3DS News

May2012

  • News Heroes of Ruin Pushed to 17th July in North America

    Still on course for Europe

    Promising 3DS action adventure Heroes of Ruin's North American release date just took heavy damage, skulking off to 17th July. Developer n-Space didn't give any reason for the delay — which only affects North America — simply saying on its Facebook page: A note to our valued Heroes of Ruin fans and supporters... We...

  • News Spy Hunter Set to Burn Rubber on 3DS

    Start your engines

    Warner Bros. is set to have another go at refuelling its Spy Hunter franchise with the smartly named Spy Hunter for 3DS later this year. It ticks all the right boxes so far — you play the "Agent" and must use a car and weapons to overthrow a terrorist organisation — but of course we all want to know how it'll use the 3DS...

  • News Mario Tennis Takes Second in Japanese Charts

    3DS on top, again

    The most recent Media Create results for the Japanese charts are in, and Nintendo can be quite pleased with the outcome. The software results are slightly less impressive than normal due to a glut of new releases on other platforms, though Mario Tennis Open made a solid debut at number two, coming in behind Capcom's Dragon's Dogma...

  • Feature Games We'd Love to See at E3

    We're dreaming

    This year’s Nintendo E3 conference is drawing a lot of attention because of Wii U, with the new console giving the company a big chance to seize the day. When it comes to the showcase press conference, however, there’s always one thing that is guaranteed to get the fans excited: games, games and more games. Give Reggie Fils-Aime,...

  • News Zen Studios Reveals CastleStorm for "Nintendo Digital Platforms"

    Including eShop

    3DS owners, it's a good job you like castles. Yesterday we had Castlevania: Lords of Shadow — Mirror of Fate confirmed and today Zen Studios — yes, the pinball guys — announced CastleStorm for "Nintendo digital platforms". The tower defence/strategy hybrid was officially confirmed for the 3DS eShop but Zen has said it's in...

  • News UK 3D Photography Fans to Enter Another Dimension

    It's a competition you see

    Nintendo UK just announced a new 3D photography initiative called Another Dimension, heading to the UK from next week. Interested 3DS owners can head out on special photography field trips with celebrities, like pop group The Saturdays or bird-botherer Bill Oddie, with their 3D snaps displayed as part of an installation...

  • News Go To Mensa Academy to Train Your Brain

    On its way to PAL regions

    The Brain Training series has been big business for Nintendo, and has therefore seen rival titles emerge to compete for our brain time. The latest to enter the fray is Square Enix — collaborating with IQ specialists Mensa — to try and help us make the most of our grey matter. Mensa Academy is set to arrive in Europe...

  • News Shin Megami Tensei 4 is 3DS-Bound

    It never ends

    Good news for fans of demons: Atlus is bringing Shin Megami Tensei 4 to 3DS. Famitsu (via Andriasang) brings the good news that work is underway on the game, though there's no other details at the moment. But hey, SMT4 is coming to 3DS. We'll take that. Last year 3DS owners in North America got Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor...

  • News We'll Learn New Monster Hunter 4 Details Next Month

    Get ready for a tail spin

    Last year's revelation of 3DS exclusive Monster Hunter 4 was a big moment, but since then we haven't heard much more about Capcom's inevitably monstrous hit. Well, that'll end at the end of June, when the publisher releases more details at a Japanese event. Capcom Summer Jam takes place in Tokyo from 30th June to 1st July...

  • News Rayman Arrives on North American eShop This Week

    Not just in Europe

    We normally find out about the North American download offerings on Thursday each week, but we've been advised ahead of time that Rayman will be hitting the 3DS Virtual Console stateside. Europe gets the Game Boy Color title this week too, so gamers on both sides of the Atlantic will have the chance to warm up ahead of the...

  • News New Castlevania Title Confirmed for 3DS

    Nintendo Power with big reveal

    Last week we shared a rumour that a new Castlevania title was in development for 3DS: it seems that the rumour was true, as it's now been revealed in Nintendo Power. It's to be called Castlevania: Lords of Shadow — Mirror of Fate, which isn't the snappiest game title that we've heard. Details from the magazine,...

  • News Natsume Stops Teasing, Reveals Harvest Moon: A New Beginning

    So we can all stop guessing

    You can stop scratching your head now: Natsume's finally announced that Harvest Moon: A New Beginning is coming to North America. After nine teasers that had fans guessing everything from Lufia to Medabots, Natsume confirmed the new name for Japanese hit Bokujou Monogatari: Haijmari no Daichi (roughly "First...

  • News Mario Tennis Open Just Misses UK Top Ten

    Top of the 3DS chart, though

    Mario Tennis Open has arrived in time for the summer season of tennis grand slams and typical summer delights such as strawberries and cream and, of course, sunburn. With some interesting 3DS titles on the way in the next couple of months that could be described as 'core' games, to put it crudely, Mario's tennis outing...

  • News Natsume Teases Announcement of 'Celebration' Game

    What could it be?

    While some publishers or developers like to tease with vague images or high-production trailers, others do it the old-fashioned way — with hints to puzzle our gaming minds. Natsume, publisher of recent titles such as Harvest Moon 3D: The Tale of Two Towns and Gabrielle's Ghostly Groove, along with a significant number of titles...

  • News Doubts About Monster Hunter 3 G Worldwide Release

    We're still hoping

    Monster Hunter 3 G has been, as expected, a success since its Japanese release in late 2011, surpassing 1.5 million sales. We've been waiting for news of a confirmed worldwide release, but have only had rumours and speculation in place of formal announcements. Some on the ground in Japan seem to doubt that the release will come at...

  • News Support Redux: Dark Matters Kickstarter and it Could Come to 3DS

    Dreamcast version could bankroll a Nintendo release

    Kickstarter campaigns are certainly in fashion right now, with everyone and their auntie turning up cap in hand to plead for your support and cash. However, while we're not massively keen on seeing developers we respect begging for financial aid, there are more than a few campaigns out there that...

  • News Samurai Warriors 3DS Sequel Confirmed for Japan

    Hacking and Slashing on 13th September

    Samurai Warrors: Chronicles was a 3DS title that divided opinion: some loved the hack and slash battles while others complained that it was too simplistic. Although critics and gamers don't often agree on the series' merits, it doesn't seem to matter, as more and more titles are released for its loyal fanbase...

  • News Level-5 Trademarks Professor Layton and Miracle Mask

    A puzzling reveal possible at E3

    It's no secret that Professor Layton and the Mask of Miracle will eventually be released worldwide. It was a 3DS launch title in Japan, and although we always have to be patient, the puzzle-master with the wonderful hat always makes his way to the West. According to recent reports, that arrival may not be far away...

  • News Register Mario Tennis Open This Week, Get 250 Bonus Stars

    So be quick

    UK Club Nintendo members, listen up. If you register Mario Tennis Open on Club Nintendo before 28th May, you'll get an extra 250 Stars added to your account. That's all there is to it. Read our Mario Tennis Open review if you're on the fence about picking up Mario's bat and ball outing on 3DS.

  • News LEGO Batman 2 Trailer Comes Down Like a Ton of Bricks

    Visit Gotham City

    LEGO Batman 2: DC Super Heroes for Wii and its 3DS counterpart are out in a month, which is more than enough time to watch this new trailer showing its open-world take on Bruce Wayne's home city. It's got all the things you'd want from a LEGO DC trailer — The Flash running fast, The Joker laughing maniacally and a pie calling on...

  • News 3DS Passes Six Million Sales in Japan

    And in 'The Americas', probably

    We all know that 3DS has been doing well in Japan recently, consistently out-performing all other consoles combined on a weekly basis. Nevertheless, it's just passed yet another landmark — six millions sales. As reported by Andriasang, retail tracker Enterbrain has confirmed that it passed the mark last week, with...

  • News Mighty Switch Force Update to Remaster All Levels

    Free is the magic word

    We already know that WayForward Technologies is entering into the world of eShop DLC with five additional levels in Europe this week, available for free if you already own the game or included with new purchases. The developer has now posted a new entry on its website blog stating that the updated version will have more to...

  • News 3DS Nears 1 Million Units Sold in UK

    But slower than DS

    According to Pocket Gamer, 3DS is on the cusp of hitting the 1 million sales mark in the United Kingdom. The site claims the console sits just below 950k units after 61 weeks on shelves. By comparison, the original DS sold its first million after 51 weeks, so 3DS clearly still has some ground to make up. Last year Nintendo of...

  • Rumour Castlevania Title in Development for 3DS

    Could be called Mirror of Faith/Fate

    The Castlevania franchise has been prolific on Nintendo's handhelds, with six titles evenly split between Game Boy Advance and DS. It wouldn't be too much of a surprise if Konami was planning a new entry for the series on 3DS, and in typical pre-E3 fashion a rumour has emerged online. The story has appeared on...

  • News Pinball Arcade Coming To 3DS and Wii U

    Kickstarter campaign for The Twilight Zone table underway

    While 3DS owners may have had a taste of stereoscopic pinball with Zen Pinball 3D on the eShop, there's always room for more flippin' action on the system. It seems that those prayers will be answered by Pinball Arcade from FarSight Studios, which is said to be 'coming soon' on 3DS and,...

  • Feature Launching a Console Without Mario

    No mascot on day one

    In recent weeks we've been looking at console launches, as preparation for the pre-launch hype for Wii U that's set to begin at E3 2012. So far we've explored console launches in general but also the launch of Wii, a system that notably arrived without a Mario title but has nevertheless achieved major sales success. In some...

  • News Scour the UK for Mario Tennis Open Yoshi QR Codes

    Smash and grab

    Mario Tennis Open launches in the UK next week, and Nintendo is launching a nationwide treasure hunt for you to grab multicoloured Yoshis. On 25th and 26th May select Asda stores will give away the Black Yoshi via a special in-store QR code: scan it with your 3DS and Black Yoshi is yours to keep. Nintendo will release white, blue and...

  • News This Rhythm Thief Concert is Seriously Groovy

    Feel the beat

    Rhythm Thief & the Emperor's Treasure is a title perfectly suited to 3DS, with its numerous bite-size rhythm levels and quirky humour, and is definitive proof that SEGA can still give us fun games. One of its best features is the funky and toe-tapping soundtrack, so we were pretty pleased when we discovered this footage of a music...

  • Review Mario Tennis Open (3DS)

    Open season

    Camelot's revered Mario Tennis series has a split legacy: on home consoles as a primarily multiplayer-focused insane-o-thon, and on portables as a more solo-oriented sports RPG. Mario Tennis Open falls somewhere in between, trying to capture the best of both worlds in the most accessible way possible. In many ways Camelot succeeds in its...

  • News Rayman Origins 3DS Hits North America on 5th June

    Reduced price and launch trailer may tempt you

    After delays and some mystery, we finally have the North American release date for Rayman Origins: 5th June. That's three days before it arrives in Europe, and less than three weeks away for those who've been impatiently awaiting its arrival. Ubisoft has also confirmed the price for the U.S., which is a...

  • News Colour-Based AR Patent is Hot Stuff

    You'll see what we mean

    The augmented reality games bundled with the 3DS are all well and good, but many of you want more. Nintendo's applied for a patent on a new colour-based AR concept that would make a very welcome addition to the system's AR suite. The document refers to using colour to influence the game world, giving several intriguing...

  • News E.X. Troopers Trailer Released

    Big guns and jet packs included

    Just yesterday we told you about a Lost Planet spin off called EX Troopers that was confirmed for 3DS. We're already learning more about the game, including the fact that it's actually called E.X. Troopers, and that when Capcom teased an anime style, it wasn't kidding. The E.X. Troopers official web site has been...

  • News Nintendo and USTA Team Up for Some Tennis Doubles

    Going on a U.S. tour

    The upcoming launch of Mario Tennis Open is coinciding with the start of summer, warm days and the prospect of taking to the courts in real life. It's also launching at the same time as the USTA SmashZone Mobile Tour, which encourages young people to try the sport; so a doubles team has naturally followed. The SmashZone tour is...

  • News Nintendo Still Top of Japanese Charts Despite Sales Drop

    Not a golden week

    Last week was a major holiday in Japan, and the Japanese charts brought golden results for Nintendo. This week brings more of the same in terms of chart positions, but it seems that all games and platforms have endured a major dip in sales after all of that holiday splurging. As reported by Andriasang, Mario Party 9 retains top...

  • Talking Point DS Games Deserve Digital Distribution on 3DS

    Too good to ignore

    Not long ago, we brought you a feature on Bargain Bin DS Games, detailing some excellent games available for relatively little money. The response to the article highlighted how many little-known or under-appreciated gems the DS library has, as it seems to have been a platform that encouraged a lot of creativity from developers...

  • News Kingdom Hearts 3D Gets Mark of Mastery Special Edition

    Coming to (North) America

    Consider quantifying your excitement for Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance into financial form. What number would it be? Square Enix hopes some of you will have come up with the number $54.99, as that's what it's asking for the game's special edition. The Mark of Mastery edition — so far only announced for North...

  • News Organise a Big Kid Icarus Event, Win Prizes

    Nintendo lays down shiny gauntlets

    Every time Nintendo announces an event somewhere in the world, the response is always the same: "why couldn't it be where I live?" That won't be a problem on 19th May, as Nintendo is encouraging fans all over the world to hold their own events for Kid Icarus: Uprising. Designating 19th May as...

  • News FIFA 13 in Development for Wii U

    Also on 3DS and Wii

    It's another year, so that means another FIFA game from EA Sports, an annual tradition that's never missed. The developer recently hosted a big reveal of features that will be new to this year's entry: Complete Dribbling will allow greater skill on the ball, First Touch Control will make the initial touch from a player more...

  • News Project X Zone Details Sure to Push Buttons

    More characters and attack styles

    As Project X Zone gets closer to its Japanese release, the hype-machine is building up nicely with regular reveals and teasers. First up are combat details: Support Attacks will allow fellow team members within roughly eight spaces to perform a one time follow-up attack to inflict extra damage. Meanwhile, if the...

  • News Lost Planet Spin-Off Ex Troopers Confirmed for 3DS

    Shooting things in 3D

    With a solid six months of strong sales, especially in Japan, we may see a gradual increase in 3DS titles in development. The latest to be revealed by Famitsu, as translated by Andriasang, is Ex Troopers from Capcom, an action shooting title. The title shares some elements with the Lost Planet series from the HD consoles —...

  • News If Only This F-Zero 3DS Advert Was Real

    All a dream

    Eyeball-melting speed and glasses-free 3D would be such a happy combination. While Nintendo stays silent on the future of F-Zero, fan Jan Neves has taken the initiative and created a trailer for the smartly named F-Zero 3DX. Footage from F-Zero GX blends with the Blue Falcon flying out of the 3DS top screen. If Nintendo ever does publish...

  • News Ben 10 and Friends Join Wii U Line-Up

    Omniverse us

    The Wii U announcements are coming thick and fast these days. Last week it was Marvel Avengers: Battle for Earth and Cloudberry Kingdom; this week it's Ben 10: Omniverse. D3Publisher's next outing for the boy with multiple personalities will reach every current Nintendo format later this year, with development on the home console...

  • News Nintendo Patents 'Ornamental Design' for 3DS Circle Pad

    It's so pretty

    One of the first things we noticed when Satoru Iwata stood on stage at E3 2010 with a 3DS was the Circle Pad. Some called it a slider pad, others opted for analogue stick: whatever name you chose, it ultimately meant that Nintendo was giving us analogue control in its shiny new handheld. It's since given us the Circle Pad Pro to...

  • News 10 Minutes of English Kingdom Hearts 3D Footage

    Mouse click

    Three months ago we brought you a Japanese trailer for Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance, and now we bring you the same video in English. You've only got a few more months to wait until Sora and friends land in the West in 3D. Make the wait go quicker by watching the video repeatedly. And no, sadly that isn't Jeff Bridges' real...

  • News Mario Kart 7 Update Available Now

    Commence updating!

    The exploit-fixing update for Mario Kart 7 is available now. It patches up glaring shortcuts in the game's Wuhu Island Loop, Wuhu Mountain Loop and GBA Bowser Castle 1 courses. You won't be able to play online if you don't download the update, so hopefully this'll level the online playing field. Here's how to update your game: 1)...

  • Review Shifting World (3DS)

    Less was more

    In 2008, a Flash-based platformer/puzzle game called Shift was released online. Its gameplay was a model of brilliant simplicity: levels were constructed from black and white blocks, and the Shift key would flip the room upside down, turn background objects solid and push previously solid objects into the background. It was a premise...

  • News Aqua Blue 3DS Discontinuation Only Affects Japan

    So cheer up

    Last week we learnt that Nintendo Japan is discontinuing the Aqua Blue 3DS, and we anxiously wondered what it might mean for us in the West. We've heard back from Nintendo Europe now and it's good news. The official line is that "this announcement is only for the Japanese market", meaning there should be a steady stream of Aqua...

  • News Europe Gets Rayman Origins 3DS Demo This Week

    Grab it

    European 3DS owners can give Rayman's next adventure a fair shake when the eShop updates with a Rayman Origins demo this week. Come Thursday you'll be able to try out the portable port of the limbless hero's latest — and some would say greatest — adventure, ahead of the full game's release in a few weeks' time. Is this one you'll be...

  • News Japanese 3DS Television Service To Be Cancelled

    Itsu no Ma ni Terebi no more

    Since June last year 3DS owners in Japan have had access to Itsu no Ma ni Terebi, a video service that has produced regular and exclusive content via SpotPass. Like the former Wii service Wii no Ma, Nintendo has decided to take the service off the air. In the past year the channel has offered content from Fuji Television...

  • News Nintendo Japan Discontinues Aqua Blue 3DS

    Cobalt from the blue

    Nintendo of Japan will soon end production of the Aqua Blue 3DS console. The company's 3DS page lists the currently available colours, with Aqua Blue bearing the note "scheduled to end production shortly" (近日生産終了予定). In March, Nintendo released the Cobalt Blue 3DS for Japan, so it makes sense to stick...

  • News Dynasty Warriors VS Won't Come Westward

    Region locked

    Dynasty Warriors VS won't leave Japan. Tecmo Koei community manager Chin Soon Sun made the pronouncement on Twitter: Dynasty Warriors VS (for the Nintendo 3DS) - This title is for Japan only & will not be localized and released for / in overseas. Shame — we wanted to enjoy some feudal fighting dressed as Link and Samus.

  • News Xenoblade and Kid Icarus Missing from NPD's April Chart

    For different reasons

    The NPD Group has published its list of best-sellers across the United States for April, but two of Nintendo's biggest titles are nowhere to be seen. Xenoblade Chronicles' exclusivity deal with GameStop meant it wasn't eligible for the top ten. Before the official chart analysts from PiperJaffray had predicted the...

  • News Sakurai Won't Make a Kid Icarus: Uprising Sequel

    Smashing hopes

    We've only just asked if Kid Icarus could be Nintendo's next big franchise, but along comes Kid Icarus: Uprising director Masahiro Sakurai to say he won't create a sequel. IGN asked if Project Sora had created a "lasting universe" the team could return to in future projects, to which Sakurai replied: If by ‘lasting u

  • News Japanese Charts Bring Golden Results for Nintendo

    Holiday week brings extra sales

    It's time for the weekly Japanese charts update, and if you've been reading these articles for the past couple of months you'll already know the story: Nintendo dominates sales in its homeland. The company's performance around the world may be a mixed bag at present, but results in Japan rarely let Satoru Iwata and...

  • Talking Point Nintendo Should Offer Indie Game Bundles

    Competitive download prices for a good cause

    We’re just one month away from the 3DS eShop's first anniversary, a busy period that’s seen the service grow and evolve. A modest start, including a slow-burn of actual 3DS exclusives, made way for a vibrant period of service improvements, game demos and, most importantly, some top quality games. The...

  • News 2D Platformer on 3DS Web Browser Jumps Into View

    Not quite Mario

    Just as we're getting used to the idea that someone is developing a 3DS web browser MMORPG, we hear about a 2D sidescrolling platformer from the same creator. Step forward, Sidescroller, a demo level of which is available to play for free right now. If you go to URL on your 3DS, you'll instantly gain access to a short level, using...

  • News Developers Explain How to Make a 3DS eShop Game

    Patience and perseverance needed

    Just recently we spoke to Trent Oster of Beamdog to learn about WiiWare from a developer's perspective, though his experience had ultimately been negative. Something that we touched upon was that the eShop on 3DS seems to be a better download platform that shows improvements over the Wii Shop, though specific details...

  • News Kid Icarus: Uprising on SNES Might Have Looked Like This

    Pit's on fire

    Forget for a moment that Kid Icarus: Uprising is one of the best displays yet of the 3DS console's stereoscopic screen, and imagine it existing in an altogether simpler time: the 1990s. Talented pixel artist jmatchead (via Pixel Art Guild) has done just that, creating two SNES-style illustrations of Pit's new adventure. Both images...

  • Feature Kid Icarus - Nintendo's Next Big Franchise?

    Taking to the sky

    Whether planned or not, Nintendo has fallen into a routine with its franchises. There’s always a big 3D Mario title and an epic yet delayed Zelda game guaranteed for each system, with a good chance of others such as Metroid and Kirby making an appearance in between. This backbone of core franchises has served Nintendo well over...

  • News New Heroes of Ruin Trailer Heads into Battle

    It has online coop with voice chat, in case you'd forgotten

    As Heroes of Ruin gets closer to its release on 3DS, publisher Square Enix is making sure that we know all about it. It's a title that promises, ultimately, to set a new standard in online gaming on the handheld, with online coop, voice chat, daily challenges and StreetPass all in one...

  • News 3DS Web Browser MMORPG in Beta Development

    Pay and play for $1

    At the start of the year we told you about a Swapnote RPG that had been devised by an enthusiastic game design student. While that involved a fairly conventional use of the app alongside a set of pre-defined rules, there is currently a 3DS web browser MMORPG — massively multiplayer online role playing game — in development...

  • News Mario Kart Wii Races Back into UK Charts

    Olympics still top of the podium

    The UK software chart hasn't been the most eventful or successful arena for Nintendo games recently, with 3DS and particularly Wii titles making only modest appearances. That trend continues this week, with the latest results from UKIE now available. Once again the highest flyer is Mario & Sonic at the London...

  • News Sonic and All-Stars Racing Transformed "A Different Game" to Mario Kart 7

    "We’ve been making this game for 18 months" says producer

    For SEGA fans that also like a bit of karting, racing sequel Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed is sure to be stirring some interest. With 3DS a confirmed platform, some have observed the water and air-based sections of the title as being copied from Mario Kart 7, which isn't...

  • Interview Peter Ong - Disney Epic Mickey: Power of Illusion

    We have a chat with the game's director about Mickey's handheld odyssey

    We're suckers for retro here at Nintendo Life, and we certainly found our interest piqued when Disney Interactive revealed that it's upcoming portable title Disney Epic Mickey: Power of Illusion was to be a 16-bit-style sequel to the Mega Drive's Castle of Illusion Starring...

  • News Sakurai: Dual Analogue Control in Kid Icarus: Uprising Was "Technically Impossible"

    Stylus aiming speed "is on a whole different level"

    Kid Icarus: Uprising enjoyed an excellent critical reception from the majority of the gaming press, though even some of the most positive reviews raised the controls as an issue. We argued that they work well 'with practice' in our Kid Icarus: Uprising review, but it was nevertheless a common...

  • News Dress Up and Win at Kid Icarus Event

    Even if you don't go you can still dress up

    Nintendo UK is currently in the middle of a Kid Icarus: Uprising event tour, giving plucky gamers a chance to take on a 'battle squad' of professional gamers in multiplayer. Participants at the first event at HMV Oxford Circus in London received limited edition posters, while those who triumphed over the...

  • News Mario Party 9 has Sales to Celebrate in the Japanese Chart

    3DS still having a good time

    Although it's been available in PAL regions and North America since March, Mario Party 9 has only just been released in Japan. The Media Create charts, as reported by Andriasang, report that it sold 152,883 copies in its debut week, earning it second place in the charts behind the PS3 version of Resident Evil: Operation...

  • News Bird Mania 3D Confirmed for May Flight in PAL Regions

    Trailer and details inside

    As some of you may already know, Bird Mania 3D arrives in the North American 3DS eShop on 3rd May at a budget price of $1.99. Developer Teyon has now confirmed that the title will also arrive in PAL regions later this month, so it won't take long for Europe to catch up. It appears to be a non-stop 'runner'-style title —...

  • News Wii U Designed to Do The Impossible

    Nintendoes what Nintendidn't

    While Nintendo may have struggled to explain adequately the Wii U's unique charms at E3, the machine was created with one principle in mind: to do what Wii can't. Nintendo president Satoru Iwata told investors that while being an improved Wii — it does full HD output for a start — it's designed to be a brand new...

  • News Nintendo "Very Eager" to Help Third Party 3DS Developers

    Mi casa es su casa

    As we all expected, so far Nintendo's arguably made the best use of the 3DS's stereoscopic screen, but it's not all high and mighty about it — it wants to help third party developers get up to the same level. Nintendo president Satoru Iwata told investors the company would happily pass on knowledge of how to leverage the 3DS...

  • News Iwata Defends Identical Digital and Retail Prices

    Value perception is key

    When retail games hit the 3DS eShop in August, they'll cost around the same as they do in stores, a practice many believe is counter-intuitive: without the costs of physical manufacturing and distribution, digital games sidestep many costs. But Nintendo president Satoru Iwata disagrees, claiming download games have a...

  • News GameStop Won't Be Selling Spirit Camera Second-Hand

    Frightening

    Hoping to grab a cheap pre-owned copy of Spirit Camera: The Cursed Memoir from GameStop? Sorry, your luck is out — the chain won't be trading in Nintendo's augmented reality experience. The reason is the game relies on an intricate book bundled with new copies; without the book, the software's useless. Even a missing page could halt...

  • News More Mario Tennis Open Details Served Up

    Piranha plants, online play and StreetPass

    With the release of Mario Tennis Open getting ever closer, Nintendo is starting to tease more details about game modes and features. Today's update is a mixture of the old and the new, reiterating that online leaderboards and unlockable characters will be included. There is some new information, such as...

  • News Nintendo Readying Third Party Retail Downloads Too

    Nothing to announce yet

    We know the majority of Nintendo games will be released digitally once the retail download service kicks off in August, but Nintendo's confirmed it's preparing a service for third parties to release their packaged games digitally too. A Nintendo spokesperson told IGN: We are currently preparing a program for third parties...

April2012

  • News UK Charts Bring More of the Same for Nintendo

    Not better, not worse

    In the coming weeks and months, it's safe to say that Satoru Iwata and the managerial team at Nintendo HQ will be monitoring the progress of UK sales, after telling investors that, for one, Mario's presence in the country is the 'smallest in the world'. It's too early for that to have changed, and the latest top 40 software...

  • News Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed Hits 3DS

    He's back

    After endless rumours, SEGA's lifted the lid on Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed for Nintendo 3DS. The racer sees Sonic and friends racing in cars that also transform for aquatic and aerial travel. That might sound a little familiar to Mario Kart 7 veterans, but developer Sumo Digital has assured fans it's very different: you race...

  • News Brain Training 3DS Confirmed for Worldwide Release

    Available in both physical and digital formats

    In its February Nintendo Direct broadcast Nintendo unveiled Onitore — basically Brain Training 3DS — which will focus on testing your concentration and working memory. Already confirmed for Japan this summer, the success of the DS titles in the series made a worldwide release inevitable; Satoru...

  • News Midnight Purple 3DS Hits North America on 20th May

    Told you so

    North American shoppers get a new colour to choose from in a few weeks when the rumoured Midnight Purple 3DS console hits stores. Coming on 20th May for a suggested retail price of $169.99, it joins Cosmo Black, Aqua Blue, Flame Red and Pearl Pink in the rainbow of handheld console colours. Will you be picking one up? Nintendo 3DS Gets...

  • Rumour Midnight Purple 3DS Spotted on Retail Site

    Prince nowhere to be seen

    Update: Midnight Purple 3DS hits North America on 20th May. Retailer Sam's Club has listed a Midnight Purple 3DS — a colour Nintendo hasn't announced. Joystiq spotted the listing this past weekend. Purple was among the colours first shown off when 3DS w

  • News 'Majority' of Nintendo Games to be Released Digitally

    Maybe not all, in that case

    Most of us have now had plenty of opportunity to digest the news that Nintendo will be delving into the brave new world of retail downloads, starting with New Super Mario Bros. 2 on 3DS in August. An assumption for some has been that Nintendo would release all of its titles as both downloads and boxed game cards or discs,...

  • News VVVVVV Set to Flip Into Europe on 10th May

    About flippin' time

    While gamers in North America have been fortunate enough to enjoy VVVVVV on their 3DS since late last year, those of us in Europe have been patiently — or impatiently — waiting for our own release. After announcing that it expects a European release in early May, publisher Nicalis has now nailed a date down on its Twitter...

  • First Impressions ATV Wild Ride 3D

    ATV racer goes 3D

    When the original ATV Wild Ride was released on Nintendo DS last year, it was praised for its impressive play controls and solid track designs. Unfortunately the game's limited release made it difficult to find at retail outlets, thus keeping it from reaching a wider audience. Now developer Renegade Kid has decided to give the DS...

  • News Mario's Presence in UK is 'Smallest in the World'

    "We need to promptly improve this situation"

    It's become apparent from the weekly UK software charts that Nintendo titles are struggling to make a significant impact in the country. Today's financial report statements from Nintendo revealed an interesting statistic about the sales of Super Mario 3D Land and Mario Kart 7 throughout Europe, and the...

  • News Pre-Order Kingdom Hearts 3D, Get Free AR Cards

    Eat your heart out

    Pre-order Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance ahead of its summer release and you'll get some augmented reality cards to use in-game. The AR cards unlock exclusive Dream Eaters, though retailers haven't specified whether the cards unlock evil Nightmare Dream Eaters to battle or helpful Spirit Dream Eaters to recruit and...

  • News Nintendo Still Has Secret 3DS Games to Reveal

    Who knew?

    Nintendo's got more 3DS games coming your way this financial year, but it's not saying what they are. Satoru Iwata — Nintendo president, of course — told investors the company has several unannounced 3DS games on the way before we flip our calendars over to April 2013. Referring to a list of announced first-party games due in the...

  • News Iwata: "Animal Crossing 3DS Won't Rely on Add-On Content"

    Get what you pay for

    To some, Animal Crossing on 3DS sounds like the ideal opportunity to sell as much digital add-on content as possible, but Nintendo president Satoru Iwata has again stated the company's strong opposition to this model. Iwata told investors Nintendo will stick to its ethos of not selling products that consumers would deem...

  • News New Super Mario Bros. 2 to Kick Off Retail Downloads

    A while to wait

    Nintendo president Satoru Iwata has revealed that New Super Mario Bros. 2 will be the first 3DS retail game to be available for download. Iwata spoke to investors at a financial results briefing and said that with user eShop connectivity at a good level — as much as 70% of 3DS owners in Japan and the U.S. have connected to the...

  • News Mega Man Legends 3 Campaign Hits 100,000 Strong

    Now what?

    The campaign to resurrect Mega Man Legends 3 — snappily titled 100,000 Strong for Bringing Back Mega Man Legends 3 — just hit its milestone on Facebook. The campaign isn't over, though. Now the group needs to turn its button-clicks into action, inviting members to send postcards to Capcom by the month's end. Thes

  • News Big Buck Bunny Joins Nintendo Video in Europe

    Lands next week

    Nintendo Video already plays host to 3D cartoons from Aardman Animation and more, but next week sees Big Buck Bunny join the ranks in Europe. The 10 minute short film will be split into three instalments, to be released one a week from 2nd May. The original film has racked up millions of views online over the past four years, so...

  • News Sakurai: Smash Bros. to 'Change Direction a Little' on Wii U and 3DS

    Still a long wait ahead

    Masahiro Sakurai has been busy with Kid Icarus: Uprising for a while now, but it seems that he's finally turning his attention to the next entry in the Super Smash Bros. franchise. The confirmation of a new title for both Wii U and 3DS was actually made at E3 2011, though we later learned that the announcement was premature...

  • News Nintendo Still Envisions Selling Retail Games Digitally

    On the way

    Nintendo is sticking to its plan of putting full retail games on its digital storefronts, but hasn't given any further information of when the switch might occur. The company just posted its first ever annual loss and is keen to convince investors it can move with the times, stressing the importance of its digital functions for 3DS and...

  • News Worldwide 3DS Sales Reach 17 Million

    Nintendo wants that number doubled

    Since its Japanese release on 26th February 2011, Nintendo has sold 17.13 million 3DS consoles around the world, a number it wants to beat in the next financial year. Between 1st April 2011 and 31st March 2012, Nintendo sold 13.52m consoles worldwide, missing its target of 14m. Originally the company set a target...

  • News Fire Emblem: Awakening Battles to Number One in Japanese Chart

    An early victory

    The latest Media Create Japanese chart results are in, and Fire Emblem: Awakening has stormed to the software number one position with an impressive 242,600 sales: more than the other nine top ten titles combined. The intriguing Code of Princess, an action-brawler on 3DS, made its debut at number two with a more modest 19,554 units...

  • News Nintendo to Distribute Heroes of Ruin Across Europe

    Once more, to arms

    Nintendo's sales, marketing and distribution teams are getting a good run-out with third-party support on 3DS, having already lent their support to Resident Evil Revelations, Super Street Fighter IV: 3D Edition, Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D and more. The platform-holder's just signed a similar deal with Square Enix to promote...

  • Interview Renegade Kid - ATV Wild Ride 3D

    ATV racer gets a 3D facelift

    After having trouble getting the original ATV Wild Ride for Nintendo DS onto retail shelves, developer Renegade Kid have decided to give the game a 3D makeover and this time offer the game on Nintendo's 3DS eShop. We recently got the chance to take the game for a spin and we thought now might be a good time to sit down...

  • Feature Nintendo Banks on Its Old Money Makers

    If in doubt…

    Nintendo is set to announce its latest financial results that will cover the past year, and it’s anticipated that, for the first time in its history, the company will record a yearly loss. It’s an obvious blow for Nintendo, particularly as the past five to six years have brought staggering success. Even the results for 2010-2011...

  • Guide Nintendo 3DS System Update v. 4.0.0-7

    What's new?

    As you probably already know, the latest 3DS system update is available, bringing your machine up to version 4.0.0-7. We've put together a list of what's new in this update. If you find anything we haven't covered, post it in the comments below and we'll update this guide. Ability to add folders Probably the biggest new feature, this...

  • News Theatrhythm Shimmies to Europe on 6th July

    Going to be a busy day

    Nintendo fans with a penchant for rhythm-based gameplay, prepare for 6th July. Not only does Beat the Beat: Rhythm Paradise land on that day, Square Enix has just announced Theatrhythm Final Fantasy will hit Europe on 6th July too. Europeans also get the snazzy Theatrhythm pre-order bonus too, and all just three days behind...

  • News Nintendo America Registers Fire Emblem 3DS Domain

    And relax

    So far only Nintendo Japan and Nintendo Europe have confirmed their plans for Fire Emblem Kakusei (aka Fire Emblem: Awakening), but it looks like Nintendo of America will be right behind them. The North American arm registered the domain FireEmblemAwakening.com, which currently redirects to Nintendo.com. The wing also registered domains...

  • News Nintendo Zone Launched in Europe

    Free content on the go

    The release of Nintendo Zone in Europe has been a slow process, compared to North America, but with today's system update the service is officially available in Wi-Fi Hotspots around the region. Once your 3DS update is complete your handheld will be primed to pick up the service, so if you haven't updated yet, what are you...