3DS eShop News
August2015
Nintendo Download 20th August (North America)
Escher-like puzzles, robots, crab cakes, Gunstar Heroes and Daves
It's time for another Nintendo Download Update in North America, and this week serves up a fairly diverse range of options. We have many promising Indie efforts on Wii U, a Sega Genesis classic reborn in 3D along with lots of other downloadable delights. Let's get to the details...
News M2's Porting of Gunstar Heroes To 3DS Was Almost In Vain
Sega didn't even know M2 was working on Gunstar Heroes
This week sees the western launch of 3D Gunstar Heroes, the latest in Sega's line of 3DS-based 3D Classics. It's one of the most beloved games of the 16-bit era, and also one of the most technically impressive Genesis/Mega Drive titles seen so far. Yosuke Okunari, producer at Sega, and Naoki...
News Fresh SteamWorld Heist Screenshots Show Off New Enemy Class
Meet The Royalists
SteamWorld Heist is heading to the 3DS this Fall with a release on Wii U and other platforms to follow, and Image & Form's latest is sure to be one of the eShop's big ticket releases in the remainder of this year. Our chums at Image & Form have kindly provided us with 6 new screenshots of the game which can be seen below...
News Nintendo Hosting Nindies@Night At EMP Museum In Seattle
The night before PAX Prime, in fact
Nintendo is teaming up with Seattle's EMP Museum for a special Nindies@Night event prior to this year's PAX Prime. The evening will feature competitions, giveaways, presentations and of course the chance to play some of the unique indie titles coming to the Wii U and 3DS eShops. Here's the press release: Fans...
Nintendo Download 20th August (Europe)
The Bridge, ZaciSa, Wario, 3D Gunstar Heroes and more
The beginning of a new week brings us the European Nintendo Download Update, and this week brings some interesting option. On the Wii U we have a critically acclaimed and stylish puzzle title along with a heavily updated budget release and a DS game, while on 3DS we have the latest SEGA 3D...
News 3DS Homebrew Hacker Turns to YouTube App As Latest Workaround for 'Tubehax'
Follows the removal of IRONFALL Invasion from the eShop
Early this month the rather niche 3DS homebrew scene had a key evolution, moving away from requiring a specific retail game - namely Cubic Ninja - and utilising a free download to trigger the workaround. It's a small-scale scene compared to the DS days, but the homebrew launcher efforts of...
News Nintendo Removes Ironfall Invasion From 3DS eShop Ahead Of Ironhax Exploit Release
Beaten to the punch
A short time go we reported on the Ironhax exploit which would allow 3DS users to run homebrew and unsigned code on their consoles. The work of Jordan "Smealum" Rabet, Ironhax was unique in that unlike other methods, it didn't require the user to purchase a physical game in order to make it run - Ironfall Invasion is a...
News The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth's New 3DS Patch is Now Being Tested by Nintendo
It's still coming, as is our review
The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth has arrived on Wii U in North America and is rather good, but the New Nintendo 3DS-exclusive version has encountered issues. A range of initial bugs were patched out rather quickly, but that update seemed to trigger an issue that freezes the game entirely in some cases. The
Review Japanese Rail Sim 3D Journey to Kyoto (3DS eShop)
This train has gone off the rails
Japanese Rail Sim 3D Journey to Kyoto is the sequel to Journey in Suburbs #1, which was released in June of this same year. Just like its predecessor the title centres around the idea of playing the role of a train conductor in Japan, in this case the city of Kyoto; unfortunately this title fails to change the...
Nintendo Download 13th August (North America)
Pandora's Tower, a wound up Knight, Tank heroism and more
It's time for another Nintendo Download Update, and this time around we have an 'Operation Rainfall' arrival on the Wii U eShop alongside a runner, while on 3DS we have tank battling and a few other options. There are also a load of discounts thrown in, so let's get to the details. Missed...
Video You Can Turn Boss Weapons Against Their Owners In Mega Man Legacy Collection's Challenge Mode
Give them a taste of their own medicine
Mega Man Legacy Collection will contain plenty of goodies, and one of the most appealing is the challenge mode which features speed runs, remixes and a boss rush element. That's right, you can fight the characters who are arguably the stars of each title, and even use their own weapons against them -...
News Enter a Crazy Code to Unlock a New Character in the Dragon Ball Z: Extreme Butoden Demo
Super Saiyan God Super Saiyan Vegeta, apparently
Update: Thanks to the comments and a quick web search this demo is actually available in North America, somewhat negating our first line below. While it was promoted and given a 'shelf' in Europe, its release in NA has been rather stealthy - apparently a search for the name or a rummage through the...
Continued conundrums
The Picross e series seems to have settled in its ways now, not choosing to add any more additional features and simply having new sets of puzzles with each release. Picross e6 is no exception, once again playing it very safe and just giving you more pictures to unveil. Again, the three available modes are Picross, Micross and...
Review Ninja Usagimaru - The Gem of Blessings (3DS eShop)
Block Ninjutsu
If there's anything that movies, television and games have taught us, it's that ninja are deadly. Give them knives, blow darts, ninja stars and swords and they're virtually unstoppable. Ninja Usagimaru - The Gem of Blessings proves that they don't need any of those things to be vicious. Give a ninja a simple addition of a block to...
News Try Not to Get Too Merry While Checking Into SteamWorld Heist's Bars
Hire crew, check missions, buy new gear
SteamWorld Heist is heading to the 3DS this 'Fall', with a release on Wii U and other platforms to follow, and Image & Form's latest is sure to be one of the eShop's big ticket releases in the remainder of this year. The developer is now back to normal in serving up weekly updates, too, this time focusing...
Review Swords & Darkness (3DS eShop)
Alone in the darkness
Side-scrolling hack and slash games fall into a tricky genre. It's such a simple concept at its core, but it can easily be ruined by something as basic as poor controls or lack of originality. Swords & Darkness, the latest in the genre to make its way to the 3DS eShop, is an unfortunate example of what happens when little...
News Mega Man And Mighty No. 9 Creator Keiji Inafune Admits He Doesn't Make Games That He Can Play
"My staff, though, are really good"
Keiji Inafune is responsible for some of the most joypad-crushingly difficult games of the 8-bit era, with the Mega Man series being considered the ultimate test of skill by many Nintendo players. However, Inafune has admitted to Kotaku UK that he is in fact a mere mortal and doesn't create games which he himself...
Nintendo Download 13th August (Europe)
Retro Mega Man, a load of discounts and a demo
Another week begins with a Nintendo Download Update, and this week focuses on discounts. We only have one fresh release on the Wii U Virtual Console while the 3DS receives a demo, putting the emphasis on price drops. Let's get to it. Wii U Virtual Console: Mega Man & Bass (Capcom, €6.99 /...
Review Dragon Fantasy: The Volumes of Westeria (3DS eShop)
No longer a fantasy
As some of you are likely aware, Dragon Fantasy: The Volumes of Westeria has been made available on the 3DS eShop in addition to the Wii U eShop. If you'd like a more in-depth analysis of why we love this excellent JRPG, you can find all the details here. So, how does Dragon Fantasy play on the 3DS? Extremely well, easily...
"We are upset as well, just as much as the backers"
As we suggested in our article regarding Mighty No. 9's delay into early 2016, Comcept has endured a tough and damaging period for its image with fans. After the giddy highs of the game's successful Kickstarter campaign in 2013, multiple delays and some poor communication / decision making around...
Video Three Reasons Why You Should Be Pumped For Shovel Knight's Plague Of Shadows Expansion
Straight from the developer
Shovel Knight may no longer be a Nintendo console exclusive, but the game is still one of our personal favourites on the 3DS and Wii U eShops - and it's about to get even better thanks to some free DLC. Showcasing the Plague Knight, Shovel Knight: Plague of Shadows will be delivered entirely free of charge. In case you...
Review Flick Golf 3D (3DS eShop)
Flicked from smartphones to the 3DS
Flick Golf 3D is yet another touch-based mobile game to receive a port onto Nintendo's handheld, having previously been launched in its original incarnation around five years ago on iOS. The title is both accurate and misleading at the same time; there's plenty of flicking to be had, but not too much golf. Flick...
News Patched Version Of Binding Of Isaac: Rebirth Still Blighted By Bugs On New 3DS
Progress is being made on the Euro release, though
The Binding of Isaac certainly took its sweet time coming to a Nintendo platform, but now it's here, fans are finding that it's impacted by disappointing performance woes. At launch the 3DS version of the game was afflicted by bugs, but these were patched by an update shortly afterwards. However,...
News 3DS Free To Play Release Pokémon Rumble World Catches A Big Update
Lucky balloons and a new land to explore
3DS free-to-play release Pokémon Rumble World has just gotten a new update - version 1.1 - which should hopefully bring it back into your conciousness. Updating the game gives access to a new area - called Changing Land - where you're far more likely to encounter Pokémon you've not yet caught. Also added...
Nintendo Download 6th August (North America)
Golden Sun goodness, classic Capcom, Picross, Kung Fu and much more
It's time for another Nintendo Download Update in North America, and this week serves up a fairly diverse range of options. We have two promising Indie efforts on Wii U, while a certain GBA Virtual Console release with 'Golden' in the title may go down well. The 3DS has a couple of...
Review Mercenaries Saga 2: Order Of The Silver Eagle (3DS eShop)
It’s just like Final Fantasy Tactics, but with a cheaper hairstylist
In a time where titles such as Project X Zone, Code Name: S.T.E.A.M. and the upcoming Fire Emblem Fates are renowned for spicing up the turn-based strategy genre, Mercenaries Saga 2: Order of the Silver Eagle opts for keeping the original recipe intact. The result is a game that...
News Big Update For Cube Creator 3D Arrives This Week
Includes new environments, blocks and more
Cube Creator 3D from Big John Games is arguably one of the better Minecraft clones available on the 3DS eShop right now. If you’re located in North America you may have already experienced it. If not, perhaps now is a good time to consider downloading the title with the latest update arriving this week...
News Nintendo Confirms Full Gamescom Line-Up
Including Shovel Knight's 'Plague of Shadows' DLC
Nintendo has been keen to ahead of Gamescom opening to the public with a range of announcements for Europe, covered in other articles, and has also outlined its plans for the show itself. If you are heading along to the world's biggest gaming expo this weekend in Cologne, Nintendo is keen to keep you...
News Get a Taste of Upcoming eShop Goodness in This Awesome Sizzle Reel
Beatbuddy is out today, don't forget
We love a good sizzle reel here at Nintendo Life, and Nintendo of Europe has released a beauty to celebrate its presence at Gamescom. Focused on Wii U and 3DS eShop releases, it rattles through plenty of exciting games that are out now or on the way relatively soon. Many of these are familiar, though its nice to...
Review I am an Air Traffic Controller Airport Hero Narita (3DS eShop)
Not clear for takeoff
Usually the world of video games takes players to far off fictional lands filled with magic and wonder. I am an Air Traffic Controller Airport Hero Narita (yes, that's its actual name) does not take place in such a location. If one couldn't tell from it's exceedingly long and descriptive title (which is going to be referred to...
Nintendo Download 6th August (Europe)
Beatbuddy, Star Fox, DK,Dragon Ball Z demo and more
Another week has begun, bringing with it the European Nintendo Download Update. This time around we have a long-anticipated Indie effort on the Wii U, alongside a lesser known title and two DS releases; the 3DS offers a demo, DLC and plenty of discounts. Let's get to the details. Wii U eShop:...
July2015
News Gunslugs 2 is Bringing Some Pixel Shooting Mayhem to the 3DS eShop
Shoot all of the things
It can seem like most new eShop game announcements are for the Wii U, which is certainly the case. Thankfully promising new download games for Nintendo's portable do come along occasionally, and Gunslugs 2 certainly fits the bill. It's being published by Engine Software, which is experienced in working on the 3DS, and was...
News Brave Tank Hero Rolling Onto The 3DS eShop On August 11th
Wii U eShop version to follow "in the coming weeks"
Natsume has confirmed that it is releasing the 3DS version of Arc System Works' Brave Tank Hero on August 11th in North America. The game is also coming to the Wii U eShop, and will launch on that platform in a few weeks. Here's some information on the game, direct from Natsume itself: It's up...
Nintendo Download 30th July (North America)
Three Kirby games, BADLAND, Xeodrifter, Flick Golf and more
It's time once again for the North American Nintendo Download Update, and this week brings a fairly busy and diverse line-up. The Wii U is offering a triple-header of Kirby games, alongside a welcome port from Renegade Kid and a promising Game of the Year Edition. On 3DS we have a...
Video Image & Form Talks Gamescom and Shows Off SteamWorld Heist on 3DS
Portable version will be playable at the expo
SteamWorld Heist is one of the biggest titles coming to the 3DS eShop this year, and in fact was duking it out as joint leader Mighty No. 9 in a recent poll we ran. As announced during E3 it's coming to the portable first this Fall, too, so attention is shifting from the HD iteration (which will also...
Weirdness The Previously Untold True Story Behind Rusty Pup Developer Gory Detail
(Disclaimer: May not actually be true)
Gory Detail is the studio founded by former Rare developers Christopher "Conker" Seavor and Shawn Pile, and the pair are currently hard at work on The Unlikely Legend of Rusty Pup, which is coming to both Wii U and 3DS. Those of you already familiar with Seavor's work will know he likes a good laugh - and the...
News CIRCLE Entertainment Highlights Early Sales Figures and Success for Mercenaries Saga 2
Encouraging early results
Mercenaries Saga 2: Order of the Silver Eagle is just one of various CIRCLE Entertainment releases on the 3DS this year, but the relatively recent arrival certainly has some appeal. Visually it draws comparisons to Final Fantasy T
Feature The Biggest 3DS eShop Games of 2015 - Summer Edition
Gaming on the go
It's the Summer - though it's overcast and raining outside this writer's window at the time of writing - and we've published articles pointing out some of the biggest and best games coming to the Wii U, Wii U eShop and the Nintendo 3DS. Now, after an intolerab
Review I Love My Dogs (3DS eShop)
A Man's Bog-Standard Friend
Pet simulators have certainly come a long way since the days of Tamagotchi. Where once we raised an LCD dinosaur on a screen the size of a digital watch, now we're treated to 3D renditions of cute, fluffy puppies and kittens, so realistically rendered you half expect them to leap from the screen and naively urinate on...
Nintendo Download 30th July (Europe)
Badland, Legend of Kay, Flick Golf, Hello Kitty themes (?!) and more
Another week begins with the Nintendo Download Update details in Europe. This week brings a couple much anticipated Wii U releases, a smartphone smash hit, more welcome puzzles and various discount options. Let's get to the details. Wii U eShop: BADLAND: Game of the Year Edition...
Review Epic Word Search Collection (3DS eShop)
Searching for Simpsons, Sausages, Slayer and Skateboarding
The word "epic" sure gets thrown around a lot these days. The vast cosmos is epic, the unfathomable depths of the ocean are epic, but so is this sandwich I just ate, you guys! SO EPIC! Perhaps some of the meaning has been lost, but even the crankiest purists would have to admit that Epic...
Review Fantasy Pirates (3DS eShop)
Sail away, sail away, sail away
Let's welcome Fantasy Pirates to the Nintendo eShop – yet another pick-up-and-play, bite-sized title from EnjoyUp Games. Arguably best known for 99Seconds and 99Bullets, EnjoyUp Games is slowly gaining a reputation as a go-to company for budget titles on the Nintendo 3DS. Its latest title to appear on the shores of...
Review 3D Streets of Rage 2 (3DS eShop)
Grand Upper
There was a time when playground arguments didn't revolve around resolutions, framerates or what PewDiePie's favourite toast topping is. In the early '90s it was simple; which is the best: Final Fight or Streets of Rage? Final Fight was, for a time, exclusive to Nintendo and jealous Mega Drive owners glared with envy at their smug...
Nintendo Download 23rd July (North America)
Binding of Isaac Rebirth! 3D Streets of Rage 2! Legend of Kay! Much more!
It's Nintendo Download Update time once again, and we have a fairly packed week in North America. We have a relatively controversial and long-awaited arrival on Wii U and New Nintendo 3DS, cross platform RPG goodness and some quirky efforts on the home console, while a budget...
Video Watch Sonic Repeatedly Rescue Tails In 3D Sonic The Hedgehog 2's Credits Sequence
To be this good takes ages
3D Sonic the Hedgehog 2 recently landed on the 3DS eShop in Japan. This version of the game sports all the features of the Mega Drive / Genesis original, including two player support. In cooperative play, player two gets an invincible Tails and two players can race on a split screen in Match Play mode. Of course the main...
Inking out a deal
Nintendo's been pro-active during this generation to support and promote game development from smaller studios around the world, helping the eShop to be a vibrant platform on both Wii U and 3DS. Another project is now set to get underway, and this time it'll be utilising development talent in Singapore to bring 3DS eShop games to a...
News Ubisoft Launches Its eShop Summer Sale in North America
Lots of tempting discounts
It's fairly standard for Ubisoft to run a couple of major sale periods on various download stores throughout the year, and the eShop platforms are no different. Some of the content may have been around for a good while, but that doesn't mean there aren't some gems to consider picking up. The latest sale is underway in...
Nintendo Download 23rd July (Europe)
Yoshi! Streets of Rage 2 3D! Exciting discounts! More!
It's Monday, once again, and we have the Nintendo Download Update details for Europe to get the week started. This batch brings a promising mix of old and new on the Wii U, while a classic SEGA beat 'em up arrives in 3D form on Nintendo's portable along with a few other tempting options. Let's...
News Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures 2 is Confirmed, and Looks Set for Nintendo Systems
More poop jokes inbound
The Angry Video Game Nerd (AVGN) is still one of the biggest YouTube names out there in the minds of plenty of gamers, which was proven with the release of Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures across various platforms. That included Wii U and 3DS versions, and now that a sequel has been announced it looks like Nintendo fans will...
News Atlus Leads the Way With eShop Discounts in North American Nintendo Download Update
A few 3DS HOME Themes and demos, too
Our standard North American Nintendo Download Update this week was shorter than normal, as a result of Nintendo of America postponing the issuing of its formal press release. We were advised of the delay, and it was clearly to accommodate Satoru Iwata's funeral. The region has now issued the full details, and...
Nintendo Download 16th July (North America)
Tiny Galaxy, airport management, Blaster Master, G.G Series and more
Following the passing of Satoru Iwata earlier this week Nintendo isn't actively issuing press releases at the time of writing; as a result the following is based upon checking the eShop stores. We have a promising Nindie effort on Wii U, a couple of quirky efforts on 3DS, more G.G...
Nintendo Download 16th July (Europe)
Mario & Luigi, Capcom classics, PokéPark and more
Due to the passing of Satoru Iwata earlier this week the information for the European Nintendo Download Update wasn't issued without request. The details are available now, and we have some particularly promising retro and familiar releases along with a music streaming service on Wii U, while the...
News Dragon Fantasy: The Volumes of Westeria is the Next Wii U and 3DS Cross-Buy Release
Out next week in North America
Choice Provisions - which we feel obliged to point out was formerly known as Gaijin Games - has confirmed that its next title will also be the latest cross-buy offering between Wii U and 3DS. The company is publishing Dragon Fantasy: The Volumes of Westeria, a quirky RPG originally developed by Muteki Corp. It's a...
Digital download block size also revealed
Nintendo has officially begun promoting its upcoming 3DS release, Animal Crossing: Happy Home Designer, due out in Japan at the end of July. The two ad spot commercials highlight the seemingly endless amount of design possibilities featured within the title. In addition to this, the Happy Home Designer...
Video 3D Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Trailer Confirms Local Co-Op Support
More M2 magic
The blue blur returns to the Japanese 3DS eShop next week in M2’s 3D revival of the classic 1992 SEGA title, Sonic the Hedgehog 2. To celebrate the special occasion, SEGA has released a trailer of 3D Sonic the Hedgehog 2 on its new microsite. If this alone wasn't already enough, the trailer & microsite also reveal the title will...
Feature The Biggest 3DS Retail Games of 2015 - Summer Edition
A lot is coming out in 2016, too...
The Summer months are here, which gives us an opportunity to take reveals from E3 and beyond to contemplate what big hitters are coming over the rest of the year. We split the recent Wii U lists into retail and eShop sections, and we're doing the same here, starting off with retail games. Though we've picked out...
News 3D Streets Of Rage 2 Hits North America & Europe July 23
A slight delay
Last week the North American 3DS eShop revealed 3D Streets of Rage 2 would arrive on 16th July for $5.99. A week later, and SEGA has informed fans via Twitter that there has been a slight delay, with the second entry in the Streets of Rage series now scheduled to release globally on 23rd July. [
Review Glory of Generals: The Pacific (3DS eShop)
War never changes
Whether fighting in fantasy worlds or gritty reality, 3DS-owning strategists have had a steady stream of wargames to keep them busy since the system's launch. CIRCLE Entertainment has been responsible for a particularly prolific eShop invasion, with World Conqueror 3D, European Conqueror 3D and Glory of Generals all joining the...
Nintendo Download 9th July (North America)
Mario Tennis, Epic Indie Sale, loads of Wii U downloads and more
It's that time again, North American gamers, for the Nintendo Download Update line-up to tempt you ahead of the weekend. It's a busy line-up this week with a glut of varied releases on the Wii U eShop, the arrival of a classic Mario sports game and the rather impressive 'Epic Indie...
Review Japanese Rail Sim 3D Journey in Suburbs #1 (3DS eShop)
Yes, that's actually the title
Every once in a while you play one of those games where it just makes you ask, "Why?" This isn't necessarily because the game is bad, as such, but occasionally one wonders what compelled the developer to make a game so decidedly perplexing. Japanese Rail Sim 3D Journey in Suburbs #1 is one of those games. While it more...
News The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth Launches on the New 3DS and Wii U on 23rd July in North America
The countdown begins...
The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth is a much anticipated release on multiple levels for Nintendo gamers. Not only will this be the definitive release of a cult classic Indie game, but it also marks the first time the game will be appearing in any form on Nintendo platforms. After the initial release of the game was famously...
News Early Adopters of Xeodrifter Actually May Not Receive a Free Copy of the Wii U Port
Both versions will still support cross buy, but only after the Wii U launch
Shortly after the announcement that Xeodrifter would be receiving a Wii U port, Renegade Kid's Jools Watsham confirmed that the game would feature cross-buy and that those who've bought the game already on their 3DS would be receiving a free download code for the Wii U...
Nintendo Download 9th July (Europe)
Mega Man goodness, Never Alone, Bike Rider DX2, 'Epic Indie Sale' and more
Another week begins, and as per our custom in Europe that means we can get warmed up with news of the download treats on the way later this week. We have a few new Nindie efforts on Wii U and 3DS, Mega Man RPG goodness, and also some tempting discounts in the Wii U eShop...
News 3D Out Run, Thunder Blade And Fantasy Zone I & II Now Available On The eShop In Australia
Finally!
In exciting news, 3D Out Run, 3D Thunder Blade, 3D Fantasy Zone and its sequel have now been made available on the Australian 3DS eShop for $6.50 each. Out Run and the original Fantasy Zone were originally expected to launch alongside the wider PAL releases earlier thi
"Development of Virtual Console titles require detailed manual work"
The Virtual Console promised so much when it launched alongside the original Wii all those years ago. Indeed, on that particular console it became something of a goldmine of amazing retro titles, and when Nintendo announced that the service would carry over to the Wii U, many...
Nintendo Download 2nd July (North America)
Ocarina of Time, Roving Rogue, Samurai Warriors, discounts and more
It's that time again, North American gamers, for a look over this week's Nintendo Download Update goodies. One of the greatest games of all time is up for grabs, while there's a mix of Nindie and major third-party options through the Wii U and 3DS eShop stores. Throw in a load of...
News Bike Rider DX2: Galaxy Is Finally Pedalling To The European 3DS eShop This Month
Better late than never
Japanese developer Spicysoft has revealed that Bike Rider DX2: Galaxy will launch on the European 3DS eShop on July 9th - more than a year after it hit North America. The game is even older in its native Japan, having originally launched in December 2013. Still, better late than not at all, right? Let's hope we don't have to...
News 3D Streets Of Rage 2 Arrives In North America July 16
Take to the streets!
Widely regarded as one of the best side-scrolling fighters ever created, the 1992 hit – Streets of Rage 2 – is set to be released locally in both North America and Europe as a part of the SEGA 3D Classics line this July. A new listing on the North American 3DS eShop has now revealed 3D Streets of Rage 2 will be arriving in...
Review Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures (3DS eShop)
Nerd in My Pocket
As the Angry Video Game Nerd might tell you, the context of a system can matter a great deal toward the quality of the game. A title that isn't so bad on one console can be a putrid pukefest on another. Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures, which hit Nintendo first on the Wii U, has shifted to the portable 3DS. So what can you expect?...
Review My Zoo Vet Practice 3D (3DS eShop)
My Zoophobia 3D
It's fair to say that we get our fair share of games to review over here at Nintendo Life that don't necessarily appeal to our core audience of readers. It's just as fair to say that Treva Entertainment's clumsily named My Zoo Vet Practice 3D certainly falls into that category, definitely having a definitive (if somewhat niche)...
June2015
Reaction The Concept of eShop 'Early Access' is Both Exciting and Slightly Terrifying
Tom Whitehead thinks it would be the best of times, and the worst
Nintendo is rapidly disproving the suggestion that it's behind-the-curve or old fashioned in the download gaming space. Aspects of the company's decision-making remain cautious, but the Wii U and 3DS eShop stores have not only brought Nintendo up to speed with a number of modern...
News Pokémon Shuffle is Heading to Android and iOS, to the Surprise of No-One
Micro-transactions are Super Effective!
Pokémon Shuffle remains a trailblazer on the 3DS, a free-to-play match-three title on the portable reliant upon micro-transactions to actually return the development investment. It's been downloaded about 4.5 million times, though we don't know whether it's actually made Nintendo any notable profit. If...
News Nintendo Is "Exploring" The Idea Of Early Access Games On Its Consoles
"There could be some benefits there"
Nintendo of America's third-party relations and indie development boss Damon Baker has revealed that the company is currently pondering the idea of "Early Access" games on its consoles. Speaking to Polygon, Baker said: We don't have anything to announce, but I can say that we're certainly exploring options and...
Matters Of Import 3D Gunstar Heroes Is Hyperactive Run And Gun Action At Its Finest
Another classic to treasure on your 3DS console
Gunstar Heroes charged onto the Sega Mega Drive in 1993, significantly marking the début of quirky developer Treasure, having been formed from ex-Konami staff wanting to go it their own way. Often seen floating near to the top of many 'best game ever' lists, Gunstar Heroes is a bona-fide classic of...
Nintendo Download 2nd July (Europe)
Going rogue, Ocarina of Time, Fire Emblem, Advance Wars and much more
Another week begins, and as usual we have the Nintendo Download Update for Europe to get us started. This week seems to have a pretty strong line-up, with three excellent retro experiences accompanying a retro-style Nindie release on the Wii U. A delayed retail title also lands on...
News Mercenaries Saga 2 Is The Closest You'll Get To A New Final Fantasy Tactics On 3DS
Launches this week in North America
Final Fantasy Tactics fans should be interested to know that CIRCLE Entertainment is publishing Rideon Japan's Mercenaries Saga 2: Order Of The Silver Eagle on the North American 3DS eShop. The game - which originally launched on smartphones - looks almost identical to Square Enix's legendary turn-based strategy...
News There Are Now Over 600 DSiWare Games And Apps
Not dead yet
The 3DS may be entering its twilight years but that doesn't mean that DSiWare - the downloadable software service which launched with the 3DS console's forerunner, the DSi - is completely dead. In fact, thanks to the large helping of DSiWare games in this week's Download Update, there are now 604 games and apps available for DSiWare...
News Eight SEGA 3D Classics Get Discounts in North America
50% off on some beauties
Earlier today the Nintendo Download Update details for North America promised discounts of SEGA 3D Classics, but only specified two of the games that are in the promotion - now the official eShop offers website has confirmed eight of the series that are available at half price. It's not the full range, and more recent...
Nintendo Download 25th June (North America)
Star Fox and Mario & Luigi DS games! Art Academy! Shiftlings! More!
It's Nintendo Download Update day, and as usual we now have the North American details. It's a busy line-up with three interesting Wii U eShop titles, two popular franchises on the Virtual Console, some discounts and another hefty batch of DSiWare. Yep... DSiWare. So, let's get to...
Review Comic Workshop 2 (3DS eShop)
Back to the drawing board
With its built-in touchscreen and dual display, it's no surprise that the Nintendo 3DS is host to a plethora of applications and games based around drawing and creating. Comic Workshop, an application focused on the premise of creating pages for manga comics, is just one example from the selection of well-received products...
News 3D Gunstar Heroes Brings New Modes And Local Co-Op To 3DS
Launches this week in Japan
This week 3D Gunstar Heroes hits the 3DS eShop in Japan, and it's bringing with it a host of new features. In addition to being in stereoscopic 3D and offering the usual range of screen filters, the game will also include a brand-new "All Spec" mode which grants immediate access to all 14 weapons available in the game...
News Don't Hold Your Breath, But Axiom Verge Is "Probably" Coming To Wii U Next Year
Developer Tom Happ gives us a solid "maybe"
Axiom Verge is one of the best Metroid-style games we've seen in a long time, and we already know that Nintendo is super-keen to get the game onto its consoles. It would appear that developer Tom Happ is actively working towards that goal, as he has told Destructoi
News There Will Only Be One Physical Copy Of Rusty Pup In The Entire Universe
You'll have to solve the title-screen codex conundrum to win it
UK studio Gory Detail has revealed during its first devlog that it will be producing just one physical copy of its forthcoming Wii U and 3DS adventure title The Unlikely Legend of Rusty Pup. The copy - hand-made by Gory Detail's Chris Seavor, the man behind Conker's Bad Fur Day - will...
Exclusive First Gory Detail Devlog Shows Off More Of The Gorgeous-Looking Rusty Pup
Mind the gap
You may recall that a while back we lifted the lid on Gory Detail's new adventure title The Unlikely Legend of Rusty Pup, which is coming to the Wii U and 3DS eShops in the not-too-distant future. The work of former Rare staffers Chris "Conker" Seavor and Shawn Pile, Rusty Pup is shaping up to be a truly sumptuous 2D brain-teaser with...
Nintendo Download 25th June (Europe)
Yoshi! Kirby! Art Academy! Samurai Warriors! More!
It's the start of a normal week in the world of the big N, so naturally it kicks off with the Nintendo Download Update details in Europe. This week brings three promising and relatively high profile retail releases, two diverse offerings on the Wii U eShop along with some retro goodies, some...
News Take More Risks With Your eShop Purchases, Pleads Nintendo's Damon Baker
"Nintendo fans and consumers...gravitate towards nostalgia"
Nintendo's Damon Baker has lamented the fact that fans don't seem to be leaving their comfort zones when it comes to buying eShop games. The senior manager of marketing in Nintendo of America's licensing department has been speaking to Gamasutra about indie games on Nintendo systems, and...
Interview Image & Form Discusses SteamWorld Heist And Why It'll Be on 3DS First
"I'm proud to say it's a matter of loyalty"
Image & Form is an established, experience game development studio and publisher, yet it was SteamWorld Dig on the 3DS that gave the company a notable break and turnaround in fortunes. After causing a stir on 3DS it was eventually ported to Wii U and most platforms, so the announcement of follow-up -...
Nintendo Download 18th June (North America)
Classic Fire Emblem! Weird Smash 3DS controller thing! Discounts! More!
Some things don't even change in E3 week, whether it be the underwear of those of us watching everything unfold over three days or the arrival of the Nintendo Download Update. This week's North American update has a treat for Fire Emblem fans, some new eShop-only releases,...
Video Blow Off Some Steam With This New SteamWorld Heist Trailer
Coming Fall 2015
If you were a fan of Image & Form’s SteamWorld Dig, then this trailer of its upcoming Wii U and 3DS release on the eShop, SteamWorld Heist, may be of interest. Coming fall 2015, SteamWorld Heist promises plenty of tactical stand-offs with the opportunity to punch, shoot and generally just beat-up on robots. Players will have...
News Pokémon Shuffle Receives Yet Another Code for More Puzzling Goodness
Everyday I'm shuffling
Nintendo has released the third code for its free-to-play puzzler Pokémon Shuffle, via its Pokémon Daisuki Club in Japan. This latest code entitles you - regardless of where you are in the game - to three items that give you an additional five moves. This can seriously help you catch any particularly tricky monster or help...
Nintendo Download 18th June (Europe)
Harvest Moon, Xeodrifter, Comic Workshop 2 and more
Surprisingly, and later than normal, we now have this week's Nintendo Download Update details for Europe. This week's new offerings are all on the 3DS, with a retail title and two high quality eShop options, though the official press release doesn't mention EarthBound Beginnings, which is an option...
News Nintendo Apologises for eShop Issues Caused by High Super Smash Bros. Traffic, Urges Patience
The DLC will be waiting for you later on
Nintendo knew what would happen when Masahiro Sakurai announced the immediate release of a substantial batch of Super Smash Bros. DLC, with the creative lead of the franchise stating in the broadcast that we should expect busy servers when trying to purchase the
News Comic Workshop 2 Releases Next Week in NA and EU
Discounted drawing for owners of the original
Creative applications are no stranger to the Nintendo 3DS, but with its built-in touchscreen and ability to export images via SD card, this should come as no surprise. Recognizing and taking advantage of the portable's potential, Collavier Corporation has already released both Comic Workshop and Painting...
News The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth Pricing and Features Outlined by Nicalis
New 3DS misses out on multiplayer
The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth was a slightly surprising announcement for Wii U and New Nintendo 3DS earlier this year, for multiple reasons; it's a game that was previously rejected by Nintendo due to its themes and content, and it'll also likely be the first eShop title exclusive to the New models of the portable...
News Mighty No. 9 Features on Wii U and 3DS Versions are Outlined
So long, amiibo dreams
Mighty No. 9 is just a few months away, a project treated by many as a spiritual successor to Mega Man. Though we don't yet have a final date for the 3DS port, it's heading to Wii U in September on the eShop and as a physical retail release. A development update has now been posted outlining features for each platform, and...
Nintendo Download 11th June (North America)
LEGO Jurassic Park x2, more Harvest Moon, Dr. Mario and much more
It's the final North American Nintendo Download Update before the E3 shenanigans in LA, and there's a diverse range of options. We have the first GBA Harvest Moon, two versions of LEGO Jurassic World, the return of Dr. Mario, some quirky eShop offerings and four DSiWare games. Let's...
Review Dr. Mario: Miracle Cure (3DS eShop)
The cure for boredom
Nintendo seems to have been following a pattern with Dr. Mario in recent years. First, it releases a new title in the series for its current console which adds a new gameplay mechanic. Then, sometime later, it releases a new handheld entry, which plays it a bit more safe and doesn't really do anything new. The latest game, Dr...
News Image & Form Tackles SteamWorld Heist E3 Plans, Pricing and Development Progress in Q & A
Not digging too deep, though
With SteamWorld Heist building up, well, steam for its release later this year, the studio's latest Q & A provides some further update on development progress, plans for E3 and planned pricing. As for E3, company CEO Brjann Sigurgeirsson will be in LA to show off the game to the media, including your humble Nintendo...
Reminder Time's Running Out to Grab the Humble Nindie Bundle
It ends at 11am Pacific / 2pm Eastern on 9th June
The Humble Nindie Bundle has been an intriguing development for the Wii U and 3DS eShop; though limited to the Americas, it has caused a notable impact as the first Humble Bundle to support console platforms. It was a pretty bold move by both Nintendo of America and Humble itself, and allows gamers...
News Capcom Reveals E3 Plans and Mega Man Legacy Collection for 3DS
Wii U unfortunately misses out on HD version
Capcom evidently hasn't completely forgotten about its iconic mascot and has announced Mega Man Legacy Collection, which will spruce up the first six NES titles with new features. It's confirmed to be on the way to the 3DS eShop in the Winter for $14.99, though the Wii U misses out on the Summer arrival...
