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[Brownie Brown changes its name to 1-Up Studio]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/02/brownie-brown-changes-its-name-to-1-up-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/02/brownie-brown-changes-its-name-to-1-up-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/02/brownie-brown-changes-its-name-to-1-up-studio/#comments Nintendo subsidiary Brownie Brown is changing its name to 1-Up Studio, the company recently announced on its soon-to-be defunct site.

The developer is known for its hand in crafting games such as Mother 3 and Super Mario 3D Land, as well as its help with Level-5's Professor Layton and the Last Specter. Along with the name change, the studio also announced a new Mother game for North America... oh, it didn't? Well that's too bad.

JoystiqBrownie Brown changes its name to 1-Up Studio originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Feb 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1up-studiobrownie-brownmother-3name-changenintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dSat, 02 Feb 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Get a free 3DS eShop game when you buy an XL in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/05/psa-get-a-free-3ds-eshop-game-when-you-buy-an-xl-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/05/psa-get-a-free-3ds-eshop-game-when-you-buy-an-xl-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/05/psa-get-a-free-3ds-eshop-game-when-you-buy-an-xl-in-europe/#comments If you live across the pond and have heavily considered bringing a 3DS XL into your life, you might want to do so within the next 10 days. New 3DS XL units registered with the Nintendo Network between now and Tuesday, January 15 can download any one of the following five eShop titles for free: Okay, granted, the list kind of peters out there at the end, but a free digital copy of Super Mario 3D Land or Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask is still a pretty sweet deal. Once received, download codes must be redeemed by January 31, at which point they'll magically transform into a pumpkin in your inbox.

JoystiqPSA: Get a free 3DS eShop game when you buy an XL in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3DS-XLeshopeuropenintendoprofessor-laytonprofessor-layton-and-the-miracle-maskPSAsuper-mario-3d-landUKunited-kingdomSat, 05 Jan 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[3DS holiday bundle includes red 3DS, pre-loaded Mario 3D Land]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/19/3ds-holiday-bundle-includes-red-3ds-pre-loaded-mario-3d-land/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/19/3ds-holiday-bundle-includes-red-3ds-pre-loaded-mario-3d-land/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/19/3ds-holiday-bundle-includes-red-3ds-pre-loaded-mario-3d-land/#comments 3DS Black Friday bundleNintendo isn't making too big a deal out of Black Friday. Its special holiday 3DS bundle, out Nov. 23, is almost exactly identical to the Mario 3DS bundle from last year! It comes with the same Flame Red 3DS, and the same game (the truly worthwhile Super Mario 3D Land).

The only differences are that Mario is now pre-installed rather than bundled as a cartridge, and the MSRP is $170 instead of $200. Those are both good changes. However, it seems incredibly, conspicuously odd to put this 3DS bundle forward as the holiday deal now that the 3DS XL is out - as is a newer Mario game.

Continue reading 3DS holiday bundle includes red 3DS, pre-loaded Mario 3D Land

Joystiq3DS holiday bundle includes red 3DS, pre-loaded Mario 3D Land originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsblack-friday-2012bundleflame-redholiday-2012nintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dMon, 19 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pikachu 3DS XL in UK Dec. 7, headlines trio of holiday handhelds]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/pikachu-3ds-xl-in-uk-dec-7-headlines-trio-of-holiday-handhelds/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/pikachu-3ds-xl-in-uk-dec-7-headlines-trio-of-holiday-handhelds/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/13/pikachu-3ds-xl-in-uk-dec-7-headlines-trio-of-holiday-handhelds/#comments Quite possibly the most huggable handheld ever, the Pikachu 3DS XL will leave its current Japanese prison for the lush, bountiful lands of the UK on December 7.

A pair of white 3DS XLs bundled with games will go on sale in the UK later this month. A white 3DS XL with a pre-installed copy of Mario Kart 7 will be available on November 16, while a white 3DS XL with Super Mario 3D Land will go on sale on November 30.

Also, have fun trying to un-see Pikachu's nipples.

JoystiqPikachu 3DS XL in UK Dec. 7, headlines trio of holiday handhelds originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsmario-kart-7nintendopikachupokemonsuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dukTue, 13 Nov 2012 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario 3D Land, Mario Kart 7, Zelda: OoT 3D and Starfox 64 3D now available on EU 3DS eShop [Update: NA too!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/super-mario-3d-land-mario-kart-7-zelda-oot-and-starfox-64-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/super-mario-3d-land-mario-kart-7-zelda-oot-and-starfox-64-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/super-mario-3d-land-mario-kart-7-zelda-oot-and-starfox-64-3d/#comments Four more 3DS games will now be available as digitally distributed titles, at least if you live in Europe. Super Mario 3D Land, Mario Kart 7, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D and Starfox 64 3D should all be available on the European 3DS eShop momentarily, Nintendo announced during today's Nintendo Direct presentation.

Update: All four of these games will also be available on the North American eShop on Thursday, October 18, which is two weeks from today. The convenience of not having to go to a store will run you a smooth $40.

JoystiqSuper Mario 3D Land, Mario Kart 7, Zelda: OoT 3D and Starfox 64 3D now available on EU 3DS eShop [Update: NA too!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Oct 2012 14:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseshopeuropemario-kart-7nintendonow-availablerelease-datestar-fox-64-3dsuper-mario-3d-landthe-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-time-3dThu, 04 Oct 2012 14:34:00 EST<![CDATA[New 3DS colors & bundles in Japan, eShop gets digital re-releases]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/03/new-3ds-colors-and-bundles-in-japan-eshop-gets-digital-re-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/03/new-3ds-colors-and-bundles-in-japan-eshop-gets-digital-re-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/03/new-3ds-colors-and-bundles-in-japan-eshop-gets-digital-re-release/#comments 3DS gets new colors & bundles in Japan, eShop gets digital 3DS rereleasesNintendo announced three new 3DS XL bundles for Japan, with two special case designs for New Super Mario Bros. 2 and Animal Crossing 3DS. The company also announced the upcoming arrival of eight previously released 3DS games on the Japanese eShop.

In an initial Nintendo Direct broadcast, Nintendo showcased 3DS XL bundles for Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate, NSMB 2, and Animal Crossing 3DS. The Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate bundle comes with an all-black 3DS XL, and launches in Japan on November 1. The NSMB 2 bundle, pictured above, comes with a very flash red design, dotted with light red images from the Mario universe. The Animal Crossing 3DS design is similar, but with polka dot images against a white background, a bit 'Tutti Frutti' if you ask us. The Animal Crossing 3DS bundle arrives in Japan on November 8, with the NSMB 2 one a week after. All three bundles come with digital copies of the game.

That brings us nicely onto the second Nintendo Direct broadcast, which announced eight digital versions of previously released 3DS games for the eShop. Those games don't include the three in the 3DS XL bundles above (cunning, Mr Nintendo), but they do include Ocarina of Time 3D, Pilotwings Resort, Star Fox 64 3D, Super Mario 3D Land, Mario Kart 7, Mario Tennis Open, Hana to Ikimorio Rittai Zukan (click if you're curious), and Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games. The octet hit the Japanese eShop on November 1.

Gallery: Nintendo 3DS bundles (October 2012)

JoystiqNew 3DS colors & bundles in Japan, eShop gets digital re-releases originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsanimal-crossing-3dscapcomeShopjapanmario-and-sonic-at-the-london-2012-olympic-gamesmario-kart-7mario-tennis-openmonster-hunter-3-ultimatenew-super-mario-bros-2nintendoocarina-of-timepilotwings-resortstar-fox-64-3dsuper-mario-3d-landWed, 03 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with the Nintendo 3DS XL]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/13/hands-on-with-the-nintendo-3ds-xl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/13/hands-on-with-the-nintendo-3ds-xl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/13/hands-on-with-the-nintendo-3ds-xl/#comments Handson with the 3DS XLIf initial impressions are any indication at all, those who held out for a bigger version of Nintendo's 3DS will find the wait worth it. We just got to play with the Nintendo 3DS XL here at Comic-Con in San Diego, and its big screen really impressed us. The picture is clearer and brighter than the current 3DS (at least in the dark ballroom where we played Super Mario 3D Land), and the 3D is much better. There is still a sweet spot to get your eyes in, but once you're there, the much larger screen makes it easier to focus in, and the 3D just seems more effective as a result.

There aren't any significant differences to the rest of the device. The control stick, buttons, and other controls all feel like the 3DS. The larger unit might be a little unwieldy for small hands, but the stick and buttons are close enough to the edges that pushing them around shouldn't be an issue. On the whole, the device is more rounded off than the previous system. From the top, while closed, it looks more like a clamshell than a rectangle.

The larger size makes it a very sturdy device indeed. Sitting on the table in front of you, it's almost like a small laptop. The Start, Select, Home, and Power buttons have all lost their white touches, so that top screen just dominates the device. Nintendo's making a serious statement here, and it's that bigger should be better.

We're hesitant to get too hyperbolic about the 3DS XL until we're able to really run it through its paces, but yes, on first touch, it's gorgeous. This is not a device designed to fit in your pocket, though it certainly seems like the best way to play Nintendo's growing 3DS library. Below, you can see a gallery of hands-on pictures (including a PSP comparison -- that's the only device we had in the bag at the time).

The 3DS XL arrives on August 19, so if you were planning to buy a 3DS you might want to wait until then.

Gallery: 3DS XL Hands-on at Comic-Con 2012

JoystiqHands-on with the Nintendo 3DS XL originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jul 2012 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscomic-concomic-con-2012hands-onnintendosdcc-2012super-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dFri, 13 Jul 2012 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[3DS has sold over 5 million in US to date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/3ds-has-sold-over-5-million-in-us-to-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/3ds-has-sold-over-5-million-in-us-to-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/3ds-has-sold-over-5-million-in-us-to-date/#comments 3DS hits 5 million units soldThe 3DS has surpassed five million units sold in the United States, Nintendo announced today. Contributing to that new milestone: over 155,000 3DS systems were sold in the US in the month of June, according to NPD data cited by Nintendo.

In addition, Nintendo moved "more than 150,000 units of the Nintendo DS family and nearly 95,000 Wii consoles." In terms of 3DS software, Nintendo revealed new life-to-date totals for three million-sellers: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D (over 1 million), Super Mario 3D Land (2.1 million), and Mario Kart 7 (1.75 million). If there's a conclusion that can be drawn from this, it's that not enough people bought Kid Icarus Uprising.

Continue reading 3DS has sold over 5 million in US to date

Joystiq3DS has sold over 5 million in US to date originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsmario-kart-7nintendonpdsalessuper-mario-3d-landthe-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-time-3dThu, 12 Jul 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo launching 3DS in Korea on April 28]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/nintendo-launching-3ds-in-korea-on-april-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/nintendo-launching-3ds-in-korea-on-april-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/nintendo-launching-3ds-in-korea-on-april-28/#comments Korea is finally getting the 3DS. Blue, pink and black models are launching in the country on April 28 for 220,000 won ($193), Nintendo has revealed.

The launch lineup will consist of three games: Tekken 3D Prime Edition, Super Mario 3D Land and Nicola Magazine Model Stylish Audition 2. Later in the year, Nintendo plans to offer Mario Kart 7, Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games, Nintendogs + Cats and the two N64 remakes, Star Fox 64 3D and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D.

JoystiqNintendo launching 3DS in Korea on April 28 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dskoreanintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dThu, 19 Apr 2012 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Long Mario never lived: Super Mario 3D Land director was totally joking]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/long-mario-never-lived-super-mario-3d-land-director-was-totally/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/long-mario-never-lived-super-mario-3d-land-director-was-totally/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/long-mario-never-lived-super-mario-3d-land-director-was-totally/#comments Koichi Hayashida opened his hilarious, energetic GDC speech with a look at some content that was considered for inclusion in Super Mario 3D Land, but didn't make it into the final game -- ideas like "Huge Mario," "Long Mario" (who is "sort of scary!") and a shell-riding "Pro Skater Mario."

But were these ideas that really almost made it into the game? "No, not at all," Hayashida told me with a laugh during a subsequent interview. Hayashida then went on to explain his use of weird jokes and general high-energy style.

"Just for this presentation," he said (quietly), "I decided to turn my hilarity meter up to maximum for an American audience. If I was addressing a Japanese audience, of course, I would be much more subdued." In fact, "I think if I tried to give that same presentation for a Japanese audience, they might not even be able to follow it." Hayashida expressed surprise that the GDC crowd offered spontaneous applause for the corny, out-of-place "D. Mario" option that appeared in every multiple-choice question he offered on stage. "I was really surprised, because that's the sort of thing that Japanese audiences might have just sat there not clapping for."

JoystiqLong Mario never lived: Super Mario 3D Land director was totally joking originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsgdc-2012koichi-hayashidanintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dFri, 16 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hayashida: Super Mario 3D Land is a gateway game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/hayashida-super-mario-3d-land-is-a-gateway-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/hayashida-super-mario-3d-land-is-a-gateway-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/hayashida-super-mario-3d-land-is-a-gateway-game/#comments Super Mario 3D Land has a curious structure: it's very easy throughout the first eight worlds, and then it surprises the player with a "special" set of eight additional worlds, which test players with insane time limits, ever-pursuing "Shadow Marios" and every other trick EAD Tokyo could think of. So why backload the challenge?

"We thought of setting the difficulty level about as low as we could go realistically for this game because we saw this as an entry point to the Mario games for a lot of people," director Koichi Hayashida told me during GDC. "So the way we see it is someone would pick up Super Mario 3D Land and play that, and then maybe they would move onto Super Mario Galaxy or Super Mario Sunshine or Super Mario 64 after that."

There's an even more personal motivation. "Speaking as a Mario game fan personally, I should admit that I had trouble trying to clear the first two Super Mario Bros. games," Hayashida said. "So for me, I wanted to create a game that I could at the very least clear. Even if it meant using Assist Blocks, I was able to clear this one, of course."

Hayashida and his team designed a game that allowed "lots of people" to see an ending, which plays at the end of world 8 before the Special Worlds appear. "Even though there's still a little bit of good challenge in worlds 7 and 8, people have at least the option to adjust the difficulty for what feels appropriate to them. If that means they need to challenge themselves to find all the star medals in a certain levels, they can do that. But we're not forcing people to do something at a very high level of difficulty all the way through." At least, not until the Special Worlds.

JoystiqHayashida: Super Mario 3D Land is a gateway game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsgdc-2012koichi-hayashidanintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dFri, 16 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NPD's top 25 includes at least eight 3DS games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/npds-top-25-includes-at-least-eight-3ds-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/npds-top-25-includes-at-least-eight-3ds-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/09/npds-top-25-includes-at-least-eight-3ds-games/#comments No 3DS games sold enough in the US to place in the top ten last month, according to NPD data. But 3DS sales were happening just under the surface, with many 3DS games making it into the (undisclosed) top 25 games of February.

The NPD told Joystiq that "some examples" of the 3DS titles that made the list include Skylanders: Spyro's Adventure, Mario Kart 7, Super Mario 3D Land, FIFA Soccer, Lego Star Wars 3: The Clone Wars, Lego Pirates of the Caribbean, Resident Evil: Revelations, and Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games -- the last two on that list being February releases.

That's ... a significant portion of the top 25. It's also evidence of a reasonably engaged 3DS install base, and therefore stiff competition for the PS Vita, which came out in February. The Vita's Uncharted: Golden Abyss placed somewhere in the top 20 (at least in retail; Vita games also have digital sales not charted by NPD).

JoystiqNPD's top 25 includes at least eight 3DS games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsfifa-soccerlego-pirates-of-the-caribbean-the-video-gamelego-star-wars-3-the-clone-warsmario-kart-7nintendonpdresident-evil-revelationssalesskylanders-spyros-adventuresuper-mario-3d-landFri, 09 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Long Mario is long: early Super Mario 3D Land concepts that didn't make it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/long-mario-is-long-early-super-mario-3d-land-concepts-that-didn/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/long-mario-is-long-early-super-mario-3d-land-concepts-that-didn/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/long-mario-is-long-early-super-mario-3d-land-concepts-that-didn/#comments Super Mario 3D Land director Koichi Hayashida opened his GDC talk with some concepts that didn't make it into the final game. They were ... wacky. The ideas included a "Huge Mario," who is so huge that you can only see the bottom half of his body on the screen, and a long Mario: "He has long arms and long legs, sort of scary," Hayashi said, in English. "I'd like to give this idea to Luigi's Mansion 2 team."

Hayashida also showed simple animated drawings of a "Pro Skater Mario" riding a Koopa shell on a half pipe, and a cockroach that would appear on the top screen, forcing you to quickly shut the 3DS to crush it. And finally, "You can change Peach's face ... to your girlfriend's face!"

He then asked what we expected to see in a 2012 Mario game, showing some of these concepts again. "If you are here today, please don't write 'the new Mario game will be pro skater Mario with cockroaches!'" Hayashida quickly interjected. "We might get in trouble."

JoystiqLong Mario is long: early Super Mario 3D Land concepts that didn't make it originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsgdc-2012koichi-hayashidanintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dThu, 08 Mar 2012 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo 3DS sales hit 4.5 million units in first year, outperforms original DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/nintendo-3ds-sales-hit-4-5-million-units-in-first-year-outperfo/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/nintendo-3ds-sales-hit-4-5-million-units-in-first-year-outperfo/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/nintendo-3ds-sales-hit-4-5-million-units-in-first-year-outperfo/#comments
Nintendo announced this morning that its 3DS handheld will have sold 4.5 million units in the States when it celebrates its first birthday on March 27, 2011. Initial sales were slow for the glasses-free 3D device, but picked up the pace following last year's price cut.

The company predicted late last year that the 3DS would beat first-year sales of the original DS and that held true. The original DS sold 2.3 million units by its first anniversary on November 21, 2004, with 5 million units of software sold in those 12 months and $540 million in revenue. By comparison, the 3DS sell hit 4.5 million units, with over 9 million units of software sold and $1.2 billion in revenue. Of course, the software catalog of the 3DS, when adding original DS titles, is immense in comparison to the DS offerings in its first year.

"With a massive lineup of first- and third-party games and more on the way, a budding library of entertainment options and an engaged and growing installed base, Nintendo 3DS has an incredibly bright future," said Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime. "We're just getting started but this platform is built for the long haul."

The 3DS passed the 4 million unit mark in Japan and the US this past December. Despite the continued success of the portable, which does show a dedicated gaming device still has a place in this world, Nintendo is still expected to announce its first loss in 30 years at the end of its fiscal year.

JoystiqNintendo 3DS sales hit 4.5 million units in first year, outperforms original DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dTue, 06 Mar 2012 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario 3D Land, Resident Evil Revelations talks at GDC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/super-mario-3d-land-resident-evil-revelations-talks-at-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/super-mario-3d-land-resident-evil-revelations-talks-at-gdc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/11/super-mario-3d-land-resident-evil-revelations-talks-at-gdc/#comments Super Mario 3D Land director Koichi Hayashida will present a postmortem talk at GDC entitled "Thinking in 3D: The Development of Super Mario 3D Land." Attendees will be required to cross a pit of moving blocks while being chased by evil purple versions of themselves in order to attend.

Or, what will actually happen is that Hayashida will discuss developing for 3D devices, and "share development philosophies learned from Mario creator and legendary Nintendo designer, Shigeru Miyamoto."

Another 3DS-centric talk is "Revealing the Truth About Resident Evil Revelations," presented by producer Masachika Kawata. And Cave COO Mikio Watanabe will discuss "Retro and Japanese Social Games on Smartphones," bringing attention to the company's recent endeavors in porting crazy shmups to iOS.

JoystiqSuper Mario 3D Land, Resident Evil Revelations talks at GDC originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 03:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cavegdc-2012masachika-kawatamikio-watanaberesident-evil-revelationssuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dSat, 11 Feb 2012 03:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Skyrim takes top honors at NY Video Game Critics Circle Awards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/skyrim-takes-top-honors-at-ny-video-game-critics-circle-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/skyrim-takes-top-honors-at-ny-video-game-critics-circle-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/skyrim-takes-top-honors-at-ny-video-game-critics-circle-awards/#comments You'd have to be a fus-ro-dummy to think that Skyrim would be through with receiving accolades. At last night's New York Video Game Critics Circle Awards, the Bethesda Game Studios-developed RPG took home yet one more, earning the "Big Apple Award for Best Game" as decided by a cabal of NY-based game journos from various outlets.

Other winners include two apiece for Bastion and Portal 2, portable love for Super Mario 3D Land and Superbrothers: Sword and Sworcery EP, and explosive nods to both Crysis 2 and Saints Row: The Third. Harold Goldberg's "All Your Base Are Belong To Us" took home the "Algonquin Roundtable Award for Best Book" and Sony's "Michael" commercial won the "Mad Men Award," mysteriously beating out Robin Williams' luxurious beard. Frankly, we were baffled. The full list of winners can be found below the break.

Continue reading Skyrim takes top honors at NY Video Game Critics Circle Awards

JoystiqSkyrim takes top honors at NY Video Game Critics Circle Awards originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsall-your-base-are-belong-to-usbastionbethesdabethesda-game-studiosbethesda-softworkscantor-film-centercrysis-2elder-scrolls-5game-centerharold-goldbergiosipadiphonemicrosoftmobilenew-york-citynew-york-game-critics-circlenew-york-game-critics-circle-awardsnew-york-game-critics-circle-awards-2012new-york-universitynintendonyu-game-centerpcplaystationportal-2ps3saints-row-the-thirdskyrimsuper-mario-3d-landsuperbrothers-sword-and-sworcery-epthe-elder-scrolls-v-skyrimxboxFri, 03 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Iwata throws around the idea of paid Super Mario 3D Land, Mario Kart DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/iwata-throws-around-the-idea-of-paid-super-mario-3d-land-mario/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/iwata-throws-around-the-idea-of-paid-super-mario-3d-land-mario/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/iwata-throws-around-the-idea-of-paid-super-mario-3d-land-mario/#comments
Nintendo head honcho Satoru Iwata hinted at the possibility of paid DLC for two of its 3DS titles, Super Mario 3D Land and Mario Kart 7, at a recent investor meeting. Speaking in terms of hardware and software lifespans, Iwata suggested (hypothetically) Nintendo could benefit from the addition of paid DLC to both Super Mario 3D Land and Mario Kart 7:

"What if we could provide add-on content through the network?" Iwata asked, positing a solution to the problem of players growing tired of the games they've purchased. "As I referred to before, for example, this is the idea of supplying new stages to Super Mario users who want to play the game more but have completed the game and lost interest in the existing stages.

"This will not only give us new profits but will lengthen the life of a product, in that it will never be out of fashion and can keep attracting public attention as long as many people play it." DLC functionality was added to the 3DS with the last firmware update, and will first be used in a retail title in Japan with Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy.

JoystiqIwata throws around the idea of paid Super Mario 3D Land, Mario Kart DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsDLCiwatamario-kart-7nintendopaid-dlcsuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dTue, 31 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario 3D Land breaks 5 million sold, Skyward Sword at 3.4 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/super-mario-3d-land-breaks-5-million-sold-skyward-sword-at-3-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/super-mario-3d-land-breaks-5-million-sold-skyward-sword-at-3-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/super-mario-3d-land-breaks-5-million-sold-skyward-sword-at-3-4/#comments Nintendo elaborated on the "strong sales" for The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword and Super Mario 3D Land today, in its list of million-selling titles for the last nine months. The Wii adventure sold 3.42 million units worldwide, of which 3.04 million took place outside of Japan.

That makes it the best selling Wii game for the period, right? Nope! That's Mario Kart Wii, which sold 4.91 million copies between April and December, for a life-to-date total of 31.91 million copies. New releases Kirby's Return to Dreamland and Wii Play Motion squeaked into the million-seller club with 1.21 million and 1.12 million respectively.

On 3DS, Super Mario 3D Land sold 5.03 million in total -- 3.68 million "overseas" and 1.36 million in Japan. Mario Kart 7 sold almost as many, at 4.54 million. Even the good old DS managed to have some million-selling new releases: Professor Layton and the Last Specter (1.19 million, all outside of Japan) and Kirby Mass Attack (1.01 million).

JoystiqSuper Mario 3D Land breaks 5 million sold, Skyward Sword at 3.4 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdskirbys-return-to-dreamlandLegend-of-Zelda-2010nintendoprofessor-layton-and-the-last-spectersalessuper-mario-3d-landThe-Legend-of-Zelda-Skyward-SwordwiiFri, 27 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster Hunter Tri-G tops 1 million sold in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/monster-hunter-tri-g-tops-1-million-sold-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/monster-hunter-tri-g-tops-1-million-sold-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/monster-hunter-tri-g-tops-1-million-sold-in-japan/#comments You'd think that Japan would be fresh out of monsters at this point, considering that they've been ruthlessly hunting them without rest since 2004, but that's not the case. In fact, it seems the monster birth rate is so high over there, that over a million blademasters and gunners have been recruited for the latest hunt.

Monster Hunter Tri-G has sold 1.08 million copies as of January 8, according to Andriasang, making it the first third-party release (and third 3DS title overall) to break the million-sold milestone in Japan. It is distinct from some other million-selling 3DS titles (Mario Kart 7, Super Mario 3D Land) in that it does not feature an Italian plumber, but rather focuses on monsters and the hunting thereof. Wait, isn't Mario technically a monster hunter as well? Maybe there is a common thread here.

JoystiqMonster Hunter Tri-G tops 1 million sold in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscapcomjapanmario-kart-7monster-huntermonster-hunter-tri-gnintendosalessuper-mario-3d-landWed, 11 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Platinum's Kamiya hoping to announce his own game in 2012, Fumito Ueda loves Portal 2, and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/platinums-kamiya-hoping-to-announce-his-own-game-in-2012-fumit/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/platinums-kamiya-hoping-to-announce-his-own-game-in-2012-fumit/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/platinums-kamiya-hoping-to-announce-his-own-game-in-2012-fumit/#comments Since Bayonetta's late 2009/early 2010 debut, director Hideki Kamiya has gone relatively quiet. And while he remains that way for now, it seems we may see some movement from him this year, as he told 4Gamer in its big "looking back on 2011" Japanese developer feature (via Andriasang) that he "would like to announce a new game and make a comeback on the game scene and be known as more than just some guy who posts on Twitter," as his hope for 2012. Bizarrely, he didn't name a single favorite game from the last year, choosing instead to say "nothing in particular" struck his fancy, while Nintendo's eShop "3D Classics" were his favorite entertainment content last year.

The feature also features a cadre of Square Enix devs, who hilariously all named Skryim their favorite game of the year (with the exception of a single producer), while the no longer Sony-affiliated Last Guardian creative lead Fumito Ueda put Portal 2 at the top of his list. He was also quick to point out that "The Last Guardian is in development, with the staff hoping to meet expectations even though with each game they taste the difficulties of creation." Okay then!

Catherine and Dark Souls also got nods from a variety of devs, as did Super Mario 3D Land. And hey, you know where we stand.

JoystiqPlatinum's Kamiya hoping to announce his own game in 2012, Fumito Ueda loves Portal 2, and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>catherinedark-soulsfumito-uedahideki-kamiyaplatinumplatinum-gamesportal-2square-enixsuper-mario-3d-landFri, 06 Jan 2012 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[3DS past 4 million in US, Mario sells another 2 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/3ds-past-4-million-in-us-mario-sells-another-2-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/3ds-past-4-million-in-us-mario-sells-another-2-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/3ds-past-4-million-in-us-mario-sells-another-2-million/#comments All things considered, 2011 was a pretty solid year for the 3DS. Despite an incredibly slow adoption rate at launch and the resultant corporate turmoil, buyers on the fence were eventually persuaded by a massive price drop and 3D remakes of yesteryear's classics. By the end of 2011, Nintendo had sold "more than 4 million" of its stereoscopic wunderkind to US consumers, as well as 1 million units each of Super Mario 3D Land and Mario Kart 7.

Nintendo had only sold 830,000-ish 3DS units as of last July, a full 4 months into the life of the product. By the end of October, however, that number had inflated to around 1.08 million units thanks to August's price drop, with November pushing another 795,000 units into American pockets. For this to add up, the holiday shopping season would have needed to move at least 2.1 million more 3DSes, which doesn't seem like that much of a stretch considering the abundance of bundles at retailers.

Joystiq3DS past 4 million in US, Mario sells another 2 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds4-millionmariomario-kart-7nintendosalessales-figuressuper-mario-3d-landUS-salesTue, 03 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: JC's picks of 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/best-of-the-rest-jcs-picks-of-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/best-of-the-rest-jcs-picks-of-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/02/best-of-the-rest-jcs-picks-of-2011/#comments Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective
If you were interested in this game, but didn't buy it on DS because of faith that an iOS version would follow, I'm holding you personally responsible for the foundering sales of my favorite game of 2011. Live with that.

This came out in January, and I still have yet to experience anything so fresh, so unique, as Shu Takumi's side-scrolling adventure/puzzle game. Its comically unpredictable (but predictably comical) storyline cascades toward a twist that shouldn't work, its gameplay turns everyday objects like ceiling fans and globes into methods of both traversal and interaction, as you observe and influence the lives of a cast of bizarre characters from within their phone lines, headphones and wrecking balls.

I can't mention this game without mentioning its beyond perfect animation, which gave a jazzy flourish to every movement of every character. The act of serving chicken never seemed so stylish.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: JC's picks of 2011

JoystiqBest of the Rest: JC's picks of 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaliens-infestationbest-of-the-rest-2011bloodrayne-betrayalchild-of-edendsEl-Shaddai-Ascension-of-the-Metatronghost-trick-phantom-detectivegroove-coasteriosiphonemicrosoftmobilenintendoplaystationprofessor-layton-and-the-last-specterps3pushmosuper-mario-3d-landxboxMon, 02 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[3DS sales exceed 4M in Japan, Mario sells over 2M games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/3ds-sales-exceed-4m-in-japan-mario-sells-over-2m-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/3ds-sales-exceed-4m-in-japan-mario-sells-over-2m-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/3ds-sales-exceed-4m-in-japan-mario-sells-over-2m-games/#comments
More 3DS sales figures coming right at you: According to data from publisher Enterbrain, the 3DS has now exceeded sales of four million units in Japan (as expected), wrapping up the week leading into Christmas with 510,629 systems sold. That's an increase of 39 percent over the last week, which also saw the 3DS outselling the newer and more expensive PlayStation Vita by about 13 percent.

Mario achieved an accompanying milestone (according to Famitsu), hawking a million copies each of Mario Kart 7 and Super Mario 3D Land. The portly plumber's latest adventures are reportedly the first 3DS games to sell over 1 million copies in Japan. The most recent third-party game to come close to that target is likely Monster Hunter Tri-G, which has already shipped a million copies.

Joystiq3DS sales exceed 4M in Japan, Mario sells over 2M games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsjapanmario-kart-7nintendosalessuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dMon, 26 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii, Zelda, and Super Mario 3D Land set records on Black Friday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/wii-zelda-and-super-mario-3d-land-set-records-on-black-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/wii-zelda-and-super-mario-3d-land-set-records-on-black-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/wii-zelda-and-super-mario-3d-land-set-records-on-black-friday/#comments Breaking, obvious news: Mario and Zelda games are popular.

All right, it gets more interesting upon getting into specifics: Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime told USA Today that Super Mario 3D Land has become the fastest-selling portable Mario game ever, moving over half a million copies since its November 13 launch. As a result, 3DS system sales have spiked, as well. According to info provided by Nintendo, system sales are up 325% for the week of November 20 over the previous week, and sales that week were up 49% over the week of November 6.

Fils-Aime told USA Today that the surge in 3DS interest allowed the system to cross the DS's first-year sales threshold (2.37 million units) in eight months, even before Mario Kart 7's release.

In crazier news, the Wii had its best Black Friday ever, with Nintendo reporting over 500,000 systems sold just on Black Friday, including early store openings the night before. The combination of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword -- which is itself the fastest-selling Zelda in history, at 535,000 copies -- and rock-bottom prices helped propel the system to its record-breaking feat.

See, Nintendo, there's at least enough life left in the system for Rhythm Heaven Fever to be worth releasing! If you didn't get that subtext, we'll lay it out: give us Rhythm Heaven.

JoystiqWii, Zelda, and Super Mario 3D Land set records on Black Friday originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsblack-friday-2011nintendosalessuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dthe-legend-of-zelda-skyward-swordwiiMon, 28 Nov 2011 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Editorial: Lay of the 3D Land]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/editorial-lay-of-the-3d-land/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/editorial-lay-of-the-3d-land/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/editorial-lay-of-the-3d-land/#commentsEric Caoili loved the stereoscopic effect in Super Mario 3D Land. In this article, he explains why it was so good -- and why it shouldn't be a priority for other 3DS games.
Since the 3DS's launch, many gamers and reviewers have complained about the lack of titles that use the handheld's stereoscopic 3D features in a meaningful way capable of affecting or improving gameplay -- new experiences unavailable elsewhere, something to justify early adopters' expensive purchases.

Some unaccommodating people would act as if 3DS games failing to meet this standard aren't worth their attention. The gimmick of an image that really looks like a dog's tongue is coming out of the screen to lick their face is not enough, not if the novelty ends there. "These puppy kisses mean nothing to me," they will sneer. "Take him away and drown this contemptible creature in a river."

If there's a title that will please those demanding more depth to 3DS releases, as well as those puppy drowners, it's Super Mario 3D Land. This platforming masterpiece is the Avatar of 3DS games, proof that 3D in this medium isn't crap when it's thoughtfully planned and executed, evidence that it's worth the (potential) literal headaches because you just might see something you've never seen before.

Continue reading Editorial: Lay of the 3D Land

JoystiqEditorial: Lay of the 3D Land originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3dseditorialnintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dThu, 24 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Toys R Us Cyber Monday: Free Skylanders with Mario 3DS bundle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/toys-r-us-cyber-monday-free-skylanders-with-mario-3ds-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/toys-r-us-cyber-monday-free-skylanders-with-mario-3ds-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/toys-r-us-cyber-monday-free-skylanders-with-mario-3ds-bundle/#comments Appealing to those of us who prefer not to risk physical harm in order to secure some sweet deals, Toys R Us has announced its plans for Cyber Monday (AKA the Monday following Black Friday) and the ensuing "Cyber Week." For starters, the retailer will actually begin its online discounts beginning on Sunday, November 27 at 6pm Eastern.

There are only a handful of gaming deals, though they are fairly substantial. First up for grabs, a free game, controller or headset ($59.99 or less) with the purchase of a $300 4GB Xbox 360 Kinect bundle. Also, Toys R Us will offer a "buy one, get one 60 percent off" discount on "hundreds of video game titles," though the press release doesn't specify which titles are included. Finally, starting on Monday at 8am Eastern, those who pick up the $200 3DS Mario bundle will get a free Skylanders starter pack (normally $70).

As the "cyber" implies, these deals will only be available through ToysRUs.com, though store pick up is available on certain items. Shipping is also free on orders over $49.

Continue reading Toys R Us Cyber Monday: Free Skylanders with Mario 3DS bundle

JoystiqToys R Us Cyber Monday: Free Skylanders with Mario 3DS bundle originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsblack-friday-2011cyber-monday-2011kinectmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3super-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dtoys-r-usxboxMon, 21 Nov 2011 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's Mario and Zelda 3DS bundles hit the US November 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/nintendos-mario-and-zelda-3ds-bundles-hit-the-us-november-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/nintendos-mario-and-zelda-3ds-bundles-hit-the-us-november-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/nintendos-mario-and-zelda-3ds-bundles-hit-the-us-november-24/#comments You've seen Nintendo's new 3DS bundles in a few Black Friday ads already, but the company made it official today, detailing the two special holiday packages it plans to release on Thanksgiving Day -- and giving us another opportunity to stare at that Zelda system.

The Cosmo Black bundle contains a special Cosmo Black 3DS decorated with Zelda imagery, along with a copy of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D. The Flame Red bundle contains a plain old Flame Red 3DS with Super Mario 3D Land.

Both are priced at $199.99, but you'll be able to find them cheaper at certain retailers.

Continue reading Nintendo's Mario and Zelda 3DS bundles hit the US November 24

JoystiqNintendo's Mario and Zelda 3DS bundles hit the US November 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsblack-friday-2011bundlenintendosuper-mario-3d-landthe-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-timethe-legend-of-zelda-ocarina-of-time-3dMon, 21 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario 3D Land tops Japanese charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/13/super-mario-3d-land-tops-japanese-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/13/super-mario-3d-land-tops-japanese-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/13/super-mario-3d-land-tops-japanese-charts/#comments Americans love Mario and friends as much as anyone else, but it really says something about Japan's devotion to their Italian mascot when his new 3DS game manages to outsell both Uncharted 3 and Battlefield 3 by a fairly massive gap.

For the week ending November 6, Super Mario 3D Land sold 343,492 units in Japan, outselling its closest competition by over 200,000 units, earning the No. 1 slot on Media Create's sales charts. Uncharted 3 came in second with 124,989 units sold, and Battlefield 3 slotted in right beneath it at 123,379, scientifically proving that the Tanooki Suit is a powerful psychoactive monetary aphrodisiac.

[Image credit: Nintendo]

JoystiqSuper Mario 3D Land tops Japanese charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsjapanjapanesemarionintendosalessuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dtanookitanooki-suitSun, 13 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario 3D Land review: Depths worth plumbing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/super-mario-3d-land-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/super-mario-3d-land-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/09/super-mario-3d-land-review/#comments For the early portions of Super Mario 3D Land, I was under the dual misconceptions that I didn't like it very much, and I wasn't doing the review. Both of those assumptions proved false after I found myself playing through about half the game in a single, nonstop session. It became clear that I liked it much more than I thought I did -- and I had inadvertently gotten well ahead of our assigned reviewer during my Mario fugue state, hence the duty shifted to me.

I also spent that first half of the game thinking this was the easiest Mario platformer I'd ever played. That turned out not to be the case at all.

Gallery: Super Mario 3D Land (10/20/11)

Continue reading Super Mario 3D Land review: Depths worth plumbing

JoystiqSuper Mario 3D Land review: Depths worth plumbing originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsead-tokyonintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dWed, 09 Nov 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[US copies of Super Mario 3D Land also include firmware update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/us-copies-of-super-mario-3d-land-also-include-firmware-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/us-copies-of-super-mario-3d-land-also-include-firmware-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/04/us-copies-of-super-mario-3d-land-also-include-firmware-update/#comments Yesterday, we found out that the Japanese version of Super Mario 3D Land packed a mandatory 3DS firmware update, which enhanced security (of course) but also streamlined the friends list, adding a new "Join Game" option.

Today, upon the arrival of our US review copy, we discovered that the same firmware update is loaded on that version, as well, and offers the same amenities. You can see the "Join Game" button at the top of the screenshot above. It's faded out because the game I had running at the time doesn't have multiplayer.

There's more 3DS updating to come, as a more comprehensive update is due this month to add video recording features, along with updated StreetPass games, DLC functionality, and other eShop improvements.

JoystiqUS copies of Super Mario 3D Land also include firmware update originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsfirmwarenintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dFri, 04 Nov 2011 13:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario 3D Land comes with new 3DS firmware]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/super-mario-3d-land-comes-with-new-3ds-firmware/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/super-mario-3d-land-comes-with-new-3ds-firmware/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/super-mario-3d-land-comes-with-new-3ds-firmware/#comments Japanese Super Mario 3D Land carts have started dropping into 3DS slots, and early reports from the country indicate that the game comes packed with brand new firmware for the system. What does the firmware update do, you wonder? Apparently, it makes the portable's friends list a bit more functional -- a button will now allow you to join a friend's game in progress. It seems that the update isn't an early release of the upcoming November one, which brings a variety of features.

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsfirmwarefirmware-updatefriends-listnintendonintendo-eadsuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dupdateThu, 03 Nov 2011 11:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Yes, of course Shigeru Miyamoto is involved in Super Mario 3D Land]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/yes-of-course-shigeru-miyamoto-is-involved-in-super-mario-3d-la/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/yes-of-course-shigeru-miyamoto-is-involved-in-super-mario-3d-la/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/26/yes-of-course-shigeru-miyamoto-is-involved-in-super-mario-3d-la/#comments Like with previous Mario titles, the little plumber's creator is once again involved in Nintendo's next project, Super Mario 3D Land. In a recent Famitsu interview (translated by 1UP), Shigeru Miyamoto explains his role as "general producer" on the title, saying that he was uninvolved until about halfway through the project. "I kept my distance from the project at first, but became more deeply involved midway -- I don't think it'd be satisfying as a Mario game to everyone unless I made myself known on the little details," he says.

Miyamoto further details his work on the project, specifically citing his work as helping to "fine-tune the numbers" behind things like Mario's iconic jump or run speed. He also points out that Mario's upcoming 3DS game draws from the world of Super Mario Bros. 3, while the "New" Super Mario Bros. titles drew from Super Mario World's foundation. Neat!

"The New Mario series was an effort to get back to the core of it," he adds. "And this game is kind of an in-between -- it's 3D, but it's a Mario that lots of people can play." To that end, Super Mario 3D Land will feature a hint system akin to other recent Nintendo first-party titles, which Miyamoto teases briefly. But you wouldn't need such a thing, right?

JoystiqYes, of course Shigeru Miyamoto is involved in Super Mario 3D Land originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnintendoshigeru-miyamotosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-bros-3super-mario-land-3dsuper-mario-worldWed, 26 Oct 2011 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Land 3D media is overpowering]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/super-mario-land-3d-media-is-overpowering/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/super-mario-land-3d-media-is-overpowering/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/super-mario-land-3d-media-is-overpowering/#comments
If you can watch the latest Super Mario 3D Land trailer without being overcome by waves of profound, heart-swelling joy and nostalgia, then congratulations. You are now prepared for a career in politics.

Gallery: Super Mario 3D Land (10/20/11)

JoystiqSuper Mario Land 3D media is overpowering originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 05:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dFri, 21 Oct 2011 05:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario 3D Land preview: New tricks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/08/super-mario-3d-land-preview-new-tricks/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/08/super-mario-3d-land-preview-new-tricks/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/08/super-mario-3d-land-preview-new-tricks/#comments I imagine the pre-production on Super Mario 3D Land was some kind of Frankenstein experiment, where a group of developers in full-on white lab coats picked apart previous Super Mario titles for their choicest features to create Super Mario 3D Land. It's really an amalgamation of previous efforts, though it doesn't deter the game from establishing an identity of its own.

Gallery: Super Mario 3D Land (10/6/11)

Continue reading Super Mario 3D Land preview: New tricks

JoystiqSuper Mario 3D Land preview: New tricks originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 08 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsnintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dSat, 08 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario 3D Land features SpotPass item trading, 'Assist Blocks']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/24/super-mario-3d-land-features-spotpass-item-trading-assist-bloc/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/24/super-mario-3d-land-features-spotpass-item-trading-assist-bloc/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/24/super-mario-3d-land-features-spotpass-item-trading-assist-bloc/#comments While there's no word on an implementation of the "Super Guide" feature in Super Mario 3D Land, a Japanese retail display box reveals the presence of "Assist Blocks." These winged blocks will act sort of as a Super Guide analogue, dispensing helpful items to players having a hard time. They even visually refer to Super Mario Bros. 3's "P-Wing," an item that allowed players to bypass whole stages.

The box also reveals a SpotPass feature for the 3DS platformer. You'll be able to exchange items with other players through the 3DS's internet connection -- which is good, if you're doing your best to avoid the (completely imaginary) shame of relying on the Assist Blocks.

JoystiqSuper Mario 3D Land features SpotPass item trading, 'Assist Blocks' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Sep 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsassist-blockjapannintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dSat, 24 Sep 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kirby? Mario? Zelda? It's a Nintendo gameplay video-splosion!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/kirby-mario-zelda-its-a-nintendo-gameplay-video-splosion/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/kirby-mario-zelda-its-a-nintendo-gameplay-video-splosion/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/kirby-mario-zelda-its-a-nintendo-gameplay-video-splosion/#comments
OK, so last night's Nintendo TGS keynote may not have had a mountain of relevant info for us stateside. But it had a lot of moving images we've not seen before, and we'll take that entertainment over boring old information any day of the week.

We've got all the good parts just after the break with new screens from Super Mario 3D Land and Kirby's Return to Dreamland, plus video of those two, and clips of Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword and Mario Kart 7.

Can human beings overdose on joy? We pray that they can not.

Continue reading Kirby? Mario? Zelda? It's a Nintendo gameplay video-splosion!

JoystiqKirby? Mario? Zelda? It's a Nintendo gameplay video-splosion! originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dskirbys-return-to-dreamlandnintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dtgs-2011The-Legend-of-Zelda-Skyward-SwordwiiTue, 13 Sep 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario 3D Land, Mario Kart 7, and more dated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/super-mario-3d-land-mario-kart-7-and-more-dated/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/super-mario-3d-land-mario-kart-7-and-more-dated/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/13/super-mario-3d-land-mario-kart-7-and-more-dated/#comments Not content with the mini-flood of 3DS news out of last night's Nintendo 3DS Conference? Nintendo of America has some exciting news tailored to American tastes, including release dates for its two biggest upcoming 2011 releases.

Super Mario 3D Land will travel into America (and into your screen, thanks to the 3D effect) on November 13; it'll be followed by automotive adventure Mario Kart 7 on December 4, which now has a gyro-controlled first-person mode. You know, for the real feeling of being atop a tiny go-kart driving into a banana peel. Check out a trailer after the break.

Additionally, the Wii's Mario/Dragon Quest board game, Fortune Street, is teaching us Slime economics on December 5, and the DS Fossil Fighters sequel is coming November 14. What we won't see this year is Paper Mario for 3DS -- that, along with Luigi's Mansion 2, is slated for 2012.

Gallery: Super Mario 3D Land (9/13/11)

Continue reading Super Mario 3D Land, Mario Kart 7, and more dated

JoystiqSuper Mario 3D Land, Mario Kart 7, and more dated originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 10:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsfortune-streetmario-kart-7nintendorelease-datesuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landsuper-mario-land-3dwiiTue, 13 Sep 2011 10:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's Comic-Con lounge stocked with Mario, Zelda, Rhythm Heaven, and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/18/nintendos-comic-con-lounge-stocked-with-mario-zelda-rhythm-he/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/18/nintendos-comic-con-lounge-stocked-with-mario-zelda-rhythm-he/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/18/nintendos-comic-con-lounge-stocked-with-mario-zelda-rhythm-he/#comments To keep you from ever having to look at an actual comic at Comic-Con, another game company has announced its lineup of playable demos. You'll be able to play a great deal of Nintendo's recent and upcoming 3DS lineup, most of its Wii lineup ... and Dragon Quest Monsters Joker 2 on DS.

Nintendo will have both a normal booth at Comic-Con, #5135, and a "Nintendo Gaming Lounge" at the adjacent Marriott Marquis & Marina hotel. This "Gaming Lounge" will feature playable demos of Super Mario, Kid Icarus Uprising, Mario Kart, Metal Gear Solid Snake Eater 3D, Shinobi, and more 3DS games. In addition, you'll be able to try The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword, Rhythm Heaven, Fortune Street, and more on Wii.

Bring your DS and/or 3DS when you go. From 4-6 pm on July 21, Nintendo will host a Pokémon Black/White meetup. The Lounge will also have a giant Pokédex 3D AR marker of Reshiram for you to take commemorative pictures with, and a "gallery" of oversized AR Cards. There will even be downloadable maps for Dragon Quest IX!

JoystiqNintendo's Comic-Con lounge stocked with Mario, Zelda, Rhythm Heaven, and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jul 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscomic-con-2011dsfortune-streetkid-icarus-uprisingLegend-of-Zelda-2010mario-kart-3dsmario-kart-7nintendopokedex-3drhythm-heavenrhythm-heaven-feversuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landThe-Legend-of-Zelda-Skyward-SwordwiiMon, 18 Jul 2011 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario preview: 3D plus 2.5D plus Super Mario Bros. 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/12/super-mario-preview-3d-plus-2-5d-plus-super-mario-bros-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/12/super-mario-preview-3d-plus-2-5d-plus-super-mario-bros-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/12/super-mario-preview-3d-plus-2-5d-plus-super-mario-bros-3/#comments The new Super Mario for 3DS is an interesting new take on 3D Mario gameplay ... in that it largely restricts the level design to 2D. Or, at least, 2.5D. There are plenty of sections where you move in and out of the screen, sure, but for the most part, you're following corridor-style paths from left to right. Where previous 3D Mario games were about exploring spaces, Super Mario is in general about navigating to the end of the level. It's a mix of the styles of classic and 3D Mario.

It also makes more of an effort to integrate the 3D effect into gameplay. But the parts that don't really deal with that are a lot more effective than the ones that do.

Gallery: Super Mario 3D (E3 2011)

Continue reading Super Mario preview: 3D plus 2.5D plus Super Mario Bros. 3

JoystiqSuper Mario preview: 3D plus 2.5D plus Super Mario Bros. 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Jun 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdse3-2011nintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landSun, 12 Jun 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario 3D trailer is just the best]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/super-mario-3d-trailer-is-just-the-best/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/super-mario-3d-trailer-is-just-the-best/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/super-mario-3d-trailer-is-just-the-best/#comments Keep close track of your pants, dear reader, because any lapse in attention could result in them being charmed clean off of you by this trailer for Super Mario 3D. A 3D leaf transforming Mario into a 3D Tanooki? Can the human heart explode from joy?

Continue reading Super Mario 3D trailer is just the best

JoystiqSuper Mario 3D trailer is just the best originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsnintendosuper-mario-3dsuper-mario-3d-landTue, 07 Jun 2011 20:45:00 EST