Wii U News
March2016
News Five Wii U Releases Confirmed for Nintendo Selects Range in Europe
Will be joined by an equivalent eShop price cut
Update: A kind European tipster (PtM) has pointed out that Nintendo Land is also going to be part of this range in mainland Europe, though evidently not in the UK. Original Article: In recent times Nintendo of America has confirmed a handsome expansion to its Nintendo Selects range (due to launch on...
Video Take a Tour of Super Mario Maker's Key Update and All its New Features
The pun train keeps rolling
Super Mario Maker version 1.6 has arrived on all our Wii U systems, and what a delightful update it is. We decided it was so lovely that it was worth showcasing everything that's new this time around and what better way to do it than an unscripted video where the host stumbles over his words every nine seconds? Check out...
Video Splatoon Co-Director Tsubasa Sakaguchi Has Some Top Tips For Budding Inklings
Newcomers, take note
Splatoon is getting new content this year and has recently passed one million units shipped in Europe. That means there's a lot of new players flocking to the game, and these individuals may well be wondering how they can improve their tactics and get on a level playing field with those who have mastered the title over the past...
News Nintendo Gears Up for Quite a Bit of Network Maintenance This Week
Nintendo Badge Arcade update also inbound
Oh, Nintendo Network maintenance. If it was a person it'd be a slightly cheeky but suspicious boiler repair man, who's friendly and witty but never seems to actually do anything. Nintendo sure likes maintaining its network, and to be fair without this work it'd probably be a hot mess that we'd all complain...
News Nintendo Hardware Sales Climb in Japan Despite Limited New Releases
Vita and PS4 lead the way
It's Media Create Japanese charts time once again, with 3DS and Wii U facing off - as always - with Sony systems. The software results bring new releases in the top three, once again with a dual release across Vita and PS4 (sometimes there are triple releases that also include PS3) leading the way - Gundam Breaker 3. The...
Video The Mashiko Mystery Mushroom Outfit in Super Mario Maker is Evidently Self Aware
We have a special Zelda-themed idea for the next outfit...
We love Super Mario Maker. We love free stuff. So the regular Event Courses and unlockable Mystery Mushroom outfits are a nice treat. We don't necessarily mind that some are Japanese characters we haven't really heard of, because they look cool and they cost us nothing. Yet still, the...
News Splatoon Has Now Shipped One Million Copies In Europe
Staying fresher for longer
Nintendo has confirmed that Splatoon has shipped over one million copies in Europe. The Wii U shooter was one of Nintendo's most robust titles throughout 2015 in terms of sales, and will continue to get new downloadable content in 2016. As well as being a commercial success it has earned considerable critical acclaim,...
Video Nintendo Details Super Mario Maker's "Key Update"
Get it? 'Cause there's keys.
Super Mario Maker just keeps on giving. With the next update planned for 9th March, even more tools and bits will be added to the mix, providing savvy creators all the more opportunities to force players through the products of their gorgeously twisted little minds. Right next to when the update is scheduled to arrive,...
Video Here's All the Changes in Splatoon's Latest Update to Version 2.6
Oh the Tenacity
Splatoon's had more than its fair share of free content updates, and since last week's Nintendo Direct we now know that they haven't finished fiddling with the game just yet. In in effort, we assume, to try and make the game more varied, several changes have been brought into effect for version 2.6. Most notable are the changes to...
Talking Point Nintendo's Fortress of Secrecy Needs to Tighten Security for the Year Ahead
Sharing isn't always the best policy
It seems that not so long ago Nintendo's ability to keep secrets was legendary. When leaks or early slip-ups emerged in past years it was normally a trusted partner that spilled the beans - examples included the occasion when a TT Games employee tweeted a picture of the re-designed Wii U GamePad prior to its...
Video Star Fox Zero's Opening Cutscene Gets Compared to Star Fox 64's
Let's see how you handle our new ships
The release of Star Fox Zero's opening cutscene is still only available in Japanese, but upon closer inspection it looks like we may not need an English translation to know what's going on. The slideshow of stills not only looks familiar, but it's clearly been made as a direct replica of the original opening...
News The Pokémon Company Steps Up Its Promotion of The Pokkén Tournament Championship Series
A trip to the world finals in San Francisco is up for grabs
As competitive Pokémon players know very well we're starting to approach the competitive season. While the current-gen 3DS titles and the Trading Card Game will be in the contests as always, this year is a little different as Pokkén Tournament is also coming into the mix. Having...
News Mario Kart TV Website Confirmed for Closure on 5th April
In-game functionality remains, however
Mario Kart 8 has had a lot of excellent features that have earned it plaudits, such as anti-gravity mechanics, amiibo support and paid-DLC. A much trumpeted feature when it launched, also, was Mario Kart TV, which allows you to upload highlight reels directly to YouTube. Though you can access much of this...
Random Check Out This Japanese Transformable Skell Toy
More than meets the eye
One of the interesting new additions to Xenoblade Chronicles X is the introduction of Skells (or Dolls, for Japanese players), which are basically giant, drivable mechs that make traversing the colossal world of Mira that much easier. While it may be that it takes a large chunk of game time to actually reach a point where you...
Video Feast Your Eyes On Star Fox Zero's Opening Story Cinematic
In Japanese, but still
The story cinematic for Star Fox Zero has appeared online, and although it's entirely in Japanese, it gives you a flavour of the game's plot. As the title is essentially a remake of the N64 title, it's unsurprisingly to learn that Andross is the main antagonist. A few familiar faces appear elsewhere in the footage, and the...
News The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD Leads the Way for Nintendo in UK Charts
Number one in the single-format results
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD is the first of what Nintendo hopes will be a few key releases for Wii U in the next few months. The remaster of the previously successful Wii launch title (which also landed late on GameCube), it's also responsible for kickstarting the year's 30th Anniversary...
Nintendo Life Weekly Pokémon GO! Closed Beta Announced, Beyond Good & Evil 2 NX Rumour and More
Japan only, unsurprisingly
What with a full Nintendo Direct and a whole host of other happenings, you could easily be forgiven for missing some Nintendo news amidst all the hustle and bustle, so as usual we've distilled everything down into a quick and convenient video for your viewing pleasure. This week we're tackling Pokémon GO!'s invite-only...
Particularly on the 3DS
Nintendo, for reasons covered frequently on previous occasions, can no longer rely on sheer volume of releases for 3DS and, in particular, Wii U. What it can do is share its passion for its hardware through its own game releases and how it delivers them to fans. In its 3rd March Nintendo Direct broadcast the company did just...
News Star Fox Guard's Japanese Site Reveals More Details About the Game
Slippy's time to shine
One of the rather surprising announcements to emerge from the recent Nintendo Direct was that the previously shown "Project Guard" was to be repurposed as a new game starring Slippy Toad – called Star Fox Guard – to be launched alongside the release of Star Fox Zero. The Five Nights at Freddy's-esque style gameplay...
Feature Exciting Wii U and 3DS Games to Play in Spring and Summer 2016
Nintendo upped the ante in its most recent Direct
Following Nintendo's latest Direct broadcasts, a much clearer picture of the upcoming goodies on Wii U and 3DS has emerged. It was pitched as a presentation to show off current-gen games in our near-future, and it delivered on just that. Following on from our equivalent list for the first quarter of...
News Twilight Princess Developers Discuss the New Additions to the HD Edition
Also, Aonuma talks a bit more about Zelda U
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD just came out today, allowing western gamers the opportunity to play through the definitive version of the game. While it may be that this is the third release of the game, there have been several small, but no less welcome, tweaks to the gameplay and structure to...
News Nintendo Warns It'll Block Rule Breaker's Access to Super Mario Maker's Online Features
"We hope you understand"
After all the hubbub of the Nintendo Direct, which included confirmation of a major update for Super Mario Maker, Nintendo rather quietly provided a reminder of some key rules that, if broken, could lead to bans from the online 'Course World' component of the game. The notification came on Miiverse, outlining three key...
Poll Did the Wii U and 3DS Nintendo Direct Kickstart 2016?
Aiming for current-gen buzz
Well, Nintendo certainly tried to wow its fans with its first full Direct of the year. Regardless of opinions over the content, what is clear is that there was plenty of it across the different key regions, with a mix of solidified details and surprises thrown in. Considering the timing and content here it's certainly...
News Nintendo Wanted To Produce A Transforming amiibo For Star Fox Zero
Argh-wing
With it being one of the next big home console releases, Star Fox Zero is on the tips of the tongues of many at the moment - especially with yesterday's Nintendo Direct revealing further detail about what the game has to offer. However, some were left disheartened at the lack of a Star Fox amiibo series to enter Nintendo's toys-to-life...
Feature The Big Nintendo Direct Summary - 3rd March 2016
Setting the scene for longer gaming days
It had been a little under four months since the last full broadcast - aside from game-specific efforts - so Nintendo came into its most recent Direct broadcasts with a remit to seize momentum and excite Wii U and 3DS owners. Overall there was plenty to mull over with some surprises and big announcements,...
Video Shigeru Miyamoto's Star Fox Zero YouTube Blitz Has Landed
Lots of talk of an evolving project, utilising the GamePad and more
During the most recent Nintendo Direct broadcast Shigeru Miyamoto appeared on our screens to present Star Fox Zero and Star Fox Guard, confirming their dual release in April. It was a pleasing affirmation that the title has been finished as planned, and we don't have long to wait...
Video Catch Up With All of the North American and European Nintendo Direct Videos
Wrapped up in a nice bow
Well, the Nintendo Direct broadcasts have passed. There were some surprises, quite a few details that were expected, and also information had been on the web ahead of time. We suspect both the European and North American subsidiaries will be looking to plug some leaks in the coming days... There was plenty to enjoy,...
News Hyrule Warriors Legends Season Pass Confirms Four Waves of DLC for 3DS Release
Medli to arrive as a freebie in both versions of the game
Hyrule Warriors Legends aims to catch lightning in the bottle, converting the excitement that surrounded the Wii U original into strong sales to the far larger 3DS userbase. Of course, that original title was jam packed with paid DLC, and Nintendo has now confirmed that the portable iteration...
News Mini Mario and Friends amiibo Challenge Launching April 28th in North America
Or March 25th from partipating retailers...
A new amiibo tie-in title is coming to both the Wii U and 3DS, paying homage to the Mario and Donkey Kong series. Mini Mario and Friends amiibo Challenge is a free game available on the eShop and is compatible with select amiibo figures, mostly from the Super Mario series. With over 60 levels, you will...
News New Animal Crossing amiibo Coming to North America in June
More cards and figures for amiibo collectors
Amiibo fans rejoice! A new Animal Crossing amiibo will be launching on June 10th, alongside series 4 of the popular amiibo cards. The brand new Isabelle amiibo - in her summer outfit - will debut alongside Isabelle in her winter outfit, previously only available in the Animal Crossing: amiibo Festival...
News Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games Gets a Summer Release Date for Wii U
Nintendo shows off Sevens rugby, too
Mario and Sonic used to be arch enemies, but now they settle their differences in sporting competitions. Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games is the next in this sports-crossover series, and will be hitting the Wii U on 24th June, following the closer arrival of the 3DS version. Footage showed off two...
News Lost Reavers Open Beta Kicks Off On The Wii U eShop This April
With the full release following closely behind
Bandai Namco's free to play Wii U eShop offering Lost Reavers - once upon a time known as Project Treasure - is coming to the west this year, it has been confirmed. An open beta for the game will launch on April 14th, with the full release happening on April 28th. These release dates apply for both...
News Splatoon Updates to Continue Into 2016
Contains balancing, tweaks, and weapon sets
The hit multiplayer title Splatoon will be receiving some new updates throughout 2016. Beginning on March 8th, an update will address balancing issues regarding specific gear abilities. Some will recieve a buff making them stronger on the battlefield, while others a small nerf. Additionally, tweaks to...
News Genei Ibun Roku #FE Is Now Called Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE In The West, Arrives In June
Let's dance
Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem mash-up Genei Ibun Roku #FE finally has a solid release date in the west, as well as a flash new title. It's going to be called Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE in North America and Europe, and arrives in both regions on June 24th. It was also confirmed that the game's Japanese vocal track will remain...
News Super Mario Maker To Get Major Update On March 9th
Spike pillars, keys, pink coins and more
We've said it many times already, but Super Mario Maker truly is the game that keeps on giving. On 9th March a free software update will add a Super Expert mode to the 100-Mario Challenge; it's unlocked after players clear Expert mode. Super Expert Mode dishes out six extremely tough courses - additionally,...
News Paper Mario Colour Splash Coming to Wii U
The next entry in the beloved series
After much anticipation, the next console title in the Paper Mario franchise was announced during the most recent Nintendo Direct - Paper Mario Colour Splash. Equipped with his new weapon, the Paint Hammer, Paper Mario must help the citizens of Prism Island bring colour back to their home. Once in battle, using...
News Star Fox Zero Launching April 22nd on Wii U
Comes bundled with a special surprise
During today's Nintendo Direct, it was confirmed that Star Fox Zero will make its long awaited debut on 22 April 2016, exclusively on Wii U. Producer Shigeru Miyamoto detailed that the game pays homage to Star Fox 64 while featuring many new game mechanics. Throughout the game's levels branching paths will...
Live Blog Watch the North American March 2016 Nintendo Direct - Live!
Wii U and 3DS goodies inbound
It's the first full Nintendo Direct of the year, which promises news on Wii U and 3DS games that we'll get to play in Spring and Summer. We're expecting updates on much anticipated games and even some surprises, with Reggie Fils-Aime and Bill Trinen likely to lead the way. <liveblog...
Live Blog Watch the European March 2016 Nintendo Direct - Live!
The time is now
It's been quite a wait, somewhat punctuated by a special Pokémon broadcast, but we now have the first full Nintendo Direct of 2016. Satoru Shibata and Ed Valiente will be our hosts to show off Wii U and 3DS games on the way in Spring and Summer. <liveblog id="watch_the_european_march_2016_nintendo_direct_-_live"...
Video Catch Plenty of Pokkén Tournament Footage in the First Nintendo Countdown Clash
With surprising results
Earlier this week we told you about the Pokkén Tournament 'Countdown Clash' series, in which Nintendo UK seeks votes via social media for a range of battles that are played out in the game. Those that enter (and are in the UK) have a chance of winning a copy of the game and one of the special pro pads, but more importantly...
Feature What We Expect from Nintendo Direct - 3rd March
The temperature rises for Wii U and 3DS
Following the quickfire Pokémon Direct that arrived in late February, we now have a full-fat Nintendo Direct to look forward to. With clear expectations set by Nintendo - Spring and Summer games for Wii U and 3DS - along with trademark postings and the obligatory 'leaks' that always precede any broadcast,...
Video Unleash The Monster Inside With These Japanese Pokkén Tournament Commercials
Father and son bonding
Pokkén Tournament is almost upon us, and Nintendo has published two light-hearted commercials in Japan to build up interest in the crossover brawler. Both spots feature a father and his son huddled around the television, happily duking it out in the game. This tranquil scene is interrupted by comical turns to camera and...
Video Check Out the Tanooki Statue Mario Costume in Super Mario Maker
How stealthy
The regular costume updates for Super Mario Maker keep right on rolling, with Barbara the Bat and Chitoge Kirisaki being the most recent additions. Though many of you will soon be able to scan in the Wolf Link amiibo, one more classic costume has just been added ahead of the canine hero's appe
Release window discrepancies point to varied regional broadcasts
Thinking back to some older Nintendo Direct broadcasts between Europe and North America, the formula used by both was often largely the same - there'd be shared segments from Japan led by former company President Satoru Iwata, and then regional sections that specified local promotions...
News Mega Man Legacy Collection Busts Into Japanese Charts as Nintendo Hardware Sales Climb
Slow and steady
It's Media Create charts time for Japan once again, and this week brings some smaller new releases and some modest (but still welcome) gains for Nintendo hardware. The big winner this week is Kamen Rider: Battride War Genesis, which claimed top spot on PS4 along with 3rd and 4th on Vita and PS3. The retail release of Mega Man Legacy...
News No Disney Infinity 4.0 In 2016, But Support For 3.0 Will Continue Via New Play Sets
"We've heard your requests to extend the life of our Starter Packs"
Disney Infinity won't be getting another sequel this year, but the existing Disney Infinity 3.0 will continue to get support in the form of new play set packs. In an official statement, the team behind the series said it had listened to fan feedback before making the decision: We...
News A Wii U and 3DS Nintendo Direct Is On the Way
Spring and Summer releases are on the agenda
Following the recent Pokémon Direct and reveal of Pokémon Sun and Moon, Nintendo has opted to maintain momentum and hype with a fresh Nintendo Direct focused on Wii U and 3DS. As you can see below, this will be focused on Spring and Summer releases and is going down on 3rd March at 2pm Pacific / 5pm...
Interview Eiji Aonuma and Tomomi Sano Shed Light on The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD
The balance of modernising and showing faith to the original
The Wii U is about to receive its second Legend of Zelda HD remaster. Following the success of The Wind Waker HD, we now have Twilight Princess HD on the way to share the decade-old GameCube / launch Wii title with a new audience. We think that the upcoming release is
Video Nintendo's Super Mario Maker Showcase of the Wolf Link Costume is Rather Cute
D'aww, look at the heroic puppy
As discovered recently, in an article that also had 'cute' in the headline, the Wolf Link amiibo unlocks a rather charming mystery mushroom outfit in Super Mario Maker. It might as well, too, as there seem to outfits for every other darn thing Nintendo and its partners can think of - that's not a complaint, but an...
News Digital Foundry Gives a Thumbs Up to Twilight Princess HD, Though There Are Framerate Dips
A few effects can't quite hold 30fps in 1080p
With The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD around the corner you'll have seen that a glut of reviews have popped up, including ours, and now Eurogamer's Digital Foundry has produced an updated 'face-off' article comparing the new release with its GameCube and Wii predecessors. Overall, the...
Feature Eiji Aonuma Reminisces on How Twilight Princess Connected His Work and Family
An adventure for his wife and son
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD is out this week (3rd March) and in our review we've been full of praise for the release. An entry in the series that can certainly cause some debate among fans, this writer is firmly in the camp that believes in its merits, with the Wii U edition being a definitive version...
Hands On How Indie Hit Terraria Is Building Multiplayer Mayhem Into Its Wii U Port
Will provide "content parity" with other console editions
Terraria still doesn't have a firm release date on Wii U yet, but it's getting close. Spending time with the game recently we had the chance to see first hand how it used the touch screen of the Wii U's GamePad and multiplayer via its Wii Remotes. The first thing to say is that it looks...
Review The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD (Wii U)
I have come to play!
It's been the generation of remakes for The Legend of Zelda. The main entries from the N64 and GameCube have now all been given the remaster treatment, though many will think of this title as a Wii game. A decade on from its original waggle-heavy release, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD gives a second chance to one of...
News Enjoy the Madness of the CoroCoro Splatoon Manga For Free
Admire the artwork online
CoroCoro Magazine often has some handsome exclusives and details in Japan, the latest of which is a Splatoon manga series. The inky shooter has gone from strength to strength in less than a year on the market, rapidly becoming a popular franchise - with all the licensing and merchandise that can entail - for Nintendo...
Video Watch Pokémon Get Juggled in This Pokkén Tournament Combo Showcase
Ouch
While the standard flashy marketing trailers are steadily rolling out for the upcoming release of Pokkén Tournament, Nintendo UK is keeping its capture device busy in order to produce its own run of videos. It's kicked off a Countdown Clash series, but has also clearly been working on other videos to show the game off. The latest is a combo...
February2016
Review Brunswick Pro Bowling (Wii U)
You still have that membership for Wii Sports Club, right?
What's the meaning of life? We all have wondered about it at least once in our lives. Whether it's on the commute, while taking a shower or when rolling a bowling ball down the lane. When you think about it, Bowling is pretty similar to life, a continuous cycle that depends on numerous...
Video Nintendo UK Launches Pokkén Tournament Countdown Clash Series
Learn about fighters and predict outcomes
Pokkén Tournament is just a few weeks away on Wii U, all set to bring its brand of Pokémon brawling into our living rooms. Nintendo will no doubt be promoting it quite heavily, and for its part Nintendo UK is launching a 'Countdown Clash' series; the idea is that videos will introduce match-ups, we all...
Video Zelda U Easter Egg Found Within Twilight Princess HD
Oh Nintendo, you tease...
March is a great month for Zelda fans, for The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD is looming around the corner, and Hyrule Warriors Legends isn't much further away either. However, the crème de la crème title that most (if not all) Zelda fans are looking forward to is the new Legend of Zelda title for the Wii U,...
News Nintendo of America Confirms New Wii U, 3DS and Wii Nintendo Selects Titles for 11th March
Just $19.99 each
In mid-February a retailer listing from Canadian store VGP Video Games Plus pointed to a new batch of Nintendo Selects titles being on the way to North America. The good news is that the listing was accurate, with Nintendo of America confirming that the range of Wii U, 3DS and Wii games will be available for $19.99 - that's the US...
News Bravely Second: End Layer Secures a Decent Start in the UK Charts
Pokémon Super Mystery Dungeon also shows decent momentum
Bravely Second: End Layer recently made its debut in Europe, and it's certainly another one to add to the list of excellent RPG experiences on the 3DS. The sequel delivers on various fronts, and has had a decent start in the UK charts. On its debut week the Nintendo / Square Enix-published...
News Sakurai Talks About the Development Process Behind the Smash Bros. DLC Stages
Lots of attention to detail
The DLC for Super Smash Bros. 4 drew to a close earlier this month, easily making this the most packed version of Smash Bros. to date. Naturally, there's a lot of franchises from across many companies that could easily belong in a Smash Bros. game, and the process of deciding who and what gets represented likely isn't one...
Nintendo Life Weekly Pokémon Generation 7 Sun & Moon Revealed, EA NX Rumours and More
Praise the sun!
It's been a whirlwind of a week for all those interested in the happenings of Nintendo, so we can't blame you if some of the big news somehow slipped under your radar. That's why we have once more cobbled the biggest and best news of the week together with all the eShop releases, our reviews and more. This week we're looking at...
Video See What Wonders Lie inside Twilight Princess HD in our Unboxing
Wolf Link amiibo as standard
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD has a limited edition of sorts, although for some reason the box doesn't describe it so. Nevertheless we've done out best to crack open this box of tricks and see what's inside. We managed to get our hands on the EU version to the surprise of no one, which comes bundled with the...
Video The Twilight Princess Development Team Discuss Character and Plot Origins
Eiji Aonuma has the strangest dreams
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD, for those that didn't play the original on GameCube or Wii, will provide an intriguing and at times dark story for first-time players. There are moments of surreal imagery, some twists, and the basic fact that you run around as Link in Wolf form. The origins of the...
Video Prepare for Drama in The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD's Launch Trailer
Nintendo of America also weighs in with TV trailer
Update: Nintendo of America has now released a rather nice TV commercial, too. Original Article: The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD is just a week away at the time of writing, which is certainly something to be pleased about for fans of the series with a Wii U. Nintendo has been ramping...
News Nintendo Acknowledges Tough Conditions by Cutting Profit and Sales Forecasts
Wii U game sales to exceed expectations, though
During its most recent financial reports, Nintendo reported some underwhelming results while sticking to its projections; with the dust having now settled the company has actually downgraded its expectations for sales and profits for the rest of the financial year (up to 31st March). To start with the...
News Planet Diver Aims For The Core On The Wii U eShop
Steam and mobile title coming to the eShop soon
Indie developer Fabraz has announced that its action title Planet Diver is coming to the Wii U eShop in the not-too-distant future. The game, which boasts pixel-heavy retro visuals and a cool anime visual style, has already appeared on Steam and Android. Assuming the role of a daredevil wingsuit...
Video Let the Hype Intensify With the Pokkén Tournament CGI Intro
Just weeks away...
Pokkén Tournament is one of the Wii U's biggest releases this year, with the fighting title escaping arcades to arrive on the home console with extra modes and content. It's not far away from its 18th March release date, either, and Nintendo is keen to build the hype. Nintendo's official channels have released the CGI intro...
Oh, and David Wise is doing the soundtrack. Excited yet?
Rhys Lewis might have "indie game developer" on his business card these days, but his career has been anything but small-scale. Lewis has held roles at Rare, Confounding Factor, 3D Realms and Retro Studios, and can list titles like Banjo-Kazooie, Duke Nukem Forever, Metroid Prime 3, Donkey...
Video Eiji Aonuma and Colleagues Reflect on Development of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
Including 'that' E3 reveal
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD isn't far away, with Wii U owners not having long to wait before tackling the remastered adventure. Ahead of its release on 4th March, Nintendo is stepping up its marketing and has now launched a new retrospective video series. In the first part, A Look Back, Eiji Aonuma and...
News 3DS Hardware Sales Dip in Japan, Though Mario & Sonic at the Rio Olympics Gets Off the Blocks
Sony hardware dominance with popular new releases
It's the middle of the week, which means it's Media Create results time, showing us what's hot and what's not in Japan. The results show key releases on Sony hardware having an impact, while one new arrival on 3DS does its best to compete. Kan Colle Kai has started strongly on Vita, while Attack on...
News Barbara the Bat Costume Comes to Super Mario Maker
Jam out
Jam with the Band was a brand new rhythm game released by Nintendo as a launch title for the Nintendo DS way back in 2004, though it was released as a Japan exclusive. It was followed up a few years later by one more game on the DS, and one on the 3DS; with the only localised game being the first sequel on the DS, which came to Europe...
News Wolf Link Looks Extra Cute in Super Mario Maker Sprite Form, Confirming amiibo Support
What a beast
Super Mario Maker has a dizzying range of Mystery Mushroom characters - some are unique as part of the game and others can be accessed quickly by scanning compatible amiibo. Well, the Wolf Link amiibo that caused quite a ruckus for The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD will have another use when it arrives in early March. Nintendo...
Video Soul Axiom's Launch Trailer Is Part Tron, Part Lawnmower Man
"Welcome to Elysia"
Wales Interactive's intriguing cyber-thriller Soul Axiom has been on our radar for what seems like forever. The spiritual sequel to the studio's previous title Master Reboot, it features a unique artstyle and an interesting futuristic storyline which looks to combine the best bits of Tron, The Lawnmower Man and many other similar...
News 'Malo' Talks About the New Poe Lantern in Twilight Princess HD
Nevermore will you have to wait for nightfall
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD is just a couple weeks away from release, marking the third consecutive console that the game will be released for. Naturally, this isn't going to be just the same game with a fresh coat of paint, but there will be some tweaks to the core gameplay to make it an...
News Katsuhiro Harada on What Sets Pokkén Tournament Apart from Tekken
More than just Tekken + Pokémon
Pokkén Tournament is a little less than a month away from releasing in the west, and early footage of it certainly looks very promising. It's pretty well known that this is being developed by the Tekken team, naturally making one wonder just how similar it plays to the popular 3D fighting games series. While it...
News The Pokémon Splatfest Results Have Been Confirmed
And the winner is...
The Splatoon Splatfest events have often focused on fairly simple conflicts, only dipping into feisty brand-related tussles occasionally. The Transformers event in North America was one example, and this weekend we had the Pokémon generation one event worldwide. With the Virtual Console games arriving on 27th February fans have...
News Masahiro Sakurai Wanted Geno to be a Playable Smash Bros. Fighter
Well, at least we got a costume
The DLC for Super Smash Bros. 4 has finally drawn to a close, and it brought with it fighters both old and new. Interestingly enough, one of the Mii Fighter costumes that got added was based on Geno, the popular character from Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars. While this was no doubt a welcome inclusion for...
Video Watch the Climactic Final Boss Battle in Pokkén Tournament
Spoilers ahoy
Before going any further we'd like to make it abundantly clear that this video does contain content which some may consider to be spoilers. If you'd rather experience the wonder shown below for yourself first hand we advise you divert your eyeballs elsewhere. A new feature in the Wii U version of Pokkén Tournament is the Ferrum...
News Ten Hours of Nintendo Network Maintenance Could Impact Some Online Gaming This Weekend
After Splatfest though, so don't sweat it
Nintendo completing maintenance on its network is a very regular occurrence, in most cases with around two hours of downtime. There is a bit of extended work this coming weekend, though, so it's worth bearing in mind for North American gamers - in particular. The upcoming ten hour window will affect 'some...
Reminder Register and Gear Up for the Pokémon Red & Blue Splatfest
Results to get a global airing
The Splatoon Splatfest events have been a fun regular addition to the outstanding shooter, though the upcoming Pokémon Red and Blue showdown is arguably the best yet. With the Pokémon anniversary around the corner it's perfectly timed and will also likely be extremely close - one Nintendo UK poll on Twitter for...
News Super Mario Maker Picks Up Family Game Of The Year Award At DICE 2016
Satoru Iwata also honoured on the big night
The 19th annual DICE Awards took place last night, and Super Mario Maker was the only Nintendo release to score an accolade. The Wii U create-'em-up won Family Game of the Year at the event, which is organised by The Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences. While Nintendo might not have come away with...
Video Check Out the Chitoge Kirisaki Costume in Super Mario Maker
Well, that came out of nowhere
It seems that the semi-regular updates for new Super Mario Maker costumes are still continuing at full force. The last few costumes have been pretty well known Nintendo characters, such as the first gen Pokémon starters or Princess Daisy, but the newest one will likely be most gamers' first experience with the...
Video Take a Tour of Pokkén Tournament
Full character roster as standard
Earlier today we hosted a livestream where we looked at Pokkén Tournament's various features. If you weren't around for that then fret not, for we've archived the whole thing and slapped it up on our YouTube channel for you all to enjoy on demand. We look at the raw combat with stammering commentary, avatar...
Nintendo Download 18th February (North America)
Fire Emblem Fates! Three Virtual Console games! Sonic discounts! More!
The Nintendo Download Update information for North America has arrived later than normal this week, but here it is. This time around there are two (or three, if you're being pedantic) major retail releases on 3DS, while the Wii U has no less than three Virtual Console arrivals...
News Pokkén Tournament Is Joining The Pokémon Championship Series This Year
Early Access competitions coming to GameStop stores in the US
Fighting game crossover Pokkén Tournament is officially becoming part of the Pokémon Championship Series, it has been confirmed today. The Wii U brawler will be added to the roster for the 2016 event, with the crowning of the Pokkén Tournament World Champions taking place at the...
Random Super Mario Maker Player Clears 'Time for a T-Break' After 12 Hours of Practice
Totally worth it
We have a mild obsession with incredibly difficult Super Mario Maker levels here on Nintendo Life - not actually beating them, don't be silly, but watching others achieve the seemingly impossible. Occasionally we share videos of fiendish creators such as Panga battling through their own stages in order to upload them, but we've...
News The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD Official Website Has Gone Live in North America
Only a few weeks to go
It's hard to believe, but The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD is already almost upon us. The latest remaster in Nintendo's popular adventure series, Twilight Princess HD aims to bring refinements and a fresh coat of paint to the Wii and GameCube classic. We certainly appreciated it in our preview, and it seems to be...
Video Watch Every Single One of Pokkén Tournament's Take on Fatalities
'Synergy Burst Moves' doesn't sound as cool
Before going any further we'd like to make it abundantly clear that this video does contain content which some may consider to be spoilers. If you'd rather experience the wonder shown below for yourself first hand we advise you divert your eyeballs elsewhere. Although Pokkén Tournament doesn't contain...
Preview Punching Pikachus in Pokkén Tournament
Electrifying
Having been available as an arcade game in Japan for some time, Pokkén Tournament is at last making its way to Western shores on the Wii U. Unlike Super Smash Bros., Nintendo's previous collaboration with Bandai Namco, this title takes a much more traditional approach to the fighting genre. You're tasked with knocking out your opponent...
News Shadow Mewtwo's Place in Pokémon Canon Remains Uncertain
Bandai Namco admits "it's not really our decision"
Shadow Mewtwo is quite a big deal in Pokkén Tournament, at least in terms of marketing. Revealed last year with quite a bit of hoopla (not Hoopa, that's different) the character will even have its own amiibo card included in pre-orders and first-run copies of the game. That prominent role in the...
News Shin Megami Tensei IV: Final Storms to Number One in Japanese Charts
3DS nearly catches PS4 as Wii U toils
It's the middle of the week, which means it's time to look at the Media Create chart results for Japan. After a tough couple of weeks for Nintendo hardware things are a little more positive this time around - a new release is the key, of course. Shin Megami Tensei IV: Final arrived last week in Japan and has...
Review LEGO Marvel’s Avengers (Wii U)
Not quite Marvel-lous
The LEGO series is one of the most prolific in modern gaming, capturing hearts way back in 2005 with the earliest Star Wars titles and since evolving into a hugely lucrative franchise. LEGO as a toy brand has arguably never been bigger, and with the IP muscle of Warner Bros. and the specialist skills of developer TT Games / TT...
News TT Fusion Outlines Process for Level Design in LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens
It's true. All of it.
Those that have played a lot of LEGO games, particularly those tied to movies, know the drill by now. Iconic scenes, some of which that are actually light on action, are recreated and exaggerated in order to deliver fun, accessible gaming. It's a formula that works well, too, even if over-familiarity may be leading to a little...
News Hyperkin's ProCube Controller is Heading to GameStop in North America
Currently out of stock on official website
The GameCube may be Nintendo's worst-selling home console to date - the Wii U could, in theory catch it - but it's not without its loyal fans. The system's controller, in particular, has such a devoted following that the special edition Super Smash Bros. Wired Pad and the accompanying Wii U adapter were hot...
News New Splatoon Manga Series Coming to Bessatsu CoroCoro in Japan
The continuing rise of the IP
When reeling off Nintendo's biggest franchises the brand names are familiar - Mario, Metroid, The Legend of Zelda and so on. Yet Splatoon, having made such an impact on the Wii U in 2015, could potential evolve to join that list of big-hitters. The ink-splatting shooter has become a hit not just in terms of sales, but...
Random Luigi Defeats Every Smash DLC Character By Doing Absolutely Nothing
"I'm-a Luigi, number one!"
For the most part, computer-controlled opponents can provide a plentiful challenge in video games (depending on the player of course). However, YouTuber Omega Tyrant has proven that sometimes the minimalist approach can be the key to success, as his video below shows Luigi win against every CPU-controlled (all on level...
News Exclusive Content and Modes Outlined for Pokkén Tournament, No DLC Currently Planned
Plus three new support characters
Pokkén Tournament is now surprisingly close with around a month to go to its 18th March arrival on Wii U. The move from arcades to the home console has been long anticipated, along with the hope that it'll deliver a full-on fighting game experience for Pokémon fans. Though some basic modes and details were...
Video Take a Look at More Twilight Princess HD Gameplay And Features
A better tastebud tickler than Lon Lon Milk
In addition to the earlier official trailer uploaded to YouTube last week, Nintendo has revealed another video showcasing more The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD goodness - and this time with voiceover! There's nothing new to scream about here, for the video regurgitates information that we already...
News Splatoon Producer on Pre-Release Concerns and the Future of the Franchise
"I'd like to build on online gameplay even more."
Splatoon was, in many ways, a new step for Nintendo. The company has historically been a bit behind the times when it comes to online services, so it appeared to be quite a risk to not only release a game that was almost entirely focused on online multiplayer, but to do so with a brand new IP...
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