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[Nintendo Selects budget line adds Super Mario Galaxy, Punch-Out!!, and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/nintendo-selects-budget-line-adds-super-mario-galaxy-punch-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/nintendo-selects-budget-line-adds-super-mario-galaxy-punch-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/16/nintendo-selects-budget-line-adds-super-mario-galaxy-punch-out/#comments Faced with drooping sales and waning retail interest in its platforms, Nintendo's been exercising its price-cutting muscle with some regularity. Before the unexpected 3DS price cut, there was the $50 Wii price cut that also included a bundled copy of Mario Kart Wii and the Wii Wheel accessory. At the same time, Nintendo introduced the budget-priced Nintendo Selects game lineup and, on August 28, it's dropping four more games to the $19.99 price point.

Super Paper Mario, Mario Strikers Charged, Punch-Out!!, and Super Mario Galaxy join The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Animal Crossing: City Folk, Mario Super Sluggers, and Wii Sports in the bargain aisle. While it's hard to argue with the new, lower price, our secret, inner box-art snob wonders, "Is a measly $30 savings worth the shame of having that on the game shelf?" A look at the art for the latest Nintendo Selects selections is after the break.

Continue reading Nintendo Selects budget line adds Super Mario Galaxy, Punch-Out!!, and more

JoystiqNintendo Selects budget line adds Super Mario Galaxy, Punch-Out!!, and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-strikers-chargednintendonintendo-selectspunch-outpunch-out-wiiSuper-Mario-Galaxysuper-paper-mariowiiTue, 16 Aug 2011 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Galaxy 2 passes 1 million sold in US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/super-mario-galaxy-2-passes-1-million-sold-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/super-mario-galaxy-2-passes-1-million-sold-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/super-mario-galaxy-2-passes-1-million-sold-in-us/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Super Mario Galaxy 2 was the best-selling non-cowboy game in the United States last month. The 548,000 copies sold during June put the spacefaring platformer above the one-million mark in US sales, as proclaimed by Nintendo in a triumphant announcement. In kind of a bummer of a month in terms of general software sales, Super Mario Galaxy 2 was one of the few success stories for June.

While one million copies in two months (41 days of NPD reporting time) is impressive, it doesn't approach the level of success enjoyed by the first Super Mario Galaxy, which broke a million in its first month on the market, only 12 days of which counted for NPD. (The fact that its first month was November may have had something to do with that strong start.)

Nintendo also announced that DS hardware sales have reached "nearly 42 million," with Wii sales "closing in on a cumulative milestone of 30 million units sold in the United States alone." Both systems enjoyed sales spikes last month.

JoystiqSuper Mario Galaxy 2 passes 1 million sold in US originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jul 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendoNPDPlatformersalesSuper-Mario-GalaxySuper-Mario-Galaxy-2wiiFri, 16 Jul 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Galaxy 2 on sale for $35 through Dell]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/super-mario-galaxy-2-on-sale-for-35-through-dell/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/super-mario-galaxy-2-on-sale-for-35-through-dell/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/super-mario-galaxy-2-on-sale-for-35-through-dell/#commentsDell has marked down Super Mario Galaxy 2 to $35. For a high-profile game just released weeks ago, that's a pittance -- less than a pittance. If you gave Dell a pittance, you'd get a trifle back as change. It's a good deal, is what we're saying, for a game that is "the best Mario game ever."

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

[Via GoNintendo]

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DellMarionintendoNintendo-EADSuper-Mario-GalaxySuper-Mario-Galaxy-2wiiThu, 10 Jun 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[See the Super Mario Galaxy 2 orchestra live (on video)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/27/see-the-super-mario-galaxy-2-orchestra-live-on-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/27/see-the-super-mario-galaxy-2-orchestra-live-on-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/27/see-the-super-mario-galaxy-2-orchestra-live-on-video/#commentsFor Super Mario Galaxy 2's soundtrack, Nintendo went all-out, recording the main theme with a 70-person orchestra. Footage of the assembled musicians playing the sweeping opening music has been released via the Japanese Nintendo Channel (watch it after the break), allowing us to see just how much more epic a piece of music is when you see it played by a room full of people. If you're wondering why Shigeru Miyamoto looks so bored, it's because there was no room in the orchestra for his banjo.

Fans of Galaxy 2's music will be crushed to learn that Japan's Club Nintendo is offering a two-disc soundtrack for just 300 points with the registration of a copy of the game. It's possible for this bonus to make its way to other regions' Club Nintendos, as the first Galaxy soundtrack did in Europe, but we'd rather take such anomalies as delightful surprises, rather than disappoint ourselves by expecting them.

[Via ONM]

Continue reading See the Super Mario Galaxy 2 orchestra live (on video)

JoystiqSee the Super Mario Galaxy 2 orchestra live (on video) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 May 2010 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>club-nintendojapankoji-kondomusicnintendo-channelorchestrasoundtracksuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2Thu, 27 May 2010 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Entire Super Mario Galaxy 2 soundtrack now on YouTube]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/23/entire-super-mario-galaxy-2-soundtrack-now-on-youtube/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/23/entire-super-mario-galaxy-2-soundtrack-now-on-youtube/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/23/entire-super-mario-galaxy-2-soundtrack-now-on-youtube/#comments Super Mario Galaxy had one of the most delightful, transportive soundtracks of any game in the current console generation, with themes both new and familiar set to a sweeping orchestral score. To show off the sequel's equally impressive accompaniment, a YouTube channel purportedly belonging to composer Mahito Yokota has uploaded every single track from Super Mario Galaxy 2 onto a single playlist.

You can listen to it here, though the tracks' names might include a few minor, minor spoilers. If you can suffer those, you're in for a full afternoon of happiness-inducing music.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

JoystiqEntire Super Mario Galaxy 2 soundtrack now on YouTube originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 23 May 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mahito-yokotamariomusicNintendosoundtracksuper-mariosuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiSun, 23 May 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Super Mario Galaxy 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/metareview-super-mario-galaxy-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/metareview-super-mario-galaxy-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/metareview-super-mario-galaxy-2/#commentsEveryone expects a Mario game to be good -- and it's even easier to expect quality when the new game is a direct follow-up to a game as universally adored as Super Mario Galaxy.

However, even given the high expectations, the reception Super Mario Galaxy 2's getting is startling. There are, as of right now, eight scores equivalent to 100 percent on the game's Metacritic page, a range befitting the title our own Randy Nelson called "the best Mario game ever." We've only quoted one of the 100-percenters below, in the interest of variety.
  • Edge (10): "This is a game that refuses to bore you, that can take you to the 60-star mark before asking you to do the same thing twice. It reuses assets, but almost never recycles ideas; you'll never see another title so thrifty, or so gratuitous."
  • Game Informer (93/100): "Sure, it's not the total reinvention of the genre we've come to expect from a new Mario title, but as a platformer fan I'm happy to get more Mario to tide me over. This game is a testament to the enduring appeal of the genre, as well as Nintendo's ability to create fresh new gameplay out of a decades-old formula."
  • Game|Life (9/10): "Super Mario Galaxy 2 is thus simultaneously more and less than its predecessor. It expands and elaborates on the gameplay in unpredictable ways, but the last one felt like a bigger, more complete adventure. That said, better core gameplay with less window dressing is infinitely preferable to the reverse."

Gallery: Super Mario Galaxy 2

JoystiqMetareview: Super Mario Galaxy 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 May 2010 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EADmariometareviewNintendonintendo-ead-tokyoplatformersuper-mariosuper-mario-brossuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiFri, 21 May 2010 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: Super Mario Galaxy 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/super-mario-galaxy-2-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/super-mario-galaxy-2-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/super-mario-galaxy-2-review/#comments Super Mario Galaxy 2 is the best Mario game ever. There, I said it.

What Nintendo's EAD Tokyo team has managed to pull off in this game is astounding, especially when you consider just how good the original Super Mario Galaxy was. Like expert craftsmen, they've improved upon an already excellent product and delivered a seemingly endless volley of fresh ideas -- be they in level design or game mechanics -- that are every bit as polished as those in the first game and, most importantly, just pure fun.

Since the sequel was first announced and up until, well, now, there's been a lingering question: Is it just Super Mario Galaxy 1.5? Despite what the original plans for the sequel may have entailed, one thing is clear: SMG2 is its own game. It shares the basic mechanics of its predecessor yet brings so many new experiences to the playing field that it stands alone. Even more, it features enough challenges to keep the most hardcore Mario player engaged for weeks.

Gallery: Super Mario Galaxy 2

Continue reading Review: Super Mario Galaxy 2

JoystiqReview: Super Mario Galaxy 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 May 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ead-tokyomarionintendonintendo-ead-tokyosuper-mariosuper-mario-brossuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiFri, 21 May 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Mario Galaxy 2 travels to planet Mario 64]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/video-mario-galaxy-2-travels-to-planet-mario-64/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/video-mario-galaxy-2-travels-to-planet-mario-64/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/video-mario-galaxy-2-travels-to-planet-mario-64/#comments
Upon watching the Super Mario Galaxy 2 video after the break, there's a very real chance you will be smitten, smacked or otherwise clobbered by an overwhelming feeling of nostalgia. Nintendo, you see, decided to slip at least one Super Mario 64 level, Whomp's Fortress, into Super Mario Galaxy 2. The spirally mountain, the Whomp, the delightful music -- it's all there. Seriously, pour the Kool-Aid, heat up some pizza rolls and it'll be childhood all over again.

Continue reading Video: Mario Galaxy 2 travels to planet Mario 64

JoystiqVideo: Mario Galaxy 2 travels to planet Mario 64 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 May 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendosuper-mario-64super-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiWed, 19 May 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[This Week on the Nintendo Channel: Super Mario Galaxy 2 TV spots]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-super-mario-galaxy-2-tv-spots/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-super-mario-galaxy-2-tv-spots/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-super-mario-galaxy-2-tv-spots/#commentsLook -- the above TV spots for Super Mario Galaxy 2 are really slick and all, but now we've got one thing on our mind: pancakes. Now that we know there's a stack of flapjacks out there with its own gravitational pull, we just can't wait to dig in. Thankfully, we won't have to wait too long to satiate our need for edible planetary bodies.

For the rest of this week's Nintendo Channel content, head past the break.

Continue reading This Week on the Nintendo Channel: Super Mario Galaxy 2 TV spots

JoystiqThis Week on the Nintendo Channel: Super Mario Galaxy 2 TV spots originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 May 2010 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demosds-demosdsiwarenintendo-channelsuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2virtual-consolewiiwareMon, 17 May 2010 16:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Galaxy 2 trailer floats in]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/super-mario-galaxy-2-trailer-floats-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/super-mario-galaxy-2-trailer-floats-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/14/super-mario-galaxy-2-trailer-floats-in/#commentsThe latest video excursion into Super Mario Galaxy 2 (after the break) features some very fancy aerial maneuvers by a gas-filled Yoshi. The side-scrolling segment of the game shown here requires Yoshi to float from Blimp Fruit to Blimp Fruit to stay aloft, and even relies on Yoshi's flutter jump to navigate between platforms around the stage.

We can't help but notice that the stage itself is shaped like a cylinder. In fact, you might describe the level as "tubular."

Continue reading Super Mario Galaxy 2 trailer floats in

JoystiqSuper Mario Galaxy 2 trailer floats in originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 May 2010 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mariosuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2yoshiFri, 14 May 2010 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Galaxy 2 trailer features bird racing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/super-mario-galaxy-2-trailer-features-bird-racing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/super-mario-galaxy-2-trailer-features-bird-racing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/super-mario-galaxy-2-trailer-features-bird-racing/#commentsNintendo's viral-esque series of Super Mario Galaxy 2 promotional videos continues with a brief look at an odd flying minigame. In this racing segment, Mario woo-hoos through a course as he holds onto the legs of a "Fluzzard." The challenge, of course, is to win the race against a bunch of birds who aren't weighted down by husky plumbers.

Perhaps this particular Fluzzard flies faster, though, boosted by the assurance that its talents are useful to Mario. There are really only two fates for animals in the Mario universe, after all. If you can't be used as a vehicle in some way (like Yoshi, who is born wearing a saddle), you are doomed to being stomped to death. See the trailer after the break.

Continue reading Super Mario Galaxy 2 trailer features bird racing

JoystiqSuper Mario Galaxy 2 trailer features bird racing originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 May 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eadfluzzardmarioNintendoplatformerracingsuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiMon, 10 May 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Iwata explains Super Mario Galaxy 2 tutorial DVD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/iwata-explains-super-mario-galaxy-2-tutorial-dvd/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/iwata-explains-super-mario-galaxy-2-tutorial-dvd/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/07/iwata-explains-super-mario-galaxy-2-tutorial-dvd/#commentsIn his presentation to investors, Nintendo president Satoru Iwata confirmed that Super Mario Galaxy 2 would include a bonus tutorial DVD, and that said DVD would be exclusive to Europe and Japan. Iwata called the "Super Mario Galaxy 2 For Beginners" video "a visual manual for first-timers for 3D Mario." It includes basic information about how to play Super Mario Galaxy 2, as well as "Super Play" footage showing advanced techniques for more seasoned Mario fans.

He also addressed the obvious complaint about the DVD: "Some may feel this is unusual because Wii does not have a DVD playback capability, but given the wide penetration of DVD players at home, we have concluded that it is most useful for the players if they can confirm the contents even while they are playing with Wii and decided to provide the footage in DVD format."

You can see a snippet of footage from the Japanese version of the DVD in the presentation. And you can see the latest trailer from Nintendo of America, featuring Bee Mario, after the break.

Continue reading Iwata explains Super Mario Galaxy 2 tutorial DVD

JoystiqIwata explains Super Mario Galaxy 2 tutorial DVD originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 May 2010 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dvdsatoru-iwatasuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2super-mario-galaxy-2-for-beginnerstutorialFri, 07 May 2010 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New Super Mario Galaxy 2 media is all about Luigi]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/new-super-mario-galaxy-2-media-is-all-about-luigi/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/new-super-mario-galaxy-2-media-is-all-about-luigi/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/new-super-mario-galaxy-2-media-is-all-about-luigi/#comments In the run up to Super Mario Galaxy 2's big launch later this month, Nintendo has been releasing a steady stream of nostalgia-caked media on the game. And while we don't tell you about each and every one (there's a handful of trailers right here, for instance), we do try and point out the ones that are particularly enticing. For instance, today's trailer features the once-again-playable Luigi as he gets in on some Power Star collecting action himself.

It's not clear whether the other Mr. Mario is playable from the get-go -- in the first Super Mario Galaxy, Luigi only became playable after collecting all 120 stars -- but he will clearly be a character that players can control. See Mario's partner in time don an adorable bee suit in the gallery below and check out the new trailer just above.

Gallery: Super Mario Galaxy 2 (with Luigi!)

JoystiqNew Super Mario Galaxy 2 media is all about Luigi originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 May 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>luigimediaNintendopower-starscreenshotssuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2trailerWiiWed, 05 May 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Europeans get tutorial DVD with Super Mario Galaxy 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/03/europeans-get-tutorial-dvd-with-super-mario-galaxy-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/03/europeans-get-tutorial-dvd-with-super-mario-galaxy-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/03/europeans-get-tutorial-dvd-with-super-mario-galaxy-2/#comments Nintendo really wants to make sure you know how to play Super Mario Galaxy 2, so in addition to the Cosmic Guide feature of the game (which will play for you past the hard parts, if you so choose), it'll also be releasing a bonus DVD in Europe with video tutorials of how to pull off some of the game's toughest tricks.

We'll skip right over the irony of Nintendo releasing a bonus disc that can't be played on the Wii (since it's just a standard DVD), and tell you that we've contacted Nintendo of America to see if those of us in the States will have this same option. In the meantime, you might want to grab a copy of the first Galaxy and start practicing, because with all of this extra help that Nintendo is offering, SMG2 must be really, really hard.

JoystiqEuropeans get tutorial DVD with Super Mario Galaxy 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 May 2010 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonusdiscdvdmarionintendosuper-mario-brossuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2Mon, 03 May 2010 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Side-scrolling Mario Galaxy 2 footage is delightful]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/side-scrolling-mario-galaxy-2-footage-is-delightful/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/side-scrolling-mario-galaxy-2-footage-is-delightful/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/23/side-scrolling-mario-galaxy-2-footage-is-delightful/#comments
Amongst all gamers of a certain age, there exists a very special, very sensitive part of the brain. The particular section is flooded with pleasure-inducing chemicals upon seeing Mario jump on (and subsequently flatten!) a Goomba. This effect is actually doubled when seen in a 2D context, so we have to append the latest Super Mario Galaxy 2 video with a warning: Prepare your pleasure centers, this one is a doozy. If you think you can handle it, watch the video after the break.

[Via GoNintendo]

Continue reading Side-scrolling Mario Galaxy 2 footage is delightful

JoystiqSide-scrolling Mario Galaxy 2 footage is delightful originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Apr 2010 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>marionintendosuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiFri, 23 Apr 2010 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Super Mario Galaxy 2 co-op & cloud power-up]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/super-mario-galaxy-2-co-op-and-cloud-power-up-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/super-mario-galaxy-2-co-op-and-cloud-power-up-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/super-mario-galaxy-2-co-op-and-cloud-power-up-preview/#comments Just over a month from today, Super Mario Galaxy 2 will somersault onto store shelves. We thought we'd seen just about everything the final game would have to offer but, as Nintendo showed me earlier this week at its Northern California offices, there are still plenty of surprises to be found in this sequel.

While my last hands-on had me controlling the portly platforming plumber exclusively, this one started me out with a Luma in the game's revamped, expanded co-op mode. When I did play as Mario, I got a chance to try out the latest addition to his growing wardrobe of specialized suits, transforming into the extra-floaty (and fluffy) Cloud Mario. Then came the unexpected: A galaxy based on Super Mario Sunshine (sorry, folks -- no FLUDD).

Gallery: Super Mario Galaxy 2 - Co-op & Cloud Power-Up Preview

Continue reading Hands-on: Super Mario Galaxy 2 co-op & cloud power-up

JoystiqHands-on: Super Mario Galaxy 2 co-op & cloud power-up originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co-opmariomultiplayernintendosuper-mariosuper-mario-brossuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiWed, 21 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Galaxy 2 introduces 'Cloud' power-up]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/super-mario-galaxy-2-introduces-cloud-power-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/super-mario-galaxy-2-introduces-cloud-power-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/16/super-mario-galaxy-2-introduces-cloud-power-up/#comments No, this new power-up won't give Mario spiky blond hair and a giant sword. Instead, the Cloud power-up from Super Mario Galaxy 2 appears to give Mario the magical ability to walk on clouds. Judging by this image from the Official Nintendo Magazine, these are the happiest clouds ever. They love being stepped on!

It's clear that Mario's return trip to the stars will have no shortage of new (and returning) gameplay gimmicks. In addition to floating in the sky, it seems Mario can also turn into a boulder, ride dinosaurs, and drill through planets. The only thing he can't seem to do is his job. What happened to that plumbing gig you had, huh? This leaky pipe isn't going to fix itself, you know.

[Thanks, Fernando!]

JoystiqSuper Mario Galaxy 2 introduces 'Cloud' power-up originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Apr 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cloudmarionintendopower-upsuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiFri, 16 Apr 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Be a Luma in Super Mario Galaxy 2 multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/be-a-luma-in-super-mario-galaxy-2-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/be-a-luma-in-super-mario-galaxy-2-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/be-a-luma-in-super-mario-galaxy-2-multiplayer/#comments Famitsu has released some new information on Super Mario Galaxy 2, dealing with the game's gripping story. As translated by NeoGAF, the story sees Peach once again inviting Mario to enjoy watching stardust fall from the sky, which only happens once every 100 years. Of course, that means the game would have to take place at least 100 years after the original Super Mario Galaxy, but it's probably best not to think about it. Anyway, on his way to the castle, Mario happens upon a lost baby star named "Baby Chico," who journeys to the castle with Mario. And then something happens -- we're going to guess Bowser.

In other spacefaring plumber news, the Japanese website for Super Mario Galaxy 2 has been updated with some new information about the game, including its two-player mode. It seems the second player will control a Luma (Baby Chico, as it turns out). Hopefully it will amount to more than just collecting Star Bits this time around.

Be sure to check out the Japanese site for some new video and images.

[Via GoNintendo]

Source -- Nintendo Japan -- Super Mario Galaxy 2
Source -- NeoGAF

JoystiqBe a Luma in Super Mario Galaxy 2 multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Apr 2010 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendosuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiThu, 15 Apr 2010 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Super Mario Galaxy 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/super-mario-galaxy-2-hands-on-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/super-mario-galaxy-2-hands-on-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/31/super-mario-galaxy-2-hands-on-preview/#comments A short time ago, in a galaxy far, far away ...

I was sitting on a couch at Nintendo HQ, facing a large television. On it, a planetoid shaped like Mario's head stared back at me. It was Starship Mario, the interstellar plumber's preferred means of travel between the many galaxies that make up Super Mario Galaxy 2. This small world serves as transportation and a mini-sandbox within which Mario can practice moves. It also evolves as the game progresses, gaining new features, such as a "blemish" on its nose -- actually a Yoshi egg that appears after players have met the dutiful dinosaur.

As we've already talked about, the game's designers have tossed out the full-on hub level of Super Mario Galaxy in favor of a more classic, straightforward branching level menu. (Think: the overworld screen from New Super Mario Bros. Wii, and you get the idea.) Moving from galaxy to galaxy is a snap, as is seeing how many worlds you've discovered in each galaxy, as well as the number yet to be found. My first stop was the Puzzle Plank Galaxy, which turned out to be just as clever as it sounds.

Gallery: Super Mario Galaxy 2: Preview (3-31-10)

Continue reading Hands-on: Super Mario Galaxy 2

JoystiqHands-on: Super Mario Galaxy 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>marionintendosuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiWed, 31 Mar 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto explains Super Mario Galaxy 2's new world map]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/miyamoto-explains-super-mario-galaxy-2-new-world-map/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/miyamoto-explains-super-mario-galaxy-2-new-world-map/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/miyamoto-explains-super-mario-galaxy-2-new-world-map/#commentsSuper Mario Galaxy 2 drops the hub world from the first game for a much simpler map interface; even simpler than New Super Mario Bros.' map. Speaking to Game Informer, Shigeru Miyamoto explained the change. "We want players to focus on the joy of the action instead of getting to each game course," he said. "We wanted to make it as accessible as possible and as easy as possible for the players." That's not to say the game is being made easier in general. It's just now easier to get to the levels.

"Also, because we're going to incorporate a number of different stars, and conquering all the stars is going to be one of the most challenging missions for the player," Miyamoto added, "we want [players] to understand as easy as possible where they should go next and which places they should go back to in order to get access to the remaining stars." In addition, the new starship mechanic necessitates a streamlined navigation interface.

Game Informer also managed to ask Miyamoto about 3D right before the announcement of the 3DS, so the discussion was all about 3D televisions (and not entirely transferable to 3DS). "We're at the stage right now where it's very difficult to tell whether 3D televisions are going to cater to our needs to make better 3D experiences," he said. "For one thing, our video games are made for as many people as possible, and the number of people who can play those types of games, who can afford to buy the 3D televisions at home, aren't going to be very good." A hint of where Nintendo might be going with 3D followed: "It is also true that certain types of three-dimensional games utilize 3D televisions might help people navigate more freely. Right now we're at the stage where it's very hard for us to determine whether it's very good or bad."

Gallery: Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Nintendo Media Summit 2010)

JoystiqMiyamoto explains Super Mario Galaxy 2's new world map originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dMiyamotoNintendoshigeru-miyamotosuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiMon, 29 Mar 2010 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Galaxy 2 box art has your Yoshi needs covered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/super-mario-galaxy-2-box-art-has-your-yoshi-needs-covered/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/super-mario-galaxy-2-box-art-has-your-yoshi-needs-covered/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/25/super-mario-galaxy-2-box-art-has-your-yoshi-needs-covered/#comments
Click to see full cover art In just under two months, Super Mario Galaxy 2 will be on shelves. Today, Nintendo released the final North American box art so you can print it out, stick it in an empty Wii game case and pretend you have the plumber's latest platformer right now. Okay, so that's probably not what the Big N had in mind, but really, who doesn't do that?

Not you? Well then, you can at least use the art to help you spot the game at the store. Although, now that we look at it side-by-side with the original Super Mario Galaxy's box art, they appear strikingly similar. We've placed both after the break so you can study the subtle differences and not end up with the wrong game on May 23.

We're slated to play the latest build of SMG2 next week, so we'll have updated hands-on impressions of Nintendo's next big platformer soon.

Continue reading Super Mario Galaxy 2 box art has your Yoshi needs covered

JoystiqSuper Mario Galaxy 2 box art has your Yoshi needs covered originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>box-artmarionintendosuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiThu, 25 Mar 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Walmart handing out $20 gift card with Halo: Reach or Super Mario Galaxy 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/walmart-handing-out-20-gift-card-with-halo-reach-or-super-mari/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/walmart-handing-out-20-gift-card-with-halo-reach-or-super-mari/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/23/walmart-handing-out-20-gift-card-with-halo-reach-or-super-mari/#commentsIf you're planning to buy either Halo: Reach or Super Mario Galaxy 2 -- and it seems statistically likely that you'll want at least one of those -- then Walmart has a deal you may consider interesting. Right now, you can pre-order Halo or Galaxy and receive $20 in credit from the retailer. And, of course, since it's Walmart, the prices end in .96, saving you an additional three cents.

We don't even know when Halo: Reach will be released beyond "fall," but we already have a pretty good idea of what the best deal for it will be. Super Mario Galaxy 2 will be available May 23.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqWalmart handing out $20 gift card with Halo: Reach or Super Mario Galaxy 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discountgift-cardhalo-reachpre-orderrebatesalesuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2walmartTue, 23 Mar 2010 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[This Week on the Nintendo Channel: Media Summit 2010 redux]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-media-summit-2010-redux/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-media-summit-2010-redux/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/this-week-on-the-nintendo-channel-media-summit-2010-redux/#comments This week's Nintendo Channel update features a lot of trailers for all of the big news items out of Nintendo Media Summit last week. If you haven't had a chance to check out the new trailers and our hands-on impressions, hit up this post here. Otherwise, boot up your Wii and enjoy all of the new videos for Super Mario Galaxy 2, Sin and Punishment: Star Successor and Disney Guilty Party!

Gallery: Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Nintendo Media Summit 2010)

Continue reading This Week on the Nintendo Channel: Media Summit 2010 redux

JoystiqThis Week on the Nintendo Channel: Media Summit 2010 redux originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disney-guilty-partynintendo-channelnintendo-media-summit-2010sin-and-punishmentsin-and-punishment-2sin-and-punishment-star-successorsuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2Mon, 01 Mar 2010 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Super Mario Galaxy 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/hands-on-super-mario-galaxy-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/hands-on-super-mario-galaxy-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/hands-on-super-mario-galaxy-2/#comments
The original Super Mario Galaxy was selected as one of Joystiq's top games of 2007. Which, of course, meant we liked it -- a lot, in fact. So we took it as welcome news when the sequel was revealed at E3 last year; even if it didn't look all that different from the first game. Truth be told, after playing Super Mario Galaxy 2 at the Nintendo Media Summit, I can say that it isn't that different. But sometimes that's a good thing -- especially when you're talking about the video game equivalent of comfort food.

I specifically played two worlds during my demo, with the intent to focus on two of the new game mechanics in SMG2: the first being the drill bit power-up, which quickly wowed me with the nifty new level designs it has inspired; and the second being Mario's lizard pal Yoshi, who really is a space-faring plumber's best friend.

Gallery: Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Nintendo Media Summit 2010)

Continue reading Hands-on: Super Mario Galaxy 2

JoystiqHands-on: Super Mario Galaxy 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Nintendonintendo-media-summit-2010super-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiThu, 25 Feb 2010 00:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Galaxy 2 flies into retail space May 23]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/super-mario-galaxy-2-may-23-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/super-mario-galaxy-2-may-23-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/24/super-mario-galaxy-2-may-23-release-date/#commentsThose of you eagerly awaiting more exploration of tiny, gimmick-filled planetoids don't have long to wait. At its Media Summit event today, Nintendo announced the May 23 release date of Super Mario Galaxy 2 in North America.

Last night, news from Nintendo of Australia suggested that Galaxy 2 would see a summer release, and we're delighted that the wait for a more specific date -- one that applied to America, as well -- wasn't long at all. Speaking of delight, we'll now get to see just how high Mario can jump when he ditches Yoshi mid-air ... in space!

Gallery: Super Mario Galaxy 2

JoystiqSuper Mario Galaxy 2 flies into retail space May 23 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>marioNintendonintendo-media-summit-2010q2-2010release-datesuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiWed, 24 Feb 2010 12:33:00 EST<![CDATA[NPD: New Super Mario Bros. Wii sales have surpassed Super Mario Galaxy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/npd-new-super-mario-bros-wii-sales-have-surpassed-super-mario/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/npd-new-super-mario-bros-wii-sales-have-surpassed-super-mario/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/npd-new-super-mario-bros-wii-sales-have-surpassed-super-mario/#comments New Old Mario is stomping all over the mark left by his globetrotting counterpart, with sales of New Super Mario Bros. Wii having already surpassed Super Mario Galaxy in the US. According to the NPD, Galaxy has sold approximately 4.1 million units in the two years since its November 2007 release, while NSMBW has amassed 4.2 million sales in about 45 days.

As IGN notes, the Wii's install base is much higher now (26 million in the US), but that still doesn't explain why Galaxy, which has had far more time on retail shelves, was passed by so quickly. We'd posit that there's something nostalgic about NSMBW, which makes it stand apart from Galaxy and speak to the Wii's demographic. Of course, Super Mario Galaxy 2 will have the benefit of being quite familiar too ...

JoystiqNPD: New Super Mario Bros. Wii sales have surpassed Super Mario Galaxy originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Jan 2010 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>marionew-super-mario-bros-wiiNintendonpdsalessuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiThu, 21 Jan 2010 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Galaxy cake is out of this world]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/29/super-mario-galaxy-cake-is-out-of-this-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/29/super-mario-galaxy-cake-is-out-of-this-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/29/super-mario-galaxy-cake-is-out-of-this-world/#commentsLoyal Joystiq reader Alex sent us an image of a gorgeous Super Mario Galaxy-inspired cake his wife made, and the finished product looks delicious. Made for the son of a family friend, the crafty design features Nintendo's legendary hero mid-confrontation with his arch-enemy, Bowser.

If the cake doesn't tickle your fancy, maybe the story behind it will. According to Alex, his wife wasn't familiar with the game so he picked up a copy for "research" purposes.

So guys and gals, if you're looking for a way to get your significant other interested in video games, try to use their love of baked goods as an excuse to introduce games into the relationship. The results may be delicious.

[Thanks, Alex]

JoystiqSuper Mario Galaxy cake is out of this world originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baked-goodscakecraftsdelicioussuper-mario-galaxyvideo-game-cakesSun, 29 Nov 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto: Super Mario Galaxy 2 will be 'really difficult']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/16/miyamoto-super-mario-galaxy-2-will-be-really-difficult/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/16/miyamoto-super-mario-galaxy-2-will-be-really-difficult/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/16/miyamoto-super-mario-galaxy-2-will-be-really-difficult/#commentsMuch like he did for the just-launched New Super Mario Bros. Wii, Shigeru Miyamoto has announced that Super Mario Galaxy 2 will be "really difficult." But will it be so difficult as to require Nintendo's new in-game life preserver, the Super Guide? Miyamoto isn't so sure yet. "In general," Miyamoto told Official Nintendo Magazine, "wherever and whenever appropriate, I think we will want to incorporate that kind of thing, but I cannot commit to anything specific right now."

Here's our absolutely ridiculous prediction: Miyamoto and crew are going to do with this sequel what they did with Super Mario Bros.: The Lost Levels. Since Galaxy 2 is basically another level pack for an existing game, the team is going to make it almost impossible to complete.

Of course, that won't happen. More likely, Super Mario Galaxy 2 will be on par with the first game in terms of challenge, but will include the Super Guide to stay consistent with Nintendo's current strategy.

Gallery: Super Mario Galaxy 2

JoystiqMiyamoto: Super Mario Galaxy 2 will be 'really difficult' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Nintendoshigeru-miyamotosuper-guidesuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiMon, 16 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Galaxy commercial brings a tear to our eye]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/super-mario-galaxy-commercial-brings-a-tear-to-our-eye/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/super-mario-galaxy-commercial-brings-a-tear-to-our-eye/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/super-mario-galaxy-commercial-brings-a-tear-to-our-eye/#comments We're not afraid to admit that Ed Peduzzi's Super Mario Galaxy commercial gets us all misty. It's a powerful combination of Sigur Rós' "Hoppípolla" and the classic footage of Nintendo's Italian plumber, crescendoing in a mighty display of Super Mario Galaxy that really gave our heart strings a tug. Check it out for yourself past the break and if you don't get goosebumps, well you just may be a soulless husk of a human being.

Continue reading Super Mario Galaxy commercial brings a tear to our eye

JoystiqSuper Mario Galaxy commercial brings a tear to our eye originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercialmarionintendosuper-mariosuper-mario-galaxyvideoFri, 30 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Madmen completing every Mario game for charity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/12/madmen-completing-every-mario-game-for-charity/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/12/madmen-completing-every-mario-game-for-charity/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/12/madmen-completing-every-mario-game-for-charity/#comments
We love Mario. We mean, we're somewhat contractually obligated to, being huge nerds and all. Still, there's certain stages in the core Mario games that are simply excruciating to play -- we usually skip them during our nostalgic romps. That's why we can't help but admire the efforts of three men who are playing through every Super Mario title -- collecting every star, completing every level and Shining every Get! (Err -- getting every Shine.)

They're not doing this for fun, of course -- for the second year in a row, they're running through this "Mario Marathon," collecting donations for Child's Play. They've already been at it for two days -- but with the team yet to totally complete Super Mario 64, Super Mario Galaxy, Super Mario Sunshine, then Super Mario Galaxy again (as that totally secret character), there's a lot of ballgame left to be played.

JoystiqMadmen completing every Mario game for charity originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitychilds-playmariomario-marathonsuper-mario-galaxySun, 12 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[See what Mario Galaxy looks like in HD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/see-what-mario-galaxy-looks-like-in-hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/see-what-mario-galaxy-looks-like-in-hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/06/see-what-mario-galaxy-looks-like-in-hd/#comments
Remember that Wii emulator that boosted the graphics up to 720p? Thanks to a recent update, Super Mario Galaxy is now playable on the emulator -- known as Dolphin (get it?) -- and we have to admit, it looks pretty gorgeous. Granted, Super Mario Galaxy was no graphical slouch in the first place, but the extra resomolutions certainly add to the overall experience, and it gives us an idea of what a Wii HD console would be capable of producing.

Check out a video of the Super Mario Galaxy running in HD after the break (don't forget to turn on HD in the player). It's in HD. Did we mention that yet?

[Via CVG]

Continue reading See what Mario Galaxy looks like in HD

JoystiqSee what Mario Galaxy looks like in HD originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dolphinemulationemulatornintendosuper-mario-galaxyWiiMon, 06 Jul 2009 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Galaxy voted 'best game' by BAFTA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/super-mario-galaxy-voted-best-game-by-bafta/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/super-mario-galaxy-voted-best-game-by-bafta/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/11/super-mario-galaxy-voted-best-game-by-bafta/#comments
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts has handed out its annual video game awards, and this year's top honor went to ... Super Mario Galaxy. Nintendo's topsy-turvy Wii platformer beat out Call of Duty 4, Fallout 3, Fable II, Grand Theft Auto IV and Rock Band in being crowned "Best Game." (Guess that settles it.)

Meanwhile, Call of Duty 4 earned the title of "People's Choice" winner based on votes placed via BAFTA's website. In an epic upset, Grand Theft Auto IV won exactly ... zero awards, despite being nominated in seven categories. That's alright; it's selling just fine. You'll find the full list of categories and respective winners after the break.

Continue reading Super Mario Galaxy voted 'best game' by BAFTA

JoystiqSuper Mario Galaxy voted 'best game' by BAFTA originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Mar 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardsbaftanintendosuper-mario-galaxyWiiWed, 11 Mar 2009 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BAFTA awards to settle the 'Super Mario Galaxy vs. COD4' debate]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/bafta-awards-to-settle-the-super-mario-galaxy-vs-cod4-debate/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/bafta-awards-to-settle-the-super-mario-galaxy-vs-cod4-debate/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/bafta-awards-to-settle-the-super-mario-galaxy-vs-cod4-debate/#comments
Also, sponsored by GAME

Alright, perhaps "debate" is a somewhat enthusiastic label for a question none of us have ever seriously considered. Which is more worthy of a prestigious award -- the cratered theater of war in Activision's Call of Duty 4, or the smiling planetoids of Super Mario Galaxy? We can't come up with a way to decide, which is precisely why we're grateful that the GAME British Academy Video Games Awards (for games that are sold by GAME) have decided to lump both into the "Best Game" category:
  • Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
  • Fable II
  • Fallout 3
  • Grand Theft Auto IV
  • Rock Band
  • Super Mario Galaxy
Before you object to the British Academy of Film and Television Arts' seemingly outdated choices, note that the period of valid entries spans October 26, 2007 to December 31, 2008 due to an earlier delay in ceremonies. The messy result, of course, is two Novembers duking it out. You'll see the rest of the quality-riddled categories after the break.

Continue reading BAFTA awards to settle the 'Super Mario Galaxy vs. COD4' debate

JoystiqBAFTA awards to settle the 'Super Mario Galaxy vs. COD4' debate originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 16:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AwardsBAFTAbest-of-2008Call-of-Duty-4COD4GAMESuper-Mario-GalaxyTue, 10 Feb 2009 16:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Holidaze 2008: Live in the past, it's cheaper]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/holidaze-2008-live-in-the-past-its-cheaper/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/holidaze-2008-live-in-the-past-its-cheaper/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/holidaze-2008-live-in-the-past-its-cheaper/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Bad news, everybody: 2008 is the new 2007. Those of us lucky enough to have survived last year's unyielding flood of exquisite games expected the new holiday to provide some respite -- perhaps an influx of blessedly mediocre games -- but alas, our wallets are once again tugged in every $60 direction.

But what's worse? The deafening din of desirable games, or that irresistible impulse to play and master every adventure the very second it becomes available? Provided you can defeat the latter reflex, we have a simple suggestion: Live in the past. It's cheaper!

We've dredged up our decisive, if ever-so-slightly controversial list of the ten best games of Oh Seven, hoping you'll find a fantastic experience you mistakenly overlooked. You'll find that the passage of time has taken a pleasing toll on the recommended price of admission. In fact, we've traveled forward in time to this very moment, hoping to pick up our 2007 nominees on the cheap. What do you think? Should we make Portal our Game of the Year?

Continue reading Holidaze 2008: Live in the past, it's cheaper

JoystiqHolidaze 2008: Live in the past, it's cheaper originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assassins-CreedBioshockCall-of-Duty-4God-of-War-IIGOTY-2007Halo-3Holidaze-2008JoystiqFeaturesJS-Twitterlive-in-the-past-its-cheaperMacMass-EffectOrange-BoxPCPegglePortalPS2PS3Super-Mario-GalaxyWiiXbox-360Thu, 27 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Holidaze 2008: Live in the past, it's cheaper (Page 2)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/holidaze-2008-live-in-the-past-its-cheaper-page-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/holidaze-2008-live-in-the-past-its-cheaper-page-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/holidaze-2008-live-in-the-past-its-cheaper-page-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare

What we said then: "Perhaps the most surprising thing about the game is how few actual revolutionary concepts are contained within. It selects existing game design tools, hones them to practical perfection and creates what is, in our opinion, the military shooter against which all others must be judged."

What we say now: "An essential 'tunnel of fun' shooter with a rewarding multiplayer component. If you find yourself disappointed by this year's Call of Duty: World at War, it's probably this game's fault."

Current retail price: $39.99 (Game of the Year edition)

Continue reading Holidaze 2008: Live in the past, it's cheaper (Page 2)

JoystiqHolidaze 2008: Live in the past, it's cheaper (Page 2) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Nov 2008 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Assassins-CreedBioshockCall-of-Duty-4God-of-War-2GOTY-2007Halo-3Holidaze-2008JoystiqFeatureslive-in-the-past-its-cheaperMass-EffectOrange-BoxPCPegglePortalPS2PS3Super-Mario-GalaxyWiiXbox-360Thu, 27 Nov 2008 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Galaxy soundtrack on European Stars Catalogue somehow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/super-mario-galaxy-soundtrack-on-european-stars-catalogue-someho/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/super-mario-galaxy-soundtrack-on-european-stars-catalogue-someho/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/24/super-mario-galaxy-soundtrack-on-european-stars-catalogue-someho/#commentsFiled under: ,


We're assuming that this is a clerical error of some sort -- perhaps a new intern keeps uploading the wrong images and product descriptions for Wii Fit wallpapers. For the second week in a row, actual items have been added to the European Stars Catalogue, and they are cool.

For 3,850 and 4,850 points, respectively, European gamers have the chance to buy the Gold and Platinum Super Mario Galaxy soundtrack discs previously exclusive to the Japanese Club Nintendo. The Gold edition features 28 tracks, and the two-disc Platinum set contains a staggering 81 tracks.

It's been roughly one year since the items' release in Japan, but considering that nobody expected to see them available anywhere else ever, we have a hard time calling this "late." If you somehow have a ridiculous stock of Stars, go now! These items probably won't last the day.

[Thanks, RICANJO!]

JoystiqSuper Mario Galaxy soundtrack on European Stars Catalogue somehow originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 15:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>club-nintendoeuropemusicsoundtrackstars-cataloguesuper-mario-galaxyMon, 24 Nov 2008 15:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto: Portal a triumph, Mario Galaxy 'conservative' in ways]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/miyamoto-portal-a-triumph-mario-galaxy-conservative-in-ways/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/miyamoto-portal-a-triumph-mario-galaxy-conservative-in-ways/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/miyamoto-portal-a-triumph-mario-galaxy-conservative-in-ways/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

He may not be intimately familiar with Ratchet and Whatshisface, but at least revered game designer Shigeru Miyamoto has had the pleasure of tumbling through dimensional shortcuts and outsmarting acerbic computers. In an interesting chat with MTV Multiplayer's Stephen Totilo, Miyamoto admits that he, like most rational human beings, thought Portal was "an amazing game."

Games that go without the "amazing" label? The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, which the Mario maker describes as "not a bad game, by any means," but one that felt "like there was something missing." And while Miyamoto submits that Super Mario Galaxy did "some things that were very new and were very unique," he ultimately feels that some elements seemed "somewhat conservative."

And it's at this point that we strongly advise you to open an umbrella or don a durable raincoat. When faced with the choice of vehemently defending two prominent Nintendo games or agreeing with the creator, fanboy brains tend to explode quite violently.

JoystiqMiyamoto: Portal a triumph, Mario Galaxy 'conservative' in ways originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Legend-of-ZeldaMiyamotoPCPortalPS3Shigeru-MiyamotoSuper-Mario-GalaxyTwilight-PrincessWiiXbox-360ZeldaThu, 30 Oct 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto (slightly) critical of Twilight Princess, Super Mario Galaxy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/miyamoto-slightly-critical-of-twilight-princess-super-mario-g/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/miyamoto-slightly-critical-of-twilight-princess-super-mario-g/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/29/miyamoto-slightly-critical-of-twilight-princess-super-mario-g/#commentsFiled under:


MTV's Stephen Totilo has posted the third and final part of a lengthy interview with Shigeru Miyamoto. Though the bulk of the article was lent to discussion of Wii Music, the pair broached other subjects, including what Miyamoto perceives as a lack of innovation in titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess and Super Mario Galaxy.

Though Twilight Princess was "not a bad game," Shiggy felt there was "something missing," and was also semi-criticial of the previously untouchable Galaxy, which he thought was "very new and [...] very unique," but "somewhat conservative in terms of how far we branched out with design." If we may mount the Wii Fanboy soapbox for a moment, we'd concur that Twilight Princess was far from being the best Zelda, but found Galaxy to be consistently creative and entertaining.

Elsewhere, Miyamoto referred to the "next Galaxy," which may or may not mean we'll be getting another Mario-in-space game (we wouldn't read too much into it), and that he loves Portal. Nintendo fanboys we might be, but we can probably all appreciate that last statement.

Gallery: The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

JoystiqMiyamoto (slightly) critical of Twilight Princess, Super Mario Galaxy originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>legend-of-zeldamariomiyamotoplatformshigeru-miyamotosuper-mario-galaxytwilight-princesszeldaWed, 29 Oct 2008 16:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Ten for under twenty at Gamefly's sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/ten-for-under-twenty-at-gameflys-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/ten-for-under-twenty-at-gameflys-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/ten-for-under-twenty-at-gameflys-sale/#commentsFiled under:


In these belt-tightening, penny-pinching times, it literally pays to have a nose for the bargains. That's where we, or rather Gamefly, comes in. The game rental outfit has a broad selection of used Wii software for low, world banking crisis-friendly prices, and we chose ten of the best sub-$20 games to tempt you. Thar be bargains ahead!
There's actually a ton more we could have mentioned, including Super Mario Galaxy for $32.99, Super Smash Bros. Brawl for $30.99, and Metroid Prime 3 for $26.99. Sadly, "One hundred and fifty-eight for under forty-two" just doesn't work as a headline. Hit up the "Source" link for the full set.


[Thanks, William!]

JoystiqTen for under twenty at Gamefly's sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 17:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baroquebattalion-wars-2blast-worksdewys-adventuregameflygeometry-warsmercury-meltdownmetroid-prime-3nightsno-more-heroespreownedsalesega-superstars-tennissmash-bros-brawlsuper-mario-galaxyWed, 22 Oct 2008 17:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Tell us a story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/wii-warm-up-tell-us-a-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/wii-warm-up-tell-us-a-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/wii-warm-up-tell-us-a-story/#commentsFiled under:


The Wii has been on shelves for close to two years now. That means there are plenty of games to experience on the console. What we want to know is what games do you think have the best story? Did you really enjoy the yarn that Okami spun? Think Super Mario Galaxy had a great story? Which Wii games have had the most memorable plots to you?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Tell us a story originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>okamiplotstorysuper-mario-galaxyTue, 21 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST