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[GameStop offering exclusive downloadable Mythical Pokemon on Aug. 27]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/gamestop-offering-exclusive-downloadable-mythical-pokemon-on-aug/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/gamestop-offering-exclusive-downloadable-mythical-pokemon-on-aug/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/07/gamestop-offering-exclusive-downloadable-mythical-pokemon-on-aug/#comments GameStop offering exclusive downloadable Pokemon on August 27On August 20, Nintendo will reveal more info on a promotion taking place at your local GameStop later this month. From August 27 until October 6, a new Mythical Pokémon will be unlocked for all players who head to their local GameStop and download the exclusive Pokémon in either Pokémon White or Pokémon Black.

The only info about this new Pokémon lies in the image above - it's some kind of horse thing, we guess? Like a flamey-haired horse thing? Look for the official unveiling on August 20.

[Thanks, Deoxys911.]

JoystiqGameStop offering exclusive downloadable Mythical Pokemon on Aug. 27 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 03:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdownloaddsgamestopnintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhiteTue, 07 Aug 2012 03:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Catch Mewtwo in Pokemon White and Black starting on Feb. 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/catch-mewtwo-in-pokemon-white-and-black-starting-on-feb-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/catch-mewtwo-in-pokemon-white-and-black-starting-on-feb-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/catch-mewtwo-in-pokemon-white-and-black-starting-on-feb-12/#comments It was hard for us to trust Pokémon again after Gold and Silver came out. We had spent years learning every minute detail about the original 151, and suddenly all of that work and devotion was worthless? What's more, it needed repeating with 100 more Pokemon? We may have been young tykes, but we were old enough to feel broken.

Regardless, the Kanto Pokemon still hold a special place in our hearts, and it's endearing to see one of the most awesome monsters in the OG Pokedex coming back into the fold. Starting on February 12, Mewtwo (#150 for you whippersnappers out there) will be distributed to Pokémon White/Black via the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service "for a limited time."

Further information about the event is forthcoming, but we do know that the legendary clone comes packing "an exclusive move that Mewtwo cannot normally learn," which we're hoping is an ability that takes us back to the days of the PokeRap and Team Rocket's original voice actors.

JoystiqCatch Mewtwo in Pokemon White and Black starting on Feb. 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdseventkantomewmewtwonintendonintendo-wifi-connectionpokedexpokemonpokemon-blackPokemon-Black-and-Whitepokemon-whiteThu, 26 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon World Championship Series dated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/pokemon-world-championship-series-dated/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/pokemon-world-championship-series-dated/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/18/pokemon-world-championship-series-dated/#comments Warm up your Bidoofs and polish off your Pawniards, because it's time to start preparing your flock of collectable pocket monsters for the 2012 Pokemon Championship Series! Comprised of a series of battles held across Europe, the top 4 trainers from each tournament will win an all-expenses-paid trip to the Pokemon World Championship in sunny, distinctly non-european Hawaii, USA.

Players are separated into three divisions based on age: Junior, for those born after 2001, Senior, for those born between 1997 and 2000, and Master, for grizzled old Poke-veterans born before 1996. All participants must bring their own (3)DS and must battle using their regions' version of Pokemon Black/White. The latest National Pokedex has been opened for use, meaning that all all 646 Pokemon are eligible for ranked tournament battles, save for a small handfull of legendary and extremely rare monsters. Check out this PDF for the complete rules and jump past the break for tournament dates and locations.

Continue reading Pokemon World Championship Series dated

JoystiqPokemon World Championship Series dated originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 18 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20123dsdseuropehawaiinintendopocket-monsterspokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whitepokemon-championshippokemon-championship-seriesSun, 18 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A wild Victini appears, just in time for the new Pokemon movie]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/a-wild-victini-appears-just-in-time-for-the-new-pokemon-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/a-wild-victini-appears-just-in-time-for-the-new-pokemon-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/29/a-wild-victini-appears-just-in-time-for-the-new-pokemon-movie/#comments We're guessing that a majority of our readership isn't too terribly stoked for the two-day theatrical arrival of Pokémon the Movie: White-Victini and Zekrom, which is really the real name of a real movie. This, however, may tickle your fancy: Coinciding with the film's December 3 launch, players of Pokemon Black and White will be able to grab a Level 50 Victini through the game's Wi-Fi Connection portal.

This promotion comes with two benefits, the first of which being that Victini, a legendary Fire and Psychic type with moves that enhance the powers of his teammates, is a powerhouse. The second is that you don't have to go to Toys R' Us to attempt to stealthily grab Victini, living in constant fear that you'll end up on some kind of government watchlist.

Gallery: Pokemon Black/White (Victini)

Continue reading A wild Victini appears, just in time for the new Pokemon movie

JoystiqA wild Victini appears, just in time for the new Pokemon movie originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Pokemon-Black-and-WhiteTue, 29 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nobody on the planet is as good at Pokemon as Ray Rizzo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/nobody-on-the-planet-is-as-good-at-pokemon-as-ray-rizzo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/nobody-on-the-planet-is-as-good-at-pokemon-as-ray-rizzo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/17/nobody-on-the-planet-is-as-good-at-pokemon-as-ray-rizzo/#comments Ray Rizzo is the greatest Pokémon player on the planet.

We have a number of reasons for thinking that -- the most obvious being that Ray Rizzo is the greatest name a human being has ever been given -- but Rizzo's accomplishments speak for themselves. He placed first in the Masters division of the 2011 Pokémon World Championships, bringing the gold home for the United States; as did Junior and Senior division winners Brian Hough and Kamran Jahadi. Take that, every other country!

These big, American heroes will take home portions of a $100,000 scholarship fund made available to competitors in the video game and trading card game tournaments. Still, we think being lifted on the shoulders of your peers and told that you're the greatest Pokémon player on the planet is probably reward enough.

Continue reading Nobody on the planet is as good at Pokemon as Ray Rizzo

JoystiqNobody on the planet is as good at Pokemon as Ray Rizzo originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 01:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freaknintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whiteray-rizzothe-pokemon-companyWed, 17 Aug 2011 01:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo has one million seller per console in last quarter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/nintendo-has-one-million-seller-per-console-in-last-quarter/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/nintendo-has-one-million-seller-per-console-in-last-quarter/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/29/nintendo-has-one-million-seller-per-console-in-last-quarter/#comments The NPD suggested that audiences were receptive of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D (by which we mean they bought it), but new data from Nintendo reveals just how successful the game was in its debut month.

In its list of million-selling first-party titles for the last quarter (ending June 30), Ocarina of Time is the only 3DS game listed, having sold 1.08 million copies -- approximately 270,000 in Japan, 810,000 elsewhere.

Nintendo's other platforms also feature one lonely million seller each ... well, technically there are two on the DS, combined: Pokemon Black and White sold 1.36 mllion in the quarter, bringing it up to a global life-to-date total of 12.87 million. And Mario Kart Wii repped for the Wii all by itself, selling 1.22 million in the quarter, up to a ridiculous 2.82 million lifetime total.

JoystiqNintendo has one million seller per console in last quarter originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsmario-kart-wiinintendopokemon-black-and-whitesalesthe-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-timethe-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-time-3dwiiFri, 29 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wolfe Glick is the very best, like no one ever was]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/wolfe-glick-is-the-very-best-like-no-one-ever-was/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/wolfe-glick-is-the-very-best-like-no-one-ever-was/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/wolfe-glick-is-the-very-best-like-no-one-ever-was/#comments Americans, gather round and pay tribute to our nation's most esteemed representatives: The best and brightest Pokémon trainers who have battled their way to the top of the U.S. tournament ladder. This past weekend, the winners of each regional Pokémon Video Game Championship bracket faced off in Indianapolis, weeding out the top eight trainers from the Junior (born after 2000), Senior (born 1995 - 1999) and Master (born before 1995) divisions.

These 24 youngsters will now head to San Diego, Calif. where they'll face off against other top-tier players from around the globe in the Pokémon Video Game World Championships. Check out the full list of eligible trainers after the jump.

We're personally pulling for the Zheng brothers, who locked down top spots in the Junior and Senior brackets. Of course, we're also big fans of Wolfe Glick, the Master-tier Champion; though that has less to do with his remarkable monster-dueling prowess, and more to do with his preposterously amazing name.

Continue reading Wolfe Glick is the very best, like no one ever was

JoystiqWolfe Glick is the very best, like no one ever was originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jul 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freaknintendoPokemon-Black-and-Whitepokemon-video-game-championshipthe-pokemon-companywolfe-glickTue, 12 Jul 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon charity marathon aims to catch them all at the same time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/pokemon-charity-marathon-aims-to-catch-them-all-at-the-same-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/pokemon-charity-marathon-aims-to-catch-them-all-at-the-same-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/pokemon-charity-marathon-aims-to-catch-them-all-at-the-same-time/#comments If you haven't spent all your money on charity gaming marathons yet, another opportunity for you to throw money at human suffering is coming up -- and this time, it's a test of both endurance and gluttony.

Starting on July 15, Pro3Studios will embark on a 72-hour marathon, in which it will attempt to catch all the Pokémon species in Pokémon FireRed, Emerald, Diamond, Pearl, HeartGold, SoulSilver, Black, and White -- simultaneously. The gameplay will be streamed on a 3x3 grid, allowing you to watch it all happen in real time.

As this is going on, the group will accept donations through PayPal for the Children's Miracle Network. Those donations will allow viewers the privilege of naming some Pokémon and specifying a song for one of the players to sing on air -- and also, you know, help children.

JoystiqPokemon charity marathon aims to catch them all at the same time originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 23:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitydsgame-boymarathonnintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whitepro3studiosMon, 11 Jul 2011 23:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Regional Tournaments end with a Dragon Rush of stats]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/pokemon-regional-tournaments-end-with-a-dragon-rush-of-stats/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/pokemon-regional-tournaments-end-with-a-dragon-rush-of-stats/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/03/pokemon-regional-tournaments-end-with-a-dragon-rush-of-stats/#comments People who dedicate a significant portion of their lives to the honorable art of capturing and training Pokemon deserve some recognition and, this summer, they're getting it. The 2011 Pokemon Black and Pokemon White Video Game Championship just completed its Regional Tournaments, and the kingdom's most powerful trainers have revealed some strategies regarding their noble creatures, as compiled by IGN.

Hydreigon, a Dark/Dragon Pokemon with three pairs of wings and a vicious cry, was the clear champion at Regionals, helping compose 53 percent of winning teams. Dark and Grass Pokemon made up 15 percent each of the most-used primary types, while Steel took a low 1 percent. Trainers used Protect for 14 percent of their moves, a clear majority when compared to the next-highest move, Rock Slide, at only 5.5 percent. For some pretty pictures to go along with the stats and a list of Regional winners, take a peek at IGN's post. National Championships run July 8-10 in Indianapolis, Indiana, because that's where heroes are made.

JoystiqPokemon Regional Tournaments end with a Dragon Rush of stats originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 03 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dshydreigonnintendoPokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whitepokemon-world-championships-2011regional-tournamentSun, 03 Jul 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendogs + Cats is Nintendo's first 3DS million seller]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/nintendogs-cats-is-nintendos-first-3ds-million-seller/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/nintendogs-cats-is-nintendos-first-3ds-million-seller/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/26/nintendogs-cats-is-nintendos-first-3ds-million-seller/#comments As it does after every earnings report, Nintendo sent out a "supplementary" release featuring all of the first-party games that sold a million copies or more in the last fiscal year. One 3DS game made the cut: Nintendogs + Cats, which sold 460,000 units in Japan and 1.25 million in the West. The odds were kind of stacked in favor of this game -- it was released in three different versions, it was the only first-party game at launch, and puppies are cute.

On Wii, Mario Sports Mix made it into the million-seller category, with a worldwide 1.54 million copies. And Super Mario All-Stars Limited Edition proved the viability (unfortunately) of selling an SNES game in a $30 box, by shifting 2.24 million units. On DS, Pokémon Black and White are up to a combined 11.51 million units, which, in our professional estimation, is an uncomfortably large number.

JoystiqNintendogs + Cats is Nintendo's first 3DS million seller originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsmario-sports-mixnintendonintendogs-plus-catspokemon-black-and-whitesaleswiiwii-partyTue, 26 Apr 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White World Championship detailed, kicks off next month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/pokemon-black-and-white-world-championship-detailed-kicks-off-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/pokemon-black-and-white-world-championship-detailed-kicks-off-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/19/pokemon-black-and-white-world-championship-detailed-kicks-off-n/#comments You've caught 'em all. You've trained them. You've bred them, trained them, and then EV trained them. You've hunted for their rare, shiny counterparts. You've done every little thing there is to do in the confines of Pokémon Black and White -- but you haven't yet taken on the world. Like, the real world. You know, the one we live in? Nintendo announced today its schedule for the 2011 Pokémon World Championship, a killer, three-month-long event which will test the mettle of trainers across the U.S. and Europe.

Players in the U.S. will have to attend a qualifying event held in one of six cities, starting with Seattle on May 14. Each qualifier will send sixteen players from the Junior Division (players born in 2000 or later) and the Senior Division (players born before 2000) to the National Championships on July 8 in Indianapolis. From there, the top eight will move on to the World Championships in San Diego on August 12, where they'll battle for fame, fortune and global Pokémon bragging rights, which is way more valuable then those other two things.

Check out the full schedule for the tournaments in the press release posted after the jump!

Continue reading Pokemon Black and White World Championship detailed, kicks off next month

JoystiqPokemon Black and White World Championship detailed, kicks off next month originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>championshipdsgame-freaknintendoPokemon-Black-and-Whitethe-pokemon-companyTue, 19 Apr 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[March NPD: Let Pokemon show you its sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/march-npd-let-pokemon-show-you-its-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/march-npd-let-pokemon-show-you-its-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/march-npd-let-pokemon-show-you-its-sales/#comments The 3DS launched last month to mixed results, as far as we can tell. NPD doesn't report hardware numbers, of course, but the agency reports that in its first seven days on the market, the handheld's performance "compares quite favorably to that of the best-selling dedicated handheld gaming platform of all time, the Nintendo DS." It sold about 100,000 fewer units than the 479,000 DS did in its launch month -- but that was a November.

Nintendo previously said the console had the best first day of any handheld in US history. Even so, it managed not to be the top seller of the month. That honor goes to ... the Nintendo DS.

And here's why. The top two games, unsurprisingly, are both DS titles -- Pokemon Black and White, the latter of which is the best-selling Pokemon game at launch ever, the NPD says. In fact, the only 3DS title on the top 10 is Lego Star Wars 3, and that shares the position with Wii, DS, Xbox 360 and PS3 versions of the same game. The NPD provides no indication of how many copies were sold on any one platform.

Directly under the Pokemans at No. 3 is Homefront, suggesting that as far as gimmicks go, not being very good trumps 3D. A pair of debuts from EA, Dragon Age 2 and Crysis 2, also found their way into the top 10 -- the full list can be seen after the break.

Continue reading March NPD: Let Pokemon show you its sales

JoystiqMarch NPD: Let Pokemon show you its sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsmicrosoftnintendonpdnpd-monthlypcplaystationPokemon-Black-and-Whiteps3pspsonywiixboxThu, 14 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White use $10 off on Amazon, it's super effective]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/02/pokemon-black-and-white-use-10-off-on-amazon-its-super-effect/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/02/pokemon-black-and-white-use-10-off-on-amazon-its-super-effect/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/02/pokemon-black-and-white-use-10-off-on-amazon-its-super-effect/#comments If you've been holding off on purchasing Pokémon Black and White until its price is reduced or until you overcome your fears of what your grown-ass friends will think -- well, you can put one of those to rest. The new generation is available for $24.99 on Amazon as the current Deal of the Day.

Continue reading Pokemon Black and White use $10 off on Amazon, it's super effective

JoystiqPokemon Black and White use $10 off on Amazon, it's super effective originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazondeal-of-the-daydsgame-freaknintendoPokemon-Black-and-Whitethe-pokemon-companySat, 02 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White sell 2 million in U.S. in first two weeks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/pokemon-black-and-white-sell-2-million-in-u-s-in-first-two-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/pokemon-black-and-white-sell-2-million-in-u-s-in-first-two-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/26/pokemon-black-and-white-sell-2-million-in-u-s-in-first-two-week/#comments The Pokémon franchise is commonly criticized for refusing to change between generations -- luckily for Nintendo, one of the elements that doesn't seem to change over the years is all the mad, mad money each new installment pulls in. Nintendo of America recently Tweeted to inform its followers Pokémon Black and White have sold 2 million units in the U.S. during their first two weeks on store shelves.

On top of the 5 million-plus copies that have sold in Japan, we think it's safe to say that gamers aren't scared off by all the similarities to previous iterations of the franchise. We're a little worried about the game's success, though -- after all, it's going to be rather difficult to be the very best (like no one ever was) when over 7 million people share our aspirations.

JoystiqPokemon Black and White sell 2 million in U.S. in first two weeks originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Mar 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freakindustrynintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhitesalesThe-Pokemon-CompanySat, 26 Mar 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Age 2 champions UK sales chart]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/dragon-age-2-champions-uk-sales-chart/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/dragon-age-2-champions-uk-sales-chart/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/14/dragon-age-2-champions-uk-sales-chart/#comments Dragon Age 2, as it was foretold by the Chantry prophecies, took the top spot on Chart-Track's all formats UK sales chart for the week of March 6. Hawke's ascension meant that s/he pushed back the Pokémon of the White and Black breeds to second and fourth place, respectively.

Fight Night Champion beat up most of the competition to retain third place, while Just Dance 2's seductive moves helped it slide up two spots to fifth.

The big move last week was THQ's uDraw Studio (with Game Tablet), which shot up into tenth place from #83 in its second week at retail. Check out the complete UK top ten after the break.

Continue reading Dragon Age 2 champions UK sales chart

JoystiqDragon Age 2 champions UK sales chart originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Mar 2011 11:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chart-trackchart-track-weeklyDragon-Age-2fight-night-championjust-dance-2microsoftnintendoplaystationpokemon-black-and-whiteps3salesudrawukwiixboxMon, 14 Mar 2011 11:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White sells 1.08 million on US launch day]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/pokemon-black-and-white-sells-1-08-million-on-us-launch-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/pokemon-black-and-white-sells-1-08-million-on-us-launch-day/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/08/pokemon-black-and-white-sells-1-08-million-on-us-launch-day/#comments Worried that the latest Pokémon generation wouldn't find much traction on North American store shelves due to their absence of titular color? Your fears were unwarranted -- within the first 24 hours of their launch, 1.08 million copies of Pokémon Black and White were sold, beating out the record of 780,000 units set by Pokémon Pearl and Diamond.

The reason for this growth? It probably has something to do with the fact that we keep getting older, but still love playing Pokémon, and also babies keep getting born, and eventually they love playing Pokémon too. That's no unnatural phenomenon -- that's basic physical anthropology.

JoystiqPokemon Black and White sells 1.08 million on US launch day originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freaknintendoPokemon-Black-and-Whitesalesthe-pokemon-companyTue, 08 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Presidents of the United States of America pen a Pokemon song]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/presidents-of-the-united-states-of-america-pen-a-pokemon-song/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/presidents-of-the-united-states-of-america-pen-a-pokemon-song/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/presidents-of-the-united-states-of-america-pen-a-pokemon-song/#comments It's ever-so-rare that the things we love on this planet converge as expertly as they do for the song posted after the jump, so let's all take a second to really soak in this moment. Ahhhh. Feels good, right? Once you're done savoring, go listen to the Presidents of the United States of America's latest track, "Can't Stop (Catchin' 'Em All)," a tribute to some of the new collectible creatures in Pokémon Black and White.

Sure, it may lack the deeply funky bassline of a "Dune Buggy," or the raw, face-destroying rock of a "Love Everybody" -- but it's still the Presidents, dishing out tips on the latest installment in the Pokémon franchise. It is delight, in its purest form.

Continue reading Presidents of the United States of America pen a Pokemon song

JoystiqPresidents of the United States of America pen a Pokemon song originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Mar 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banddsgame-freakmusicnintendoPokemon-Black-and-Whitepresidents-of-the-united-states-of-americathe-pokemon-companytheme-songMon, 07 Mar 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White capture top UK sales spots]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/pokemon-black-and-white-capture-top-uk-sales-spots/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/pokemon-black-and-white-capture-top-uk-sales-spots/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/07/pokemon-black-and-white-capture-top-uk-sales-spots/#comments Pokemon White and Black fulfilled their destinies by capturing the top spots on Chart-Track's UK sales chart this past week. The latest iteration on the franchise became "the biggest ever launch of Pokemon games across one weekend in the UK," according to Chart-Track. The White version outsold Black by 13,000 copies. Combining the sibling title's sales, it is the third largest Nintendo launch in the UK, behind Wii Fit and Mario Kart Wii.

The third place belt went to Fight Night Champion, which would have premiered at the top of the charts this week if it hadn't been for those pesky (and adorable) poke-critters. Bulletstorm slipped from second to fourth, while Killzone 3 went from first to fifth.

Other noteworthy debuts on the chart are PC titles Dawn of War 2: Retribution and Rift, at 17 and 19, respectively. Of course, these are only box retail figures -- the magical (and likely larger) digital distribution sales numbers are in the hands of the respective platform holders. Check out the UK top ten after the break.

Continue reading Pokemon Black and White capture top UK sales spots

JoystiqPokemon Black and White capture top UK sales spots originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Mar 2011 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britainchart-trackchart-track-weeklydsmicrosoftnintendoplaystationPokemon-Black-and-Whiteps3ukwiixboxMon, 07 Mar 2011 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White review: This year's model]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/pokemon-black-and-white-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/pokemon-black-and-white-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/pokemon-black-and-white-review/#comments Pokémon, I love you -- but you're bringing me down.

Don't let either half of that opening assertion cheapen the significance of the other. More than any previous installment in the franchise, Pokémon Black and White taps into the visceral core of what makes the series so exceptional. The compulsion for all-catching is as strong as ever, the new roster is the best generational addition to the universal Pokécatalog, and the capacity for building, customizing and perfecting your team is the deepest its ever been.

However, for all its iterative improvements, Pokémon Black and White still feel like this year's model. The framework the game is built around, while sturdy, is the very same skeleton which propped up literally every other generation that came before it. After five generations, this duplication has lost its nostalgic charm -- now it just seems like the series' creators possess a frankly befuddling hostility towards change.

Gallery: Pokemon Black and White (DS)

Continue reading Pokemon Black and White review: This year's model

JoystiqPokemon Black and White review: This year's model originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freaknintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whitethe-pokemon-companyFri, 04 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White launch event coming to Nintendo World Store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/26/pokemon-black-and-white-launch-event-coming-to-nintendo-world-st/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/26/pokemon-black-and-white-launch-event-coming-to-nintendo-world-st/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/26/pokemon-black-and-white-launch-event-coming-to-nintendo-world-st/#comments You should probably clear your schedule on the afternoon of Saturday, March 5 -- unless, of course, you want to miss out on the coolest* party of the year. On the eve of the launch of Pokémon Black and White, Nintendo's hosting a launch shindig at its Nintendo World Store in New York City's Rockefeller Center. Attendees can check out original Pokémon artwork, and can collect stamps on a "passport," which they can exchange for a limited edition Poké-T-shirt. We're guessing the passport allows you to travel to cooltown**.

Attendees can also go to a special download station to grab a Liberty Pass, a key item which lets players catch the new legendary Pokémon Victini -- which you'll also be able to do from home over the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.

* - least cool
** - anywhere but cooltown

Continue reading Pokemon Black and White launch event coming to Nintendo World Store

JoystiqPokemon Black and White launch event coming to Nintendo World Store originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Feb 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freaklaunchnintendonintendo-worldnintendo-world-storePokemon-Black-and-WhiteThe-Pokemon-CompanySat, 26 Feb 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White DSi bundles sneak in before 3DS release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/pokemon-black-and-white-dsi-bundles-sneak-in-before-3ds-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/pokemon-black-and-white-dsi-bundles-sneak-in-before-3ds-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/pokemon-black-and-white-dsi-bundles-sneak-in-before-3ds-release/#commentsEven with the 3DS launching in March, Nintendo is offering some incentive to buy a regular DSi instead (or additionally, of course): Pokémon pictures! The company announced limited-edition Pokémon Black and White DSi bundles, coming to North America on March 6.

The bundle includes either a black or white DSi with an etched image of the Legendary Pokémon Reshiram and Zekrom, a matching copy of the new game, and an exclusive DSi case. It'll cost $179.99, about $5 less than buying the game and a DSi separately. A small relief, we're sure, to the Pokémon superfans and/or DS collectors who feel compelled to buy both.

JoystiqPokemon Black and White DSi bundles sneak in before 3DS release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundledsdsinintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhiteWed, 23 Feb 2011 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamestop distributing Celebi before Pokemon Black and White launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/16/gamestop-distributing-celebi-before-pokemon-black-and-white-laun/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/16/gamestop-distributing-celebi-before-pokemon-black-and-white-laun/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/16/gamestop-distributing-celebi-before-pokemon-black-and-white-laun/#comments Jeez, between all the different Pokémon promotional events held over the past few months, it seems plausible that we could "catch em' all" before Pokémon Black and White even hits store shelves. Here's another one for the pile: From February 21 through March 6, owners of one of the existing DS Pokémon games can stop by their local Gamestop and download Celebi, the time-traveling Pokémon for (eventual) use in Black or White. The little guy will even come with a bonus move that's not accessible through normal training in the game. Also? He's adorable.

There's extra incentive for you to grab Celebi from Gamestop while you can: transferring him over to your save file in Pokémon Black or White is the only way that you can access the new, shape-shifting Pokémon Zorua. You don't want to be the only kid on your block that doesn't have a Zorua, do you? Just think of all the smug looks you'd get from your neighbors.

Continue reading Gamestop distributing Celebi before Pokemon Black and White launch

JoystiqGamestop distributing Celebi before Pokemon Black and White launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Feb 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebidsgamestopnintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhitepromotionWed, 16 Feb 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Trainer Challenge brings the trading card game online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/pokemon-trainer-challenge-brings-the-trading-card-game-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/pokemon-trainer-challenge-brings-the-trading-card-game-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/pokemon-trainer-challenge-brings-the-trading-card-game-online/#comments The problem with trading card games is that you have to have friends around to play them -- and, a lot of times, that means you actually have to leave the house. In a video game, roaming the world in search of Pokémon may be relatively safe, but out in the real world, there are certain dangers that need to be taken into consideration. Bears, diseases and cosplayers are all real threats.

That's why we're excited about the Pokémon Trainer Challenge, a new Flash version of the TCG coming to the internet near you this April. Using three pre-constructed decks, you'll be able to face off against 12 virtual trainers across three leagues in the online game, hopefully learning enough to keep you from embarrassing yourself at the next Saffron City Social.

Pokémon Trainer Challenge will require a free Pokémon Trainer Club account to play. You can find more details on Pokemon.com.

Gallery: Pokemon Trainer Challenge

JoystiqPokemon Trainer Challenge brings the trading card game online originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsflash-gamenintendopcpokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhitePokemon-Trainer-ChallengetcgThe-Pokemon-Companytrading-card-gameTue, 15 Feb 2011 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black & White preview: a clear-cut sequel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/pokemon-black-and-white-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/pokemon-black-and-white-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/pokemon-black-and-white-preview/#comments Given its focus on cute, cuddly animals, it seems odd to describe the Pokémon series as hardcore, yet generation after generation of games have created an elite group of dedicated players who have "caught 'em all." They know every stat, every attribute and every breeding strategy needed to edge out competitors. As the divide between hardcore and casual Pokémon players grew, it seemed Nintendo had reason enough to press the reset button.

"A new player is starting on the same footing as a Pokémon expert," a Nintendo representative told me while pitching the latest games in the series, Black & White. At first glance, it's just another Pokémon game: you go around the 2D world collecting monsters to use in RPG-styled battles. This time, however, you won't encounter the Pokémon you've come to know, grow and love. There's an all-new set of 150+ critters to collect, meaning everyone will have to learn a brand new Pokedex to stay competitive.

"That's a good idea," I retort. "But if there aren't any new elemental types, then won't people just apply the same strategies as before?" Yes, the Nintendo representative had encountered a wild Pokemon nerd, ready for battle.

Gallery: Pokemon Black and White (DS)

Continue reading Pokemon Black & White preview: a clear-cut sequel

JoystiqPokemon Black & White preview: a clear-cut sequel originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freaknintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhiteFri, 11 Feb 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Grab Pokemon Black or White at launch, get new legendary monster Victini]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/grab-pokemon-black-or-white-at-launch-get-new-legendary-monster/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/grab-pokemon-black-or-white-at-launch-get-new-legendary-monster/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/03/grab-pokemon-black-or-white-at-launch-get-new-legendary-monster/#comments You probably won't win every single battle in Pokémon Black and White, but that doesn't mean you can't always lay claim to victory. Anyone who grabs one of the twin titles before April 10 will be able to obtain a "Liberty Pass" using the game's Wi-Fi connect mode -- a special item that allows the player to catch the newest legendary monster Victini, who, in some circles, is known as "the victory Pokémon."

Victini's got access to a range of Fire and Psychic abilities, including one that lets you boost the accuracy of all your team's Pokémon in a particular fight -- making it indispensable for the series' new Triple Battle systems. PLUS: it's adorable.

JoystiqGrab Pokemon Black or White at launch, get new legendary monster Victini originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freaknintendoPokemon-Black-and-WhiteThe-Pokemon-CompanyvictiniThu, 03 Feb 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Layton's Unwound Future and Kirby's Epic Yarn join Nintendo's million-seller club]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/layton-unwound-future-and-kirby-epic-yarn-million-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/layton-unwound-future-and-kirby-epic-yarn-million-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/layton-unwound-future-and-kirby-epic-yarn-million-sold/#comments In a supplemental document to Nintendo's latest quarterly earnings report, the company noted its million-sellers during the past three fiscal quarters (April-Dec. 2010), with Professor Layton and pink power-puff Kirby standing out from the games featuring keywords: Mario, Pokémon and Wii. Through the end of 2010, DS puzzler Professor Layton and the Unwound Future had reached global sales of 1.9 million units since its September 12 debut, while Dragon Quest IX just squeezed into the million-seller club with 1.02 million copies sold (since July 11).

The Wii-llion seller list for the nine-month period featured several Mario and Wii [Fill in Blank] games, but Donkey Kong Country Returns was also a popular pick, moving a bananas 4.21 million units since its late-November release. Additionally, Kirby's Epic Yarn managed to stitch up sales of 1.4 million units in two and a half months at retail.

Sitting on top of DS and Wii million-sellers for the period were Pokemon Black/White with 5.3 million copies sold (and it's not even out in North America and Europe yet!) and Super Mario Galaxy 2 with a hearty 6.2 million units in mushroom-fueled sales, respectively.

JoystiqLayton's Unwound Future and Kirby's Epic Yarn join Nintendo's million-seller club originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Donkey-Kong-Country-ReturnsDragon-Quest-IXdskirbys-epic-yarnmillion-sellersnintendopokemon-black-and-whiteProfessor-Layton-and-the-Unwound-Futuresalessuper-mario-galaxy-2wiiFri, 28 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White getting PC connectivity, exclusive web content]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/pokemon-black-and-white-getting-pc-connectivity-exclusive-web-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/pokemon-black-and-white-getting-pc-connectivity-exclusive-web-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/pokemon-black-and-white-getting-pc-connectivity-exclusive-web-c/#comments Though Pokémon Black and White won't include the neat little Pokéwalker peripheral included in last year's HeartGold and SoulSilver, it won't be without alternative methods for monster collection. Nintendo has announced the Pokémon Global Link, a website launching this spring (shortly after the games' release) which will allow players to sync their save files to an online profile, giving them access to a wide range of tools with which to network with their fellow trainers.

The site will let players keep track of their online battle statistics, assigning them a worldwide ranking which may grant them eligibility to participate in live regional, national and global tournaments. The site will also play host to mini-games which will let players collect Pokémon and items which they can transfer back to their Black and White cartridges. One such game lets players sync a monster from their game to the website, and explore their dreams online -- dreams that are ripe with transferable collectables. Pokémon Inception, then? Don't mind if we do.

Continue reading Pokemon Black and White getting PC connectivity, exclusive web content

JoystiqPokemon Black and White getting PC connectivity, exclusive web content originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Jan 2011 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendopcPokemon-Black-and-WhiteThu, 27 Jan 2011 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White's 'triple battles' will change everything]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/pokemon-black-and-whites-triple-battles-will-change-everythin/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/pokemon-black-and-whites-triple-battles-will-change-everythin/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/pokemon-black-and-whites-triple-battles-will-change-everythin/#commentsCompared to the usual, minor changes between Pokémon games, the ability to bring three pokémon into a fight in Black or White is nothing short of revolutionary. Perhaps this trailer will help you wrap your mind around the chaos of six pokémon out at the same time!

Continue reading Pokemon Black and White's 'triple battles' will change everything

JoystiqPokemon Black and White's 'triple battles' will change everything originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Jan 2011 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendoPokemon-Black-and-WhiteWed, 26 Jan 2011 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White reach five million sales in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/pokemon-black-and-white-reach-five-million-sales-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/pokemon-black-and-white-reach-five-million-sales-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/pokemon-black-and-white-reach-five-million-sales-in-japan/#comments The two latest additions to the neverending Pokémon franchise managed to move an incredible 2.6 million units during their first two days on Japanese store shelves -- but how have Black and White fared since then? Unsurprisingly, they've done just fine; according to sales statistics from Enterbrain, this week saw the pair's combined sales reach 5,036,724 units.

Pokémon Black and White aren't the first games to reach this impressive mark -- in fact, four other DS games have managed to reach five million sales in the past. However, no other DS title has managed to reach five million quite as quickly as Black and White, which have only been available for 17 weeks. We guess that just goes to prove that, for some people "Gotta Catch 'Em All" isn't just a catchphrase, it's a way of life.

JoystiqPokemon Black and White reach five million sales in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Jan 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freakjapannintendoPokemon-Black-and-Whitesalesthe-pokemon-companyWed, 12 Jan 2011 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon to invade your local mall around 'Black and White' release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/pokemon-to-invade-your-local-mall-around-black-and-white-relea/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/pokemon-to-invade-your-local-mall-around-black-and-white-relea/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/pokemon-to-invade-your-local-mall-around-black-and-white-relea/#comments We knew this day would come -- we just knew it. Fortunately, we've had a contingency plan for years now, on the off chance that wild Pokémon should ever infest our local shopping mall. If you'll turn your attention to Diagram 6C in your Poké-Survival Guide, you'll see where we've marked the locations most safe from these powerful menaces. For instance, that Hot Topic? It's really well-reinforced against some of the larger ones, and the music should scare away any monsters with unobstructed ears. The Orange Julius kiosk? That's what we like to call a "kill zone." Do not, under any circumstances, wander into the Orange Julius.

Oh, wait -- you mean that Nintendo is just demoing Pokémon Black and White at various malls around the games' release date, March 6, a full list and schedule for which is posted after the jump? We suppose that makes a lot more sense.

You'd better stay away from that Orange Julius, though. Just to be safe.

Continue reading Pokemon to invade your local mall around 'Black and White' release

JoystiqPokemon to invade your local mall around 'Black and White' release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Jan 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freakmallmarketingnintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whitethe-pokemon-companyWed, 12 Jan 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UK catches Pokemon Black and White March 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/uk-catches-pokemon-black-and-white-march-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/uk-catches-pokemon-black-and-white-march-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/uk-catches-pokemon-black-and-white-march-4/#commentsUK Pokemon trainers will gain a crucial tactical advantage over their American counterparts on March 4, when Pokemon Black and White launch in that country, two days ahead of the North American release. This date comes courtesy of Official Nintendo Magazine.

To take full advantage of this ... advantage, we've got just the plan for you: first, buy the game. Then, get on the first plane to the USA and train your team the entire time. Then, wait outside of the GameStop until the first customers get their copies. Challenge them to battles on the way out, and bask in the assured victory until the police get here. Then your return travel will be booked for you (when you're deported)!

JoystiqUK catches Pokemon Black and White March 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendoPokemon-Black-and-Whiteq1-2011release-dateukMon, 10 Jan 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: GameStop to distribute Celebi for Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/rumor-gamestop-to-distribute-celebi-for-pokemon-heartgold-and-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/rumor-gamestop-to-distribute-celebi-for-pokemon-heartgold-and-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/03/rumor-gamestop-to-distribute-celebi-for-pokemon-heartgold-and-s/#commentsThere are already plenty of upcoming opportunities for you to go to stores and download new Pokemon for HeartGold, SoulSilver, Diamond and Pearl. According to reports claimed to originate from GameStop employees with access to the promotional materials for those events, there is still one more that has yet to be announced. In the underworld of retail Pokemon data distribution events, news travels fast.

According to the reports, GameStop will offer Celebi downloads from February 27 through March 7. This is noteworthy enough, as Celebi is exceptionally rare, but this particular Celebi activates a time-travel event when encountered in HeartGold and SoulSilver, which can't be accessed any other way. Having this Celebi and transferring it into the upcoming Pokemon Black or White will also allow you to get a Zorua, one of the new Pokemon in that game.

So, in conclusion, we just wrote a whole bunch about a Pokemon distribution event that hasn't been announced. Didn't expect to do that today.

JoystiqRumor: GameStop to distribute Celebi for Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebidsgamestopnintendopokemon-black-and-whitePokemon-Heart-GoldMon, 03 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP is Japan's best-selling console of 2010, Pokemon Black/White the top game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/psp-is-japans-best-selling-console-of-2010-pokemon-black-white/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/psp-is-japans-best-selling-console-of-2010-pokemon-black-white/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/psp-is-japans-best-selling-console-of-2010-pokemon-black-white/#commentsYou could probably guess the two best-selling games in Japan this year: Pokemon Black and White and Monster Hunter Portable 3rd. The DS monster collecting adventure and the PSP monster murder adventure sold 4,734,064 and 3,163,750 units respectively, according to a year-end report by ASCII. Monster Hunter managed to finish in second place after less than one month of sales -- it was released on December 1.

It should come as no surprise, given the blockbuster status of those two, that the DS and PSP were the best-selling hardware platforms in Japan as well. The PSP was the only console to show growth in sales versus 2009, selling 600,000 more consoles than the previous year. 2,719,544 DS systems were sold in 2010, down a million from 2009. Find out how other systems did, and see the rest of the top ten best-selling games, after the break.

Continue reading PSP is Japan's best-selling console of 2010, Pokemon Black/White the top game

JoystiqPSP is Japan's best-selling console of 2010, Pokemon Black/White the top game originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Dec 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asciidsjapanjapanese-hardware-salesmicrosoftMonster-Hunter-Portable-3rdnintendoplaystationpokemon-black-and-whiteps3pspsonyxboxWed, 29 Dec 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White dated March 6 for North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/27/pokemon-black-and-white-dated-march-6-for-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/27/pokemon-black-and-white-dated-march-6-for-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/27/pokemon-black-and-white-dated-march-6-for-north-america/#comments Nintendo's encapsulated warrior creatures return to North America in a new adventure with Pokémon Black and Pokemon White on March 6, 2011. The two versions of the game continue the tradition of being slightly different (this time, slightly more than usual) with different locations, creatures and seasons available. The Black version will offer the Pokémon Reshiram and a setting called Black City, while White will contain the "lush, green area" of White Forest and let you capture Zekrom.

The game will also feature seasons this time around, with certain areas only becoming accessible during specific times of the year and several creatures -- of the 150 new ones in the game -- appearing more frequently at specific periods. Nintendo of America has made no mention of those classy Pokémon Black and White DSis with regards to a stateside release.

JoystiqPokemon Black and White dated March 6 for North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Dec 2010 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendoPokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whiterelease-dateMon, 27 Dec 2010 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty: Black Ops debuts at #1 (and #7) in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/26/call-of-duty-black-ops-debuts-at-1-and-7-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/26/call-of-duty-black-ops-debuts-at-1-and-7-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/26/call-of-duty-black-ops-debuts-at-1-and-7-in-japan/#comments Call of Duty: Black Ops launched in Japan last week, and though it wasn't the major cultural phenomenon it was here, it managed to top the Media Create sales charts for the week of Nov. 15-21. Well, the PS3 version did, anyway, with 128,922 copies sold. The Xbox 360 version came in at #7 with 30,279 copies. This is just the subtitled release -- it'll get another sales boost in December when the dubbed version arrives.

Other success stories in Japan last week include the sequel to Fossil Fighters on DS at #2, Pokemon Black/White at #3, Super Mario All-Stars Limited Edition at #4, and Tactics Ogre on PSP at #5. Black Ops trumped Colors last week, as Sonic raced to a #33 finish on Wii and #49 on DS.

JoystiqCall of Duty: Black Ops debuts at #1 (and #7) in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Call-of-Duty-Black-Opsfossil-fightersfossil-fighters-championsjapanmedia-createpokemon-black-and-whitesalessquare-enixsuper-mario-all-stars-limited-editionFri, 26 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One of life's great mysteries revealed: How Pokemon get made]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/one-of-lifes-great-mysteries-revealed-how-pokemon-get-made/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/one-of-lifes-great-mysteries-revealed-how-pokemon-get-made/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/04/one-of-lifes-great-mysteries-revealed-how-pokemon-get-made/#comments Where do Pokémon come from? No, we're not talking about the means of Poké-reproduction -- a subject matter typically skirted around in the core game franchise (do those eggs just magically appear?) -- rather, who designs, names and provides statistics for each of the game's 649 creatures? A handful of Game Freak designers recently outlined the process to 1UP -- and it's not quite as unfeelingly scientific as you might think.

"There's about 17 people in our design team, and generally what happens is they each draw their own Pokémon and then they get discussed over group meetings," Game Freak co-founder Ken Sugimori explained. He added that, for Pokémon Black and White, the lead designers focused on the game's pair of legendary monsters, while the younger staffers created the three new starters. Considering the special places we have in our hearts for the Squirtles and Charmanders of the series, that's quite a bit of pressure for the newbies.

Check out the full interview for more insight into the the miracle of Poké-life.

JoystiqOne of life's great mysteries revealed: How Pokemon get made originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsgame-freaknintendoPokemon-Black-and-WhiteThe-Pokemon-CompanyThu, 04 Nov 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo painted red in first-half fiscal year results]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/nintendo-painted-red-in-first-half-fiscal-year-results/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/nintendo-painted-red-in-first-half-fiscal-year-results/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/28/nintendo-painted-red-in-first-half-fiscal-year-results/#comments We'll be the first to admit it's nigh impossible to grasp the nuances of just what in the world is going on with the global economy, but things are clearly up you-know-whose creek without a paddle when Nintendo reports a ... loss?! Sure, earnings were seriously down for Nintendo during the same six-month period last year (April-September), but even then, as other companies suffered tremendous hits, Nintendo enjoyed ¥69.5 billion in profit (which was roughly $766 million by the rate of exchange a year ago).

The problem is that the yen has appreciated wildly against the dollar since that time -- what was $766 million a year ago, would be more like $850 million today. In and of itself, that kind of appreciation might look spectacular, except 81.4 percent of Nintendo's sales have been overseas during the current fiscal year. When the yen is this strong, earnings on Japanese exports (sold with importers' currencies) are dashed on their way back to Japan (where they are converted back to yen). According to Nintendo's first-half report (April-Sept. 2010), "foreign currencies generated exchange losses totaling 62.1 billion yen," and, in turn, the company suffered net losses of ¥2 billion (about $24.6 million) for the period.

Keep in mind, this loss comes after selling 4.07 million copies of PokeĢmon Black and White since September 18 (in Japan alone); 5.1 million units of Super Mario Galaxy 2; and a million-plus Wii Party games. Worldwide, DS software sales totaled 54.84 million units, while Wii games accounted for 65.21 million units sold in the first-half of the fiscal year.

As for hardware, the various DS models combined to move 6.69 million units (including 2.26 million DSi and 3.21 million DSi XLs), as Wii racked up another 4.97 million units sold during the period. And did you hear? The new red Wii and DSi XL are going to be released next month to celebrate ... uh, the 25th anniversary of Super Mario Bros., of course!

JoystiqNintendo painted red in first-half fiscal year results originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Oct 2010 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsdsidsi-xlearningsfinancialfy-2011hardwarenintendonintendo-co-ltdPokemon-Black-and-Whiteq1q2salessoftwareSuper-Mario-Galaxy-2wiiwii-partyThu, 28 Oct 2010 11:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon offering wonderful Pikachu DSi charge stand this December]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/amazon-offering-wonderful-pikachu-dsi-charge-stand-this-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/amazon-offering-wonderful-pikachu-dsi-charge-stand-this-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/amazon-offering-wonderful-pikachu-dsi-charge-stand-this-december/#commentsFiled under: , ,

This Pikachu DSi charge stand looks absolutely delighted to be sending electricity to a DSi. We feel the same way about bringing you the news that you'll be able to buy one of these for yourself in December. An Amazon listing shows that the charger, which was released in Japan this September, will be available in America through the online retailer on December 23.

It's designed to work with both the DSi and DSi XL, and will sell on Amazon for $40. Sure, that sounds like a lot, but does your current DSi charger make you smile?

JoystiqAmazon offering wonderful Pikachu DSi charge stand this December originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 21:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessorieschargerdsdsidsi-xlnintendonintendo-dsipikachupokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhiteFri, 08 Oct 2010 21:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Black and White get limited edition DSis in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/pokemon-black-and-white-get-limited-edition-dsis-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/pokemon-black-and-white-get-limited-edition-dsis-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/pokemon-black-and-white-get-limited-edition-dsis-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you've got a bizarre hang-up about playing video games on consoles that don't have Pokémon branded upon their hulls, you'll be pleased to learn that you'll soon be able to add the DSi to your list of allowed devices. On November 20, Japanese store shelves will be stocked with limited edition Pokémon Black and White DSis, each of which come with a copy of the appropriately hued monster-catching title.

Each handheld prominently features Black and White's main Legendaries, Reshiram and Zekrom -- a premium for which shoppers will have to pay 19,800 yen (a tad more than the DSi's standard 15,000 yen price point). Is it worth the extra cash? We're not sure, but as far as special edition Pokémon-branded handhelds go, this one's kind of ... classy? Yeah, classy.

JoystiqPokemon Black and White get limited edition DSis in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsdsigame-freakjapannintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-Whitethe-pokemon-companyThu, 07 Oct 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gotta build 'em all: Pokemon in LEGO form]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/gotta-build-em-all-pokemon-in-lego-form/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/gotta-build-em-all-pokemon-in-lego-form/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/gotta-build-em-all-pokemon-in-lego-form/#comments Why spend hours scouring grassy areas in search of Pokemon when you could simply build your own out of LEGOs? That's what Filip Johannes Felberg did. Nothing says "I'm awesome" like a LEGO-ified Geodude -- unless, like, that's printed on your T-Shirt or something.

JoystiqGotta build 'em all: Pokemon in LEGO form originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendopokemonPokemon-Black-and-WhitewiiTue, 05 Oct 2010 05:00:00 EST