEout can render in is 1280x1080, which is still a 50% increase over 720p. The end result is something gamers, regardless of their AV tech knowledge, can truly appreciate.

[Thanks, kzin!]

JoystiqHow WipEout maintains 60fps and 1080p originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080p60fpspixelupscalingwipeoutwipeout-hdMon, 29 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Huzzah? Cave Story may be headed to WiiWare [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/huzzah-cave-story-may-be-headed-to-wiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/huzzah-cave-story-may-be-headed-to-wiiware/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/huzzah-cave-story-may-be-headed-to-wiiware/#commentsFiled under:

This is definitely the best possibly-fake news we've heard in a while. Apparently, Doukutsu Monogatari (Cave Story) creator Pixel has asked everyone developing ports of his masterpiece (including the PlayStation 3 Linux version) to stop their work.

According to Amigaworld.net, who reported on the cancellation of the Amiga OS4 version, the reason for the cutoff of port projects is that Cave Story is planned for release on WiiWare. The implication here is that this version of Cave Story will be official and Pixel-approved (or, ideally, Pixel-developed). We hope this is true, because we would love to play Cave Story on the Wii, and we'd love to give Pixel some money for the privilege.

[Update: Amigaworld redacted the previous statement. Apparently it's all some kind of misunderstanding.]

[Via Indie Games]

JoystiqHuzzah? Cave Story may be headed to WiiWare [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cave-storycavestorydoukutsumonogotarimetroidvaniapixelplatformTue, 29 Jul 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More pixel counting: Haze runs at 576p]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/more-pixel-counting-haze-runs-at-576p/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/more-pixel-counting-haze-runs-at-576p/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/more-pixel-counting-haze-runs-at-576p/#commentsFiled under:

It appears that many games this generation aren't meeting the 1080p HD standard that Sony set on PS3. Heck, many games aren't meeting the standard 720p HD resolution, either. For example, Grand Theft Auto IV runs at 640p on PS3. While these kind of shortcomings don't impact the overall visual fidelity, many gamers are still up in arms about these missing pixels.

Haze is the next game to fall under the careful watch of videophiles. The recently released demo, when scrutinized, is shown to be running at 576p. Free Radical's Derek Littlewood confirmed to Ripten that the final game also runs in a lower resolution. "That's where we ended up with for Haze ... but I don't understand why people care whether there's 20 pixels, 50 pixels, or 100 pixels more."

Other games, like Call of Duty 4 and Halo 3 on Xbox 360, have used lower resolutions to improve overall visual effects. It should be up to every gamer to decide, with their own eyes, whether or not the lowered resolution has created a diminished visual experience for Haze.

[Via Digg]

JoystiqMore pixel counting: Haze runs at 576p originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 May 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>576phazepixelpixelsresolutionMon, 19 May 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The dirt on Cave Story DS, Cave Story-engraved DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/the-dirt-on-cave-story-ds-cave-story-engraved-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/the-dirt-on-cave-story-ds-cave-story-engraved-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/13/the-dirt-on-cave-story-ds-cave-story-engraved-ds/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Praised by almost everyone who's played the freeware PC title, Cave Story is considered by many to be the pinnacle of the "Metroidvania" genre, a polished action platformer embellished with endearing characters and a catchy soundtrack. No matter how many times we're reminded of the fact, it always astounds us that the game was designed and developed by a single programmer, Daisuke Amaya, or Pixel, as he's more commonly known.

As you might should know, homebrew developer Ravenworks has been working on a DS port for Cave Story. As it turns out, however, Pixel doesn't own a Nintendo DS, so it would be unlikely that he'd be able to play the port once it's completed. In fact, he hasn't owned a handheld or home console since the Nintendo 64! Isn't it a crime nowadays for gamers in Japan to not own a Nintendo DS?

To keep Pixel out of jail, Ravenworks and the rest of the "All Things Studio Pixel (ATSP)" LiveJournal community raised $410 and put together a care package of handheld treats as a "thank you" for the DS-less developer's work. Here's everything the group purchased and sent:
So, how did Pixel take to the package? You can read his reaction, as well as the community's reasons for picking those two particular games for their offering, past the post break! We also used this effort as an excuse to catch up with Ravenworks on Cave Story DS's progress.

Gallery: Pixel's Cave Story-engraved DS

Continue reading The dirt on Cave Story DS, Cave Story-engraved DS

JoystiqThe dirt on Cave Story DS, Cave Story-engraved DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 May 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casecave-storycavestoryDoukutsu-Monogatariearthboundgame-center-cxjoystiqfeaturesmetroidvaniamotherpixelportravenworksTue, 13 May 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Counting pixels: GTA IV runs at 640p]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/counting-pixels-gta-iv-runs-at-630p/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/counting-pixels-gta-iv-runs-at-630p/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/counting-pixels-gta-iv-runs-at-630p/#commentsFiled under:


Picking up the PS3 version of GTA IV, so you can get as many pixels onto your TV as possible? Well, that's apparently not what's happening. According to the pixel counters at the Beyond 3D forums, the PS3 version doesn't run at 1080p. Heck, it doesn't run at 720p. Rather, it runs at 640p -- still enough to be "HD," but far from the "full HD" experience Sony usually touts.

Pixel hunters were enraged when it was discovered Halo 3 ran at a lower resolution on Xbox 360 than advertised. However, should people stay away from the PS3 version? Probably not. Many Beyond 3D users note that in spite of the lesser resolution, the superior effects of the PS3 version gives it the visual edge: "the PS3 version looks nicer IMO. Everything just blends in nicely and makes a seamless contrast between front objects and background objects," noted forum user Nebula.

[Thanks, ClarkyCat!]

[Update: PS3 runs at 640p. Xbox 360 does run at a higher resolution: 720p.]

JoystiqCounting pixels: GTA IV runs at 640p originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Apr 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>640p720pgrand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-ivgtagtaivpixelTue, 29 Apr 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Show and Tell: Pixelated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/show-and-tell-pixelated/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/show-and-tell-pixelated/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/24/show-and-tell-pixelated/#commentsFiled under:

We love to show off your stuff in this space, from collections (or partial collections) to unusual DIY mods and decorating projects, to, well, whatever you can come up with! But if you present something in a creative manner, you're probably going to get our attention, and reader yanya did just that.

Got something that makes you particularly proud? We like thingamabobs and doohickeys and swag of all sorts, as well as food and furniture and anything fun ... so long as it's related to Nintendo! Just take some pictures, tell us what's up, and send it all to showmeit [at] dsfanboy [dot] com. We'll take care of the rest.

So, can you guess what yanya did with these games? Hint: it involves something we're hotly, heavily anticipating.

Continue reading Show and Tell: Pixelated

JoystiqShow and Tell: Pixelated originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pixelspace-invadersspace-invaders-extremeThu, 24 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fully playable Cave Story PSP demo released]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/fully-playable-cave-story-psp-demo-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/fully-playable-cave-story-psp-demo-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/fully-playable-cave-story-psp-demo-released/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


That was ... fast! Just a few weeks ago homebrew demos were released of Cave Story ports for both the DS and PSP. Looks like ufo_z is nearly finished with the PSP version and has unleashed release candidate one, playable from beginning to end with a few minor bugs due to the stretched screen size. It's not the final version, and at the speed things are going it might be a good idea to wait a few days for the bugs to be squashed. But it's free, the game's creator has given it a thumbs up, and if you have PSP capable of playing homebrew games, the thought of a portable Cave Story will probably make you too giddy to wait.

JoystiqFully playable Cave Story PSP demo released originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jul 2007 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cavestoryfreewarehomebrewjapanesePCpixelpspTue, 10 Jul 2007 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story demo released for PSP, DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/cave-story-demos-released-for-psp-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/cave-story-demos-released-for-psp-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/cave-story-demos-released-for-psp-ds/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Two homebrew programmers have just released demos for DS and PSP versions of the freeware PC game Cave Story. A previous attempt by Variant Interactive to publish the game commercially has apparently fallen through, though the company has not officially confirmed this. Fortunately for us, dedicated homebrew programmers aren't content to let the masterpiece remain computer-bound.

Ufo_z, working on the PSP incarnation, has received approval from Pixel and has finished coding up through the first boss encounter. Working on the DS game is ravenworks who has taken a slightly different approach and is re-writing the game to fit the DS system's hardware. Both attempts show a lot of promise and run well on the actual systems or an emulator. Download the DS demo and PSP demo.

JoystiqCave Story demo released for PSP, DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jun 2007 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualcavestorydoukutsumonogotaridsfreewarehomebrewindependentindiemetroidvaniapixelpspThu, 28 Jun 2007 18:55:00 EST<![CDATA[New Cave Story: DS demo released, pants soiled]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/new-cave-story-ds-demo-released-pants-soiled/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/new-cave-story-ds-demo-released-pants-soiled/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/new-cave-story-ds-demo-released-pants-soiled/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With the approval and source code of Cave Story's father, Pixel, homebrew developer RavenWorks has spent the past year porting the indie classic to the DS. We've called the PC title to your attention before, praising it as one the most charming and polished titles we've ever had the pleasure of playing.

The project was originally bound for the GBA, but RavenWorks eventually migrated his code and rewrote the graphics engine to take advantage of Nintendo's new hardware. Current plans for the touchscreen include a map display and a "tap-to-switch-weapons interface" (accompanying L/R weapon switching).

Cave Story: DS's newest demo allows you to explore the game's levels and mess with NPCs, its memorable soundtrack playing all the while. Though scripting, weapons, and many other features haven't been included yet, we're just happy to see that progress is still being made on the port. Make sure to download the demo and let RavenWorks know that his efforts are appreciated!

If you don't have the homebrew tools necessary to test this early build, we have a few screenshots for you to preview in our gallery. You can also disguise yourself with a Mimiga mask and sneak past the post break for some shakycam video we dug up.

Continue reading New Cave Story: DS demo released, pants soiled

JoystiqNew Cave Story: DS demo released, pants soiled originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cave StoryCaveStorydemoDoukutsu MonogatariDoukutsuMonogataridshomebrewndsnintendonintendo dsNintendoDspixelravenworksromTue, 26 Jun 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story patch allows you to switch main characters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/cave-story-patch-allows-you-to-switch-main-characters/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/cave-story-patch-allows-you-to-switch-main-characters/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/cave-story-patch-allows-you-to-switch-main-characters/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


A new patch by Efraim Siounis for the freeware platform adventure Cave Story lets you play as one of nine different characters from the game. Simply grab the pbm file from Efraim's site, rename it to "MyChar.pbm", and drop it in the /data directory under the Cave Story folder. When you start the game all main character sprites will be magically switched. Currently you can play as Curly, Toroko, Jenka, Sue, King, Crown, Booster, or a dog. It doesn't change the game much, but you'll have something new to stare at as you discover another excuse to play through the game ... again.

JoystiqCave Story patch allows you to switch main characters originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 01:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurecasualcavestoryfreewarehackindependentindieMacmetroidvaniapatchPCpixelTue, 26 Jun 2007 01:56:00 EST<![CDATA[DIY pixel art T-shirts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/24/diy-pixel-art-t-shirts/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/24/diy-pixel-art-t-shirts/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/24/diy-pixel-art-t-shirts/#commentsFiled under: ,


Here's a cute art project for a lazy afternoon: Do-it-yourself pixel art shirts. HackerZen has all the instructions on how to make your own pixel art clothing for those of us without silkscreen contraptions. The project does seem a little bit involved, but if you've got a kid to keep occupied for a full afternoon, here's a good option. We're keen on the Mario shirt, but anything 8-bit is easily possible.

It's amazing what you can find in a modern crafts store. There must be an iron-on thing where you can fill in what you want and do the same thing ... although, acrylic paint definitely has better staying power than an iron-on. If this art project seems a little bit too involved, might we suggest the simpler and less artistically taxing game clocks.

[Via DSFanboy]

JoystiqDIY pixel art T-shirts originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 24 Jun 2007 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artclothingfashionpixeltshirtSun, 24 Jun 2007 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Story music inspired by ... polka?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/10/cave-story-music-inspired-by-polka/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/10/cave-story-music-inspired-by-polka/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/10/cave-story-music-inspired-by-polka/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

By now we've all played, re-played, and generally gushed over Pixel's freeware platformer Cave Story. The game is so good, we've even fallen in love with the soundtrack. But did you know one of those tunes is a remixed polka song? Yes, polka. And we're not talking Weird Al-style Polkamon, either.

The music that accompanies the Finnish dance Letkajenkka (often referred to as Jenkka) bears a striking resemblance to Jenka's theme (track number 16) from Cave Story. And by "striking resemblance" we mean it's the exact same song morphed into a chiptune-style piece. Kinda makes us wonder if, deep down, some twisted part of our being actually enjoys polka.

[Via Independent Gaming]

JoystiqCave Story music inspired by ... polka? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Apr 2007 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cavestoryindependentindiejapaneseMacmusicPCpixelTue, 10 Apr 2007 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Secret "Simple Start" Wi-Fi connection? [Update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/10/secret-simple-start-wi-fi-connection/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/10/secret-simple-start-wi-fi-connection/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/10/secret-simple-start-wi-fi-connection/#commentsFiled under: ,


File this one under "What the hell?" Some astute gamer has discovered a hidden feature inside the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection setup menu, and one that certainly leans itself toward DS-to-Wii connection theory. The video gives an extremely detailed explanation, so check it out....now. Go ahead.

Done? All right. The system asks for the player to press a "Simple Start Wi-Fi Button", something that clearly doesn't exist on any existing Nintendo hardware. So, is this how the Wii and the DS will sync up? Before you run off wildly screaming the news throughout your house, we offer these two bits of counter-evidence. First, regading the Wii, we've seen essentially every button and switch on the damn thing, even inside the "mysterious" front flap; no "Simple Start" or even remotely related button has been seen or reported. Second, accessing this mode by hitting the absolute upper-left pixel on the touch screen is ridiculous; in certain cases the stylus can't even reach the pixel, and a toothpick or other thin, prodding device must be used.

We've seen no reason why "DS Download Play" would fail to properly pick up and sync with a Nintendo Wii console, so we'll chalk this up as a feature that will fade, like the legendary city of Atlantis, into one of the unexplained mysteries of the past.

[Update 1: The internet, it seems, will brook no mysteries. Save Atlantis. Click here for an extremely detailed explanation of this feature, and as speculated, it has nothing to do with Wii connectivity.]

[Thanks, Super-Jesse-Mario!]

JoystiqSecret "Simple Start" Wi-Fi connection? [Update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Sep 2006 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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