3DS News

April2013

  • News Satoru Iwata Confirms Nintendo's Plans To Bring More 3DS Third-Party Support To The West

    Unannounced titles could be on the way, too

    In Nintendo's recent Financial Results Briefing for the end of the Fiscal Year, Nintendo CEO Satoru Iwata mentioned that the company plans to bring more third-party support to the 3DS, particularly when it comes to Japanese developers localising games for the West. First of all, let's take a look at...

  • News 3DS Market Share For Early 2013 Shows Growth in North America and Europe

    Success in mainland Europe offsets poor UK performance

    Over the four pages of his presentation following Nintendo's annual financial report, Satoru Iwata focuses a great deal of attention on the 3DS and its successes, as well as areas for improvement. There have been some real positives for the handheld on a worldwide scale, with its obvious...

  • News Eiji Aonuma Speaks About Zelda 3DS and its Lengthy Development Time

    It began almost two years ago

    Just little over a week ago, Nintendo announced during its latest Nintendo Direct broadcast that a brand new Legend of Zelda title is coming to 3DS this year, which will be set in the same world as The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. In a recent Japan-only Wii U Direct series producer, Eiji Aonuma, commented on...

    • 3DS
  • News Wii U and 3DS Online Connection Rates Exceed 80%

    Europe lagging behind with just 57% of connected 3DS systems

    Just recently Nintendo of America announced a 3DS connection rate of 67%, but it seems that this was a rather conservative figure. During his post financial results presentation, Satoru Iwata has outlined impressive online connection ratios for Nintendo's systems, with one region standing...

  • News Miiverse to Arrive on 3DS "Within This Year"

    3DS game communities will be included, of course

    Earlier today Nintendo took the important step of launching a beta for a browser-based Miiverse service — you simply visit miiverse.nintendo.net on a smartphone, tablet or computer and you can browse the communities and "Yeah" posts, though you can't post your own comments yet. Naturally we're left...

  • News Nintendo Won't Be Holding A Large-Scale Press Conference At E3 This Year

    "We are continuing to investigate ways to deliver information"

    Nintendo has confirmed that it is not doing a large-scale press conference at this year's E3, instead choosing to hold behind-closed-doors events for press and distributors. Where does that leave people watching over the internet? Nintendo has said that it is investigating "ways to...

  • News Madhouse Handling New Etrian Odyssey Cutscenes

    Odds are good you've seen its work

    The upcoming Etrian Odyssey: Millennium Girl (aka Millennium Maiden), a reported remake of the first game in the series, likely has enough reasons to entice fans already. But just in case, Famitsu has revealed another: Millennium Girl’s cutscenes will be made by the anime studio Madhouse. What’s Madhouse, you...

  • News Ghostlight Confirms Devil Survivor Overclocked Patch is Finished

    Soon Europe will have the full experience

    A little under a month ago, Ghostlight released the much-anticipated Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor Overclocked in Europe. Unfortunately, however, the game was marred by game-breaking bugs that stops players in their tracks. Using the summon ability or being lied to by an auction seller causes the game...

  • Feature Nintendo's Financial Revelations and Hardware Strategies

    3DS leads as Wii U goes slow and steady

    Around this time every year Nintendo reports its financial results for the previous 12 months, and in by-gone days they could be summarised very easily — "we're rolling in cash like money hogs, victory lattes for everyone". Recently it's not been quite that simple, with the decline starting with the initial...

  • News Tomodachi Collection: New Life Storms the Japanese Charts

    3DS LL (XL) sales double

    Another week of Japanese chart results, and another happy story for the 3DS. In recent weeks we've seen consistent success for Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon and the ever-green Animal Crossing: New Leaf, but the release of Tomodachi Collection: New Life, the life-simulation game currently exclusive to Japan, has given another...

  • Event Nintendo UK 3DS Showcase

    We sample the best 2013 has to offer

    Last week we were invited to a Nintendo 3DS showcase to get first-hand impressions of some of the upcoming releases in the next few months for Nintendo’s handheld, as well as a demo of the recently announced 3DS Zelda game. We've already previewed a number of these titles in detail from a similar event in San...

  • News Nintendo Letter Box Update Now Live In Europe

    Take note

    Last week, we reported that North American 3DS owners could download an update for the Swapnote application which added a flood of cool new features. The European version of the app — known as Nintendo Letter Box — wasn't so lucky, however. Thankfully, Europe has now caught up with the US and if you're based in The Old World and you...

  • News Nintendo: 3DS eShop And App Store Comparison Is "Quality" Versus "Quantity"

    "3DS has a record of quality that's hard to challenge"

    Nintendo once stated that it wasn't competing with smartphones and didn't view them as gaming devices, but in recent months that stance has changed. The company's top brass is keenly aware that the 3DS is fighting against the likes of the iPhone and iPad for the attention of gamers, and we're...

  • News Aksys Games Announces Hakuoki: Memories of the Shinsengumi For 3DS

    Popular visual novel returns in 3D

    Aksys Games has announced Hakuoki: Memories of the Shinsengumi, a visual novel/dating sim, for the 3DS. The title is the latest in the Hakuoki series, which have previously been released on the PSP. The 3DS entry features the original Hakuoki: Demon of the Fleeting Blossom with six extra stories that flesh out the...

  • News Konami Releases Strategy Portal for Castlevania: Lords of Shadow - Mirror of Fate

    You'll be whip-smart in no time

    Konami has released a strategy portal for the recently released Castlevania: Lords of Shadow - Mirror of Fate designed to be accessible both online and through the 3DS Internet Browser — to view on the 3DS visit Since the browser can be used while a game is running, the guide is sure to be a handy tool for anyone...

  • Weirdness These Circle Pad Pro Mods Have Some Wacky Designs

    Analogue stick on the shoulder, why not?

    Despite its obvious practical uses and merits for making some 3DS games much easier to play, the Circle Pad Pro and 3DS XL Circle Pad Pro often get teased for their clumsy appearance. The XL variation, in particular, isn't exactly conducive to a portable, streamlined device that can be casually popped into a...

  • News 3DS Disney Infinity Name And Details Revealed

    Get ready to party?

    The ESRB has posted ratings information on the upcoming Disney Infinity series’ 3DS rendition and it looks to be taking some planning tips from Mario Party. Disney Infinity: Toy Box Challenge is referred to as a “multiplayer ‘party game’” including various game boards and competitive mini-games. The standard fare of...

  • News New Pokémon 3DS XL to be Available Through Lottery Next Month in Japan

    You lucky Japanese gamers

    To celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Pokémon Center outlets in Japan, news has emerged that a brand new Pokémon-themed 3DS XL will become available in the region next month. Similar to the Charizard 3DS XL (pictured), you'll need to enter into a lottery to be in with a chance to purchase the system. It's rumoured...

  • Interview Marc Franklin - Nintendo of America

    We chat with Nintendo's head PR honcho about 3DS, Earthbound and Zelda

    Between test drives of a selection of Nintendo's 2013 line-up, including The Legend of Zelda 3DS, Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D and Animal Crossing: New Leaf, we had the chance to catch up with Nintendo of America's PR wizard Marc Franklin to talk about w

  • Review The Croods: Prehistoric Party! (3DS)

    Party of one

    When popular films are adapted into video games, publishers tend to cover their bases by releasing the results across as many platforms as possible. This often leads to portable systems receiving scaled-back ports from their big-screen brethren, and The Croods: Prehistoric Party on 3DS is a prime example of a handheld hand-me-down. We...

  • News Nintendo of Europe Offers Free Game in "So Many Games!" Promotion

    Register three and get a fourth free

    In recent months we've seen Nintendo — both in Europe and North America — offer the incentive of a free game for those registering a 3DS XL. Nintendo of Europe is now stepping up with an enticing new offer featuring a list of eight retail games (both current and to be released); it's very simple, if you...

  • News Standalone Pink Nintendo 3DS XL System Coming To UK in May

    Europe-wide release is likely

    Nintendo UK has announced that a pink 3DS XL system will be available to purchase from 31st May as a standalone model in the UK. A pink version of the 3DS XL has been available in North America since late last year, whereas Europe has only had the option of purchasing the original 3DS in this colour until now. We've...

  • Video Nintendo Life Plays The First 35 Minutes Of Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate

    Learning the hard way

    Capcom's Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate is a fantastic game, but it's also a seriously hardcore experience, requiring dedication, skill and the patience of a saint. Just in case our reviews of the Wii U and the 3DS versions haven't convinced you to make the purchase, we sat our video features editor and Monster Hunter virgin Rory...

  • News Nintendo Of America Rep Insists That Lost Digital Content "Not Covered For Replacement"

    Don't lose that 3DS

    We've previously grumbled a bit about the fact that Nintendo currently does not employ a proper ID-based system for its downloads. Instead, the content you purchase on your Wii U and 3DS via their respective eShops is tied to the system itself. Stories have been circulating that Nintendo is prepared to replace digital content if...

  • News Fire Emblem: Awakening Battles to Third in UK Chart Debut

    3DS XL Limited Edition brings major hardware bump

    Fire Emblem: Awakening arrived in Europe last week, bringing with it exceptional strategy gameplay and a level of challenge to lead to plenty of chewed nails for early adopters. Critically acclaimed and already performing well in North America, the question was how well it would perform in Europe...

  • Talking Point The Arrival of eShop Download Codes in Stores is a Smart Move

    Another step forward

    This week it was announced that Nintendo of Europe had established an agreement with retailer GAME, for it to exclusively sell select download codes from the high street and its website; it's the first serious move to match up to similar download cards already available in Japan. The GAME retail group has stores across Europe as...

  • News Armature Reveals More Details For Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate

    "In my gut I feel like, yeah, it’s going to be cool"

    Not too long ago Warner Bros. announced both Batman: Arkham Origins, which is coming to Wii U, and accompanying 3DS title Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate. While the Wii U title will follow in the footsteps, stylistically, of Batman: Arkham Asylum and Batman Arkham City, the handheld Blackgate...

  • First Impressions Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D

    Jungle boogie

    Retro's fantastic Donkey Kong Country Returns is a known quantity by now, so when we had the chance to go hands-on with the 3DS port in San Francisco recently we weren't exactly overcome with sweeping revelation. It was a great game on Wii and, unsurprisingly, that same great game translates very well to a handheld. Those who’ve...

  • News Nintendo UK: 2013 is "The Year of The 3DS"

    Poor Luigi's been overshadowed again

    Nintendo has really been pushing the 3DS recently what with some stellar new releases and the promise of more to come via this week's brilliant Nintendo Direct. The company firmly believes this will be the year that will see many of the current DS owners upgrade to the 3DS and is willing to back it up with an...

  • First Impressions Animal Crossing: New Leaf

    Jon and Damien go hands-on

    You guys are so lucky. What you're getting here is two previews for the price of one; our dashing US Editor-at-Large Jon Wahlgren was lucky enough to attend a 3DS showcase in North America this week, and got to spend a short amount of time with Animal Crossing: New Leaf. His thoughts are below, while UK-based editor Damien...

  • News GAME Bags European Exclusive On eShop Download Codes

    25% additional trade-in value with selected physical titles

    UK video game retailer GAME has announced an exclusive partnership with Nintendo which allows it to sell software via eShop codes in-store and online. The agreement will allow Wii U and 3DS owners across Europe to purchase digital content for their consoles via GAME's chain of physical...

  • Talking Point Fire Emblem: Awakening - The Big Casual Mode Debate

    Classic or Casual - which mode do you play?

    Fire Emblem: Awakening is finally available in Europe after a couple of additional months of waiting. The series itself is now 23 years old, and is arguably one of the more 'hardcore' franchises that Nintendo owns. One element Fire Emblem is known for is its punishing levels of difficulty, which has never...

  • News Fresh Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate Stock Arrives In The UK

    The hunt is back on

    Getting hold of a copy of Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate in the UK has been easier said than done since the game launched in March; the popularity of Capcom's beast-slaying epic has resulted in a situation where demand has far outstripped supply. Thankfully, Nintendo UK has gotten in touch with us this morning to confirm that the...

  • Out Today Fire Emblem: Awakening (Europe)

    European gamers, for you the wait is finally over

    North American 3DS owners have been enjoying Fire Emblem: Awakening since February, and Japanese fans have had the game even longer — since April last year, in fact. It's only now that European players are getting their hands on one of the 3DS' most accomplished releases, but games of this quality...

  • News Japanese 3DS Owners Can Now Post Images Directly To Social Networks

    New tool supports Twitter and Tumblr

    Sharing is apparently caring — we're told — and Japanese 3DS owners can now share to their heart's delight by posting in-game screens shots from Animal Crossing: New Leaf and Tomodachi Collection to Twitter and Tumblr. Twitter user Cheesemeister gives some more information: [tweet [tweet

  • Video The Edited Highlights Of This Week's Nintendo Direct

    All killer, no filler

    This week's Nintendo Direct presentation was packed with amazing info, but with a running time of almost 40 minutes, it might have been a little bit on the long side for many impatient Nintendo fans. But fear not — Nintendo Life Video Features Editor Rory Cocker has sifted through the footage and pulled together the prime...

  • News Nintendo And GAME Hosting Multiplayer Mayhem Event This Weekend

    Don't forget your 3DS

    Nintendo is giving the 3DS a lot of love at the moment. Yesterday it dedicated an entire Nintendo Direct presentation to the handheld and today it's announced it will be joining forces with UK retailer GAME to hold a massive 3DS multiplayer event across the country this weekend. Multiplayer Mayhem will take place between 10am...

  • First Impressions The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds

    Further muddying the timeline

    Surprise! That rumored Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask 3DS remake was totally not true, and no doubt planted as a red herring by some unscrupulous Nintendo employee to throw us all off the real story: Nintendo's handheld is getting a “sequel” to fan-favorite The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past.

  • Feature The Big Nintendo 3DS Direct Summary - 17th April 2013

    There's a lot to take in

    Before the latest Nintendo Direct broadcast, we're sure that many were unsure of what to expect. We've watched enough of them to know that sometimes they can be rather light on revelations, simply stringing us along with a few release dates, and on other occasions they can be blockbuster events that get the Nintendo Life...

  • News Shin Megami Tensei IV Launches This July In North America

    First print copies will be Limited Edition

    During yesterday's Nintendo Direct presentation, Nintendo revealed that Shin Megami Tensei IV will be released across North America on 16th July; all first print copies of the game will come packaged as a Limited Edition box set, including a Strategy and Design book, a Shin Megami Tensei Music Collection...

  • Nintendo Download 18th April 2013 (North America)

    LEGO on the go, discounts, Harvest Moon, puzzles galore and more

    It's Thursday, so that means it's Nintendo Download time. This week brings us a rather lengthy list of options for both 3DS and DSi, with both Wii U and Wii missing out. There really is a lot to get through, so let's get on with it. 3DS eShop: Super Little Acorns 3D Turbo (Pixel...

  • News Check Out This Comparison Between The New 3DS Zelda And Link To The Past

    What once was old is new again

    When Nintendo revealed the new 3DS Zelda title — provisionally called The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past 2 — during its Nintendo Direct presentation yesterday, one of the more interesting comments was that it was set in the same world as its SNES predecessor. As if to prove that point, a forum memb

  • News Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon Remains Spookily Resilient Atop Japanese Charts

    Animal Crossing: New Leaf shows impressive legs, too

    2013 is well and truly the Year of Luigi, with Mario's sibling locking out the Japanese sales charts again this week. Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon sold another 56,562 copies, bringing its lifetime total to over half a million units. Card Fight!! Vanguard Ride to Victory!! was in second place, with...

  • News Nintendo’s Bill Trinen: 2013 Is The Year When The 3DS "Takes Off"

    Western gamers finally "getting" the console

    It's fair to say that yesterday's Nintendo Direct delivered some amazing news — the most significant being the development of a new Zelda title for the 3DS this year. After a slow start in the west, the handheld really seems to be building momentum — something which hasn't gone unnoticed within the...

    • 3DS
  • News Circle Pad Pro XL Available Through Nintendo's Online Store In North America

    Priced at $19.99, shipping this Friday

    Although it was previously thought that the Circle Pad Pro XL would not be making it Stateside, a listing for the peripheral has appeared on ShopNintendo, Nintendo of America's official online store. The add-on is available for pre-order a

  • News Eiji Aonuma Takes To Link To The Past Miiverse To Discuss Zelda 3DS

    Special mention for Oracle of Seasons and Ages, too

    During yesterday's Nintendo Direct, Nintendo landed an unexpected surprise on us towards the end of the broadcast. We were told to expect a new Zelda game for the 3DS before the end of the year — the kind of megaton announcement that would normally wait until E3. Not only that, but we weren't...

  • Review LEGO City Undercover: The Chase Begins (3DS)

    Bricking it

    We all love a good origin story, right? It's an opportunity to delve further into the inner workings of a character, to learn what they're all about and how they became the hero that we know and love. LEGO City Undercover: The Chase Begins, however, is an oddly timed tale of this ilk: we only just got to know Chase McCain a month ago in...

  • News Animal Crossing: New Leaf 3DS XL Bundle Confirmed in The West

    It will be available on launch

    Yesterday we reported that UK online retailer ShopTo had listed the limited edition Animal Crossing: New Leaf 3DS XL sparking rumours the special system would be making its way to the West. Thankfully we didn't have to wait too long to find out as it was confirmed during today's Nintendo Direct presentation that the...

  • News Special Luigi 3DS XL System Coming To Japan

    The XL stands for "Xtra Luigi"

    The Year of Luigi has seen some promising products on the way for the Cult of the Green, but what may be the piece de resistance is currently limited to Japan. A special edition Luigi 3DS XL system was announced during the Japan Nintendo Direct Wednesday. Similar to the Animal Crossing: New Leaf system that was...

  • News Nintendo of America Announces Impressive Download Figures and Sales for 3DS

    Online connection rate for the system is 67%

    Alongside today's Nintendo Direct broadcasts, Nintendo of America has been speaking to members of the press about the handheld's recent successes, and we've been fortunate enough to be on hand for the details. Some facts and figures for the 3DS in the region have been revealed by Scott Moffitt, and they...

  • News Mario Golf: World Tour Features Online Play And Communities

    Tee-off in large scale global tournaments

    Mario certainly loves his sport. Over the years he's tried his hand at football, basketball and tennis to name a few - he's even competed in the Olympics with a certain blue hedgehog. One Mario sports title many people are fond of is Mario Golf and this Summer will see a 3DS iteration of the series emerge...

  • News New Mode And Items Confirmed For Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D

    Also features eight exclusive levels

    We recently touched upon a product listing for Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D on the Nintendo UK website, which revealed some new elements for the 3DS port, including an easy mode and new items. These features were confirmed during today's 3DS-focused Nintendo Direct, where Satoru Iwata called the game a...

  • News Professor Layton and the Azran Legacies Coming To Europe This Year

    North America will have to wait until 2014

    While today's 3DS-focused Nintendo Direct revealed a few titles that we didn't know about, there were a few pieces of information on those we most definitely do know exist. One of those titles was Professor Layton and the Azran Legacies, which is the last game in the prequel trilogy. We can now confirm...

  • News A Mario Party is Getting Started on 3DS This Winter

    Roll the dice

    As today's Nintendo Direct was mostly about the 3DS, Satoru Iwata announced a new title for the handheld that'll aim to get groups playing together. It was confirmed that a new Mario Party game is coming to the 3DS this Winter; with this being the Year of Luigi, we were also assured that Luigi would play an important role. The footage...

  • News Mario & Luigi: Dream Team Bros. Hits Europe on 12th July, North America on 11th August

    Luigi is the star

    While our exciting new game klaxon was going off regularly here at Nintendo Life Towers during the latest 3DS Direct, we also enjoyed receiving release dates and details for games confirmed earlier in the year. One that we were particularly pleased to hear about was Mario & Luigi: Dream Team Bros., the latest in the popular RPG...

  • News A New Yoshi's Island Title is Coming to 3DS

    Baby Mario comes along for the ride

    While today's Nintendo 3DS Direct brought a fair few solid release dates and details, we also got a taste of some rather tasty new titles in development for the end of this year and beyond. While it's unclear whether it'll arrive this year or in 2014, Satoru Iwata gave us a sneak peak of a brand new Yoshi's Island...

  • News Bravely Default: Flying Fairy is Confirmed for the West

    Prayers have been answered

    Nintendo's latest 3DS Direct did bring some surprises, but also some long awaited pieces of confirmation. One of these is that Bravely Default: Flying Fairy, the eagerly anticipated RPG from Square Enix, is on the way to both North America and Europe. It's already enjoyed a successful release in Japan, with plenty...

  • News New Legend Of Zelda Title Confirmed For Nintendo 3DS, Due Late 2013

    Set in the same world as Link to the Past

    During today's fun-packed and feature-rich Nintendo Direct it was confirmed that a new Legend of Zelda game is in development for the Nintendo 3DS. Set in the same world as The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past — but boasting original dungeons and an all-new storyline — the game adopts a top-down...

  • Nintendo Direct Watch The European 3DS Presentation Live

    Live at 3PM UK time

    Today at 3PM UK time, Nintendo Europe will be broadcasting a 3DS-themed Nintendo Direct. You can watch the entire thing live on this very page, and as always we'll be providing textual commentary as events unfold. What exciting news could be contained within? Are the rumours of The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask being...

  • Nintendo Direct Watch The North American 3DS Presentation Live

    Hype train inbound

    Today, we'll be getting a special 3DS-focused Nintendo Direct which will hopefully give us a better idea of what the rest of 2013 has in store for the popular portable console. Nintendo of America will be broadcasting a special announcement at 7AM PT / 10AM ET. You can view the proceedings — along with our typically insightful...

  • Rumour Majora's Mask 3D Listed for November Release by Retailer

    This rumour's had some smelling salts applied

    It's the day before a 3DS-themed Nintendo Direct, so that means it's time for more rumours of a 3DS remake of The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask. This has been speculated upon since The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D graced the handheld, with Nintendo even hinting way back in summer 2011 that fan...

  • News EA Announcing More FIFA 14 News Tomorrow

    Back of the net

    The football season is slowly drawing to a close, which can only mean one thing: EA will soon be announcing its next FIFA title in preparation for the next campaign. Fans of the series will be pleased to hear EA will be revealing more news on FIFA 14 tomorrow, on the same day as Nintendo Direct. Coincidence? Probably, yes. [tweet...

  • Review Soccer Up 3D (3DS eShop)

    Own goal

    These days, soccer games tend to fall on one of two ends of a spectrum: there's the relatively realistic sports simulation found in annual FIFA and Pro Evolution Soccer instalments, and then there's the zany over-the-top action of the Super Mario Strikers and FIFA Street series. In the golden days of the Amiga, however, there were other...

  • Review Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner: Soul Hackers (3DS)

    Soul Shakedown Party

    As an enhanced port of a 1997 first-person dungeon crawling RPG for the ill-fated Sega Saturn, Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner: Soul Hackers seems like an unlikely release — especially considering the original game never left Japan. Both time and the journey across the Pacific have been kind to this 3DS wünder-port,...

  • Rumour Crash City Mayhem Set To Speed Across North America Next Month?

    Majesco said to be publishing the title

    According to gaming website, GameFly, Crash City Mayhem is set to release in North America on the 14th May. Nintendo Everything came across the listing on the site, along with the boxart suggesting that Majesco will be bringing the game to the US. The publisher is yet to confirm this bit of information, but...

  • Review Finding Nemo: Escape to the Big Blue (3DS)

    Making a splash or a drop in the ocean?

    Finding Nemo: Escape to the Big Blue's re-release would seem a little odd were it not for the fact that Finding Nemo is currently enjoying a second run at UK cinemas due to the wonders of 3D technology. Disney has clearly seen a good opportunity to improve its rate of return on the game — which was...

  • News New 3DS Nintendo Direct to Broadcast on 17th April

    All aboard the hype train

    Just when we were starting to wonder, "when's the next Nintendo Direct going to drop?", Nintendo has spread the word that a new 3DS Direct is coming this week on Wednesday 17th April. It's confirmed that the broadcasts in Europe and North America will run at simultaneous times, and press releases from the regional teams...

  • News Luigi's Mansion 2 Refuses to Get Scared Out of the UK Top 10

    No Wii U exclusives in the top 40

    Last week we were rather pleased to report that Luigi's Mansion 2 secured 5th place in the UK all-format chart for the second week running; maintaining a top 10 place beyond launch week is relatively rare for 3DS titles in the region. That was an excellent achievement, but even better news this week is that Luigi is...

  • Nintendo Download 18th April 2013 (Europe)

    An awakening, various adventures, a Kung Fu rabbit and more

    As it's a Monday, Nintendo of Europe once again gives gamers in the region something pleasing to get the week started. This time around we have new and old games for Wii U, 3DS and DSi, with some rather decent discounts being added to the 3DS eShop for good measure. Let's get right to it...

  • News Nintendo To Deliver New Homes To Animal Crossing: New Leaf Via SpotPass

    The Happy Homes Showcase just got happier

    Animal Crossing: New Leaf is just a couple of months away from being released in the West and the anticipation is starting to reach fever pitch. Back in February, Nintendo teased an exclusive feature that would be included in Western versions of the game. Nobody knew what it was but it appears to have been...

  • News Developers: No Nostalgia Allowed in Creating Core of Dark Moon

    Mario minus Mario

    When making a game in a universe with such massive, long-standing presence as the Mario series, it would seem a no-brainer to start mixing that familiar essence in right from square one. But not so with Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon; the brother was granted a cleaner slate. In an interview with Gamasutra, developer Bryce Holliday...

  • News C-Wars Could Make It To Wii U And 3DS Should It Surpass Kickstarter Goal

    It's halfway there already

    C-Wars is a real-time strategy tower defence game that's being developed by Onipunks. The studio has just launched a Kickstarter campaign and is set to appear on PC, Mac, Linux and Android at some point this year. However, the developer confirmed it could also appear on Wii U and 3DS should it be successful in receiving...

  • News CoroCoro Confirms New Mewtwo Form

    Also reveals more on Pokémon Rumble U

    Last week, what looked like a new form of Mewtwo was announced for Pokémon X & Y by the Japanese TV show Pokémon Smash. However, it wasn't exactly clear if it was in fact Mewtwo or a completely different 'mon altogether and a massive debate ensued. Thankfully the latest edition of CoroCoro has emerged in...

  • Interview Meet Christopher Robin Miller - Voice Actor For Professor Layton

    An interview with a gentleman

    We were first introduced to Professor Layton back in February 2007 with his debut title, Professor Layton and the Curious Village. Since then, the 'Sherlock Holmes' inspired character has gone from strength to strength with an original trilogy, a prequel trilogy, a movie, and an upcoming crossover with defense attorney...

  • News Power Rangers Megaforce Fighting Its Way Onto 3DS

    It's morphin' time!

    Can you believe Power Rangers is 20 years old? Well it is, and as part of the anniversary celebrations there's a new show on Nickelodeon called Power Rangers Megaforce, which is now being morphed into a video game for the 3DS. Namco Bandai has revealed Power Rangers Megaforce will be available in North and Latin America this...

  • News Europe Receives Fire Emblem: Awakening Puzzle Panel

    The European release is tantalisingly close

    North American 3DS owners have been playing through Fire Emblem: Awakening since February, while Europe watches on with envious eyes. There's not that much longer to wait though, as Intelligent Systems' turn-based strategy title is set to make the journey across the pond on 19th April. There's even an...

  • Hardware Review 3DS Circle Pad Pro XL

    Two pads are better than one?

    When Nintendo announced the 3DS XL, many were disappointed that the system lacked that all-important second slider pad. This omission was made all the more puzzling by the fact that Nintendo had already released the Circle Pad Pro for the original 3DS console, an admission that perhaps a twin-pad arrangement would have...

  • Rumour Ni no Kuni Could Yet See A Western Release, According To Publisher Namco Bandai

    DS role-player could find a new lease of life on the 3DS

    You might be familar with Level-5 and Studio Ghibli collaboration Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch from its recent release on the PlayStation 3, but the origin of the series actually stretches back to a Nintendo DS game, released in Japan in 2010. Ni no Kuni: The Jet-black Mage shares the...

  • News Iwata Asks Delves Into Animal Crossing: New Leaf

    Nintendo's President talks Mr Resetti, being mayor and panning for gold

    Animal Crossing: New Leaf is edging closer and closer towards its Western release date and we think it's fair to say there are a lot of 3DS owners out there chomping at the bit to get hold of it. As if the hype needed building up any more Nintendo has kindly translated the...

  • News Ubisoft's E3 2013 Conference Dated

    Mark 10th June on your calendars

    E3 2013 is almost upon us. With a little over two months to go, you can almost smell the excitement in the air amongst gamers, developers and publishers alike. To kick off the major gaming event, Ubisoft will be holding its presentation on Monday 10th June - which is actually a day before E3 is scheduled to begin...

  • News Project X Zone European Release Date Confirmed

    It'll be available in July

    Last week Namco Bandai revealed Project X Zone would be coming to North America on 25th June, but Europe was left with its original vague release date of Summer 2013. This lead people to believe European 3DS owners would be getting the game much later than their American counterparts, however, this is not the case at all...

  • News Ace Attorney 5 Release Date Accidentally Revealed By Capcom

    Someone made a boo boo in the courtroom

    It seems that Capcom has let the release date for Ace Attorney 5 slip in a recent blog post about a Nico Nico developer Q&A on the upcoming 3DS title. The game is set to have fingers pointing in Japan on the 25th July this year. Capcom objected by removing the evidence of the release date from the blog...

  • Nintendo Download 11th April 2013 (North America)

    A rolling ranger, brawling Gods, a pink ball's debut and more

    It's Nintendo Download time, North America, and this week there's new content to choose from on Wii U, 3DS and DSi. In the coming week there'll be a couple of tasty retail downloads and a classic platformer that'll cost less than a chocolate bar, while today a rolling Ranger makes his...

  • Rumour 3DS Owners Noticing Software Performance Improvements Since Update

    Certain games running smoother?

    OK, grab a pinch of salt for this one, because it's taken straight from the box marked "Rumour". According to some posters over at NeoGAF, the recent 3DS firmware update has delivered some unexpected benefits: namely better performance in certain games. Rayman 3D, Sonic Gene

  • News Swapnote Update Available For Download On North American 3DS Consoles

    Euro Letter Box update still AWOL, though

    Nintendo has updated its Swapnote application for the 3DS console. The update is available now and weighs in at a modest 81 data blocks, so it shouldn't take long to download. To install the new version of the app, you first must locate it in the 3DS eShop and then click the "To Update Screen" option. The...

  • News Skylanders Giants Toys Munching Their Way Into McDonald's Happy Meals This Month

    I'll have a Spyro with fries, please

    Activision and popular fast-food giant McDonald's have teamed up to bring characters from Skylanders Giants to Happy Meals this month. Starting this Friday 12th April and running up until the 2nd of May in the US, those who purchase a Happy Meal will receive one of nine character figures. Not only this, but...

  • News Disney's Planes Jetting Onto All Nintendo Platforms This Year

    Wii U, Wii, 3DS and DS editions coming in August

    Disney Interactive Studios has revealed that Disney's Planes — which is based on the forthcoming CGI film — will be hitting all Nintendo platforms later in 2013. Wii U, Wii, 3DS and DS versions are in development, with August 6th being the take-off date in North America — just a few days before...

  • News Animal Crossing: New Leaf Passes Three Million Sales in Japan

    Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon still number one in the charts

    Update: As correctly pointed out on Twitter by NintenDaan, it's worth remembering that Media Create charts only account for physical retail sales. The full sales for Animal Crossing: New Leaf will be further beyond three million due to its success on the 3DS eShop. Original Article: Last...

  • News KORG M01D Music Workstation Hitting 3DS eShop This Summer

    What sweet music you'll make

    Some of you may fondly recall KORG DS-10, a "musical workstation" for your humble Nintendo DS. If you enjoyed making bizarre aural creations with this cult release then you'll be please to learn that it's getting a sequel for the 3DS eShop, entitled KORG M01D. Essentially a souped-up version of the DS original, KORG...

  • News Level 5's Fantasy Life Ships 300,000 Copies In Japan

    Another 3DS smash-hit is on the cards

    Level 5 CEO Akihiro Hino has revealed that total shipments to date of 3DS title Fantasy Life have reached the 300,000 mark in Japan. Back in January, we reported that the game — which is a collaboration between the Professor Layton studio and Brownie Brown — had sold out upon release, an event which no...

  • News Batman: Arkham Origins Confirmed for Wii U

    3DS gets a 2.5D spin off, Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate

    Earlier in the year we learned that a new Batman Arkham title was due in 2013, courtesy of a Warner Bros. financial briefing, and we were hoping that it'd appear on Wii U. The good news is that the statement was true and that Nintendo's system is in line to enjoy the next entry; Batman:...

  • News Miyamoto: Game Development is Still About "Starting From The Idea"

    Talks about his use of Flipnote Studio, and new approaches to distribution

    As reported earlier today, Shigeru Miyamoto's comprehensive interview with Rolling Stone has suggested that retirement isn't currently in the designer's plans, helping to put to rest one of the enduring question marks hanging over the Kyoto-based company. We do recommend...

  • News The Pokémon Company Describes 2013 as a "Key Year" for the Franchise

    Big plans to take the series further

    The Pokémon franchise is, without a doubt, a vital part of Nintendo's success, especially in the handheld space, with a new generation 'mon release prompting hype and excitement that's only seen for select brands. It's big in both Japan and the West, and an iconic part of the gaming industry. It's not from...

  • News Vote For Mushrooms Or Bananas In Nintendo UK's Mario Kart 7 Community Race Night

    Takes place this Wednesday

    Nintendo UK's Mario Kart 7 Community Race Nights have been going from strength to strength, and for this week's event the company is giving fans the chance to answer that age-old question: which is better, the mushroom or the banana? By posting a comment on Nintendo UK's official Facebook page, you can influence the...

  • News Agatsuma Plans To Release Farewell Umihara Kawase Outside Japan

    Reel-y

    The quirky, fishing line-based physics platformer Farewell Umihara Kawase for the 3DS may see a release outside Japan if publisher Agatsuma Entertainment has its way. Siliconera asked Rico Kuno Matsumara, general manager at Agatsuma, about the possibility of the game being released elsewhere and here's what he had to say: Yes, we are...

  • Video This Animal Crossing: New Leaf Trailer Shows You Around

    Everyone's a bloomin' tourist

    So, Animal Crossing: New Leaf has been on a lot of wishlists for a little too long now, with its June release in North America and Europe getting tantalizingly close. Social lives will be lost, and the summer sun will be ignored but, who cares? It's Animal Crossing, and we want it yesterday. We do all have to wait a...

  • Interview Michael Pachter On Wii U, 3DS And The Challenges Facing Nintendo This Generation

    "I don’t hate Nintendo at all"

    Michael Pachter has been called a lot of things — not all of them repeatable on a family-friendly site such as this — but many of his harshest critics seem to miss the point of what he is actually saying; his job is to ensure that people invest their cash wisely and not to placate over-zealous fans. Nevertheless,...

  • News Luigi's Mansion 2 Still Scaring the UK Top 10

    Luigi's got legs

    When it comes to the UK software charts, we're typically used to seeing major games exclusive to Nintendo platforms making an early bee-line for the top 10 before, in many cases, promptly dropping back to modest placings the following week. That's not the case with Luigi's Mansion 2, however, which has steadfastly held onto the...

  • News Nintendo Confirms Dr Kawashima’s Devilish Brain Training Delay

    New launch date "to be confirmed"

    At the weekend, we reported on the rumour that Dr Kawashima’s Devilish Brain Training: Can You Stay Focused? — which is known as Brain Age: Concentration Training in North America — was being pushed back from its proposed European April 12th release date

  • Review 50 Classic Games 3D (3DS)

    Destined to be forgotten

    At first glance, 50 Classic Games 3D looks reminiscent of Nintendo's 42 All-Time Classics (Clubhouse Games in North America) for DS. But those hoping for a spiritual successor to the original hit are in for a bit of a disappointment. This is because 50 Classic Games 3D is woefully lacking in quality, depth and — most of...