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's Aonuma pitched Link's Crossbow Training 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/26/nintendos-aonuma-pitched-links-crossbow-training-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/26/nintendos-aonuma-pitched-links-crossbow-training-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/26/nintendos-aonuma-pitched-links-crossbow-training-2/#comments Aside from efforts like The Conduit and Call of Duty: World at War, Nintendo's Wii hasn't exactly enjoyed a glut of capable FPS titles. According to a recent interview with games[TM] (via NowGamer), Zelda director Eiji Aonuma recognizes this -- and sees great potential for fixing that problem in Link's Crossbow Training, the pack-in minigame included with the Wii Zapper. "To tell you the truth, I actually wanted to create Link's Crossbow Training 2 ... I thought that we should do something more and better in the field of the first-person shooter." Wait, haven't we heard this before?

Unfortunately for Aonuma, the execs above him at Nintendo didn't think much of the idea, nixing it in favor of a completely new entry in the Zelda series. "I was thinking that maybe we could intensify the multiplayer mode ... [but] a lot of people inside Nintendo insisted that I should work on a new Legend of Zelda title." We're sorry about that, Mr. Aonuma! And to the Nintendo executives who killed a sequel to Link's Crossbow Training, we'd like to personally thank you.

JoystiqNintendo's Aonuma pitched Link's Crossbow Training 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actioneiji-aonumafirst-person-shooterfpslegend-of-zeldalinks-crossbow-traininglinks-crossbow-training-2Nintendoresident-evil-4the-conduitWiiwii-zapperzapperzeldaSat, 26 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Europe gets Darkside Chronicles Zapper bundle Nov. 27, no zombie T-shirt]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/europe-gets-darkside-chronicles-zapper-bundle-nov-27-no-zombie/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/europe-gets-darkside-chronicles-zapper-bundle-nov-27-no-zombie/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/25/europe-gets-darkside-chronicles-zapper-bundle-nov-27-no-zombie/#comments
Dear European Readers, we're pleased to inform you that you'll be getting Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles on November 27. Heck, you're even getting a special bundle that includes the game and a Wii Zapper. We regret to inform you, however, that you won't be getting a Resident Evil zombie face T-shirt that can double as a Halloween (you have that there, right?) costume, in addition to being incredibly awesome.

If you're reading this in the US, don't be jealous of our overseas friends' plastic, gun-like shell. We have The Shirt. We can also buy the Resident Evil Shot Blaster, which eats Zappers for breakfast. (But is, unluckily for it, one step down the food chain from the Shark Gun.)

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqEurope gets Darkside Chronicles Zapper bundle Nov. 27, no zombie T-shirt originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomresident-evilresident-evil-the-darkside-chronicleswii-zapperTue, 25 Aug 2009 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[CES 2009: Zapper crossbow lets you shoot Gorons in style]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/ces-2009-zapper-crossbow-lets-you-shoot-gorons-in-style/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/ces-2009-zapper-crossbow-lets-you-shoot-gorons-in-style/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/13/ces-2009-zapper-crossbow-lets-you-shoot-gorons-in-style/#commentsFiled under:

We were impressed by the "WeeP 5" Zapper mod, but did have one reservation: Link would never use an MP5 to mow down a herd of Stalfoses (Stalfi?). Enter CTA Digital, who were displaying this Zapper crossbow shell at the recently finished CES 2009 (which is strange, because apparently this has been around for a while, but it's the first we've seen of it).

This bad boy comes equipped with a laser sight (we seriously question the historical accuracy of this) and, as you can see, a fetching "woodgrain" finish. It looks way, way nicer than the fugly crossbow peripheral we previously covered, and is roughly the same price: a rather eye-watering $29.99.

Gallery: Link's Crossbow Training

JoystiqCES 2009: Zapper crossbow lets you shoot Gorons in style originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actioncesces-2009consumer-electronics-showcrossbowgunlinks-crossbow-trainingNintendopew-pewWii-ZapperzapperZeldaTue, 13 Jan 2009 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fanboy Interview: Headstrong talks House of the Dead: Overkill]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/wii-fanboy-interview-headstrong-talks-house-of-the-dead-overki/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/wii-fanboy-interview-headstrong-talks-house-of-the-dead-overki/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/06/wii-fanboy-interview-headstrong-talks-house-of-the-dead-overki/#commentsFiled under:


House of the Dead: Overkill launches pretty much everywhere next month, and looks set to be a mini-upheaval for Sega's venerable lightgun series.

While shooting zombies in the face still plays a major role, Brit developer Headstrong Games has introduced a '70s horror theme, time manipulation, new enemies, and a ton of extra content. We lined up Lead Designer Alastair Halsby in our shotgun reticles, and fired several rounds of questions his way. Join us after the break for a discussion on grindhouse, censorship, and the "ballistic ballet of zombie destruction." Heads up!

Continue reading Wii Fanboy Interview: Headstrong talks House of the Dead: Overkill

JoystiqWii Fanboy Interview: Headstrong talks House of the Dead: Overkill originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>headstronghouse-of-the-deadjoystiqfeaturesoverkillsegawii-zapperTue, 06 Jan 2009 14:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Realistic Zapper mod is impressive, also sort of scary]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/26/realistic-zapper-mod-is-impressive-also-sort-of-scary/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/26/realistic-zapper-mod-is-impressive-also-sort-of-scary/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/26/realistic-zapper-mod-is-impressive-also-sort-of-scary/#commentsFiled under: ,


Say hello to your new little friend, the "WeeP 5 Advanced Zapper," a mash-up of a toy MP5 gun and Wiimote innards (you can see the painted IR sensor just below the muzzle). The WeeP 5 is the work of Instructables user THeOReos, who was left disappointed by the range of gun shells available for the Wii (WHAAAT?!). It's just the ticket if you want your Zapper-compatible games to feel extra authentic, and we'd rather enjoy using it to drop bad dudes in Ghost Squad (though it may not suit Link's Crossbow Training).

THeOReos is confident this works well, and has posted a full step-by-step of the building process here. We lack the patience or skillz to make our own, but don't let that put you off building one and sending it to us!


[Via Hack A Day]

JoystiqRealistic Zapper mod is impressive, also sort of scary originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Dec 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-dutyghost-squadgunhouse-of-the-deadlinks-crossbow-trainingpew-pewumbrella-chronicleswii-zapperwiimotezapperFri, 26 Dec 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Link's Price Slashing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/10/links-price-slashing/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/10/links-price-slashing/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/10/links-price-slashing/#commentsFiled under:

We thought that when the Wii Zapper bundle was released, Nintendo fans would hang on to Link's Crossbow Training and dump the included plastic handle, but it appears that the opposite is true. GameStop has just dropped the price of used copies of Link's Crossbow Training from five bucks to a ridiculous $2.99. The retailer is not currently offering used Zappers on their online store.

At the amazingly low (seriously, like last year's Madden low) $2.99, Link's Crossbow Training is officially Worth It for pretty much everybody, provided they have even a passing interest in the Zelda series or in shooting at stuff. And with no Zapper, it's so much more compact! If you're planning to grab this from the online store, use coupon code CAG16 (for Cheap Ass Gamers) to get an additional 16% off the price.

JoystiqLink's Price Slashing originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Sep 2008 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actiongamestoplinks-crossbow-trainingNintendorail-shooterWii-ZapperzapperZeldaWed, 10 Sep 2008 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega: More Balance Board and Zapper-compatible games on the way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/sega-more-balance-board-and-zapper-compatible-games-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/sega-more-balance-board-and-zapper-compatible-games-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/14/sega-more-balance-board-and-zapper-compatible-games-on-the-way/#commentsFiled under: ,

For those of you with a lot of plastic junk laying around, taking up space (remember, if you bought Wii Fit, you only played it once), there's hope! Sega has plans for your Nintendo peripherals, so you might be dusting them off in the near future.

During an interview, SEGA of America president Simon Jeffrey commented that Sega is "fans of the Wii Zapper" and that their game Ghost Squad "keeps selling." As for the future, he stated that the company has "more Zapper games going," with the same "for the Wii Balance Board, although we have nothing announced yet." We wonder if this will tie in to that mystery Leipzig game?

[Via Balance Board Blog]

JoystiqSega: More Balance Board and Zapper-compatible games on the way originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Aug 2008 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balance-boardsegasega-of-americasimon-jeffreywii-fitwii-zapperzapperThu, 14 Aug 2008 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Get a Wii gun shell for only a few times its worth]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/get-a-wii-gun-shell-for-only-a-few-times-its-worth/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/get-a-wii-gun-shell-for-only-a-few-times-its-worth/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/get-a-wii-gun-shell-for-only-a-few-times-its-worth/#commentsFiled under: ,

Want a Zapper-type gun shell for your Wiimote but don't want to overpay for what basically amounts to a handle? Well ... you're basically out of luck. But if you want to overpay somewhat less than the usual too-high price, Amazon.com is offering CTA Digital's Wii Magnum Gun, a Perfect Shot ripoff, for $8.99 as their Deal of the Day.

If you're concerned about the quality of this plastic gun shell versus other plastic gun shells, just remember: seriously, it's a piece of plastic, and probably does just as good a job of being that as any other piece of plastic. Don't think our dismissal of their complexity means we don't recommend a gun shell; anything that gets you playing Ghost Squad is a good thing.

JoystiqGet a Wii gun shell for only a few times its worth originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jul 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cta-digitaldeal-of-the-dayWiiwii-magnum-gunwii-zapperwiimoteFri, 18 Jul 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Gunning]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/wii-warm-up-gunning/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/wii-warm-up-gunning/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/13/wii-warm-up-gunning/#commentsFiled under: ,

We're sure that many of you have tried some sort of gun peripheral in your travels, and maybe even own one. If so, which one(s) have you tried? The Wii Zapper? The Nyko Perfect Shot? Something else?

Of all the guns you've used, which is your favorite? And if you've only ever used one, what do you think of that particular model?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Gunning originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Jul 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gunperfect-shotwii-zapperzapperSun, 13 Jul 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Circuit City offering up Wii bundles as you read this]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/circuit-city-offering-up-wii-bundles-as-you-read-this/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/circuit-city-offering-up-wii-bundles-as-you-read-this/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/circuit-city-offering-up-wii-bundles-as-you-read-this/#commentsFiled under:



Still hunting for a Wii? If so, Circuit City's online store has them in around about ... now.

Think supplies are going to last long? Hell no! Even though Circuit City is selling the things with an extra Wiimote, nunchuk and two of the titles listed below, we estimate these puppies will be gone soon. We'd usually criticize the practice of forcing customers to buy bundles, but we estimate that at least three or four of the six games being offered are must-haves:
You're still here!? Go! Go! Go!

[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqCircuit City offering up Wii bundles as you read this originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlecarnival-gamescircuit-cityclassic-controllerguitar-herolegend-of-zeldasmash-bros-brawlssbbsuper-mario-galaxytwilight-princesswii-playwii-zapperzapperzeldaMon, 16 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Circuit City has a Wii for you, but there's a catch [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/circuit-city-has-a-wii-for-you-but-theres-a-catch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/circuit-city-has-a-wii-for-you-but-theres-a-catch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/circuit-city-has-a-wii-for-you-but-theres-a-catch/#commentsFiled under:


Update: Well, that was fast. Sorry folks, looks like it's sold out.

Sad to say, but it's the truth. You can order a Wii right now from Circuit City, but you're going to have to bundle some stuff with the console. When looking over what you have to buy, however, it's really not that bad of a deal because you should be expecting to buy these games anyway.

So what do you need to purchase? Well, the Wii console (duh), an extra Wiimote and two or more of the following games and/or accessories:
Considering that you were going to pick up Super Mario Galaxy and Smash Bros. Brawl anyway (if you weren't planning on it, may we ask if you're insane?), it's not that bad of a deal. And, for those of you still desperate to get a console, this might be the best solution.

[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqCircuit City has a Wii for you, but there's a catch [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 May 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlecarnival-gamescircuit-citymario-party-8mp8smash-bros-brawlsuper-mario-galaxywii-playwii-zapperzapperThu, 29 May 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Used and Zapper-less: Link's Crossbow Savings]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/used-and-zapper-less-links-crossbow-savings/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/used-and-zapper-less-links-crossbow-savings/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/used-and-zapper-less-links-crossbow-savings/#commentsFiled under:


Even without any discount, the Link's Crossbow Training and Zapper bundle is already cheap at $20, but if you're looking for a way to pick up the pack-in game without being taxed for the extra plastic, Game Deal Daily has just what you need! The Woot-styled online shop is offering used, standalone copies of Link's Crossbow Training for only $4.95 (plus shipping and handling.)

Really, for a minigame collection with only an hour or two worth of content, that price sounds on target. Buy it now before the sale ends! You can finally find out what we were talking about when we said the game reminds us of your mother!

[Via CAG]

JoystiqUsed and Zapper-less: Link's Crossbow Savings originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Apr 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionbundlelinks-crossbow-trainingminigameNintendoshooterusedWii-ZapperzapperZeldaThu, 17 Apr 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Zero Punctuation sinks its teeth into Umbrella Chronicles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/30/zero-punctuation-sinks-its-teeth-into-umbrella-chronicles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/30/zero-punctuation-sinks-its-teeth-into-umbrella-chronicles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/30/zero-punctuation-sinks-its-teeth-into-umbrella-chronicles/#commentsFiled under: ,



This week on Zero Punctuation, gaming misanthrope Ben "Yahtzee" Croshaw tackles Wii rail shooter Resident Evil: Umbrella Chronicles. While the acidic one lays into the shamelessly cheesy dialogue and concludes that Capcom's title is "a rather unnecessary game that gaming history will swiftly forget," he also admits the game has "a charming retro feel."

The entire review is embedded after the break, but remember, kids: this is Zero Punctuation, and so NSFW.

Continue reading Zero Punctuation sinks its teeth into Umbrella Chronicles

JoystiqZero Punctuation sinks its teeth into Umbrella Chronicles originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jan 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomlulzrail-shooterresident-evilumbrella-chronicleswii-zapperzapperWed, 30 Jan 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Angelina Jolie buys Ghost Squad, promotes violence]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/angelina-jolie-buys-ghost-squad-promotes-violence/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/angelina-jolie-buys-ghost-squad-promotes-violence/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/angelina-jolie-buys-ghost-squad-promotes-violence/#commentsFiled under:

We'd like to be envious of Angelina Jolie's vast wealth and movie star looks, but heck, we just can't muster up the hate -- not when she has the nous to buy games like Ghost Squad.

Alas, not everybody appreciates Ms. Jolie's discerning taste in Wii Zapper titles. Brad Pitt's own sister, for example, was less than pleased that her children received a copy of the T-rated game from the actress for Christmas, and apparently sent it back with a slightly indignant note, explaining to Auntie that "We don't promote violence in our home."

This apparently trivial celebrity tale probably raises lots of important questions concerning violent video game content and the role of parents. But we have our own questions -- vital questions -- that need answers. Questions such as: Did Jolie get the game cheap? Does she have her own dolphin-shaped Zapper? And if so ... does she read us?! Hai Angelina!

[Via Game Politics]

JoystiqAngelina Jolie buys Ghost Squad, promotes violence originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jan 2008 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angelina-joliecelebrityghost-squadlightgunsegawii-zapperWed, 16 Jan 2008 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Roll your own ugly Wii Zapper using LEGOs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/roll-your-own-ugly-wii-zapper-using-legos/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/roll-your-own-ugly-wii-zapper-using-legos/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/roll-your-own-ugly-wii-zapper-using-legos/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Too cheap to invest in the official Wii Zapper? White plastic not your thing? Tired of sexy curves and long for the pointy edges of the NES days? NeoGAF user Mrklaw's got your back, with a self-made gun housing for the Wii Remote.

It sure ain't pretty, but it is practical; the trigger actually depresses the B button, just like the official Zapper. It looks like it might be a bit unruly to hold, but who are we to judge? Special props go to Mrklaw for not even trying to use consistent colors in his design, instead opting for that cacophony of bright-colored plastic that just screams "LEGO." Kudos.

[Via Nintendo Wii Fanboy]

JoystiqRoll your own ugly Wii Zapper using LEGOs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Dec 2007 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>legonintendoWiiwii-zapperwiizapperzapperMon, 03 Dec 2007 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Perfect Shot is perfect fodder for hysterical headlines]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/perfect-shot-is-perfect-fodder-for-hysterical-headlines/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/perfect-shot-is-perfect-fodder-for-hysterical-headlines/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/26/perfect-shot-is-perfect-fodder-for-hysterical-headlines/#commentsFiled under:



If, like the Washington Post, you expect hysteria to reign over the Zapper, just wait until the mainstream press catches a glimpse of Nyko's contribution to the ever-growing pile of third-party alternatives.

The "Perfect Shot" is the most gun-like shell we've seen to date, a world away from the Zapper's unoffending curves and thoroughly un-gun-like appearance. And we'd bet our very last cent on it provoking outraged bleating from the press (and perhaps even a certain lawyer), who will no doubt make gossamer-thin links between a plastic toy and real-life violence in the process.

So, in a Wii Fanboy world exclusive, we're going to beat them to the punch: if you want to train your child to be a cold-blooded, callous killer, you can pick up the Nyko Perfect Shot for just $13 on Amazon from December 24, and raise a murderer.

JoystiqPerfect Shot is perfect fodder for hysterical headlines originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Nov 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gunnykoshootingviolencewii-zapperzapperMon, 26 Nov 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Link's Crossbow Training]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/metareview-links-crossbow-training/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/metareview-links-crossbow-training/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/metareview-links-crossbow-training/#commentsFiled under:

Four quick explanations for why we're using this lounging lizard for the metareview's post image:
  1. Uh, he's green. Just like Link.
  2. As you can tell from his pose, he's not too impressed with Link's Crossbow Training.
  3. Look at the damn guy. Do we really need to explain ourselves? We wish we could do a metareview on the lizard instead.
  4. Consider the lizard a bonus that we're throwing in with this metareview bundle.
Priced ridiculously low at $20, Nintendo's Zapper bundle seems like an easy buy for most gamers, but for those of you who're waiting for impressions on its pack-in game, Link's Crossbow Training, we've got you covered.

GameDaily -- 80%: While GameDaily feels there's enough in there to keep you playing longer than just an hour or two, the reviewer still wishes there was more to the game: "Although it doesn't have as many options (Practice, four person multiplayer) as Nintendo's famous pack-in, Wii Sports, Crossbow Training will keep you entertained for hours, especially if you love Zelda. And yet, it could have been so much better. Had the developers programmed online leader boards, millions of trigger happy gamers could compete with each other for the best scores."

IGN -- 70%: IGN disagrees and says there's less than an hour's worth of content, but is willing to forgive the game due to its cheap price: "Lasting Appeal: Over in less than an hour. A two-player mode cannot be played simultaneously. Even getting all platinums in levels is not overly difficult. But again, it's only $19.99."

NintendoWorldReport -- 60%: NWR also has some complaints with Link's Crossbow Training's "multiplayer" support: "The game also features a multiplayer mode that misses on almost every level. Up to four players can be chosen, and then any one level can be chosen. Players then pass the Zapper around as they each play the stage alone. This passive multiplayer would make sense if they were doing it to maintain the integrity of high scores, but high scores aren't even recorded when playing in this mode. Overall, just don't expect the game to be a huge party hit, as most of the people will be sitting and watching, awaiting their turns."

JoystiqMetareview: Link's Crossbow Training originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Nov 2007 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionbundlelinks-crossbow-trainingminigameNintendoWii-ZapperzapperZeldaWed, 21 Nov 2007 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[House of the Dead 2 & 3 Wii-vival official, co-op confirmed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/house-of-the-dead-2-and-3-wii-vival-official-co-op-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/house-of-the-dead-2-and-3-wii-vival-official-co-op-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/19/house-of-the-dead-2-and-3-wii-vival-official-co-op-confirmed/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Hot off of last week's confirmation by Sega that House of the Dead would indeed return to the Wii next spring, the company this morning made it all nice and official, announcing The House of the Dead 2 & 3 Return, a compilation of the second and third games in the zombie shooter series.

While some may be disappointed that this collection turns a blind eye to House of the Dead 4, those eager to shoot at freshly-exhumed corpses can look forward to gunning down the undead alone in Arcade and Time Attack modes, as well as shoulder-to-shoulder with a friend in co-op multiplayer. In addition, with this announcement following Capcom's release of its on-rails kill-fest Resident Evil: Umbrella Chronicles and with Sega's Ghost Squad on the horizon, we can't help but hope that what we're seeing is a resurgence in the popularity of light gun shooters, which couldn't make us happier, what with these days arcades being reduced to little more than a campfire story.

JoystiqHouse of the Dead 2 & 3 Wii-vival official, co-op confirmed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Nov 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>house-of-the-deadhouseofthedeadhouseofthedeadwiisegaWiiwii-zapperwiizapperMon, 19 Nov 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Washington Post expects Wii Zapper backlash, too gun-like]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/washington-post-expects-wii-zapper-backlash-too-gun-like/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/washington-post-expects-wii-zapper-backlash-too-gun-like/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/washington-post-expects-wii-zapper-backlash-too-gun-like/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The Wii Zapper/Link's Crossbow Training bundle drops tomorrow -- a relatively surreptitious release considering some of the other holiday giants coming out this week. However, something tells us that the political backlash to Nintendo's kinda-gun-shaped-but-not-really peripheral will be anything but furtive -- and Washington Post writer Monica Hesse agrees.

In her article, she gives a brief history of toy guns, and how the Zapper fits into the grand saga of controversial faux weaponry. Some of her sources are firmly opposed to the idea of bringing a gun attachment to the otherwise kid-friendly system, but we feel that 14-year-old Damian Crisafulli's response to paranoid parents is the most insightful soundbite in the whole story: "It's plastic that clips to a video game controller." Well said, Damian.

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqWashington Post expects Wii Zapper backlash, too gun-like originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 18 Nov 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ControversyViolenceWaPoWiiWii-ZapperZapperSun, 18 Nov 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[House of the Dead 2 & 3 Wii-vived in early '08]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/house-of-the-dead-2-and-3-wii-vived-in-early-08/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/house-of-the-dead-2-and-3-wii-vived-in-early-08/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/house-of-the-dead-2-and-3-wii-vived-in-early-08/#commentsFiled under:


GameFly has listed House of the Dead 2 & 3 for the Wii as launching March 31, '08. After contacting Sega, Joystiq has confirmed that this game is real, though the publisher isn't ready to make the "official" announcement yet. GameFly has a good record when it comes to revealing new titles companies aren't ready to talk about, mostly due to its robotic nature of tossing up the info as soon as it comes down the supply chain. GameFly does not lie -- unless the publisher has no idea what it's doing.

Wii detractors will be quick to point out that House of the Dead 2 & 3 aren't the latest in the series (that would be HotD 4) and are considerably "last-gen" at this point. House of the Dead will join Sega's other light-gun title, Ghost Squad, and Capcom's Resident Evil: Umbrella Chronicles in giving purpose to the Wii Zapper. As much as getting half-decade old arcade ports makes us roll our eyes at the Wii, it's still cool to play House of the Dead without having to hunt down one of last arcades left in the States (and it's not like traditional lightguns work on our fancy HDTVs either!)

[Thanks, Hvnlysoldr]

JoystiqHouse of the Dead 2 & 3 Wii-vived in early '08 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Nov 2007 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>house-of-the-deadhouseofthedeadhouseofthedeadwiiWiiwii-zapperwiizapperThu, 15 Nov 2007 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[New Link's Crossbow Training screens show us old haunts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/30/new-links-crossbow-training-screens-show-us-old-haunts/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/30/new-links-crossbow-training-screens-show-us-old-haunts/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/30/new-links-crossbow-training-screens-show-us-old-haunts/#commentsFiled under:

Those of you salivating for a quick dose of Link's Crossbow Training, fret no more! New screens have arrived, for your viewing pleasure. The quality of these shots aren't as nice as the ones we previously showed you, but you can get the gist of the game.

For the most part, you're put in Twilight Princess environments (like the Snowpeak Ruins, shown above). This makes sense, considering the game is only a pack-in using the Twilight Princess engine, but it might not be enough to inspire Europeans to shell out the extra cash for a zapper. We suppose only time will tell.

JoystiqNew Link's Crossbow Training screens show us old haunts originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Oct 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionLinks-crossbow-trainingNintendoWii-ZapperzapperzeldaTue, 30 Oct 2007 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: On design]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/28/wii-warm-up-on-design/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/28/wii-warm-up-on-design/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/28/wii-warm-up-on-design/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We know a lot of you don't much care for the design on the Wii Zapper. No worries -- not everyone around here is sold, either. Even people who've had their hands on it don't always seem to like it. Which aspect is it, exactly, that turns you off, if you are in fact turned off? Is it the simple fact that it seems unnecessary with the pointing power of the Wii remote? Is it a specific part of the design? Point it out. Feel free to scribble pictures; we love to see your creative powers at work.

If you do like it, what about the design appeals to you?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: On design originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 28 Oct 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Wii-ZapperZapperSun, 28 Oct 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Link's Crossbow Training trailer hits the mark]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/15/links-crossbow-training-trailer-hits-the-mark/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/15/links-crossbow-training-trailer-hits-the-mark/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/15/links-crossbow-training-trailer-hits-the-mark/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We have no idea why Nintendo decided to use house music for this Link's Crossbow Training trailer, but if it bothers you that much, you could always just turn down the volume on the Flash video player and make "pew pew" noises, like we did, to go along with the action instead.

The minute-long clip has a lot of scenes recognizable from The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, but they've been refitted to accomodate the new Wii Zapper and Link's mounted bow. You'll be able to shoot birds flying overhead, Duck Hunt style, and gun down a line of Stalfoses in the pack-in game's three different modes; let's just hope that this synth-heavy song won't be included on the soundtrack when the bundle shows up at stores this November 19th.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqLink's Crossbow Training trailer hits the mark originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Oct 2007 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionlinks-crossbow-trainingNintendotrailerWii-ZapperzapperzeldaMon, 15 Oct 2007 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq hands-on: Link's Crossbow Training (Wii)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/15/joystiq-hands-on-links-crossbow-training/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/15/joystiq-hands-on-links-crossbow-training/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/15/joystiq-hands-on-links-crossbow-training/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Reaching back to the glory days of light guns, the Wii Zapper steals the name of Nintendo's classic NES controller, but the two are fundamentally different. The previous light gun used a mechanic to essentially see what was on-screen, so the gun sight actually corresponded with the action. The Wii Zapper instead is just a plastic shell to hold a Wii Remote and Nunchuk. The Wiimote pointer continues to work through IR triangulation; players can't sight down the new attachment.

I recently played the Wii Zapper pack-in, Link's Crossbow Training, and was surprised at how good the Wii Zapper felt and how well the game responded. Shooting from the hip -- sometimes literally -- I maintained good control over the on-screen cross-hair. I still prefer the precision of a light gun's sight, but knocking down Zelda-themed bad guys in a series of game scenarios was still fun.

Gallery: Link's Crossbow Training

Continue reading Joystiq hands-on: Link's Crossbow Training (Wii)

JoystiqJoystiq hands-on: Link's Crossbow Training (Wii) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Oct 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlecrossbowcrossbow-trainingcrossbowtrainingfirst-person-shooterfirstpersonshooterhyruleirlight-gunlightgunlinklink's-crossbow-traininglink'scrossbowtrainingpack-inshooterwiiwii-remotewii-zapperwiimotewiiremotewiizapperzapperzeldaMon, 15 Oct 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Link's Crossbow Training aims screenshots at your eyes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/links-crossbow-training-aims-screenshots-at-your-eyes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/links-crossbow-training-aims-screenshots-at-your-eyes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/links-crossbow-training-aims-screenshots-at-your-eyes/#commentsFiled under:


GoNintendo posted some new screens of the game that's riding along with the Zapper "peripheral", Link's Crossbow Training. And this shouldn't come as much of a surprise, given its provenance, but it looks a whole lot like Twilight Princess!

In these screens, we can see the "Stalfos Defender" game, which looks pretty much like anyone would imagine it: a bunch of Stalfoses walk up to you crossbowably, and you shoot them-- with a crossbow. Other events depicted include a balloon-shooting game, a bird-shooting game, and, of course, the game in which you shoot Gorons in the junk. Basically, if it's in Twilight Princess, and it doesn't seem like it would enjoy being crossbowed, you can crossbow it in this game. We can get behind a concept like that.


JoystiqLink's Crossbow Training aims screenshots at your eyes originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2007 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionlinks-crossbow-trainingNintendoWii-ZapperzapperzeldaFri, 12 Oct 2007 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[American Nintendo Media Summit reveals Crossbow Training details]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/11/american-nintendo-media-summit-reveals-crossbow-training-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/11/american-nintendo-media-summit-reveals-crossbow-training-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/11/american-nintendo-media-summit-reveals-crossbow-training-details/#commentsFiled under:


IGN editors and other not-us members of the press are at the American equivalent to yesterday's crazy megaton-tastic Nintendo conference, and they thoughtfully liveblogged the presentation for the rest of us.

It sounds like they're embargoed against revealing too much or publishing detailed videos, which means that, for now, we've got textual reports of the news. Luckily, most of the event consists of a Smash Bros. gameplay demo, which we don't really need to talk about in detail. Guys are playing Brawl! UPDATE: They are enjoying themselves! There's also a short demo of Super Mario Galaxy in much the same vein.

The newest news is about the Zapper pack-in Link's Crossbow Training, about which we formerly knew almost nothing, and now know some things. Matt Casamassina mentions in passing that the game will feature "Score attack. Multiplayer, etc." though it isn't known if this is true for all of the game's modes or only for certain exercises.

One gametype is based on the Ordon Target Training sequence in Twilight Princess, and rewards you for shooting targets while penalizing you for shooting chickens. The "Defender" mode is actually called Stalfos defenders, and has Link defending against skeletal Stalfoses by, well, shooting them with a crossbow.

JoystiqAmerican Nintendo Media Summit reveals Crossbow Training details originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Oct 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionbrawllinks-crossbow-trainingNintendonintendo-conferenceWii-ZapperzapperZeldaThu, 11 Oct 2007 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: New Wii SKU to hit this holiday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/02/rumor-new-wii-sku-to-hit-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/02/rumor-new-wii-sku-to-hit-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/02/rumor-new-wii-sku-to-hit-this-holiday/#commentsFiled under:


According to an anonymous supplier, Codename Revolution has the scoop on a supposed new SKU coming to retail for the holiday season. Currently dubbed "New Pack," no word yet on exactly what this new SKU could mean. All we know now is that it has a UPC of "045496880088,″ which comes back as being owned by Nintendo.

Whether this is a new bundle (we're betting it's a bundled Super Mario Galaxy or Smash Bros. Brawl bundle, or perhaps one including the Wii Zapper), has yet to be determined. Don't hold your breath for a new Wii unit itself, as it's unlikely Nintendo will do a hardware revision to the console this early in its lifespan. Especially considering the popularity of the console as it is now.

JoystiqRumor: New Wii SKU to hit this holiday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Oct 2007 22:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>skusmash-bros-brawlsmashbrosbrawlsuper-mario-galaxysupermariogalaxywii-zapperwiizapperzapperTue, 02 Oct 2007 22:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Zapper and Link's Crossbow Training packaging, details]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/21/wii-zapper-and-links-crossbow-training-packaging-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/21/wii-zapper-and-links-crossbow-training-packaging-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/21/wii-zapper-and-links-crossbow-training-packaging-details/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Along with releasing a boxart preview of its upcoming Wii Zapper (due 11/19/07), Nintendo also shed some light on its bundled game, Link's Crossbow Training, earlier today. The shooter will have 27 stages in total over three different modes -- Target Shooting, Defender, and Ranger -- all of them multiplayer, but played one at a time.

Target Shooting plays as expected, asking you to hit bull's-eyes as they pop up and move around the screen. Defender pits you against a variety of enemies charging towards you from all directions; you can to aim off screen to turn Link and face your attackers. While playing in the Ranger mode, you can actually move Link by using the nunchuck's control stick, exploring and fighting your way through the different missions.

Blast past the post break for close-up shots of the Wii Zapper logo and the Link's Crossbow Training bit.

Continue reading Wii Zapper and Link's Crossbow Training packaging, details

JoystiqWii Zapper and Link's Crossbow Training packaging, details originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Sep 2007 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionlight-gunlinks-crossbow-trainingNintendowii-zapperzapperzeldaFri, 21 Sep 2007 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Zapper, board, or wheel?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/21/wii-warm-up-zapper-board-or-wheel/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/21/wii-warm-up-zapper-board-or-wheel/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/21/wii-warm-up-zapper-board-or-wheel/#commentsFiled under:


We don't much discuss the Zapper, balance board, and steering wheel accessories coming down the pipe by themselves -- usually, we discuss them in relation to various games. However, considering them on their own, how do you feel about these accessories? Is there one you find yourself more interested in than the others? Personally, we like the balance board, despite the hefty price tag (in comparison), and think it seems to have interesting potential. But we're only one voice. How do you feel?

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Zapper, board, or wheel? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Sep 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesbalance-boardbalanceboardsteering-wheelsteeringwheelwii-zapperwiizapperFri, 21 Sep 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Jersey parents fret over Wii's 'gun-like' Zapper]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/new-jersey-parents-fret-over-wiis-gun-like-zapper/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/new-jersey-parents-fret-over-wiis-gun-like-zapper/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/new-jersey-parents-fret-over-wiis-gun-like-zapper/#commentsFiled under: ,


New Jersey's The Star-Ledger ran a poll on its "Parental Guidance" blog earlier this week, asking its readers to comment on Nintendo's Wii Zapper, a peripheral meant to house the Wii remote and nunchuck in a vaguely rifle-like shape. Describing it as a "gun-like remote" and a "wand in the shape of a weapon" certainly didn't help matters, as the poll was duly inundated by parents wary of their children becoming vicious, gun-toting mini-gangsters.

One reader inadvertently praised Nintendo's clumsy plastic shell design by failing to discern a difference between it (see above image) and a real weapon. "Great, this is what we need. Children with guns learning how to aim and shoot. Then we can sit back and wonder what is happening to our country with kids killing kids......what's next?" A fair question to ask, especially when you're a powerless parent forced to sit back and wonder "what is happening" in a world where video games poison our armed children. Not that the Zapper can teach anybody to operate a gun on the outset -- it's really more of crossbow training tool.

Another parent was a little more introspective and wondered, "What kind of message are we sending as parents when we buy these things for our kids?" Aside from highlighting mommy's inability to say "No, you can't have that," past experience with the Zapper would reveal the message to be a compelling argument for hunting ducks and, failing that, any stupid-looking dogs in the neighborhood. Kids shoot the darndest things.

[Via Nintendo Wii Fanboy]

JoystiqNew Jersey parents fret over Wii's 'gun-like' Zapper originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Sep 2007 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Duck-HuntLinks-Crossbow-TrainingWiiWii-ZapperWiiZapperZapperFri, 14 Sep 2007 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: Zapper pack-in revealed?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/10/wii-warm-up-zapper-pack-in-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/10/wii-warm-up-zapper-pack-in-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/10/wii-warm-up-zapper-pack-in-revealed/#commentsFiled under: ,

According to a rumor attributed to an EB/Gamestop conference in Las Vegas, the game that'll come with the Zapper is ... Link's Crossbow Training.

Yep.

JoystiqWii Warm Up: Zapper pack-in revealed? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Sep 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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