3DS - News
January2016
News Dragon Quest VII Set for a Summer Release in North America
News to warm you up
As eager watchers of the November Nintendo Direct last year will recall, Nintendo confirmed that both Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past and Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King are coming to the West in 2016. At that time it was confirmed that VII would come first with VIII to follow later in the year,...
Video Square Enix Pitches a Famous Legacy in Final Fantasy Explorers Trailer
An early big hit for 2016?
Final Fantasy Explorers isn't far away from its Western release on 3DS, bringing its brand of co-op and combat to the portable. Square Enix has previously celebrated its key IP with some music rhythm experiences on 3DS, though this is perhaps closer to the kind of gameplay that series fans expect. Part of the title's...
News Dragon Ball: Project Fusion is Another RPG Heading for the 3DS in Japan
Bandai Namco keeps busy
Bandai Namco isn't shy of work, churning out a lot of titles for its own franchises and in partnerships with other companies. Its diverse offerings keep coming, as a 3DS RPG called Dragon Ball: Project Fusion is confirmed for release in Japan in 2016. It's a huge franchise, and the core detail of a 'fusion between Goku and...
News The 3DS Virtual Console Pokémon Titles Won't Support Restore Points
Backup saves also off the cards
The Pokémon titles that started it all are coming to the 3DS Virtual Console soon, and fans are understandably excited about the prospect. That excitement may be tempered somewhat by fresh reports relating to how the games use - or, in this case, don't use - the unique features of the Virtual Console platform. Our...
Video Koei Tecmo Shares More Hyrule Warriors Legends Footage, and Makes Us Wish There Was Co-Op
You can 'sort-of' race side-by-side, though
Hyrule Warriors Legends undoubtedly pushes the 3DS hardware's capabilities, as is clear from its decent performance on New 3DS but chugging framerate on older models. It should serve as no surprise, then, that it's a single player experience on the portable; considering the performance drop on Wii U with...
News 3DS System Version 10.4.0-29 is Now Available for Download
This thing can never be too stable
A week ago, the Wii U received the first software update it had seen in awhile, and - you guessed it - it was another stability patch. For the majority of you, this changed absolutely nothing about the Wii U experience, but it sure feels good to know that the system is as stable as it gets. In light of this, some...
Video Hyrule Warriors Legends Footage Shows a Stark Difference in Old and New 3DS Performance
The Legend of Lag
We're pretty keen to get our hands on Hyrule Warriors Legends, as the prospect of playing through the Wii U title with extra content and on the go is rather appealing. Yet it's a release that's concerning some, particularly those with older models; as it's a port of a Wii U title it's only fair to assume that it'd be better suited...
Reaction Nintendo Titles Miss the UK Top 40 Once Again
For the third week in a row
Every week we check the UK chart results, and typically Nintendo has a few titles scrapping away - at the very least - in the bottom half of the top 40. Yet this is now the third consecutive week where not a single Wii U or 3DS exclusive has made it into the all-format top 40. What's going on? It's worth starting out...
Random Take a Look at These Unused Alternate Sonic Boom Logos
Dudes vs. Evil?
The Sonic Boom franchise is definitely one that's divided opinions. While it may be that the TV show is fairly well liked, the games left something to be desired. Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice is still set to release sometime this year, opting to follow in the footsteps of the slightly better received portable entry in this sub-series...
Nintendo Life Weekly Twilight Princess HD amiibo Dungeon, Pokémon Yellow 2DS
Model business
Another week, another look back and round-up in the form of a video. If you've been caught up in the tide of nonsense that many are currently calling January, you may well have missed some important Nintendo news. Thankfully, we've got the solution! This week we look at the rumour surrounding a new dungeon in The Legend of Zelda:...
Video See What Pops Does While You're Away in Pokémon Super Mystery Dungeon
Begone, foul fantasy!
For those of you that have played Pokémon Super Mystery Dungeon, you may remember Pops the Carracosta. This Pokémon acts as the parent of your partner in the game, and rebukes the two of them on occasion as they get into mischief. Pops is arguably one of the more memorable characters in this roguelike adventure, and evidently...
Video Hyrule Warriors Legends Demonstration Shows Off Toon Link, Tetra and 'My Fairy' Mode
Also provides a look at the Wind Waker Adventure Mode map
Hyrule Warriors Legends isn't far away, and with its release imminent in Japan Koei Tecmo has been publishing regular showcase videos looking at various features in the game. The latest has gone live, and once again looks at content and characters that are new to the 3DS entry. First of all...
News North America Gets a Project X Zone 2 Demo on 26th January
A taste of what's to come
It's somewhat hard to believe, but Project X Zone 2 is just about a month away from releasing here in the west. The sequel to the three company mega mashup SRPG extravaganza that was Project X Zone aims to deliver an even bigger experience, with more characters and cameos from the companies' rich histories. While it may be...
Video The Latest Monster Hunter Stories Trailer Makes Importing Even More Tempting
Still coming this year in Japan
Monster Hunter Stories strikes us as a particularly interesting entry in the series. For over a decade the franchise has largely stuck to tried-and-tested approaches, but this is one of a fresh batch of titles (others being arcades and smart device apps) switching up the visual style and gameplay. An RPG adventure...
News Bravely Second: End Layer Demo Arrives in Europe on 11th February
A "prelude to the adventure"
Bravely Default was a popular arrival when it was localised in Europe and North America, and also had a demo that served as a prelude to the main game. With Bravely Second: End Layer approaching in Europe the same strategy is being revisited. With the game due on 26th February, including a gorgeous Collector's Edition
News Skylanders Superchargers Nintendo Combo Packs Are Exclusive To Smyths Toys In The UK
£24.99 a pop
Donkey Kong and Bowser were surprise additions to the Skylanders Superchargers line-up, and have recently been re-launched independently from the starter packs they were originally bundled in, making it easier than ever for amiibo collectors to get their hands on them. The packs are now available in the UK, and are exclusive to Smyths...
Poll Are You Optimistic About Nintendo's 2016?
It's a big year for the company
With 2016 now well underway many thoughts are on what will be a vital 12 months for Nintendo. In this year alone it'll reveal - and potentially release - its next generation of gaming hardware with the NX, it'll launch its first smart device apps and the My Nintendo / Nintendo Account services. Throw in the annual...
News Satoru Iwata to Receive Posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award at D.I.C.E.
Splatoon and Super Mario Maker among award nominees
With a summit in the days before, details have now been issued for the 19th D.I.C.E. Awards on 18th February; this is a prestigious annual event hosted by The Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences. Nintendo picked up a few awards in late 2015 for key releases such as Splatoon and Super Mario...
News Monster Hunter X (Cross) and New 3DS Continue to Lead the Way in Japan
Splatoon, Super Mario Maker and Wii U also continue decent momentum
The festive period certainly brought cheer for Nintendo in its homeland, as the New 3DS and Wii U enjoyed impressive sales while their key releases led the software charts. The latest Media Create Japanese charts show some understandable drops as January bites, yet the results are...
News Story of Seasons Sequel is Coming Soon to 3DS in Japan
What a wonderful world
While the Harvest Moon franchise has had its ups and downs, Story of Seasons - which is a re-branded HM game, let's not forget - returned to the core style of the IP's beginnings. Add in some carefully thought out mechanics and a dose of realism and you have a 3DS title with some staunch fans; we rather liked it in our review,...
News Lionel City Builder 3D: Rise of the Rails Releases This Thursday in North America
Pulling into station
There are some strategy games that don't focus on swords or fighting, but take a slightly more realistic approach by placing players in a setting that's entirely plausible in the current day. For PC gamers, the 'Tycoon' games did this by placing players in control of a fictional amusement park or zoo or something to that effect...
Digitally remastered movies! Special Edition cards! Merchandise!
It promises to be a great year for Pokémon fans, as 20th Anniversary celebrations are set to be a highlight over the course of many months. Various hardware bundles and the anniversary logo have been revealed, and now The Pokémon Company has released a video highlighting some more...
Commemorative anniversary logo also released
It's a big year for Pokémon as the franchise gears up to celebrate its 20th Anniversary. With that in mind Nintendo has now lifted the lid on some key releases that are on the way to the West, which should certainly please fans. Starting with Europe, it'll receive three variations of 2DS bundles, one...
Video Extended Hyrule Warriors Legends Showcase Includes a Look at Linkle's Campaign
Wake up, grab golden compass, kill hundreds of goons
Hyrule Warriors Legends isn't far away, which is big news for fans of the Wii U title that fancy some extra content and combat on the go. Koei Tecmo's currently in the process of promoting the title heavily for its upcoming Japanese release, too, which gives us all an early look at how it's...
News Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games Hits 3DS in North America on 18th March
Wii U version not on the podium
We recently shared a list of exciting Wii U and 3DS games to play in the first quarter of 2016, which was admittedly packed with portable titles. If you like cross-IP sport games then there's now another one to consider - Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games is coming to North America on 18th March. Well,...
Reminder Upcoming Extended Nintendo Network Maintenance Could Disrupt Online Play
Find something other than Splatoon this evening
As some of you no doubt recall Nintendo recently lined up another extended session of network maintenance; though the timing and circumstances of the last work of this nature gave hope of a related Direct or special event, so far nothing has been announced. The maintenance is definite, though, so it's...
News Ichiro Hazama Would Like to Keep Making More Theatrhythm Games
Where should they go next?
The Theatrhythm series of games for Square Enix is an interesting spin-off that holds a lot of potential. Over its long run, Square has produced countless memorable soundtracks to accompany its games, and somebody finally got the bright idea to make a rhythm game focused entirely on this music. While the two that have...
Nintendo Life Weekly New 2016 Sonic Game Hinted, NX Release Predictions and More
Gotta delete fast
Sonic the Hedgehog has been through a lot, as no doubt you have this week and so after a short wintry hiatus Nintendo Life Weekly is back once again to take you through all the biggest parts of the past seven days. This week we look at Sonic soundtrack providers Crush 40 potentially leaking information pertaining to a new Sonic...
Random Check Out the Official Mega Man Headphones
Rocking out has a whole new meaning
A little over a month from now, Mega Man Legacy Collection will be arriving on the 3DS; bringing all six original Mega Man games to the platform in a remastered bundle, with some extra features thrown in for good measure. While it may seem a bit redundant given how all six are already available to be purchased...
News Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam is Now Available to Pre-Load in North America
Be ready to play it at midnight
In just a couple weeks, Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam will finally launch in North America. The latest entry in the Mario & Luigi series of games, this one is notable for mashing up with the Paper Mario series for the ultimate portable Mario RPG experience. Though it may be yesterday's news in Europe, it's...
Feature Exciting Wii U and 3DS Games to Play in the First Quarter of 2016
Enough to keep us busy...
The start of any year can be rather quiet in terms of game releases. Plenty of major publishers save blockbusters for the final third of the year, while mid-late Spring can also be a rather busy period for releases. Nintendo, courtesy of some delays or strategies on its part and from third-parties, actually has quite a lot...
A downsized download
Originally released on PC back in 2011, Terraria could be described as a 2D sidescrolling Minecraft with graphics reminiscent of 16-bit games. Over the years it received many updates and eventually started getting ported to many other systems. Now it's finally Nintendo's turn to get the game, but does it still hold up or did too...
News Bravely Second: End Layer Deluxe Collector's Edition Pre-Orders Open in the UK
Soundtrack CD! Deluxe artbook! Figurine!
There are some handsome special editions on the way with a few key upcoming releases, and the Bravely Second: End Layer Deluxe Collector's Edition is among the best. Confirmed for the European release on 26th February, it includes the following. Bravely Second: End Layer game A Deluxe Artbook (250+...
News Check Out Plenty of Hyrule Warriors Legends Footage, Limited Edition Pre-Orders Open in the UK
GAME has dibs once again
Hyrule Warriors Legends is one of a glut of new arrivals in the first few months of 2016, giving 3DS owners a chance to jump into the popular Wii U title. Legends includes all of the DLC from the home console version, in addition to new characters and Linkle story content. It's out in the West on 25th March, though its...
Editorial Let's Make 2016 a Year of Nintendo Optimism
Tom Whitehead wants to see smiles on faces
Isn't it great when a new year rolls around? We can just dust off our hands, shrug and march forward with a skip in our step and smiles on our faces. We can - oh yes, we can. As 2015 drew to a close I had a Skype call with the Triforce of Nintendo Life Directors, my bosses that I try and boss around when /...
News Zelda: Link Between Worlds Figma Link Is Here, And The Desire Is Real
Get ready to throw money at your screen
Dat plastic - we simply cannot resist it. Good Smile has just revealed the latest entry to its Figma range, and it's likely to be of great interest to Nintendo fans. Link from The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds is the character in question, and he's been shown off in a wide range of suitably heroic...
News There's a New Yu-Gi-Oh! Game on the Way to 3DS this Summer
Will 'Yu' be picking it up?
With all the negative press surrounding Hideo Kojima's departure from Konami - along with the notion that it's looking to wind down AAA game development - the company could sure use a break. While it'll still be interesting to see what other new games are announced in the near future, Konami just recently announced that a...
News Return to PopoloCrois: A Story of Seasons Fairytale Will Feature Dual Audio
Both English and Japanese tracks will be available
It was just confirmed yesterday that Europe and Australia will be receiving Return to PopoloCrois: A Story of Seasons Fairytale sometime early this year. Many were no doubt delighted to hear this news as the game seems to be pretty good, so far. While there may not be any so
Analysis Assessing Why NX Needs to Take Over From Both the Wii U and 3DS
And why the recent share price drop is illogical
Stock markets and investing in shares can be a strange affair. Though business acumen and experience can go a long way, aspects of the process can resemble a casino; even just taking Nintendo as an example, the company's share prices soared in March 2015 when the partnership with DeNA and the...
Video Here's What Shovel Knight's New amiibo-Based Co-Op Mode Looks Like
Better together
Those lovely Shovel Knight amiibo are finally finding their way into the hands of gamers the world over, and that means we can show you what the co-op multiplayer mode (unlocked by the aforementioned lump of plastic) looks like in the main game. As you can see in the video below, the gameplay is changed quite dramatically when two...
News New 3DS and Monster Hunter Continue to Lead in Japanese Charts
Wii U dips below PS4 but maintains strong sales
2016 is now well underway, with all of the crushing realities of the post-festive period - wider waistlines, slimmer bank balances and plenty of regret. In any case, Nintendo is starting the year in Japan with a collective smile, as the company continues to perform well in the busy shopping season...
News Japanese Games Market Falls To Lowest Point In 26 Years, But Full Picture Remains Elusive
Down 13 percent year-on-year, but digital data isn't included
According to data supplied by Famitsu, the Japanese games market has hit its lowest point since 1989. In 2015, games in Japan generated ¥321bn - a 13 percent decline on 2014's total of ¥368.55bn. Sales of games dropped 16 percent to ¥191bn, while games hardware was down to to ¥130bn...
News Marvelous Is Bringing Return To PopoloCrois To European 3DS Consoles This Year
And Australian ones, too
Marvelous has announced that Return to PopoloCrois: A Story of Seasons Fairytale is coming to Europe and Australia early this year. The 3DS game - which is a combination of farming and role-playing - has already been confirmed for a North American release via XSEED. Marvelous hasn't given a solid release date as yet, but...
News Japanese Analyst Claims NX Could Launch As Early As October, Will Eat Into Wii U And 3DS Sales
"Concept" announcement between March and May, official unveiling in June
Comments from Nomura Securities analyst Junko Yamamura have lent additional weight to existing claims that Nintendo is looking to launch its new NX console this year. Yamamura says that the console's "concept" -
Talking Point Nintendo Can Exploit Its Rich History With More Remasters
Easy money
The current generation of home console hardware has had an interesting challenge in defining itself as 'next gen'. In the era of Wii, PS3 and Xbox 360 Nintendo brought motion controls to the mainstream while its contemporaries placed their focus on HD graphics and a drastic progression in online multiplayer gaming. In this current...
News Extended Nintendo Network Maintenance on the Way
Almost exactly two months after the last Direct...
Nintendo completed some Nintendo Network maintenance in brief windows during the Holiday season, along with some minor downtime, resulting in a fairly stable period overall. The latest announced maintenance has, however, caught our attention. The timing and length of the planned maintenance is...
News Check Out The Upcoming Star Fox Collaboration in Monster Hunter X (Cross)
Makes us want the game more
Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate had some fun downloadable crossover events and unlockable outfits; it was possible to earn items for your hunter and Palico that paid tribute to franchises such as Street Fighter, Sonic the Hedgehog and more. Nintendo's franchises also featured, with notable examples being The Legend of Zelda and...
Feature The Biggest 3DS Games of 2016
Fire Emblem! Hyrule Warriors! Metroid Prime-ish! Old Pokémon! More!
2016 has arrived, and with it comes optimism and potential for an exciting gaming year ahead. Though plenty of eyes are turning to the next generation of Nintendo hardware, of course, we nevertheless have a fairly busy line-up on the way for 3DS, the portable that continues to keep...
News Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam Developers Explain Why Paper Mario Was Included
Somebody had to occupy that Y button
It won't be long now until Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam releases in North America, finally giving gamers there a chance to experience this great RPG. Though it crosses over with the Paper Mario series, this is technically the latest entry in the Mario & Luigi series of RPGs for Nintendo handhelds. Considering...
News The Teaser Site For Fire Emblem Fates Has Just Gone Up in North America
Just a few more weeks to go
As most of you are aware, Fire Emblem Fates is only less than two months away from release at this point. The highly anticipated strategic RPG will be following up on 2013's Fire Emblem: Awakening, leaving it with some very big shoes to fill. Nintendo really seems to be doubling down on it, too, as the main unit, Corrin,...
Feature Five Key Reveals and Releases That Will Define Nintendo's 2016
It's going to be a big year
The New Year has begun, and after a 2015 that was considered reasonable by a number of Nintendo Life readers, the hope is that 2016 can be a blockbuster year for the company. Less 'not bad', and more 'holy moly that was amazing'. The exciting thing is that it could go either way. This is going to be a 12 month period...
Feature Our Staff's Hopes and Dreams for Nintendo's 2016
NX, Legend of Zelda, Mother 3 and more besides
It's now 2016, and hopefully the beginning of an exciting year for Nintendo and its fans. With various big games, products and reveals either dropping out of 2015 or always being planned for this year, we're set for what could be a bumper 12 months. Your humble writer will be looking ahead at what...
December2015
News Nintendo Dominates Festive Sales in Japan as 3DS and Wii U Lead the Way
Japanese 3DS hardware passes 20 million lifetime sales
2015 has been quite a year, and it's fair to say Nintendo has had mixed fortunes. Sales of Wii U and 3DS hardware have been reasonable if not barnstorming, but the company's Kyoto HQ may ring in the New Year with renewed spirits following its end of year sales in Japan. Starting with software,...
Talking Point 2015 - A Peculiar Year of New, Old and Surprising Nintendo Games
Not quite the expected
Reflecting on Nintendo's 2015 isn't a simple task. There has been great sadness and disruption due to the passing of Satoru Iwata, and the company has been in a general holding pattern for large parts of the year. Let's consider the key releases or updates that have fallen back to 2016, in no particular order. Most prominent...
Video Relive The Hype With This Japanese Smash 4 DLC Trailer
Are you out (C)orrin?
Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS & Wii U is a game that keeps on giving, but as we all know all good things come to an end eventually. As most of you are aware, we were presented with newcomer Cloud from the Nintendo Direct in November, and then with Corrin and Bayonetta from December's final Super Smash Bros. Direct...
News There'll Be More Senran Kagura Bursting Onto the Scene in 2016
Will you be tempted to see what the fuss is about?
It's quite an understatement to say that the Senran Kagura series is controversial. While it could be argued that the actual gameplay is pretty solid, taking one look at the box art is enough to see what really gets copies flying off shelves. On one side, there are the people who appreciate it for...
Talking Point The Easily Forgotten Hardware Release of 2015 - New Nintendo 3DS
Reflecting on the lovely but underutilised system
Nintendo released new hardware in 2015. Yes, it really did. It can seem so long ago now, but the New Nintendo 3DS arrived in the West in February, having made its début in Japan and Australia in late 2014. We were rather excited about it here at Nintendo Life, too, landing as it did with both The...
Video Get on the Starting Blocks With Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games Footage
Portable putting
The snappily-titled Mario & Sonic at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games will be an interesting arrival in 2016. The series has evidently been popular to date, but seeing how the latest entry fares in the current generation will be worth following; Mario & Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games was only on Wii U and didn't seem...
Game of the Year Nintendo Life's Reader Awards 2015
These are your winners
It's the season of end of year awards, and now it's time to reveal your winners for the best games on Nintendo hardware in 2015. Thousands of you cast your votes, and now the results are in. You had all of the same categories as in our staff awards, and these are the gongs that mean the most; rather than a team of 20 or so...
Mew will arrive in games old and new
2016 is going to be an exciting year for Pokémon fans as the series gears up to celebrate its 20th Anniversary. Some promising promotions have now been announced for Japan and, naturally, we're hopeful these will also be coming to the West. All of the following are hitting Nintendo's homeland on 27th February,...
Game of the Year Nintendo Life's Staff Awards 2015
A tight battle for top spot
Another year of gaming has passed, so it's time to look back and pick out some of our favourites. 2015 was - it's fair to say - a mixed year for Nintendo; in terms of major game releases there were some undoubted highs, but also a range of disappointing spin-offs and minor releases. On the flipside it felt like a strong...
News Monster Hunter X Has Just Passed 3 Million Units Shipped in Japan
Includes physical copies, download cards, and digital sales
Monster Hunter is a series that has still been trying to find its footing in the west, though Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate demonstrated that it's making large strides towards mainstream acceptance outside of its home region. Nonetheless, Monster Hunter remains a cultural juggernaut in Japan,...
News The Art of Fire Emblem: Awakening Releases in North America in Summer 2016
Another quality art book from Dark Horse
It's no exaggeration to say that Fire Emblem: Awakening was a major turning point for the series, both critically and commercially. Up till that release, Fire Emblem had been suffering from waning popularity and was figuratively on its last legs. Awakening was intended to be the swan song for the series...
Reaction The Nintendo 'NX', and Why We Think a Unified Platform is the Future
Better, together
From now until the start of the new year we're going to be republishing some of what we feel are our best features of 2015. Hopefully this will offer the chance for newer readers to catch up on content they might have missed and allow long-time fans to reacquaint themselves with features they enjoyed the first time around. Today we...
News Another National Streetpass Weekend is Coming Up in North America
A 'weekend' that lasts for a week and a half
With Christmas being mere days away, travel is likely going to be a large part of the lives of countless people as they go to be with family and/or friends for the holidays. Whether you travel by planes, trains, or automobiles, it goes without saying that bringing along the trusty Nintendo 3DS is an...
Video Take a Look Behind the Scenes of Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate
Trivia abounds
The Monster Hunter series has been steadily growing more popular in the west and this is due in no small part to the massive success of Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate. The latest in Capcom's monster hunting franchise expanded and built upon many ideas that had been previously introduced and could certainly be argued as being the best in...
News An Enhanced Version of River City Ransom is Being Made for 3DS
Japan-only, for now
Some of you may be familiar with the River City Ransom, the classic NES brawler. It's from the same developer as Double Dragon and Renegade, and fits right into the same genre as those two, while taking some creative liberties of its own. While it may be true that it's far from a perfect game and it's perhaps somewhat simple by...
News The Legend of Zelda: Triforce Heroes Now Gives 'Hero Points' When You Play Unwanted Stages
Allows easier access to materials for outfits
The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes is a nuisance for completionists; with so many outfits to obtain there's plenty of repetition and luck of the draw required to fill your entire wardrobe. That's why we've been running around in the Princess Zelda dress all this time - yes, that's the reason... In...
Feature 505 Games On Bringing Terraria To Nintendo Consoles And Facing Off Against Minecraft
"There's a bit of rivalry between the Minecraft and Terraria communities"
With Terraria on the 3DS, Minecraft on Wii U and Terraria coming to Wii U soon, there's arguably never been a better time to be a Nintendo block-builder. Looking at the first direct capture from the Wii U game alongside some 3DS footage, Dean Scott - Producer on Terraria at...
Higher ticket sales, but lower takings
The world may be gripped by Star Wars fever at the moment but in Japan, the most-seen movie didn't feature lightsabers or X-Wings, but mischievous ghosts and magical timepieces. More tickets were sold for Yo-Kai Watch the Movie 2: King Enma and the 5 Stories, Nyan! than Star Wars: The Force Awakens, but due to...
News Project X Zone 2 EU Release Date Brought Forward, Demo Coming in January
A crazy new trailer arrives, too
Project X Zone 2 will be among a glut of promising releases in early 2016, and will also be relatively unique among the crowded batch of arrivals. The RPG will once again mash up Capcom, SEGA and Bandai Namco franchises, and this time will throw in a bit of Xenoblade Chronicles and Fire Emblem for good measure. If...
News Nintendo Achieves Modest Results in UK Christmas Charts
Call of Duty was number one, of course
Rather like the Christmas music chart number one being a coveted position, the same principle is applied to video games - in the UK, at least. Securing top spot in the final results prior to 25th December is an extra gong to celebrate, a string for a publisher's bow. Somewhat predictably that honour falls to...
News Monster Strike Ships Over A Million Copies In Just Four Days
Mobile smash finding favour on 3DS
Monster Strike - a mobile phone smash in Japan with daily revenues of over $4 million - is shaping up to be something special on 3DS, too. The game - which was co-created by former Capcom legend Yoshiki Okamoto - has shipped over a million copies in four days in Japan. Like fellow Japanese smartphone hit Puzzle...
News Here are the Top Three Wii U and 3DS Games, According to Miiverse
And the winner is...
It's getting to be that time of year where gaming publications all over the world are picking their favorite games of the year. While there still has yet to be any sort of universally recognised awards, the same handful of games generally tend to pop up on different lists and there's usually not too many surprises as to which...
Video Final Fantasy Explorers Multiplayer Trailer Shows That Teamwork Pays Off
It's coming West in January, don't forget
With the recent arrival of Cloud in Super Smash Bros., Square Enix and Nintendo seem to be bringing Final Fantasy back into the frame, even if the mainline entries continue to elude the latter's hardware. It's easy to forget with all of the current distractions, of course, that Final Fantasy Explorers is...
Talking Point Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and 3DS Set a Standard That'll Be Tough to Follow
What can Sakurai-san do next?
Though some DLC and amiibo are still to arrive, leaving the development team with some work to finish off, it's certainly the end of an era for this generation of Super Smash Bros. The very nature of the Final Video Presentation was always going to be a tad divisive - the Fighter Ballot, in particular, had been a red...
News Analysts Weigh in on Nintendo's Successes and Failures with amiibo
It's been a great start, but there's plenty of room for improvement
Nintendo's amiibo lineup has certainly been a case of ups and downs. The popular collectible figures have generated some handsome profit for the company and it seems that more figures are launching all the time. However, amiibo have been plagued by stock issues ever since they've...
News Wii U and 3DS Hardware Sales Lead the Way in Japan
Monster Hunter X, Splatoon and Super Mario Maker going strong
Sales are on the up in Japan as the Holiday season approaches, and the latest Media Create chart results bring very happy reading for Nintendo in terms of both software and hardware. Starting with software, Monster Hunter X (Cross) continues its dominance at number one, with its lifetime...
News Langrisser Re:Incarnation Tensei Dated For a 19th April Release in the West
Better watch out, Fire Emblem
You'd be forgiven if you've never heard of the game mentioned in the headline, as it's admittedly from a fairly niche franchise. Langrisser Re:Incarnation Tensei is the latest game in the Langrisser series, which evidently was Fire Emblem's biggest rival back in the day. Langrisser started on the Sega Mega Drive and had...
News Final Mii Fighter Costumes and Hats Detailed for Super Smash Bros.
Tails! Knuckles! Geno! More!
The final wave of Mii Fighter hats and costumes have been revealed in today's special Super Smash Bros. presentation. Firstly, in combination with the new fighter Cloud from the Final Fantasy series, a Chocobo hat will be released alongside the anticipated fighter. Also, a surprise costume from the beloved Super Mario...
News Ryu, Roy and Famicom Colour R.O.B. amiibo Will Be Released On 18th March
Cloud, Corrin and Bayonetta amiibo also confirmed
In the final Super Smash Bros. for Wii U & 3DS video presentation, series creator Masahiro Sakurai has revealed more amiibo will be arriving in store soon and also confirmed amiibo development for the three newly announced fighters. Ryu from Street Fighter, Roy from the Fire Emblem series, and a...
News Corrin Chooses to Fight in Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and 3DS
Protagonist from Fire Emblem Fates joins the roster in 2016
The Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and 3DS roster has gained another sword-wielding fighter to join the family of over 50 characters. Corrin, the main protagonist and playable character from Fire Emblem Fates, will join the fight with a handful of unique moves, weapons, and specials. In a...
New 3DS has a higher framerate, but no 3D
Terraria is on the 3DS eShop already, having arrived in the most recent update. It had been long anticipated, especially by those Nintendo fans seeking a version on the go - the Wii U version hasn't made it out yet. A member of the development team has been clarifying details, however, and the good news for...
News The New Steam Pokémon, Volcanion, is Revealed in Full and Will be Distributed to 3DS Titles
That's number 721
A recent CoroCoro magazine leak announced the Volcanion Pokémon, confirming that it would feature in the 2016 movie for the series. The Pokémon Company has now done an official reveal through a video and web page, giving us some details, footage and screens to gawk at. Volcanion is number 721, for those counting - thanks,...
Feature Time to Vote for Your Nintendo Life Game of the Year Awards 2015
Nintendo Life reader awards to be decided
As 2015 draws to an end it's that time once again - Game of the Year Awards. We're continuing with tradition (albeit with some improved polls) in having both Staff and Community awards; the latter are entirely in your hands. As in previous years you can vote through a series of polls. We've shaken it up a...
It deserved better
The UK chart results are out, with these being the penultimate listings issued before the final Christmas list is released next week. It continues the status quo, largely, with a disappointing but inevitable week two drop-off for one of the year's finest games. Xenoblade Chronicles X has unfortunately dropped out of the...
News Masahiro Sakurai Talks About Fire Emblem Characters in Smash Bros.
It seems to be that he's a big fan of Fire Emblem
Fire Emblem has enjoyed something of a revival in the last few years. Fire Emblem: Awakening was really the big turning point, and it's no exaggeration to say its largescale success literally saved the series. This was somewhat reflected most recently in Smash 4, where Fire Emblem graduated to having...
News Tri Force Heroes Developers Talk About the Engine it was Built on and a Cut Costume Idea
Evidently, there would've been a naked costume
The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes has been out for a couple months now and it was very much met with divided opinions. This was a bit of a surprise, as Zelda games usually do quite well critically, but probably had a lot to do with the different direction it took with multiplayer. All the same, it's...
Nintendo Life Weekly Final Smash Bros. Direct, Minecraft on Wii U and More
The end of an era approaches
It was a busy week in the world of Nintendo, with two announcements standing out above all others and a couple of corking eShop releases that were reviewed. As is now tradition we've decided to make life easy for you if you're trying to keep up, collating the best news of the week as well as all of the releases and...
Video Check Out the Opening Cinematic that Introduces Linkle
From humble beginnings
For the few of you that have been living under a rock, Linkle is a new playable character in the upcoming Hyrule Warriors Legends, notable for basically being a 'female Link'. Of course, Linkle is very much her own character; her backstory may be a little similar to Link's, but she still has many traits that set her apart...
News Ten Hours of Maintenance on the Way for the Nintendo Network
Could affect Sunday evening online gaming time in North America
Earlier this week a 'big news' tease caused some curiosity around a major batch of maintenance on various Nintendo Network service. The major announcement turned out to be Minecraft: Wii U Edition, so we're back to maintenance being a rather dull thing that can affect our online gaming;...
News Nintendo Remains Bullish Around the 3DS and Its Future Prospects
"Nintendo 3DS is here to stay"
Courtesy of long-term projects and some localisation timelines, the 3DS has a pretty decent selection of major retail releases in the first half of 2016. There are games like Fire Emblem Fates, Project X Zone 2, Bravely Second End Layer, Hyrule Warriors Legends and various others depending on your territory; heck,...
News Code Of Princess And Yumi's Odd Odyssey Studio Agatsuma Is No More
Dissolved as of today, liquidation happening next year
Japanese firm Agatsuma Entertainment has revealed that it is closing its doors. The publisher of Code of Princess and Yumi's Odd Odyssey, Agatsuma has been officially dissolved as of today. Liquidation will occur on March 31st, 2016. The firm was perhaps best known for assisting with...
Video Extended Hyrule Warriors Legends Trailer Shows Off New Content
Including customisable fairies and lots of combat
Hyrule Warriors Legends is one of a glut of 3DS titles due in the first half of 2016, a re-release of the Wii U title with new characters such as Tetra and Linkle, new scenarios in the story, extra features and an additional Adventure Mode map. It has plenty to offer, then, and Tecmo Koei has...
News The November NPD Results are in, Nintendo Exclusives Fail to Crack the Top Ten
Tough month for Nintendo
The NPD Group is an independent market research company that tracks sales across various industries and how they perform in North America. Naturally, the game industry is tracked by this group and each month's results are based off of new games sold at retailers. Be sure to note, NPD does not track digital or second hand...
Video Reggie Fils-Aime Busts Some Moves and Dances in Latest Yo-Kai Watch Commercial
Erm, his body is ready?
Yo-Kai Watch has been getting a notable marketing push from Nintendo of America, with the company going so far as to utilise its most recognisable figureheads - notably Reggie Fils-Aime and Bill Trinen - in 'very important meeting' videos. We've seen Bill stuff his face with donuts and both men be rather grumpy, but the third...
News Hyrule Warriors Legends Will Allow You to Find and Customise Your Own Fairies
The Great Sea brings Wind Waker flair to Adventure mode, too
Hyrule Warriors Legends is shaping up to be a fairly substantial expansion on the core content of the Wii U original, with the HD entry already having a lot to offer. Various new characters and fresh stages have emerged over recent months, and now a couple more details have emerged via...
News Bravely Second End Layer Is Coming To Europe In February
Deluxe Collector's Edition will be available
Nintendo has just confirmed the European release date for the 3DS RPG Bravely Second End Layer. The title will launch on February 26th 2016, and will come in standard and limited "Deluxe Collector's Edition" packages. The latter includes a figure, CD soundtrack and artbook. The original Bravely...
Monster Hunter X (Cross) is still dominant
The Media Create results for Japan are out, and this week has a few interesting talking points to consider in terms of both hardware and software. Starting with the latter, Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam makes its debut in second place with just under 50,000 sales; its launch numbers are actually a little...
News Eiji Aonuma Talks Linkle's Origins and Appearance in Hyrule Warriors Legends
Initially was planned to be Link's sister
As many of you probably saw earlier today, IGN did a brief interview with Eiji Aonuma regarding the upcoming release of Hyrule Warriors Legends. The topic of Linkle was brought up and Aonuma mentioned how there's a possibility that she'll show up in future main series Zelda games. Only time will tell, but it...
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