Wii U News
September2013
News Aonuma Explains His Quest to Have Improved the "Overall Game Flow" of The Wind Waker HD
Also states that Skyrim has not been a direct influence on the next Zelda
Development of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD is now complete, with manufacturing on physical retail copies no doubt underway and members of the press happily playing through to work towards producing their reviews. It would seem like a good time, therefore, for Eiji...
News TimeSplitters Rewind "A Possibility" On Wii U, But Don't Get Your Hopes Up
Fan-made remake is coming to PS4 and PC for now
TimeSplitters Rewind is a fan-made remake of Free Radical's popular FPS title, and there's a very slight chance it could be coming to the Wii U. Project Manager Michael Hubicka recently conducted an "Ask Me Anything" session on Reddit, and was asked about the chances of a Nintendo version: I'm not...
Video Nintendo Reels Out Plenty of PAX Prime Videos
We'll throw in the latest Mario & Sonic Winter Olympics trailer, too
PAX Prime was a busy event last week, bringing its share of big reveals while also letting gamers go hands on with some major upcoming releases. Nintendo certainly went all out, bringing a substantial range of Wii U and 3DS games to the show, as well as some suitably extravagant...
News Early Estimates Place Pikmin 3 August Sales in the U.S. at 185,000 Units
Not too far behind multi-platform titles such as Disney Infinity
Later this week, on 12th September, the NPD results for August video game sales in the U.S. will be revealed and, in addition, Nintendo may or may not reveal key statistics and sales of its own. The statistics from NPD aren't without flaws and shortcomings, particularly as they don't...
Review Angry Birds Trilogy (Wii U)
An angry trio
What can possibly be said about Angry Birds that hasn’t been said a million times already? A game that started out as a humble iPhone app just four years ago has now permeated our culture in a huge way. There are multiple sequels to the original game, toys, books, an animated television series, and it’s nearly impossible to walk...
Weirdness Say Hello to the Cross Plane, a GamePad For Other Systems
Well, not quite
In recent years Nintendo has produced some innovative products with established technology, endured some sniggers and confused coverage, and then seen the idea mimicked and reproduced by others. The idea of touch screens in gaming was rather fresh when the DS was unveiled, and some mocked the waggle motion controls of the Wii —...
Review Spot the Differences: Party! (Wii U eShop)
Spot a different party
Spot the Differences: Party! will hand you photo after photo, politely asking you to identify the inconsistencies between their lookalikes until you either pass out from unrelenting boredom or stare at each and every one of the 300+ pictures on display. Go it alone or rope a friend or three into the monotony, but unless...
News Sometimes Finding a Wii U to Buy Ain't Easy
Take Poland, for example
Update: Since publication, the writer of the source article — R J Burgess — has kindly been in touch. As his blog about the challenges of finding a Wii U in Poland was written in June, he's provided us with the following update on the status of Nintendo content — from his experience — in the country; it seems to tie...
Rumour Nintendo Set To Rename The Wii U Facebook Page
It'll soon be known as "Nintendo Console Gaming"
Earlier today we reported that the 3DS Facebook page would be getting a name change after several people received emails from the social network telling them that from 19th September it would be known as "Nintendo Handheld Gaming". Well, it appears Nintendo has also decided to go down the same route...
News Atari Founder Nolan Bushnell Claims Nintendo "Could Be On The Path To Irrelevance"
Says a handheld gaming-only device "doesn't make sense any more"
Atari founder Nolan Bushnell has spoken about Nintendo's current situation and admitted that the company finds itself in a "very difficult position". Talking to the BBC at Campus Party Europe — a London-based O2 event involving thousands of developers working on various technology...
Talking Point The Wonderful 101 Provides Some Rare Family Friendly Thrills
Falls nicely into the PEGI 12 and ESRB Teen bracket
In this Talking Point, our colleague Andy Robertson — who runs FamilyGamerTV — explains why The Wonderful 101 is a game perfectly suited to families and, in particular, the young teen audience; it's an age group rarely catered to directly. Andy regularly works with families and appears on radio...
News Nintendo Confirms Miiverse for 3DS "Soon", Smartphone Apps for Network Also Coming
Keeping us connected at any time
Launched on the Wii U, Miiverse has slowly and surely come a long way. Regular updates since launch have allowed longer messages to be posted, the sharing of posts to external networks such as Twitter and Facebook, and perhaps most importantly the launch of a web version — — which has gradually incorporated all...
News Wii U TVii App Now Allows You to Doodle on "Your Fave Live TV Moments"
BAM!
The Wii U is increasingly becoming home to some excellent games, with more on the way, but it does have other tricks up its sleeve. Miiverse is the most commonly used, perhaps, while thoroughly decent web browser and video chat functionality shouldn't be overlooked. If you're in North America there's also TVii, the app that provides an...
News The World's Most Scathing Video Game Critic May Be Warming To Wii U
"There's definitely something about it I find comforting" says Yahtzee
Video game critic Ben "Yahtzee" Croshaw is best known for his breathless rants about mainstream forms of interactive entertainment, and has previously been quite negative about the Nintendo Wii U. However, in his most recent column for The Escapist, Croshaw appears to have...
Video Winged Pikmin Gatecrashes Red Bull Flugtag 2013
No blue Pikmin were harmed in this publicity stunt
Did you know that Nintendo of Canada constructed a Winged Pink Pikmin for Red Bull's Flugtag event in Ottawa-Gatineau, Canada this year? No? Well now you do — and what's more, you can view the flight trajectory of said Pikmin in the video below. Needless to say, the real-world version didn't fly...
News Nintendo Is Bringing Its 2013 Big Hitters To Eurogamer Expo
Plus Bayonetta 2 and massive indie support
Nintendo has confirmed that it is bringing all of its major Q4 titles — and more besides — to this year's Eurogamer Expo, which takes place at Earl's Court in London from September 26th to the 29th. Attendees will be able to go hands-on with upcoming Wii U titles like Bayonetta 2, Donkey Kong Country:...
Review Disney Infinity (Wii U)
Infinite possibilities, infinite potential
The first impression that some on the periphery have of Disney Infinity is that it can easily be written off as a direct copy of the Skylanders blueprint. In truth, what we have here is an action-adventure game that uses real-world figures and implements them in the video game as playable characters, which...
Video Watch_Dogs Footage Shows Off Hacking, Open-World Elements and Driving
Some ooh and aah moments to enjoy
Watch_Dogs is a Ubisoft title that can quite easily attract attention no matter what home console you happen to own, as it's coming to all major current systems including the Wii U. It's undoubtedly ambitious in scope, promising a campaign that can be seamlessly interrupted by other players online, and the...
News The Wii U Continues to Struggle in Japanese Charts
The Wonderful 101 departs the top 20 in its second week
The Japanese charts often provide solace for Nintendo, especially with 3DS hardware and software sales continually leading the way. While the portable's hardware performance retains its strong run this week, the Wii U's issues in the market have been brought sharply into focus once again. The...
News Hideki Kamiya "Would Be Honoured" If One Of His Creations Made It Into Smash Bros.
Not so keen on making Star Fox anymore, however
The Wonderful 101 creator Hideki Kamiya has revealed to Polygon that he'd love to see one of his characters make it into a Super Smash Bros. title. Arguably one of Japan's most recognisable developers, Kamiya has always insisted that he's a massive Nintendo fan, and he's clearly keen to be involved...
Video Want To See Just How Much Better Zelda: Wind Waker Looks In HD?
Standard definition just doesn't cut it anymore
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD hits the Wii U very soon, and for many it will be a chance to revisit one of the greatest games ever made. However, we've lost count of the number of times we've heard people say things like "how much better can it possibly look in a higher resolution?" or "the...
News Super Castlevania IV Is Whipping The Japanese Wii U Virtual Console Next Week
A 16-bit classic to get your teeth into
Japanese Wii U owners will be able to enjoy what is arguably Simon Belmont's best adventure next week as Super Castlevania IV (or Akumajō Dracula as it's known over there) hits the Virtual Console in that region. The first 16-bit outing for Konami's esteemed vampire-hunting series, Super Castlevania IV was...
News Keiji Inafune Thanks Mighty No. 9 Backers in New Video
Former co-workers and employers also appreciated
A very happy and slightly exhausted-looking Keiji Inafune has taken to YouTube to thank everyone who has helped his Mega Man-influenced Kickstarter project, Mighty No. 9, reach its initial funding goal in blinding speed. An update from the development team was also posted to the project’s...
News Club Nintendo Rewards Updated for September
Take to the skies and march with the minis
It's that time of the month when Nintendo offers up some tasty rewards for North American Club Nintendo members to enjoy. This year really is flying by isn't it? Two Wii Shop and two 3DS eShop games will be available to download in exchange for your hard earned coins and of course Wii U owners can access...
Talking Point The Wii U May Be Playing Catch-Up With Some Developers, But Money Always Talks
Some third-parties may never be on board, however
The challenges facing the Wii U, like those that faced the 3DS before it in 2011, are numerous. It's seeking to reverse stalled momentum that was, perhaps strategically, allowed to happen in exchange for a busy lineup of games in the second half of the year. This is being done against the backdrop of...
News Eurostyle Neo Geo Shooter Gunlord Is Blasting Its Way To 3DS And Wii U
Indiegogo campaign started to fund development
UPDATE: Since this news item was written the original Indiegogo page has been removed and a new one has risen up in its place, with a lower goal of 40,000 Euros. We have updated the links to reflect this. The flexible funding option has now also been removed, meaning that NG:DEV.TEAM will only get the...
Out Now Rayman Legends (North America)
It's arm-less fun
Rayman Legends is released today in North America, and it arrived in Europe on 30th August. Of course, in a perfect world for the Wii U it would have arrived on the system as an exclusive during the launch window, but despite its controversial route to market it is now here, and earning plaudits from writers and gamers around the...
Interview Designer Luc Bernard Talks Wii U And Crowdfunding His Vision
The man behind Eternity's Child is back
Remember Luc Bernard? He's the guy behind Eternity's Child — the WiiWare title that never was — and has since produced a string of titles such as Mecho Wars and SteamPirates on iOS and Android. A long-time fan of Nintendo, Bernard has been watching the recent developments on the Wii U and 3DS with...
News Bethesda: The Time For Convincing Publishers And Developers To Support Wii U Is "Long Past"
Bethesda’s Pete Hines feels Nintendo has missed the boat
The Wii U badly needs third party support — that's a fact that few people will argue about. With the Xbox One and PS4 looming on the horizon, Nintendo is doing its utmost to attract publishers and developers, but Bethesda’s Pete Hines feels that it's too little, too late. Speaking on...
News Nintendo Has A "Continuing Relationship" With Minecraft Studio Mojang
But there's no news of a Wii U or 3DS version
Minecraft is massive — but you surely don't need us to tell you that. The indie game started life as a PC title but has since made the jump to Xbox 360 and smartphones, picking up millions of new players as a result. The question of Minecraft coming to Nintendo platforms has been asked before, but...
News Rayman Legends on Wii U Wins Digital Foundry Face-Off
Oddly enough, it has something to do with the ol' GamePad
The Wii U version of Rayman Legends has been declared the definitive version of the game in a recent comparison test carried out by Digital Foundry over at Eurogamer. The analysis — which usually focuses primarily on visual performance — considered the Wii U, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and...
News Here's How Much Space Zelda: The Wind Waker HD Will Take Up On Your Wii U
Memory matters
Every Nintendo fan loves hearing about download sizes for major Wii U and 3DS titles — mainly due to the fact that whenever a new game is released you usually have to decide which title you've going to expunge from your console's internal memory because you still haven't gotten around to buying a bigger SD card (in the case of the...
News Rayman Legends Sells More Copies In The UK On Wii U Than Any Other Format
Nintendo's console leads the charge
As we all know, Rayman Legends was intended to be a Wii U exclusive, and a launch title to boot. However, Ubisoft decided against taking the single platform route and delayed the game in order to port it to other systems — a sound business move, but one that angered many Wii U buyers who had been looking forward...
Feature The Biggest Wii U Games of 2013 - Autumn / Fall Edition
The games are coming
At the start of the year we listed what we considered to be ten of the biggest Wii U games of 2013, and as the year has progressed we issued updates for Spring and Summer. As each progressive list shows, game releases and a fair batch of Nintendo Direct surprises can certainly change that outlook, and change is
That really should be that, then
After the $50 price cut for the Wii U 32GB model was announced, some naturally made comparisons to the 3DS price cut of 2011 and wondered whether some form of Ambassador Program would be offered, in which 3DS early adopters received 10 NES and 10 GBA games. The scenarios are different, of course, in that the Wii U...
Interview Hideki Kamiya on The Wonderful 101, Bayonetta 2 and Working With Nintendo
Talks with us about inspiration, sequels, and Internet meltdowns
Hideki Kamiya's personality ripples across everything he touches, growing in strength as it travels and comes out like a roar. His signature, hardcore style is found in a long line of original gems like Viewtiful Joe and Bayonetta; these are titles that, arguably, couldn't have come...
August2013
Review Disney Infinity Figurines
Beyond Infinity, into your home
To fully grasp the concept behind Disney Infinity, it’s important to understand that the whole game uses a meta concept in which things in-game also must exist in real life. Without delving too deep into theories or abstractions, the simplest way to put it is by saying that everything is a toy. Whether it’s the...
Round Table Let's Talk About the 2DS and Wii U Price Cut
It's going to be a bumpy ride
This week certainly wasn't dull in the world of Nintendo. To the surprise of everyone, Nintendo announced the 2DS, a member of the 3DS family that abandons the clamshell design and, yes, the 3D effect. The initial reaction was generally of bemusement, yet Nintendo's target audience of young children and uncertain...
News We're Getting Digital Right On 3DS And Wii U, Insists Reggie
"The consumer is voting with their wallets"
Plenty of people will happily tell you that Nintendo doesn't understand digital, and that the Japanese giant is late to the party and has been outpaced by rivals Microsoft and Sony, who put their respective weights behind online content much earlier and more effectively. Nintendo certainly has some things...
News Disney Infinity Producer Outlines The Features Available To Wii U Players
Nintendo UK interviews John Day to find out more about the game
Disney Infinity is now available on a plethora of platforms including Wii U, 3DS and Wii and there are a range of toys and playsets you can buy to beam into it for some virtual fun. To help give players a feel for the game and how it plays, Nintendo UK has interviewed Disney Infinity...
Video The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD Has a Gorgeous New Story Trailer
So many bright colours
With The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD's release getting ever closer, and with some rather delightful special edition copies and hardware bundles confirmed, Nintendo is clearly confident that the current and potential future Wii U userbase will be keen to experience the revamped GameCube title again or, in some cases, for...
Famed designer still wants to work on Star Fox, too
The Wonderful 101 is Platinum's first title for the Wii U and has met with widespread critical acclaim, scoring 9/10 in our review. Eurogamer recently sat down with director Hideki Kamiya to chat about the production of the title and Platinum's relationship with Nintendo, and the resultant comments...
Weirdness ABC News Tells Us All About How the 2Dees Can Play 3Dees Games
Also the Wii 32GB model, which strangely looks like a Wii U, gets a $50 cut
This week Nintendo of America's Reggie Fils-Aime did what almost any Executive in his position would do, he stated that the Wii U name wasn't the issue with the system, but did point out other areas that clearly have held the console back to date. That said, it's also clear...
News Rayman Legends is Still a Wii U Exclusive in Japan, Apparently
Hooray
Rayman Legends is out now in Europe, with the North America release on 3rd September, and we think it's wonderful. The concensus around the web to date has generally been that this is a top-notch experience that's unmissable, yet for some Nintendo fans it's still a sore point that it's taken this long to arrive, and that it's also nestling on...
News "No Plans" For Ambassador Program Following Wii U Price Cut
Nintendo not looking to replicate 3DS-style free games promotion
When Nintendo dunked the price of the 3DS console soon after launch it tried to pacify early adopters by launching the 3DS Ambassador Program, where owners could download free games to their machine as a reward for paying more at release. With Nintendo recently revealing a Wii U price...
News Nintendo Australia Has No Plans for Wind Waker HD Wii U Bundle or Limited Edition
Perhaps you guys should "Triforcing" them?
Nintendo Australia confirmed earlier today that there are currently no plans to release The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD Wii U Bundle or Limited Edition version. The game is due to release in Australia on 5th October, but will — for the moment at least — only be available in a standard edition...
News Wii U Basic Supply Will Become "Limited" in The UK
The white model will soon be hard to find
Earlier today, Nintendo confirmed there will be a couple of Wii U bundles coming to Europe from 4th October, with The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD - which comes with a beautifully customised GamePad - and LEGO City: Undercover being the games of choice. Both of these bundle
Talking Point Nintendo's Low-Key Approach to the 2DS and Wii U Price Cut Reveals Wasn't Surprising
When going Direct isn't the right call
Yesterday may have brought huge Nintendo news, giving the company coverage on any technology or gaming site that you'd care to mention, but how that news was disseminated was interesting. With major releases we've become accustomed to short-notice Nintendo Direct broadcasts, which build hype and then drop the...
News Nintendo Confirms Wii U "Price Reduction Initiative" in Europe from 4th October
Limited edition LEGO City Undercover Premium Pack also confirmed
Yesterday brought the news that Nintendo of America is applying a formal $50 price cut to the 32GB Wii U model, beginning on 20th September alongside the launch of a limited edition Wind Waker HD bundle. The price cut will apply to standard bundles, also, but while Nintendo of Europe...
News Wii U Name Isn't To Blame For Poor Sales, Says Reggie
"The consumer understands that we have a new system"
The Wii U hasn't had the start that Nintendo would have wanted, with sluggish sales and a slow stream of software making the Wii successor's first year a pretty torrid one. Some critics have pointed out that the name could be to blame, and claim that many consumers aren't even aware that the Wii U...
News Nintendo Featured In Nine Categories At This Year's Golden Joystick Awards
All votes count
Public voting is now open for the 31st Golden Joystick Awards, and the Big N can be found in seven of the fifteen categories this year. Nintendo's strongest area is of course the Best Handheld Section, with five of its biggest exclusives this year in with a chance of winning. Game of the Year Pikmin 3 Fire Emblem: Awakening Most...
Video Let's Take A Closer Look At The Wind Waker HD's Special Edition Ganondorf Figurine
For once, the beast looks beautiful
Yesterday was a good day for The Legend of Zelda fans; Nintendo finally confirmed that the Limited Edition Wii U bundle for The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker HD was not a rumour as previously reported, but was in fact coming to North America on 20th September and Europe on 4th October. If this wasn't enough to whet...
News Reggie Has Seen The Xbox One And PS4 Launch Lineups, And He Says "Meh"
"I feel very good about our lineup"
As we all know, Microsoft and Sony will be launching their next-generation consoles this holiday season. That means additional competition for the already-struggling Wii U, a console which has seen some amazing games and has more in the pipeline, but doesn't enjoy the same depth of third party support as its...
Reaction Nintendo Surprises Us All With the 2DS and Wii U Price Cut
Some NL staffers share their thoughts
Well, today wasn't a sleepy Wednesday for Nintendo. Somewhat out of the blue, both Nintendo of America and Nintendo of Europe issued some major announcements. Nintendo of America gave more specific details on release dates for the most notable games of the Holidays, but both regions were united in revealing the...
Video The Wii U Difference Campaign Explores Entertainment
Rufus Hound gets the popcorn
Earlier this month Nintendo UK employed the services of British comedian Rufus Hound to explain the "Wii U Difference" where he went through the various features of the GamePad, which was lovingly described as "the Wii U's wingman". A couple of weeks later Nintendo released the Hound once more. This time he informed the...
News Scribblenauts Unlimited Scheduled For European Release On Wii U and 3DS This December
We missed you, Maxwell
Last November, we reported on the unfortunate news that 5th Cell had delayed the release of Scribblenauts Unlimited in Europe until 2013. Since then, it's been a bit of a rollercoaster ride for Maxwell's upcoming adventure. After the delay, it was revealed that both Wi
News Super Mario 3D World and Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze Dated for Holiday Bonanza
Tropical Freeze will retail at $49.99, $10 less than Mario's adventure
While naturally eyes are trying to take in the 2DS, which is an actual thing, Nintendo's Wii U strategy continues apace with an official price cut in North America that begins on 20th September — we'd expect other regions to follow suit. We've also had some release dates, and...
News Nintendo Confirms Limited Edition Wii U Bundle For The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD
Download release comes early on 20th September
Update: Nintendo UK has confirmed an equivalent bundle, though it is dated for 4th October, rather than the advance 20th September date in North America. A limited edition boxed version of the game will also be available which will include a Ganondorf figurine and a double-sided title sheet. The...
News Wii Party U Dated, Will Come Bundled With a Wii Remote Plus Controller
All for $49.99
Update: Wii Party U will also arrive in Wii Remote Plus bundles in Europe, dated for 25th October. Listed as "Limited Quantity", there'll be the option of white or black controllers. Original article: As part of Nintendo of America's major information drop today, it's confirmed that Wii Party U Wii Party U will be released in the...
News Wii U Deluxe Model Gets Official $50 Price Cut in North America
Begins on 20th September
After months of speculation and increasing doubt, Nintendo has taken the plunge and confirmed an official price cut on the Wii U Deluxe 32GB model. This takes the form of a new "suggested retail price" of $299 in North America, a $50 cut announced today at the GameStop Managers Show in Las Vegas; the new price will begin on...
News The Wonderful 101 Struggles In Its First Week At Japanese Retail
Just 5,258 copies sold - a less than wonderful start
The Wonderful 101 is a truly fantastic piece of software, and one of the best Wii U games we've played this year. Sadly, the quality of product hasn't translated into sales, as the game has shifted less than 5,500 copies in its native Japan, according to Media Create's data. Platinum's Wii U...
News Pure Chess Developer: Wii U Is "Quite A Beast Of A Machine"
Bringing the game to the eShop was a "no brainer"
Chess is a game of incredible depth and tactics, and thankfully Wii U owners will be getting a digital version in the form of Pure Chess very soon. Mark Williams of developer VooFoo has been chatting with Official Nintendo Magazine about the forthcoming release, and had some glowing words of praise...
News Say What You Will About Nabbit, But He's Helped A Blind Girl Enjoy Games
Your heart will be warmed
Video gaming is a predominantly visual medium, and it's very easy to take for granted that you need a pair of functioning eyeballs to really get the most out of interactive entertainment. For those who have sight issues, gaming is largely — and sadly — off-limits. However, for a little girl called Jennifer — who can...
News The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD Confirmed for 4th October in North America
Same day as in Europe
Earlier this month Nintendo of Europe took the opportunity to confirm 4th October as the release date for The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD, though Nintendo of America stuck with its October window. Today it seems that the release date for North America was revealed, buried within a press release for the Zelda art...
News Just Dance Kids 2014 Bringing its Groovy Moves to Wii U and Wii
Arrives in late October
The Just Dance series has been selling millions of copies and embarrassing gamers without much rhythm for a good few years, and the Kids series has been doing the same for a younger audience. Unsurprisingly, then, Ubisoft has confirmed Just Dance Kids 2014 for both the Wii U and Wii, with a release date of 22nd October in...
Talking Point The Wii U's Limited Hard Drive Space and Future Install Headaches
It's not just about installing eShop games
Splinter Cell Blacklist, on every platform but Wii U, has install options either mandatory or optional. According to analysis from Digital Foundry there are possible trade-offs on Nintendo's system as a result, with longer loading times and some weaker textures that are improved with an optional install on...
News Gamescom and GDC Europe Hit Record Attendance Levels
Cologne confirmed as the location for 2014
In the past couple of weeks there's been plenty going on in Cologne, Germany, with GDC (Game Developers Conference) and Gamescom attracting industry professionals and fans from around the world. Both events hit new heights in terms of attendances, too, leading the organisers to declare the same host city...
News Splinter Cell Blacklist Wii U Version's Performance Put Under the Spotlight
Digital Foundry compares it to the 360, PS3 and PC versions
Splinter Cell Blacklist is Ubisoft's latest Sam Fisher-led title, seeking to provide a solid blend of the action-focused Conviction with the stealth gameplay so popular in its predecessors. It's also one of a good number of Ubisoft multi-platform titles that's also on the Wii U, and the...
News The Wonderful 101 Misses the Top 20 in UK All-Format Charts
Not enough wonder-green spent on the game
Last week brought the arrival of The Wonderful 101 to the Wii U, which in our view is a terrific and unique exclusive for the system. Unfortunately for PlatinumGames' bombastic action title it's had a major struggle to earn early sales in the UK, with this week's UKIE all-format chart showing the new title...
Worth waiting for
The original release of Rayman Legends was supposed to be in rather different circumstances. What was once a launch window exclusive at the top of various wishlists is now a multi-platform arrival in a busy game season. While that's a pity, this is still the same project that was so eagerly anticipated in 2012, and it delivers on...
News Level-5 Announces Wonder Flick, A New RPG Coming To The Wii U In Japan Next Year
Flick 'em up
During Level-5's Vision event today in Japan, the company behind the popular Professor Layton series announced it has a new game in development: Wonder Flick. The title will be a touch-centred RPG and is set for release on the Wii U in Japan in 2014. It will also release on other platforms such as PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3,...
News New Assassin's Creed IV Trailer Shows Edward Kenway At His Stealthiest
He's a sneaky one
As you can imagine Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag was given a lot of attention at Gamescom and Ubisoft chose the occasion to reveal a new trailer showing off the stealth elements of the upcoming release. During the video we see our hero Edward Kenway target three nasty individuals who need to be eliminated and like all good...
News Ubisoft: Nintendo Has "Some Of The Best IP In The World", But Needs To Work On Communication
"There are so many great franchises that are still making people dream"
Ubisoft executive director Alain Corre has confirmed that his company continues to have faith in Nintendo, despite the rather poor sales of the Wii U. Speaking to IGN, Corre pointed out that Nintendo's incredible pool of franchises should be enough to pull the console through...
News Team Ninja Still Keen To Continue Wii U Support, But Not With Ports
"I think there are games that would be good for Wii U"
Team Ninja head Yosuke Hayashi has stated that his company is still interested in developing for the Wii U, but it wants to focus on original content — and not ports like Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor's Edge. Speaking To Joystiq, Hayashi said: Of course, I think there are games that would be good...
Developer Interview Mathew Solie on Disney Infinity, Toy Box Inspiration and Future Potential
Producer sheds light on infinite possibilities
At the time of writing, Disney Infinity has just recently launched in both North America and Europe. With its use of collectible figurines that can be used as playable characters in-game and the inclusion of cross-platform user generated content, the new title from Disney Interactive is making leaps and...
News Club Nintendo Japan Gets A Trio of Awesome T-Shirts
Pikmin 3, Wonderful 101 and Wind Waker threads now available
Club Nintendo in North America and Europe has had a few neat little additions in recent weeks, with the Pikmin tote bag and keyrings, but Club Nintendo Japan may have just topped them all with the inclusion of three T-shirts based on some of the latest Wii
Rumour The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD Trailer Shows a Special Edition Wii U Design
So pretty
In recent weeks we've seen sketchy rumours of a Wii U bundle with The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD become increasingly reliable. The Gamescom build of the game has also revealed a Hero Mode and a host of other details, so Nintendo is clearly gearing up the hype ahead of an October rel
Apart from the no Wii U games thing, that is
At times we exist in a Twilight Zone in video game land. A major publisher will say something and we'll think "oh, that's nice", and then we'll look at what's actually happening and think, "eh?" It's a bizarre world where words uttered have little relation to reality, where straight lines and honest talk...
News New Trademarks Hint at Pokémon Tretta Localisation
Pokéfigure Arena could be a thing, too
Some of you may recall our reports on the 3DS download Pokémon Tretta Lab, an app in Japan that mimics Tretta arcades. These are Pokémon battling games that require collectible plastic discs, which are detected by a reader and turned into a 'mon on screen. In the case of the arcades winning a battle awards...
Video Snazzy New Trailer Shows Off Wii U Exclusives
Epic visual cues... Check!
If there's one aspect of the Wii U that's a consistent comfort to those with any concern for the platform, it's that there's an enticing lineup of exclusive software on the way. Although there are inevitably more reveals to come in future months, there's a strong lineup for the remainder of the year and some blockbuster...
News Sales Data Demonstrates a Slow Wii to Wii U Transition Compared to Past Generations
The little system goes on and on
Over the past nine months, since the Wii U arrived on the scene, we've seen the inevitable launch day sell-outs make way for a drop-off in sales. As a trend that's fairly common, though in the case of Nintendo's system the loss of momentum was pronounced by an absence of killer software, and it's endured some...
News Ubisoft: ZombiU Development Was a Learning Experience in Second Screen Gameplay
Have "learned some interesting [things about] gameplay thanks to the Wii U"
When the Wii U launched it was inevitable that the day one library would make sketchy use of the system's GamePad. Nintendo Land was a showcase, but other releases such as Assassin's Creed III did little beyond offer menus, maps and a horse whistle. One of Ubisoft's other...
Out Today The Wonderful 101 (Europe)
101 reasons to download a new wallpaper, today!
Every generation there are great games that seem to be overlooked and don't translate into sales success, so is The Wonderful 101 heading for the same end result? Over the past few weeks we've heard rumours of The Wonderful 101 having limited distribution of 30,000 units to retailers in Japan, while...
News Iwata Asks Delves into The Wonderful 101, Reveals Hidden Characters
Kamiya unites with allies for part two of this wonderful interview
The Wonderful 101 is being released tomorrow in Europe (23rd August) and part two of Iwata Asks has now emerged. This time round the game’s director Hideki Kamiya has united with some familiar allies to assist him in his interview with Nintendo President Satoru Iwata: Atsushi...
News The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD Hero Mode Details Sail Into View
Available from the start
Rumours have been swirling around for a number of weeks that upcoming Wii U release The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD would have an extra difficulty level, though details were scarce. There was naturally speculation on whether it would affect the in-game world and puzzles, like the Master Quest in The Legend of Zelda:...
News Boxed Copy of New Super Luigi U Available This Sunday in North America
The wait for a physical release is almost over
New Super Luigi U has been available in the Wii U eShop for a while now and Europeans have been able to grab boxed version from retailers for a good few weeks. North Americans have had to be patient, but the wait for a physical copy is nearly over. The packaged-disc version of New Super Luigi U will be...
News Sonic Lost World Deadly Six Bonus Edition Confirmed For North America and Europe
Sonic's having a NiGHTMARE
Yesterday we brought you the news of a special Wii U version of Sonic Lost World that contains content from the classic title NiGHTS into Dreams.... It was revealed in a UK trailer for the game but did not announce any other regions. Well, fear not, as SEGA has now confirmed the Sonic Lost World Deadly Six Bonus Edition...
Talking Point Gamescom Announcements Raise the Stakes for the Wii U and 3DS
Nintendo yet to reveal its full hand
In a typical year Gamescom is a vibrant show, undoubtedly, but not necessarily one that draws a mini-E3 level of headlines. Yet if you're following Microsoft or Sony, this year's show has certainly delivered. It's all about circumstances, and with the two companies launching new hardware no high-profile...
Video Satoru Shibata Gives the Big Tour of Nintendo's Gamescom Booth
With some help from his old buddy Luigi
Gamescom 2013 is underway in Cologne, Germany, and to celebrate the occasion Nintendo has put together a tour of the booth, hosted by Nintendo of Europe boss Satoru Shibata. We get a glimpse of the various systems and games on offer, and also of the "Nintendo Living Room", where a photogenic and happy host...
News The Wonderful 101's Original Concept Included an "All-Star Cast of Nintendo Characters"
The Bayonetta series was on the "brink of disappearing"
Hideki Kamiya, the director of The Wonderful 101, has been in Cologne, Germany to meet fans and the press ahead of the game's release in the region. Naturally, he's also taken the opportunity to talk about PlatinumGames' other Wii U exclusive, Bayonetta 2, which is due to arrive in 2014...
News Nintendo Launches Wind Waker HD Art Competition, Winning Art Will Appear in Zelda Symphony
Oh, and the top five get a console and the game
Update: Nintendo of America has now notified us that, unsurprisingly, this competition is for the U.S. only. You can see full details of how to enter, if you're in the U.S., below. Original Article: The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD is one of the major Wii U releases on the way from Nintendo,...
News PlatinumGames Discusses the Expanded Target Audience of The Wonderful 101
"This is a chance for people who usually don't play Platinum titles"
The Wonderful 101 arrives in Europe this week and on 15th September in North America, and of all the major Wii U retail releases this year is arguably the most unique. Creative, high-octane action titles are somewhat expected of its developer, PlatinumGames, but nevertheless this...
News Sonic Lost World Deadly Six Edition Announced, Features NiGHTS Into Dreams Content
Revealed in a UK trailer, other regions yet to be announced
SEGA has revealed a new UK trailer for Sonic Lost World showing off a special edition that contains "exclusive deadlier game content". There isn't a whole lot of information given as to what will feature in this particular version but it does show off some bosses from NiGHTS Into...
News Crytek Announces New CRYENGINE and Doesn't Exclude Wii U, Champagne Corks are Popped
Press release mention of Wii U is a small but welcome inclusion
Prior to the Wii U launch, there was much back and forth and contradiction over the system's capabilities from a graphical standpoint, and no two developers seemed to have the same stance. For its part Crytek, the company behind the widely-used CryEngine 3, stated that its engine ran...
News Disney Magic Castle Prospers in Japan, Wii U Sales Return to Five Figures
Obon Festival boosts retail results
The latest Japanese sales figures are in, and despite the lack of any major releases the results have brought welcome boosts in software and hardware. This increase in sales is being widely attributed to the Obon Festival (known natively as "Hachigatsu Bon") in Japan, a public holiday that often improves retail...
News Nintendo Confirms Plenty of Wii U and 3DS Shenanigans at PAX Prime
Hideki Kamiya session includes free Wonder-Masks
Earlier today we brought you the surprising news that Retro City Rampage will be playable as a 3DS eShop title at PAX Prime, which takes place from 30th August to 2nd September at the Washington State Convention Center in Seattle. Naturally, Nintendo is bringing a host of games to the event, as well...
News Wii U Unity Development Tools Explained Further at Gamescom
Quick and easy development is possible
Earlier this week Nintendo delivered a presentation on the Web Framework service, outlining how it can enable developers to easily port HTML5 and Javascript games. That was the first of two sessions, and there's now been an equivalent to outline the benefits and ease of using the Unity engine on Wii U...
Video Sonic Lost World Trailer Shows Off Multiplayer and Miiverse Sharing
It's all a bit of a blur
Gamescom 2013 is due to get underway in Cologne on 21st August, and as a result some juicy new trailers and footage are emerging to build some hype. One such trailer is for the Wii U version of Sonic Lost World, and unlike previous efforts that focused on showing new levels, this one demonstrates new features in action...
News Firefly Revealed in New Batman: Arkham Origins Trailer
Robin, hand me the fly repellent Bat Spray!
Anyone following the official Batman: Arkham Origins Twitter account will have noticed Warner Bros. Montreal has been teasing several images and promising a big reveal at Gamescom. The close up screenshots seemed to suggest Firefly would be making an appearance in the upcoming game and the studio has now...
Feature The World of Pikmin 3 on Miiverse
Now that the world's had time to explore
In case you haven't seen it, our video man Rory Cocker has spent the past weeks documenting Pikmin behaviour on Planet PNF-404, bravely filming while trying to send fruit to Nintendo Life HQ to satisfy our snacking habits. If he really wanted to send us some goodies he'd persuade his Pikmin masses to find...
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